Best hub for power users
Aqara Hub M3
By the Plugged-In Home editors · Updated Sep 30, 2026
Connects Zigbee, Thread and Matter devices to Apple Home, Alexa, Google or Home Assistant.
Usually under $200
8.3/10How we score
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Our take
The M3 is for people with a growing collection of sensors who want everything local and reliable. It bridges cheap Zigbee sensors into Matter so they show up in any app you choose.
Our take
The M3 is for people with a growing collection of sensors who want everything local and reliable. It bridges cheap Zigbee sensors into Matter so they show up in any app you choose.
What we like
- Zigbee, Thread and Matter in one hub
- Local automations keep running without internet
- Ethernet with PoE
Watch out for
- Some Matter devices take several pairing tries
- No power adapter in the box
- Pricey if you just need basics
Skip it if you’re just starting out. A smart speaker with Thread and Matter covers most beginners.
Specifications
- Made by
- Aqara
- Matter roles
- Controller, bridge, Thread border router
- Radios
- Zigbee, Thread, Bluetooth 5.1, dual-band Wi-Fi
- Wired
- Ethernet with PoE
- Capacity
- Up to 127 Zigbee devices
- Extras
- IR blaster, speaker, local automations
Aqara Hub M3
8.3/10Usually under $200
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