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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Matter 1.3, released on May 8, 2024, expanded the smart-home standard beyond lights, plugs and sensors. It added formal device types for microwave ovens, ovens, cooktops, extractor hoods, laundry dryers and electric-vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), alongside new energy-reporting and water-management capabilities.
That does not mean every oven, dryer or EV charger suddenly works with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa or SmartThings. Matter 1.3 defines the common language; manufacturers still have to implement and certify it, and controller platforms must expose the relevant features.
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What Matter 1.3 added
Matter 1.3 was an important expansion of the Connectivity Standards Alliance’s interoperability standard. Matter 1.2 had already introduced categories such as refrigerators, dishwashers and laundry washers. Version 1.3 broadened appliance coverage and established a foundation for managing some of the highest-energy loads in a home.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →| Category | Examples | What Matter may standardize |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen appliances | Microwaves, ovens and cooktops | Status, operating modes and selected controls, where implemented |
| Ventilation | Extractor or range hoods | Fan and light status or control, where supported |
| Laundry | Clothes dryers | Status and selected cycle-related functions |
| Electric-vehicle charging | EVSE | Charging state, limits, faults and session information |
| Water management | Leak and freeze detectors, rain sensors and water valves | Detection, status and valve control |
| Energy management | Energy-aware appliances and loads | Power, voltage, current and energy reporting |
See the Matter 1.3 Device Library Specification for the formal device definitions.
#1 Best Overall
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices （** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
What a Matter 1.3 appliance can actually do
Matter provides standardized functions, not a complete copy of a manufacturer’s app. The controls available depend on the appliance’s hardware, firmware, safety design and implementation.
A compatible microwave might expose its cooking time, power level and operating mode. It may also report events such as cycle completion or food readiness. An over-the-range microwave could expose associated hood-fan and light controls. A dryer might provide operating status and cycle information, while an oven or cooktop could report supported modes and current state.
Those examples describe what the standard can enable—not what every product must provide. Safety-sensitive appliances may show status but prevent remote starting. A controller may also expose fewer controls than the manufacturer’s own app.
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Matter 1.3 introduced the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) device type. EVSE is the charger or charging equipment that connects an electric vehicle to mains electricity; it is not the vehicle itself.
The associated Energy EVSE cluster covers concepts including charging and supply state, faults, power limits, session management and charging-related commands. In principle, that could allow a compatible smart-home or energy-management system to:
- See whether charging is idle, active or complete.
- Monitor charger power and session information.
- Coordinate charging with other large household loads.
- Limit or delay charging during a peak-demand period.
- Include the charger in broader household energy automations.
However, EVSE support does not automatically provide utility-rate optimization, vehicle-to-grid operation, vehicle-to-home backup, universal demand response or access to every vehicle-specific setting. Those capabilities depend on the charger, vehicle, electrical installation, utility program and controller.
Rank #2
- Multi-Protocol Smart Hub with Matter Bridge – The M100 is a versatile smart hub compatible with Thread devices and Aqara Zigbee (** Not third-party Zigbee devices), supporting up to 20 Aqara Zigbee devices and 20 Thread devices. As a Matter Bridge, it connects Aqara Zigbee products to other smart home ecosystems, compatible with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, etc. Note: Use a 5V⎓0.5A power adapter (not included) and keep the product continuously powered during use.
- Advanced Matter Bridging for Seamless Smart Home Integration – The M100 enables Aqara’s unique features, such as facial recognition and complex automation, to work across Home Assistant and other Matter ecosystems. Expand your smart home with Aqara or third-party Matter devices (requires a Matter-enabled hub). Currently supports lights, thermostats, plugs, switches, buttons, and various sensors (motion, light, door/window, temperature/humidity), with more devices to be added in the future.
- Local Automation for Reliable Performance – Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond-level response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notification, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
- Flexible Power & Small Size – Features a universal USB-A port for power and data, allowing connection to power banks, wall outlets, PCs, or routers for a simple and quick setup. The Hub M100's shaft can be adjusted within a 210-degree range, making its placement extremely flexible.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 for Faster & Security—This product supports a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 wireless network connection, which enables more efficient connections with advanced WPA3 security. Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother performance even in high-traffic environments, allowing multiple devices to connect without compromising speed or reliability. Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M100 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
Vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid use also require compatible bidirectional hardware, vehicle support, regional approvals and appropriate utility arrangements. They should not be inferred merely from a product’s Matter or EVSE label.
Why the energy features matter
The most consequential part of Matter 1.3 may be its energy-management foundation. Eligible devices can report standardized information such as:
- Instantaneous power.
- Voltage and current.
- Energy consumed over time.
- Energy generated, where relevant.
- Forecast or estimated energy behavior in supported implementations.
Matter also provides a Device Energy Management model for flexible loads. A system could, for example, delay a dryer cycle, adjust an appliance’s power use or respond to a grid event.
That distinction is important:
- Monitoring shows what a device is using.
- Reporting makes that information available to another system.
- Forecasting estimates future demand or generation.
- Load shifting changes when a flexible device operates.
- Grid response adjusts operation in response to an external signal.
Matter standardizes communication between devices and controllers. It does not guarantee lower bills or reduced consumption. Savings depend on accurate measurements, suitable automation rules, electricity tariffs, utility programs and whether the household actually permits loads to be shifted. Device-reported data should not automatically be treated as a substitute for a revenue-grade utility meter.
Water-management devices and other additions
Matter 1.3 also added standardized support for leak detectors, freeze detectors, rain sensors and controllable water valves. That creates a common model for detecting conditions and, where implemented, controlling water flow.
As with appliances, the device category does not guarantee identical behavior across platforms. One controller may display a leak alert but not expose every valve command. Installation, plumbing design and local safety requirements remain separate considerations.
Rank #3
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The Aqara Hub M200 is a versatile smart hub that supports multiple advanced features, acting as a Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and Matter Bridge. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. With advanced Matter bridging functionality, it syncs Aqara-exclusive features with ecosystems like Home Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home for seamless integration. Supports up to 40 Aqara Zigbee devices and 40 Thread devices.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Wired & Wireless Connectivity with PoE Support] Enjoy flexible setup with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) using advanced WPA3 security, and Power over Ethernet (PoE), making the M200 a versatile PoE Ethernet Smart Home Hub. The USB-C port supports mini-UPS or power bank connections for uninterrupted operation, ensuring your energy-saving and security automations stay online. (*2A USB power adapter is not included. )
- [Home Automation and Alarm System] Works with all Aqara devices to create a comprehensive, smart home automation system. The Aqara Hub M200 is equipped with a built-in speaker that can be used in a variety of ways: security alerts, doorbell, alarm clock, and custom audio messages. (** 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐙𝐢𝐠𝐛𝐞𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬)
- [Local Automation for Reliable Performance] Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notifications, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
The release also included improvements for Matter-enabled televisions, media players, casting, scenes and other core behavior. These were useful refinements, but the major consumer-facing story was the expansion into appliances, EVSE and energy management.
“Matter 1.3 support” has five different meanings
When evaluating a product, separate these layers:
- Specification support: Matter defines the device type, clusters and behaviors.
- Manufacturer implementation: The maker builds those functions into a particular product and firmware.
- Certification: The implementation completes the relevant certification process.
- Controller support: Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings or another controller recognizes the device type.
- Feature exposure: The controller’s app actually provides the controls and energy data you want.
A product can therefore be Matter-certified while supporting only a subset of the available functions. It may also require the manufacturer’s app for setup, firmware updates, diagnostics, advanced charging schedules or cloud-based remote access.
Matter is designed to support local smart-home operation, but local compatibility does not guarantee that every product is entirely cloud-free.
Can existing appliances receive Matter 1.3 through an update?
Usually, not automatically. A specification release does not add new hardware to an appliance. An existing product may need a suitable communications module, enough firmware and memory capacity, a manufacturer willing to implement the feature, and new certification or recertification.
The controller ecosystem must also support the device type. A manufacturer may announce future Matter support without having shipped a certified update, so “upgradeable” and “currently supported” are not interchangeable.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Are Matter 1.3 appliances and EV chargers widely available?
Availability has been more limited than the 2024 announcement might suggest. A Matter specification creates an opportunity for manufacturers; it does not guarantee a broad retail ecosystem.
Rank #4
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
As of August 1, 2026, a community-maintained Matter Survey reported no EVSE implementations in its database. That is not proof that no certified Matter EVSE exists anywhere, but it is a useful indicator that Matter-native EV-charger adoption remains limited or difficult for consumers to identify.
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For any product, verify the exact model in the CSA certified-products directory. Retailer descriptions and “future Matter” claims are not substitutes for a certification record.
Matter 1.3 compared with later releases
Matter 1.3 is no longer the current Matter release. The Matter Handbook lists Matter 1.5.1, published in March 2026, as the latest version.
- Matter 1.3 — May 2024: New kitchen appliances, dryers, EVSE, water-management devices and energy-reporting foundations.
- Matter 1.4 — November 2024: Expanded energy management, solar, batteries, heat pumps, Multi-Admin and certified home routers or access points.
- Matter 1.4.1 — May 2025: Setup and onboarding improvements.
- Matter 1.4.2 — August 2025: Security and commissioning-related corrections and enhancements.
- Matter 1.5 — November 2025: Cameras, closures, soil sensors, energy tariffs and other capabilities.
- Matter 1.5.1 — March 2026: The latest release listed by the Matter Handbook, including further camera and media-related additions.
The practical lesson is that buyers in 2026 should not necessarily search for a product labeled “Matter 1.3.” Instead, check the current certification record and the specific device type and features supported by the product and preferred controller. See the Matter Handbook specification history for version context.
What to check before buying
- Search the exact model number in the CSA certified-products directory.
- Confirm the device type. “Matter-compatible” alone is too vague; look for EVSE, dryer, oven or the relevant category.
- Check the supported features. Certification does not mean every possible command or energy attribute is implemented.
- Verify controller support. Confirm that your chosen Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung or other platform supports the device and the functions you need.
- Check transport and infrastructure. Confirm whether the product uses Wi-Fi, Thread or Ethernet and whether a hub or Thread Border Router is required.
- Read the firmware policy. Determine whether Matter support is active at purchase or promised for a later update.
- Check local versus cloud operation. Advanced features, remote access or firmware updates may still require an account.
- Review safety and installation limits. Remote start may be restricted, and EV chargers or hardwired appliances require proper circuit sizing and professional installation.
- Check energy-data visibility. A device may measure energy inside its own app without making that data available to your preferred controller.
Smart plugs and energy monitors may be a practical way to measure some ordinary plug-in loads, but they are not a universal workaround. Do not use a plug for an oven, dryer, EV charger or other fixed high-load equipment unless the product is specifically rated and approved for that application.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe practical verdict
Matter 1.3 made smart-home standards considerably more relevant to large appliances, EV charging and household energy management. Its lasting importance is foundational: it defined common device models and energy concepts that later Matter releases could build upon.
But the specification is only one part of the buying decision. A useful Matter 1.3 product requires a real manufacturer implementation, certification, controller support and meaningful feature exposure. In 2026, treat Matter 1.3 as the release that established these capabilities—not as proof that compatible ovens, dryers or EV chargers are automatically common or interchangeable.
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