The “new Samsung SmartThings hub” is actually the Aeotec Smart Home Hub 2, a third-party hub built for Samsung’s SmartThings platform. It reached U.S. retailers on November 16, 2025, so it is not a new launch as of September 2026. Its major upgrade is support for Matter and Thread, plus newer hardware and an emphasis on local processing. But it reportedly drops Z-Wave support, making it a poor replacement for SmartThings homes built around Z-Wave locks, switches, thermostats, or sensors.
In short: the Hub 2 is worth considering for a new Matter- and Thread-focused SmartThings installation, but it is not a universal upgrade for every older SmartThings or Aeotec hub.
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What is the Aeotec Smart Home Hub 2?
The Aeotec Smart Home Hub 2 is Aeotec hardware that works with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem. Calling it simply “Samsung’s new hub” is misleading: Samsung provides the SmartThings platform and ecosystem integration, while Aeotec makes the hardware.
That distinction matters when you are comparing specifications, warranty coverage, support, and replacement options. Samsung’s current hub strategy is distributed across Aeotec hubs, SmartThings Station, compatible Samsung televisions, monitors, soundbars, refrigerators, and older SmartThings hardware with hub functionality. Samsung describes this approach as “hub everywhere.”
#1 Best Overall
- 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
The Hub 2 was announced before its U.S. retail release and was reported available at a November 2025 launch price of $120. That is a historical launch price, not a verified September 2026 street price. Launch coverage also reported that the Hub 2 is about half the size of its predecessor, uses a processor Samsung says is roughly 70% faster, and includes 512 MB of RAM—twice the previous model’s memory.
What changed from the previous Aeotec hub?
| Change | What is reported | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Approximately half the previous model’s size | Easier placement near a router, outlet, or other suitable location |
| Processor | About 70% faster, according to Samsung’s stated comparison | Potentially quicker app responses and automation processing; it does not prove a 70% faster real-world experience |
| Memory | 512 MB of RAM, described as twice the predecessor’s amount | More hardware headroom for a larger or newer installation |
| Newer protocols | Matter and Thread, alongside Zigbee | Better suited to many current cross-brand smart-home products |
| Major omission | Z-Wave was reportedly removed | Existing Z-Wave devices may be the deciding factor against upgrading |
The processor and size claims should be understood as manufacturer-reported specifications rather than independent performance measurements. Faster hardware can improve responsiveness, but it does not automatically make every SmartThings routine or cloud integration faster.
The deal-breaker: the Hub 2 reportedly drops Z-Wave
The most important buying question is not whether the Hub 2 is faster. It is whether your home uses Z-Wave.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The Hub 2 is reported to support Zigbee, Matter, and Thread, but not Z-Wave. That makes it a potentially useful forward-looking hub for new installations, while creating a serious migration problem for some older SmartThings users.
Check every device before buying, especially:
- Z-Wave smart locks
- Z-Wave switches and dimmers
- Z-Wave thermostats
- Z-Wave motion, door, and leak sensors
- Other devices paired directly to an older Z-Wave-capable SmartThings or Aeotec hub
A Z-Wave device is not interchangeable with a Zigbee device merely because both work with SmartThings. If Z-Wave hardware is central to your home, keeping a compatible older hub—or choosing another hub that retains Z-Wave—may be safer than migrating to the Hub 2.
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- Easy Setup: Power on Smart Hub Gen2 and just need few minutes to setup it with Third Reality App. No professional technical skills needed, if you have any issues, please feel free to contact us. Note: Only Support 2.4GHz WiFi.
- Improved Design: THIRDREALITY Smart Hub Gen 2 is a mini ZigBee gateway, which is smaller than a deck of card. With great improve design in the appearance, it’s adopting USB-A connector, no need for charging cable, you can power on it wherever has USB-A port.
- Reliable, Stable and Fast: Equipment With powerful storage and advanced smart chips, Hub Gen 2 is faster and more stable as opposed to Hub Gen1. Not only the maximum connection distance extends to 50m in the open space, but also the number of connected devices increases to 32.
- Remote Control: You can monitor the status of your smart home devices everywhere you are. No limited by distance, location, easy to control them remotely, so that you can save energy and keep your home safety.
- Groups & Timer: Along with Third Reality App, you can have a lot of advanced groups or schedule features for smart home, such as groups, Count down timers, N-way Switch etc. Easy to turn on/off all the ZigBee smart devices in a group with one click. With a countdown timer, you won’t worry about forgetting to turn off the lights.
Matter and Thread, explained without the marketing shorthand
The Hub 2’s strategic importance is its position in the transition toward Matter and Thread.
| Term | Plain-English meaning |
|---|---|
| Matter | A smart-home application standard intended to make supported devices work across participating ecosystems more consistently. |
| Thread | A low-power mesh networking technology used by many newer smart-home products, including some Matter devices. |
| Matter controller | The ecosystem device that commissions and manages Matter products. |
| Thread border router | A device that connects a Thread network to the wider home network. |
| Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth | Different connection technologies with different radios, device support, range, and cloud requirements. |
A Matter-over-Thread product needs a functioning Thread border router. A Matter-over-Wi-Fi product does not. The Matter logo also does not guarantee that every feature, device type, or automation behaves identically in SmartThings, Apple Home, Google Home, or another ecosystem.
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Support can vary by device model, firmware, country, network, and SmartThings implementation. Samsung advises consumers to look for “Works with Samsung SmartThings” and Matter compatibility information before purchasing.
Samsung says SmartThings supports Matter devices while continuing support for Zigbee, Z-Wave, and local-network devices across supported hubs. Its Matter announcement also says second- and third-generation SmartThings hubs and the Aeotec Smart Home Hub received Matter-controller support through software updates. That does not mean every older hub has the same Thread capabilities as the Hub 2.
What does local processing mean?
Launch coverage positions the Hub 2 as capable of handling more tasks locally, which can reduce delays caused by sending every command to a remote server. Local execution may help some routines remain responsive when the internet connection is unreliable.
Rank #3
- [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.
It does not mean SmartThings is a completely offline smart-home system. Remote access, account authentication, firmware updates, voice-assistant services, some device integrations, and some automations may still depend on an internet connection or cloud service. The available launch information does not provide a complete official list of Hub 2 routines and integrations that execute locally.
For critical functions—such as door locks, leak alerts, heating controls, lighting, or alarms—test the exact automation yourself during a temporary internet interruption. Also test power-loss behavior. Do not treat local processing as a replacement for professionally monitored fire, medical, or security equipment.
Who should buy the Hub 2?
| Your situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| You are starting a SmartThings system with Matter-over-Thread devices | Good candidate. The Hub 2 is designed around the newer protocol mix. |
| You use Samsung TVs, appliances, Galaxy devices, and SmartThings routines | Worth considering. The ecosystem integration may be more useful than a platform change. |
| You own Zigbee devices but no important Z-Wave devices | Potentially suitable. Inventory devices and verify their exact SmartThings support. |
| You want a dedicated hub rather than relying on a TV or monitor | Reasonable choice. A dedicated hub can be positioned and replaced independently. |
| You have many Z-Wave devices | Usually skip the Hub 2. The missing Z-Wave radio is a fundamental compatibility issue. |
| You already have a reliable Matter controller and Thread border router | Probably unnecessary. The Hub 2 may add little unless you specifically want SmartThings integration or newer dedicated hardware. |
| You require maximum offline control or an open-source platform | Look elsewhere. Local processing is not the same as complete offline autonomy. |
Hub 2 versus SmartThings Station
SmartThings Station is another Samsung ecosystem option. Samsung positions it as a SmartThings hub, Matter controller, Thread border router, and wireless charger. A Samsung page has surfaced a $60 price point, but that figure’s date, current availability, and stock should be checked before purchase.
The Hub 2 is the more obvious choice if you want a newer dedicated hub with more memory and a faster processor than the previous Aeotec model. Station may be attractive if you want a compact device that also charges a phone.
Do not assume Station and Hub 2 are interchangeable. Before choosing Station, verify the protocols your devices require, the number and types of devices you plan to connect, its placement, and whether you need a dedicated Ethernet-connected hub. Samsung’s product and regional support pages warn that exact features vary by model, country, network, and product release.
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- Versatile Monitoring: All-in-one open/close, vibration, orientation, angle (tilt), and temperature sensor for multipurpose functionality
- 24/7 Monitoring: Receive instant phone alerts if a door, window, cabinet or drawer opens unexpectedly
- Stay Safe: Get a notification if you forgot to close your doors or windows to ensure your home stays safe
- Requirements: Best with SmartThings App and Aeotec Smart Home Hub / Samsung SmartThings Hub or compatible device with SmartThings Hub functionality (connected devices sold separately). Works with other compatible Zigbee hubs - check with your manufacturer.
- Compatibility: Requires Zigbee hub. Works with Google, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, and other devices utilizing Zigbee communication protocols
Could you already have a SmartThings hub?
Some Samsung TVs, monitors, soundbars, refrigerators, SmartThings Stations, and older SmartThings hubs can provide hub functionality. Eligibility depends on the exact model and region; not every Samsung product includes a SmartThings hub.
This can avoid buying another box, but a built-in hub is not always the best practical choice. A television or appliance may be poorly placed for radio coverage, and replacing that product can also affect the smart-home controller. A dedicated hub is easier to locate independently and replace without changing a major appliance.
Check Samsung’s hub-everywhere information and the current U.S. compatibility details for your exact model before relying on built-in functionality.
Migration checklist for existing SmartThings users
- Inventory protocols. Record whether each device uses Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter-over-Thread, Matter-over-Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a cloud integration.
- Stop if you depend on Z-Wave. Treat this as a hard compatibility checkpoint, not a minor edge case.
- Record your system. Photograph or export device names, rooms, routines, conditions, and automation actions before changing hubs.
- Confirm the U.S. model. Radio support, firmware, availability, and features can vary by region.
- Update SmartThings. Install or update the current app, then connect the Hub 2 according to its included instructions. App labels can change, so do not rely on an old menu path.
- Update hub firmware. Do this before moving devices.
- Add Matter devices carefully. Use the device’s Matter QR code or setup code. If it is already commissioned elsewhere, follow the manufacturer’s multi-admin or removal instructions.
- Confirm Thread. For a Matter-over-Thread product, verify that the Hub 2 is operating as the Thread border router and that the product is not actually a Wi-Fi- or Bluetooth-only model.
- Recreate and test routines one at a time. Some migrations may require re-pairing, and routines can lose references to old device IDs or capabilities.
- Keep the old hub until testing is complete. Do not discard it until every important device and routine works as expected.
Thread problems can result from border-router placement, Wi-Fi configuration, device firmware, or multiple Thread networks—not necessarily from a defective hub. SmartThings also supports multi-hub arrangements, and Samsung says additional Stations can help Matter, Thread, and Zigbee devices connect to an optimal or nearby hub. That may improve range and reliability, but it should not be interpreted as guaranteed whole-home failover for every protocol or routine.
Bottom line: is the Hub 2 a meaningful upgrade?
Yes, but only for the right protocol mix. The Aeotec Smart Home Hub 2 is a meaningful SmartThings hardware update because it brings Matter and Thread support into a smaller, newer hub with more memory and a faster reported processor. It is a sensible foundation for a new Samsung-centered smart home and for existing Zigbee users moving toward newer Matter devices.
It is not a universal replacement for older SmartThings or Aeotec hubs. If your home relies on Z-Wave, the reported loss of Z-Wave support outweighs the newer protocols. Check your devices first, compare the Hub 2 with SmartThings Station and any hub already built into your Samsung equipment, and verify current U.S. pricing and compatibility before buying.
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