Thread
The mesh radio Matter runs over for battery devices. What it is, why it needs a border router, and which ones you already own.
New to Thread?
The plain-English version first, then the guides that build on it.
Head to head
Comparison
Thread vs Wi-Fi: which to buy for each device
Thread and Wi-Fi both carry Matter. For anything plugged into the wall the choice barely matters. For anything on batteries, it is years versus months.
ComparisonZigbee vs Thread: which one should you buy?
Zigbee and Thread use the same radio. The real difference is that a Thread device joins Apple Home, Google Home or Alexa directly, while a Zigbee device gets there through a bridge.
The library
Everything Thread
Every Thread guide, explainer and comparison in one list.
Explainer Comparison Comparison Explainer Buying guide Explainer
What is a Thread border router (and do you need one)?
A Thread border router joins your Thread devices to your home network. Nothing on Thread works without one, and there's a fair chance you already own one.
Thread vs Wi-Fi: which to buy for each device
Thread and Wi-Fi both carry Matter. For anything plugged into the wall the choice barely matters. For anything on batteries, it is years versus months.
Zigbee vs Thread: which one should you buy?
Zigbee and Thread use the same radio. The real difference is that a Thread device joins Apple Home, Google Home or Alexa directly, while a Zigbee device gets there through a bridge.
Does Google Home have Zigbee?
No Google or Nest device has ever spoken Zigbee, though several carry the radio chip Zigbee and Thread share. Here is where that confusion starts, and what to do if you already own Zigbee gear.
Which Zigbee dongle for Home Assistant?
Home Assistant needs a USB radio for Zigbee, Thread or Z-Wave. Which adapter to buy, why one dongle cannot run two protocols, and the USB 3.0 problem that quietly ruins your range.
What is Thread (and Matter over Thread)?
Thread is a low-power wireless mesh for smart home devices. It is the network Matter runs on, and it needs a border router, which is built into many hubs you may already own.