ᐅ New Smart Home System Based on Matter

Hello,

I came across a smart home system based on Matter.

It is supposed to become THE open smart home standard.

There are even claims that it will become the wireless alternative to KNX.

What do you think about it?

If wiring is possible, for example in new construction, is it still best to rely on KNX?

But if wiring is not possible, for example when retrofitting, would you recommend waiting for Matter and going with Matter?

What do you think about the new wireless smart home standard?

What distinguishes "Matter"? What makes it different or better than other wireless standards?

This is the new name for Connected Home over IP, so it’s actually nothing new. Basically, the major players are already behind it, but just because it is called a standard doesn’t mean it truly functions as one in practice. Time will tell, but with that market power, it definitely has potential.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

If wiring is possible, for example in new construction, is it still best to rely on KNX?

Definitely. But not exclusively, since you can of course also combine systems. Quite a few KNX installations are, for example, controlled via HomeKit. I would always do the basics—lighting, shading, heating, security, etc.—with wired connections and without depending on any cloud services, an internet connection, or uninterrupted wireless signals.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

This is supposed to be THE open smart home standard.

It already exists. Matter is basically Zigbee, hopefully finally universally compatible, although I do see issues again with country-specific frequency allocations.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

It’s even said that it will become the wireless alternative to KNX.

A lot of things have been said already, and many other wireless protocols were supposed to be that as well.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

What do you think about it?

Another standard. It might be better this time. But it also means that some product lines currently being sold are doomed to become electronic waste. Because manufacturers will switch over if it looks promising, and it makes no sense to bet on a losing technology.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

If wiring is possible, for example in new builds, you’d probably still rely on KNX, right?

Certainly. As long as you need wiring for power transmission, it’s logical to run a cable for signal transmission as well. Very few sockets, lights, and devices actually require wireless because they are usually permanently installed in a house. And yes, a combination is key. KNX also benefits from drawing on all available options.

Pwnage619 schrieb:

But if wiring is not possible, for example when retrofitting, would you say to wait for Matter and then use Matter?

No, unless you plan to build or buy in 5–10 years. The first few years will, as always, be dedicated to testing and fixing problems—early adopters will be unhappy and all the usual challenges will come with it.