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Best Smart Home Hubs for 2025

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best hub for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: May 20th, 2024

Last Updated: January 21st, 2025

🏠Smart homes are getting more and more complex, which means having a dependable smart home hub is key to keeping everything running smoothly. Whether you're all about Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple, the right hub can simplify your home automation and make everything work better together.

We've done a deep dive into the options out there and found the best smart home hubs for 2024. Here's what we've picked, catering to all sorts of needs and budgets.

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Overall Best: Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

Amazon Echo (4th Gen) | With premium sound, smart home hub, and Alexa | Charcoal Charcoal Echo

The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) shines as the best overall smart home hub for 2024. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee, enabling seamless integration with a wide range of smart devices. Priced under $100, it offers affordability without compromising on features. Key highlights include its ability to monitor alarm signals, support various Alexa routines, and process tasks through Alexa's AI. The multiple built-in radios ensure versatile connectivity, making it a well-rounded option for most households.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$64.99 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Samsung SmartThings Station Hub

SAMSUNG SmartThings Station, with Power Adapter, 15W Super Fast Wireless Charger, Smart Home Hub, 2023, EP-P9500TWEGUS, White

6.79

Overall Score: 6.79/10

Professional:7/10

Consumer:6.6/10

📖 Read TLDR Review to learn more →

For those seeking a versatile and powerful hub, the Samsung SmartThings Station Hub is our runner-up. It supports Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Matter, offering comprehensive compatibility with a vast array of devices. This hub is particularly appealing to Samsung users, seamlessly integrating with Samsung TVs, appliances, and more. Its open platform ensures that it's highly compatible with various smart home ecosystems, making it an ideal choice for users looking for an all-encompassing solution.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) | With bigger vibrant sound, helpful routines and Alexa | Charcoal

If you're on a budget, the Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) is a fantastic pick. Despite its lower price point, this hub supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing it to manage essential smart home functions effectively. Though it lacks Zigbee support, it still integrates well with numerous smart devices, providing excellent value for money. At a fraction of the cost of more advanced hubs, it remains a smart choice for those looking to enter the smart home market without breaking the bank.

Lowest at Amazon

$49.99 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$29.99 at Lowe's

More Answers

Still curious about the Echo Dot (5th Gen)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

What WiFi requirements does the Echo Dot need to work properly?

# What Kind of WiFi Does the Echo Dot Need? Good news: your Echo Dot isn't picky about WiFi. If you can stream Netflix without constant buffering, you're probably all set for the [Echo Dot](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B8V1LZ3) too. ## The Basic Requirements **Your WiFi needs to support:** - Either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (most routers do both) - Basic internet speeds (even 1-2 Mbps works for voice commands) - Standard security (WPA2 is what most people have) **Translation:** Unless you're running some ancient router from 2005, you're probably fine. ## Speed Reality Check **For basic Alexa stuff** (asking questions, setting timers, controlling smart lights): Your WiFi just needs to be "working." Seriously, even slow connections handle this fine. **For music streaming:** You'll want decent speeds—maybe 5 Mbps or better. If multiple people are streaming video while you're playing music on the Echo Dot, slower connections might struggle. ## Setup Tips **During setup:** The Echo Dot will ask for your WiFi password through the Alexa app. Make sure you have that handy (it's usually on a sticker on your router if you've never changed it). **Placement matters:** Don't stick your Echo Dot in the basement while your router is upstairs. Keep them reasonably close for the best connection. **Router age check:** If your [router is more than 5-6 years old](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=wifi+router) and you're having connection issues, that might be your problem—not the Echo Dot.

Can I connect the Echo Dot to my TV without using Bluetooth?

# Sorry, No Direct TV Connection (But Here's What Works) Nope, you can't just plug the Echo Dot 5th generation into your TV with a cable anymore. Amazon ditched the headphone jack, so Bluetooth is your only option for getting audio from your TV to the Echo Dot. ## The Bluetooth Route (Most TVs) **Good news:** Most TVs made in the last few years have Bluetooth built in. Here's how to connect: 1. Grab your TV remote and head to the audio/sound settings 2. Look for "Bluetooth" or "Audio Output" options 3. Say "Alexa, pair Bluetooth" to your [Echo Dot](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B8V1LZ3) 4. Select your Echo Dot from the TV's device list **Pro tip:** If you can't find Bluetooth settings, try searching your TV's manual for "Bluetooth pairing" or "wireless audio." ## What If My TV Doesn't Have Bluetooth? **Don't panic\!** You've got a few options: - Grab a [cheap Bluetooth transmitter](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bluetooth+transmitter+tv) that plugs into your TV's headphone or RCA jacks - Consider upgrading to a smart TV (they're pretty affordable now) - Stick with the [older Echo Dot 4th gen](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XJ8C8F5) that has the aux port ## The Reality Check **Will there be a slight audio delay?** Probably a tiny bit with Bluetooth. Most people don't notice, but if you're super sensitive to lip-sync issues, you might want to look into other solutions. **Is it worth the hassle?** Depends on what you want to do. If you're just looking for better TV sound occasionally, it works fine. If this is a daily thing, maybe invest in a [proper TV soundbar](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tv+soundbar) instead.

Does the Echo Dot 5th generation have a headphone jack or aux port?

# Bad News: No Headphone Jack on the Echo Dot 5th Gen If you're looking for a headphone jack on Amazon's latest Echo Dot, I've got some disappointing news. They completely removed the 3.5mm port that used to be on the back of older models. ## What Amazon Took Away Remember how you could plug your Echo Dot directly into those older speakers in your garage? Or connect it to that nice stereo system with a simple aux cable? Yeah, that's gone now. The 5th generation is Bluetooth-only for any external audio connections. ## Why This Actually Matters **For Your Old Gear:** If you've got speakers from before the Bluetooth era, you're out of luck unless you buy a separate Bluetooth adapter. That's extra cost and complexity for something that used to "just work." **For Audio Quality:** Wired connections generally sound better than Bluetooth, especially with older or budget Bluetooth implementations. You might notice the difference if you're picky about audio quality. **For Reliability:** Ever had Bluetooth randomly disconnect? With the 5th gen, that's your only option now. No backup wired connection when Bluetooth acts up. ## What You Can Do About It **If you need wired connectivity:** - Stick with the [4th generation Echo Dot](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XJ8C8F5) (still available and cheaper) - Buy a Bluetooth transmitter for your old speakers - Consider other smart speakers that kept their aux ports **If Bluetooth works fine for you:** The [5th gen](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B8V1LZ3) is perfectly capable, but just know you're locked into wireless-only connections.

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Best for Apple Users: Apple HomePod Mini

The Apple HomePod Mini is the perfect choice for users entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. Supporting Thread for future-proof compatibility, it excels in integration with other Apple devices. Although less expensive than the larger HomePod, it delivers brilliant audio quality and outstanding smart home functionalities. Users can enjoy seamless coordination with Siri and Apple HomeKit, making it the best hub for Apple users.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best for Google Users: Google Nest Hub Max

Google Nest Hub Max 10" Smart Display with Google Assistant - Chalk

7.7

Overall Score: 7.7/10

Professional:8.20/10

Consumer:7.19/10

📖 Read TLDR Review to learn more →

For Google enthusiasts, the Google Nest Hub Max stands out as the best option. Featuring a 10-inch display, this hub is ideal for managing smart devices, streaming content, and making video calls. The built-in Google Assistant offers robust voice control, while the integrated Nest Cam adds a layer of security. This combination of features makes the Nest Hub Max a comprehensive and versatile smart home hub.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$224.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Google Nest Hub Max? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are some common issues with the Google Nest Hub Max?

The Google Nest Hub Max is a popular smart display, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, you'll need a [Google Duo](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BDuo%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) account to make video calls. If you're already using another service like [Skype](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSkype%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Zoom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DZoom%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), this could be inconvenient since they aren't supported directly by the device. On the topic of the camera, it has its pros and cons. It's great for video calls and home monitoring, but some folks worry about privacy. The good news is that there's a physical switch to turn off the camera and microphone if you ever feel uneasy. Another point to consider is app and streaming service support. While it works seamlessly with [YouTube](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DYouTube%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Google Photos](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BPhotos%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), integrating services like [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DNetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) sometimes isn't as smooth. Lastly, the sound quality is fine for everyday use but might not wow audiophiles. If you're expecting top-tier sound, you might be a bit disappointed compared to standalone speakers. So, while the Google Nest Hub Max comes with a lot of handy features, including hands-free video calls, control via the [Google Home](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BHome%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) app, and integration with Google's ecosystem, it's good to be aware of these common concerns.

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Can the Google Nest Hub Max be used as a security camera?

Yeah, you can use the Google Nest Hub Max as a security camera, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The manufacturer says it has a 6.5 MP camera, which means you get pretty clear pictures during the day or wherever there's good lighting. So, it's great for keeping an eye on things in well-lit areas. But, according to our research, it doesn't have night vision. This means it can't really capture clear images in the dark because it doesn't have the infra-red tech for that. If you mainly need it for daytime security, it should do the job fine. You can stream live video and get alerted when it detects motion, which is super handy for checking up on things when the sun's out. But, if you're after 24/7 monitoring, especially in darker spots at night, this device might not cut it. For that, you might want to look into other cameras that have night vision. There are plenty out there that are built for low-light conditions. So, in a nutshell, the Google Nest Hub Max works well for daytime surveillance, but keep its night vision limitations in mind if you're after round-the-clock security.

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What is the sound quality like on the Google Nest Hub Max?

The Google Nest Hub Max has pretty solid sound quality for everyday use. From what we've gathered, it has stereo speakers with a 30W subwoofer and two 10W tweeters. This setup gives you clear highs and decent bass, which works well for listening to music, watching videos, and making video calls. While it might not rival high-end speakers, it excels for a smart display. People have found the audio to be clear and strong, especially for voice assistant tasks and casual listening. So, if you're after a smart display with good sound, the Google Nest Hub Max should do the trick.

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Best for Power Users: Hubitat Elevation

Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub Smart Home Hub (Model C-8) Smart Home Hub Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter

6.9

Overall Score: 6.9/10

Consumer:6.9/10

📖 Read TLDR Review to learn more →

Smart home aficionados seeking advanced automation and control will find the Hubitat Elevation to be the ultimate choice. It supports both Zigbee and Z-Wave, enabling intricate smart home setups and advanced routines. All processing is handled locally within the hub, which enhances speed, reliability, and privacy. Note that Hubitat has a steeper learning curve than some other hubs, but for power users looking to push the boundaries of their smart home capabilities, it's well worth the effort.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$149.95 at Amazon

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