New user needs advice

[JDRoberts]

@h0ckeysk8er

@Kylemac25

And back to advice on me buying new devices. So matter over wifi tends to be used for devices that run off main power and thread tends to be used for devices that run on a battery right? Is there any benefit of one over the other besides thread using less power so it’s better suited for batteries or should I stick to matter over wifi for plug in devices and matter over thread for battery devices?

The manufacturer’s decide which network protocol to implement for their devices. For example, the Eve Energy Matter Smartplug is a mains powered device that uses Matter over Thread. I wouldn’t be picking a device based on Thread vs Wi-Fi. I’d select a device that meets my usage needs and has good build and reliability.

This.

The only times you really need to take protocol into account are:

1. calculating probable battery life

2. making sure you have enough repeaters to support the battery powered devices you will get. For example, if all your mains power devices are using Wi-Fi, and you want to add some battery powered zigbee devices, you’re going to need to get a few mains powered Zigbee devices to strengthen the mesh.

3. probable range to the next repeating device. Usually only comes up as an issue when you have outbuildings.

Have you looked at the wireless range and repeaters FAQ yet? Start with post 11 in that thread, read it, then go up to the top, and read the whole thing. it applies to zigbee, zwave, and thread. This link will take you directly to Post 11.

A Guide to Wireless Range & Repeaters - #11 by JDRoberts