The smart home world has many different protocols. The right choice depends on the structure of the home, the budget and plans for future expansion.
KNX
A wired, brand-independent international standard. It is ideal for villas and new builds; the cabling is laid during construction. Devices from thousands of manufacturers work together, and parts remain available 20-30 years later.
Matter and Thread
A newer standard that aims to bring devices from different makers together in a common language. It works locally and is simple to set up. It suits wireless upgrades in existing flats.
Zigbee
A low-power, mesh wireless protocol. It is reliable and economical for sensors, plugs and lights, and works with other systems through a Matter bridge.
Wi-Fi devices
Cheap and easy, but many Wi-Fi devices strain the network and most depend on the cloud. We recommend only Wi-Fi devices with local API support.
Which in which case?
- New-build villa: KNX plus a Matter bridge where needed
- Existing flat: a Matter/Zigbee wireless kit
- Office and hotel: KNX or BACnet-based building automation
- Tenant: a portable wireless kit
