Series: Matter from A to Z · Part 8 of 8
Buying Matter Devices: How to Check Certification
Buy Matter devices with confidence: check certification, Matter version and radio technology, and find matching devices in the matter.tips directory.
By Tobias ·· 6 min read
Buying Matter devices sounds simple, but on the shelf or in an online shop you will find many products with similar promises. Not every device that mentions “Matter” is actually certified, and not every claim on the packaging helps you decide. Here you will learn what to look for, how to check certification, and how to search the device directory on matter.tips in a targeted way.
If you want the basics of the standard, read What is Matter?. This article focuses on choosing devices when you buy.
Why you should check certification
A Matter device is meant to work together with other Matter systems. That only works if the device implements the standard correctly, and a certification process exists to confirm this. A certified device is listed in the public database of the CSA, the Distributed Compliance Ledger (DCL). There you can look up manufacturers, product IDs and certificate data.
The “Works with Matter” wording or the Matter logo on the packaging is a good first hint. Do not rely on it alone, though. Check the details yourself, especially for cheap offers from manufacturers you do not know.
The details that matter
When comparing two products, these points help the most:
| Detail | What it tells you |
|---|---|
| Certificate ID | A unique identifier for the certification that you can look up in the DCL |
| Matter version | Shows which version of the standard the device implements |
| Radio technology | Whether the device connects via Thread, Wi-Fi or Ethernet |
| Device type | What job the device does, such as a lamp, plug or sensor |
| Manufacturer and product ID | Identifies the exact model clearly |
Write down the certificate ID before you order. It is the most reliable way to identify a specific model, because product names are often similar or shortened by retailers. This comparison is especially worth doing for offers from third-party sellers.
Radio technology is particularly important when you buy. A Thread device needs a border router in your home, while a Wi-Fi device does not. I explain which technology suits your setup in the article Thread, Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Matter version: what you should know
The Matter version is an indication of how up to date the standard is in the device. Newer versions often bring additional features, but a higher number does not automatically mean better quality. What matters more is that the device works cleanly in your control system.
So make sure your controller supports the version your device uses. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s information or the documentation of your system.
Using the device directory on matter.tips
In the device directory you will find certified Matter devices with the most important details. You can search for terms such as a product name or a manufacturer, and narrow the list by device type and radio technology.
A sensible workflow looks like this:
- Decide on the device type: Choose the kind of device you need, for example a lamp or a plug.
- Choose the radio technology: Check which connection suits your home.
- Search the directory: Filter the list and compare the results.
- Check the detail page: Open the device and read the technical data, especially the certificate ID and Matter version.
- Look at the manufacturer: The manufacturer page shows which products a provider offers overall.
You will find the manufacturer pages under Manufacturers. There you can see all recorded devices of a provider in one place, which makes comparing easier.
The buying check in everyday life
Before you order, a short checklist helps:
- Is the device listed as certified in the directory or in the DCL?
- Does the radio technology suit your home and your controller?
- Does your control system support the Matter version of the device?
- Does the model match the product you are actually buying? Watch out for variants, for example for other countries.
- Is there an instruction for resetting and setting up the device?
The last point is often underestimated. A device with poorly documented setup costs time and nerves. A look at the manual says a lot about the manufacturer.
How to buy Matter devices: common mistakes to avoid
Some mistakes come up again and again:
- Looking only at the logo. A logo alone says nothing about the specific variant.
- Forgetting the radio technology. A Thread device without a border router stays unreachable on the network.
- Confusing variants. Identical names can refer to different models for different markets.
- Relying only on reviews. They show impressions, but not a technical check.
Conclusion: buy well prepared
If you want to buy Matter devices, check three things: the certification, the radio technology and compatibility with your control system. The device directory on matter.tips helps you compare these details quickly. If you want to set up the device afterwards, the article Setting up a Matter device: step by step to a finished device walks you through it. To learn what a border router does for Thread devices, read Border router and controller.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell whether a Matter device is certified?
Check the certificate ID and the details in the Distributed Compliance Ledger of the CSA or in the device directory on matter.tips. A logo on the packaging is only a first hint.
What does the Matter version of a device mean?
It shows which version of the standard the device implements. Your control system should support this version so that all functions work reliably.
Do I need a border router for every Matter device?
No. Only devices with a Thread connection need a border router. Wi-Fi devices connect directly to your home network.
Where can I find Matter devices from a specific manufacturer?
The manufacturer page on matter.tips shows all recorded devices of a provider. You can reach it through the overview of manufacturers.
What is the Distributed Compliance Ledger?
The DCL is a public database operated by the CSA, in which certified Matter products are listed with manufacturer, product ID and certificate data.
