Which is cheaper, Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub or Echo Hub (newest model), 8"?

Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub lists at $150 and Echo Hub (newest model), 8" lists at $180. Prices change often, so check the current listing before buying.

Head to head · Smart Home

Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub vs Echo Hub (newest model), 8"

Ravvy scores Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub at 74.52 and Echo Hub (newest model), 8" at 74.43. Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub takes the overall pick, best for users seeking a unified hub to bridge legacy z-wave and zigbee devices with modern matter standards..

Ravvy pick

AEOTEC

Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub

74.5

$150

This hub is the premier choice for SmartThings users needing a multi-protocol bridge that balances legacy Z-Wave/Zigbee support with Matter compatibility, provided they accept the dependency on the SmartThings cloud for initial configuration.

Amazon

Echo Hub (newest model), 8"

74.4

$180

The Echo Hub is the definitive wall-mounted command center for Alexa power users, trading audio quality for a highly efficient, responsive interface and professional-grade connectivity.

How they score

Factor	Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub	Echo Hub (newest model), 8"
Build Quality	76	–
Ease of Setup	91	–
Local Processing	84.5	–
Protocol Support	98	–
Ecosystem Compatibility	95.5	–
Display Quality	–	82
Value for Money	–	78.5
Audio Performance	–	55
Smart Home Integration	–	98
Installation Flexibility	–	91.5
Interface Responsiveness	–	89

Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub

What owners praise

Supports Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter protocols
Works with both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections
Fast local execution for many automation routines
Massive compatibility list with third-party brands
Compact and minimal aesthetic design

What to know first

Requires a constant internet connection for initial setup
Z-Wave frequency is region-locked to North America
Plastic casing feels slightly lightweight

Skip it if home automation purists seeking a 100% cloud-free or offline-only setup.

Echo Hub (newest model), 8"

What owners praise

Comprehensive built-in support for Matter, Thread, and Zigbee protocols
Highly customizable dashboard for quick access to frequent routines
Slim, wall-mountable design that mimics a professional security panel
Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatibility for clean, reliable installations
Fast, responsive interface optimized for smart home control over media

What to know first

Audio quality is noticeably thinner compared to the Echo Show 8
Many premium features require additional Ring or Alexa+ subscriptions
Table stand and PoE adapters must be purchased separately

Skip it if casual users seeking a bedside media player or portable smart speaker

Specs side by side

Spec	Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub	Echo Hub (newest model), 8"
UPC	810667025410	–
ASIN	B08TWDNQ5Q	–
GTIN	810667025410	–
Brand	AEOTEC	–
Color	White	–
Frequency	908.42 MHz	–
Model Name	V3 - Smart Home Hub (2020)	–
Unit Count	1 Count	–
Item Weight	1.1 pounds	–
Manufacturer	Aeotec	–
Model Number	GP-AEOHUBV3US	–
Built-In Media	Adapter, Ethernet Cable	–