What is a Smart Hub – And Do You Need One?

If you’re starting your smart home journey, you’ve probably come across the term “smart hub.” But what exactly is a smart hub—and do you actually need one? Let our team here at GoSmart give you some quick advice. 

What is a Smart Hub?

A smart hub is a central device that connects and controls all your smart home gadgets. It acts like the “brain” of your setup, allowing devices from different brands or systems to work together—even if they use different communication methods like Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave.

Instead of controlling each smart device through separate apps, a smart hub can let you manage everything from one place—usually through a smartphone app or voice assistant.

Why Use a Smart Hub?

Here are a few reasons why a smart hub can be a great addition to your setup:

• Better Automation: Set up routines that involve multiple devices (e.g. turn off lights and lock doors at bedtime).
• More Device Compatibility: Some smart devices only work with certain hubs or protocols (like Zigbee).
• Local Control: Some hubs allow you to control devices even if your internet is down.
• Simplified Management: Control everything through one app instead of several.

Do You Always Need One?

Not necessarily. Many devices today (especially Wi-Fi-based ones) don’t require a hub and can be controlled directly from your phone. But if you’re planning a more advanced setup with multiple devices— especially from different brands—a hub helps everything work together more smoothly.

A smart hub isn’t always essential, but it can make your smart home more reliable, connected, and easier to manage—especially as you add more devices. If you’re just starting out, you may not need one yet—but it’s worth considering as your setup grows.

If you need some expert advice, simply reach out to our team through our contact form and we can give you specific guidance.