The Best Matter-Compatible Relay Switches

As far as Matter has come along over the years, there are still some rather glaring holes when it comes to the types of devices the platform supports. If you are tired of waiting for devices like garage door openers to hit the scene, you can take matters into your own hands now with a smart relay switch.

In this guide, we'll give you our top relay picks so you can get started on your DIY project right away.

What is a Matter-compatible Relay Switch?

As we just mentioned, Matter-compatible relay switches give you the ability to bring smart capabilities to existing devices. Like smart plugs, relay switches act as a middleman of sorts, by supplying power to connected devices only on-demand through smart apps and voice commands.

However, instead of a simple plug-in design, smart relays require hardwiring. Don't worry though, if you are familiar with installing Matter smart switches, you'll be instantly at home with a relay.

Installing a Matter relay usually consists of connecting line, load, and neutral wires into a designated set of in and out terminals. Since they support standard household wiring, relays are often used in place of light switches, but they can also be used for momentary switches, fireplaces, blinds, contact sensors, boilers, and garage doors.

Once wired, you can treat the relay as a standard Matter device—just scan to begin pairing. By default, a relay will appear as either a light or outlet in platforms like Apple Home via Matter, but some vendor apps may allow for more custom options.

What to Look for in Matter-compatible Relay Switches

As with other Matter device categories, there are three main areas to consider when shopping for a relay switch: budget, features, and platform.

• Budget: Matter relays are fairly inexpensive, but some require additional hardware.  If budget is a concern, stick to a Wi-Fi relay to cut out the need for hubs.

• Features: There aren't a ton of differentiating factors with relays, but some include extras such as power state saving, higher maximum amperage, and more than one input.

• Platform: With Matter, you're guaranteed multi-platform compatibility right out of the box. However, some vendors—like Aqara—offer additional capabilities by connecting devices within their product family.

The Top 4 Matter-compatible Relay Switches

Believe it or not, there are quite a few Matter-compatible relay switches on the market already. We've narrowed it down to the top four so you can choose the best for your DIY project.

Aqara Dual Relay Module T2

Aqara's relay switch is the only Matter-compatible option on the market that doesn't rely on Wi-Fi. Instead, the Aqara T2 utilizes ZigBee 3.0 which offers greater reliability and local connectivity when connected to an Aqara hub, like the recently released M3.

The Aqara T2 Dual Relay Module supports both wet and dry contact modes making it an excellent fit for garage doors, window shades, lighting, and more. Other features include energy monitoring, motor interlocking, overload/overheat protection, and the ability to retain its state if an electrical outage occurs.

SONOFF MINIR4M 10A Matter Smart Switch

If you prefer a hub-free solution, then the SONOFF MINIR4M might be your best bet. With SONOFF's relay, you'll only need to scan the included Matter QR pairing code to set up the smart device over Wi-Fi after wiring it up.

Despite having Wi-Fi onboard, SONOFF's 10-amp relay is incredibly tiny at less than three inches wide. Its compact footprint works well for installation behind light switches, but it can also be used for momentary switches, contact sensors, and anything else you want to make smart.

RODOT Matter Smart Switch

While it may look similar to other relays, the RODOT Matter Wi-Fi Smart Switch one-ups its competition in one key area. Instead of being limited to just 10-amp loads, RODOT's 120-volt relay supports up to a whopping 16 amps maximum.

The higher capacity rating makes this relay suitable for fans, fireplaces, electrical outlets, and other intensive applications. Of course, you can still use RODOT's relay for lighting, and although it's more capable, it still tucks nicely inside most electrical boxes.

Athom Matter Mini DIY WiFi Relay Switch

At just $16.99, the Athom Matter DIY WiFi Relay Switch is about as cheap as it can get. Although more affordable, Athom's relay doesn't skimp on the most important features: Matter compatibility, support for 10-amp maximum loads, and seamless Wi-Fi pairing.

The only real difference between Athom's relay and others is that it can only accommodate one electrical load. This shouldn't be a problem for most common installations, but it is something to keep in mind when shopping around.

Go DIY With a Matter-compatible Relay Switch

Until Matter gains support for additional categories, you'll need to take a DIY approach to make devices like fireplaces and garage door openers compatible with the hottest smart home platform. All it takes is a little electrical know-how and the right smart relay switch to make the move to Matter.