As smart homes become more advanced, choosing the right hub is essential. Aqara has built a reputation for reliable, affordable, and future-proof solutions, and in 2025 the range of hubs is more impressive than ever. But with several options available, which is the best Aqara hub for your smart home? Let’s explore the different models and their strengths so you can make an informed choice.
Aqara Hub M2 – A Reliable Classic
The Aqara Hub M2 remains a staple in Aqara’s line-up. Supporting Zigbee 3.0, it can connect up to 128 devices, making it ideal for those with a growing ecosystem of smart sensors, switches, and plugs.
The M2 also features an infrared controller, enabling you to manage traditional devices such as TVs or air conditioning units. With Ethernet connectivity, dual-band Wi-Fi and built-in speaker functions, it’s a versatile option that continues to stand the test of time.
For homeowners seeking reliability and value, the M2 is arguably the best Aqara hub for those who primarily want to expand their Zigbee network without breaking the bank.
Aqara Hub M3 – Designed for the Future
If future-proofing your smart home is a top priority, the Aqara Hub M3 is the hub to consider. As Aqara’s flagship hub, it supports the latest smart home standards, including Matter and Thread, alongside Zigbee 3.0.
This makes it a brilliant choice if you’re planning to integrate devices from different ecosystems and want everything to work seamlessly through one central hub. The M3 is also a powerful Matter controller, meaning it plays nicely with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and more.
For households looking to build a robust and cross-compatible smart home setup, the M3 stands out as the best Aqara hub to ensure you’re ready for the next generation of connected devices.
Aqara Camera Hub G3 – Security and Smart Control in One
For those who want both automation control and indoor security monitoring, the Aqara Camera Hub G3 is an outstanding option. Offering high-quality video recording, pan-and-tilt functions, and AI-based recognition features, it doubles as both a security camera and a Zigbee 3.0 hub.
It’s also compatible with voice assistants and integrates smoothly with Aqara sensors to trigger smart actions. For example, if motion is detected at night, the G3 can record the event and simultaneously trigger a smart light.
This combination makes the G3 the best Aqara hub if you value peace of mind and want to combine automation with home security.
Aqara Camera Hub G2H Pro – Compact but Capable
If you’re looking for something smaller but still powerful, the Aqara Camera Hub G2H Pro is worth considering. This compact camera hub offers 1080p recording, secure encryption, and full Zigbee hub functionality.
Its discreet design makes it perfect for smaller rooms, flats, or as an additional hub in multi-room setups. While not as feature-packed as the G3, it’s affordable and highly efficient. For those who need a balance of functionality and compact design, the G2H Pro is a strong contender for the best Aqara hub in smaller spaces.
Aqara E1 Hub – Small but Mighty
The Aqara Hub E1 is Aqara’s most compact hub, resembling a USB stick that can plug into any USB port for power. Despite its size, it supports Zigbee 3.0 and up to 128 devices.
It’s an excellent choice for flats, secondary homes, or for extending your existing smart home into additional rooms. If portability and simplicity matter most to you, the E1 could be the best Aqara hub for your needs.
Aqara Hub G3 vs G2H Pro vs E1 – Which to Pick?
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Choose the G3 if you want advanced camera functions and smart recognition.
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Pick the G2H Pro if you want a more compact camera-hub combination at a lower price.
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Opt for the E1 if you’re after the most portable and discreet solution.
Each of these hubs serves a different purpose, so your choice depends on whether security, space, or portability is your main concern.
Aqara Hub M1S Gen 2 – A Smart Entry Point
The Aqara Hub M1S Gen 2 is another excellent option, especially for newcomers to smart home technology. Supporting Zigbee 3.0, it includes a built-in night light and speaker, allowing it to double as a home alarm and visual alert system.
It’s user-friendly, affordable, and integrates seamlessly with Aqara’s wide ecosystem of devices, making it one of the best Aqara hub choices for beginners.
Quick Comparison
| Hub Model | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hub M2 | Zigbee, IR blaster, Ethernet, reliable | Affordable all-rounder |
| Hub M3 | Zigbee, Matter, Thread, future-proof | Cross-platform smart homes |
| Camera Hub G3 | 2K camera, pan-tilt, AI, Zigbee hub | Indoor security + automation |
| Camera Hub G2H Pro | Compact camera hub, secure, Zigbee | Smaller rooms, multi-hub setups |
| Hub E1 | Ultra-compact, USB-powered, Zigbee | Portability and expansion |
| Hub M1S Gen 2 | Zigbee, alarm, night light, speaker | Beginners and smaller households |
Final Thoughts
So, which is the best Aqara hub for your smart home in 2025?
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Choose the M2 if you want proven reliability at a good price.
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Pick the M3 if you want full Matter and Thread support for future-proofing.
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Opt for the G3 or G2H Pro if you want a hub that doubles as a security camera.
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Go with the E1 if you value portability.
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Try the M1S Gen 2 if you want a simple, beginner-friendly introduction to smart home automation.
No matter which option you choose, Aqara hubs offer powerful features, strong reliability, and excellent integration. To explore the full range and find your ideal hub, visit the Aqara Shop UK hub collection.