I often see reviews of HomeKit devices saying things like "and it doesn't require a hub". Having installed dozens of devices directly on Wi-Fi and probably twice as much through various hubs and bridges (Lutron, Aqara, etc.), I have to say that I prefer an ecosystem with its own hub. It comes down to a couple of things:

* ** Reliability. ** I have basically only seen "no response" from directly connected devices. Aqara's Zigbee network and Lutron's proprietary (?) Protocol are bulletproof in my experience. (And it probably doesn't hurt that the Lutron Bridge itself is stuck.)
* ** Setup. ** Yes, the HomeKit setup is drop-dead simple for each of my Wi-Fi connected devices, but when I've had to set things up a second or third time, I only have a single hub or bridge to add for HomeKit feels miraculous. All devices connected to the hub are included in the trip. I don't have to set them separately.
* ** Cost. ** I'm sure there are other factors, but after the initial investment of the hub, the hub-connected devices generally look cheaper. I mean, just look how cheap Aqara sensors are. Wi-Fi connected sensors can be 4 times the price.

I haven't found a better solution for smart connectors, but when it comes to sensors (Aqara) and switches (Lutron), I can't imagine recommending anything other than hub-connected devices to anyone who asks.

Hell, even the Yale Assure locks I have are August Connect, which is pretty much a hub for every lock. I used a smart lock with no hub before and I had to return it. I had to use a key to get half the time, because the direct Bluetooth connection was completely flabby.