Choosing a connected light bulb also means giving yourself the opportunity to create a personalized and warm atmosphere. Since incandescent light bulbs are now banned, people are opting for the more environmentally friendly choices that these new lighting options represent. Choose the best connected light bulb with our guide.
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Our selection
"The LIFX A19 is certainly the connected bulb that offers the most powerful light intensity of this selection. In addition to its ease of use,…"
"The Yeelight 1S is very deserving of its place in this selection. It can easily compete with high-end models thanks to its 16 million colors.…"
"Offered as a starter kit, the Philips Hue White and Color will make you benefit from a wide compatibility. Its intelligent system allows it to…"
"The TP-Link Kasa KL50 and KL60 package offers you great compatibility with several voice control systems like Alexa or Google Home. It stands out thanks…"
The LIFX A19 is certainly the connected bulb that offers the most powerful light intensity of this selection. In addition to its ease of use, this model also promises the most intuitive control.
See the priceWith its 1100 lumens, the LIFX A19 is the most powerful connected bulb in our comparison. Its angle of light surface exceeds 130 °, what delights all those who seek a good lighting in their home. Unlike some models, this one does not require a hub since it works directly through WiFi.
The LIFX A19 is compatible with various voice control systems such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Homekit. It installs on an E27 base, the most common type. The remote control of such a device will be easily done in addition to the planning of the time slot. Note that this model will come with a mini LED bulb of 800 lm that can be used for daily lighting.
The Yeelight 1S is very deserving of its place in this selection. It can easily compete with high-end models thanks to its 16 million colors. Note that this model is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Homekit.
See priceIf you already have a smart home, the Yeelight 1S will likely be the piece that completes your connected arsenal. It's compatible with many smart systems such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa through its Wifi connection. You will even be able to adjust the brightness temperature between 1700 to 6500K. Thus, it will be possible for you to set a precise mood according to your desires and mood.
This equipment can be controlled remotely. It should be noted that you can adjust the lighting of several bulbs for better synchronization or adjust them individually. The Yeelight 1S connected bulb even offers several pre-programmed modes, including wake-up and sleep mode.
Offered as a starter kit, the Philips Hue White and Color will make you benefit from a wide compatibility. Its intelligent system allows it to turn on or off automatically according to your programming.
See priceThe Philips Hue White and Color is as smart as it is easy to use. Allowing you to enjoy its 16 million colors, it is also equipped with Hue technology. Indeed, you can easily play with the lighting according to your desires thanks to your smartphone or your tablet. To do this, simply download the Hue app.
The connection bridge allows for a large installation of up to 50 bulbs. Each bulb offers a light output of up to 806 lumens. Thanks to the E27 base, they screw in easily. The kit includes a Hue Dim Switch remote control, 3 connected bulbs and a Hue bridge.
The TP-Link Kasa KL50 and KL60 package offers you great compatibility with several voice control systems like Alexa or Google Home. It stands out thanks to its activity simulation mode when you are away.
See the priceYou won't need a hub to operate your TP-Link Kasa connected light bulb package. Simply download the appropriate control and management app such as Google Home, SmartThings, Kasa Smart or Amazon Alexa.
Since the light intensity is fully adjustable, you can use these connected bulbs as accent lighting or as the main light. Pairing can be a bit more tedious, but once it's done, using them will be a breeze. The best part? With the ability to program the lights on and off, you'll be able to more easily simulate a presence in your home even when you're not there.
Any specific needs?
The best connected light bulb in 2021
The best entry-level connected light bulb
The best high-end connected light bulb
The most energy-efficient connected light bulbs
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE LINE | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
7/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
LIFX A19
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Yeelight 1S
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Philips Hue White and Color
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TP-Link Kasa KL50 and KL60
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The LIFX A19 is certainly the connected bulb that offers the most powerful light intensity of this selection. In addition to its ease of use, this model also promises the most intuitive control.
|
The Yeelight 1S is very deserving of its place in this selection. It can easily compete with high-end models thanks to its 16 million colors. Note that this model is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Homekit.
|
Offered as a starter kit, the Philips Hue White and Color will make you benefit from a wide compatibility. Its intelligent system allows it to turn on or off automatically according to your programming.
|
The TP-Link Kasa KL50 and KL60 package offers you great compatibility with several voice control systems like Alexa or Google Home. It stands out thanks to its activity simulation mode when you are away.
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Connection type
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Wifi
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Wifi
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Bluetooth and Wifi
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Wifi
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Color temperature
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2500K - 9000K
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1700 - 6500K
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Around 4000K
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2700K - 2000K
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Home automation platforms
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Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, The Google Assistant, IFTTT, SmartThings, Nest, Arlo, Flic
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Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Homekit
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Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit
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Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Kasa Smart, SmartThings
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Power
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11 W
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10 W
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9.5 W
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7 W and 5 W
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Light output
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1100 lm
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800 lm
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806 lm
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Check that the connected bulb of your choice is compatible with the ones you already have. The same goes for the way you control the device. The most common models usually connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. If you have an Internet network, do not hesitate to choose the first option.
A feature almost available on all current models, the possibility of customizing the brightness and color variation can influence your choice. Thus, you will be able to activate white light or multicolor mode according to your mood without difficulty. Similarly, you also have the opportunity to adjust the intensity of the brightness for a better visual comfort. Creating atmosphere will no longer be a luxury.
There are 3 main forms of connected bulbs on the market. If the spherical shaped bulbs are suitable for E27 (large screw-in base) and B22 (bayonet base), those in the form of a flame are compatible with E14 (small screw-in base). Note that if you have Gu10 and Gu5.3 bases (for pin-based bulbs), you need to choose spot connected bulbs.
Now
that you know what type of base would work best with your bulb, find out where it fits and what configuration is possible for your home. If you're looking for connected spotlight bulbs for your ceiling fixture, table lamps, and pendant lights
, go for E27 base models. Some table lamps are best suited for E14. The B22 is intended for suspensions while the Gu10 and Gu5.3 are only available for wall lights as well as spotlights.
Your choice will depend on the use you plan to make with your connected bulb. A good number of users prefer these models as their main lighting. Others will choose them mostly as accent lighting, essential only to serve as a nightlight or to create a good mood. Connected bulbs can specifically play the role of a decorative element. Some models with a speaker will allow you to play music.
Just like the traditional version, the connected bulb must be attached to a base. It is the same LED bulb, the only difference is that it is equipped with a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi module. It is important to pair it with a smartphone, tablet or PDA to have control over the device. Everything is done through an appropriate application.
Once you connect them, you will be able toperform various commands such as turning the bulb on or off, changing the color, adjusting the intensity of the brightness... It doesn't matter where you are in your house, as long as you are always within Bluetooth or Wifi range.
It is important to note that according to the manufacturer, other features could enhance your connected bulb: multicolor LED, rotating camera, Wifi repeater, speaker ...
There is a wide range of models of connected light bulbs currently. However, to facilitate your choice, we have classified them into 2 main categories according to their connection system.
It is certainly the most widespread model of connected light bulb of the moment. It is very effective as a remote connection system. Intelligent, it offers the possibility to control the connected bulbs more easily through a smartphone or tablet. Note that the range of Bluetooth varies between 20 and 50 m
(with Mesh technology). To have full control over the device, you will need to download the compatible application. Wifi connectivity, on the other hand, allows you to control the bulb from anywhere in the world.
After recognizing the code assigned to the connected bulb, start the configuration. The different adjustments possible will depend mainly on the model and brand chosen. It should be noted, however, that the range will be very limited and you must stay at home to enjoy the connection via Bluetooth.
The best thing about the Bluetooth and Wifi connected light bulb is that you will have the possibility to control and set the device from home and outside your home. If you are home a lot, this is a great alternative.
The
connected light bulb via Wifi is an example of practicality. Indeed, this control system proves to be more efficient since you will be able to set and adjust the brightness even when you are away from your home.
The recognition of the code of your connected bulb is essential to control it completely. You are able to simulate a human presence in your home to deter potential intruders. The range of Wifi goes up to 100 m
, but you just need to access a wifi network where you are to reach your connected bulb.
This type of bulb is economical and heats up very little. It is also easy to set up. Apart from the more complex configuration, it would not work in case of power or Internet cut.
This type of connected light bulb is only suitable for people who have an Internet network at home. Thanks to its wide range, you can control it easily even if you are 100 meters away from the device.
The connected light bulb is a device that is easily controlled via Wifi or Bluetooth. All you'll need is a good smartphone/tablet and a voice assistant. Remotely, you'll be able to turn on, turn off and adjust the brightness level of your bulb. Models with Wifi allow you to simulate your presence even if you are not at home. Depending on the light provided, the connected light bulb will serve as the main light, as a back-up light or as a decorative element.
The connected LED ribbon is a must if you want to highlight a particular piece of furniture. It can easily be installed behind or under the television, around a piece of furniture such as a bed, a wardrobe... or a frame. Its main role here is to make an object stand out from its usual frame. Like the connected bulb, this one can also be controlled remotely. Its biggest advantage? You can connect several connected ribbons to make one.
The connected light bulb can be used as a decorative accessory or as accent lighting in a bedroom. Want to implement a personalized decor? Install your connected light bulb and let your imagination do the rest. For its part, the connected ribbon is especially prized for its flexibility. The choice is very interesting if you want to highlight a particular object such as a piece of furniture, a decorative item, a window...
The most suitable communication protocol
We can distinguish 2 types of communication protocols. If the most widespread is certainly the Bluetooth, its range does not generally exceed 50 m. You will avoid this problem with the Wifi model. Its greatest asset is that it will remain permanently connected. However, you have to understand that its range is also limited if there are white areas in your home.
Connecting a connected light bulb to Google Home
Nest and Google Home give you the ability to connect up to 30,000+ devices including lighting systems. If the connected bulb is compatible, install the Google Home app. Click on Add + and make sure to follow all the instructions. With this app, you'll be able to rename the product and even associate it with a specific room so you can manage it more easily.
Installing your connected light bulb effortlessly
The
Bluetooth connected bulb models don't require any major installation. You simply screw them into the base and download the appropriate app. Activate your Bluetooth to detect the device and then pair them up. The Wifi model may take longer to install. The application will have to connect to the network before the password is transmitted. Some models may require verification of your email to finalize the process.
A connected light bulb as main lighting
To
make a connected bulb a main light, it must offer a relatively large power. It is advisable to choose a model with a color temperature of about 4000K or a cool white light, ideal for rooms such as the bathroom or even the kitchen. In addition, if you want to install your connected bulbs in a bedroom, toilet or hallways, opt for a warm white model (with a lower color temperature).
Choosing the right voice assistant
Although
it's probably very convenient to control your connected bulb via an app, being able to pair it with a voice assistant will be better. It can be available on your smartphone or simply built into your connected speaker. All the models on our test bed are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and/or Apple Homekit.
The best connected light bulb depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.
Connected, the bulb will be easier to control. You won't have to get up or move to turn it off or on. The same goes for changing the intensity of the light, the color temperature...
Don't do it. Some models come with a wireless switch that offers fairly basic control capabilities. The switch can still be used when the Bluetooth or Wifi connection fails.
Indeed, the connected bulb is more energy consuming than a normal bulb. This is due to the constant connection of the device.
It is important to know that not all connected light bulbs are created equal. In addition to their power, the quality of the light offered can also vary according to the model. For warm lights, the colour temperature varies between 2000 and 4000K. A light intensity comparable to daylight is obtained with a temperature of 4000 to 5000K.
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