![]() ![]() The three-pack now comes with a smart button that we haven't tried, but it seems similar to Ikea's remote. The hub lets you connect older Philips bulbs as well as other first- or third-party accessories, like the outdoor motion sensor. The app includes helpful how-to videos that explain the bulb's extra functions, like using one as a timer (it blinks!). ![]() You can choose many colors and brightness levels, as well as preset scenes to set the mood (or you can make your own). It comes with three or four bulbs and a Hue Bridge hub that lets you connect the bulbs to your phone or voice assistant. ![]() The Philips kit is more expensive than the Ikea one, but it's available at a variety of retailers and is compatible with most assistants. (The company says the requirement was there to determine the country the device was in for geo-specific services.) The problem? The Aurora is more expensive per bulb than the Cync. Nooie says app permissions mentioned in reviews have also been tweaked, and the app no longer requires permission to make calls. It has been updated since then, and I had no problems pairing or controlling either device. I touched the bulb after it had been on for a while-no burned fingers here.Īmazon reviews from around 2019 for both the bulb and the plug (which I also like) note issues with the app. It's also designed to not overheat, thanks to "special cooling materials," according to Nooie's website. It has regular on/off schedule options, as well as wake-up and bedtime schedules that can dim or brighten the bulb. Its white spectrum could stand to be broader and brighter, but it's enough to satisfy most people's needs. The Aurora offers a range of nice hues, with preset themes and the ability to make your own. ★ An alternative: If you want even brighter colors, the Cync Reveal HD+ bulbs ($15) are just as easy to use and install but are a little more vibrant. Works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa All of those products, aside from the Sol lamp, will continue to work through the new app and get updates as usual. You can also get a two-pack of bulbs for less than $25.Ĭync is formerly C by GE, so you may still find products under the latter name. Cync's Direct Connect lineup pairs easily with most voice assistants (except Siri) and you can control them remotely away from home without the need for a hub. You can also set up scenes and schedules within the app. Controlling the bulb is easy, as the app has a straightforward way to switch colors, activate Light Shows, and control power. It's hard to pick the absolute best smart bulb because they're all quite similar, but the Full Color Direct Connect from Cync was the easiest to set up-it took less than a minute in the Cync app from start to finish. It's worth noting that you might run into issues using smart bulbs with dimmer switches. It's not the worst thing, but it can be a nuisance. Most bulbs can be set up separately, but some companies require you to connect a hub to your router. You might have to occasionally reconnect the bulb to the app. Make sure to leave the power switch or the wall switch turned on so the corresponding app can control the power instead. Usually, you only need to replace a bulb and download an app. ![]() The lights we recommend below are not meant to be used outdoors. If you're buying lighting for an office or other professional space where pink or blue shades would be frowned upon (or you just want the most affordable bulb), we have basic options listed below. All the color bulbs we tried have multiple white and warm settings, so if there's any chance you might want to try out colors occasionally, we recommend sticking with them. You'll typically see smart bulbs categorized by full color, dimmable white, and tunable white (bright white and warm tone options). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day. This includes unlimited access to and our print magazine (if you'd like). Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). Updated June 2023: We've added the Cync Reveal HD+ bulb. Of the dozens we've tested over the years, these are the best smart bulbs. Do you want to try voice controls? Consider getting a smart speaker or smart display, but you can always use the smart bulb's app. Plus, there are no cameras or door locks for someone to hack into, and no wiring to mess with. Most options are relatively cheap, and they’re easy to install. If you want to make your home a little smarter, smart bulbs are a great place to start. Now you can control the lights, set timers and schedules, and change colors with your smartphone or your voice if you have a voice assistant-no clapping required. Remember the allure of the Clapper? No more getting out of bed to hit the light switch! It seemed cutting edge at the time ( you can still buy it), but technology has come a long way since then. ![]()
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