Last updated: February 2026
Smart lighting is the easiest entry point into home automation. No rewiring needed, instant results, and prices have never been lower. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Why Switch to Smart Lighting?
- Convenience: Control lights from your phone, voice, or automatically
- Energy savings: Never leave lights on accidentally again
- Ambience: Set the perfect mood with dimmable, colour-changing bulbs
- Security: Make it look like you’re home when you’re not
The Main Smart Lighting Options
Smart Bulbs
The simplest option: screw out your old bulb, screw in a smart one. Most work over WiFi or with a hub.
Best for: Starting small, renters, trying before committing
Top picks:
- Philips Hue: The gold standard. Reliable, huge ecosystem, but pricier
- LIFX: No hub needed, excellent colours
- TP-Link Tapo: Budget-friendly, WiFi-based
- IKEA DIRIGERA: Affordable with good Matter support
Smart Switches
Replace your wall switch with a smart version. All bulbs on that circuit become smart.
Best for: Whole-room control, multiple bulbs on one circuit
Note: May require neutral wire (most UK homes built after 2000 have this)
Smart Plugs
Plug a lamp into a smart plug and control it remotely. The cheapest way to start.
Best for: Table lamps, floor lamps, testing the waters
Hub or No Hub?
Hub-based systems (Philips Hue, IKEA Trådfri)
Pros: More reliable, faster response, works when internet is down
Cons: Extra cost upfront, another device to manage
WiFi bulbs (LIFX, Tapo, Wiz)
Pros: Simpler setup, no extra hardware
Cons: Can slow your WiFi with many bulbs, relies on internet
Our advice: Start with WiFi bulbs. If you expand beyond 10-15 bulbs, consider a hub system.
Voice Control Setup
All major smart bulbs work with:
- Amazon Alexa: “Alexa, turn off the living room lights”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, dim the bedroom to 50%”
- Apple HomeKit: “Hey Siri, set the lights to warm white”
Not sure which speaker to get? See our Echo vs Nest comparison.
Automation Ideas
Once your lights are smart, try these automations:
- Motion-activated: Hallway lights that turn on when you walk past
- Sunrise simulation: Gradually brighten your bedroom before your alarm
- Away mode: Random lights turn on/off to simulate occupancy
- Movie time: One command dims lights and sets the mood
Starter Kit Recommendations
Budget Start (Under £30)
2x TP-Link Tapo smart bulbs + existing phone = basic smart lighting
Quality Start (Under £100)
Philips Hue starter kit (bridge + 2 bulbs) = rock-solid foundation
Full Room (Under £200)
Hue bridge + 4-5 bulbs + motion sensor = fully automated room
Top Tips
- Start with one room before going whole-home
- Stick to one ecosystem to keep things simple
- Don’t forget the wall switch – smart bulbs need power to work
- Check bulb fitting (B22 bayonet is most common in UK, E27 screw is also popular)
Ready to start? Pick up a couple of smart bulbs and experience the magic of voice-controlled lighting.