On the left is the regular Hue Lightstrip Plus ($80 U.S.). This setup actually uses two units, one on the left and another on the right side of the TV, collectively forming an 'Entertainment Area' as configured in the Hue app. For synchronization with the on-screen content, either the Hue Play HDMI Sync Box or Hue Sync for PC is required.
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I utilize the HDMI Sync Box ($230), although it can be somewhat difficult to find at retail. The Hue Sync for PC app is available for free, but it only works if you're streaming content from a PC or Mac connected to the television, which is not a common or convenient arrangement for many users.
Overall, the original Lightstrips are fantastic and rank among the best options for introducing smart accent lighting to your home; however, they can only emit one color at a time.
Making them respond dynamically to live television content (such as movies, shows, or video games) wasn't initially part of their design, yet they manage to significantly enhance the atmosphere during fast-paced onscreen action—even if this type of bias lighting is not suited for everyone. Personally, I don't always rely on it.
On the right of the video is the innovative Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip ($200), which is capable of changing colors per LED, granting it a notable advantage over the original model—especially when synchronizing with onscreen content using the HDMI Sync Box.
A well-designed LED light strip can revitalize a dark basement playroom into an ideal teenager's haven, or bring essential illumination to a dim kitchen. Whether you're aiming to introduce vibrant colors or simply want to enhance room brightness, the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus is an easy-to-install, user-friendly option, making it one of the leading light strips on the market.
LED light strips are flexible circuit boards embedded with small LED lights. They can bend and be trimmed to size, while consuming less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. These strips can be strategically placed under cabinets, around window frames, on walls, or anywhere else to infuse color and light where needed.
For this review, I opted to install the Philips Hue Lightstrips Plus beneath my kitchen cabinets to enhance illumination in the area. With my dark cabinetry and countertops, these strip lights made a substantial difference in both the ambiance of the kitchen and my visibility during food preparation. Additionally, this option was significantly more economical than installing additional overhead lighting.
Ease of use was another factor I considered. Since it operates with Bluetooth connectivity or can be integrated with a smart speaker, the Philips solution suited my needs perfectly. However, due to the relatively high cost and numerous add-ons required to maximize its functionality, these smart light strips might not be the most suitable option for everyone. After a week of use, here are my observations to consider before purchasing.
Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus, 6-Foot Base Kit
$99.99 $88.73 at Amazon
The Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus is an excellent way to incorporate appealing LED lighting into your home; however, it only justifies its price if you're already using Philips lighting and own a Hue Bridge. Those in search of more affordable alternatives may find better options with Govee or Wyze.
Philips Hue bulbs are celebrated for their exceptional quality and vibrant colors. Though these light strips are on the pricier side compared to competitors like Govee and Wyze, they performed well in all crucial aspects. Their lumen output ranks among the brightest available, and they offer a staggering 16 million colors along with a variety of warm-to-cool whites. If you're curious about the advantage of switching to whites versus bold hues, warm whites create a calming atmosphere, while cooler tones resemble natural daylight, which can be beneficial in kitchens or study areas.
Simple setup, customizable sizing, and app control
Setting up the lightstrips is incredibly straightforward. I simply plugged them in, powered them on, and used the Philips Hue app (available for both iOS and Android), which recognized and configured the light strip automatically. The lightstrip itself measures 80 inches long, and I appreciated the customizable sizing options.
For example, if you need additional light output, you can add 3-foot extensions, which connect via small ports at either end, allowing for a total length of up to 32 feet. Conversely, if a shorter strip is required, you have the option to trim them with scissors or a utility knife—a feature not offered by all light strips. Philips has even included cut mark indicators, guiding you on where to cut to adjust length precisely. Moreover, it's advisable to preserve any leftovers, as they can be connected to new strips with clamps later. Philips provides one snap connector in the package, while additional connectors can be purchased separately.
With the app, you can modify the strip's color or temperature, set moods like 'relaxing' or 'energizing', or create custom scenes. I prefer to keep my under-cabinet light strips on an energizing white light (which I often dim) or use one of the preset scenes in the Hue app, like Spring Blossom or Crocus. You might find yourself enjoying the process of exploring various scenes in the app and can save your favorites for quick access at any time.
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I really appreciate how these strips can be easily shaped and molded, making them perfect for fitting under cabinets, along baseboards, or around curves. Initially, I thought that I would need to cut and clamp to create a 90-degree angle; however, they were so adaptable that cutting wasn't necessary.
If placed along stairs or another visible area requiring a right angle, Philips recommends using corner connectors, which are L-shaped. These connectors allow for a polished and flush appearance instead of simply bending the lights around the corner.
Installing the Philips Hue Lightstrips could not be easier. Just position them, remove the adhesive backing, and press down firmly to secure. The smaller adhesive strips along the back are a thoughtful addition since they allow for minor adjustments without hassle. However, you must consider having an accessible electrical outlet nearby for power supply when choosing a placement location.
Philips Lightstrips can be installed on any flat surface. For example, they can be placed under a child's bed, casting soft illumination onto the floor, or beneath shelves to spotlight items or introduce color. When positioned behind a TV, they can enhance the immersive experience in a home theater.
You can control the light strips in a couple of ways. Firstly, through the Philips Hue Bluetooth app which is user-friendly and reliable. If your smartphone is always within reach, it suffices for controlling up to 10 devices within a range of about 30 feet.
Alternatively, if you possess an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant smart speaker that utilizes Zigbee wireless technology, voice control is an option. This is my preferred method due to having several Alexa devices at home, including one conveniently located in the kitchen. It's far more effortless than pulling out my phone, launching the app, and selecting a setting. For this, you need to enable the 'Hue' skill within the Alexa app and input your Hue credentials to link your account. Once linked, you can use commands like 'Alexa, turn on the kitchen cabinet lights.'
Related: The best smart bulbs you can buy now
Note that if you want to control scenes or change light colors through voice commands, you will need to acquire a $59 Philips Wi-Fi-enabled Hue Bridge, which serves as the central hub in the Philips Hue ecosystem. I personally use a bridge to manage all my Philips smart lighting. Having a bridge significantly enhances the Lightstrip Plus experience, and you can purchase it separately or as part of a popular Hue Starter Kit. With the bridge, you can instruct Alexa to adjust brightness and warmth or switch to specific colors or scenes. Additionally, it enables features like scheduling lights and creating scenes even when you are away from home, controlling up to 50 lights via the app or voice commands with Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit.
Utilizing a bridge along with accessories, such as the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box, provides even more intelligent features. My favorite aspect is the ability to synchronize the light strips to both music and visual content using the Hue Sync app. The lighting reacts to what's happening onscreen, altering, dimming, or flashing in sync with the action or the beat of the music. The colors around the back of your TV shift seamlessly with on-screen events, which only requires appropriate placement of the lights and linking the TV to the Sync Box.
This feature is also immensely popular among gamers, as it responds to in-game actions whether the lights are placed around a gaming setup or on a desk.
Due to the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus’s limitation of displaying one color at a time, it lacks the capability to change the color of individual sections. As a result, if you select a specific color or scene, all bulbs will adopt that color. Should you prefer a lightstrip that can showcase multiple colors simultaneously, consider the more expensive Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip.
Although these lightstrips are feature-rich, they come with a higher price tag compared to similar options from Govee and Wyze. Therefore, unless you're planning to expand your setup in the future, you may want to reconsider your options.
If you're looking to unlock comprehensive features like automating lighting, syncing with entertainment systems, and remote control functions, acquiring a Bridge is essential. This adds $59 to your overall investment. You can also integrate motion sensors or a Hue dimmer switch to create a more streamlined ecosystem, but all these extras can quickly elevate the cost.
I genuinely appreciate the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus. It not only looks appealing but also offers ease of use and a multitude of practical features. However, considering the price, it’s best suited for those who already possess Philips lighting and a Hue Bridge in their smart home. Adding a bridge to maximize the Lightstrip Plus’s capabilities significantly raises the total cost, meaning its value is diminished if used without one.
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