More smart lights we tested
Photo: Simon Hill
There are plenty of smart panels, strips, lamps and string lights for ambient lighting. Here are some we like too.
Lepro N1 AI Smart Neon Light Strip for $40: This is largely similar to the Govee Neon Light Strip above, providing beautiful diffused light in any color you want with support for many animated effects, music syncing and more in the app. However, I found the connectivity less reliable and preferred the Govee app. I tested that too Lepro S1 AI Smart LED Light Strip ($20)a cheaper light strip without a diffuser that is completely sufficient for recessed spotlights.
Linkind Smart TV Light Strip with HDMI Sync Box for $47: This is a much cheaper version of the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box above and includes a sync box and a color light strip that is suitable for up to 90-inch TVs. It works OKbut the HDMI inputs are limited to 4K at 60Hz, and it’s not as good as our TVs above, despite being much cheaper. I tested that too Linkind Smart Neon String Lights ($80) and I liked it.
Wiz Smart Neon Flex Strip for $80: This is another diffuse light strip that is very similar to the Govee Neon Light Strip above. It’s easy to customize and shape, can display multiple colors at once, and supports animated effects via the Wiz app. It can also be scheduled or synced with music. I tested it too and I liked it Wiz Smart LED Strip ($22).
Twinkly Dots for $82: You can stick these LED dot chains around frames and furniture or leave them hanging somewhere, and the app offers a wide range of colors and animated effects. You can map your pattern to get the most out of the effects, create your own effects, and group Twinkly lights. The downside is that the strip is divided into two sections, with the power controls in the middle, and there are not enough adhesive dots in the packaging. I tested it too and I liked it Glitter Garland ($40) Outdoor light bulb chain.
Govee G1 Gaming Light Bar for $45: This is very similar to the Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip for PC listed above, but not quite as good. It’s easy to install, available in two sizes (for 24 to 26 inch and 27 to 34 inch monitors) and will spice up your gaming. However, syncing requires Govee’s unreliable desktop software. Unfortunately, streaming services like Netflix report screen recording as a copyright violation, so syncing won’t work for them. Govee DreamView and Razer Chroma compatibility lets you sync other lights and peripherals.
Moonside Lamp One for $65: This modern lava lamp looks beautiful and has 120 dynamic color zones that can display millions of colors and themes (animated effects). You can even design your own themes or have the lamp respond to music. Unfortunately, the app is a bit clunky and the lamp is made of lightweight, matte plastic, making it easy to accidentally knock it over.
Philips Hue Go 2 for $90: This bowl-shaped portable lamp features an edge so you can tilt it to read, and makes a great bedside lamp with dimming at night and up to 520 lumens to wake you up in the morning. You can adjust the temperature and choose from millions of colors. This newer version (2019) has Bluetooth, so you don’t need a Hue Bridge. Battery life is limited; If you turn up the brightness you’ll be lucky to get two hours, but dimmed it can last around ten hours.
Nanoleaf Elements for $160: Plastic light panels can look ugly on some walls (especially when turned off), so Nanoleaf offers this version of its larger wood-effect hexagonal panels (they’re still plastic). Like the rest of the panels, you can arrange Nanoleaf’s Elements in any pattern you want, and they support touch controls and music syncing. Unfortunately, they only emit white light, but with a color temperature range of 1500K to 4000K, you can go from cool white to a warm orange glow.
Mpowerd Luci solar string lights for $33: If you need lights to take with you on the go or on camping trips, this clever gadget from Mpowerd can brighten up your RV or campsite. The container can be opened to unwind waterproof fairy lights (IPX4). Press the power button to use it as a flashlight or switch between the colors of the string lights. At the top there is a solar panel for charging (but it’s slow) and a port that goes in both directions (also called… Power bank).
Nanoleaf Lines for $140: Our previous pick for gamers, the Nanoleaf Lines (8/10, WIRED recommends) project light from the back of each line onto the wall, casting colors and creating a beautiful atmosphere. Even when turned off, the Lines look better than most decorative smart lights because they cast shadows on the wall and could pass as sculptural art. They also have screen mirroring for PC to improve gaming (Razer Chroma is also supported).
Lifx Lightstrip for $75: This is not as bright as the Philips Hue Gradient Smart Lightstrip, but offers rich colors, separate zones, and beautiful animations. The app allows planning and can gradually brighten a bedroom in the morning. There’s also the option to sync music using your phone’s microphone. The smart home integration is solid and no hub is required, but when I tested the previous version (the Lifx Z), the Wi-Fi would frequently disconnect and not respond until reset.
