The Philips Hue LED lighting system pioneered smart home products when it launched in 2012. Years later, it remains one of the most popular options on the market. However, it's also among the priciest smart lighting systems available.
The list of Philips Hue alternatives grows each year. In this article, as a smart home expert who's tested dozens of lighting systems, we explore promising cheaper options like Stack lights—which deliver unique responsive features. We'll compare this newcomer to the original on features, performance, and price.
Philips Hue offers smart LED bulbs controllable via iOS devices and Apple Watch. With the official Hue app, select from 16 million colors.
In 2017, Philips Hue provided three main product types in various shapes and sizes. White and Color Ambiance bulbs, the premium option, unlock unlimited colors and syncing with music, TV, and games for immersive experiences.
White Ambiance bulbs deliver a full spectrum of natural whites, perfect for focus, reading, or relaxation. Basic White bulbs offer simple dimming at the lowest cost.
Philips Hue stacks up closely against competitors like LIFX, Belkin WeMo, and GE Link. Though protocols vary, all enable mobile control over your home network. Most provide white and color bulbs, with colors commanding the higher price.
Unlike traditional smart lights, Stack bulbs automatically adapt to ambient light and weather changes, adjusting brightness and color temperature hands-free. Stack Labs prefers calling this a sensible approach over merely intelligent lighting.
Stack focuses on four key areas for true responsiveness:
Stack minimizes manual tweaks but retains core features. Use the app to adjust color temperature, brightness, or set wake-up schedules. Disable sensors anytime.
IFTTT support lets you connect Stack to other lights—like triggering Philips Hue or LIFX on occupancy detection.
Stack works with Amazon Alexa and Google Nest, with Apple HomeKit compatibility coming soon.
The Stack Enabled program sets it apart, allowing other manufacturers to embed Stack's sensor and processing tech into their fixtures.
Stack notes, "These lights use Stack's innovative building intelligence technologies to be truly responsive, at a fraction of the cost of other solutions."
Early partners include Brilia, Lunera, and Plumen for residential and commercial use.
Stack offers two starter kits on its site. The Classic Starter Kit ($89) includes two A19 bulbs and a base. The Downlight Starter Kit ($99) has two BR30 bulbs and a puck. Individual A19 bulbs cost $28; BR30s are $45.
For context, the Philips Hue White Ambiance A19 Starter Kit retails for $130, with two A19 bulbs, a hub, and dimmer switch. Replacements are $30 each. No BR30 starter kit exists; those bulbs sell for $30 apiece or two for $50.
Like Philips Hue, Stack uses ZigBee communication—one hub supports your entire setup.
Philips Hue has long faced price critiques, especially for color bulbs. Yet its white and ambiance options often match or undercut Stack.
Stack is newer to the scene, with Enabled products still launching. Future variety could lower costs further.
Ultimately, choose based on needs: smart control, responsiveness, or both. Stack's potential shines, but proven reliability matters.
Is responsive lighting the future of smart homes? Share your thoughts in the comments.
