As a smart home expert with years of hands-on testing, I've seen the rapid evolution of smart lighting. These multi-color bulbs not only create stunning ambiances but also support health benefits like better sleep through circadian rhythm alignment, backed by scientific studies on lighting's impact.
In this guide, we highlight the best multi-color smart bulbs available in 2017, based on performance, features, and reliability.
Philips Hue pioneered smart lighting. Their White and Color Ambiance bulbs deliver nearly unlimited colors and sync with music, TV, and games. Available in A19, G10, and PAR16 sizes, control them via the Hue app.
Compatibility and features - Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $200 for three A19 bulbs and bridge; additional bulbs from $50.
LIFX bulbs shine at 1,100 lumens (like a 75W incandescent, using just 11W). Generation 3 offers 16 million colors and 1,000 white shades; LIFX+ adds infrared for night vision. Sizes: A19, BR30 (outdoor-ready). No hub needed.
Compatibility and features - Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android, Windows.
Starter kit - Two-bulb pack for $100.
MIPOW's PlayBulb Color combines lighting with a built-in speaker for music playback. Access millions of colors and effects via the PlayBulb X app.
Compatibility and features - iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $80 per bulb; $40 PlayBulb Rainbow (no speaker).
Flux bulbs offer Bluetooth control with sunrise simulation and music sync. Second-gen via Flux app.
Compatibility and features - Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $38 each or $105 for three.
Ilumi's A19, BR30 indoor/outdoor bulbs use Bluetooth, no hub. The app controls up to 50 bulbs with presets, effects, music sync, and switch-default settings.
Compatibility and features - iOS, Android (Alexa soon).
Starter kit - $50 A19 bulb.
Avea delivers dynamic light scenes via app or Apple Watch. Bluetooth-controlled; E27/A21 format or Flare portable lamp.
Compatibility and features - iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $40 per E27 bulb.
TP-Link's no-hub bulbs use the Kasa app. Premium color model offers 16 million hues, schedules, timers.
Compatibility and features - Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $50 per bulb; buy two minimum.
A budget-friendly option at $20, Nyrius matches premium features like dimming and timers via app.
Compatibility and features - iOS, Android.
Starter kit - $20 each; buy three.
With smart lighting advancing quickly, these 2017 standouts offer reliable entry points or expansions. What multi-color bulbs light up your home? Share in the comments!
