Smart lighting has become one of the most accessible entry points into the smart home, offering convenience and versatility at relatively low cost. Recent polling of Mashable readers reveals a clear preference for two brands: TP-Link (Kasa) and Philips Hue. While both brands scored high overall, Kasa emerged as the favorite in most categories, particularly regarding value for money.
Cost and Accessibility Drive Preference
Readers overwhelmingly favored Kasa for its affordability. The brand achieved an 8.7 out of 10 rating for cost-effectiveness, compared to Philips Hue’s 6.4. This difference reflects a broader trend: consumers are increasingly seeking smart home solutions that don’t require significant upfront investment. One respondent explained, “The only reason I am not ‘extremely likely’ to recommend Philips Hue is they are relatively expensive compared to other brands.”
This preference for budget-friendly options doesn’t necessarily indicate dissatisfaction with premium brands like Philips Hue. Rather, it highlights a pragmatic approach to smart home adoption. As one Kasa user noted, “I had another brand before and found them so frustrating. I was glad to find these worked to my liking at a lower cost.”
Ease of Use and Integration Remain Key
Both Kasa and Philips Hue received high marks for ease of use, reliability, and compatibility with popular smart assistants. Multiple respondents reported seamless integration with Alexa and Google Assistant, controlling lights via voice commands and automated schedules. A Philips Hue user stated, “Mostly, they work extremely well. We primarily control them by voice through Alexa.”
Another Kasa user highlighted the benefits of automation: “I have a bunch of these bulbs throughout the interior and exterior of the house… I can set them up for specific times, on and off at sunset/sunrise, and they have the ability to change colors. They integrate into my Google Home system without any problems.”
Philips Hue Excels in Advanced Features
While Kasa dominated in value and accessibility, Philips Hue received higher ratings in areas such as bulb lifetime, preset color themes, and advanced automation features. This suggests that Philips Hue remains the preferred choice for users who prioritize longevity, customization, and a more refined smart lighting experience.
Overall Recommendation
Mashable readers recommend both TP-Link (Kasa) and Philips Hue at an equal 8.1 out of 10. This reflects a clear market segmentation: Kasa caters to budget-conscious consumers seeking simple, reliable smart lighting, while Philips Hue appeals to those willing to invest in premium features and a more comprehensive smart home ecosystem.
This split highlights a broader trend in the smart home market: consumers are no longer seeking a single “best” brand, but rather solutions that align with their individual needs and budgets
