Not sure if it’s possible to control your lights through a mobile device? If yes, then you might be new to home automation systems. But if you are already familiar with the automation technology, you probably want to learn more about the best phone controlled lights on the market.
All the same, we’ve written this piece to show you two ways to control your light via smartphone and as well recommend the best products on the market. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Smart switches
If you want your lights controlled through a mobile app, the first option to look into is smart light switches. A smart wall switch lets you control whatever that connects to the electrical outlet through it.
These devices serve as a direct replacement for the traditional built-in switches. Though both are fitted to the same port, smart switches offer advanced features than the old switches. This allows you to control and automate the connected light fixtures.
You can, for example, use voice command to turn on or off the lights, create time-based schedules, set scenes, and more.
Most importantly, smart switches offer smartphone control. This requires the switch to communicate with your home network connection via a built-in Wi-Fi radio or a hub. But most older smart switches, however, use Bluetooth radio for such connection.
The features you get to enjoy depends on the option that you choose. Wi-Fi-enabled switches that connect to the home internet through a hub can interact with other smart devices in the home. These switches also let you control them from anywhere as long as you are connected to the internet.
However, smart switches that use only Bluetooth radio are limited in terms of functions and range. Your mobile device must be in range to perform limited operations, such as turning off and on your lights.
Smart Bulbs
The second option is smart light bulbs, which can also be controlled via smartphone. While smart switches allow you to control connected light fixtures indirectly, smart bulbs offer direct control over a light option without using any switch. Most of these phone controlled lights are connected via a hub, which converts the signal from a communication standard called Zigbee to that of the home Wi-Fi network.
Some smart bulbs, however, have built-in Wi-Fi radios. This means they can communicate with your smartphone without a hub and the Zigbee communication protocol.
Older smart bulbs that rely only on Bluetooth connection are limited in functions. While they can be controlled via a dedicated application, the mobile app doesn’t offer more advanced features.
All Bluetooth powered smart bulbs are, however, limited by distance. For the smartphone control feature to work, you have to be within range. Otherwise, it won’t work.
Now, let’s look at some of the products on the market that work best for lights.
Braumm Smart Light Switch
This Braumm smart light switch lets you smarten up your traditional ceiling fans and light fixtures. It is designed to be wired directly to your ceiling fixtures. And it makes for a cost-effective solution if you don’t want the costs of replacing your existing light fixtures. Rather, this wall switch turns any lights connected to it smart.
The companion Braumm mobile app is available for both iOS and Android users. The app allows you to create scenes, which can be used to control other multiple Braumm devices installed on your home. Through the app, you can also create automation. With this feature, you can program the light fixtures connected to the switch to turn on at sunrise, based on temperature or other weather conditions. You can also do more such as viewing weather forecast, humidity, and more.
The smart switch also features Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control. But the switch doesn’t connect with the other smart home devices.
The switch can be installed directly to your ceiling fans and light fixtures. Installing the device is easy if you have what it takes to install light fixtures. But let a professional handle the job if you’re not comfortable with electrical installations.
TP-Link Kasa Filament Smart Bulb KL50
The TP-Link Kasa Filament Smart Bulb KL50 is a light bulb with an E26 base that screws into any standard fixture. It offers both voice and app control. The smart bulb also features a built-in Wi-Fi radio that helps connect the bulb to your smartphone without a hub.
The TP-Link Kasa Filament Smart Bulb KL50 also supports Google and Amazon voice control assistants. Besides, it can work with third-party smart devices such as security cameras, video doorbells, and motion sensors through the IFTTT applets.
The mobile application is available on iOS and Android devices. Through its dashboard, the app lets you view the bulbs and other Kasa devices installed in your home. The app also allows you to turn on and off the bulb, change the bulb’s brightness, create scenes to control more than one device with a tap of a button. You also get a report on the energy usage of the bulb.
Unlike the smart switch, installing the Link Kasa Filament Smart Bulb KL50 is easy and straightforward. Just download the app, create an account, and follow the on-screen instructions for guidance on how to connect properly and set up the bulb.
For a smart bulb that supports both app and voice control and works for your light fixtures and lamp, the Kasa TP-Link bulb is an excellent option. The bulb also works with other smart devices in your home, making it a choice for a smart home.
Wrap Up
With many phone controlled lights options out there, choosing either smart switches or bulbs depends on your existing lighting setup and needs. If you want to eliminate the cost of replacing your entire household lighting, then a smart switch would be the best option. For more advanced control, you may want to go for a smart bulb that can also be connected to other smart home devices.
If you want more smart light options that can be controlled with your phone, be sure to visit our store for the best products.
