Smart lighting has become one of the most transformative elements of the modern connected home. Whether you’re setting the mood for a movie night, brightening an outdoor pathway, or syncing lights with your favorite playlist, the newest generation of smart light systems offers more personalization and interoperability than ever before. (Note: This article updates our 2023 edition.)

In 2025, the arrival of Matter-enabled devices and wider Thread adoption make setup faster and cross-platform compatibility nearly seamless. With options for every budget and ecosystem, you can find lighting that works perfectly with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit — or even runs independently through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth apps.

Below are eight of the best smart lighting systems to illuminate and elevate your space, followed by three emerging brands to watch.

Philips Hue - Best All Around Smart Lighting System

Philips Hue

Philips Hue Starter Kit

Ecosystem Compatibility: Matter, Zigbee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Bridge; works with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings.
Mobile OS: iOS and Android.
Connection Type: Zigbee (with Bridge), Bluetooth (direct control), Thread (new Matter bulbs).
Alternative Power Sources: Wired indoor bulbs and fixtures, low-voltage outdoor path lights, and solar options in select models.
Key Features: Adaptive lighting, scene syncing with music and movies, multicolor gradient effects, scheduling, motion sensors.
Product Lineup: A19 and BR30 bulbs, PAR38 outdoor spotlights, gradient light strips, wall light panels, ceiling fixtures, outdoor path lighting, smart TV backlighting (Hue Play and Hue Sync Box).
Why We Like It: Philips Hue remains the benchmark for reliability, rich color quality, and extensive ecosystem support — ideal for users who want a mature, premium platform that just works.

Visit Philips Hue Amazon Store for pricing.

Up-and-Coming Smart Lighting Systems to Watch:

Linkind

Matter-compatible Zigbee and Wi-Fi lights with Alexa and Google Home support. The lineup includes bulbs, light strips, and solar outdoor lighting. Affordable and growing fast among budget-minded homeowners.

Linkind Matter Smart Light Bulb, WiFi Smart Bulbs, Work with Apple Home, Siri, Alexa, Google, SmartThings, RGBTW Color Changing Bulbs Mood Lighting, Music Sync, A19 E26 60W, 2.4Ghz WiFi 6 Pack

List Price: $42.99

New From: $42.99 in Stock

Used From: $32.24 in Stock

U-tec

Known for smart locks, U-tec’s new U-Smart lighting series connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and supports Alexa and Google Home. Ideal for cohesive smart home setups using the U-tec ecosystem.

U-tec Smart Light Bulbs, 1100 Lumen, 90+CRI WiFi Mesh & Bluetooth Color Changing A19 Light Bulb, 16 Million DIY Colors RGB Light Bulbs, Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant Home App, 2 Pack

List Price: $31.99

New From: $19.99 ($10.00 / count) in Stock

Meross

Reliable Wi-Fi smart lights compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. The brand offers bulbs, light strips, and garage or outdoor lighting. Select models now support Matter for better integration.

meross Smart RGBWW WiFi LED Bulbs, Apple HomeKit Compatible, 60W Equivalent, 900 Lumens, Multicolor, 4 Pack

List Price: $49.99

New From: $49.99 ($12.50 / count) in Stock

Conclusion

From immersive gradient effects to solar-powered outdoor lighting, today’s smart lighting systems offer endless ways to transform your home's ambiance. As Matter continues to standardize device communication, lighting brands are focusing on seamless compatibility and smarter control — regardless of platform or assistant.

Use GearBrain’s Compatibility Find Engine to see which smart lights work with your existing smart home, voice assistant, and smartphone.

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