Best Philips Hue Lightbulbs

A19 Starter Kit, 3rd Generation

Philip's 464479 starter kit is an ideal match for many of the most popular home controllers on the market. Individual bulbs may seem expensive, but the technology is top notch. Deep color palette and variable white temperatures.

Deep, vivid colors and several white hues to choose. Integrates well with most home controllers. Steady "on" maintains reliable contact with hub and apps.

Some lag time reported between command and actual activation. May not remember last settings before shutoff. Only equivalent to a 60 watt bulb, not very bright.

Two A19 bulbs and bridge (hub)

The 455287 is a less expensive starter kit than the 464479, but only includes two smart bulbs. Has many great features, but the connection is not completely wi-fi or wireless. We recommend it for common area use, like a den or living room.

Noticeably brighter than earlier generation bulbs. Can be dimmed even in non-dimmer sockets. With an app, bulbs can brighten or dim over time, like a sleep cycle.

Original kit only contains two bulbs, others purchased separately. Only produces white hues, no colors.Some systems require hard wiring the hub.

Go Light (works with Amazon Alexa)

Philips' Go Light is more on the artistic than functional side, but it makes an excellent nightlight, side lamp or accent light. Hue colors are deep and vivid, and can be changed remotely through an app.

Aesthetically pleasing "bowl of light," including a candle setting. Creates customizable back lighting for TV viewing. Wake-up alarm feature slowly brightens lamp.

Onboard battery has short lifespan. Cord placement creates unstable base. Programming custom effects can be a challenge.

65W Equivalent Single LED Bulb

For those with specific uses for a HUE smart bulb, such as TV backlighting, the 432690 is a great choice. It is easily recognizable by most systems. Price point may be too high for a regular LED bulb replacement, however.

Works well with an existing Philips hub and app. Light temperatures run the entire cool/warm spectrum. Can be set to change back lighting during TV viewing.

On the expensive side, not for whole house bulb replacement. First generation, does not reproduce greens well. Must be kept "on" for maximum performance.

Best Bang for the Buck

A19 Bulb, 3rd Generation

The 464503 HUE bulb is 3rd generation, so many of the compatibility and color issues have been addressed. We like its ability to work independently or in a programmable set.

3rd generation, produces stronger blues and greens. Capable of creating specific lighting scenes for different rooms and times. Compatible with numerous home controller systems.