SMART BULBS

PHILIPS HUE

From $149, philips-hue.com

Hue dominates the smart lighting sector for good reason: it’s a superb system with the widest range of bulbs and a simple, useful app. Rivals may be cheaper but they can’t compete with

Hue’s variety.

LIFX

From $19, lifx.com

If you fancy a Hue system but don’t want to spend so much, LIFX has a strong product range and integrates with your favourite personal digital assistant. Philips still wins, but only just.

NANOLEAF ESSENTIALS

From $29, nanoleaf.me

A line of bargainpriced bulbs and light strips that support Thread, an upcoming protocol a bit like Zigbee.

We love the faceted look, but they’re only available in E27 or

B22 fittings.

IKEA TRÅDFRI

From $39, ikea.com

Ikea’s Zigbeecompatible system doesn’t have the range of Hue, but if you prize control over colour options it’s stellar value for money and has some great controllers and dimmers.