The market has had an explosion of smart bulbs, switches and lamps over the past decade. Brands such as Philips Hue, Lifx, Sylvania and others are chasing each other in the competition. Unlimited and attractive features are available for the consumers to choose from.
There are pros and cons, and which an ordinary consumer might just overlook because of the overwhelming choices available. As subtle as it could get, one has to be smart enough to land on a right choice. Price, ease of installation, power consumption, compatibility with existing wiring, etc. are key factors for consideration. And, you also need to keep in mind your future expansion in acquiring further smart lights.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.15″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_gallery fullwidth=”on” child_mix_blend_mode=”hard-light” _builder_version=”3.15″ gallery_ids=”2217,2197,2256,2191″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”1px” title_text_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” pagination_font=”||||||||” pagination_font_size=”2px”][/et_pb_gallery][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]BULB VS LAMPÂ
Comparing the features, there is not a huge gap in what both of these devices are capable of. The bulb essentially has the capability to fit in an ordinary light fixture. On the flip side, a smart lamp is simply a fancy item hosting a smart bulb or led. The lamp as it comes in attractive designs is often an expensive element. They may range anywhere from $120 to $350.
For a new property, it could be a choice to have smart lamps installed right from the beginning. Some of these lamps can fit seamlessly in the ceilings and enhance your decor. Some lamps come with weather protection as well, so they are reliable a choice for outdoor ambience. There are extensive designs available for use of smart lamps in the garden and on pathways.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.15″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_gallery fullwidth=”on” child_mix_blend_mode=”hard-light” _builder_version=”3.15″ gallery_ids=”2448,2450,2451″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”1px” title_text_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” pagination_font=”||||||||” pagination_font_size=”2px”][/et_pb_gallery][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]BULBS VS SWITCHES
A smart bulb is simply a bulb with added smart features which can be placed in a normal light fixture. And, a smart switch is an atypical switch connecting a lot of ordinary lights and controlling them in somewhat a smart fashion. Cost is an essential factor while choosing between these two devices. A smart bulb costs around $20 to $80 and a smart switch costs around $30 to $80.
But, it is critical here to observe the fact that a smart bulb is a standalone bulb and you might need a lot of them. On the other hand a smart switch is a single device controlling a group of normal or conventional bulbs. So, the price could be really hefty if a lot of smart bulbs are needed. But, these bulbs have their own advantages. The smart bulbs provide tremendous features such as different colours for different bulbs, natural light mimicking, light syncing with music/movie/game, etc. Smart switches enable enhanced control over the lights compared to conventional switches. But, they would surely not be providing all the features which are available in smart bulbs.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.15″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_gallery fullwidth=”on” child_mix_blend_mode=”hard-light” _builder_version=”3.15″ gallery_ids=”2452″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”1px” title_text_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” pagination_font=”||||||||” pagination_font_size=”2px”][/et_pb_gallery][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]LAMP VS SWITCH
Keeping the high cost of lamps in mind, switches controlling a group of conventional lamps could be a feasible option. But, smart lamps on the flip side; offer an array of features which can be very convenient and pleasing.
It is recommended that for a small property with a few light fixtures, lamps could fulfil the purpose. But, for a large property such as for offices, schools, etc. smart switches can be a considerable choice. However, for some of the switches to be installed a neutral wire may be needed. And, the arrangement of the existing wiring is a key factor to make lights controllable from the central point.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.15″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.15″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]EDITORâS REMARKS
Landing on a right choice is an important and critical decision. Price, power consumption, features, compatibility, etc. are key factors which should aid you in making an appropriate choice. Right choice and being able to foresee how your future ambience needs may change is no doubt a challenging process.
Most of the people at times end up having a combination. Arrangements of a few smart bulbs and lamps installed and some smart switches controlling conventional lights is definitely possible.
Anyway, you can simply come up with a solution by deciding on your ambience needs as per the following criteria:
(i) Small property or, 25 fixtures or less
If the property size is small or if there 25 fixtures or less, then having smart bulbs/lamps can be a good choice. Although, a little higher price is to be paid for these light than conventional bulbs/lamps. But, it is definitely worth it considering the extensive number of features that these lights provide. These lights can be used with specific instructions for each of them just by a touch through the smart application.
(ii) Large property or greater than 25 fixtures
For a large property or if there are greater than 25 fixtures, having smart switches can be a better option. Smart switch enables controlling a group of lights with a single switch, which could definitely save a lot of money. The downside will be that there will be limited features at hand as smart bulbs/lamps would not be used. For example, changing colour for conventional bulbs will not be possible. Other issue is the difficulty of installation, where an electrician may be needed to figure out neutral wire and wiring.
(iii) Indoors versus Outdoors
It is important to see that for what purpose you need a smart light for. Letâs say, if you want to make your living room feel cozy, you might consider having smart bulbs/lamps installed. And, for the areas like in corridors, kitchen, balcony you might just decide to go on with conventional bulbs. Â Or the other choice could be to have a smart switch controlling them for an added convenience.
For the outdoors it is a reasonable decision to install smart bulbs/lamps. The lamps are durable as they are made up of strong materials such as aluminum or steel. And, also host extensive features which could be desired for the outdoors. For example, being able to set-up time schedules and having a control on the lights when you are not around. Some higher end smart lamps also emit infrared light which aid security cameras for better visuals.
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