Lighting automation systems not only enhance the look and ambiance of your living space, but also add to convenience and safety. In this review, we will compare two leading light automation systems in the market today and tell you which one is the superior choice for your specific needs. This article will tell you everything you need to know about the Belkin WeMo vs Philips Hue, and which is a better buy for you. Keep reading to find out!
Belkin Wemo vs Philips Hue Comparison
Contents of the kit
Philips Hue Starter Kit
Belkin WeMo starter kit includes two light bulbs and the WeMo Link that is required to set up the system. In comparison, the Philips Hue includes three light bulbs and a bridge unit that is a separate unit essential to get the system up and running. Both the systems come with an Installation Guide, which is well-illustrate and simple to follow.
Set-up
Both systems albeit slightly different, are easy to install. WeMo requires connecting the link to Wi-Fi network and then follow the instructions as per the downloaded App. With Philips Hue, you need to connect the bridge physically to the router with the help of Ethernet cable, and to a power source. Once this is done, the system works magnificently. However, a few users have reported some issues with the installation that might take multiple attempts and also that there might be a need to pair the device repeatedly due to loss of connection. This is likely due to the wireless connection over rather than an actual, wired connection. No similar issues were faced with Philips Hue, and the systems have been reported to work seamlessly and with stability once installed.Light Bulbs
Both Belkin WeMo and Philips Hue starter kits come with LED light bulbs, which are equally good looking. With Belkin, you have the option of choosing the Edison or Bayonet screw fitting, which is lacking in Philips Hue. However, WeMo offers only A19 light bulbs as compared to the A19, BR30, GU10 or PAR16 light bulbs that Philips has to offer. Furthermore, the range of light bulb colors is severely limited with WeMo. It only offers the soft white bulb color. In stark contrast, Philips offers a range of white bulb settings that includes soft white, cool white and warm white; along with several color bulbs. WeMo does not offer the colored light bulbs. This makes Philips Hue much more customizable, not to mention fun.Light Quality
The WeMo wins in this department. Their light bulbs produce 800 lumens, which is comparable to the light emitted by a standard 60-watt bulb. The light bulbs of Philips Hue, on the other hand, have a maximum brightness of only around 600 lumens. Thus, you need more Philips light bulbs to create the light intensity that you might be used to. However, Philips has come out with the second generation of bulbs that do produce 800 lumens. Click here to shop Belkin Wemo Products Click here to shop Philips Hue ProductsEnergy Usage
The Belkin WeMo light bulbs producing 800 lumens consume more energy than the Philips Hue first generation bulbs. The energy consumption of the WeMo bulbs is almost more than a full watt than the Philips bulbs, which produce only 600 lumens.Apps
Both the lighting systems have apps that are free to download and available for Android and iOS both. The apps are fairly simple to use and customize. You can set up the systems to change light as per pre-set timers, according to the sunset/sunrise or your sleep cycle. You can control the brightness, colors or timings on more than 50 bulbs with a single bridge and app. You can control the bulbs individually or as a group depending on your needs and preferences. You can even create schedules for the lighting, which will then work automatically, even when you are not home. This gives the impression that you are home and adds a safety element. That being said, the Philips Hue app is considered more streamlined and easy to use as compared to the Belkin WeMo, despite the Philips having more options.IFTTT Support
Both Philips Hue and Belkin WeMo are compatible with IFTTT services (If This Then That). This enables you to sync your phone and have a lot of fun with your lights, ranging from changing color as per the stocks, your team win, etc. You can create your own IFTTT recipes, or use the ones already created by others and available on the apps. This gives you the freedom to use your lighting in any way you want, conveniently with no effort. However, customers love the ease of operating the Philips Hue system over the Belkin WeMo.Additional Features
The Philips Hue light bulbs are also compatible with Philips Ambilight TV, which can make your television viewing a completely mesmerizing and immersive experience. Additionally, the Philips Hue is compatible with more brands than the Belin WeMo making it an easier and more convenient option. Philips Hue is also compatible with the Apple home kit.Warranty
Both the Belkin WeMo and Philips Hue are protected with a 2-year warranty from their manufacturer. However, the life expectancy of both these bulbs is claimed to be much more than 2 years by their manufacturers.Summary
To summarize, although both lighting systems are efficient and are well recommended, the Philips Hue wins this head-to-head comparison in our opinion. With easier installation, availability of color bulbs and more customizable options, the Philips seems like a better choice. We noted that although Philips lighting system is more expensive as compared to the Belkin WeMo. However, considering the wider utility and more customizable options of Philips, this does not seem to be a detrimental factor. It should be noted that a sale could change the prices. We would definitely go for the Philips Hue for the lighting solution.