Some of the bulbs on this list are just white, while others have the ability to take on any color of the rainbow. Color is a fun way to add atmosphere to your home, but often results in a pricier bulb.
Most of the smart bulbs we review are marketed as equivalent to 60-watt incandescent models, which sounds self-explanatory, but some bulbs are brighter than others. To see just how bright a light is, you need to look at the lumens it puts out (listed in the table below): the more lumens, the brighter the light.
Also keep in mind that bulbs can disperse light in a narrow beam or a wide swath, so make sure to read the reviews to find out how each one works. If you need some extra light for reading, puzzles, or selfies, the $29.99 Wyze Floor Lamp is an excellent option. It forms a narrow, 23-degree light beam for even illumination, and supports Bluetooth, so you can turn it on and off, adjust the brightness, and create lighting schedules from your phone.
Another factor to keep in mind is color temperature. Higher temperatures, like 8,500K, look like harsh office lighting, which is fine for staying awake or working. Lower temperatures, like 2,500K, translate to a cozy, warm glow that's perfect for relaxing.
If you're sick of tripping over shoes and dog toys during late-night bathroom trips, the Wyze Night Light might be the perfect solution. Each $20 box comes with three motion-triggered warm white wall lights you can use individually in different rooms, or pair together so they all light up when one detects motion.
