Best Smart Light Strips (2025)
LED light strips add accent lighting behind TVs, under cabinets, or around rooms. Here are the best options.
For bulb recommendations, see our guide to Best Smart Light Bulbs.
Top Smart Light Strips
| Light Strip | Length | Colors | Hub | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philips Hue Gradient | 6.6ft | Multi-zone gradient | Hue Bridge | $180 |
| Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus | 6.6ft | Single color | Hue Bridge | $80 |
| LIFX Lightstrip | 6.6ft | 8 zones | No hub | $90 |
| Govee RGBIC | 16.4ft | Multi-segment | No hub | $30 |
| Nanoleaf Essentials | 6.6ft | Single color + Matter | No hub | $50 |
Key Features Explained
RGBIC / Multi-Zone
Different sections display different colors simultaneously. Create gradient effects, rainbows, or flowing patterns.
Single Color
Entire strip shows one color at a time. Simpler, often cheaper.
Music Sync
Strips react to audio input. Great for parties, gaming, or immersive experiences.
Best Premium: Philips Hue Gradient
The Hue Gradient displays multiple colors across a single strip—perfect for TV backlighting.
- Zones: Multiple color zones across strip
- Use case: TV ambient lighting (syncs with screen colors)
- Hub: Requires Hue Bridge
- Price: $180 (75″ TV version)
Combined with Hue Sync Box, it creates theater-like ambient lighting that matches your TV content.
Pros
- Best gradient effect for TV
- Hue ecosystem integration
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Very expensive
- Requires Hue Bridge
- Sync Box extra ($230)
Best Value: Govee RGBIC
Govee offers multi-segment color at a fraction of premium prices.
- Length: 16.4ft (extendable)
- Zones: Multi-segment RGBIC
- Features: Music sync, app control, voice control
- Hub: No
- Price: $30-50
Pros
- Incredible value ($30)
- Multi-segment colors
- Music sync via mic
- Long length (16.4ft)
Cons
- Lower quality than Hue/LIFX
- App less polished
- WiFi-dependent
Best No-Hub Premium: LIFX Lightstrip
Premium quality without needing a hub.
- Zones: 8 addressable zones
- Brightness: 1,400 lumens
- Hub: No (WiFi direct)
- Price: $90
Common Use Cases
| Use Case | Best Strip |
|---|---|
| TV backlighting (premium) | Philips Hue Gradient |
| TV backlighting (budget) | Govee RGBIC TV |
| Under cabinet lighting | Philips Hue Lightstrip |
| Room accent (budget) | Govee RGBIC |
| Gaming setup | LIFX or Govee |
Installation Tips
- Measure first: Strips cut one-way; measure carefully
- Clean surface: Adhesive works best on clean, dry surfaces
- Power location: Plan where the controller/plug will go
- Aluminum channels: Optional—improve heat dissipation and appearance
Verdict
Best Premium: Philips Hue Gradient for TV backlighting. Expensive but unmatched ambiance.
Best Value: Govee RGBIC at $30—multi-segment colors, music sync, and 16ft length.
For bulb recommendations, see: Best Smart Light Bulbs.