Best Matter Smart Bulbs for Home Automation: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics
For years, smart lighting has been a headache of incompatible apps. You had one app for your hallway, another for the kitchen, and none of them spoke to each other. If you live in one of Leeds' older terraces with thick brick walls, getting a signal to them all was an even bigger nightmare.
Matter has finally standardises this. It allows Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa to control the same devices seamlessly. But as an electrician, I still see homeowners buying dangerous, non-compliant cheap imports that pose a fire risk. Just because it's 'smart' doesn't mean it's safe.
In this review, I've tested three Matter-compatible bulbs available in the UK. I've looked at a budget-friendly B22 option for standard pendants, a premium Thread-enabled bulb that solves connectivity issues in solid-wall homes, and an E27 screw-in option for your lamps.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Matter 'Compatible'"
"It works seamlessly with any smart home system out of the box."
To use Matter, you actually need a 'Matter Controller' (like a newer Echo Dot, Apple HomePod, or Apple TV) acting as the hub. Without one, these are just standard Bluetooth or WiFi bulbs.
The Spec: "15-Year Lifespan"
"LEDs last almost forever compared to tungsten bulbs."
The LED chip might last, but the WiFi radio and electronics often fail first due to heat, especially if fitted in enclosed glass shades. Ventilation is key.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Govee RGBWW Smart Bulb, B22 Energy Saving WiFi Alexa Light Bulbs (2 Pack)
Govee
For under a tenner for two bulbs, this is an incredibly affordable way to start upgrading a property. They use a B22 bayonet fitting, which is the standard for 90% of ceiling roses in Leeds homes, so you won't need new fixtures.
The Good
- Fantastic value at roughly £5 per bulb
- Direct WiFi connection (no expensive separate hub needed)
- Standard UK B22 fitting suits most existing pendants
The Bad
- Relies on 2.4GHz WiFi - can struggle in large stone houses
- Not as responsive as Thread-enabled devices
Installer Tip:
Never install these on a circuit that already has a dimmer switch at the wall. The electronics inside the bulb conflict with the dimmer, causing strobing and eventually destroying the bulb. Swap the wall switch for a standard rocker first.
Priced at £9.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonNanoleaf Matter Essentials B22 LED Bulbs, Pack of 3 RGBW
Nanoleaf
This is the professional's choice. Unlike basic WiFi bulbs, these use 'Thread' technology. This creates a mesh network where each bulb boosts the signal for the next—absolutely essential for thick-walled Victorian properties where WiFi usually dies in the back bedrooms.
The Good
- Uses 'Thread' mesh networking for superior reliability
- Doesn't clog up your home WiFi router
- Lightning-fast response times compared to WiFi bulbs
The Bad
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires a Thread border router (like HomePod mini or Apple TV 4K) for full benefits
Installer Tip:
If you are struggling with 'unreachable' devices in a large house, these are the solution. The more you add, the stronger the network gets because they talk to each other, not just the router.
Priced at £34.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonLinkind Matter Smart RGBTW Bulb, E27 Smart Bulb (2 Pack)
Linkind
While ceiling lights in the UK are usually B22, your floor lamps and table lamps are likely E27 (screw). This pack from Linkind fills that gap perfectly. It also offers a specific 'Wake-Up' mode that mimics sunrise, which is a brilliant feature for our dark northern winters.
The Good
- E27 fitting is perfect for IKEA lamps and modern fixtures
- Privacy-focused (local control via Matter)
- Music sync feature is great for student rentals or entertainment rooms
The Bad
- No Thread support (WiFi only)
- Base is slightly bulky, might show above small lamp shades
Installer Tip:
If you're using these in metal lamps, be aware that the metal shade can sometimes block the WiFi signal. Ensure your router isn't too far away, or opt for a mesh WiFi system to boost coverage.
Priced at £13.59 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Does fitting smart bulbs require an electrician?
What is the difference between B22 and E27?
Will these work if my internet goes down?
Why do my smart bulbs flicker?
Can I use smart bulbs in the bathroom?
Do I need a hub for Matter bulbs?
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