Best Smart Outdoor Floodlights for Security & Ambiance: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics & 18th Edition Electrician
As the nights draw in, good outdoor lighting becomes essential—especially up here in the North. But the days of leaving a 500W halogen bulb burning all night are long gone. Modern smart floodlights offer better security, massive energy savings, and the ability to control everything from your phone (or a remote).
However, installing smart tech on Leeds' solid brick or stone homes brings its own challenges. Wi-Fi signals struggle to penetrate thick Victorian walls, and cheap plastic fittings often crack after one frost. I've been called out to plenty of homes where a DIY floodlight installation has caused nuisance tripping for the whole house.
In this review, I'm looking at three distinct options: a budget-friendly remote option for simple colour, a high-end integrated security camera system, and a clever plug-and-play solution that bypasses the need for complex wiring.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Wi-Fi Range"
"Manufacturers claim their devices connect easily to your home network from the garden."
If you live in a Leeds back-to-back or a stone cottage, Wi-Fi rarely penetrates external walls well. You might need a mesh booster or a chime extender near the door to get a reliable signal.
The Spec: "IP65/IP66 Waterproofing"
"Rated to withstand dust and water jets."
The rating is fine, but the failure point is usually the cable entry. If you don't use a proper Stuffing Gland or drip loop when installing, water will track down the cable and into the unit, tripping your electrics.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
EXTRASTAR 20W Smart RGB Led Floodlight Indoor or Outdoor (2 Pack)
EXTRASTAR
Let's be clear: at this price, these are 'smart' in the sense they use a remote, not an app. However, getting two IP65 rated floodlights for under £12 is incredible value if you just want to light up a garden path or add some colour for a BBQ.
The Good
- Incredibly cheap for a twin pack (£6 per unit)
- IP65 rating is sufficient for UK rain
- 16 colours and dimmable - great for atmosphere
The Bad
- Not truly 'smart' - no app or Alexa integration
- IR remote requires line-of-sight
- Cable leads are often quite short, requiring a junction box nearby
Installer Tip:
These come with short cables. Do not use 'choc block' tape joints outdoors. You MUST use a proper IP66 rated junction box to join this to your supply cable, or you will get water ingress and nuisance tripping within months.
Priced at £11.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonTapo C720 Floodlight Outdoor Security Camera, 2800-Lumen
Tapo
This is proper kit. TP-Link's Tapo range is reliable, and combining a 2800-lumen floodlight with a 2K camera makes sense for security. It needs hardwiring, which means it's a permanent, professional solution rather than a quick DIY fix.
The Good
- Excellent build quality and brightness
- AI detection reduces false alarms from cats/foxes
- Local storage option means no mandatory subscription fees
The Bad
- Requires competent installation (mains wiring)
- Wi-Fi signal needs to be strong at the installation point
- More expensive upfront cost
Installer Tip:
Before drilling holes in your brickwork, check your Wi-Fi signal at the exact spot with your phone. If it's weak, the camera will lag. Also, isolate the circuit at the consumer unit before touching any wires—safety first.
Priced at £89.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonDUSKTEC LED RGB Floodlight Outdoor 80W with App Control
DUSKTEC
This solves two major problems: complicated wiring and weak Wi-Fi. It uses Bluetooth (mesh) for control, so you don't need a hub, and it comes with a plug, making it ideal for renters or anyone who doesn't want to drill through walls.
The Good
- No wiring required - just plug it in
- Bluetooth control avoids Wi-Fi range issues
- Timer functions and music sync via App
The Bad
- Bluetooth range is limited (must be near to control)
- Cannot control remotely (away from home)
- Corded design means you need an outdoor socket handy
Installer Tip:
If you're using this with an outdoor extension lead, ensure the connection point is housed in a 'dry box' or proper weatherproof housing. Just because the light is waterproof doesn't mean the plug connection is.
Priced at £32.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician to install smart floodlights?
Why do my outdoor smart lights keep going offline?
What is the difference between IP65 and IP66?
Can I use smart floodlights for general garden lighting?
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