Key Takeaways
1. The Philips Hue Essential Light Strip is the entry-level model in the new lineup of smart strip lights, priced at €59.99 for the 5 m version in Europe.
2. It offers both white and colored lighting with a color temperature range from 2,200 K to 6,500 K, along with various preset scenes in the Philips app.
3. The light strip features dimmable color gradient LEDs with an expected lifespan of about 15,000 hours and requires a Hue Bridge for advanced smart home integration.
4. Compared to other models, it has a dimming limit of 2% and lacks the advanced color blending technology found in higher-end options.
5. The Essential Light Strip cannot be extended but can be cut to the desired length; availability in certain countries like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany is still uncertain.
The Philips Hue Essential Light Strip has just been released in Europe, joining a new set of products that are taking over the brand’s previous strip light offerings.
Entry-Level Smart Lighting
As the basic model in Philips Hue’s fresh lineup of smart strip lights, the Essential Light Strip is now available after its introduction in the US. You can find the 5 m (16 ft) version at several retailers in Europe, such as OBI in Germany, where it sells for €59.99.
Lighting Features and App Compatibility
The Essential Light Strip offers both white and colored lighting options, with a color temperature range spanning from 2,200 K to 6,500 K. Users can pick from various preset scenes in the Philips app, designed for different moods and celebrations. The dimmable color gradient light features LEDs that are expected to last about 15,000 hours. By linking it to a Hue Bridge (currently priced at $98.99 on Amazon), you unlock additional functions, including broader smart home integration thanks to Matter support.
Comparison with Other Models
When compared to other strips in Philip’s latest Hue collection, the Essential version has a dimming limit of only 2%, while other models can dim down to 0.2%. Additionally, the Essential model lacks the more sophisticated color blending technology found in the higher-end products. Although it cannot be extended, users have the option to cut the strip to their preferred length. It remains uncertain when the Philips Hue Essential Light Strip will officially arrive in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany.
Philips Hue, OBI, Smarthome Assistent
Source:
Link