WeMo Smart LED Bulb Review - Is It Worth It?
Evaluating the Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulbs
Achieving the convenience of remote access to your home's lighting is now attainable with a modest investment, some setup work, and careful consideration. This review will assess the Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulbs, outlining their benefits and drawbacks.
Initial Considerations
Adding networked light bulbs to your residence offers a modern approach to home automation. However, it's crucial to determine if the advantages justify the cost and effort involved.
We subjected the WeMo Smart LED Bulbs to rigorous testing to provide a comprehensive evaluation. This assessment will help you decide if integrating these bulbs into your smart home ecosystem is a worthwhile endeavor.
Performance and Features
The primary appeal of the Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulbs lies in their ability to be controlled remotely. This functionality is achieved through a dedicated mobile application and a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Users can adjust brightness, schedule on/off times, and even integrate the bulbs with other compatible smart home devices. This level of control enhances convenience and potentially contributes to energy savings.
Potential Drawbacks
While offering numerous advantages, the WeMo Smart LED Bulbs are not without their limitations. Initial setup can sometimes be complex, requiring a degree of technical proficiency.
Furthermore, reliance on a Wi-Fi network means that functionality is compromised during internet outages. Consider this dependency when evaluating the system's overall reliability.
Overall Assessment
The Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulbs present a viable solution for those seeking to introduce smart lighting into their homes. Their functionality and integration capabilities are noteworthy.
However, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the cost, setup complexity, and reliance on a consistent Wi-Fi connection before making a purchase decision.
Introducing the WeMo Smart LED Bulbs
Belkin initially introduced their WeMo line of home automation products in 2012. This line now encompasses a diverse range of devices, including networked wall switches, power outlets, security cameras, and motion sensors.
Furthermore, the WeMo ecosystem extends to appliances like crock pots and humidifiers. The Smart LED Bulbs represent a more recent addition, bringing networked LED lighting into the WeMo product family.
Bulb Design and Specifications
These bulbs feature a standard A19 shape, mirroring traditional incandescent bulbs and sharing a common aesthetic with many LED alternatives. They consist of an opaque base containing the electronics and a smaller dome housing the LED component.
Currently, the bulbs are available as a 60-watt equivalent, consuming only 10 watts of power. They produce 800 lumens of illumination, with a warm white color temperature around 3,000K. The projected lifespan is an impressive 23 years, assuming an average of 3 hours of daily use.
However, the key feature—and the reason for the higher cost—is the bulb’s intelligent functionality.
Connectivity and Networking
Like other WeMo products, the Smart LED Bulbs connect to your local network and the internet through the WeMo Link module. The bulbs utilize the ZigBee low-power mesh networking standard.
The Link serves as a bridge, translating the ZigBee mesh network to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This allows for seamless integration and control.
Remote Control and Automation
Through the dedicated mobile application, users can remotely control the bulbs. Functions include turning them on and off, setting timers, and utilizing triggers based on events like sunrise and sunset.
Remote access via the internet enables control of the lights even when away from home.
Pricing and Availability
Individual bulbs are available for purchase at $29.99, allowing expansion of an existing WeMo system. For those new to WeMo, a starter kit is offered for $99.99.
This kit includes the WeMo Link module and two smart bulbs, providing a complete entry point into the system.
The following sections will detail the installation process, mobile interface usage, and an overall assessment of the smart bulb experience.
Installing and Configuring the WeMo System
The installation process for the Link module and the bulbs is remarkably simple. Detailed instructions are conveniently provided on the card included within the product packaging.
Should the original packaging be unavailable, the Android or iOS application offers clear, step-by-step guidance for all products within the WeMo range, including the smart bulbs.
Setting Up the Hardware
Begin by screwing the bulbs into standard light sockets and switching them on. It’s crucial they remain powered during configuration. If connected to a wall-switched fixture, advise others not to operate the switch until setup is complete.
Next, plug in the WeMo Link module. While it doesn’t need to be directly beside the bulbs, position it centrally within the area of use and within range of your Wi-Fi router.
During setup, the Link module will blink green. This LED illumination is limited to the configuration phase or when system issues arise; it remains off during normal operation.
Software Installation and Network Connection
With both the bulbs and Link powered, install the WeMo application on your smartphone. The Android version can be downloaded here, and the iOS version here. The interface and process are consistent across both platforms.
Before launching the application, access your device’s Wi-Fi settings. A temporary Wi-Fi access point, labeled similarly to WeMo.Link.XXX, will appear.
Connect to this temporary access point and then launch the WeMo application. It will automatically initiate a connection to your primary Wi-Fi network.
You will be prompted to select your network and enter the security credentials. A firmware update may then begin, which can take a considerable amount of time. Belkin acknowledges this potential delay, even suggesting engaging in activities like playing games during the update.
Device Detection and Finalization
Following the firmware update, the system will scan for WeMo devices within range of the Link module.
Detected devices can then be selected and added to the Link module. The bulbs will blink to confirm a successful connection.
Troubleshooting Tips
There are a few important troubleshooting steps not explicitly detailed in the included documentation. If the Link module fails to detect all or any of your bulbs, a reset of both the module and the bulbs is necessary.
To reset the Link module, press and hold the button on its underside while simultaneously unplugging and replugging the device for five seconds. Resetting the bulbs requires turning the connected light fixture on and off rapidly five times, at a pace of approximately one cycle every three seconds.
A dedicated pinhole reset button, as found on many electronic devices, would be a more user-friendly solution than this on/off cycling method.
Utilizing the Smart Bulbs
Operating these light bulbs encompasses everything from simple on/off switching and brightness adjustments via the manual app interface to establishing in-app rules and configuring IFTTT recipes for more intricate lighting system interactions.
A fundamental aspect to grasp when employing these bulbs is their reliance on consistent power supply to the socket. While Belkin offers smart wall switches and outlet switches within the WeMo line, the bulbs themselves lack the capability to govern the wiring circuit they’re connected to. Consequently, if the lamp or wall switch is physically turned off, the functionality of the networked smart bulb is interrupted.
It’s important to acknowledge that this isn’t a defect of the Belkin Smart LED Bulb or the WeMo system, but rather a widespread issue within the smart bulb industry. Most smart lighting solutions aren't yet capable of overriding conventional household wiring.
However, when utilized as intended – controlled by the Link module and mobile application – they perform reliably. The mobile application’s interface is user-friendly, and once a routine or schedule is programmed, it’s stored within the Link module.
This ensures execution at the designated time, or in response to a specific trigger, regardless of your smartphone’s presence.
While direct manual control of the bulbs is convenient for immediate adjustments, the true potential of these smart bulbs is unlocked through the "Rules" section and, for advanced users, IFTTT programming.
The rules menu allows for the creation of automated timers, based on the clock or sunrise/sunset cycles. These can be further customized based on the day of the week.
Auto-off timers can also be established, automatically switching off the bulb after a period of inactivity. Furthermore, integrating the bulbs and Link module with the Belkin WeMo Motion Sensor/Switch package enables triggering light-related actions via the motion sensor.
The recent addition of IFTTT support for the Smart LED Bulbs provides the ability to utilize existing or create custom IFTTT recipes for bulb control. More information on IFTTT can be found here, with specific WeMo setup instructions available here.
Existing recipes can also be explored here to see how others are leveraging IFTTT with the WeMo system. It’s worth noting that, at the time of this review, the IFTTT support is relatively new, resulting in a limited number of available recipes. However, examining other WeMo recipes can provide valuable insight into its functionality.
Initial Impressions of the Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulb Kit
Following installation, configuration, and practical use of the bulbs, a comprehensive assessment of the Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulb kit has been conducted.
Setup and Configuration
The initial setup process was straightforward and relatively quick. Connecting the WeMo bulbs to the home network proved to be uncomplicated, requiring minimal technical expertise.
The accompanying mobile application facilitates intuitive control and customization of the bulbs’ settings.
Performance and Features
The smart LED bulbs offer a range of features, including dimming, scheduling, and remote control via the WeMo app.
Color customization options are available, allowing users to adjust the ambiance of their living spaces.
- Dimming functionality provides granular control over brightness levels.
- Scheduling allows for automated on/off times.
- Remote access enables control from anywhere with an internet connection.
Areas for Improvement
While generally positive, some aspects of the WeMo system could benefit from refinement.
Integration with other smart home platforms is currently limited, potentially restricting compatibility for users with diverse ecosystems.
Occasional connectivity issues were observed, though these were infrequent and typically resolved quickly.
Overall Assessment
The Belkin WeMo Smart LED Bulb kit delivers a compelling smart lighting solution.
Its ease of use, coupled with a robust feature set, makes it an attractive option for those seeking to automate and personalize their home lighting.
Despite minor drawbacks, the kit represents a solid investment for individuals interested in embracing smart home technology.
Key Advantages
The classic bulb form factor ensures compatibility with existing fixtures, eliminating concerns about bulb-specific shades or positioning.
Provided the setup guide is followed sequentially, the installation process is remarkably straightforward.
The accompanying application control panel boasts a refined design and offers an intuitive user experience.
Advanced Scheduling & Automation
Location-based sunrise and sunset illumination functions, alongside the fade-in and fade-out timers, operate with a high degree of accuracy.
Grouping multiple bulbs is a simple process, allowing for synchronized control through the app or the creation of unified schedules.
Support for IFTTT recipes has been implemented, though activation by Belkin was initially delayed, and became available shortly before this evaluation.
This integration expands the possibilities for automated control and connectivity with other smart home devices.
Drawbacks and Limitations
Despite recent adjustments, the initial cost of the kit and its accompanying bulbs remains marginally higher when contrasted with alternative systems such as the Philips Hue Lux.
Control and Accessibility
Operation of the lighting system is exclusively managed through a smartphone application; a dedicated physical switch is not included.
Unlike some competitors, such as the Google Nest system, this product lacks a remote web interface for control and monitoring.
Technical Issues
The procedure for resetting the system, though not consistently required, is characterized by inadequate documentation and a complex implementation.
Successfully resetting the device can prove challenging due to the lack of clear instructions.
- Price Sensitivity: The cost, while reduced, is still a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
- App Dependence: Control is entirely reliant on the smartphone application.
- Remote Access: A web-based interface for remote management is absent.
- Reset Complexity: The reset process is poorly explained and difficult to execute.
Final Assessment
Installation and operation of the bulbs presented no challenges. The most demanding aspect of evaluating the WeMo Smart LED Bulbs was formulating a conclusive assessment after the testing period. Given the nascent stage of smart bulb technology and the ongoing evolution of the market, a general recommendation for smart bulbs is difficult to issue unless consumers are fully prepared to embrace the smart home concept and invest as early adopters.
The WeMo Smart Bulbs functioned precisely as specified. The accompanying mobile application offered a seamless and intuitive user experience. Notably, the IFTTT integration, initially absent during our initial testing phase, was implemented during the review process.
However, a strong recommendation is primarily suitable for those already invested in the WeMo ecosystem, seeking effortless integration. Alternatively, a specific application, such as creating a customized sunrise alarm clock at a lower cost than commercially available options, justifies their use. Despite their user-friendliness, the WeMo Smart LED system has inherent limitations; the WeMo Link Hub, while capable of supporting other ZigBee lights (unofficially), features a higher price point compared to bulbs with similar functionality, and WeMo currently lacks a broader range of lighting solutions.
The product performed satisfactorily as a standalone item, despite minor issues like requiring a power cycle to reset the bulbs. Within the broader smart bulb landscape, however, the WeMo Smart LED Bulb system finds it challenging to surpass competitors such as Philips Hue (regarding adaptability) and GE Link and Cree Smart Bulb (concerning cost-effectiveness).