Smart light strips are one of the most versatile and affordable smart home upgrades available in the UK. They can transform kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms with flexible lighting that’s easy to install and simple to control. Whether you’re looking for under‑cabinet lighting to brighten worktops or TV backlighting to create a cosy atmosphere, smart LED strips offer convenience, energy savings, and modern style. In many UK kitchens, strip lights under cabinets make the worktops feel brighter and safer on dark winter evenings.
This guide explores the best smart light strips UK homeowners can buy, explains what features matter most, and compares top products to help you make the right choice.
✍️ Author Insight
When I first tried smart light strips in my UK flat, I realised Wi‑Fi coverage was patchy in certain corners, especially behind thick walls. This meant the app control sometimes lagged or failed. My workaround was adding a small Wi‑Fi extender near the kitchen, which instantly improved reliability. It’s a simple fix that makes smart lighting far more dependable in older UK housing layouts.
Why Smart Light Strips Are Worth It
Smart light strips go beyond traditional lighting solutions. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
- Flexible Installation: Stick them under cabinets, behind TVs, along shelves, or around mirrors.
- Voice Control: Use Alexa or Google Assistant to adjust brightness or colour hands‑free.
- App Scheduling: Automate lighting for evenings, mornings, or movie nights.
- Energy Efficiency: LED technology consumes far less power than halogen or incandescent bulbs.
- Mood & Ambience: Choose warm white for cosy evenings or vibrant colours for parties.
- Space Friendly: Perfect for small UK flats or older homes where natural light is limited.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing smart light strips in the UK, focus on:
- Compatibility: Works with Alexa, Google Home, or app control.
- Length & Flexibility: Short strips suit cabinets; longer rolls are ideal for TVs or feature walls.
- Colour Options: Tunable white or full RGB colour for ambience.
- Dimming & Scheduling: App control with timers and brightness adjustment.
- Adhesive Quality: Strong backing ensures strips stay in place.
- Waterproofing: Essential for kitchens, bathrooms, or damp areas.
- Extra Features: Music sync, scene modes, or integration with other smart devices.
Top Smart Light Strips UK (Alexa & App Controlled)
1. Amazon Basics Smart Light Strip (Tunable White & RGB Options)
- Features: Tunable white and RGB colour options, Alexa compatibility, app scheduling.
- Pros: Affordable, simple setup, reliable brand.
- Cons: Limited advanced features compared to premium models.
- Best For: Everyday use in kitchens or bedrooms where simple control is enough.
2. TP‑Link Tapo Smart Light Strip L900‑5
- Features: Multicolour RGB, app control, Alexa & Google Assistant compatibility, music sync.
- Pros: Strong brand reputation, vibrant colours, flexible installation.
- Cons: Slightly higher price, requires WiFi setup.
- Best For: TV backlighting or feature walls where colour ambience matters.
3. 10m Alexa LED Strip Lights, Waterproof WiFi RGB Colour Changing, Music Sync, App Control
- Features: 10m length, waterproof design, RGB colour changing, music sync, app control.
- Pros: Long strip suitable for larger installations, waterproof for kitchens or bathrooms.
- Cons: Adhesive may need reinforcement on textured surfaces.
- Best For: Large kitchens, entertainment setups, or damp environments.
4. LUXONIC 15m Alexa LED Strip Lights, WiFi RGB Colour Changing, Music Sync, App Control
👉 Amazon UK Link
- Features: 15m length, RGB colour changing, music sync, Alexa & app control.
- Pros: Extra‑long strip for whole rooms, vibrant colours, strong app features.
- Cons: Requires careful installation due to length, higher price.
- Best For: Large living rooms, feature walls, or creative installations.
Comparison Table
| Product | Length | Control | Colour Options | Extra Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Smart Light Strip | 5m | Alexa, App | Tunable white + RGB | Affordable | Kitchens, bedrooms |
| TP‑Link Tapo L900‑5 | 5m | Alexa, Google, App | Full RGB | Music sync | TVs, feature walls |
| 10m Alexa LED Strip Lights | 10m | Alexa, App | Full RGB | Waterproof, music sync | Kitchens, large setups |
| LUXONIC 15m Alexa LED Strip Lights | 15m | Alexa, App | Full RGB | Music sync | Large rooms, creative installs |
Benefits of Smart Light Strips in UK Homes
- Energy Savings: LED strips consume less power than traditional bulbs.
- Convenience: Voice control means no fumbling for switches.
- Customisation: Adjust brightness and colour to suit mood or activity.
- Safety: Waterproof models are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Space Friendly: Perfect for small flats or older UK homes with limited natural light.
- Ambience: Create cosy evenings, vibrant parties, or calming workspaces.
Practical UK Context
Smart light strips shine in real UK life. Early winter sunsets mean homes get dark by late afternoon, making automated lighting a real comfort. Damp laundry weather often calls for brighter kitchens, while small rental flats benefit from flexible strips that don’t require permanent fixtures. Rising energy bills also make efficient LED strips a smart choice — they deliver atmosphere without draining your budget.
🔗 Next Reads 💡 Smarter Home Upgrades
Smart light strips are just one step toward a connected home. If you’re exploring ways to boost security and convenience, check out Smart Locks That Actually Make Your Home Safer for practical protection tips, and Best Smart Ceiling Lights UK (Alexa & App Controlled Options) to see how overhead lighting can complement strip lighting for a complete smart setup.
Which Smart Light Strip Should You Choose?
Smart light strips are one of the easiest and most effective upgrades for UK households. Whether you want simple tunable white lighting, vibrant RGB colours, or waterproof options for kitchens, there’s a model to suit every need.
For most homeowners, the Amazon Basics Smart Light Strip is the best value option — affordable, reliable, and Alexa‑ready. If you want vibrant colours and advanced features like music sync, the TP‑Link Tapo L900‑5 is the standout choice for TV setups or decorative spaces. For larger installations, the LUXONIC 15m strip offers unbeatable coverage.
By choosing the right smart light strip, you’ll enjoy energy savings, convenience, and a modern home atmosphere — all while keeping control at your fingertips or through simple voice commands.
Brighten your home and lower your bills with the Smart Home Tech & Lighting Hub explore smart bulbs, motion sensors, and rechargeable gadgets that make efficiency easy.
For official, trusted UK advice on reducing energy use, the Energy Saving Trust has clear, practical guidance on saving electricity at home.
https://energysavingtrust.org.uk
Written by Andy M. — testing small upgrades that make UK homes warmer, cheaper, and easier to run.