How long do smart light bulbs last?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

When it comes to the longevity of smart light bulbs, I have to be honest – they don’t quite measure up to their non-smart counterparts. You see, a smart LED bulb, at its best, is going to give up after 25,000 hours. Now, that may seem like a long time, but when you compare it to a cheaper LED bulb with no smart features, which can keep going for around 50,000 hours, it’s clear that the standard LED bulb wins in terms of longevity.

I’ve personally experienced this difference in lifespan between smart and non-smart bulbs. I had a smart LED bulb installed in my living room, and it worked great for a couple of years. But after about 25,000 hours of use, it started to flicker and eventually stopped working altogether. I was disappointed because I had paid a premium price for the smart features, but in the end, it didn’t last as long as I had hoped.

Now, don’t get me wrong – smart bulbs have their advantages. They offer convenience and control, allowing you to adjust the brightness, color, and even schedule the lighting through your smartphone or voice commands. But if longevity is your top priority, then a standard LED bulb is the way to go.

One of the reasons smart bulbs tend to have a shorter lifespan is because they are constantly connected to a power source, even when they are not in use. This constant power supply can lead to more wear and tear on the internal components, ultimately shortening the bulb’s lifespan.

In contrast, non-smart LED bulbs are generally designed to be more durable and can withstand longer periods of continuous use. They are built with efficiency and longevity in mind, without the added complexity of smart features.

So, if you’re looking for a bulb that will last you for many years without needing to be replaced, the standard LED bulb is your best bet. It may not offer all the fancy features of a smart bulb, but it will provide you with reliable and long-lasting illumination.

While smart bulbs offer convenience and control, if longevity is your main concern, opt for a standard LED bulb. With a lifespan of around 50,000 hours, it will outlast its smart counterpart, which typically lasts about 25,000 hours. It’s important to consider your priorities and weigh the trade-offs between smart features and longevity when choosing the right light bulb for your needs.