Sometimes low-tech is just less stressful.
Can’t argue with that. I’ve swapped out enough “smart” bulbs for clients who just wanted things to work without fuss. The switches are a solid upgrade though—more reliable, and you’re not stuck with one brand if a bulb dies. It’s funny how sometimes the simplest setup ends up being the most dependable.
I totally get the appeal of just sticking with regular switches. I tried smart bulbs in my last apartment, and honestly, it was more hassle than it was worth—half the time the app wouldn’t connect, or someone would flip the wall switch and mess up the whole setup. I do like the idea of smart switches though, since you can still use regular bulbs and don’t have to worry about compatibility as much. Still figuring out what makes sense for my place... kinda tempted to just keep it simple for now.
I do like the idea of smart switches though, since you can still use regular bulbs and don’t have to worry about compatibility as much.
Right there with you. Smart bulbs are cool in theory, but it’s a pain when the network hiccups or someone hits the switch—suddenly you’re stuck in the dark. I usually recommend smart switches for clients who want that tech vibe but without swapping out every bulb. It’s a cleaner look too, and you still get manual control if tech fails. If you do go for switches, just double-check your wiring first—some older homes need a neutral wire for most models. Learned that lesson the hard way on my own reno...
I ran into the neutral wire issue too—thought I could just swap the switch and be done, but nope. Ended up calling an electrician after staring at the wiring for way too long. Smart switches are definitely less hassle once they’re in, though. No more arguing with my partner about who left the lights on...
I FINALLY UPGRADED MY LIVING ROOM LIGHTS—ANYONE ELSE TRIED SMART BULBS?
I get why people like smart switches, but honestly, the whole neutral wire thing is exactly why I went with smart bulbs instead. I mean, yeah, you have to leave the switch on all the time, but for me it was way less hassle than messing around with wiring or paying an electrician. Did you look into those at all before going the switch route?
I know some folks say switches are more “permanent,” but I kinda like being able to just unscrew a bulb and move it if I want. Plus, if you’re renting or on a budget, smart bulbs seem like a way better deal. I got a four-pack on sale for less than what my neighbor paid just to have one switch installed.
The only thing that bugs me is if someone flips the wall switch off, then the bulb’s dead until you flip it back. But honestly, that’s just a habit thing. My partner and I just taped a tiny note above the switch for a week and now we don’t even think about it.
Curious if you found that the switches are really worth the extra cost and hassle? Or is it more about wanting everything wired in and out of sight? I keep wondering if I’m missing out by not going all-in with switches, but so far the bulbs have been working fine for us. Maybe it’s different if you’ve got a big house or want to do fancy stuff with dimming and scenes...
Just seems like for what most people want—turning lights on and off from your phone or yelling at Alexa—the bulbs do the trick without rewiring anything. Am I underestimating how much easier switches make things in the long run?
