Smart floodlights are revolutionizing outdoor lighting by combining convenience with enhanced security features. One such standout product is the Philips Hue white and colour ambiance Discover outdoor floodlight.
Priced at £159.97, this outdoor floodlight has garnered impressive ratings of 4.7 out of 5 from 1,369 reviews. Let’s delve into what makes this product a top choice for smart outdoor lighting.
When I installed the Philips Hue outdoor floodlight, the process was relatively straightforward, although it required some drilling to connect to a power source. The light unit has three screw locations which made it easy to secure.
Once set up, the floodlight seamlessly integrated with the Hue Bridge and app. The ability to customise light schedules and control the lights remotely has significantly enhanced my outdoor space. The array of 16 million colours adds a magical touch to my garden, especially during summer evenings.
Paired with an Eve Motion sensor and a bit of Apple HomeKit trickery, we’ve made ourselves quite a colurful security floodlight.
Ease of Installation
The Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight is designed with user convenience in mind, making installation relatively straightforward. The light unit backing features three screw locations, simplifying the mounting process. However, users should note that the wire needs to be fed inside the building to a power source, which may require drilling through walls. A grommet is provided in the box to suit the cable, but there is no side exit wire option, which could be a limitation for some installations. Proper planning and preparation can help mitigate these challenges and ensure a smooth installation process.
Smart Control and Scheduling
One of the standout features of the Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight is its smart control capabilities. By connecting the floodlight to the Hue Bridge, users can control their outdoor lighting through various methods, including the Philips Hue app, voice commands, and geolocation. This flexibility allows for setting light schedules to mimic presence, enhancing security and convenience. The ability to control lights from anywhere provides peace of mind, especially for those who travel frequently or have irregular schedules. Smart control integration is a significant advantage for modern homes seeking advanced lighting solutions, with integrations with Alexa and Apple HomeKit
Weather-Proof Design
The Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight is built to withstand outdoor conditions, boasting an IP44 weather-proof rating. This rating indicates that the light is protected against water splashed from any direction, making it suitable for general outdoor use. The fixture has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its durability and performance in various weather conditions. However, users should be cautious when installing the light in highly exposed locations with heavy wind and rain, as the IP rating might not provide complete protection in extreme environments. Overall, the weather-proof design ensures reliable operation in typical outdoor settings.
Versatile Lighting Options
With the ability to produce 16 million colours and various shades of white light, the Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight offers unparalleled versatility in outdoor lighting. Users can create stunning visual effects by highlighting objects, trees, or pathways, making their outdoor spaces more inviting and aesthetically pleasing. The Hue app allows for saving favourite light settings, which can be recalled with a simple tap. This feature is particularly useful for creating ambiance during social gatherings or simply enjoying a relaxing evening outdoors. The extensive colour options make this floodlight a unique addition to any smart home lighting setup.
High-Quality Materials
Constructed from high-quality aluminum and superior synthetics, the Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight is designed for longevity and optimal performance. These materials ensure that the floodlight can withstand outdoor elements while maintaining its structural integrity. The smart use of materials also helps optimise radio frequency, enhancing the overall functionality of the light. This focus on quality and durability ensures that users can rely on the floodlight for extended periods without significant wear and tear. Investing in a high-quality lighting solution like this can provide lasting value and satisfaction.
Powerful Illumination
The Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight features a powerful LED light source capable of illuminating large portions of a garden or outdoor space. This makes it ideal for lighting up driveways, pathways, and entrances with ease. While it may not be as bright as some dedicated security floodlights, it still provides ample light for general use and enhances security by improving visibility around the property. The ability to adjust the brightness and color settings further enhances its versatility, allowing users to tailor the lighting to their specific needs and preferences.
Integration with Motion Sensors
Pairing the Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight with motion sensors enhances its functionality and security benefits. The Philips Hue outdoor sensor, in particular, offers various sensitivity settings and daylight brightness sensing, providing full control over when the light activates. This feature is excellent for security purposes, as the light can turn on automatically when movement is detected, deterring potential intruders. Additionally, the motion sensor can be programmed to trigger indoor Hue lights, creating a seamless and integrated lighting system that enhances both security and convenience.
User Experience and App Integration
Users have praised the Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight for its seamless integration with the Hue app and other smart home systems. The app provides an intuitive interface for controlling and customising the lighting, making it easy for users to set up and manage their outdoor lights. The ability to automate lighting based on home or away modes, geolocation, and specific schedules adds significant value to the user experience. This level of control and customisation helps users optimise their outdoor lighting according to their lifestyle and preferences, enhancing overall satisfaction with the product.
Design and Aesthetics
The Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight features a sleek and modern design that complements various architectural styles. The frosted cover adds a touch of elegance while protecting the LEDs from direct exposure. This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal of the floodlight but also contributes to its durability. The adjustable mounting bracket allows users to position the light at different angles, ensuring optimal coverage and flexibility in lighting arrangements. The combination of aesthetics and functionality makes this floodlight a desirable addition to any outdoor space.
Durability and Longevity
Durability is a key consideration for outdoor lighting, and the Philips Hue Discover floodlight does not disappoint in this regard. Constructed with high-quality materials and designed to withstand various weather conditions, this floodlight promises long-term reliability. Users have reported positive experiences with the product’s longevity, noting that it continues to perform well even after extended use. This durability ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of smart outdoor lighting without frequent replacements or maintenance, making it a worthwhile investment for enhancing their home’s exterior lighting.
Security and Convenience
The Philips Hue Discover outdoor floodlight provides significant security and convenience benefits. Its powerful illumination and motion sensor integration help deter intruders and improve visibility around the property. The ability to control the light remotely and set automated schedules enhances convenience, allowing users to manage their outdoor lighting effortlessly. Whether arriving home late at night or wanting to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests, this floodlight offers the flexibility and functionality needed to meet various outdoor lighting requirements. Its combination of security features and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any smart home ecosystem.
Pros:
- Easy to install and set up.
- Highly customisable with 16 million colours.
- Integrates well with other smart home devices.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other outdoor lights.
- Rear cable entry only, which may not suit all installations.
- IP44 rating may not suffice for very exposed locations.
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Conclusion
Overall, the Philips Hue outdoor floodlight is an excellent investment for those looking to enhance their outdoor lighting with smart features. Its robust design and versatility in lighting options cater to both security and ambiance needs.
Despite being on the pricier side, the floodlight’s high-quality build and extensive functionalities make it worth every penny. Whether for security or creating a pleasant outdoor atmosphere, this smart floodlight is highly recommended.
They also do a white only floodlight for those that don’t want the colour in the garden.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Is this floodlight compatible with other smart home systems?
Answer: Yes, the Philips Hue Discover Floodlight is compatible with various smart home systems, including Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa.
Question: Can this light be used as a security floodlight?
Answer: Yes, it can function as a security floodlight when paired with motion sensors and can also be programmed for different lighting scenarios.
Question: Does the floodlight come with a motion sensor?
Answer: No, the motion sensor is sold separately. However, it can be integrated with the Philips Hue outdoor sensor for enhanced functionality.
