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It depends on the technology. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart bulbs work without a hub. Bulbs that use Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread generally need a hub (or a compatible smart speaker/router that has one built in).
No hub needed
- Wi-Fi bulbs — connect straight to your router and app. Easiest to start with; fine for a few bulbs. Downside: lots of bulbs can clutter your Wi-Fi.
- Bluetooth bulbs — pair directly to your phone, but only work in range and usually for one user.
Hub recommended or required
- Zigbee / Z-Wave (e.g. Philips Hue) — need a hub, but it’s more reliable at scale, faster, and doesn’t burden your Wi-Fi.
- Thread / Matter — need a Thread border router, which is increasingly built into smart speakers, hubs, and some routers.
Which should you choose?
| Your situation | Best pick |
|---|---|
| Just a few bulbs, keep it simple | Wi-Fi bulbs (no hub) |
| Whole-home, reliability matters | Zigbee/Thread + hub |
| Already own a recent smart speaker | Check if it’s a built-in hub |
See our smart home hub for setup guidance, and compare smart bulbs and hubs on Amazon.