Philips Hue Bridge
Score: 85/100
Lightkiwi N7180
Score: 87/100Rankings
The Lightkiwi N7180 is a dual-channel Wi-Fi smart controller delivering up to 192 W per channel with ultra-smooth 0.1-100 % dimming. Its limitations include lack of 5 GHz Wi-Fi, no native HomeKit support, and a bulkier profile for shallow cabinets. Ideal for DIY kitchen remodels and professional under-cabinet lighting where high power and reliable voice control are needed.
The Philips Hue Bridge is a Zigbee hub that links up to 50 Hue lights, offering low power draw and Matter compatibility. Its reliance on a wired Ethernet connection and a 50-light limit can restrict flexibility. Ideal for Hue users seeking reliable local control and extensive automation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 0.1 Wbest | 0.5 W |
— | 192 Wbest | |
— | 8 Abest | |
2 yearsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 280 g | 68 gbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Electrical(2) | ||
Input Voltage (V) | 100-240 V | 12-24 V |
Idle Power Consumption (W) | 0.1 W | 0.5 W |
General(1) | ||
Operating Temperature (°C) | 0-40 °C | -10 to 50 °C |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 280 g | 68 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 26x90.9x90.6 mm | 25.4×12.7×44.45 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Hue Bridge Pro for its dramatically higher device capacity, faster processor, and expanded Matter/Thread support, positioning it as the most robust hub for large Hue ecosystems. They also commend the standard Bridge for reliable local control and broad smart-home integrations, though they note its Ethernet-only connectivity and lower bulb limit as drawbacks.
Everyday users generally commend the Bridge for its easy setup, low power draw, and ability to manage many lights beyond the Bluetooth range. Recurring themes include appreciation for automatic firmware updates and seamless integration with voice assistants, while the need for a wired Ethernet connection and the 50-light ceiling on the standard model are common sources of frustration.
“Zero flicker-perfect for cooking videos”
“Alexa integration is seamless; schedules my kitchen lights perfectly”
“Powers 20ft of strips no problem”
Professional reviewers consistently rank the Lightkiwi N7180 as a top choice for modular under-cabinet lighting, applauding its powerful output, ultra-smooth dimming, and reliable voice-control integration. Minor criticisms focus on the app's dated interface and the lack of 5 GHz Wi-Fi or native HomeKit support, but overall it is seen as a robust, installer-friendly solution for high-end kitchen remodels.
Everyday users love the flicker-free illumination and the effortless Alexa/Google Assistant control, often highlighting its ability to run long LED runs without flicker. Common praise centers on quick installation and reliable performance, while recurring complaints involve occasional Wi-Fi dropouts, app instability on newer iOS versions, and the controller's bulkier profile in very shallow cabinets.
