Smart Lighting Hub
Philips Hue Bridge Review

Up to 50 lights  |  Up to 12 accessories  |  Zigbee and Bluetooth  |  Connects to your router  |  Desk or wall mount

Overview

The Philips Hue Bridge is the square hub for a Hue lighting system. Hue says it lets you control your lights from anywhere in the world via the Hue app and create recurring automations. It supports up to 50 lights and 12 accessories, uses Zigbee and Bluetooth, and Hue lists Zigbee repeater functionality. It measures 88 x 88 x 26 mm, weighs 0.22 kg and can sit on a desk or mount on a wall.

A power adapter is included (100-240V AC in, 5V DC 600mA out, 0.1W maximum standby), and the Bridge connects to your router; Hue’s US reset guide has you plug it into the router with an Ethernet cable. Set it up in the Philips Hue app (Android 12.0 or above, iOS 17 or later). Hue lists Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings as voice assistants that need the Bridge, and Matter functionality via the Hue Bridge. It is rated IP20, works from 0°C to 40°C and has a 2-year warranty.

Ad: we earn commission if you buy through the price buttons on this page. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Check latest priceat Amazon

Key Features

✓Up to 50 lights and 12 accessories
✓Control lights from anywhere via the Hue app
✓Create recurring automations
✓Zigbee and Bluetooth, with Zigbee repeater functionality
✓Voice assistants: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home, Samsung SmartThings
✓Matter functionality via the Hue Bridge
✓Power adapter included; 0.1W maximum standby
✓88 x 88 x 26 mm, 0.22 kg; desk or wall mounting
✓IP20; 0°C to 40°C
✓2-year warranty; minimum support period of 36 months from purchase

Pros & Cons

Pros

+ Control Hue lights from anywhere in the Hue app
+ Recurring automations
+ Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home and SmartThings
+ Desk or wall mounting

Cons

− Maximum of 50 lights and 12 accessories
− Needs power and a connection to your router

Setup & Installation

Hue’s guide says not to plug in the Bridge yet; keep it close so you can scan its QR code. Open the Philips Hue app; the first time, it asks if you want to add a Bridge, so tap Yes (or go to Settings > Devices > +). Scan the QR code, then tap Next. If there’s no QR code, tap No QR code to add it by searching. Then follow the on-screen instructions.

If the app can’t find the Bridge, check it is connected to power and to your router, and wait until the first and second LEDs light up. You can also search by IP address (tap I need help, then More options); use the MAC address on the back of the Bridge to find its IP address. If the third light stays off, update the Bridge in Settings > Software update, and run the update again if the light is still off.

Common Problems & Fixes

Running into issues? Our Philips Hue troubleshooting guide covers step-by-step fixes taken from Hue’s own support pages, including Bridge not connecting or not found, Bridge lights explained and how to reset a Bridge.

Who Should Buy It

Anyone who wants to control Hue lights from anywhere, set recurring automations and add voice control, with up to 50 lights and 12 accessories.

Verdict

The Hue Bridge handles up to 50 lights and 12 accessories, with remote control, recurring automations and voice assistants through the Hue app. If you need more, the Hue Bridge Pro lists 150 bulbs and 50 accessories.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Guides