Light Strip Comparison · UK 2026
Philips Hue Essential Strip Light vs Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip

Specs, pros and cons compared side by side

Both the Philips Hue Essential Strip Light and the Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip are colour gradient lightstrips. This head-to-head sets them side by side using the specs, pros and cons from our full reviews. Philips Hue specs come from Hue’s own pages, UK pages first.

Quick verdict

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Philips Hue Essential Strip Light

Pick it for: 5 m strip, also sold in 10 m (the Gradient Lightstrip: 2 m, extendable to 10 m)

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Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip

Pick it for: Extends up to 10 m (the Essential Strip Light: not extendable) · 25,000-hour lifetime (the Essential Strip Light: 15,000 hours)

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Quick comparison

Spec Philips Hue Essential Strip Light Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip
Type RGBIC colour gradient lightstrip, 5 m Gradient lightstrip, 2 m
Power 220-240 V mains; lumens not stated by Hue 20 W, up to 1,800 lm
Connection Bluetooth and Zigbee Bluetooth and Zigbee
Hub needed No; Bridge unlocks all features No (Bluetooth or Bridge)
Extras Cut to fit (Hue’s UK page); not extendable; IP20 2000-6500K, cuttable, extends to 10 m
Philips Hue Essential Strip Light

Pros

  • RGBIC gradient of colourful light
  • Hue’s UK page says you can cut it to fit any space
  • Works without Wi-Fi
  • Slim strip, 9.8 mm wide and 2 mm high

Cons

  • Not extendable
  • Hue doesn’t publish lumens or a colour-temperature range
  • Full features need a Hue Bridge
Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip

Pros

  • Shines multiple colours at once
  • Extends up to 10 m
  • Works with Bluetooth or a Hue Bridge
  • Can be cut

Cons

  • Not designed for use with a TV or monitor
  • Not interchangeable with standard Hue lightstrips or their extensions

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Which should you buy?

Why choose the Philips Hue Essential Strip Light

  • 5 m strip, also sold in 10 m (the Gradient Lightstrip: 2 m, extendable to 10 m)
Why choose the Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip

  • Extends up to 10 m (the Essential Strip Light: not extendable)
  • 25,000-hour lifetime (the Essential Strip Light: 15,000 hours)

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