I typically avoid anything smart, but given practicality, I’m looking for general tips or recommendations for smart bulbs?

I have just started self-hosting home-assistant, and would prefer ones which integrate well with that.

What should I look out for when buying them? Any brands to avoid? Any cybersecurity concerns you’ve come across? Or should I avoid them altogether?

**Thanks everyone for the responses! I may not get back individually, but it’s a great point to jump in from

  • Bongles@lemmy.zip
    5·
    3 days ago

    I would also get the thirdreality bulbs, they’re kind of the cheapest but still decent zigbee brand. I am struggling with my piece of shit sonoff zigbee dongle though, so maybe look into that.

    (It’s unavailable in home assistant, all the fucking time. I can fix it temporarily by unplugging and plugging it back in but it barely lasts).

    • spaghettiwestern@sh.itjust.works
      4·
      3 days ago

      One more thing - check your cable. If I’m remembering correctly it’s the high frequency electrical noise generated by USB 3.0 ports that causes the problem. USB 2.0 cables block those frequencies so the dongles will work.

      • Bongles@lemmy.zip
        3·
        3 days ago

        I tried it that way, but started with the included USB extension.

        So far I’ve tried with or without the extension, every USB port on the PC, and trying different locations within reach of the extension.