Best Smart Lighting — Zigbee (Hive Hub) + Budget (2026)
1 smart lighting matching connectivity “Zigbee (Hive Hub)” + price tier “Budget”, hand-picked from UK Amazon listings.
Not sure which one to pick? Read our Philips Hue vs Govee vs IKEA Tradfri: Smart Lighting Compared guide.
#1 Pick
Hive Active Light Tunable B22 Bayonet Smart Bulb, Works with Amazon Alexa- Zigbee (Hive Hub)
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Tuneable warm-to-cool white controlled from the Hive app
- Works alongside existing Hive heating hubs for one combined app
- Reliable scheduling for security and energy savings
Cons
- Requires a Hive Hub if you don’t already have Hive heating installed
The Zigbee (Hive Hub) Budget Smart Lighting offers an accessible entry point into smart home lighting control. This hub-based system utilises the reliable Zigbee protocol, specifically designed for seamless integration with the Hive ecosystem – allowing you to manage your lights via a smartphone or tablet. It’s a cost-effective solution for automating basic lighting schedules and creating simple scenes within your home.
This kit includes the necessary Hive Hub unit which acts as the central control point, connecting to your existing Zigbee bulbs (sold separately). The hub itself connects to your Wi-Fi network, enabling remote control and integration with other compatible Hive devices. This setup provides a straightforward way to begin building a smart lighting experience without significant investment.
The system’s budget-friendly price ensures you can experiment with smart lighting technology. While the bulbs themselves are sold separately, this hub provides the foundation for a scalable smart home solution, allowing you to expand your network as your needs grow. Remember to check compatibility with other Hive products before purchasing additional bulbs.
FAQ
What does the Zigbee protocol actually do?
Zigbee is a low-power wireless communication protocol designed for short-range networks like smart home devices. It’s more reliable than Wi-Fi in many situations, especially within your home, and it requires less power to operate.
Do I need to buy bulbs specifically designed for the Hive Hub?
Yes, this hub is compatible with any Zigbee bulb that supports the Hive protocol. Ensure the bulbs you purchase are advertised as ‘Hive Compatible’ or have a Zigbee frequency of 2.4GHz.
How many bulbs can I connect to one Hive Hub?
The Hive Hub supports up to 50 Zigbee devices, but performance may be affected if you exceed this number. It's recommended to keep the network relatively organized for optimal operation.
What kind of Wi-Fi connection does the Hive Hub require?
The Hive Hub requires a stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection to function correctly. Ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4GHz signal and that the hub has a strong reception for reliable control.
Can I control the lights with voice assistants?
Yes, this Zigbee (Hive Hub) system integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant once configured within the Hive app. You can then control your lights using voice commands.
What if my Wi-Fi goes down?
If your Wi-Fi connection is lost, you’ll still be able to control the lights locally via the Hive Hub itself. However, remote access and some smart features will be unavailable until the Wi-Fi is restored.
How do I set up the Hive Hub?
The Hive Hub setup involves downloading the Hive app, creating an account, and following the in-app instructions to connect the hub to your Wi-Fi network. The app guides you through pairing the hub with compatible Zigbee bulbs.
Is this hub compatible with other smart home systems?
The Hive Hub is primarily designed for use within the Hive ecosystem, but it generally supports integration with other compatible Zigbee devices via standard protocols. Refer to individual device documentation for specifics.
What’s the range of the Zigbee signal?
Typical Zigbee ranges are around 30 meters indoors, though this can be affected by walls and interference. Placing the hub in a central location helps maximise its range.
Does the Hive Hub require any additional power supply?
The Hive Hub is powered via the supplied micro-USB cable. Ensure you have access to a standard UK mains outlet for connecting the cable.