LIFX Multi-Color Wi-Fi LED Bulb Review

General Information

ID #251
SKU BUL-11-A21E27-W
Series N/A
Manufacturer LIFX (other LEDs from LIFX)
Fitting Type E27 (other E27 LEDs)
Light Type Globe
Height 135mm
Width 65mm
Weight 295g
Warranty 2 Years
Test Date 2014-02-10
Review Notes The LIFX globe's brightness and color can be tuned using a Wi-Fi network and a smartphone app. The globe's 1000 lm specification is the maximum light output claimed for an unspecified color temperature. Light is not compatible with standard dimmers. The measurements used for the scoring are specific to a CCT of ~3800K (screenshot of the Android app's corresponding color dial position is included in the gallery), the globe's lumen output and efficiency was highest at this CCT. Light flicker frequency is so high (~6kHz) so as to be imperceptible. Globe gets quite hot at maximum brightness, measured efficiency is middle of the road compared to similar LED globes. The globe can output a very wide range of colors, with separate dials for colored mood lighting and for whites (2900K-9500K). Globe carries CE, SAA and RCM approval markings. Measured lumen output of 623 lm @ 3000K and 706 lm @ 9430K. Similar in concept to Philips' Hue globe
Price $99 (USD) from lifx.co on 28th of May 2014
Rating

 

LED Specifications

Claimed Measured Compared To
Watts 17W 16.2W @ 119V 64.7W @ 246V
Yearly Running Cost[?] $3.72 $3.55 $14.17
Lumens 1000 lm 936 lm 811 lm
Efficiency[?] 59 lm/W 58 lm/W 13 lm/W
Lumens/Purchase Price 10 lm/$ 9 lm/$ 406 lm/$
Power Factor[?] N/A 0.99 1
Color [?] Warm White, 3000K Warm White, 3776K Warm White, 2711K
Angle[?] 130° 133° Omni-Directional
Dimmable Yes, Integrated Excellent Yes, Trailing Edge
CRI (Color Accuracy)[?] N/A 86
Life 40,000 hours Not Measured 1,000 hours
Min/Max Voltage 100V / 240V 240V / 240V
Min/Max Temperature N/A / N/A N/A
Measured Temperature 84°C @ 25°C ambient
183°F @ 77°F ambient
158°C @ 25°C ambient
316°F @ 77°F ambient
Flicker Percent[?] 20% 11%
Flicker Index[?] 0.051 0.034

 

Link to manufacturer specifications at time of testing

 

Dimming measurements

Graph notes: Dimming performance can be highly dependant on the type of dimmer, the number of lights in the circuit and other factors. Results in your house might vary. Mouse over the graph for more details. Position 10 = Not dimmed. Position 1 = Fully dimmed.

 

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Distribution Graph

Angle: 133° (±66.5° from bottom), Maximum lux:

Graph notes: Shows the intensity of the light when viewed from different angles. Normal omni-directional globes have a fairly constant output all the way around (excepting directly above). Downlights have a narrow range at the bottom in which the light is emmited, this determines their angle.

 

Spectrum Graph

Representation of color spectrum

Graph notes: Shows the breakdown of the LED light into its component colors. With short wavelength ultraviolet on the left and long wavelength infrared on the right. The green line represents the relative absolute strength of the light at each frequency, while the red line represents what the typical human eye would see. The human eye is most sensitive to green light, but much less sensitive to purples and deep reds.

 

Flicker Graph

Graph of measured flicker

Percent: 20%, Index: 0.051 (lower is better in both cases)

Graph notes: Shows variation in light output over 1/10th of a second, with relative light output on the Y axis and time on the X Axis. Measured with a photodiode connected to an Oscilloscope. Ideally the yellow line should be flat. Low frequency high amplitude waveforms mean there is a possibility of noticeable flicker, but sensitivity to flicker varies between people. [More details about LED flicker]

 

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these results, each measurement carries an inherent degree of uncertainty and error. Safety and EMC compliance of products to regional or international standards have not been verified unless noted as an ENERGY STAR® LED Lighting Facts, or SSL Quality Scheme certified product. Retailers and importers selling unmarked or unapproved electrical goods can be fined or imprisoned. Mains supplied downlights require installation by a licensed electrician.