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Published: 13 May 2025
Also featured in: Top 5 Energy-Saving Smart Light Bulbs
Overview
The Tapo L510B Wi-Fi Smart Bulb from TP-Link delivers reliable smart lighting at an unbeatable price point, making it a top choice for beginners and budget-conscious users in the UK. With dimmable white light, remote control via the Tapo app, and voice assistant integration, this bulb is designed for simplicity and efficiency.
While it doesn’t offer color tuning or advanced white temperature control, the L510B shines in its ease of setup, no-hub Wi-Fi design, and dependable performance. If you’re building a cost-effective smart lighting system or upgrading specific rooms with voice control, this bulb offers a lot of value for under £10.
Key Features
- ✅ Dimmable warm white light (2700K)
- ✅ Works via Wi-Fi – no hub required
- ✅ Control with Tapo app or voice (Alexa & Google)
- ✅ Preset schedules and away mode automation
- ✅ Energy-efficient 8.7W bulb (~60W equivalent)
- ✅ Up to 15,000 hours lifespan
It’s ideal for lamps, bedrooms, and utility spaces where simple smart lighting control is needed, without investing in an entire hub ecosystem.
Performance in Real-World Use
Setup is straightforward using the free Tapo app. The bulb connects directly to your Wi-Fi network without any hub or bridge. Once connected, you can turn it on/off, dim it, or create schedules — all from your phone or by asking Alexa or Google Assistant.
The light quality is consistent and flicker-free. With 806 lumens at full brightness, it’s perfect for general lighting. The dimming range is responsive and smooth, great for mood lighting in the evening or lower brightness settings in hallways or nightstands.
The Tapo app is polished and user-friendly, offering timers, group control, countdowns, and an away mode that simulates presence when you’re not home. Voice control via Alexa and Google is fast and accurate, with no notable delay or lag.
Use Cases in UK Homes
- 💡 Bedroom: Schedule dimmed lighting for relaxing nights or morning routines.
- 🛋️ Living room: Use voice control to switch off lamps without leaving the sofa.
- 🏠 Hallway: Automate light timers for safety and convenience during evenings.
- 🎤 Voice activation: Use commands like “Alexa, dim the hallway light to 50%”.
- 🌍 Remote access: Turn lights on/off from anywhere using the Tapo app.
How It Compares
- 💡 vs. Philips Hue: Hue supports tunable white & color, but requires a hub and costs more.
- 💡 vs. Meross Smart Bulb: Meross offers HomeKit support, but is less budget-friendly.
- 🔌 vs. Amazon Basics Bulb: Amazon’s bulb has similar features but fewer app options.
- 🧠 vs. Tapo L530: L530 adds RGB color control; L510B focuses on affordability and simplicity.
For single-room upgrades or as a first smart bulb, the L510B balances cost, performance, and ease of use extremely well.
Pros
- Very affordable entry into smart lighting
- No hub required – Wi-Fi direct control
- Easy-to-use app with great scheduling
- Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant
- Energy-efficient and long-lasting
Cons
- No tunable white or color lighting
- Not compatible with Apple HomeKit
- No energy usage tracking
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable smart bulb that just works — the Tapo L510B is a brilliant choice. It’s ideal for anyone just getting started with smart lighting or upgrading specific rooms without needing color or white tone control.
For under £10, it offers solid smart features, app and voice control, and excellent dimmable warm white light — all without the complexity of a hub. A budget champion in 2025.
★★★★☆ (4.6/5)