Aqara is on fire in 2025, releasing an array of innovative products. Following the introduction of its new HomeKit Secure Video camera, the latest offering is the Aqara LED Bulb T2, a smart lighting solution that combines Thread and Zigbee compatibility. With Matter support, Zigbee Adaptive Lighting, and an extensive color tuning range, this bulb is an excellent addition to any HomeKit setup.
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Challenges with HomeKit Bulbs
For some reason, I consistently encounter issues with bulbs in my HomeKit setup (i.e., no response errors). The Aqara LED Bulb T2 is designed to support Matter over Thread, ensuring compatibility for the future, while also offering Zigbee for more sophisticated customization if you’re using a Zigbee network. If you’re already utilizing the Aqara ecosystem with a hub, the Zigbee integration allows for multi-device grouping, custom dimming curves, and seamless light transitions.
Notable Features
- Wireless Connectivity: Compatible with Thread, Zigbee, and Bluetooth
- HomeKit Support: Works with HomeKit and features Adaptive Lighting (Zigbee only)
- Matter Compatibility: Cross-platform functionality with Google, Amazon, and Samsung via Thread
- Color Options:
- RGB CCT Version: 16 million colors and tunable white (2000K-9000K)
- CCT Version: Tunable white (2700K-6500K)
- Brightness:
- E26 Model: Up to 1100lm (75W equivalent)
- GU10 Model: Up to 450lm (30W equivalent)
- Color Rendering Index (CRI): Ra>90 for true-to-life colors
- Adaptive Lighting: Automatically adjusts color temperature (Zigbee only, not for HomeKit Adaptive Lighting)
- Multi-Device Grouping: Sync multiple Aqara bulbs using the Aqara Home app
- Custom Lighting Effects: Dimming curve control, customizable transitions, and dynamic effects
- Power-Off Memory: Settings retain the last state after a power interruption
Integration with HomeKit
Setting up the Aqara LED Bulb T2 in your HomeKit is straightforward. If you possess a Thread border router (such as HomePod mini or Apple TV 4K), the T2 can connect via Matter over Thread.
- Install the Bulb: Simply screw in the bulb and switch it on.
- Integrate with HomeKit: Open the Home app, tap the + icon, and scan the HomeKit QR code located on the bulb or in the manual. If using Zigbee, ensure your Aqara hub is already configured.
- Customize in the Home App: Once added to HomeKit, assign the bulb to a room. From there, you can incorporate it into scenes, set automations, adjust colors, and more. Pair it with a HomeKit motion sensor for advanced automation capabilities.
Conclusion
As highlighted earlier, Aqara has made a strong impression in 2025 with a range of new products. With its competitive pricing, Matter compatibility via Thread, and robust Zigbee features, this could very well be one of the best smart home bulbs available right now.
You can purchase it from Amazon.
