If you’re looking for a versatile, vibrant, and durable outdoor lighting solution, the Govee Outdoor LED Strip Lights might just be your perfect match. These smart, IP65 waterproof RGBIC lights work with Alexa and Google Assistant, making them ideal for any patio, eave, or outdoor decoration setup. After using them for over a year, I can confidently say they’re worth the investment.
Initial Impressions
Installing these lights was a straightforward yet rewarding experience. To secure the light strip, I used large paper binder clips as temporary supports while peeling off the adhesive backing and sticking the strip to my eaves. This technique allowed me to precisely position the lights so they shine on the face of the house instead of directly downward, creating a soft, elegant glow that enhances the look of my home.
Once installed, the real fun began. My neighbor and I spent over 20 minutes testing out the various presets available in the app. From holiday themes to party modes and soothing ambient settings, the customization options felt almost endless. These lights truly elevate the atmosphere of any occasion.
Pros
- Very Bright: The brightness of these lights is impressive. Whether you’re hosting a lively outdoor party or simply setting a relaxed evening mood, they deliver ample illumination.
- Extensive Presets: The app offers a wide range of presets for parties, holidays, or dimmable everyday lighting. You can even set solid white light, ranging from warm to cool tones.
- Convenient Scheduling: It’s easy to set the lights to turn on and off automatically at specific times, saving you the hassle of manual operation.
- Holiday-Ready: No more climbing ladders to put up or take down Christmas lights every year. These lights are a permanent, versatile solution that adapts to any occasion. As I watch others pull out ladders, I go into the app and change the preset away from the Fireworks scene for New Years and I’m done.
- Security Lighting – I’m using the lights with other motion detection from cameras within Home Assistant to trigger the strip lights to turn on as a security feature when some parameters are met.
Cons
- No Native HomeKit Support: While these lights integrate well with Alexa and Google Assistant, they lack native Apple HomeKit compatibility.
- Limited Clips Included: The package includes only about 14 mounting clips for 65 feet of light strip, which isn’t sufficient for a secure installation. I had to purchase additional clips separately for about $10.
- Time-Consuming Installation: While not difficult, the installation process can take longer than expected, especially if you’re particular about positioning.
- App Learning Curve: The Govee app is user-friendly for basic functions, like turning the lights on or selecting a preset. However, exploring advanced features requires some patience and experimentation.
- No Sunset Trigger: Unlike Apple HomeKit, there’s no option to use sunset as a time-based trigger for the lights, which would have been a nice addition. I’m using Home Assistant for all triggers on and off.
Performance After One Year
After a full year of use, these lights continue to perform flawlessly with no issues. They’re as bright and vibrant as the day I installed them, and the adhesive has held up remarkably well despite exposure to the elements. I’m so impressed with their durability and performance that I’m seriously considering installing them around the back of the house or in other areas to expand the lighting setup. They’ve proven to be a fantastic investment that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of our home.
Final Thoughts
The Govee Outdoor LED Strip Lights are a top-notch choice for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor lighting. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the lack of HomeKit support and the need for extra clips, the pros far outweigh the cons. The versatility, brightness, and durability of these lights make them a worthwhile addition to any home.
If you’re considering outdoor lighting that’s both functional and decorative, I highly recommend giving these a try. After a year of consistent use, I’m still extremely happy with them and wouldn’t hesitate to install them again.
