Hue uses Zigbee though, doesn't it? In my experience they're the most reliable Zigbee lights with the most consistent light output, and work very well as routers.

I bought 8 hue bulbs for $12 each like 6 years ago and every one of those suckers still work to this day. And the bridge came with the bundle. I just looked up a replacement bulb and its $20 per bulb. If those still last as long as my originals I will happily keep using them. They have worked flawlessly on my homekit schedule and they turn off at 1am and turn on at dusk every day without fail.

I agree that Hue bulbs are expensive compared to others but they generally are considered some of the best bulbs for color accuracy and build quality. I've considered getting Hue bulbs before but definitely wont be now.