As far as zwave versus zigbee, I believe aeotec is the only Z wave strip for the US, and it’s more expensive Than most comparable zigbee models. But you might want it if you were going to use direct association.
https://www.amazon.com/Aeotec-Strip-Z-Wave-light-strip/dp/B01MRROSHG
LIFX makes an expensive Wi-Fi strip which has eight individually addressable color zones per meter. That’s a nice feature that most of the other strips don’t have, but it does add cost.
https://www.amazon.com/LIFX-Adjustable-Multicolor-Dimmable-Assistant/dp/B073168F4Y/
As far as the smart controllers to use with dumb strips, the Fibaro (zwave) is very popular. The Gledopto (zigbee) is a new inexpensive option, not as well engineered but some people are using it just because of the cost.
https://www.thesmartesthouse.com/products/fibaro-rgbw-controller-fgrgbwm-441
.
https://www.amazon.com/Zigbee-Controller-Compatible-Lightify-Control/dp/B07FTG5M9S/
There are many similar looking devices to the Gledopto, but most of them are not certified.