There are literally dozens of threads in the forum already on exactly this issue, and people become very passionate when taking one side or the other. But the short answer is simple: both smart bulbs and smart switches have pros and cons, and it just depends on the details of each situation. Sometimes one is better, sometimes the other is better. Many people, myself included, use some of each.
If you do your own wiring installation, then, as you mentioned, smart switches will often end up being less expensive, although now that you can get dimmable white smart bulbs for about $15 each, that is no longer as true as it used to be. 
But there are certainly a lot of advantages to switches. The main reasons to use bulbs are:
One) you want the color changing features
Two) you want to create zones in a room where multiple fixtures all operate on the same branch circuit from the same light switch. These are commonly big rooms like basements, but sometimes also kitchens.
Three) you are renting and are not allowed to replace any of the light switches.
But if none of those apply, switches will probably be better.
So it’s just something to evaluate case by case. Don’t let anyone tell you that bulbs are bad because people will turn off the power at the wall switch- these days there are now several different ways to address that issue.
Sometimes bulbs are best, sometimes switches are best, budget will factor into it, so it’s just something you have to evaluate for yourself for each particular location.