Going from black to extremely vibrant colors adds great depth with effects.
They’re undoubtedly expensive but easy enough to install and very sturdy.
1.Price and availability2.What I like3.Installation tips4.What I don’t like5.The competition6.Should you buy it?
Each panel features six connection points on the back, one for each side.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
So, I installed some on my wall to see just what they are capable of.
But are these panels actually worth buying?
Disclaimer:This review was made possible thanks to a review unit provided by Nanoleaf.
The company did not see the contents of this review before publishing.
This is partially due to their excellent color capabilities, customization options, and modular build.
So whether or not Nanoleaf is worth the cost depends on what you value in your lighting.
This package has an MSRP of $219.99.
Just note that certain options aren’t available at all locations.
So, what exactly do you get in the box?
I’ll start by discussing the installation process and then go into their color abilities and customizable effects.
The included mounting tape that comes with the Shapes is basically Nanoleaf’s version of Command Hook tape.
This means it can theoretically be removed without damaging your wall.
Each panel features six connection points on the back, one for each side.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
It had to be pressed against the wall for 30 seconds to ensure it was secure.
I was then able to drop in the rest of the panels based on this initial panel’s placement.
When everything was in place, I plugged the power adapter into the wall behind my TV.
Linkers are pressed into connection points to link Hexagon panels together and supply power from the power adapter.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
Here are some tips for when you do your own installation.
They work as a cool accent piece whether or not they are on.
Then, when the panels receive power, they offer an equally impressive color range.
An optional control panel provides a tangible way to make adjustments to the Nanoleaf Shapes.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
This dynamic look is helped along by the many effects available for the panels.
The Nanoleaf app (forAndroid) (foriPhone) is an even mixture of convenience and strange limitations.
Meanwhile, grouping multiple Scenes together can make a Playlist.
I installed the first Hexagon on the wall and made sure it was rotated to the correct orientation using a level.
I found some really cool options this way.
I also love that the app allows me to choose from several audio-reactive effects.
That way, when I selected different effects, it would know how best to display them.
The Nanoleaf app offers a layout assistant and plenty of customization options, but it isn’t the most intuitive program.
For instance, knowing to pulse left and right when on a reactive audio bar.
The initial pairing process between the Hexagons and my phone via a QR code didn’t go smoothly.
Even then, I eventually had to enter the pairing code manually before I got the lights to connect.
Nine rectangular sticky mounting tape pieces are included in the box and get applied to the rotating mounting plates on the back of the hexagons.
I was baffled by the amount of dust that covered the panels when I opened the box.
The app could definitely use an update that would make it more intuitive.
This wasn’t me being messy.
When off, the Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons still look like a cool accent.
No, I was baffled by the amount of dust that covered the panels when I opened the box.
In some places, it was layered on extremely thick to the point of almost being disgusting.
It seems Nanoleaf is aware of this dusty packaging since a microfiber towel is included in the box.
Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons are unique in that they can go all the way to black or to full vibrant color for cool effect.
I ended up using this towel quite a lot, and thankfully, the dust was easily removed.
A 9-pack sells for $199.99.
Looking at Nanoleaf alternatives, one of the biggest competitors in the space is Govee.
Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons can react to music and sound thanks to the built-in mic in the control panel.
This colorful lighting option also has an MSRP of $199.99.
Nanoleaf Shapes: Should you buy them?
Connect these modular light panels in any way you see fit and have them bring color to any room.
There was a lot of dust on the stack of Nanoleaf panels when I opened the box.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
A micro fiber towel is included in the box to help wipe the Nanoleaf panels down.(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Central)
Govee’s AI sync box has a beautifully reactive LED strip that matches your scene.
Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons provide a good range of vibrant color.
