As someone who has spent countless hours gaming and customizing my home setup, I must say that Nanoleaf Blocks have truly taken wall panel lights to a new level. These panels are not just a light source; they’re a statement piece that enhances the overall aesthetic of any gaming room.
As a devoted admirer of Nanoleaf, I’m thrilled to share that they’ve broadened their presence in the smart home sphere, introducing light switches, ceiling fixtures, and outdoor light strips, yet their name is still synonymous with the captivating Shapes wall panel lights among gamers. However, the latest offering, Blocks, marks a significant redesign from Nanoleaf since 2020. These panels are not only chunkier but also designed to showcase accessories and collectibles, making them appealing to a broader audience. The new panels are more powerful and emit light from their edges, now ready for purchase!
Examining the assortment of light sets, such as the Combo XL Smarter Kit by Nanoleaf, specifically sent for evaluation. The elements that piqued my curiosity were the illuminated Pegboard and Shelves, seamlessly blending with any design. Game Rant was eager to explore if there are any potential downsides associated with the most adaptable Nanoleaf smart lights yet.
Contents of Package
The Blocks Combo XL Smarter Kit ships in a square box depicting a sample layout.
When opening the package, users can locate handles within the cardboard lining, but these may seem somewhat weak upon picking up the set of nine lights. Atop the packaging, you’ll find a Quick Start Guide for easy setup. Additionally, protective sleeves have been included to shield each Block from potential scratches.
Arranged on the floor, you’ll find four regular-sized blocks, four small squares, one light pegboard, and a shelf. The controller unit is designed to be attached to one of these blocks and connected to an available power source. Other installation items are numerous, including hard plastic connectors called Linkers, large and small adhesive pads, anchors, and screws.
In addition, Nanoleaf provided a Textured Squares Expansion Pack, delivered in a compact, predominantly white package as expected. Included with the new light pieces are extra adhesive pads and Linker devices.
Installation
When it comes to installation, Nanoleaf wall panels with a Blocks configuration and shelf differ from other types. It’s wise, as usual, to check the lights at ground level before installation and plan your layout ahead of time. For Apple users, Nanoleaf offers an AR Layout Assistant for visualizing designs on walls. Unfortunately, Android users might need to measure their space carefully with a tape measure to ensure a design fits properly.
Each Block comes equipped with a bracket on its rear side, offering installers the ability to adjust the placement of the primary square for a balanced setup. This attachment also simplifies the process of reaching and replacing the double-sided tape pads. Moreover, Nanoleaf has included two Linker slots on opposite sides of the square lights, enabling adjacent Blocks to connect at an offset position. The controller can be positioned in various spots, with the white cord concealed behind one of the Blocks. The setup process for Textured Squares and smaller Blocks is similar using this method.
Designs become even more engaging when incorporating the Light Pegboard and Shelf. To install the Light Pegboard, users should employ a screwdriver to detach the light from its rear panel and mounting plate. Both components are attached to walls traditionally, with adhesive pads. After removing the back panel, marks should be made at the locations suggested by Nanoleaf to guide where to drill the included wall anchors. Once the mounting plate is reattached, the subsequent step is to fasten the panel by inserting screws into the anchors. Then, the Light Pegboard is screwed into the back panel using the same screws that were removed initially.
To securely hold items weighing up to 3.3 pounds, The Shelf needs wall anchors. It can be fitted under, between, or above Blocks for installation. Nanoleaf includes a plastic cover that conceals the tabs on the shelf and acts as a guide during setup.
Installing the Combo XL Smarter Kit is a more complex process compared to Nanoleaf Shapes or Canvas. Although the instructions aren’t overly challenging, it’s important to note that certain components necessitate wall anchors. However, the Light Pegboard, capable of supporting approximately 6.5 lbs, appeared quite stable without drilling screws into the wall. Individuals who only intend to hang light items like headphones might find they can get away with using double-sided tape instead. On the other hand, those who opt for the regular Block kits won’t encounter such concerns.
Software
Setting up the Light Pegboard and Shelf by attaching them to walls can add some complexity to the process. However, connecting the Blocks with the Nanoleaf app is a more intuitive experience. By tapping the ‘Add Device’ icon, the app should ideally detect the lights and prompt you to scan a QR code or input a pairing code. It’s advisable for buyers to keep the Quick Start Guide handy, just in case scanning the QR code on the back of the controller unit isn’t feasible. Once paired, the app understands the number of Blocks in your design and how they are interconnected. Users may need to adjust the pattern orientation to align with its wall arrangement for optimal results.
Due to the current limitations of Matter, it’s unable to handle Blocks’ intricate features beyond what’s available on Nanoleaf apps at this time. However, Google Home, Apple Home, and Alexa smart speakers and hubs can turn off Blocks and adjust simple scenes for you. It’s worth noting that Nanoleaf is planning to upgrade Blocks in the future, allowing them to function as a Thread border router.
Users of other Nanoleaf light sets will find that many of the same pre-set patterns are available. The “Molten Sunrise,” a warm reddish-orange pattern, is a practical choice for scheduling during the morning hours. The “Northern Lights” scene showcases the extensive color range of the Blocks. Other scenes, like “Energetic Beat,” flash and pulse rhythmically to loud music. Additionally, there are numerous user-generated patterns that can be downloaded, and Nanoleaf invites users to try their hand at creating unique patterns using the Scene Creator tool.
The Nanoleaf Desktop, suitable for both Macs and PCs, consistently introduces new capabilities. In a recent review by Game Rant, the Nanoleaf x Fantaqi EXPO Display Case was highlighted, with Orchestrator demonstrating its potential. Unlike earlier models that relied on external microphones to react to music, Orchestrator links to sound devices within PCs and cleverly creates visually responsive, low-latency effects. For those with RGB keyboards and mice, Nanoleaf Desktop is indispensable as it allows the Blocks to synchronize with peripherals and showcase in-game visuals. Corsair fans won’t be left behind, as iCue now supports a variety of Nanoleaf smart lights. Although the Blocks aren’t currently compatible, it seems unlikely that this won’t change in the future.
In simpler terms, the interface of the Nanoleaf app is sleeker and easier to use compared to the Govee Home app. Occasionally, there were connectivity issues with the Blocks, which could be resolved by closing and reopening the app. Fortunately, the Nanoleaf Desktop software, which was initially plagued with glitches, is improving and becoming a more reliable solution for those without desktop or laptop devices.
Design and Performance
Nanoleaf Blocks exhibit numerous enhancements, one of which is edge-to-edge lighting. At their debut, the shapes and Canvas panels were met with awe, however, there was some inconsistency in brightness across the lights. To rectify this issue, larger Blocks now produce 320 lumens per panel and distribute light evenly over entire surfaces. Besides these advancements, it’s the raw power of Blocks that truly stands out. The amount of light emitted from the front and sides of the panels is substantial, effortlessly illuminating large areas within rooms.
Using Glide Hexagon Light Panels Ultra, Govee has added a three-dimensional effect by incorporating line lighting across surfaces and dividing them into multiple zones. On the other hand, Nanoleaf Blocks create an illusion of popping out from walls due to their 1.5-inch thickness and light emitted from their sides. Additionally, the optional Textured Squares give Blocks a more substantial feel and reduce their flat appearance.
When turned off, the Light Pegboard and Shelf still capture the eye of those who typically see traditional wall panels. Yet, if you’re on the hunt for smart lights that seamlessly blend with your decor when not in use, Nanoleaf Lines or Elements are your top picks.
The Pegboard, with its distinct light patterns produced by illumination through a lattice on its body, is enhanced by Nanoleaf’s hooks that attach to numerous openings. These hooks are designed to hold various accessories, although a gaming headset is the usual choice. If users appreciate the storage capabilities of Blocks, they can opt for additional Light Pegboards. The instructions provide creative ideas for arranging them side by side and minimizing extra mounting hardware usage.
The Versatile Shelving Unit, suitable for various locations in a design scheme, serves as an attractive showcase for cherished trinkets. For compact figurines, these shallow shelves measuring about five inches deep are perfectly sufficient. Similar to the Illuminated Pegboards, passionate collectors have the option to buy additional shelves. One of the perks of this Block System is its ability to adjust to the evolving requirements of gaming and living spaces.
Blocks offer greater flexibility as they can be linked to Shape Lights, which come in varieties such as Triangles, Mini-Triangles, and Hexagons. Unlike flexible linkers, installers should use rigid connectors along with the power source from Blocks kits. Designing intricate patterns with these diverse lights may seem challenging, but innovative designers are eager to create something more than just random arrangements. With its compatibility with older smart panels, smaller Blocks, Textured Squares, Light Pegboard, and Shelf, the possibilities for the Blocks system are nearly limitless.
Regardless of using RGBW rather than RGBWW bulbs, these blocks are capable of showing various shades of white with precision. Many users might find it necessary to lower the brightness, since the extensive illumination emitted by the panels can sometimes be overpowering.
These Blocks protrude beyond the walls, creating an inviting sensation to be touched, but unlike Shapes and Canvas panels, they are not touch-sensitive. Regrettably, this means you can’t interact with them as you would with a smartphone. However, the updated physical controller has undergone a change, reducing the number of buttons while enhancing their tactile quality. This allows for simpler command inputs without requiring a separate smartphone.
Are Blocks Now the Best Wall Panels?
Regardless if buyers opt for a storage-inclusive kit or not, Blocks represent an improvement over past Nanoleaf panels. Their enhanced brightness effectively lights up entire rooms, thanks to light leaking from the thicker Block’s edges. The design possibilities are vast, particularly when Small and Textured Squares are taken into account.
For certain Nanoleaf enthusiasts, the storage features of Blocks can be both beneficial and challenging. On one hand, a Light Pegboard and Shelf are advantageous in a messy gaming room; however, setting them up is a more complex process. On the other hand, the Textured Squares easily stick to walls using common double-sided tape, giving designs a unique touch.
The blocks, while a bit pricey, are competitively priced compared to Shapes kits. It would be wise for buyers to seriously think about getting the Combo XL set-up as it fully showcases the lights’ capabilities. Regardless of choice, the blocks offer greater versatility and brightness compared to traditional smart light panels, making them a valuable upgrade option.
Related Products
| Similar Wall Light Panels | Best Choice For | Price |
| Nanoleaf Shapes Hexagons Smarter Kit | Simple installation | $165 at Amazon |
| Nanoleaf Lines Starter Kit | Subtle backlighting | $180 at Amazon |
| Govee Glide Hexagon Light Panels Ultra | 3D lighting effects | $250 at Amazon |
Nanoleaf Blocks might soon become the preferred wall panel lights for many gamers. Interestingly, the installation of Nanoleaf Shapes is quite simple and usually doesn’t necessitate a drill. For areas where backlit light bars are more suitable than bright panels, Lines are an excellent choice. Lastly, while Govee’s Glide Hexagon Light Panels Ultra come with a higher price tag, they boast multiple zones and stunning 3D effects.
FAQ
Q: Why is Nanoleaf so popular?
From its inception in 2012, Nanoleaf has been a pioneer in the realm of smart lighting technology. They boast the broadest compatibility with various smart home systems, including Matter and Thread. The brand is highly favored by gamers due to its promotion of integrations with top-selling games and synchronization with RGB accessories.
Q: What are the disadvantages of wall panel lights?
Although they often look amazing, the per-light cost of smart wall panels is often considerable. Panel lights are typically not bright enough to replace smart light bulbs and lamps. Also, depending on the installation method, removing the panels can damage walls.
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2024-10-15 04:06