Nanoleaf Shapes (Hexagons)
VERDICT
Nanoleaf remains the king of decorative smart lighting. The "Shapes" line fixes every complaint from the older models: they are thinner, brighter, and easier to mount. The ability to mix and match Hexagons with Triangles allows for limitless creativity. It's expensive wall art, but it completely transforms the vibe of a room.
The Big Picture
Ordinary lights just illuminate a room; Nanoleaf Shapes define it. These modular panels snap together using small linkers. You mount them to the wall with included double-sided tape (no drilling required). Once connected, they act as a single canvas that can display millions of colors, mimic a fireplace, or pulse to the beat of your Spotify playlist.
👆 Touch Actions
Smart Controls: The panels are touch-sensitive.
The Magic: You can program them so that a double-tap on a specific hexagon turns off all the lights in your house, or a swipe up increases the brightness. It effectively turns your wall art into a giant smart home button.
🎵 Rhythm Music Visualizer
Party mode activated.
Performance: The built-in microphone listens to your music and animates the lights in real-time. Unlike cheap competitors, the animations are smooth and sophisticated. Bass beats ripple outwards from the center, creating a hypnotic effect perfect for gaming setups or parties.
✅ The Pros
- Modular: Connect+ technology lets you mix Hexagons, Triangles, and Mini Triangles.
- Thread Border Router: Acts as a hub to improve your smart home's reliability.
- Screen Mirror: Can mirror your PC screen colors for immersive gaming.
- Mounting: Improved snap-on mounting plate makes removal easier without peeling paint.
❌ The Cons
- Price: A starter kit of 7 panels costs ~$200, which is pricey for "decoration."
- Cable: You still have a white power cord hanging from one of the panels (hard to hide).
- Uneven Light: Corners of the hexagons are slightly dimmer than the center.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you want to add personality to a boring white wall or build a streamer-style gaming room.
NO if you prefer subtle, backlit lighting (get the Nanoleaf Lines or Govee Glide instead).
See the showdown: Nanoleaf Shapes vs. Govee Glide Hexa Comparison