Over the last two years, I have slowly been gathering accessories to help create a fun and unique atmosphere for people to look at when streaming. Earlier this year, I purchased the GE LED+ Color Changing LED Hexagon Tile (6) Panels that were on sale for $19.99, which usually cost $39.99; with these on sale, I purchased four sets in order to have twenty-four panels. After taking the time to set them up, I grew to regret this purchase.

When setting up the GE Panels, each panel required another panel with a USB plug to plug into it in order to get power. Despite having set up all panels so that they had a USB connection, the device still had issues with Power being distributed unevenly and some panels refusing to turn off.

Looking back at the purchase, I wish I had considered other options, especially since I was previously leaning toward Nanoleaf. Six months later, we finally have the chance to compare Nanoleaf’s Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit and Lines 90 Degrees to the GE Hexagon tiles. Just with set up alone there was a clear difference and we will go over that in our review.

Nanoleaf Shapes Limited Edition Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit and Nanoleaf Lines 90 Degrees
Manufacturer: Nanoleaf
LED Lighting with Wireless Control
Price: $199.99 and $99.99 USD

Nanoleaf Item Thoughts

When setting up both the Nanoleaf’s Ultra Black Triangles and the Lines 90 Degrees lights, both devices were so much easier to set up than the GE Hexagons. Upon taking them out of the box, we were able to lay out both sets of lights in whichever pattern we desired and just connect the pieces together. Now with the 90-degree lines, we definitely felt rather limited on what we could design, however, with the Triangles we could do a variety of designs. With setting up the triangles, all you need is one USB port to be able to connect to another USB port opening up a variety of ways to design a layout.

Ultimately the biggest issue we had with the Triangles was the lack of USB connection pieces. Trying to create a layout and then moving it once it was designed was impossible. If you want to layout it out in advance to get an idea, that’s fine but moving it afterwards will not happen.

Once you have a design in mind, you can attach it to the wall with the thick tape stripes that Nanoleaf has provided. On the back of each panel is a little lock-like design that rotates allowing you to place the adhesive in the best way possible.  The only downside with the adhesive tape is that it requires a flat surface. If your walls have any uneven surfaces, Nanoleaf advises you put something around it to support it. For our review, we chose not to try to hang them on the wall since the walls in the house are currently textured, so we will update this review once we can hang them on a flat wall.

Set up

Both Nanoleaf lighting sets were easy to set up and figure out how to operate. For setup, you do not need to use a manual to figure it out. The only complaint we have with either device is the inability to connect one with the other through USB. Once both devices are set up with the design you like, you will need to pair it either to your phone or computer. On the computer, you can sync the lights with both the Corsair and Razer hub to control. Getting both devices to synchronize with one another can take a little bit of time to coordinate.

During our setup, we had to reset the 90-degree lines because there was a synchronicity issue. Once both devices were synched, we were able to control both devices either individually or together. On the Nanoleaf app, users can download different patterns that react either to music or have rotating colors. If the preset options aren’t enough, you can go to the Discover section and download other users’ created color designs. The app also lets you explore different options giving ideas for designs. Once you have a design and lighting effect in mind, you can schedule them to be used at certain times. This can help you wind down at the end of the day or change the mood of the party/stream.

Item Descriptions

Nanoleaf 90-Degree lines

Description

Take customization to the next degree with Lines 90 Degrees. New 90 Degree Connectors finally let you create your dream Lines layouts with right angles. Make outlines, borders, X’s, squares, or anything else made possible by these new 4-point connectors. Use them alone, or combine with Lines 60 Degrees for even more design freedom!

Specs:

• Features
  • Music Sync – Yes
  • Screen Mirror – Yes
• General
  • Luminous Flux Per Panel – 20 lumens
  • Lifetime – 25,000 hours
  • Communication Protocol – WiFi (2.4 GHz b/g/n)
  • NOTE: 5 GHz networks are not compatible with Nanoleaf products.
  • Dimmability – Yes (via Nanoleaf App, Voice, Controller)
  • Mounting Type 0 Via included double-sided tape or screw mounts (screws and anchors not included)
  • The Nanoleaf Apps – Control via Nanoleaf App (Android & iOS) for mobile/tablet or The Nanoleaf Desktop App (Windows & Mac).
  • Thread Compatibility – Yes, Lines work as Thread Border Router
  • Compatibility – Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, SmartThings, Razer Chroma, iCUE
  • Usage – Indoor Only

Shapes Limited Edition Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit

Description

[You asked, we listened; the new release of Shapes Ultra Black Triangles are EVEN DARKER than before, for a true black-out look!]

Introducing the LIMITED EDITION Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit. Triangular light panels with a 360º black finish come with everything you need—including black mounting and power accessories—to create your own statement or accent lighting. Packed with all the smart features, such as Rhythm Music Visualizer, Screen Mirror, Touch, Schedules, and more! Install on any flat surface with included Mounting Tape; no additional tools required. Compatible with all Connect+ products like Shapes and Elements (NL42/NL47/NL48/NL52 models).

• Features
  • Music Sync – Yes
  • Screen Mirror – Yes
  • Touch Control – Yes
• General
  • Luminous Flux Per Panel – 80 lumens
  • Lifetime – 25,000 hours
  • Communication Protocol – WiFi (2.4 GHz b/g/n)
  • NOTE: 5 GHz networks are not compatible with Nanoleaf products.
  • Dimmability – Yes (via Nanoleaf App, Voice, Controller)
  • Mounting Type 0 Via included double-sided tape or screw mounts (screws and anchors not included)
  • The Nanoleaf Apps – Control via Nanoleaf App (Android & iOS) for mobile/tablet or The Nanoleaf Desktop App (Windows & Mac).
  • Thread Compatibility – Yes, Lines work as Thread Border Router
  • Compatibility – Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, Controller, Nanoleaf Remote, SmartThings, Razer Chroma, iCUE
  • Usage – Indoor Only

Verdict

Going into this Nanoleaf review, we felt slightly concerned about Nanoleaf’s purchase-to-value ratio. After reviewing both the Shapes Limited Edition Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit and 90-Degree lines, we can say that the overall quality justifies the price. Compared to the GE Hexagon Panels, it was easier to set up both Nanoleaf products and both devices gave off better lighting.

Between the two products, we would have to recommend the Ultra Black Triangles over the 90-degree lines for three reasons. The first reason is that the 90-degree lines have limited options compared to the triangles. Second, what you get in the package does not feel like there is enough for its price point. The third and final issue we had with the lines was with synchronicity. On multiple occasions, the lines would not be able to be found by the app and would stick to their previous setting. On initial setup, there was an issue where the synchronicity was so off it caused an inadvertent strobing effect.

If we were going to recommend either product, we’d have to recommend the Ultra Black Triangles over the 90-degree lines. Even if you got double the amount of lines, you would still have limited design options. The Ultra Black Triangles give you the most bang for your buck. If we were reviewing them individually, the Nanoleaf 90-degree lines would get a 7.5. Meanwhile, the Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit would get a 10. Since we reviewed them together, they add up to an 8.75 but since we do not do quarter numbers for reviews, it rounds up to a 9.

Honestly, if you are looking to get LED panels for your office or house, we highly recommend Nanoleaf products over their competitors. Yes, the price might be higher but the overall quality is higher. If you have the money, then definitely go for overall quality but always keep an eye out for any sales. If you are crafty, then there are alternate ways, but that takes time and potentially learning a new skill.

The Nanoleaf 90-Degree lines and Shapes Limited Edition Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit were provided by Nanoleaf to review. Additional information about Niche Gamer’s review/ethics policy can be found here. Both the Nanoleaf 90-Degree lines and Shapes Limited Edition Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit are available now.