A comprehensive guide to Nanoleaf’s Shapes and Elements collections – turning your walls into living canvases.
Introduction
Some lighting illuminates a room. Nanoleaf transforms it. These aren’t just lights – they’re modular art installations that pulse with your music, react to your touch, and turn your walls into ever-changing canvases.
Nanoleaf didn’t just invent smart light panels – they perfected them. Since the original Aurora, they’ve been the premium choice for those who see walls as opportunities, not boundaries.
The Shapes and Elements collections represent two distinct philosophies:
- Shapes – Vibrant, colourful, playful. RGBW panels in Hexagons, Triangles, and Limited Edition Ultra Black finishes. For gamers, creatives, and anyone who wants their walls to dance.
- Elements – Natural, elegant, serene. Wood-look hexagons with warm white light only. For living rooms, bedrooms, and those who want smart lighting that looks like sophisticated decor when off.
In this guide, we’ll explore every Nanoleaf Shape and Element available on Amazon UK:
Shapes Collection:
- Shapes Hexagons Starter Kit (9 Panels) – The classic, vibrant hexagons
- Shapes Triangles Starter Kit (9 Panels) – Sharp angles for geometric designs
- Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons (Limited Edition) – Stealth black for dark walls
- Shapes Ultra Black Triangles (Limited Edition) – Dark elegance for modern spaces
Elements Collection:
- Elements Hexagon Starter Kit (7 Panels) – Wood-look natural elegance
- Elements Hexagon Expansion Pack (3 Panels) – Grow your wooden canvas
Quick Reference Comparison Table
| Product | Shape | Finish | Panels | Light Type | Brightness (per panel) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shapes Hexagons Starter Kit | Hexagon | White | 9 | RGBW (16M+ colours) | 100 lm | Gaming, colourful spaces |
| Shapes Triangles Starter Kit | Triangle | White | 9 | RGBW (16M+ colours) | ~80-100 lm | Geometric designs, pixel art |
| Shapes Ultra Black Hexagons | Hexagon | Matte Black | 9 | RGBW (16M+ colours) | 100 lm | Dark walls, stealth look |
| Shapes Ultra Black Triangles | Triangle | Matte Black | 9 | RGBW (16M+ colours) | ~80 lm | Modern interiors, gaming |
| Elements Hexagon Starter Kit | Hexagon | Wood look | 7 | Warm white only (1200K-6500K) | ~100 lm | Living rooms, natural decor |
| Elements Expansion Pack | Hexagon | Wood look | 3 | Warm white only | ~100 lm | Expanding Elements setups |
Related: Nanoleaf 4D Smart light strips | Govee outdoor smart lighting
The Nanoleaf Ecosystem – What Makes Them Special
Core Technologies
Ecosystem Integration
| Platform | Shapes | Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Apple HomeKit | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Alexa | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Google Assistant | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Samsung SmartThings | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Razer Chroma | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| IFTTT | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Matter | ⚠️ Some models | ❌ No |
Nanoleaf Shapes – The Colourful Canvas
Shapes Hexagons Starter Kit (9 Panels)
Model: NL017 / Various
Overview
The Hexagons are Nanoleaf’s most popular shape – and for good reason. Their six-sided form offers incredible flexibility for creating organic, flowing designs that feel natural on walls .
Key Specifications
Related: Nanoleaf smart Blocks | Guide to the best smart neon rope lights
What Makes It Special
LayoutDetect Technology
Nanoleaf’s exclusive software maps your exact panel arrangement, allowing colour animations to flow intelligently between panels based on their actual positions. A wave of colour can travel across your design naturally.
Touch Interactions
Each panel is touch-sensitive. You can:
- Tap to change scenes
- Swipe to adjust brightness
- Play interactive games (built-in)
Screen Mirror
The desktop app (Windows/Mac) analyses your screen content and mirrors it onto your panels . Gaming becomes immersive; movies extend beyond the monitor.
Rhythm Module
Built-in music visualisation makes panels dance to your tunes – perfect for parties .
Connect+ Technology
Mix Hexagons with Triangles from the Shapes line to create truly unique mosaics .
Pros and Cons
Who Should Buy Hexagons?
Ideal for: Gamers, creative spaces, home offices, anyone wanting vibrant wall art that changes with their mood.
Not ideal for: Those wanting room illumination (these are accent lights), budget buyers, very textured walls.
Shapes Triangles Starter Kit (9 Panels)
Overview
Triangles offer sharper, more geometric design possibilities. Their angular form is perfect for creating patterns, pixel art, and designs with precise edges .
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panels | 9 Triangles |
| Brightness | ~80-100 lumens per panel |
| Colour | RGBW – 16 million+ colours |
| White temperature | 1200K-6500K |
| Connectivity | WiFi 2.4GHz |
| Control | App, Touch, Voice |
What Makes It Special
Geometric Precision
Triangles allow for more angular designs – stars, arrows, complex geometric patterns that hexagons can’t achieve .
Pixel Art Potential
The triangular shape is excellent for creating pixel-art style designs, with each triangle acting as a “pixel” in a larger image.
Same Features as Hexagons
All the core Nanoleaf technology is present:
- LayoutDetect
- Touch control
- Rhythm Module
- Screen Mirror
- Connect+ compatibility
Pros and Cons
Who Should Buy Triangles?
Ideal for: Those wanting sharp, angular designs, pixel art enthusiasts, anyone who finds hexagons “too soft”.
Not ideal for: Those preferring organic, flowing designs.
Nanoleaf Shapes Ultra Black – The Stealth Edition
Ultra Black Hexagons Starter Kit (9 Panels)
Overview
The Limited Edition Ultra Black Hexagons swap the standard white for a deep matte black finish. Designed for dark walls and gaming rooms where you want the panels to almost disappear when off .
Key Specifications
What Makes It Special
Stealth Aesthetic
When off, these panels blend into dark walls almost invisibly. When on, colours pop against the black background .
Gaming Room Perfect
For dark-themed gaming setups, Ultra Black panels look far more sophisticated than white alternatives.
Limited Edition
These are special releases – not always available. Adds exclusivity.
Design Considerations
Pros and Cons
Who Should Buy Ultra Black Hexagons?
Ideal for: Dark-walled rooms, gaming setups, those wanting panels to blend when off.
Not ideal for: Light walls, those bothered by fingerprints.
Ultra Black Triangles Starter Kit (9 Panels)
Overview
The triangular version of the Ultra Black line. Same stealth aesthetic, sharper geometry .
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Finish | Matte black |
| Panels | 9 Triangles |
| Brightness | ~80 lumens per panel |
| Colour | RGBW – 16 million+ colours |
| Connectivity | WiFi 2.4GHz |
| Control | App, Touch, Voice |
What Makes It Special
Best of Both Worlds
Combines the geometric precision of triangles with the stealth aesthetic of Ultra Black.
Fingerprint Considerations
Same fingerprint issues as the hexagons – keep that cloth handy .
Pros and Cons
Who Should Buy Ultra Black Triangles?
Ideal for: Dark-walled gaming rooms, those wanting angular designs that blend when off.
Not ideal for: Light walls, fingerprint-phobes.
Nanoleaf Elements – The Natural Canvas
Elements Hexagon Starter Kit (7 Panels)
Overview
Elements represents a completely different philosophy. No RGB colours. No touch games. Just elegant wood-look hexagons that provide warm, tunable white light. Designed for living rooms, bedrooms, and spaces where wood decor belongs.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panels | 7 Hexagons (wood look) |
| Light type | Warm white only – tunable 1200K-6500K |
| Colours | No RGB – whites and ambers only |
| Brightness | ~100 lumens per panel |
| Touch control | ❌ No (physical buttons on controller) |
| Music sync | ✅ Yes |
| Screen Mirror | ❌ No |
| Circadian Lighting | ✅ Yes – auto colour temp adjustment |
| Connectivity | WiFi 2.4GHz |
| Control | App, Voice, Physical buttons |
What Makes It Special
Wood Look Aesthetic
When off, Elements look like natural wood decor pieces – not tech. They blend into living spaces beautifully .
Circadian Lighting
Auto-adjusts colour temperature throughout the day:
- Morning: Bright, cool white for alertness
- Evening: Warm, amber glow for relaxation
- Night: Dim, ultra-warm for sleep preparation
Curated Scenes
- Fireplace – Warm, flickering glow like a real fire
- Waterfall – Cool, flowing white light
- Sunset – Gradual amber transition
Living Room Appropriate
Unlike Shapes’ gaming aesthetic, Elements belong in grown-up spaces – living rooms, dining rooms, master bedrooms .
Pros and Cons
Who Should Buy Elements?
Ideal for: Living rooms, master bedrooms, design-conscious adults, those wanting circadian lighting, anyone who finds RGB “too much”.
Not ideal for: Gamers, kids’ rooms, those wanting colourful effects, budget buyers.
Elements Hexagon Expansion Pack (3 Panels)
Overview
Add three additional wood-look panels to your existing Elements setup .
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panels | 3 Hexagons (wood look) |
| Compatibility | Elements Starter Kit only |
| Light type | Warm white only |
| Includes | Panels, connectors, adhesive pads |
What You Need to Know
- Requires existing Elements Starter Kit (cannot be used alone)
- Same wood-look aesthetic
- Expands your design possibilities
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Grow your design | Expensive per panel |
| Maintains aesthetic consistency | Only works with Elements |
| Easy to add |
UK Installation Guide
Wall Types and Mounting
Installation Steps
- Plan your design
- Prepare surface
- Clean wall with alcohol wipe (included)
- Ensure completely dry
- Smooth surface essential
- Attach mounting plates
- Connect panels
- Snap linkers between panels
- Attach controller
- Connect power
- Mount panels
- Click panels onto mounting plates
- Ensure all connections secure
- Set up app
Important UK Notes
User Installation Experiences
Shapes vs Elements – Which Is Right for You?
Comparison Matrix
| Factor | Shapes | Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic when off | White/black plastic | Wood-look decor |
| Aesthetic when on | Vibrant RGB colours | Warm white ambiance |
| Best room | Gaming room, kids’ room, office | Living room, bedroom, dining room |
| Fun factor | High – games, touch, screen mirror | Low – elegant, calming |
| Gaming sync | Excellent (Screen Mirror) | None |
| Music sync | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Circadian lighting | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Touch control | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Price | £170-200 | £200-220 |
| Target audience | Gamers, creatives | Design-conscious adults |
The Verdict
Choose Shapes if:
- You’re a gamer (Screen Mirror is transformative)
- You want vibrant colours and dynamic effects
- You enjoy touch interactions and party features
- The room is a “fun” space (gaming room, kids’ room, home office)
- You want to create RGB wall art
Choose Elements if:
- The room is a living room, dining room, or master bedroom
- You want lighting that looks like decor when off
- Circadian lighting appeals to you
- Wood aesthetics match your interior
- You find RGB “too much” for the space
The Ultimate Home: Both
For those with the budget and space, combine them:
- Shapes in the gaming room or home office
- Elements in the living room or master bedroom
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem 1: App Can’t Find Panels
Symptoms: App searches but doesn’t detect panels.
Solutions:
- Ensure phone on 2.4GHz WiFi (not 5GHz)
- Perform discovery reset on controller
- Check for QR code on inlay sheet (not box)
- Update firmware via app
Problem 2: Panels Won’t Connect to WiFi
Symptoms: Panels discovered but fail to connect.
Solutions:
- Network must be 2.4GHz only
- Move router closer during setup
- Check firewall settings
- Reset controller and try again
Problem 3: Panels Falling Off Wall
Symptoms: Panels detach, especially after months .
Solutions:
- Clean wall thoroughly before installation
- Consider screw mounting for heavy designs
- Use 3M Command strips as alternative
- Check adhesive temperature rating
Problem 4: Alexa/Google Not Discovering
Symptoms: Voice assistants can’t find panels .
Solutions:
- Re-link Nanoleaf skill
- Ensure panels on same network as speaker
- Check firmware is updated
- Some users report persistent issues
Problem 5: Uneven Lighting
Symptoms: Panels not uniformly lit, dark corners .
Solutions:
- This is normal to some extent
- Check panel connections
- Ensure panels not damaged
- Contact support if severe
UK Price Comparison
| Product | Typical UK Price | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Shapes Hexagons Starter Kit | £180-200 | Amazon UK, Currys, John Lewis |
| Shapes Triangles Starter Kit | £170-190 | Amazon UK, Currys |
| Ultra Black Hexagons | £180-200 | Amazon UK (limited) |
| Ultra Black Triangles | £170-190 | Amazon UK (limited) |
| Elements Starter Kit | £200-220 | Amazon UK, John Lewis |
| Elements Expansion Pack | £70-90 | Amazon UK |
The Verdict – Painting Your Walls with Light
For Gamers: Shapes Ultra Black or Standard
The combination of Screen Mirror, Razer Chroma integration, and vibrant RGB makes Shapes the ultimate gaming room accessory. Ultra Black for dark walls, standard white for light spaces.
For Living Rooms: Elements
Elements bring smart lighting to grown-up spaces. The wood-look finish when off is sophisticated; the warm white when on is inviting. Circadian lighting adds genuine wellness benefits .
For Creative Souls: Shapes Triangles
The geometric precision of triangles offers unique design possibilities. Mix with hexagons using Connect+ technology for truly original wall art.
For the Discerning: Ultra Black
The limited edition black finish is genuinely striking on dark walls. Yes, fingerprints are an issue, but the aesthetic when clean is unmatched .
Related Reading
- [The Rainbow Revolution: Govee’s RGBIC Universe Explained]
- [Lighting Reimagined: Govee’s Smart Lamp Collection]
- [Best Smart LED Ceiling Panels: UK Buyer’s Guide]
- [Colour Smart Bulbs for Gaming: Transform Your Setup]
- [Nanoleaf 4D light strips – Smart wall Decorations]
