Nanoleaf Blocks Review: Smart Light Panels With Shelves & Pegboards

Your wall can do more than hold a poster. It can glow, hold your stuff, and react to your music. That is the promise of Nanoleaf Blocks. These modular square panels mix smart lighting with shelves and pegboards in one system.

I spent time with the Blocks system to see if it lives up to the hype. In this review, you will learn about the design, setup, app, light quality, and price. By the end, you will know if Blocks belongs on your wall.

In a Nutshell

• Three in one wall system: Nanoleaf Blocks combines light panels, shelves, and Light Pegboards. You get lighting, storage, and display space in one setup. No other Nanoleaf product does this.
• Thicker, premium panels: Each Block is 1.1 inches deep. Older Nanoleaf Shapes are only 0.24 inches deep. The extra depth gives a softer, more 3D glow.
• Strong color range: The panels show over 16 million colors. They also offer tunable white from 1200K to 6500K. You get warm candle tones and cool daylight from the same panels.
• Wide smart home support: Blocks works with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and Homey. It also works with Razer Chroma and Overwolf for gaming.
• Pricey but flexible: Kits start around $159.99, and add ons cost extra. The modular design lets you grow your wall over time.
• Best for gamers and creators: Desk setups, streaming corners, and media rooms get the most value from Blocks.

What Are Nanoleaf Blocks?

Nanoleaf Blocks is a modular smart lighting system made of square panels. You mount them on your wall and arrange them any way you like. Each panel lights up in full color.

Blocks stands out from earlier Nanoleaf products in one big way: it does more than light up. The system includes shelves and Light Pegboards that snap into your layout. You can show off figures, plants, or headphones right on your glowing wall.

Nanoleaf has made square panels before. Canvas came out in 2018 with touch controls. Skylight followed as a ceiling light. Blocks is the newest member of this square family.

There are four panel styles in the system:

• Squares: The standard 9.1 by 9.1 inch light panel.
• Small Squares: A compact 4.5 by 4.5 inch version.
• Textured Squares: Panels with a patterned diffuser for extra texture.
• Light Pegboard: A glowing panel with holes for pegs and hooks.

You can mix all four styles in one design. Shelves attach to the layout for extra storage. This mix and match approach makes every wall unique.

Blocks also works as a Thread Border Router. This means it can connect other Thread smart devices on your home network. It is a small bonus, but it adds real value for smart home fans.

Nanoleaf Blocks Squares Smarter Kit

Last update on 2026-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Squares Smarter Kit is the most popular way to start with Blocks. It includes six large square panels, a controller, a power supply, and mounting gear. This kit gives you enough panels for a solid starter design.

Each square measures 9.1 by 9.1 by 1.1 inches. That is a bit smaller than Skylight panels, which are 12 inches per side. Six panels cover a good chunk of wall above a desk or TV.

The kit runs on 2.4 GHz WiFi. You do not need a hub to get started. Just plug it in, scan the QR code, and you are ready to go.

What I like most is the room to grow. You can add more squares, small squares, textured panels, pegboards, or shelves later. The kit acts as a base for a bigger build.

Here is what comes inside the box:

• Six large square light panels
• One Blocks controller with power, brightness, and scene buttons
• Power supply and cable
• Linkers and mounting tape

The included mounting tape holds very well. Maybe too well, in fact. Some users report paint damage when they remove the panels. Renters may want to buy 3M Command strips instead.

Overall, this kit gives you the full Blocks experience in a tidy package. It is a smart first step for anyone new to Nanoleaf.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about Blocks is the depth. Each panel sticks out 1.1 inches from the wall. This looks far more premium than the flat Nanoleaf Shapes panels.

That depth does more than look good. It lets light spread more evenly inside each panel. The result is a smooth, rich glow with fewer hot spots.

The front cover is made of matte translucent white plastic. Skylight uses a glossy cover, but Blocks uses matte. The matte finish cuts glare and looks clean when the lights are off.

Nanoleaf also redesigned the connectors. They feel snappier and more secure than older Shapes connectors. This makes mounting easier because panels stay put while you work.

Blocks uses the same connector type as the Shapes line. Some users have tried linking Blocks and Shapes together. It sort of works, but the results are mixed. The two systems look best on their own.

The controller also got a new look. It matches the thicker Blocks style. It has buttons for:

• Power
• Brightness
• Scene changes
• Music mode

One thing to note: the controller has a permanently mounted connector. This makes it secure, but harder to remove. Snap a photo of the QR code on the back before you mount it. You may need it later for a reset.

Shelves and pegboards feel sturdy too. They do not look cheap or tacked on. Everything matches as one complete design.

Top 3 Alternative for Nanoleaf Blocks

Blocks is great, but it is not the only choice. Some people want a different shape. Others want a lower price. Here are three strong alternatives worth a look.

Last update on 2026-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Nanoleaf Shapes Hexagons is a classic choice. These six sided panels create a honeycomb look on your wall. They are much thinner than Blocks at just 0.24 inches deep. They work best if you want a slim, modern look with no shelves. Shapes also has touch controls and the same Nanoleaf app.

Last update on 2026-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Govee Glide Hexa Pro gives you a 3D hexagon style at a friendlier price. Each panel has a raised design that looks like a cube. Govee uses RGBIC tech, so one panel can show more than one color at once. This is a great pick for budget gamers. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Last update on 2026-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Nanoleaf Lines take a totally different approach. Instead of panels, you get glowing light bars. Each bar has two color zones. Lines create a sharp, futuristic look behind a desk or TV. They suit people who want a minimal design that uses less wall space.

Here is a quick comparison:

• Pick Shapes Hexagons if you want a thin profile and touch control.
• Pick Govee Glide Hexa Pro if you want 3D looks on a smaller budget.
• Pick Nanoleaf Lines if you prefer bars over panels.

Each option is solid. But none of them offer shelves or pegboards. That feature is still unique to Blocks.

Panel Styles and Add Ons

The add ons make Blocks special. Nanoleaf calls it a “wall that does more.” After testing, I agree. The add ons turn a light display into a useful piece of furniture.

Here are the add on kits and their launch prices:

• Large Squares (2 panels): about $59.99
• Small Squares (4 panels): about $59.99
• Textured Squares (2 panels): about $59.99
• Shelves (2 pack): about $29.99
• Light Pegboard (1 panel): about $39.99

Shelves hold up to 3.3 pounds each. That is enough for a small plant, a figure, or a game controller. Light Pegboards hold up to 6.6 pounds. You can hang headphones, cables, or small tools on them.

Both shelves and pegboards support screw mounting for extra strength. Use screws if you plan to put real weight on them. Tape alone is fine for light items.

The Textured Squares add a fun touch. Their patterned diffuser changes how light looks. It breaks up the flat surface and adds visual interest.

Small Squares are great for filling gaps. They also help you build more detailed patterns. Mix them with large squares for a stepped or pixel art look.

The best part is freedom. You are never locked into one layout. You can rearrange panels when you move or redecorate. Your wall can change as your space changes.

Installation and Setup

Installing Blocks is simple. You do not need an electrician or any wiring. Everything plugs into a normal outlet.

Here is the basic process:

1. Plan your layout in the Nanoleaf app or on paper.
2. Connect the panels with the included linkers.
3. Stick the panels to your wall with mounting tape.
4. Attach the controller and plug in the power supply.
5. Scan the QR code in the app to pair.

The first pairing went smoothly for most reviewers. Blocks uses the same QR pairing method as other Nanoleaf products. Some users say it pairs even faster than older models.

A good tip is to use painter’s tape to mock up your design first. Tape outlines on the wall before you stick anything down. This saves you from crooked or badly spaced panels.

The included adhesive is very strong. That is good for holding panels, but bad for your paint. Use 3M Command strips if you rent or want easy removal. They cost a little extra but save a lot of wall repair.

For shelves and pegboards, screws are the safer choice. Tape works for light items. Heavier things need a firm hold.

Setup takes about 30 to 60 minutes for a six panel kit. Bigger builds take longer, mostly because of planning. Take your time on layout, and the rest is easy.

App and Smart Home Control

You control Blocks through the Nanoleaf app. It is available on phones and desktops. The app lets you change colors, pick scenes, set schedules, and build custom effects.

The app has a big library of community scenes. You can download designs made by other users. This keeps your wall fresh without much effort.

Blocks works with many smart home platforms:

• Apple Home
• Google Home
• Amazon Alexa
• Samsung SmartThings
• Homey

This means you can use voice commands. Say “turn the Blocks blue,” and your wall changes. You can also add Blocks to routines with other smart devices.

Blocks connects over 2.4 GHz WiFi. It does not support 5 GHz networks. Make sure your router has a 2.4 GHz band turned on.

As mentioned, Blocks also acts as a Thread Border Router. If you own Thread devices, Blocks can help connect them. This makes your smart home network stronger.

The app is not perfect. Some users report occasional connection drops in the past with Nanoleaf gear. Updates have improved things a lot. Still, a stable WiFi network makes a big difference.

Overall, the app is easy to use. Beginners can pick scenes in seconds. Power users can build detailed custom effects.

Light Quality and Colors

Light quality is where Blocks really shines. Each panel shows over 16 million colors. Colors look bold, rich, and even across the surface.

The thick panel design helps a lot here. Light spreads inside the deep housing before it reaches the cover. This creates a soft glow with no harsh spots.

Blocks also offers tunable white from 1200K to 6500K. That is a very wide range. At 1200K, the light looks like a warm candle. At 6500K, it looks like cool daylight.

This range makes Blocks useful beyond parties and gaming. You can set a warm glow for reading at night. You can set cool white for focus during work.

The matte cover adds to the quality. It cuts glare, so the light feels gentle on your eyes. It also looks neat when the panels are off.

Brightness is good for accent lighting. Blocks will not replace your main room lights. But as a feature wall, it makes a strong statement.

The panels work with Sync+, which links Blocks with other Nanoleaf devices. Your bulbs, strips, and panels can share one scene. This creates a matching look across the whole room.

In short, Blocks delivers some of the best color quality in the Nanoleaf lineup. The depth and diffuser make a clear difference you can see.

Music Sync, Screen Mirror and Gaming

Blocks is built with entertainment in mind. Three features stand out: Music Sync, Screen Mirror, and gaming integrations.

Music Sync uses a built in mic in the controller. The panels pulse and change with the beat of your music. Response is fast and smooth. It turns any room into a mini dance floor.

Screen Mirror works through the desktop app. It copies the colors on your computer screen onto your Blocks. Watch a movie or play a game, and your wall matches the action.

Gamers get extra perks. Blocks works with:

• Razer Chroma: Sync Blocks with your Razer keyboard, mouse, and headset.
• Overwolf: Get in game lighting effects for supported titles.

Picture this. Your health bar drops, and your wall flashes red. You score a win, and the whole setup bursts into color. That is the kind of fun Blocks adds to gaming.

The shelves and pegboards also help gamers. You can hang your headset on the pegboard. You can display controllers or collectibles on the shelves.

Streamers love this setup too. Blocks makes a great backdrop for video. It adds color and depth behind you on camera.

Music fans can also try third party apps for more advanced visuals. These apps use the fast response of Blocks to create detailed light shows.

Nanoleaf Blocks Combo Kit

Last update on 2026-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Combo Kit is the bigger option for people who want more right away. It includes ten pieces that mix different panel types. This gives you more variety from day one.

Combo kits blend large squares with other styles like small squares or textured panels. The mix creates a more dynamic design out of the box. You do not need to buy extra add ons to get a varied look.

This kit is a great match for larger walls. It works well above a big gaming desk or behind a TV. More panels mean a bigger, bolder display.

Here is why the Combo Kit makes sense:

• More variety with mixed panel sizes and styles
• Bigger coverage for larger walls
• Better value than buying add ons one by one

The Combo Kit uses the same controller, app, and features as the Squares kit. You get Music Sync, Screen Mirror, and full smart home support. You can still expand it later with shelves and pegboards.

It costs more than the six panel kit. But if you know you want a big build, it saves money in the long run. Buying in a bundle beats buying piece by piece.

If you are unsure, start with the Squares kit. If you already love the idea, the Combo Kit is the better deal.

Pricing and Value

Let’s talk money. Nanoleaf Blocks is not cheap. The base kit lists at around $159.99, with sales dropping it closer to $119.99 at times.

At launch, Smarter Kits were priced higher:

• Six panel Smarter Kit: about $199.99
• Nine panel Combo XL Smarter Kit: about $249.99

Add ons push the total higher. A shelf pack costs about $29.99. A Light Pegboard costs about $39.99. Extra panel packs cost around $59.99 each.

A full feature wall with shelves and pegboards can easily pass $300. That is a real investment for decor lighting.

So, is it worth it? It depends on what you want. If you only want colored light, cheaper brands like Govee cost less. But Blocks gives you things others do not:

• Shelves and pegboards in one lighting system
• Thicker, premium panels with a smoother glow
• Thread Border Router support
• Wide smart home support including Apple Home

Nanoleaf also backs Blocks with a two year warranty. Buying direct also gives you a 30 day return window. These protections add peace of mind.

Watch for sales. Nanoleaf often discounts Blocks during holidays. Amazon deals also pop up often. Patience can save you a good amount.

Pros and Cons

Every product has strengths and weak spots. Here is a clear breakdown of Nanoleaf Blocks.

Pros

• Three in one design combines lights, shelves, and pegboards on one wall.
• Deep 1.1 inch panels create a soft, even, premium glow.
• Over 16 million colors plus tunable white from 1200K to 6500K.
• Wide smart home support includes Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and Homey.
• Gaming integrations with Razer Chroma and Overwolf add fun effects.
• Thread Border Router helps connect other Thread devices.
• Easy setup with fast QR code pairing.
• Fully modular so you can expand and rearrange anytime.
• Two year warranty offers good protection.

Cons

• High price especially once you add extras.
• Strong adhesive can damage paint when removed.
• Only 2.4 GHz WiFi with no 5 GHz support.
• Controller is hard to remove due to its fixed connector.
• Mixing with Shapes gives mixed results.
• Not bright enough to replace main room lighting.

The pros clearly outweigh the cons for the right buyer. The biggest hurdle is price. If budget is not a concern, Blocks is easy to recommend.

Most of the cons have simple fixes. Use Command strips to protect walls. Snap a photo of the QR code before mounting. Make sure your router has 2.4 GHz turned on.

Who Should Buy Nanoleaf Blocks?

Blocks is not for everyone. But for some people, it is a perfect fit. Here is who will get the most out of it.

Gamers are the top audience. Razer Chroma and Overwolf support add immersive effects. Shelves and pegboards keep gear organized. Your battle station will look amazing.

Streamers and content creators will love the backdrop. Blocks adds color and depth on camera. The panels make your space look professional.

Collectors get real value from the shelves. Show off figures, Funko Pops, or small trophies. The glow behind them makes displays pop.

Smart home fans will enjoy the wide platform support. Blocks fits easily into Apple Home, Google Home, or Alexa setups. The Thread Border Router is a nice bonus.

Renters can use Blocks too. Just swap the included tape for Command strips. No wiring is needed.

Who should skip it?

• Budget shoppers may prefer Govee panels.
• People who want main lighting need ceiling lights instead.
• Minimalists may find Lines a better fit.

Ask yourself one question: do you want lighting that also stores and displays things? If yes, Blocks is the best choice on the market right now.

Final Verdict

Nanoleaf Blocks is one of the most creative smart lighting products available. It goes beyond pretty colors. It turns your wall into a space for lighting, storage, and display.

The thick panels look premium and glow beautifully. Colors are rich and even. The wide white range makes Blocks useful for both fun and focus.

Smart home support is excellent. Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and Homey all work. Gamers get Razer Chroma and Overwolf on top.

The shelves and pegboards are the real stars. No other major light panel brand offers this. They make Blocks practical, not just decorative.

Price is the main drawback. A full setup costs a lot. The strong adhesive also needs care.

Still, the value is clear for the right person. Gamers, streamers, and collectors will get the most out of it. Smart home fans will enjoy its flexibility.

My rating: 4.5 out of 5.

If you want a feature wall that looks great and works hard, Nanoleaf Blocks is worth it. Start with the Squares kit, then grow your design over time. Your wall will thank you.

FAQs

Does Nanoleaf Blocks need a hub?

No, Blocks does not need a hub. It connects straight to your 2.4 GHz WiFi network. You control it through the Nanoleaf app.

Can I connect Nanoleaf Blocks with Nanoleaf Shapes?

Blocks uses the same connector as Shapes. Some users have linked them, but the results are mixed. The two systems work and look best on their own.

How much weight can the shelves and pegboards hold?

Each shelf holds up to 3.3 pounds. Each Light Pegboard holds up to 6.6 pounds. Use screws for extra support with heavier items.

Does Nanoleaf Blocks work with Apple HomeKit?

Yes. Blocks works with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and Homey. You can use voice control on all of these platforms.

Will Nanoleaf Blocks damage my walls?

The included tape is very strong and may peel paint. Use 3M Command strips for safer removal. This is a smart move for renters.

Can Nanoleaf Blocks sync with my TV or PC?

Yes. Screen Mirror works through the Nanoleaf desktop app. It copies your screen colors onto the panels in real time.

What is the warranty on Nanoleaf Blocks?

Nanoleaf covers Blocks with a two year warranty. Buying direct also gets you a 30 day return window.

Is Nanoleaf Blocks good for gaming?

Yes, it is excellent for gaming. It supports Razer Chroma and Overwolf. The pegboard also gives you a handy place to hang your headset.