Nanoleaf has built a reputation for turning indoor spaces into vibrant, pulsating showcases with their innovative smart lights. Now, they’re bringing that same energy outdoors with their new Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights. Available in 49 and 98-foot lengths, these lights feature large, durable bulbs that offer a wide range of colors and soothing white hues, making them a standout addition to any patio or backyard setup.
Traditional outdoor LED lights often fall short in terms of build quality and longevity, but Nanoleaf aims to change that. While the price tag might be a bit daunting, these lights are designed to withstand the elements, from rain to snow to wind. With Matter support, they integrate seamlessly with a variety of smart devices, positioning them as a comprehensive solution for outdoor lighting needs.
Having spent a few weeks with these framing the perimeter of my back deck, I’ve come to appreciate what’s on offer. They’re not perfect, but the pros certainly outweigh the cons. Here’s a review of the Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights.
Design and Build Quality
Nanoleaf’s Outdoor String Lights set themselves apart from the typical residential string lights by offering a level of durability and quality more commonly seen in commercial-grade products. Reminiscent of the robust string lights used in professional settings such as restaurant patios, these lights are a significant upgrade in build quality.
Each light is spaced 24 inches apart on a sturdy black wire, featuring faceted E26 teardrop bulbs made from heavy-duty plastic. This thoughtful design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures a premium look and feel at a reasonable price point. The packaging, which protects each light in foam, reflects Nanoleaf’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering a high-quality product.
It’s worth noting here that these are fairly heavy when installed. You’ll probably want to suspend them from a ceiling or have multiple posts staggering things out. If you do like I initially did, and hang them at around 20 feet apart, you will find that they sag and pull on the hooks or fasteners.
Setup and Features
The setup process for the Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights is straightforward and user-friendly. Integration with the Nanoleaf Matter line makes the connection process seamless, allowing users to quickly pair the lights through the app using a QR code scan. More on that in a moment.
Once connected, the Nanoleaf app offers extensive customization options. Users can group lights into “rooms” for unified control, select from millions of colors, create dynamic color schemes, and synchronize the lights with music. Although some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, these are typically resolved by restarting the app.
The inclusion of features like Magic Scene, which uses AI technology to program scenes based on search phrases, adds a fun and interactive element. Despite some mixed results, this feature is a great addition for outdoor gatherings.
Performance and Value
In terms of performance, the Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights deliver on their promise. The faceted bulbs produce a unique and captivating light effect, with subtle color transitions and patterns that enhance any outdoor space. Whether aiming for a classy and sophisticated look or a hip and modern vibe, these lights are versatile enough to match any environment.
Priced at $199.99 for the 30 meter (98.5′) Smarter Kit and $99.99 for 15 meter (49′) extensions, these lights offer excellent value. The combination of robust build quality, smart features, and competitive pricing makes them an attractive option for those looking to invest in outdoor lighting.
The lights are IP65-rated, with the controller unit rated at IP67, ensuring they can withstand harsh weather conditions. With options for strips featuring 20 bulbs over 49 feet or 40 bulbs over 98.5 feet, expandable with additional kits, they provide ample coverage for large areas.
Each bulb is rated at 55 lumens, which might seem modest compared to some high-powered alternatives, but the overall lighting effect is both impressive and versatile.
Despite their individual brightness, the bulbs’ design ensures a broad and even light dispersion. The faceted E26 teardrop bulbs have a unique construction that helps diffuse light effectively, creating a soft and inviting glow. This balanced illumination is ideal for enhancing the ambiance of outdoor areas without overwhelming the space with excessive brightness.
The RGBICW technology in these lights allows each bulb to display a wide range of colors, including both warm and cool white hues (2700-6500K). This flexibility means the lights can be adapted to create a cozy, warm environment or a bright, energetic atmosphere. The color transitions are smooth and subtle, avoiding any harsh changes that might detract from the overall ambiance.
Smart Home Integration and Matter Compatibility
Nanoleaf’s Outdoor String Lights stand out not only for their design and performance but also for their seamless integration into the modern smart home ecosystem. With support for Matter, a universal standard for smart home devices, these lights ensure compatibility across a wide range of smart home platforms, including Google Home, Alexa, Apple Home, and SmartThings.
The integration with Matter simplifies the setup process, making it easier than ever to connect the Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights to your existing smart home system. Through a quick QR code scan, users can pair their lights with the Nanoleaf app, allowing for immediate control and customization. Matter support ensures that these lights can communicate with other Matter-enabled devices, providing a cohesive smart home experience.
Once integrated, the Nanoleaf app allows users to group their Outdoor String Lights into “rooms,” facilitating unified control over multiple light sets. The app’s interface is user-friendly, offering extensive customization options. Users can choose from millions of colors, create dynamic lighting scenes, and even synchronize the lights with music, enhancing outdoor gatherings with vibrant and responsive lighting effects.
The versatility of Matter compatibility extends beyond the Nanoleaf app. Users can control their Outdoor String Lights through various smart home platforms. This cross-platform compatibility is particularly beneficial for those who have already invested in a smart home ecosystem, as it allows for seamless integration without the need for additional hubs or complex setups.
Matter support also unlocks additional features for the Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights. Users can create schedules, set timers, and automate their lighting to fit their daily routines. For example, lights can be programmed to turn on at dusk and off at dawn, providing both convenience and energy savings. Furthermore, the integration with Matter-compatible apps ensures that users can access these features even if they prefer not to use the Nanoleaf app.
As the smart home industry evolves, Matter aims to provide a reliable and future-proof standard for device compatibility. By adopting Matter, Nanoleaf has ensured their Outdoor String Lights will remain compatible with new smart home technologies and platforms, offering consumers a long-term investment in their smart home infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
The Nanoleaf Outdoor String Lights represent a significant step forward in outdoor smart lighting. Their design, ease of setup, and performance make them a compelling choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. Despite minor connectivity issues, the initial quality and functionality provide optimism for long-term satisfaction.
For consumers seeking to enrich their outdoor environments with durable and smart lighting, Nanoleaf’s latest offering is worth considering. They blend well with both existing Nanoleaf products and various smart home ecosystems, providing a comprehensive lighting solution for any outdoor space.
As they face the test of time, particularly in challenging Ohio winter conditions, its initial quality and functionality give me optimism for long-term satisfaction. I don’t see anything here that concerns me about leaving them out for the spring, summer, and fall season.
For consumers seeking to enrich their outdoor environments with smart, durable lighting, Nanoleaf’s latest offering is worth considering. They’re just as solid as other products I’ve tested and spent time with and do a great job blending features and capabilities.
