• You're one step from joining Home Automation Forum – Smart Home Setups, IoT Devices & Security.
    Create a free account to post, follow threads, and never miss an update.  Sign up free →

TV backlight with HyperHDR and Pi

wcyD

Member
Joined
Jun 28, 2025
Messages
5
Built a DIY setup with a Pi 4, HyperHDR and WS2812B strip behind my 65" for some TV mood lighting. It works great with the PS5, but I'm curious if Nanoleaf 4D is smoother with built-in apps.
 
Last edited:
I wouldn't say smoother, but I'll say more beginner friendly. It works and you won't have to do too much to set it up. Since you already have your pi 4 set up, I would keep it as it is and do the occasional tweak just to keep it running as you want it to.
 
This is a very useful distinction between beginner friendly and actual performance. I do value the deep customization options in HyperHDR over a plug and play system.
 
For me Nanoleaf 4D offers smoother syncing with built-in apps and HDMI passthrough, especially for streaming boxes or smart TVs but DIY rig probably has more flexibility to tinker or customize effects.
 
My current rig works well with external sources like the PS5 but you're right that it cannot see what the TV's native apps are doing. I'm committed to the flexibility of the HyperHDR system and enjoy the customization it offers.

Has anyone found a dependable method for getting video from internal smart TV apps to a Pi based HyperHDR setup? I've read about certain HDMI grabbers or other devices that might work.
 
Getting your Pi 4 set up should be pretty straightforward, especially if you've those capture settings properly. One of the coolest things about using Nanoleaf is that it cuts out the need for the HDMI capture step when you're using built-in apps.
 
When it comes to gaming and using outside sources, your HyperHDR setup definitely takes the crown. But if you're just streaming Netflix through the TV app, you might find that Nanoleaf gives you a much smoother experience.
 
Built a DIY setup with a Pi 4, HyperHDR and WS2812B strip behind my 65" for some TV mood lighting. It works great with the PS5, but I'm curious if Nanoleaf 4D is smoother with built-in apps.
Nanoleaf 4D is super easy to use and syncs well with other stuff right away. But if you want seriously fast and accurate lighting, especially when gaming, stick with HyperHDR. To spice things up, think about adding Nanoleaf panels or bulbs to your setup for cool background vibes, while HyperHDR handles the core lighting.
 
I've noticed a clear pattern in our discussion. @2GDroxxy and @_brentyy match my own experience that HyperHDR works best for low latency gaming. It also seems most people agree that Nanoleaf is better for built in smart TV apps, as mentioned by @mawi_ and @2GDroxxy. That's exactly the issue I'm trying to address.

I found @_brentyy's suggestion about making a hybrid system really interesting. When you talk about adding Nanoleaf panels for background effects, do you mean having them run on their own for room ambiance? I'm also curious if HyperHDR can control Nanoleaf products directly so everything stays in sync.

Over the next few weeks, I'll explore this hybrid idea and investigate HDMI matrix switches to determine if they can resolve the video signal issue. My main question about capturing video from internal apps is still unanswered, so I'll keep this thread open for now.
 
Honestly, your current setup is likely doing a solid job. The 4D might be easier to manage and play nicer with smart TVs. But if you're cool with how things are and like tinkering, your current setup probably gives you more control in the end.
 
Back
Top