Level Up Your Gaming Experience with the Ultimate Govee AI Sync Box and Strip Light Review!

Quick Links

Installation

Software

Performance

Conclusion

Related Products

Previously, smart lights were only capable of being controlled through a wireless switch or mobile phone, offering a limited thrill. However, the introduction of colored LEDs in light strips placed on the back of TVs and monitors has expanded the possibilities. With the advancements in screen mirroring technology, movies and games now benefit from enhanced responsiveness. The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box for TVs takes this experience to the next level by connecting HDMI sources and producing light effects on an attached strip that perfectly match the content with utmost color accuracy.

The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box for monitors was reviewed by Game Rant a few months ago, where it was acknowledged as a leap forward in reactive lighting capabilities. Recently, Govee has announced new kits specifically designed for TVs ranging from 55 to 85 inches. These kits bring several improvements, including expanded support for games through Govee's AI CogniGlow, which enables customizable RGBIC lighting effects triggered by in-game achievements. Furthermore, the integration of DreamView allows users to effortlessly synchronize TV backlighting with other Govee smart lights, making it an enticing proposition.

Game Rant got the chance to try out the Govee AI Sync Box on an 85-inch TV, courtesy of Govee. While the results were largely as expected, there are several reasons why this device could be a more suitable option for a home theater rather than a gaming setup.

$200 $260 - Save $60 on the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box, the ultimate solution for filling gaming and living rooms with stunning RGBIC lighting. With the advanced CogniGLow algorithm, Govee offers a truly intelligent experience by generating personalized lighting effects based on in-game content and events on select PC titles. Say goodbye to delayed reactive lighting with the sync box's ability to connect to 3 HDMI 2.0 sources, surpassing camera-based lighting systems. Experience seamless coordination of lighting across multiple Govee light strips, panels, and bulbs with DreamView 360 syncing. Available in various sizes to fit 55 to 85-inch TVs, the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box is a game-changer.

Brand: Govee

Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant

Protocol‎: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Hub Required: No

Music Reactive: Yes

Voltage: 12 Volts

Wattage: 60 Watts

Pros: Faster responses to scene changes

Sync box blends in with other HDMI components

Support for game-specific lighting effects has improved

DreamView combines the power of multiple Govee lights

Much easier to achieve color accuracy than with cameras

Cons HDMI 2.1 and VRR support still lacking

More expensive than other screen mirroring kits

Sync box could be refined for a home theater setup

$200 at Amazon $200 at Govee

Contents of Package

The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box and Light Strip for TVs ship in a rectangular black box which indicates what size displays the light strip is appropriate for.

The various parts are packed in several different smaller boxes, making for a neat and tidy presentation.

Inside the mostly black packaging are the sync box, light strip, a pair of HDMI cables, power adapter, mounting clips, and manual.

Installation

Users familiar with installing Govee light strips will find the setup process fairly predictable, but the introduction of the sync box adds a new twist. Prior to connecting the HDMI sync box to the various components, it's possible to test the lights using the box's power and scene change buttons. Thankfully, the light strip and LEDs on the front panel of the sync box lit up successfully, indicating it was time to proceed with installing the system on a TV.

Installing the light strip on the 85-inch Sony Bravia 4K LED TV, which was already mounted on the wall, presented some challenges. However, the strip proved to be sufficiently long to wrap around the TV's edges, with the aid of flexible pieces of small rope to separate the different segments. To ensure a secure application, Govee recommends starting by cleaning the area with the provided alcohol prep pads. Afterward, simply remove the protective material from the back of the light strip and firmly press it into place.

The mounting clips are essential in preventing the ends of each segment and the excess material at each corner from popping up. Thankfully, the strip provided was adequately long for this sizable TV. However, if it is positioned too closely to the edges of a comparable display, the installer may need to retry the setup.

The light strip connects to the backside of the sync box using a USB Type-C port. However, the USB cable at the end of the light strip is too short to reach the sync box comfortably without putting strain on the port. This issue is likely only for kits designed for larger TV sizes. Fortunately, an extension cable can be used to manage the cables in this setup, although not all buyers may have one available. On the other hand, the power cord only needs to run from the sync box to a wall outlet, making it easier to hide.

Typically, when using TV backlit kits, users prefer to hide the control box behind the display. However, since the sync box has its own LED lights, it's more suitable to showcase it as a centerpiece or at least as a visible component on a TV stand.

To test out Govee's backlighting system, we utilized an NVIDIA Shield media player and PS5 console as the primary sources. It is worth noting that for rooms with large OLED or LED TVs, the Govee kit does not offer RF or IR remote control functionality. Therefore, viewers will need to either press the button on the front of the box or utilize the Govee home app to switch sources. In our case, this issue was resolved by using an AV receiver to manage HDMI source switching and directing the receiver's output to a single input on the sync box's rear. By using one of the provided HDMI cables, we connected the sync box's output port to an HDMI input on the left side of the Sony TV.

Once the physical installation is complete, the remainder of the setup can be done through the Govee Home app.

Upon launching the app, it will initially scan the surrounding area to detect any newly available devices. Subsequently, users will be prompted to press a button on the front of the synchronization box to establish a secure connection. Additionally, in order to have control over the lighting system beyond the confines of the app, a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network is imperative. Unlike conventional backlighting solutions, like the Govee Envisual TV T2 that necessitate affixing orange blocks to the corners of the television for calibration, this app employs a different approach. It projects various colors onto specific segments of the lights to discern the orientation of the light strip. The software installation process is remarkably rapid and uncomplicated, and once completed, users are presented with an extensive array of choices and configurations to customize the newly paired device.

Software

On the main screen of the Govee Home app, users are presented with a wealth of information related to the brand's smart lights. The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box and Light Strip for TV are no exception to this. Of particular importance are the various modes available, including Music, Video, Color, Scene, and DIY.

Buyers have the option to choose from a selection of pre-designed lighting scenes or create their own. However, the key feature of this backlighting kit is its ability to mirror the screen in Video mode. Gamers will especially appreciate the capability to enable AI Identification for popular titles like League of Legends, Apex Legends, and Overwatch 2. When the first Govee AI Sync Box kits for monitors were launched, only two games were supported. However, the company has followed through on its promise to continuously add more games to the software.

There is a wide range of in-game events that the sync box can detect and respond to. Additionally, users have the ability to personalize the lighting effects that are triggered by kills, victories, and defeats. For individuals who are not avid gamers, they can choose to disable the AI Identification option and avoid experiencing any random flashes of light while watching TV shows and movies.

In the Govee app, there are additional options such as saturation and sensitivity sliders, as well as more advanced color calibration settings. Move Watching DreamView allows synchronized responses from compatible Govee light strips and bulbs to changing images on a screen. One often overlooked feature is the Snapshot List, which saves app settings as a backup for users to experiment with the lights.

Although criticisms about the cluttered Govee Home app are valid, finding the essential functions becomes intuitive with more frequent use. However, the annoyance of short delays when connecting the app to a device with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi persists, a problem shared by other smart home apps.

Performance

The Govee AI Sync Box stands out for its ability to instantly react to changes in scenes and intelligently respond to game actions. Unlike screen mirroring kits that rely on cameras, which can be slow in comparison, the Govee AI Sync Box offers higher accuracy by reading directly from an HDMI video signal. However, this improved experience is not without its drawbacks. Factors such as room lighting and glare still affect the accuracy of the Govee AI Sync Box.

Easily found on YouTube, there are several test patterns that can effectively demonstrate the speed and accuracy of the AI Sync Box in interpreting colors from HDMI signals. One such test involved a rainbow color pattern, which allowed for easy discernment of the subtle variations in each hue. The RGBIC light strip effortlessly adjusted to project the vibrant colors onto the wall behind the TV.

The all-white screen emits a radiant glow, with the warmth or coolness of the effect influenced by color saturation. Capturing the sync box's response to a black screen was extremely challenging, resulting in an appropriately dark light strip.

The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box enhances the visual experience of animated movies by intensifying the vibrant purples and reds. While the sync box effectively mirrors the lighting effects, viewers' attention will naturally be drawn to the captivating screens.

Along the same lines, blue hues made the adjacent wall seem like an extension of the ocean on the screen.

In contrast to the Nanoleaf 4D and its backlighting solutions, the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box exhibited smoother color transitions when faced with intricate imagery. However, the overall visual impact appeared slightly subdued, even with adjustments made to increase brightness or enhance color saturation.

Of course, gaming is also a significant test of the capabilities of Govee's sync box. The lighting system will seamlessly replicate the lighting effects of any game, just as it does with TV shows and movies. However, it becomes an entirely unique and immersive experience when the device activates its advanced CogniGlow algorithms to synchronize with one of the games enlisted in the Govee Home app.

For any avid gamer seeking a quick glimpse of the myriad lighting effects in a game such as Apex Legends, watching highlight videos provides an equally immersive experience to actually playing on a PC or console. Among the most frequently encountered effects is the dramatic display that occurs when a player eliminates an opponent or meets their own demise.

In League of Legends, this AI-powered reactive lighting is so advanced that the sync box can recognize when a specific monster is eliminated like Cloud Drake.

In games like Overwatch 2, the number of in-game triggers may be limited compared to other popular games. However, as a player goes on a kill streak, the intensity of these triggers can still increase.

During competitive gaming, it can be challenging to distinguish between certain lighting effects. This difficulty persists until players become familiar with using the AI Sync Box. Nevertheless, the flashing and cycling colors likely enhance the experience for spectators. Additionally, there is potential for teams and clans to customize the effects, using them as illuminated celebrations for victories in competitive tournaments.

Note: The revised content has been rephrased for clarity and coherence.

Many of the games compatible with the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box prioritize PC platforms, although a few are also accessible on consoles. While this isn't problematic for gaming monitors, it does create complexities for a setup intended for large-screen TVs in rooms where gamers may not have immediate access to their gaming equipment.

Govee's smart lights now offer enhanced DreamView functionality as one of their latest features. This innovative concept allows users to connect multiple Govee lights, transforming an entire room into a captivating screen-mirrored funhouse. During our evaluation of the AI Gaming Sync Box, we conveniently found a compatible light strip positioned below the TV along the floorboards.

To use DreamView, users need to allocate segments of a connected light or light strip to specific areas in the room. The sync box then coordinates the effects across the entire designated area. While the setup process can be somewhat time-consuming, the end results are truly worthwhile, especially if the brightness settings are adjusted to avoid overwhelming spectators.

The AI Gaming Sync Box still experiences some connectivity limitations that were present when it was first introduced to the market. While it does support HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, it lacks support for HDMI 2.1, which means it cannot handle 4K signals at 120 Hz and VRR. However, for media and living rooms that do not have the latest graphics cards, the lack of DisplayPort compatibility is not a major concern.

When using the NVIDIA Shield and PS5 with the AI Gaming Sync Box, the overall experience is generally smooth. However, there are instances where it takes a few seconds longer than usual for an image to display. Interestingly, during these delays, the sync box would actually mirror the lighting of a new scene on its LEDs before it appeared on the TV.

Conclusion

Govee AI Sync Box and Light Strip for TVs

$200 $260 Save $60

Experience the ultimate in intelligent lighting with the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box. Designed to enhance gaming and living spaces, this innovative device utilizes the advanced CogniGLow algorithm to create personalized lighting effects based on in-game content and events. Unlike camera-based systems, the sync box connects directly to 3 HDMI 2.0 sources, eliminating any delay in reactive lighting. Additionally, with DreamView 360 syncing, you can seamlessly coordinate lighting across a variety of existing Govee light strips, panels, and bulbs. Available in different sizes for 55 to 85-inch TVs, the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box is the perfect addition to your entertainment setup.

Brand: Govee

Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant

Protocol: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Hub Required: No

Music Reactive: Yes

Voltage: 12 Volts

Wattage: 60 Watts

Pros: Improved responsiveness to scene changes

Sync box blends in with other HDMI components

Support for game-specific lighting effects has improved

DreamView combines the power of multiple Govee lights

Much easier to achieve color accuracy than with cameras

Cons HDMI 2.1 and VRR support still lacking

More expensive than other screen mirroring kits

Sync box could be refined for a home theater setup

$200 at Amazon $200 at Govee

With a promised 99 percent color accuracy, the Govee AI Gaming Sync Box for TVs delivers an incredibly immersive screen mirroring experience. It seamlessly blends in with other components in a media room, surpassing the effectiveness of cameras mounted on TVs. While the system operates similarly to previous AI Gaming Sync Box kits for monitors, it truly shines when utilized with setups apart from PCs. With its HDMI compatibility, the sync box effortlessly connects to HDMI-dominated home theater configurations without any complications. However, there are a few areas where Govee's sync box could be enhanced, such as providing a longer USB-C cable and incorporating universal remote support.

The installation process for this screen-mirroring solution can be quite tedious, but it eliminates the need to calibrate a camera, which can be frustrating. By eliminating variables like room lighting, any potential buyer can have confidence that the content will be accurately displayed on the light strip.

It is worth noting that Govee's AI Sync Box keeps improving over time. Initially, support for popular games was limited, but it now covers more of the most popular competitive FPS and MOBA titles. The AI CogniGlow feature recognizes important in-game events and enhances the excitement of victory and disappointment of defeat with customizable RGBIC lighting effects. Additionally, DreamView, available in the Govee Home app, allows users to combine the illumination from multiple smart lights to create a stunning gaming room spectacle.

Related Products

The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box for TVs has few competitors, with the Philips Play HDMI Sync Box being one viable alternative. However, the Play Sync Box lacks gaming-specific features and requires separate purchases of a hub and expensive light strip. Despite user requests, the aging Play Sync Box has not yet been upgraded to meet HDMI 2.1 specifications. Nevertheless, fans of the Hue lighting ecosystem may be attracted to this device, which is part of a family of high-quality and durable smart lights.

In addition to HDMI sync boxes, there are more affordable options for screen mirroring using camera-powered kits. One such system is Govee's Envisual TV Backlight T2, which addresses the limitations of previous cameras by introducing a dual-lens configuration. Although it still falls short of the responsiveness of the AI Gaming Sync Box, these improvements result in enhanced color accuracy and motion tracking.

Finally, Nanoleaf jumps into the reactive backlighting market with its latest offering, the Nanoleaf 4D. This innovative product boasts a versatile camera that can be effortlessly mounted above or below a TV, catering to displays of up to 85 inches in size. According to a recent review by Game Rant, achieving accurate images is a breeze with minimal settings adjustments required. However, it is worth noting that the included light strip may fall on the shorter side when it comes to accommodating the largest screens.

FAQ

Q: What makes the Govee AI Sync Box different from other reactive lighting products?

Instead of the conventional placement of the camera above monitors or TVs to capture images on screens, the Govee AI Sync Box leverages AI technology to analyze an HDMI video signal. The outcome is an enhanced level of responsive reactive lighting and patterns that are triggered by in-game events.

Q: Do all RGB lights in a gaming or media room need to be made by the same brand to work together?

While it's typically easier to have all RGB lights in a gaming room from a single manufacturer, there exist smart home platforms and software solutions capable of seamlessly integrating various devices within one ecosystem.