Unleash the Ultimate Gaming Ambience with Govee Gaming Light Strip G1: A Comprehensive Review
The Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 offers an affordable solution for screen mirroring gaming content, simplifying complex smart lighting setups
Quick Links
Contents of PackageInstallation
Software
Performance
Conclusion
Related Products
Govee's innovative smart lights continue to revolutionize gaming experiences. The Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 is an LED strip that eliminates the need for additional hardware by effortlessly screen mirroring content with reactive lighting effects. Instead, the strip's software continuously captures the dynamic visuals in games and movies, enhancing the overall experience. Building on the success of previous Govee lights, the latest RGBIC light strip features a higher density of bulbs, enabling quicker responses to scene changes. With the integration of Govee DreamView, the Light Strip G1 can synchronize with other Govee lights, elevating the impact of music, movies, and games.
The Light Strip G1 is available in two versions, designed for monitors ranging from 24 to 26 inches or 27 to 34 inches in size. Game Rant recently put the longer version of the strip to the test, comparing it to Govee's other screen mirroring solutions. Despite its reasonable price, the Light Strip G1 promises the same functionality as much pricier reactive lighting kits. Now, let's determine if the Light Strip G1 lives up to its impressive claims or if gamers would be better off investing in a more substantial option.
Introducing the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1
Save $20 - Now only $50 (was $70)
Upgrade your gaming experience with the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1. This affordable solution allows you to add immersive backlighting to your monitor. With VibraMatch technology, the G1 light strip can accurately reflect the fast-paced action of your favorite games.
Featuring an impressive density of LED beads, Govee's RGBIC lighting delivers stunning visual effects. Installation is a breeze, as the G1 light strip can be effortlessly attached to monitors ranging from 27 to 34 inches or 24 to 26 inches. In just a matter of minutes, you can elevate your gaming setup to new levels.
Take full control of your lighting experience with the Govee mobile app and desktop software. With DreamView functionality, you can synchronize the G1 light strip with other compatible smart lights for a truly immersive gaming atmosphere.
Don't miss out on the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 - the perfect addition to enhance your gaming environment.
Brand Govee
Compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Razer Chroma
Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
No hub required
Music reactive
Operating voltage: 12 volts
Power consumption: 18 watts
Type: LED strip
Advantages: Easy installation
Highly luminous LED bulbs effectively illuminate walls.
Compatible with Govee DreamView and Razer Chroma
Great value when combined with software
Cons Requires using PC software for screen mirroring
Console gamers will need to get creative to use the G1
$70 at Amazon $50 at Govee
Contents of Package
The Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 is delivered in a compact square box, meticulously organized to ensure all components are securely placed. In addition to the LED light strip, buyers will find the power adapter, control box, alcohol wipes, and manual thoughtfully included. To further simplify installation, cable clips with double-sided tape are included as well.
Installation
The installation process of the Govee Light Strip G1 is similar to that of other smart lights produced by Govee. It is recommended to first test the lights on a floor or tabletop before attaching them to the back of a monitor. The light strip is connected to one end of the control box, while the controller is attached to the power supply using a barrel plug connection. At this stage, gamers can use the control box to turn on the lights and make basic scene changes. Alternatively, they can pair the Light Strip G1 with the Govee Home app. Fortunately, Govee has provided some extra length in the strip, but it is advisable to avoid creating excessively dark areas without lighting.
Securing the lights to the back of the monitor is a straightforward process for most of Govee's light strips. Start by peeling off the protective plastic coating and carefully guide the strip around the edges and corners of the display. To ensure a smooth installation, clean the area using the alcohol wipes provided to remove any debris that may hinder the adhesive tape. In this specific case, we were dealing with a 32-inch Gigabyte monitor that had slightly raised and curved sections on its rear panel, which added a slight level of complexity to the installation.
The black plastic clips with adhesive are useful for preventing the light strip segments from lifting off surfaces. However, there may be some leftover flexible plastic rope that connects the segments and allows for flexibility in monitor size. If the clips are not strong enough to prevent the material from rising up, using black electrical tape is a suitable alternative.
The control box can be placed in a user-friendly location, while the controller also provides the option to attach it to the underside or surface of a desktop using the included double-sided tape.
To pair the Light Strip G1 with the Govee Home app, gamers simply need to allow the software to scan the room for available devices. The app communicates with the light strip via Bluetooth, but will require connection to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
Software
Users of the Govee Home app have the flexibility to customize the Light Strip G1. They can choose solid colors, select from a variety of stunning preset scenes, or even create their own unique effects. In addition, the light strip can sync with other Govee lights and lighting systems through the DreamView feature, such as the AI Sync Box. This allows gamers to enhance their experience by using the Light Strip G1 with Scenic and Music DreamView. However, for programming lighting based on movie and gaming content, the Govee Desktop software is required, unlike camera-based screen mirroring kits.
Govee Desktop has evolved from a initially limited application to a more dependable and feature-rich software over time. When accessing the Device List tab, users should find the Light Strip G1, along with other Govee lights that are compatible with this program. In the event that the Light Strip G1 does not appear, buyers may need to verify the device settings in the Govee Home mobile app and ensure that LAN Control is enabled. By activating this setting, Govee Desktop will be able to detect any installed Govee lights without the need for additional pairing.
Please bear in mind that the PC operating the desktop program needs to be connected to the same local network as the Light Strip G1. In this case, the desktop was linked to the same home network through Ethernet rather than Wi-Fi, but it still successfully interacted with the Light Strip G1. During the light strip testing, there were a few instances where Govee Desktop lost connection with the Light Strip G1. However, this issue was resolved by simply closing and reopening the software. It is important to note that this could potentially be bothersome if relying on the program for uninterrupted content mirroring.
Users can configure DreamView with the Light Strip G1 and other connected Govee lights in the Group Control List section. This section offers basic adjustment sliders for brightness and saturation. Additionally, users can assign segments of the light strip to correspond with specific areas of a monitor, reflecting the content displayed on those areas. Generally, the default settings of DreamView produce satisfactory results.
Below the DreamView box, gamers will find the Razer Chroma Control section. By using Razer Synapse software, users can sync the Light Strip G1 with various Razer RGB mice, keyboards, and headsets. This feature requires some additional setup in Synapse but is highly beneficial, considering the additional syncing capabilities introduced by the software. Users can also opt for Synapse modules to coordinate lighting with Asus and MSI motherboards and peripherals. Furthermore, there is a screen visualizer available, which can essentially replace DreamView's screen mirroring feature.
As with all Govee products, gamers can also utilize the Light Strip G1's compatibility with Google Home and Amazon Alexa for convenient voice commands and control while using other applications. Regrettably, native integration with Apple Home is not feasible.
Performance
When some vibrant solid colors are chosen, the Light Strip G1 illuminates the wall behind a monitor with an astonishing intensity, thanks to its dense array of LED bulbs. In situations where it's not feasible to position a monitor at the usual distance from a wall, the exceptional brightness and wide-reaching illumination of the light strip truly leave a lasting impression.
Even without DreamView screen mirroring enabled, red hues would suit some Diablo IV grinding, while blues transform dull gaming room walls into oceans.
Undoubtedly, the Light Strip G1's standout feature is DreamView. When activated, the light projected on the walls seamlessly merges with the gaming visuals on a monitor, creating an immersive experience. Govee's VibraMatch technology plays a crucial role in this process by accurately replicating and intensifying the on-screen effects through vibrant lighting. DreamView effectively divides the screen into ten distinct sections to discern the subtle variations in colors, especially prevalent in intricate graphics.
Screen mirroring kits that rely on cameras often struggle to keep up with fast action during gaming. However, with the Govee Desktop software and a capable desktop or laptop, the Light Strip G1 ensures near-instantaneous lighting transitions between scenes.
When Razer Chroma Connect is enabled, it brings gaming setups to life by synchronizing captivating lighting effects. In the Razer Synapse application, users have the option to select from various pre-designed lighting patterns such as Breathing or Spectrum Cycling. Alternatively, they can unleash their creativity by crafting their own intricate effects using the Chroma Studio. Furthermore, Synapse provides an extensive range of game-specific RGB effects for supported titles, wherein the lighting impeccably reacts to in-game events or cleverly separates keyboard controls into distinct lighting segments.
Conclusion
The Light Strip G1 can seamlessly integrate with other Govee lights such as the Neon Rope Light for Desks or Hexa Light Panels, enabling gamers to create a captivating and immersive room-wide light show experience.
Introducing the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1
Save $20 and enhance your gaming experience with the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1. Designed to provide affordable monitor backlighting, this innovative product utilizes VibraMatch technology to replicate the action in high-speed games. With its densely packed LED beads, Govee's RGBIC lighting ensures a vibrant and immersive visual display. Installation is a breeze, fitting monitors ranging from 27 to 34 inches or 24 to 26 inches, allowing you to set up the Gaming Light Strip G1 within minutes. For added convenience, gamers can take advantage of the Govee mobile app and desktop software to synchronize the G1 light strip with other compatible smart lights using DreamView technology. Elevate your gaming setup with the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1.
Brand: Govee
Integrations: Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Razer Chroma
Protocol: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Hub Required: No
Music Reactive: Yes
Voltage: 12 volts
Wattage: 18 watts
Type: Strip
Pros: Easy installation
Dense LED bulbs emit sufficient light onto walls
Compatible with Govee DreamView and Razer Chroma
Great value when combined with software
Cons Requires using PC software for screen mirroring
Console gamers will need to get creative to use the G1
The installation process for the Govee Light Strip G1 on the back of monitors is fast and simple. The Govee Home app offers a wide variety of scenes, making the most of the LED bulbs' arrangement on the strip. The Light Strip G1 impresses with its superb brightness and color accuracy, and performs exceptionally well in responding to rapidly changing visuals on screens. Unlike camera-dependent options, this light strip can effortlessly adapt to dynamic scenes in games and movies.
For newcomers, DreamView might initially be overwhelming due to its multifaceted features and distribution across different apps. However, once properly set up, the results surpass the confines of a monitor's screen, creating an immersive gaming experience. Nevertheless, in terms of screen mirroring, the Light Strip G1 does have certain limitations when compared to alternative solutions like the Nanoleaf 4D or Govee's AI Sync Box.
The Light Strip G1 is an affordable and streamlined smart lighting system. Unlike other kits, it only includes an RGBIC light strip and not additional accessories like light bars, cameras, or HDMI sync boxes. To use the DreamView screen mirroring feature, the Light Strip G1 relies on the Govee Desktop software running in the background on PCs. This may be inconvenient for gamers who want to sync content from consoles and media players with the light strip. However, for PC gamers, especially those with Razer Chroma compatibility, the Light Strip G1 is incredibly powerful on its own. It functions as part of a larger collection of Govee smart lights in a room, rather than a standalone screen mirroring solution. Despite this limitation, the Light Strip G1 offers great value, particularly when combined with free mobile and desktop software. It is a cost-effective way to enhance a gaming setup with reactive lighting.
Related Products
When it comes to enhancing the gaming experience with smart lights, there are numerous alternatives to the Light Strip G1 available. One such option is the DreamView G1 Pro from the Govee family. This incredible package includes a light strip, 2 light bars, and a camera that can be mounted on top of monitors. While it may be slightly slower in responding to different visual settings, the G1 Pro's camera has the ability to scan any content, regardless of whether it's on a PC. For console users who utilize high-refresh-rate gaming monitors or are seeking additional RGB lighting fixtures, the DreamView G1 Pro is definitely worth considering.
The Govee AI Gaming Sync Box is a pricier option for screen-mirroring, equipped with a home theater-like component and 3 HDMI 2.0 ports. It utilizes AI technology to recognize important gameplay events in supported titles, allowing the connected light strip and light towers to react accordingly. Similar to the Light Strip G1, the more expensive smart lights from Govee provide immediate reactions to changing scenes when used in DreamView mode with the Sync Box. However, the Sync Box is unable to connect to HDMI 2.1 sources, meaning it does not support 4K resolutions at high refresh rates.
For those considering reactive lighting options, Philips Hue and Nanoleaf offer products worth considering. The Philips Hue Play Gradient, although only a light strip, comes with a higher price tag and relies on desktop software to capture content and mirror images. Despite the higher cost, many buyers appreciate the superior build quality of Hue lights and the simplicity of its software.
FAQ
The Nanoleaf 4D offers exceptional value with its screen mirroring kit, equipped with a versatile top or bottom-mounted camera. Nanoleaf provides desktop software featuring an innovative screen visualizer function, as well as compatibility with Razer Chroma and Overwolf. Moreover, the included light strip can be conveniently cut at predefined points, making it ideal for televisions up to 85 inches and smaller monitors.
Q: How does the Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 screen mirror content without a camera?
The Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 offers a unique approach to capturing changing imagery in games and movies. Unlike traditional screen mirroring kits that require cameras mounted above TVs or monitors, the G1 strip relies solely on software for this functionality. Additionally, with the integration of DreamView, the G1 strip can synchronize its lighting effects with other Govee lights and reactive lighting solutions.
Q: Do all RGB lights in a gaming or media room need to be made by the same brand to work together?
In order to create a cohesive gaming room lighting setup, it is generally ideal to have all RGB lights manufactured by the same company. However, there are various smart home platforms and software solutions available that allow for seamless integration of diverse devices into a unified ecosystem.
Q: What are the most popular types of lighting to add near gaming desks?
RGB enabled gaming peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headsets come with color-changing effects. To elevate the illumination of these peripherals, gamers frequently incorporate RGB cooling fans and LED strips into their PC cases. Additionally, in recent years, the inclusion of other smart LED lighting options such as wall panel lights near PC desks has become common.
