4K at 60Hz | Up to 10 lights with a Hue Bridge | HDMI devices only | Bluetooth and Zigbee | Type G plug
Overview
The Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K syncs Hue lights with content from your HDMI devices. Hue’s release notes call this model the Play HDMI sync box 4K (2026). Hue says it supports 4K resolution at 60Hz, describes it as ideal for everyday gaming and movies in crisp 4K, and its sync guide calls it great for simple, everyday use. It is a black plastic box, 117 x 87 x 23 mm and 0.31 kg, rated IP20 and Class III (Safe Extra Low Voltage) for dry locations.
It runs from 100-240V AC mains, and Hue lists a Type G plug. It uses Bluetooth and Zigbee, and Hue says it works without Wi-Fi. It is set up in the Philips Hue app on Android 12 or later and iOS 17 or later. Hue’s sync guide says a Hue Bridge isn’t required, but recommends one to include more than one light; the UK product page says you can add up to 10 lights with a Hue Bridge. The box only works with HDMI devices and doesn’t sync with built-in TV apps.
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Key Features
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Good to Know
Hue’s UK product page for this 2026 model shows video formats as “NA”, and doesn’t give an HDMI version, HDR formats, audio passthrough details or a port count. If you need any of those, check with Hue before you buy. Hue’s UK support pages also refer to an original Sync Box 4K, an older model with different specs, so check the model name before you buy. Hue’s sync guide describes the Play HDMI Sync Box 8K as ideal for gaming and advanced set-ups.
Setup & Installation
Hue’s general US sync box setup guide doesn’t name a model, and it is written for a Hue Bridge that is already connected and added to the Hue app. Open the Philips Hue app, tap the three dots icon on the Home tab, then tap Add devices and scan the QR code.
Wait for the LED to blink blue, then tap Yes and follow the on-screen instructions. Hue’s sync guide says a Bridge isn’t required, but recommends adding one to include more than one light in the Entertainment area. Remember the box only syncs with HDMI devices, not built-in TV apps.
Common Problems & Fixes
Running into issues? Our Philips Hue troubleshooting guide covers step-by-step fixes taken from Hue’s own support pages, including Play gradient lightstrip not syncing with the TV and sync box not syncing your lights.
Who Should Buy It
Anyone who wants Hue lights to follow 4K content from an HDMI device in a simple, everyday set-up.
Verdict
The 2026 Play HDMI Sync Box 4K supports 4K at 60Hz and up to 10 lights with a Hue Bridge, and Hue pitches it at simple, everyday use. For gaming and advanced set-ups, Hue’s sync guide points to the Play HDMI Sync Box 8K, which Hue says supports higher resolutions and up to 120 frames per second.
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