Did sunlight wake you up because you forgot to close the window curtain before napping? Are you squinting in the too-bright room, trying not to strain your eyes?
Or is it the opposite case? Did you forget to open the blinds, and now is the room too dark? Ugh! So many troubles!
We could go on with these questions, but you’ve got the drift, didn’t you? Yes, we knew you would. Windows are obviously a part of every house. Some of us love to keep them open while others like them shut and locked. Whether you are a fan of fluttering curtains or thick blinds, there is one thing you will need to do.
What is it, you ask? Well, it’s the open and closing of these blinds. You’ve got to stop your work, get up, go to the window, and open/ close the blinds. It isn’t much of a task, we know. But what if you can operate them through your smartphone or a remote or simply command it? What if the blinds are more than normal?
What if the blinds can control and optimize light and heat inside the room? What if they can be smart? Yes! We are talking about smart blinds that can do all the tasks mentioned above and more.
We just love how technology can turn everything smart. When you already own smart cleaners, bulbs, cutters, and whatnot, why wait to buy smart blinds? After all, these could automatically adjust your home's brightness as per your taste and reduce energy consumption.
Ah, yes, we get it. You do want to buy them. But as always the question of which one to choose is bothering you. It’s tough to pick the right one. There are many smart blinds in the market, aren’t they? And the price range is quite wide.
What do we do now? Nothing to fret about! Absolutely not! Just read through the post and check out the top 5 best smart blinds available in the market. You'll also see the different types of smart blinds and factors to consider when buying them.
That’s a relief, isn’t it? We understand. We love to make things easy for you. So, shall we start with the process right away? Let’s get going.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick
Product | Control Method | Fabric Type | Customization | Light Blockage | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Remote | Polyester | Yes | 100% | ||
Remote, Alexa | Aluminum | No | Depends on the Curtains for the User | ||
Remote, Alexa, Google Assistant | Double Layer Polyester | Yes | 100% | ||
Other Great Recommendations | |||||
Remote, Alexa, Google Home | Polyester | Yes | 100% | ||
Multi-channel Remote | PVC coated Polyester | No; Available in different sizes | 92% UV rays blockage | ||
Best Top 5 Smart Blinds in the Market for the Money
Springblinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades
We start our list with none other than 100% blackout roller shades by Springblinds. There is every reason for this model to top our list. Whether we talk about colors, appearance, performance, or customer feedback, this model seems to have many positives. Isn’t that encouraging?
Yes, yes, we are teasing you with the trailer, but you want the full version. We’ve got that as well for you. How can we not explain in detail? We would, and we just did. Yup. Continue reading, and you’ll see more about each feature of this model. Say yes to smart blinds.
Features and Benefits
Design
This model uses a spring-locked roller that helps in opening and closing the blinds. Can you image a projector screen? Yep. That’s how it looks and works. Well, it actually works a lot better, but you get the drift.
The blinds are made of polyester with a foam backing that helps in thermal blocking. The blinds aren’t just to block light, they also prevent heat from seeping through. From outside to inside or vice versa. You know what that means, don’t you? Exactly. You can use them throughout the year to stay warm or cool.
Do you know about the numerous color options? Yeah, this is one model with which you don’t have to worry about the blinds not matching the décor. Moreover, with the customization feature, you can measure the windows and inform the seller of the exact size of the blinds you want. That’s money saved again, isn’t it?
Installation
Now, here is where some people seem to have an issue with this model. While some users found it incredibly easy to install the blinds, others pulled their hair out. We think it has something to do with the individual pieces delivered. The overall word is that the installation is quite okay to handle if you are careful. We had no problem whatsoever with the installation. It was rather done quite fast. However, you can always call a professional to complete it, right?
Controlling Methods
The blinds have a 9 V Li-ion battery motor mounted on them. We are very much pleased with its performance. The blinds are operated using a remote control (it’s easy to figure it out, and there’s a manual too). There is no need to go insane with the remote, either. One simple touch and you’re done. The blinds do as you please. Perfect, right?
Pros
- So many colors to choose from
- 100% blackout; stays true to its name
- Can use the remote from a fairly long distance
- Customization is available. Can get perfectly-sized blinds for your windows
- Durable and smooth roller. Lasts for a really long time
Cons
- Some find the installation part tough
- You’ll need to spend a little time on pairing the remote
Check Springblinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades Price on Amazon
Curtain Call Electric Remote Controlled Drapery System
The second model on our list is by Curtain Call. You might be wondering why we included a curtain controlling system when we are talking about smart blinds. But not all of you like blinds, do you? We’ve met so many people who liked the concept of smart blinds but wanted the same for curtains.
Curtains are invariably artistic and can be changed as often as required. The flutter in the breeze and create a lovely appearance. This model is exclusively for those who love fluttering curtains at home. Now you can control them using a remote control or voice commands. How is that, you ask? Take a look below. We’ll explain.
Features and Benefits
Design
Since this model is to control drapes, it comes with an aluminum track that needs to be installed above the window (on the wall). The track has mechanized hooks to hand the curtains. The track is made to hold heavy curtains (up to 10 pounds) to hang those thick drapes made of velvet or other such material. The track is quite simple and doesn’t take the curtains' attraction, which should indeed be the highlight of your home.
Installation
Installing the track can be easy or complex. That depends entirely on you. How? Well, you will need to cut the track to the right size to fit it over the window. Now, if you are used to DIYs, it’s no big deal. You’ll cut it, screw it, and drape the curtains in a few hours at the most (throughout the house). But if you are not used to this kind of work, you will need someone to do it on your behalf. The track has to be screwed into the wall. The curtains get hooked at the end. Still simple, yes.
Controlling Methods
You can control the curtains using a remote or through voice commands by pairing it with Alexa. You will need to buy the adapter cable and mini smart plug separately, though. It uses 3rd party hubs (Wi-Fi plug) to connect to Alexa. Once it’s set, you can command the drapes to open or close. And, you can still push aside the drapes manually when you feel like. Are you imagining a candid shot of standing at the window with your hands on the curtains? Oh, yeah, it would make one of the best picture frames, we agree.
Pros
- A heavy-duty track that can hold heavy curtains
- Can change curtains anytime
- Easy to use
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Swift operations through remote
- Seamless action through voice commands
Cons
- The adapter cable and mini smart plug not included with the set
- No customization
Check Curtain Call Electric Drapery System Price on Amazon
Graywind Motorized Zebra Sheer Shade
At the third place on our list are Zebra shades by Graywind. We’ve dealt with blinds and curtains. So now it’s time for shades. Yep. While blinds are more like a single sheet of material, shades have strips of fabric connected vertically for you to pull them up or down. They can be adjusted to shutter off completely or stay tilted at an angle to allow light.
These motorized shades by Graywind can be controlled manually, through a remote, or through Alexa and Google Assistant (voice commands). They can be customized, bought in different colors, and scheduled to open or close. Great, isn’t it? Let’s see more about this model and why it entered our list.
Features and Benefits
Design
The best thing about Graywind Zebra Sheer Shades is the customization. Once you measure the window, place an order for your favorite colored shades, and give your home a new look. The size of the window doesn’t even matter here. The shades have a white waterproof layer made using vinyl and linen to have 100% blackout when the shades are closed.
The material also prevents UV rays from reaching inside your home. You don’t need to bother about your kids or elders anymore, do you? Privacy will not even be an issue, right? It has a built-in hardwired motor that is efficient and durable. What more do you want? Installation, of course. Yep, let’s see that too.
Installation
The shades, unfortunately, do not come with an instruction manual. This means it can get quite confusing for you to fix them in. But, hey, worry not. You can figure it out soon. Moreover, you can find videos online and follow them. It just takes a wee bit of thought to get going. Then, it’s super easy. You wouldn’t find it as difficult. We are sure of it.
Controlling Methods
These shades are super easy to control and can be commanded to do as you say in many ways. Whether you use a remote, or the smart app, or Alexa/ Google Assistant, you’ll see that the shades accept commands easily. You can schedule timings for the shades to open and close as you wish. That’s wonderful, right?
Pros
- Can be customized as per your order
- Many shades and colors to choose from
- Easy to command through remote and voice
- Block UV rays
- Schedule timings through Smart Life app
Cons
- No instruction manual
- Installation can be tricky if you are a novice
Check Graywind Motorized Zebra Sheer Shade Price on Amazon
Yoolax Motorized Smart Blinds
Even though Yoolax is fourth on our list, it is in no way less than the other smart blinds. It has everything you’ll want from blinds- be it blocking light or letting cool air in. Customize them, control them, and also schedule them. Yes!
Why wait anymore? Check out their details to see why they are recommended.
Features and Benefits
Design
Do you have a modern home? Do you wish to get blinds in some classy yet trendy colors? What do you say about a tailor-made set of blinds? Yes, to everything? Great. The blinds by Yoolax are cut and created as per the dimensions mentioned in your order. While it does take a long while for them to reach you, you will get to use them soon after. Just remember that if you immediately need blinds, these aren’t for you. Else, you can go right ahead and order them.
Installation
Well, installation is something that does take a little time for any of the smart blinds. This one is no different. It can be super easy to moderately complex, depending on how much you are used to working on your own. We found it quite easy to install. Just fix it up, over the window, and it’s done. The toughest part is to wait for the blinds to arrive. The rest is pretty easy.
Controlling Methods
With multiple control options and voice commands, we don’t really need anything else, do we? Scheduling the open and close timings is another bonus. But the only issue seems to be how the initial programming can confuse you. It can take a while for you to get it right. But once it’s set, you’re good to go. It accepts voice commands through Alexa and Google Home very well post the initial connection.
Pros
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Control through remote and voice
- Schedule open and close timings
- 100% blackout while allowing cool air inside
- Rechargeable batteries
Cons
- Takes long to be delivered
- Slight issues with programming and initial connection to Alexa and Google Home
Check Yoolax Motorized Smart Blinds Price on Amazon
Keystone Fabrics Motor Controlled Indoor Roller Shade
The last on our list is a simple yet elegant model by Keystone. Do you like minimal designs? Do you like to have some sunlight streaming into your house? Do you still want to block the harmful UV rays? Do you want a child-safe model?
If your answer is yes to all the above questions, here is the best smart blinds model for you. We are totally serious about it. Keystone has come up with this motor controlled indoor roller shade that is elegant and highly useful.
Shall we take a look at how it works?
Features and Benefits
Design
The blinds are made using PVC coated polyester. This helps in reducing the glare of sunlight while still allowing for some light to pass through. You can optimize the temperature levels at home as the blinds control the amount of heat that enters inside. And yes, 92% of the UV rays are also blocked. The aluminum valance adds to the overall simplistic look of the blinds.
While the blinds come only in two shades, they do suit most interiors without appearing odd. If you like to stare out of the window at times, you can still see through the blinds without making your presence apparent.
Installation
We love how easy it is to install these smart blinds. The set comes with brackets and screws for you to fix them either to the ceiling or to the window. A bit of muscle power will fix the blinds in place for you to use them happily. Of course, you can still call a professional to put it up. But for someone good with the drill, you don’t need outside help. That’s a relief, right?
Even though the blinds cannot be customized for your window (yeah, the minus point is that you have to choose from the existing sizes), you can work it out by fixing the blinds to the ceiling or the window. How? Simple. If you get blinds that are longer than your window, put them up on the ceiling. Cool? Yep.
Controlling Methods
Well, it can be controlled through a remote alone. No voice or app commands to order it to do you wish. But hey, you don’t need to go crazy trying to figure the wiring or the programming. The built-in battery of the motor runs long (though not as long as some other models do) and is rechargeable (that’s cool, right?). One click of the remote will get the blinds to open or close.
It is reliable and has a child-safety mechanism. If you’ve got kids at home, you know this model scores another plus. You won’t be complaining against these smart blinds for sure.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Child-safety mechanism
- Loop cord mechanism
- Rechargeable Li-ion battery
- Keeps the room cool
Cons
- Doesn’t provide 100% blackout
- Comes in fixed sizes and cannot be customized
Check Keystone Fabrics Motor Controlled Price on Amazon
Best Smart Blinds Buying Guide
That sure was some list, wasn’t it? There are many benefits of replacing the old blinds in your home with the smart ones. If you aren’t convinced about their superpower by now, we are going to make sure you do. Yep. Check out the benefits of using smart blinds and now, can you ignore them any longer? We think not.
- Enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. Blinds are classy, have a minimal design, and fit perfectly with any kind of décor.
- Save energy by using less power for the lights, AC, or the heater. And if your blinds work on solar power, you’ve got an additional advantage.
- You get extra security at home in case you have forgotten to close the blinds before stepping out. No one is going to peek into your home when you are in or out.
- You don’t have to close and open the blinds manually. Even for the motorized versions, you can use voice commands to control them. Kneading the cookie dough? Finger painting with the kid? No problem. Get Alexa to close the blinds for you.
- The blinds are smart. But you are smarter. You set rules for them to obey. They follow without fail and do their bit. Dual benefit surely.
From buying new blinds to motorizing existing ones, going for solar-powered ones or thick blinds that fully block light, you have many options, don’t you? Shall we first see the different types of smart blinds and then move on to the factors to consider when buying them? Let’s get armed with all the information we can and make the best choice.
Types of Smart Blinds
- Automatic Blinds
The name says it all, doesn’t it? The blinds are smart and can do things automatically on their own. They can make decisions based on the settings you choose. Is it too hot outside? The blinds go down to keep your home cool. Is it too dark on the inside? It’s time to raise the blinds a little to allow some light inside. Maybe you’d like the blinds to go up during the dusk? They sense, they understand, and they act.
- Semi-automatic Blinds
These blinds are smart too. Just not as smart as the fully automatic ones! They can be automated to schedule the opening and closing on their own, but that’s about it. Sensing temperatures and making their own decisions is something they can’t do. Of course, you can set the schedule, and they’ll follow your orders without fail. That’s cool as well, don't you think?
- Non-automatic/ Motorized Blinds
Well, these blinds do not do anything on their own. No scheduling, either. But you can control them with a remote. You can also give voice commands through your smart devices, and they’ll respond. Still smart, aren’t they? For those who like to decide how much light they want and when, these motorized blinds are a great option. You stay smarter than the blinds this way, isn’t it? Just kidding!
Each type has its advantage and disadvantage. It depends on what you want the smart blinds to do for you in your home. However, certain things might help you from making the wrong decision, right? Take a look at them below.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Smart Blinds
There are quite a few things to consider before you go ahead and buy the smart blinds. Each of them plays a role depending on what you like, the way your home is designed, and what actions you want the blinds to perform.
- Get New Blinds or Convert Existing Ones
While it is not possible for all blinds, some ordinary ones can be turned smarter by motorizing them. You will need to fit the device that will connect to your Wi-Fi and take your commands to control the blinds. That said, if your blinds are quite old, it is better to replace them, don’t you think? You can give your home a good makeover. Yes!
- Type of Blinds
We’ve already mentioned the different types of blinds available. You’ve got to pick the ones suitable for your home and usage. Some blinds provide UV protection as well. Great, isn’t it? And yes, you’ve got to decide if you’d like blinds, curtains, or shades. Yep, that’s another point to consider.
- Size of the Window
How big or small is the window for which you want to fit the blinds? Not all smart blinds fit all sizes. We understand that’s a pain. But it’s better to know in advance than later, isn’t it? So measure up the window or the region you want to cover and lookup for the ones that fit in there.
- Smart Device Compatibility
Right. It’s time to decide how smart your blinds should be. If you want them to do everything on their own, you’ll have to go for the fully automatic ones. Otherwise, you can keep them at a moderate level by connecting the blinds to your smartphone app. But, yes, be careful. You have to pick the blinds that are compatible with the devices at home. Point, right?
- Blocking the Light
Why do we use blinds? Privacy and light adjustments, right? So the question here is how much light do you want the blinds to block. If you like your home to be dark, blinds with 100% light blockage might be the best option for you. If you want the light to seep in, go for semi-transparent or lighter shades. There’s so much fun in picking blinds, isn’t it? We really enjoy the process.
- The Functionality of the Blinds
What more do you want the blinds to do other than blocking the light? Some models offer additional features that can make your home smarter. If you want something on those lines, go for it. Give your home a cool makeover.
- Installation Procedure
Even smart blinds need to be installed for them to work. But the trouble is that not all models are easy to fix. Some are cumbersome and sigh, way too complex. Others come pre-assembled so that you can fix them up in a short while. What would you want? That again depends on the blinds you choose. A lot to consider already, right?
- Style and Appearance
How can we not list this factor? We mean, come on, a particular model of the smart blind might be the best, but what if it looks out of place at home? Do you want to cringe every time you look at it? God forbid! No, right? So take a pause and imagine how the blinds would appear in the existing décor. If you are sure they match, you know what to do.
- Remote/ Voice Control
Do you want to use a remote to control the blinds? Would you rather prefer giving voice commands and feel like royalty? If you like the latter, you can choose the ones that are controlled through external plug-ins or the blinds with built-in commands. Which one would you prefer? Let us know, will you?
Conclusion
We did eventually come to the end of our review. Do you have all that you need to buy the best smart blinds? We hope you do. We want nothing but the best for you and your lovely home. Just a reminder to not to forget measuring the window first! It is imperative to buy the blinds of the right size and fit.
We won’t stop you any longer now. Go on and place your order. Have a happy and safe home with smart blinds that obey your orders. See you soon.
Current Best Selling Smart Blinds!
FAQs:
Are smart blinds easy to install?
Smart blinds come in different sizes and material construction. They use a remote and app control system. The comprehensive guideline provided by the manufacturer makes it easy to install. However, if you find it difficult, you can get an expert to set it up for you.
How do you power smart blinds?
There are different ways through which smart blinds get powered. First, you can use d-cells that work well wireless. We also have the ones powered through a cable with a nearby electricity source. And finally, we have those powered by a plug-in charger.
How many channels are there on a smart blinds remote control?
The number of channels depends on the brand you are purchasing. The common ones are the single, five, and sixteen channels control. There are also other types available with the continued tech innovation.
Are smart blinds repairable?
This depends, so the manufacturer and the system are put in place for repairing. If you notice issues with the blinds, do not hesitate to construct the manufacturer for guidance. Some of the things you can check before you send your smart blind for repair include the power connection and battery.
1 comment
Windows are obviously a part of every house. Some of us love to keep them open, while others like them shut and locked. The best solution to having both is getting blinds and rollers.
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