Smart blinds are an essential component of any smart home, providing convenience and style. With features like voice commands and programmable schedules, controlling and optimizing your blinds is a breeze. However, choosing the right smart blinds for your home can be challenging. Tracy Christman, executive vice president of product development and strategy at Budget Blinds, suggests considering several factors when shopping for smart blinds.
One crucial aspect to consider is the motor. It is essential to find a motor that is built to last, as investing in motorized blinds is an investment in your home. Look for products that come with a complete warranty, as some brands may only offer limited warranties that do not cover all parts.
Additionally, picking the right smart blinds can save you money. By programming them to open and close automatically based on timers, you can effectively regulate your home’s temperature and keep out the sun. This simple feature can contribute to energy efficiency and cost savings.
Other factors to consider include ease of installation, available smartphone apps, and compatibility with popular platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Professional installation is often recommended for optimal results.
If you’re unsure where to start your search for the best smart blinds, here are some top options for 2023:
1. Tilt MySmartRollerShade: These blinds are easy to install and come in various colors and styles. They can be controlled through the Tilt MySmartRollerShades app and also support voice commands through Amazon Alexa with the additional purchase of a Tilt Bridge.
2. Lutron Serena Shades: These shades offer a custom fit for any window and work with all popular smart home assistants. With over 150 fabric options, you can personalize your blinds according to your preference. The Lutron Smart Bridge is required for Wi-Fi features.
3. Graywind Roller Shades: These blackout curtains can be controlled with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT programming. They offer smooth motor action and easy installation. Customer support is readily available for any installation issues.
4. Soma Smart Shades 2: These compact motor packs can be retrofitted to your existing blinds and are compatible with existing shades that have a beaded chain. The Soma app enables automation based on triggers like time of day or lighting conditions, and integration with smart home assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant is possible with the Soma Connect hub.
5. Yoolax Blackout Shades: These shades are custom-fit to match your window dimensions and operate smoothly and quietly. They can be controlled with a remote or the Yoolax app and also support voice commands through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri with the additional purchase of the Yoolax hub.
6. My SmartBlinds Automation Kit: This kit is ideal for retrofitting existing 2- to 2.5-inch corded horizontal blinds. It offers features like gradual tilt mode and automated operation based on solar monitoring and temperature sensors. The battery is solar-powered, contributing to energy efficiency.
7. IKEA Fyrtur Smart Blinds: These blinds combine reasonable pricing with a sleek design. They are easy to operate and install, although some “smart” features may be missing.
When choosing smart blinds for your home, consider your specific needs and preferences. Assess factors like motor durability, ease of installation, available smartphone apps, and compatibility with voice commands and smart home platforms. By carefully considering these aspects, you can find the perfect smart blinds to complement your smart home.
