The 8 Best Smart Window Blinds
Special Honors
Serena by Lutron Smart Wood Blinds Serena by Lutron Smart Wood Blinds offer a handsome basswood construction, for a natural aesthetic paired with smart functionality. You can select from painted or stained finishes, and choose your desired power option, whether that's battery-powered or hardwired. serenashades.com
Soma Tilt The Soma Tilt claims to install in a mere three minutes, so if complicated processes and new technology intimidate you, there's nothing to worry about. It replaces an existing wand and has a built-in battery that is powered via either the included solar panel or USB charger. somasmarthome.com
Editor's Notes
September 04, 2020:
With a little patience, you can modernize your window treatments with any of our choices, but it's important to keep in mind that these are not one-size-fits-all solutions. For instance, both the Rollerhouse Wireless Motor and the Tuya Wifi fit inside the roller tube found at the top of a set of blinds or shades; when considering compatibility, you'll need to think about both the diameter and the length of the tube. Or, there's the MySmartBlinds Automation Kit, made for horizontal corded blinds, while the Current Products Corp. E-Wand Starter is for horizontal or vertical blinds that have a wand.
Note, too, that not every model is compatible with every smart home hub or system. For instance, we selected the Yoolax Motorized Roller Shades, which are less expensive than some and come in a range of colors, but these are not compatible with Apple HomeKit. And if you opt for the Ikea Fyrtur, you're going to need the Tradfri gateway for full functionality. On the plus side for both, however, is their cordless design; cordless window shades are your best bet in a home with kids, as cords can pose a strangulation risk.
February 04, 2019:
Because full smart blind systems remain price prohibitive for most people, we selected a range of options for bringing your existing window treatments into the 21st century. These include both motors, such as the Rollerhouse Wireless Motor and the Luckome Motorized Roller Shades, as well as the controllers that bring smart functionality to them, including the Insteon Micro Open/Close and the Aeotec Nano. And if you aren't worried about integrating with a hub, the Current Products Corp. E-Wand Starter is a useful option that responds to the environment to keep your room comfortable.