Smart blinds make it easy to control your window shades using your phone or voice assistant. Here’s our list of the best smart blinds you can buy right now.
Smart blinds are the unsung heroes of the smart home. Having motorized shades that raise and lower with voice commands or on a set schedule is one of the best ways to create the illusion of people being home, even if you’re away. Smart blinds also are an effective way to save on your energy bill: Let in more light, keep the heat turned down, and let the sun save you some dough. Conversely, you can save on air conditioning costs by closing the blinds on hot days. Between convenience and energy savings, they’re an accessory worth exploring — and we’ve rounded up the best smart blinds you can buy today right here,
Available in several colors and material types (including blackout options), the Tilt MySmartRollerShades are an ideal option for those looking to dive into the world of smart shades without the burden of overly-complicated tech. The shade motors are powered by solar-charged battery packs, which means no worrying about recharging your power source throughout the year.
Once installed with compatible windows 23 inches to 74 inches wide, all of your main controls are handled by the Tilt MySmartRollerShades app. The iOS and Android apps connect via Bluetooth. Set schedules, enable sunrise/sunset functions for raising and lowering your blinds, and make adjustments all from your preferred mobile device. Keep in mind that because the app is powered by Bluetooth and not Wi-Fi, you’ll need to operate your motorized blinds while at home. If you want on-the-go controls, there are several options.
If you’re using an Amazon Alexa or a Samsung SmartThings smart device, you can also control your Tilt shades with voice commands. Doing so does require the additional purchase of the Tilt Bridge, but once installed it’s convenient to automate your shades with simple raise and lower prompts.
Serena motorized shades are one of the most popular brands for smart blinds. Lutron’s totally customizable coverings come in either honeycomb or roller styles with over 150 fabric, color, and opacity options. Use the free Lutron app to create custom mood scenes with your blinds and set schedules for opening and closingl. It also supports geofencing, where the blinds will automate based on your daily routines.
