Best Motorized Curtains for your Home Automation Needs

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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Running your home is becoming less laborious with each passing day because you can make your life easier by having a smart home. Almost everything can be done using a machine, including washing dishes, vacuuming the floor, and now opening and closing your curtains. Motorized curtains save time because you don't have to walk up to the window and also you can choose the amount of light you want to enter your room.

These electric drapes also make suitable options for people with difficulty standing up, sitting, or raising their arms, such as the disabled and the elderly. However, there are many elegant curtains in the market from different brands, and they continue to grow every day. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best-motorized curtains you can choose from with their pros and cons and a detailed buying guide to guide you through your decision.

1. Curtain Call Motorized Curtains

Electric Remote Controlled Drapery System W/8' Track...
  • Motorized Curtain Rod operated by Amazon Echo Alexa with 1450...
  • Amazon Echo, Curtain Call Adapter Cable 1450 and Wemo WiFi Smart...

Curtain Call Motorized Curtains have to make it to the list because apart from adding some details to your atmosphere, they can operate three single curtains using one remote control and allows advanced decorations using a button only. They offer both convenience, elegance, and comfort with a flexible installation which can either be done on a ceiling or on a wall with ceiling brackets being included in the order. The track supports a lot of weight, and it is suitable for heavy drapery while operating quietly at the same time.

These draperies include a highly sensitive remote control that works in a radius of 100 meters, and unlike some options in the market, they don't require a long press to initiate a command to your windows. These features make them ideal for the elderly and disabled people as they don't need to struggle with the operation. On the downside, the price can go up with this curtain system lacking a Wifi smart plug and an adapter cable which you have to purchase separately.

Pros:

  • Motorization is a quiet operation.
  • It is versatile as it allows the curtain system to center open, right pull, or left pull.
  • The curtain track is custom made to your specific order.
  • Very durable and a great addition to your space.
  • It can be operated manually in case of a blackout.
  • They work well with any pleated curtains with hooks, and you don't need any unique curtains.

Cons:

  • Requires Wifi Smart Plug and a curtain call adapter cable which is sold separately to link up with Alexa.
  • Does not provide curtain hooks.

2. Quoya Smart Curtains System

Sale
Quoya Smart Curtains System, Electric Curtain Track...
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  • 【FIT FOR ALL】Our customizable tracks can fit any window size...
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  • 【8 SMART FUNCTIONS】1)Touch motion activation 2)Powercut...
  • 【INSTALLATION PROMISE】Our installation videos will guide you...

The Quoya Drapery system comes on top of the list because it has plenty of options for connecting it to your smart home setup using either the remote control provided or your phone. The curtain system is compatible with Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and IFTTT and can also be voice-activated. They also touch-sensitive with an auto-detection feature and function with simply a wave or hands making a motion of either opening or closing the curtains.

The Quoya motorized curtain system is an ideal choice for the well-being of the elderly and disabled customers who may often struggle to close the blinds fully. Additionally, they can be linked to your smartphone hub, where you can create scenes and enable you to pre-program the system into your morning or evening routine. Quoya motorized curtain also features a nice and quiet motor, so you don't have to be bothered with a loud sound.

It can fit windows as large as 3.2 meters and can support a weight of up to 70 kgs with eight hookers per meter. However, they use specific drapes and only the hook on curtains, so before purchasing, make sure you check this feature.

Pros:

  • You can control them using voice commands.
  • These electric drapes are easy to install and operate.
  • Supports touch motion activation.
  • Quiet motorSleek design and sturdy construction.
  • It is versatile as it works with two curtain systems.
  • The products support one way or two-way curtain opening systems.
  • It comes with a detailed installation instruction video.

Cons:

  • Could use a timer-based option to set the operation timer based on sunrise and sunset.
  • Doesn’t work with grommet drapes.

3. Home-Supplier Smart Home Curtain Rod

Homesupplier Smart Curtains, Remote Control Curtain...
  • Durable, heavy duty, quiet smart curtain. Easy assembly, DIY...
  • Multiple control methods: hand-held remote, smartphone, Amazon...
  • Timer scheduling for automated opening and closing via remote or...
  • Three installation choices: central, left, and right opening....
  • Light touch trigger: manually pulling the curtain can trigger the...

Home-Supplier Smart Home Rod is among the most efficient motorized curtains you will find come across in the market today. These electric drapes are very durable and last for a couple of years with the best innovative features you can desire in smart shades, including compatibility with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Smart Life, IFTTT Tuya. The motorized curtains can also be controlled using either a remote control, a smartphone, Alexa, Echo, Google Home, etc.

The electric drapes also feature a smart motor that can recall the exact position and distance you prefer, and they can also be operated manually if there's a blackout. This curtain system can automatically open or close with a gentle touch-trigger, and it also can schedule a timer for closing and opening your curtains. The remote control can operate within 160 ft and needs two AAA batteries for your remote featuring an LCD screen for your window's easy operation in your room.

Pros:

  • The motor is smart and quiet.
  • The remote control can set a timer for the automatic opening and closing of the curtains.
  • The motorized curtain can be controlled using an app, a remote control, or a voice assistant app.
  • The installation process of the curtains is versatile.
  • The remote control can control up to 16 curtain sets.

Cons:

  • Suitable for only pinch pleats drapery.
  • The information on the instructions is not that clear.

4. Yoolax Motorized Zebra Blinds with Remote

Yoolax Motorized Zebra Blinds Works with Alexa, Smart...
  • MATERIAL: the automatic blind is made of blackout polyester and...
  • SMART MOTOR: durable quality battery rechargeable motor, each...
  • REMOTE CONTROL: 15 channel remote (Pair to P412 motor) can...
  • MADE TO ORDER: the electric blind is custom made, you will see a...
  • LEAD TIME: dispatch in 3-5 working days after getting size...

Yoolax Motorized Zebra curtains have become popular over the past years because not only are they made by gurus in the curtains smart industry, but also they are made from 100% quality polyester. These electric drapes provide a total blackout and close your curtains to block the sun's excess light and UV rays that might fade your furniture for total privacy and safety.

Yoolax motorized curtains use a quiet motor that is convenient for sleepers without loud noises and comes in a soft and silky fabric, and they are also available in vibrant colors. These smart operations don't need a hub and can be controlled using a remote control, Alexa, or mobile phone app.

Pros:

  • Made from quality materials.
  • The curtain system features an adjustable rod that can fit any window size.
  • Quiet motors.
  • Battery-powered with a rechargeable battery, and you can also use a solar panel.

Cons:

  • The remote control comes as an additional purchase.
  • Setting the curtains up is time-consuming.

5. Lutron Serena Motorized Shades

Serena Smart Shades by Lutron | Custom Automated Window...
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  • EASY INSTALL: No need to run power wires to the windows, because...

Lutron Serena shades make a huge difference in your room's atmosphere and are one of the brands that run on battery-powered rollers. Apart from the electric drapes changing the atmosphere, it also adds to any room's aesthetic while still being an affordable sun blocking option.

Not only is Lutron Serena motorized shades easy to use, but they are also available in a variety of materials, fabrics and you can choose according to your needs. They also feature over 30 color options, different style options and work with most voice assistants. This package features two types of remote controls where one works for multiple curtains and another designed for a single shade.

Pros:

  • It is a battery-powered motorized curtain.
  • The shades move in unison to give your room light.
  • The curtains are quiet while moving.
  • It can last up to 5 years.
  • Different fabric options.
  • The Lutron app is reliable.

Cons:

  • You need to purchase a Lutron smart bridge to connect your curtains to your wifi network.

Considerations when Purchasing the Best Motorized Curtains

Below are some considerations to observe before investing in your curtain motorization, and we have explained how they would affect your choice.

1. Automatic Curtain Mechanism

This is the part where you consider how the motorized curtains will be powered. There are three main options for motorized power curtains, and they include: Battery-Powered Motors, which is the most affordable option, and it lasts for a long time. The second option is the solar-powered options which are very eco-friendly choices, and finally, plug-in motors are the easiest to operate since you need to plug them into the wall. However, plugins are not great because you may have cords across your room causing accidents, and therefore before you choose this option, ensure you have a way to hide the cord.

2. Quality and Durability

The motor durability and quality are critical factors to consider to avoid investing your money in your home curtains only for the motor to burn out within a few weeks. Ensure your curtains are made using the best materials since some materials are more durable than others, and also, the construction will determine how long the curtain rod will give your home service. Opt for heavy-duty materials and a great motor that can easily withstand everyday use, making them last longer.

3. Security

When it comes to evaluating motorized drapes, security is an important matter and one of a motorized curtain system's most significant advantages. While using a smartphone, you can control your drapes from any location; even when on vacation, you can draw your blinds to keep off any burglars. Motorized curtains are a smart home solution that should offer you security, and you can also opt for the ones with timers that you can use to open and close automatically.

4. Placement

This is another consideration you should observe before purchasing your curtain set. This is because where you place your curtains determines what impact they have on your decor. Ensure your automatic curtains fit your windows nicely and are compatible with the blinds you will attach to the motor. Try to avoid being stuck with an impossible choice because you have purchased a particular style of blinds, but they cant attach well to the motors.

5. Compatibility

Smart home integration is among the top features to consider before choosing the best-motorized curtains. Still, luckily the majority of the motorized curtain systems nowadays are compatible with the smartphone. However, before making your final purchase option, check if the curtains have a corresponding phone app and how efficiently it functions.

All motorized curtains are controlled remotely, whether using a smartphone or remote control, so make sure the tech being used performs quite well. Also, check the different control options each motorized curtain model uses because some offer control for more than one curtain. Opt for automation products that give you the most convenience and fit your needs the best.

6. Installation

Installation of the motorized curtain on your window should not be a hectic task, and you should check whether the installation process is hassle-free and quick. The smart home integration should be a straightforward process since most products from most brands come with relevant information and instructions and also the necessary mounting hardware. Try to avoid purchasing motorized curtain systems that are complicated to install to avoid installing the set the wrong way.

Also, ensure you know how your curtains opening systems get a similar choice for your motorized curtains. To be on the safe side, you can choose a system that allows three installation systems. This benefits and gives you flexibility even if you upgrade your curtains to others with a different opening system. However, if you lack the necessary knowledge about DIY projects, you can consider hiring a professional, especially installing more than one curtain system.

7. Smart Home Integration/ Remote Control

While some motorized curtains only support remote control, the remote control can be handy for your space operation because it comes with some exceptional features. Some of them include some remote controls having a programmable timer that opens and closes your motorized curtains during predetermined times, and some are voice-activated. Other remote control systems can be integrated with Google Home or Alexa, and you can control them using an app o your phone or tablet.

8. Size

Finding a motorized curtain that fits your window should not be that hard, even if various sizes are available. You can go with measurements of your window, and also, if you don't know them, there's no need to fret as some curtain options can be customized to fit your window size perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much do electric drapes cost?

A single motorized curtain can cost from as low as $220 to as high as $1000 for the premium options, with the price going up depending on how many motorized curtains you are installing in your home.

2. Can I control my Curtain system with Alexa?

Yes, it's possible. However, some motorized curtain systems only allow operations using a wall switch or remote control, but you can get smart home options. Smart options are great for any room because you can connect them to your wifi and control them using your tablet or smartphone, and they are also compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Siri.

Notably, if your motorized curtains don't support Alexa, they can be converted to smart curtains by connecting to a third-party hub.

3. What are the curtains that go on a track?

Curtains with a pinch pleat, wave header style, or pencil pleat can be fitted into curtain track. Pencil pleat curtains can be hung from a track or a pole; tab top and eyelet curtains must be hung from a pole. On the other hand, Pinch and Goblet pleat curtains can be hung from a track or pole, but as they hang underneath either, to enable the curtains to concertina back correctly, the track or pole will be in full view. However, eyelet curtains can only be fitted to a curtain pole.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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