With the introduction of Eve Custom Smart Blinds, consumers can now effortlessly control the ambiance of their rooms, whether they prefer to bask in sunlight or enjoy a private, dimmed environment. These blinds, powered by a motor that supports Thread networking and Matter connectivity, integrate seamlessly with most smart home automation platforms. Users can manage them via a smartphone, voice commands, automated schedules, or even a traditional pull cord.
Despite their advanced features, Eve blinds are currently available only as roller shades, offering three light-filtering fabric options in various colors. Starting at $546.85, they are on the pricier side. However, they are praised for their performance, ease of installation, and aesthetic appeal. In contrast, SmartWings Motorized Roller Shades offer a broader range of styles and motor options at a lower starting price of $209.99.
Design and Features: Limited Options, Widespread Compatibility
Eve Custom Smart Blinds are crafted to individual specifications but are limited to roller shade configurations. Competitor SmartWings provides a wider array of shade types, including cellular, outdoor, zebra, Roman, and woven wood options. Eve’s fabric selections include light-filtering, blackout, and insulated light-filtering, with colors like Ash, Dust, Ink, Oyster, Sand, and Snow. Insulated options feature Anthracite, Black Metal, Grey Metal, Silver Metal, and White Metal.
Pricing varies based on fabric choice, window dimensions, and optional features such as mounting assemblies. For instance, a test shade using Ash blackout fabric for a 74-by-52-inch window with a cassette mount was priced at $1,146.58, whereas a similar SmartWings shade costs $495.96.
The motor, designed by Motionblinds, features five speeds and charges via a USB-C cable. However, mounting screws and a remote control are notably absent from the package, though mounting brackets and a setup guide are included. The motor includes a USB-C charging port, LED indicators, and buttons for setting end positions and resetting to factory defaults.
Smart Home Integration and Control
Eve’s motor supports Thread networking and is Matter-enabled, allowing compatibility with multiple home automation platforms such as Alexa, Google, HomeKit, and SmartThings. This requires a Thread border router and Matter controller, with examples including the Apple HomePod mini and Amazon Echo devices.
Control is facilitated through the Eve mobile app, available on Android and iOS, and compatible home automation apps. The app allows users to assign shades to specific rooms, set schedules, and enable features like Adaptive Shading, which adjusts the shades based on sunlight exposure. Automation options include opening and closing at sunrise and sunset or in response to motion sensors.
Performance: Smooth and Responsive
Installation of the Eve shade is straightforward, though a level, mounting screws, and assistance are recommended. The shade’s performance in testing was impressive, with responsive controls via the Eve and Apple Home apps, as well as Siri voice commands. The blackout fabric effectively darkened the room, and Adaptive Shading functioned as intended, automatically adjusting based on sunlight.
The Eve shade motor registered 56dB during operation, slightly louder than the SmartWings motor at 43dB.
Automations, such as opening to 50% upon arrival home and closing at sunset, worked reliably. Despite the slight noise difference, the Eve shade’s performance and smart features make it a compelling choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
Conclusion: A High-Tech Investment
While Eve Custom Smart Blinds come at a premium price, their integration with smart home systems and ease of use offer significant value. For those seeking a wider range of styles and more affordable options, SmartWings may be the better choice. However, for tech enthusiasts prioritizing advanced connectivity and customization, Eve blinds represent a worthwhile investment in modern home automation.
