As a emerging enthusiast of home automation, I set my sights on integrating smart technology throughout my living space, with smart blinds being a priority. After 18 months using IKEA’s FYRTUR smart blinds, I’ve outfitted nine windows in my house and feel well equipped to share my review.
Affordability and Availability
One of IKEA’s strongest selling points is affordability, and the FYRTUR/KADRILJ blinds are no exception. These blinds are some of the most cost effective Zigbee compatible window coverings on the market, making them an accessible option for those looking to get into smart blind technology without breaking the bank.
Design and Quality
The FYRTUR blinds offer a modern look that complements a variety of decors. They effectively block out light, making them ideal for bedrooms or any room where controlling natural light is desired. Their build quality feels robust, and they maintain a clean, unobtrusive look that integrates very well into each room.
Installation and Setup
Physically installing the blinds is straightforward with good instructions provided, however, the initial setup and pairing with home automation systems like Zigbee2MQTT via Home Assistant can be somewhat tedious. I was not interested in using the IKEA TRADFRI Gateway so I cannot comment on that. Despite the minor setup issues, the blinds work very well once configured. The included buttons are a practical addition, allowing for easy manual control. I’ve placed these next to light switches to control all blinds in a room simultaneously.
Functionality and Performance
In terms of performance, the FYRTUR/KADRILJ blinds are reliable, although they occasionally deviate from set routines in Home Assistant. This could be due to the Zigbee2MQTT rather than the blinds themselves. When issues arise, they are generally resolved by removing and reinserting the battery, though some may require a reset and re-pairing, which is frustrating. This has only happened two or three in 18 months so I’m not too bothered by it.
The battery life of these blinds is impressive. I typically recharge them only once every 8 to 12 months, aligning this with when the first blind’s battery runs out.
The motor in the blinds isn’t too loud. You can hear when the blinds go up and down but it’s not so loud that it would wake someone sleeping in another room.
Sizing
One limitation worth noting is the range of available sizes. While IKEA offers various sizes, not all windows will have a perfect fit. In cases where the blinds do not fit within the window frame, they can be mounted above, which may not be ideal. I managed to get a perfect fitting size for 6 of my 9 windows. The remaining 3 windows I have mounted above the window frame.
Conclusion
Overall, the IKEA FYRTUR smart blinds represent an excellent value proposition for anyone looking to enhance their home with smart window treatments. They combine affordability with solid performance, ease of use, and a stylish design that should meet the expectations of most users venturing into smart home customization.
If you’re considering smart blinds that are budget friendly, look great and offer decent reliability, the FYRTUR blinds are definitely worth considering.
