Lutron Electronics introduced its new Caséta Smart Shades at CES 2025. These are designed to bring the premium experience of custom Smart Shades to a wider audience. They promise advanced features, customizable options, and DIY-friendly installation—all at an affordable price of $399.
With Caséta smart blinds, Lutron aims to offer consumers the fit and finish of customized window treatments at a price typically associated with off-the-shelf solutions. Priced at $399 for shades up to 48 inches wide and 80 inches tall, Caséta shades offer a range of customization options: buyers can choose between roll and honeycomb designs, choose from light-filtering or blackout fabrics, and Choose between white or gray color schemes. Blackout options are available for an additional $30, and larger sizes can be ordered at higher prices, with the shades fitting windows up to 96 inches wide and up to 104 inches tall.
Smart home integration
One of the key features of the Caséta Smart Shades is their seamless integration into Lutron's existing Caséta ecosystem, which already supports lighting controls and dimmers. Through the Lutron app, users can schedule their blinds to open or close automatically, control them via voice commands (compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home), or operate them via physical remotes or wall controls. In addition to the Lutron ecosystem, the blinds are compatible with major smart home systems including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home and SmartThings.
The shades are designed for simplicity in both purchase and installation. Customers can order directly from the Caséta website, receive fabric samples to help them decide, and benefit from Lutron's straightforward measurement and installation instructions. The umbrellas are powered by D-cell batteries, whose lifespan is estimated at two years. I wish there was a solar charging option, but changing the battery is easy and convenient.
Aesthetics and performance
During the first press preview I attended, Lutron showed off the new sunglasses in action. With a modern and minimalist aesthetic, I have found the quality and appearance of the shades to be on par with higher quality custom options and I would happily install them in my own home. The motor mechanism was whisper quiet (Lutron claims a volume of 38 decibels) and the blinds' movements can be synchronized to ensure a sleek, cohesive appearance across multiple windows.
Availability
Caséta's smart sunglasses are only available via the Caséta website. Orders will be available starting January 5, 2025 and shipping will begin in February. With their combination of luxury features, DIY accessibility, and an attractive price point, these shades will appeal to both smart home enthusiasts and homeowners looking for an upgrade in comfort and convenience.
[Image credit: Josh Kirschner/Techlicious]