On this page
Cost by type
Not every kind of smart glass gives privacy. Only PDLC turns fully frosted, according to HomeAdvisor [1].
| Type | What it does | HomeAdvisor [1] | HomeGuide [2] |
|---|---|---|---|
| PDLC | Clear to frosted, instant privacy | $85 to $130 per sq ft | $85 to $150 |
| SPD | Adjustable tint, no full privacy | $50 to $150 | $80 to $130 |
| Electrochromic | Tints slowly, holds its setting | $50 to $100 | $90 to $120 |
The two guides disagree on electrochromic. HomeAdvisor calls it the cheapest option, while HomeGuide prices it above SPD. Get quotes for the type you actually want. For a deeper comparison, see smart film vs smart glass.
Cost by room
HomeGuide lists these installed prices [2]:
| Where | Installed cost |
|---|---|
| Bathroom window | $200 to $600 |
| Shower door | $1,300 to $2,700 |
| Living room window | $1,000 to $3,600 |
| Office partition wall | $2,000 to $7,000 |
| Skylight | $500 to $8,000 |
HomeAdvisor gives about $1,800 for a smart glass shower door, against about $940 for a regular glass one [1].
Maker prices
One manufacturer lists its switchable glass at $80 to $140 per sq ft before installation, and about $130 per sq ft for orders under 40 sq ft [3]. Shipping glass within North America runs $350 to $1,200 per order [3]. HomeGuide lists glass delivery at $300 to $1,200 [2].
Smart glass vs smart film price
Smart film goes onto glass you already have. HomeAdvisor puts it at $30 to $45 per sq ft [1]. A Los Angeles installer says factory smart glass costs $100 to $300 or more per sq ft, and that replacing glass can cost 2 to 4 times as much as a film retrofit [4]. Glass lasts longer: HomeGuide gives 20 to 30 years for laminated smart glass and 10 to 20 for film [2]. See the smart film cost guide.
What changes the price
- Size and quantity. HomeGuide says orders over 100 sq ft can drop to $70 to $100 per sq ft, against $130 to $150 for small single orders [2].
- Wiring. Smart glass needs a power connection. HomeGuide recommends a qualified electrician do this work, and up to code [2].
- Custom sizes and features. Custom shapes, special coatings, and app or voice controls add cost [2].
- Your area. Fewer qualified installers can mean higher prices [2].
FAQ
Does smart glass use a lot of electricity?
No. One maker says 120 sq ft of its glass or film uses about as much power as a 60-watt bulb [3]. Electrochromic glass needs power only to change its tint, according to Berkeley Lab [5].
Is smart glass worth it over blinds?
It depends on what you value. HomeAdvisor puts smart blinds or curtains at about $500 per window on average [1], far less than smart glass. Smart glass gives privacy with no fabric to clean and no view blocked when it's clear.
Request smart glass quotes or try the cost calculator.
A referral is not an endorsement, so check any installer yourself before you sign.
We're a referral service, not a contractor, and independent contractors may pay us for referrals.