On this page
What it does
- Privacy on demand. Frosted when off, clear when on [3]. People can't see in while it's frosted.
- Keeps the daylight. In the frosted state, most daylight still comes through [2][3].
- Some heat blocking. One maker says its film blocks 12% of infrared heat when clear and 73% when frosted [2].
What it doesn't do
- It's not sun control film. A Los Angeles installer says smart film doesn't match the heat rejection of dedicated solar control window film [4]. If heat and glare are your main problem, regular tint or electrochromic glass may fit better.
- It doesn't darken. Standard PDLC film goes white and frosted, not dark [3]. Glass that tints darker is a different product, such as SPD or electrochromic glass [1].
- It needs power. Every pane connects to a transformer and controls [3][4].
What it costs per window
HomeAdvisor lists these costs per window [1]:
| Window (inches) | Cost per window |
|---|---|
| 24 x 36 | $150 to $900 |
| 32 x 48 | $275 to $1,650 |
| 48 x 60 | $500 to $3,000 |
| 60 x 36 | $375 to $2,250 |
HomeGuide lists installed smart film at $175 to $350 for a 24 x 36 window and $600 to $1,200 for a 48 x 60 window [5]. The LA installer prices a 15 sq ft window at $1,125 to $2,625, including wiring and controls [4]. Prices vary a lot by area and by how much wiring is needed, so get more than one quote.
Where it works best at home
- Bedroom or bathroom windows that face close neighbors.
- Front doors with glass panels, and sidelights.
- Glass doors and partitions inside the home, such as a home office.
For bathrooms, read our bathroom privacy glass guide.
Power and controls
Power use is small. One maker says 120 sq ft uses no more than a 60-watt bulb [2]. Controls can be a wall switch, remote, phone app, or Alexa or Google Home [3]. If the power fails, standard film goes frosted, so you keep your privacy [3].
FAQ
Can I see out when smart tint is frosted?
No. Frosted film scatters light in both directions, so you can't see out clearly either [3]. Light still comes in. To see out, switch it clear.
Is smart tint the same as smart tint for cars?
No. Car smart tint is a separate product for vehicle glass, usually sold by auto tint shops. This site covers home and office glass only.
See smart film costs or request quotes for your windows.
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