Aqara Curtain Driver E1 Review
By Naila Syifa
Updated September 2023
If you're looking for an affordable and easy-to-install solution to automate your curtains, the Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 might be just what you need. It is a retrofit device designed to upgrade your traditional curtain to a smart one without replacing your entire curtain system.
Launched in 2022, Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 comes in two versions: the Rod Version ($99.99), and the Track version ($89.99). The only difference is the type of curtain supported, with the Rod Version accommodating curtain rods while the Track version supports U-rails and I-rails.
In this review, we'll take a closer look at the Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 and explore its design, features, and installation process.
On our list
#1 What's in the Box
#2 Design
#3 Features
#4 Installation Guide
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 (Rod Version)
Support curtain rods
✓ 6,000 mAh battery (up to 12 months)
✓ Maximum load 12 kg
✓ App control, scheduling, automations
✓ Requires Zigbee hub 3.0
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 (Track Version)
Support U-rails and I-rails
✓ 6,000 mAh battery (up to 12 months)
✓ Maximum load 12 kg
✓ App control, scheduling, automations
✓ Requires Zigbee hub 3.0
#1 What's in the Box
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1
Inside the box, you'll find a curtain driver, a USB cable for recharging the driver, a manual, and a mounting accessory. The type of mounting accessory you get depends on the version you purchase (Rod or Track). In addition, you will get a rubber strip and a set of eight white curtain clips to keep the curtains uniformly positioned, allowing the motor to pull the curtain seamlessly.
#2 Design
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 is 5.71 × 3.78 × 1.81 inches in size. The matte white color and its sleek and minimalist design blends in well with most interiors.
Despite its bulky appearance, the Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 is designed for durability and functionality. Its powerful 6,000 mAh battery provides up to 12 months of use, and it can support curtains weighing up to 12 kg. If you prefer a more discreet installation, the driver can also be hidden behind the curtain to avoid disrupting your home aesthetic.
#3 Features
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 allows you to open and close your curtains remotely via the Aqara Home App. By connecting the device with Alexa or Google Assistant, you can also control the driver using voice commands. The device also supports automatic schedules based on sunset/sunrise, local weather, or geofencing.
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 also has a built-in ambient light sensor that will automatically open or close curtains when it detects "weak ambient light" or "strong ambient light". If you have other external sensors (e.g., motion sensor, temperature sensor), you can also utilize them for more customized automation. For example, Aqara Motion Sensor can be configured to automatically open the curtains when entering the room for the first time in the morning.
Another advantage of this smart curtain driver is that you can also create Scenarios, in which you can configure the driver to open or close to a set position over a set amount of time. Alternatively, you can always open and close the curtains directly by gently tugging the curtain in the direction you want it to go.
If you're wondering how this smart curtain will be integrated into your smart home system, worry not because Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 is compatible with various smart home ecosystems including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT. Although Matter is not yet supported, it will be added to the list of compatible systems soon.
#4 Installation Guide
Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1
First of all, it is important to note that Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 comes with certain installation requirements. The Rod Version requires grommet or ring top curtains with a rod diameter of 25-32 mm and the rod should be uniform in thickness. The Track Version supports U-shaped rails with a bottom slotting width of ≤ 8mm and I-shaped rails with a bottom width of ≥10mm.
For more detailed requirements, check out the Aqara official website.
Installing the Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 is simple and straightforward. You can mount the mounting accessory into your existing curtain rods/tracks, then hook the driver into the accessory. After that, you can open the Aqara Home app, select the E1 from the product list, and follow the on-screen instructions to set the open and closed positions. If you have two Curtain Driver E1 units, you can bind them together in the app so they operate in sync.
A Zigbee 3.0 hub is required for the installation. This can be a drawback for people who don't have the hub because you will have to purchase it separately, making the total cost of setting up a smart curtain more pricey.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Aqara Smart Curtain Driver E1 is a great choice for anyone looking to automate their curtains without breaking the bank. It's easy to install, works with most types of curtains, and has a range of useful features. Whether you want to open your curtains with a voice command or set a schedule, this device has got you covered.
If you like to read more about Smart Curtain, check out our other relevant guides here:
Best Smart Curtain Singapore (With Price 2023)
SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2.0 Review (With PROS and CONS)
Aqara Curtain Driver E1 vs SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2
Quoya QL500 vs AT5810: Which Smart Curtain Set is Better?
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