What Is the Difference Between Electric Blinds and Motorised Blinds?

Specialist Blinds

Jul 22, 2025

.

3 mins read
Duette® Thermal Blinds on Sliding Doors

“Electric blinds” and “motorised blinds” are often used interchangeably and truthfully there’s no large difference. We generally use Electric Blindswhile referring to mains‑powered systems, while Motorised Blindscan be either mains or battery powered. Both use a motor and remote or smart control and all our bespoke blinds are hand‑crafted at our factory in Ashford, Kent

Is it worth getting electric blinds?

Absolutely. Our Pure™ Power electric systems are up to five times faster than many competitors and work perfectly across our different ranges of bespoke blinds; including rollers, Duette®, XL Lantern and Pinoleum. They offer speed, convenience and elegance especially helpful on hard‑to‑reach windows or large glazed areas.

What are the disadvantages of motorised blinds?

The main considerations are cost and sourcing power. Electric systems are more expensive than manual versions, and they need either a mains socket or occasional battery charging (depending on the blind and frequency of use, this is usually about once every 6 months). Otherwise, there aren’t many downsides, our expert fitting ensures smooth and easy operation.

Do electric blinds need to be hard wired?

Mains‑powered electric blinds plug into a standard 13 Amp socket or can be wired to a fused spur during installation. Battery‑powered motorised blinds are self‑contained and perfect where wiring isn’t practical.

Electric Blinds

What home automation systems are electric blinds compatible with?

You can control your blinds easily with services like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri and IFTTT.  Our Electric Blinds are also compatible with larger Home Automation systems, such as Lutron, Creston or Rako.

Do motorised blinds break easily?

No. Our high‑quality motors are robust and reliable. And with the ongoing support from our Care & Maintenance guides and MyBlinds portal, you’re covered for years to come.

How long do motorised blinds last?

With proper care, motorised systems can last a decade or more. Our support service includes tension checks, remote battery guidance and replacement parts  ensuring you get long-term value.

How often do electric blinds need charging?

Battery blinds vary depending on size and usage. Most need charging every 6–12 months. We provide quick-charge tutorials in our MyBlinds support area for all our customers.

How much more expensive are motorised blinds?

Electric systems carry a premium due to their  motors, wiring and installation. However, our Pure™ Power setups are designed for efficiency. They are  fast, sleek and integrated and compared with the cost of retrofitting later, the initial expense pays off.

What power is required for electric blinds?

Our motorisation systems require a standard 13 amp 3-pin plug near to where the blinds will be installed. In some cases, we can connect our blinds directly to a fused 13 amp spur. Battery-powered systems use rechargeable lithium batteries, no wiring needed.

Do motorised blinds need to be plugged in?

Only the mains-powered versions do. Battery-powered motorised blinds do not require a plug.

Large Motorised Apex Window Blinds

In summary

Both terms describe motor-driven blinds. The key difference is the power source:

  • Electric Blinds = mains-powered 
  • Motorised Blinds = mains or battery-power 

All our blinds are UK-made, managed via remote, app or voice command, and come with expert aftercare through MyBlinds. Explore our full electric range on the site, including bespoke XL Lantern Duo, Duette® and smart systems.

Visit our Electric Blinds page for more detail, or check out how we style them on Instagram. Want help designing your perfect system? Contact our team for a free consultation today.

Specialist Blinds

Jul 22, 2025

.

3 mins read
With over 30 years experience in creating bespoke blinds, the team of experts at Specialist Blinds have a wide range of knowledge on all types of blinds. From design, manufacture and fitting, we can provide expert advice not available elsewhere.

Back

Share

DOWNLOAD NOW

Brochure

Name(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

ARRANGE A CONSULTATION

Free Measurement Service

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.