Smart mirrors are an innovative new technology that is transforming bathrooms, bedrooms, and more. These high-tech mirrors do far more than just reflect your image – they can connect to the internet, play music, offer weather updates, and much more.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore the history of smart mirrors, the key features you should look for when shopping, provide product recommendations across various categories, and give tips on how to choose and install the best smart mirror for your needs.
A Brief History of Smart Mirror Technology
The concept of "smart" or "interactive" mirrors first started gaining attention in the early 2010s. Technology companies and startups realized that bathrooms and bedrooms featured a prime surface that was largely underutilized – the mirror.
By incorporating transparent LCD displays and touchscreen interfaces into mirrors, companies could transform them into connected smart home hubs. Early smart mirror prototypes incorporated things like weather and news feeds, calendars, smart home controls, and more.
The first mainstream smart mirror launched on Kickstarter in 2014. Called MemoMi, it featured an integrated touchscreen display behind the glass allowing users to check the weather, date, time, and more. MemoMi raised over $600,000 on Kickstarter, showing the public interest for such a product.
Since then, the smart mirror market has continued to grow and evolve. Today there are models with built-in voice assistants, lighting controls, speakers, motion sensors, and more. Large technology companies like Google and Amazon have also shown interest in developing smart mirror technologies.
As prices continue to drop and new features are introduced, smart mirrors are bound to gain more widespread consumer adoption in the coming years. But even today, they can be a stylish and useful upgrade for modern, connected homes.
Key Smart Mirror Features To Look For
When shopping for a smart mirror, there are a few key features and specifications you’ll want to consider:
Display: Smart mirrors feature an LCD display behind the glass to enable features like calendar integration, app notifications, weather widgets, and more. Look for HD quality displays to ensure clarity.
Lighting: Many smart mirrors have built-in lighting around the borders, allowing you to adjust brightness and color temperature for perfect visibility. Stepless dimming allows granular lighting customization.
Speakers: High-end models feature built-in speakers, letting you stream music or podcasts from your smartphone via Bluetooth while getting ready in the morning.
Voice Control: Select smart mirrors offer integration with voice assistants. With built-in mics, you can issue voice commands to get the weather, set reminders, control smart home devices, and more hands-free.
Frameless Design: Frameless smart mirrors mounted directly on the wall have a sleek, modern aesthetic. This mounting style helps maximize the visible mirror surface area.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Smart mirrors that connect directly to your home Wi-Fi network can offer expanded functionality and smarter integrations. However, Wi-Fi isn‘t required for core features like lighting.
When selecting a smart mirror, think about which features would benefit your lifestyle and bathroom/bedroom setup the most. Not all smart mirrors offer every feature, so focus on your most wanted functionality.
Top Smart Mirror Recommendations
Based on extensive research and hands-on testing, these are the best smart mirrors available today in various categories:
Overall Best Smart Mirror: BYECOLD Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Bathroom Mirror
Key Features:
- Frameless design
- Built-in anti-fog feature
- Connects to Wi-Fi for weather/time display
- Adjustable color temperature (3000-6000k)
- Works with Android/iOS app
For the best overall smart mirror, we recommend the BYECOLD Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Bathroom Mirror. Beyond the integrated lighting and anti-fogging, the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity makes this the smartest pick. Using the companion iOS/Android app, you can view weather forecasts, the outdoor temperature, time, and date directly on the mirror‘s surface.
The frameless aesthetic ensures it will fit into any modern bathroom. It‘s available in five sizes ranging from 24-inches to a massive 40-inch version. The adjustable color temperature also enables better visibility for makeup application or bathroom shaving.
Best Budget: Butylux LED Backlit Mirror
Key Features:
- 75,000 hour LED lifespan rating
- Adjustable color temperature (3000k-6000k)
- Hardwired or plug-in installation
- Memory function recalls last brightness setting
As far as budget-friendly smart mirror options go, we recommend the 24-inch round Butylux LED Backlit Mirror. Despite the affordable price tag, it doesn‘t skimp on features. The integrated LED lighting is dimmable and adjustable from 10% to 100% brightness. It also includes an anti-fog functionality – a must for steamy bathroom mirrors.
While it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, the plug-and-play design still makes this an excellent entry-level pick for anyone looking to upgrade to a smart mirror on a budget.
Best Full-Length Smart Mirror: NeuType 65” LED Lighted Mirror
Key Features:
- Extra-large 65” x 22” viewing area
- Can be oriented vertically or horizontally
- Hardwired or plug-in installation
- Memory function recalls last used brightness
This full-length 65-inch smart mirror from NeuType is perfect for full-body viewing. The tall orientation shows your entire profile making it ideal for bedroom or closet installation. It‘s also suitable for large bathrooms.
Despite the large size, it still includes the core smart mirror features buyers expect like stepless dimming LED borders. The lighting temperature adjusts from a warm 3000k up to a bright daylight 5000k. There‘s also an anti-fog functionality to combat steam.
Overall this is the best full-length smart mirror solution available today, providing ample smart lighting features and a spacious viewing area.
Best Portable Smart Mirror: Funtouch 10x Magnifying Makeup Mirror
Key Features:
- Portable and lightweight
- 10x magnification mirror
- Built-in rechargeable 2,000mAh battery
- Integrated smartphone holder
For ultimate portability and flexibility, consider the Funtouch Rechargeable 10x Magnifying Makeup Mirror. The circular mirror comes on a detachable stand with adjustable angles and rotation. When removed from the stand, the built-in battery gives you up to 3 hours portable runtime – perfect for travel.
There’s also a handy smartphone holder for watching makeup tutorials and video calls. Plus, you get the 10x magnification panel for precise makeup application or skincare analysis. The 25 LEDs surrounding the mirror are adjustable to three brightness levels.
Overall, it‘s the best portable smart mirror thanks to the versatile positioning, long battery life, and smartphone integration.
Best Smart Mirror with Speakers: Fenchilin Bluetooth Lighted Vanity Mirror
Key Features:
- Built-in Bluetooth speakers
- Adjustable LED temperature (3000k-7500k)
- Features USB charging port
- Includes mini detachable magnified mirror
If built-in audio is a must-have, your best option is the Fenchilin Bluetooth Lighted Vanity Mirror. The included Bluetooth 4.2 technology allows you to effortlessly sync your smartphone or tablet to stream music through the mirror‘s dual speakers while getting ready.
This gives you the flexibility to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, meditation tracks, and more. You also get 15 dimmable LED bulbs wrapped around the edge along with USB charging capabilities for added convenience. Overall, it‘s the smartest mirror pick for in-mirror audio.
Smart Mirror Buying and Installation Guide
Ready to take the plunge and install a smart mirror in your home? Here’s a complete guide to the buying and installation process:
Step 1: Select the Ideal Room Location
Smart mirrors are commonly installed in bathrooms, bedrooms, dressing rooms, and entryways. Consider which room you’d benefit from an intelligent mirror the most. Measure the physical wall dimensions to ensure proper sizing.
Step 2: Check Electrical Requirements
Ensure the installation area has a viable power outlet to plug in the smart mirror. If not, you’ll need to factor in electrician wiring costs. Alternatively, some mirrors can run on battery packs. Check the product description to confirm power specs.
Step 3: Pick the Right Mounting Height
The ideal mounting height depends on mirror purpose and usage. For everyday use, center the mirror 60-65 inches high. Full-length mirrors should start 12 inches off the ground. Lighted makeup mirrors work best 48-52 inches high when seated.
Step 4: Carefully Measure and Mark Stud Locations
Locate the wall studs using a stud finder. Mark their exact locations with a pencil for drilling. Ensure you have at least two studs to mount the mirror securely. For heavy mirrors, anchor into as many studs possible.
Step 5: Follow Exact Mounting Instructions
The mounting process varies by mirror models based on size, weight, and attachments. Thoroughly read and follow all mounting directions included with your mirror. Rushing this step risks a dangerous drooping mirror.
Step 6: Connect Power and Enjoy Your New Smart Mirror!
Plug in your new smart mirror following electrical safety precautions. Turn on the power and test out all of the high-tech features! Adjust locations, angles, or settings until you achieve the perfect smart mirror setup.
Frequently Asked Smart Mirror Questions
Still have some lingering questions about smart mirrors? Below we answer some of the most common smart mirror FAQs:
Are smart mirrors difficult to install?
Basic installation is straightforward with included hardware and instructions. However, hardwired electrical connections may require hiring an electrician depending on your setup.
What makes a mirror “smart”?
Smart mirrors include LED lighting, anti-fogging technology, built-in speakers, magnified panels, and connectivity features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These transforms ordinary mirrors into connected smart home devices.
Which smart mirror brands are the most reliable?
Top manufacturers like Electric Mirror, Simplehuman, and Keonjinn make exceptionally durable smart mirrors built to last a lifetime in the harsh bathroom environment.
Can you replace LED bulbs in smart mirrors?
It depends on the specific model. Some smart mirrors use integrated, custom LED strips. But many use replaceable LED bulbs or strips as these components fail faster than the mirror itself.
Do smart mirrors have privacy risks?
Basic smart mirrors without cameras or mics have virtually no privacy risks. However, some high-end models do incorporate cameras, voice assistants, and apps which could present security vulnerabilities if hacked. Disconnect these mirrors from Wi-Fi when not needed.
Conclusion
From LED lighting to anti-fog tech, today‘s best smart mirrors offer cutting-edge functionality perfect for modern, connected homes. With options across budgets and feature sets, you can find the ideal pick to suit your unique needs and environment.
Use this guide to narrow down the ideal style, size, and features for your lifestyle. And leverage our smart mirror recommendations across categories to discover the perfect high-tech mirror upgrade.
When installed properly, a quality smart mirror becomes a stylish focal point of your space while providing helpful amenities. So start researching models today and take your home to the next level with this innovative new technology!
