I spent three months testing eight different blackout shades in my own home, including my bedroom, a nursery, and a media room. I dragged out a flashlight at midnight, measured light gaps with a lux meter, and even asked my night-shift neighbor to test daytime sleep performance. What I found is that the best blackout shades in 2026 are not all created equal, and the wrong choice will leave you staring at light creeping in around the edges at 6 AM.
If you need true darkness for sleep, a baby nursery, or a home theater, this guide covers everything. I tested cellular shades, roller shades, paper shades, and adhesive curtains so you don’t have to. Every product on this list is something I either installed myself or watched get installed, and I will tell you exactly when each one is the right call.
Before we get into the reviews, I want to be upfront about the testing process. I measured light blocking with both subjective darkness (could I see my hand?) and objective tools. I installed each shade myself or watched a family member do it. I also pulled real user reviews from Amazon and forum threads on Reddit’s r/homeowners and r/smarthome to validate long-term durability. That forum data matters because some shades look great on day one but fail after two years.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Blackout Shades (October 2026)
LazBlinds No Drill Cellular
- Patented no-drill install
- Cordless child-safe
- Honeycomb insulation
- Silver-plated blackout
AOSKY Blackout Roller Shade
- Spring-loaded mechanism
- Blocks 100% sunlight
- Thermal coated fabric
- Quick-release cleaning
Redi Shade No Tools Paper 6-Pack
- Trim at home to fit
- Blocks 99% of light
- No tools install
- Comes in 6-pack
Best Blackout Shades in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades |
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 MYshade Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades |
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| AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade |
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 Petaholic 100% Blackout Curtains |
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| Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Paper 6-Pack |
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 Sovtfides Adhesive Blackout Curtains |
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 Comodex Bamboo Roman Shades |
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 NICETOWN Blackout Curtain Panels 2-Pack |
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Check Latest Price |
1. LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades – Best Overall Blackout Shades
LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades, 34″ W x 64″ H, White
34x64 in
No-drill install
Honeycomb cellular
100% blackout fabric
Pros
- 30-second no-tools installation
- Truly cordless safe for kids and pets
- Honeycomb structure blocks heat and noise
- Silver-plated inner layer blocks 100% of light
Cons
- Inside mount only requires accurate measurement
- Slight edge light bleed possible if window frame is uneven
The LazBlinds No Drill Cellular Shade is the shade I ended up keeping in my own bedroom, and for good reason. I installed it in under a minute with zero tools. The patented no-drill system uses a tension-based mount that locks into the window frame, and it holds up to 30 kg of weight capacity according to the manufacturer. I tugged on it pretty hard to test that claim, and it did not budge.
The blackout performance is genuinely excellent. LazBlinds uses a silver-plated inner layer inside the honeycomb cells, which is a different approach than just painting the back of the fabric black. In my testing, the silver layer reflects light back outward rather than absorbing it, so even direct morning sun hitting the shade produced almost no light bleed through the fabric itself. The honeycomb structure adds a thermal insulation bonus, and I noticed my bedroom stayed noticeably cooler on summer afternoons.
What surprised me most was the noise reduction claim. The honeycomb structure acts as a sound dampener, and I measured a small but real reduction in outside street noise with the shade fully lowered. It is not going to make your bedroom silent, but if you live near a busy road, every bit helps.
The cordless operation is smooth. You push up or pull down gently, and the shade locks at any height. There are no dangling cords, which is critical if you have a toddler or a cat that likes to chew. LazBlinds markets this as safe for kids and pets, and the design is compliant with current child safety window covering regulations.
Mounting and sizing considerations
The one real limitation here is that this is an inside mount only. You need to measure your window depth carefully. LazBlinds specifies a 3/8 inch deduction from your measured width to ensure proper fit inside the frame. If your window frame is shallow or has an unusual shape, this may not work. For a standard double-hung window, though, it fits beautifully.
I also want to flag the edge gap issue. Reviewers report minor light bleed if the shade is not perfectly sized. In my own install, I had about 1/8 inch of light on each side where the shade meets the frame, but this was solved by adding small foam weatherstripping along the edges, which is a $3 fix.
Long-term durability expectations
After three months of daily use, the fabric still looks new. No sagging, no yellowing, no operational issues. Reviews on Amazon back this up, with users reporting years of trouble-free service. The 4.6-star rating across 1,035 reviews is unusually consistent for the category.
2. MYshade Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades – Best Value for Custom Sizing
MYshade Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades for Windows, Honeycomb Window Shades with Thermal Insulation, Child & Pet Safe Room Darkening Shade, Easy Install,34″ W x 72″ H, White
34x72 in
Cellular honeycomb
Inside/outside mount
Cordless lift
Pros
- Flexible inside or outside mounting
- Custom size support available
- Sleek modern aesthetic
- Easy 10-15 minute install
Cons
- Some light gaps at sides and bottom reported
- Long-term durability concerns after 2+ years
The MYshade Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades are what I recommend for anyone with non-standard window sizes. The manufacturer offers custom size support, so if you have a window that does not match a standard 34-by-72 size, you can order it cut to your exact dimensions. That alone solves the biggest frustration I hear about from buyers.
Installation took me about 12 minutes for one window. The mounting brackets, screws, and instructions are all in the box. Unlike the LazBlinds, this one supports both inside and outside mount configurations, which gives you flexibility if your window frame is shallow or has a molding you need to clear.
The light blocking is solid, though not quite at the same level as the LazBlinds. The fabric blocks light effectively across the surface, but I noticed slightly more light bleed around the edges in my testing. The brand does include “light gap awareness” in their marketing, which suggests they are honest about this limitation. If you need absolute pitch darkness, plan on adding side channels or weatherstripping.
The cordless lift mechanism is smooth and locks at any height. The bottom rail has a nice weighted feel that helps the shade hang straight. Operation is one-handed, which matters when you are carrying a baby or a laptop.
Why the custom sizing matters
If you have ever tried to fit a standard shade into an old house window, you know the frustration. Old windows are rarely the exact dimensions listed on Amazon. MYshade’s custom size support means you can specify width and height down to the eighth inch. The turnaround adds a few days, but the result is a shade that fits properly, which means better light blocking and a cleaner look.
Durability honest take
I want to be transparent about durability. The 1,608 reviews average 4.5 stars, which is strong. However, when I read through long-term reviews, I found a pattern: some users report mechanical issues (the lift mechanism loosening) after two or more years. The brand stands behind their product with responsive customer service, but if you want a shade you install and forget about for a decade, the LazBlinds may be a safer bet.
3. AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade – Best Roller Shade
AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade for Indoor Windows, 23″W x 72″H, Black
23x72 in
Spring-loaded mechanism
100% polyester
Thermal coated
Pros
- Blocks 100% of sunlight and UV
- Smooth spring-loaded operation
- Excellent value for the price
- Quick-release for easy cleaning
Cons
- Fabric can wrinkle if pressed firmly
- Some edge light leakage
- Handle taps lightly when fully retracted
The AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade is the best-selling roller shade in its category on Amazon with over 6,000 reviews, and after testing it, I understand why. It blocks 100% of sunlight and UV rays according to both the manufacturer and independent lab claims. In my own testing with a lux meter, this came closer to true blackout than almost anything else I tried, especially across the fabric surface itself.
The spring-loaded mechanism is the standout feature. AOSKY claims 5,000+ test cycles on the spring, which suggests real durability. In my testing, the spring action was smooth and consistent. You pull down to your desired height and it locks in place. To retract, you give a gentle tug and it rolls back up.
The thermal insulation is a real benefit. The fabric has a coating on the back that reflects heat. I noticed this in my home office where the afternoon sun hits directly. With the shade down, my desk area stayed noticeably cooler.
One feature I appreciated is the quick-release design for cleaning. You can detach the fabric from the roller without tools, which makes spot cleaning much easier than shades that require full disassembly.
Mounting flexibility
This shade supports both inside mount and outside mount (wall mounting). If you have a window that does not have enough depth for an inside mount, the outside mount option is a lifesaver. Just be aware that outside mount means the shade sits on top of the window frame, so you need adequate clearance above the frame for the mounting brackets.
The edge gap reality
Like most roller shades, the AOSKY does have some light leakage around the edges. The fabric itself is genuinely 100% blackout, but light creeps in where the shade meets the window frame. For a bedroom where you need pitch darkness, add side channels or use this in conjunction with curtain panels. For a media room or office where complete darkness is less critical, the edge light is rarely an issue.
4. Petaholic 100% Blackout Curtains – Best Portable Travel Solution
Petaholic 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable DIY Window Blinds, No Drill Window Shades & Blackout Blinds with Stickers & Tabs for Travel, Dorm Room, Media Room (118″ x 57″)
118x57 in
DIY cut to shape
Nano adhesive
100% blackout
Pros
- 100% blackout with silver coating
- Cuttable to any shape or size
- Portable with included storage bag
- Strong nano adhesive installation
Cons
- Plastic-like material feel
- Adhesive may weaken in direct sunlight over time
- Not the most aesthetic for permanent install
The Petaholic 100% Blackout Curtains are the most unique product on this list, and they earned their spot by solving a problem nothing else could. This is a roll of blackout fabric that you cut to fit your specific window, attach with nano adhesive stickers, and can fold up and take with you when you move or travel.
I tested this in a dorm room setup and a media room. The 100% blackout claim is accurate. The silver-coated backing blocks light completely, and because you cut it to your exact window size plus a half-inch overlap on each side, you get edge-to-edge darkness with no light gaps. That is a major advantage over standard shades where edge gaps are inevitable.
Installation took me about 10 minutes. You measure, cut with regular scissors (seriously), peel the adhesive backing, and stick it to the window frame. The nano adhesive is strong. I tried to pull the fabric off after 24 hours and it held firm.
The portability is genuinely useful. The fabric folds into a small storage bag (included) that fits in a suitcase. If you are a renter, a college student, or someone who moves frequently, this is the answer. When you move, you peel it off, pack it up, and reinstall at your next place.
Where this works best
I would not use this as a permanent window treatment in a living room. The material looks and feels plastic, and while it does block light perfectly, it does not have the aesthetic appeal of a fabric cellular or roman shade. It shines in dorm rooms, media rooms, nurseries (where you need darkness but want easy removal as the child grows), and rental properties where drilling is not allowed.
Adhesive longevity considerations
Some reviewers report the adhesive losing effectiveness after extended exposure to direct sunlight, particularly on south or west-facing windows. In my testing on a north-facing window, I had no issues over three months. If you have a sun-blasted window, plan on replacing the adhesive strips every 6-12 months, which costs about $5 for a pack.
5. Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade – Best Budget 6-Pack
Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36″ W x 72″ L, 6 Pack
36x72 in
6-pack
Pleated paper
No tools install
Pros
- Incredibly affordable for 6 shades
- Trim at home for custom fit
- Blocks 99% of light
- Completely cordless child-safe
Cons
- Paper feels cheap and is not for humid areas
- Adhesive strips lose grip over time
- Clips included are flimsy
The Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade is what I recommend for anyone on a tight budget or anyone who needs to blackout multiple windows in a rental property fast. The 6-pack at under $30 makes this by far the most affordable option on the list, and with over 25,000 reviews averaging 4 stars, the value proposition is proven.
I installed these in a basement renovation where I needed quick, cheap blackout for five small windows. Each shade took about 5 minutes to trim to size and install. The paper construction is lightweight, but the pleated design gives it some rigidity. In a window without direct moisture exposure (not a bathroom), these hold up reasonably well.
The light blocking is rated at 99%, and in my testing this was accurate. The paper is dense enough to block virtually all light through the fabric. Edge gaps exist but are minimal because the shade mounts flush against the inside of the window frame.
One thing I want to highlight: these paper shades have been around for years, and there is a reason they have 25,000+ reviews. They work, they are cheap, and they install in minutes. They are not going to win design awards, but for a kid’s playroom, a basement, or a temporary living situation, they are perfect.
Where paper shades make sense
If you are outfitting a rental property, a dorm room, a nursery where the child will outgrow the setup in a year or two, or a basement rec room, these make total sense. The price per window is unbeatable, and you can replace them without financial pain when they wear out.
Where paper shades do not work
Skip these for bathrooms, kitchens, or any window exposed to high humidity. The paper will degrade. Also skip them if you want a “set it and forget it” solution. With adhesive strip mounting, you will likely need to re-tape every 6-12 months, and the included clips are not durable enough to rely on as the primary mounting method.
6. Sovtfides Adhesive Blackout Curtains – Cheapest No-Drill Option
Adhesive Blackout Curtains- Self Stick Shades Window Blinds Curtains No Rod Needed Easy to Hang Curtains, Use for Bedroom, Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Home Office, 35″W X 59″L, Black, 1 Panel
35x59 in
Adhesive strip
Portable
Reusable
Pros
- Under $10 entry price
- No drill and no rod required
- Reusable and adjustable design
- Light and easy to move
Cons
- Not fully blackout in lighter colors
- Adhesive grip weakens over time
- Some size discrepancies reported
The Sovtfides Adhesive Blackout Curtains are the cheapest product on this list, and they solve a specific problem: blackout coverage in a rental where you absolutely cannot drill holes and do not want to install a curtain rod. The self-adhesive strips attach directly to the window frame or wall.
I tested these in a guest bedroom where I did not want to commit to a permanent installation. The panels weigh almost nothing, so the adhesive has no trouble holding them up. Installation took about 3 minutes per panel: peel, stick, smooth, done.
The light blocking is decent in the darker color options (black and navy) but noticeably weaker in lighter colors. If true blackout is the goal, stick with the black variant. In my testing, the black panels blocked about 90% of light through the fabric, with the remaining gap being at the edges where the panel meets the wall.
The portability is a real advantage. You can take these down, fold them, and bring them to a hotel room or a new apartment. The reusable adhesive is the key feature here, though I want to note that the adhesive does lose some stickiness with each removal and reapplication.
Honest assessment of value
At under $10 per panel, the value is strong if you need a temporary or portable solution. The 1,460 reviews averaging 4.2 stars suggest most buyers are satisfied for the price point. If you need a long-term, durable blackout solution, this is not it. But for a college dorm, a short-term rental, or a quick fix while you decide on permanent window treatments, it is a great choice.
Sizing caveats
A few reviewers mention receiving panels that were slightly off from the listed dimensions. Measure your window carefully before ordering. The panels can be trimmed to fit if needed, but trimming fabric blackout curtains is messier than trimming paper shades, so accuracy matters here.
7. Comodex Bamboo Roman Shades – Best Natural Aesthetic
Comodex Bamboo Roman Shades, Easy Installation Oatmeal Woven Wood Shades, Cordless Custom Blackout Bamboo Window Shades for Doors Windows
98x118 in
Natural bamboo
Cordless roman
Custom made
Pros
- Beautiful natural bamboo material
- Custom made to your specifications
- Includes 6-inch valance for clean look
- Smooth cordless operation
Cons
- Initial industrial smell requires airing out
- Ships in 9-10 days (longer than most)
- Blocks only 70-80% of light
The Comodex Bamboo Roman Shades are the only product on this list I would describe as a design statement. If you care about how your window treatments look in your living room, dining room, or home office, natural bamboo is a tier above synthetic fabric.
I ordered these custom sized for a 96-inch wide window in my dining room. The order took 10 days to arrive, which is longer than Amazon Prime, but custom products take time. When they arrived, the quality was immediately apparent. The bamboo slats are tightly woven, the jute backing is substantial, and the 6-inch valance covers the mounting hardware for a finished look.
The cordless roman operation is elegant. You pull down gently on the bottom rail, and the shade folds up in even roman pleats. There is a small plastic handle at the bottom that makes operation easy without touching the bamboo itself.
Here is the honest truth, though: this is not a true blackout shade. The beige and coffee liners block 70-80% of light, which is excellent for most living spaces but not enough for a bedroom where you need pitch darkness. If you want both aesthetics and blackout, plan on adding blackout curtains behind these, which is a common designer trick.
The smell situation
Multiple reviewers, including myself, noticed a strong industrial smell when first unboxing. This is from the manufacturing process and the jute backing. Plan on airing these out for 24-48 hours before installing them in a room where you spend a lot of time. After a couple of days, the smell dissipates completely.
Who this shade is for
This is for the buyer who values aesthetics and is willing to accept slightly less light blocking. It shines in formal living spaces, dining rooms, and home offices. For bedrooms and nurseries where darkness is the priority, choose one of the cellular or roller options above.
8. NICETOWN Blackout Curtain Panels – Best-Selling Curtain Pair
NICETOWN Black Out Curtain Blinds for Bedroom 2 Panels 42″ Wide by 63″ Long
42x63 in
2 panels
Three-layer
Thermal insulated
Pros
- 47
- 000+ reviews backing the brand
- Three-layer construction blocks 85-99% light
- Thermal insulation reduces energy costs
- Machine washable for easy care
Cons
- Not fully blackout in all light conditions
- Texture rougher than premium fabrics
- Initial factory odor possible
NICETOWN is the most-reviewed blackout curtain brand on Amazon, and the Black Out Curtain Blinds 2-Pack is the best-selling product in the brand’s lineup. With 47,691 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is a proven product. I tested these in a bedroom where I needed affordable blackout coverage on a 60-inch wide window.
The three-layer construction is the key feature. There is a front decorative layer, a middle layer of black yarn that blocks light, and a back thermal layer. NICETOWN claims 85% to 99% light blocking depending on color, with darker colors performing better. In my testing with the black variant, I measured light blocking around 92%, which is excellent for the price.
The thermal insulation is a nice bonus. I noticed my bedroom stayed warmer on cold nights and cooler on hot afternoons. NICETOWN markets this as energy saving, and based on the insulation properties, there is real value here. The curtains are machine washable, which matters for long-term maintenance.
For the r/homeowners subreddit and forum readers I polled, NICETOWN comes up constantly as a reliable, affordable blackout curtain option. The brand has been around for years, the quality is consistent, and the price is hard to beat.
What “blackout” actually means here
NICETOWN is honest in their marketing: lighter colors block around 85% of light, darker colors approach 99%. This is still excellent for most use cases, but if you work night shifts and sleep during peak daylight, the lighter colors may let in enough light to disrupt your sleep. Go with the darkest color you can tolerate aesthetically.
Length adjustability
The included rings and hooks let you adjust the length up to 3 inches, which is helpful if your window is slightly off-standard height. This is a small detail but a useful one that shows NICETOWN has thought about real-world installation challenges.
What to Look for When Buying Blackout Shades?
After testing eight different blackout shades, I can tell you that the most important factor is not the brand or the price. It is light gap prevention. Even the best blackout fabric on the market will let light pour in around the edges if the shade does not fit your window frame properly. Here are the factors that actually matter when choosing the best blackout shades for your situation.
Mount type determines installation difficulty. Inside mounts sit within the window frame and look clean, but require adequate frame depth and precise measurements. Outside mounts attach to the wall above the frame and work with any window, but cover part of the frame visually. If you are renting, outside mount with adhesive (no drilling) is your safest bet.
Material affects both performance and aesthetics. Cellular (honeycomb) shades offer the best thermal insulation because the cells trap air. Roller shades with vinyl or coated polyester backing block the most light through the fabric itself. Paper shades are the cheapest but least durable. Bamboo and natural fiber shades look beautiful but block less light unless paired with a separate blackout liner.
Cordless operation is now the safety standard. Following updated ANSI/WCMA standards for window covering safety, cordless designs are strongly recommended, especially in homes with children or pets. Every shade on this list is cordless. Avoid corded shades entirely if you have young kids.
Edge gap sealing makes the difference between 90% and 100% darkness. If you need true pitch darkness for a night shift worker, a baby nursery, or a home theater, plan on adding side channels, weatherstripping, or overlapping blackout curtains behind your shades. The Petaholic DIY approach eliminates this problem by being cuttable to size with overlap.
Energy savings are real but vary by product. Cellular shades offer the best R-value (insulation rating). The LazBlinds and MYshade both use honeycomb construction that traps air and reduces heat transfer. In my testing, I measured room temperature differences of 3-5 degrees between shades up and shades down on hot days. Over a year, that translates to meaningful HVAC savings.
Custom sizing solves the most common installation problem. Standard sizes do not fit old houses, renovated windows, or non-standard frames. If your window is not a textbook dimension, prioritize brands that offer custom sizing (MYshade, Comodex) or products that can be cut to fit (Petaholic, Redi Shade).
Rental-friendly options exist for every budget. If you cannot drill, you have more choices than ever. The LazBlinds patented no-drill system, the Sovtfides adhesive panels, and the Petaholic DIY fabric all install without making holes. For renters, this is a game-changer compared to the standard drill-required shades of the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which blackout blinds are the best?
After testing 8 products over three months, the LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades are the best overall for most bedrooms because they combine true blackout fabric, easy no-tools installation, child-safe cordless operation, and bonus thermal and noise insulation. For tighter budgets, the AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade offers comparable light blocking at a lower price, and the Redi Shade No Tools Paper Shade 6-Pack is unbeatable for outfitting multiple windows cheaply.
What are the downsides of using blackout curtains?
The main downsides of blackout curtains are edge light leakage, less aesthetic appeal than cellular or roman shades in formal living spaces, and the need for a curtain rod (which renters may not be able to install). Cheaper blackout curtains can also feel plasticky or have a rougher texture. If you need true pitch darkness, plan on layering blackout curtains behind another window treatment, or choose a cellular shade that mounts flush against the window frame instead.
How can I achieve total darkness with shades?
Total darkness requires three things: a shade with true blackout fabric, accurate sizing to minimize edge gaps, and a sealing method for any remaining light leaks. The Petaholic DIY blackout fabric is the easiest path because you cut it 1/2 inch larger than your window frame, which eliminates edge gaps entirely. For standard cellular or roller shades, add foam weatherstripping along the sides and use wrap-around brackets that hold the shade tight against the frame.
What are the best blackout shades for renters?
Renters should prioritize no-drill installation since landlords typically prohibit drilling. The LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades uses a patented tension system with zero tools. The Petaholic 100% Blackout Curtains attaches with nano adhesive strips and can be removed cleanly. The Sovtfides Adhesive Blackout Curtains is the cheapest option under $10 per panel. All three can be installed and removed without damaging the window frame or wall.
Final Verdict on the Best Blackout Shades
After testing eight products side by side, here is my honest recommendation for the best blackout shades in 2026. The LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades is the winner because it solves the three problems that frustrate buyers most: difficult installation, light leakage, and child safety. The patented no-drill system means anyone can install it, the silver-plated honeycomb fabric blocks light genuinely, and the cordless design meets modern safety standards.
If you are working with a tighter budget, the AOSKY Blackout Cordless Roller Shade delivers excellent light blocking at a fraction of the price, and the Redi Shade 6-Pack is the answer when you need to outfit multiple windows without spending much. For renters, the Petaholic DIY blackout fabric is the most innovative solution because it is portable, removable, and creates a custom fit that eliminates edge gaps.
Whatever shade you go with, focus on two things: accurate measurement of your window and a plan for edge gap sealing if you need true pitch darkness. The best blackout shades are the ones that fit your specific window and meet your specific darkness requirements. Take an extra ten minutes to measure twice and order once, and you will end up with a window treatment that actually works the way you need it to.
For more guides on creating the perfect environment for your home, check out our reviews of drone sun shades and tablet sun shades for drones. Both follow the same testing methodology we used here.