Remote Control Curtains: What You Actually Get

Remote control curtains do exactly what the name says: the track has a motor built in, and you open or close your curtains with a button rather than by hand. There are no cords, no wands, and no need to get up off the sofa. For large windows, high ceilings, or anyone with limited mobility, it makes a genuine difference.

Most of what we sell is the Silent Gliss Autoglide 5100. It is a Swiss-made motorised curtain track that has been the workhorse of the electric curtain market for years. Here is what you need to know before you buy one.

How the 5100 is controlled

The Autoglide 5100 comes in several variants, and the variant determines what control options you get.

• Wireless wall button - a battery-powered rocker switch you mount on the wall. No wiring required. This comes with most variants.
• Handheld remote - the R and TC variants include a handheld remote control. The standard remote is infrared, which means it needs a clear line of sight to the track. The radio remote works through walls, so you can operate the curtains from another room or from outside the door.
• Programmable timer - the T and TC variants have a built-in timer. You set it once and the curtains open and close at the times you choose. A lot of customers set theirs to open at 7am and close around sunset. It also works as a security measure when you are away: the curtains move as normal and the house does not look empty.
• Touch and Go - all 5100 variants support this. Give the curtain a gentle tug and the motor takes over, driving the curtain fully open or closed. Useful if your hands are full or you simply prefer not to use the remote.

What the 5100 does not do

The 5100 does not connect to an app or respond to voice commands. If you want to control your curtains from your phone or integrate them with Alexa or Google Home, you need the Silent Gliss 5600 with a Move Server. That is a step up in price and complexity, but it is the right choice if smart home integration matters to you.

For most domestic customers who just want reliable, quiet, remote-operated curtains, the 5100 is the better fit.

Installation

The track mounts to the ceiling or the wall, depending on your preference and the room layout. The motor is housed inside the track itself, so there is nothing bulky to hide. Wiring runs inside the track channel for a clean finish.

You need a 13A plug socket nearby. There is no hardwiring required, which keeps installation straightforward. Most customers have it fitted in a morning.

The track is cut to length before despatch, so it arrives ready to install. You specify the exact length when you order.

Curtain compatibility

The 5100 works with standard curtains using pinch pleat or eyelet headings. The gliders attach to the curtain hooks as normal. The motor is strong enough for most domestic curtain weights, including heavy lined curtains and velvet.

If you are unsure whether your existing curtains will work, get in touch and we can advise. It is usually a simple check based on the track length and curtain weight.

Accessories

You can add extra remotes, wall buttons, and other controls after installation. If you buy the basic version and later decide you want a timer or a handheld remote, there are options available. See our accessories section for the full range of compatible add-ons for the Autoglide system.

Is it worth it?

The 5100 is not the cheapest option on the market. It is considerably more expensive than the imported electric tracks you find on Amazon. The difference is build quality, noise level, and longevity. Silent Gliss guarantees the track for five years, and we have customers who have had them running daily for well over a decade without a fault.

The timer function alone pays for itself in peace of mind. The child safety benefit of no cords anywhere near the floor or at reach height is hard to put a price on.

Browse the full electric curtain track range or get in touch if you want help choosing the right variant for your room.