Automate vs Somfy Roller Blind Motors: Which Is Right for You?
Updated: Aug 31
Choosing specifically between Somfy motors? Start with the Somfy Roller Blind Motor Buying Guide Australia.
Automate and Somfy both offer high-quality roller blind motors for Australian homes. Neither brand is automatically better for every project. The right choice comes down to tube compatibility, torque, power type, control protocol and the equipment already installed in the property.
Compare the current product ranges on our Automate motor page and Somfy motor page.
Quick comparison
Automate can be a strong fit when
You want the current Q rechargeable range, including 0.7Nm, 1.1Nm, 2.0Nm and 6Nm options.
The blind uses a common Australian tube with a confirmed Automate crown-and-drive set.
You already use Automate ARC remotes, wall controls or sensors.
You want compatible motors connected through the Pulse Pro ecosystem.
Somfy can be a strong fit when
You already have Somfy RTS motors or controls.
A Somfy motor is the best match for the tube, load and required torque.
You want to choose between current Somfy RTS and Zigbee pathways.
You plan to use compatible Somfy controls or TaHoma integration.
Start with compatibility, not the logo
For an existing blind, the tube was chosen before the motor. Identify the tube profile first, then compare only the Automate and Somfy motors that genuinely fit it.
Use the MMB tube identifier for S45, S40, S60, 38mm, HD50, S35, L45 and other recognised profiles.
The motor also needs the correct crown and drive. The drive must lock into the internal profile so the motor can rotate the tube without slipping.
Rechargeable options
Rechargeable motors are popular for existing blinds because they remove the need to run mains power to the window. Both brands offer rechargeable choices, but torque, adaptors, charging connections and protocols vary by model.
Compare current models in The Best Rechargeable Roller Blind Motors for Australian Homes.
Hardwired and low-voltage options
For a new build, renovation or high-use installation, a compatible 240V motor may be appropriate. Automate also offers 12V choices for planned low-voltage projects, while Somfy offers current RTS hardwired options. Electrical design should be decided with the motor and controls.
Use the power-type comparison to choose rechargeable, 240V or 12V.
Controls and smart-home integration
Compatible Automate ARC motors can use Automate handheld remotes, wall controls and sensors. The Pulse Pro Hub adds app control, scenes, schedules and supported voice integrations.
Somfy RTS motors use Somfy RTS controls. Somfy also offers Zigbee motors. TaHoma provides the relevant smart-home pathway for supported Somfy products.
Confirm the exact motor protocol and exact remote or hub. Automate ARC and Somfy RTS are different systems and do not normally share a native remote.
Read How to Control Roller Blind Motors for the complete controls decision.
Which brand is quieter?
Noise depends on the exact model, tube, blind load and installation. Both ranges include quiet residential options. A rubbing fabric edge, bent tube or misaligned bracket can make even a quiet motor sound noisy.
Which brand is easier for DIY?
The easier DIY option is the package where compatibility has already been solved. A confirmed tube match, correct crown and drive, suitable bracket, charger and programmed remote matter more than the logo.
Can Automate and Somfy be mixed in one home?
Yes, but native controls remain separate unless a wider automation platform integrates both systems through compatible interfaces. One brand's remote or hub should not be assumed to operate the other brand's motors.
A simple way to choose
Identify the tube and confirm which motors fit.
Calculate the torque needed for the load.
Choose rechargeable, 240V or 12V power.
List the controls and smart-home features you need.
Compare Automate and Somfy only among the compatible models that remain.
Our practical recommendation
Choose Automate when its current motor and ARC control range best fits the tube and project. Choose Somfy when an RTS or Zigbee motor and Somfy ecosystem is the better match. If both suit, existing controls, preferred hub, price and local support can make the final decision.
For the complete process, start with What Motor Do I Need for Roller Blinds? or browse the full motor range.
