Best One-way & Frosted Window Film for Privacy

Buildings made of glass are the new thing. If you look at modern buildings and automobiles, you will see windows made of glass. One of the natural characteristics of these window glasses is that they are see-through.

So what if you want to add a layer of privacy? What if you need to limit the amount of light passing through the window? Although you can use blinds or curtains at home to block light, it is not always the best solution and not the cheapest. Also, you cannot install blinds or curtains in automobiles.

Summary

When we tested them out, we found that the best one-way window film for privacy was Bloss. Here are our category winners:

  • Best overall one-way window film for privacy day & night: Bloss
  • Best reflective window film: VELIMAX Static Cling Total Blackout
  • Best opaque window film: VELIMAX White Blackout

Continue reading

An easy solution to these problems is to use a window film. You may not know what it is, but you have often seen it in windows. It is a film-like layer that adds a tint or privacy. In terms of privacy options, there are several types available in the market. They include products that provide day and night and one-way privacy.

If you would like to learn more, we will be discussing more in the next sections. Without further ado, let’s dive into the best window films for day and night privacy.

window film being installed

Why you can trust us & how we picked

We tested all the window film products listed on this page and tried judging them on the basis of the same criteria, which is why you can trust us. We also picked window film with different features and designs to ensure there was something for everybody.

Best Window Film For Privacy

Types

Like other things, they come in several types. They differ in terms of look and functionality. You can let your creative side do the talking by adding patterns and colors to the product. You can also go for the simple, minimalist way that provides the right amount of protection and privacy from harmful UV rays. Below are some of the options available for you.

looking through a window
Types
BlackoutWhiteoutOne-Way
TranslucentSolarDecorative

One-Way Window Film For Day & Night

The one-way window film for day and night is an option that provides privacy protection during the day only. When looking into a one-way mirror from the outside during the day, you will only see a reflection of yourself. However, you can’t see it from the outside.

window film

It is a different thing at night. When the lights inside the room are brighter than those outside the room, you can see right through it. You can opt to install blinds or curtains, which you can close at night to provide you privacy.

Business owners and commercial spaces sometimes prefer not to add blinds or curtains with their one-way mirrors. The reason behind it is security. Intruders who try to break in at night can easily be seen outside.

Pros

  • It’s a great way to keep people from looking in.

Cons

  • It’s perhaps too dark for some.

Whiteout & Frosted

A whiteout film is similar to a blackout product regarding privacy and opacity. It comes in white inside and outside. The primary difference between the two is the application.

We use them to create separation in interior spaces, whereas blackout ones are primarily applied in windows. Most people apply whiteout in bathrooms and meeting rooms.

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Pros

  • If you’re like me, you’ll prefer something that doesn’t make everything black – this works better.

Cons

  • It’s important to know you won’t be able to look out if you install this.
Sale
VELIMAX Whiteout
It'll help keep light out.
NameWhiteout Window Film
Country of OriginChina
Item Weight13.7 ounces
ManufacturerVELIMAX

Blackout

A blackout film prevents all the light from passing through it from the name itself. It provides two-way privacy from both the outside and the inside. From the inside, it appears completely black.

From the outside, it gives a somehow reflective appearance. Since it reflects light from the outside, it also serves as a heat control.

It is best for people who work at night and sleep during the day. It is also popular with people whose rooms face a well-lit street. The downside with this type is that you cannot see through it no matter what you do. So if that is not an issue, then go ahead and give the blackout option a try. It provides 24-hours privacy, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

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Pros

  • It’s good there’s no glue, as it would be a pain to remove.
  • It was fairly easy to install.

Cons

  • It gets really dark when you install it.
Sale
Total Blackout
It's great when you want it dark.
NameBlackout Window Film
ASINB073TVRQ5D
Country of OriginChina
Item Weight10.4 ounces
ManufacturerVELIMAX
window blinds

Translucent

The translucent option sits in between privacy and light. It allows a bit of light to pass through it while still providing a level of privacy. When looking through a translucent film from the outside, you’ll see the effect of blurred images. Aside from a plain one, it is available in other shapes and colors. You can apply a translucent product to any exterior or interior glass.

Pros

  • This product was great for still letting in some light while ensuring our privacy.

Cons

  • You’re not able to look out if you want to do that.

Solar

The purpose of a solar window product is to prevent ultraviolet rays from passing through. It blocks UV rays from entering the environment. In return, your skin is protected from any harm brought by exposure to UV rays.

Most glass windows can block about 40% of UV rays. However, certain types can block up to 99.9% of these UV rays. It makes them an effective solution. As a result, it regulates indoor temperatures. Rooms become warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

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Pros

  • After installing this film, we could feel that it was colder in the house.
  • It’s great to ensure snoopy neighbors aren’t looking in.

Cons

  • You might still see distractions outside.
  • The installation instructions could use some improvement.
UV Window Film
2,813 Reviews
UV Window Film
It'll keep your cooling bill down.

Decorative

beautiful colored windows

Not all windows are boring. If you want to spice things up, you can go for a decorative one. Having one adds vibrance to your window. It works as art glass by scattering the light as it passes through the glass. There is a wide selection of decorative patterns and designs. Find different styles you can use to customize your room.

Most decorative ones are translucent, but they still reduce glare and provide a layer of UV protection. You can opt for a reusable one if you think you will be moving it to a different window soon. Decorative ones can also minimize static cling when light objects stick with other objects.

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Pros

  • It is very decorative.
  • It was easy to apply and keep snoopy neighbors out.

Cons

  • You won’t be able to look out.
Sale
Decorative window film
52,121 Reviews
Decorative window film
It's very pretty.

What are they?

In the simplest terms, a window film is a thin layer made of laminate. It attaches to the exterior or interior of a glass surface. These surfaces include but are not limited to buildings and homes. They’re also used for automobiles and boats. You’ll even find them on airplanes.

Most options are self-adhesive, so you do not have to worry about attaching them. Simply peel and stick it to wherever you want to attach it, and you are good to go.

It is important to know not all options are UV-blocking. Some are for decorative purposes only, while others serve as a complete window covering. A blackout window film completely blacks out the light. It promotes better sleep than ever in a cooler, darker room.

So you might be thinking about how it can do all sorts of things and drastically improve your living situation. A material called polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is what makes it possible. PET is a polymer resin that is part of the polyester family. The material’s tensile strength and dimensional stability make it extremely versatile. It has the ability to stick to different types of surfaces while doing its job.

grass in the background of a window

Classifying Them

We classify them into the following categories.

Construction Components

  • Ceramic
  • Dyed
  • Metalized
  • Nano
  • Pigmented

Application

  • Architectural (Buildings, Homes, etc.)
  • Automotive
  • Marine

Substrate Type

  • Glass
  • Polycarbonate

Technical Performance

  • Safety
  • Solar Control
  • Security

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Factors to consider

window
window

You need to consider a few things when choosing the best window film for privacy. When picking it, you need to know what is important to you regarding UV blocking and decorations. Familiarize yourself with factors such as the amount of darkness you want and privacy. These factors to consider when buying window film for privacy greatly affect functionality, so choose carefully.

What to consider
AestheticsMaterialUV Protection
Level of PrivacyFade Resistance

Aesthetics

Some people like to add them for decorative purposes, which is the main reason for decorative ones. It adds a splash of elegance and style to the interior and exterior of the building. If you need to renovate old windows but are on a limited budget, adding decorative products may be the solution.

The wide array of colors and patterns can complement the mood and overall design of the interior. In the case of a dull interior, decorative versions can bump up the overall vibe. If colors and patterns are not your things, plain ones are available.

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Material

Generally, window films use polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as base material. In most cases, the difference is in the application type. The number of PET layers one uses affects the results. Polyester is durable. So it will hold up well in different moisture levels, cleaner solvents, and temperatures.

Although most options use PET, some manufacturers use polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The downside with this material is it poses health risks over time. This material contains chemical additives, which are especially harmful to children.

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Level of Privacy

They vary in the level of privacy they can provide. Whiteout ones and blackout products provide near 100% privacy. Translucent ones only obscure whatever is behind the window. Some decorative products provide some level of it, whereas others do not provide any. The first thing you need to figure out is how much of it you need. Once you have this figured out, you can pick the right one for you.

Fade Resistance

Ever wondered why some items near your window have faded? UV rays cause floors and furniture to fade. Films will not stop your appliances from fading, but it helps in slowing down.

UV Protection

Direct exposure to sunlight for a long period is dangerous to your health. This treatment blocks up to 99% of UV rays from passing through the window. When shopping for these products, make sure you check for their UV protection. Some manufacturers do not add UV protection to their products.

If you think about it, limiting heat can help keep your utility bills at a minimum. They can partially or fully block the sun’s heat from going in, which regulates the temperature inside the room. Cooler interior temperatures prevent the air conditioner from running for longer periods.

How much does the window film cost?

When we tested various window film products, we found that they cost between $7 and $20 per window. You will typically pay $0.8 to $2 per square foot of window film.

Installing it

Most of them use easy-to-remove self-adhesives or glue. Depending on the manufacturer, there may be differences in installing it. However, these are the general guidelines that you should keep in mind.

There are only some guidelines you need to consider when installing it. Before proceeding with the installation, always consult the instructions manual from the manufacturer. After applying the product, it is advisable not to clean for at least one month.

FAQ

Do window films provide privacy?

These products are usually easy to install. Depending on the brand and model you purchase, some are removable without leaving any marks. But the real question is, do they provide privacy? The short answer is yes. They do provide it but only to a certain extent.

Does window film work at night?

Yes, privacy-films work at night. You can go for a day-and-night privacy product, which can either be a blackout one or a whiteout one.

What is the best window film for privacy?

The best one for privacy is the blackout option or whiteout option. It provides 100% privacy during the day and night.
If you only need it to provide privacy during the day, then the one-way mirror material would be an excellent choice for you.

Is there a window film you can see out but not inside?

Yes, there is! A one-way mirror film lets you see the outside when you are inside the room. However, people from the outside will not see what is inside the room. One thing to consider is that it only works during the day. At night, it becomes close to see-through.

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window film being applied

Day and Night

Day and night privacy 0nes provide privacy 100% of the day. A great example of providing day and night privacy is the blackout and whiteout options.

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One-Way

One-way privacy products provide privacy on one side and clarity on the other side. Normally, those inside a room get a clear view of what is outside. Those on the outside won’t see what is inside. You can see out, not inside.