Aura Frame vs. Skylight: A Detailed Comparison

Choosing between Aura Frame and Skylight in the digital photo frame market is no easy task. I tested both brands for over a month to gather real-life insights beyond what specifications alone can offer. These frames are not just for older generations. They help you enjoy your photos without scrolling through cluttered camera rolls. Here’s a thorough comparison of both.

Testing Aura and Skylight Frames

I evaluated the Aura Aspen and Skylight Frame 2 due to their similar size, price, and functionality. Both frames were in my home for about a month. I compared setup, interface, design, and picture quality. I also involved Lindsay Schneider and Caitlin Cusack, who tested the Skylight and Aura frames, respectively.

Our Experience with Aura and Skylight

Both frames are easy to use and enhanced our homes. Choosing the best depends on key differences. While I leaned toward the Aura frame, there are instances where Skylight might be more suitable.

Setup

Aura: Setting up the Aura Aspen was quick and took less than five minutes. You complete the setup via the Aura app, connecting the frame to Wi-Fi and uploading photos. You can set it up virtually if gifting or use a QR code from the packaging.

Skylight: The Skylight Frame 2’s setup is simple but slightly more involved. You need both the Skylight app and the frame’s touchscreen. Entering the Wi-Fi password on the frame is necessary, and the email sharing setup is mandatory.

Winner: Aura. Both frames are easy to set up, but Aura’s process has fewer steps.

Design

Aura: The Aura Aspen is sleek and blends well with home decor. It has touch bars for controlling photos and settings. Though the swipe control is sensitive, it is efficient once you adjust.

Skylight: The Skylight Frame 2 offers more style options and a touchscreen interface. While intuitive, the touchscreen invites fingerprints, and some settings are exclusive to the frame unless you subscribe to Skylight Plus.

Winner: Draw. While some prefer the Aspen’s subtle design, others like the Skylight’s touchscreen.

Ease of Use

Aura: Aurahas an app-centric approach. It’s simple to upload photos and adjust settings through the app. Inviting family to share photos is seamless.

Skylight: Skylight is also user-friendly but requires more steps. Functions split between the app and touchscreen. An optional Skylight Plus subscription offers more features but complicates simplicity.

Winner: Aura. It’s simpler due to an intuitive app that controls everything. Skylight offers more connectivity options, useful for Wi-Fi off areas.

Picture Quality

Aura: Photos on the Aura Aspen look realistic despite its 1600-by-1200 pixel resolution. The 4:3 aspect ratio fits smartphone photos without cropping.

Skylight: Skylight offers a higher resolution but crops photos due to its 16:9 aspect ratio. Brightness is adjustable but often too bright by default.

Winner: Aura. It has an advantage due to its aspect ratio matching most smartphone cameras.

Conclusion: Aura vs. Skylight

Overall, Aura Aspen feels more like a traditional frame. It’s simpler, which enhances its effectiveness. While Aura suits most users, Skylight’s ability to function offline could attract those in Wi-Fi dead zones.

For this comparison, I tested along with two NBC Select colleagues over a month. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates.