Both Trimlight and Haven are premium permanent lighting systems. The main differences: Haven's app is newer and more polished with Game Day sports integration; Trimlight has been around longer with a larger dealer network. Hardware quality is comparable. Price is similar ($18–$40/ft installed for both). We install Haven — but here's the honest comparison.
Disclosure
We're a Haven Lighting dealer. We chose Haven after evaluating multiple systems, and we'll explain why below. But we also believe homeowners should make informed decisions, not pressured ones. So here's the genuine comparison, including areas where Trimlight has advantages.
The hardware
Channel design — Haven: Slim aluminum channel with a modern profile. Multiple color-match options. Designed to be minimal — thin profile that hugs the fascia. Trimlight: Patented channel design refined over multiple generations. Slightly wider profile in some models. Proven track record — Trimlight has been installed on homes since the late 2010s. Verdict: Both channels are aluminum, mechanically mounted, and weather-rated. Trimlight has more years of field testing. Haven's profile is slightly sleeker.
LED Nodes — Haven: RGBW nodes with individually addressable control. High brightness with accurate color reproduction. Dedicated warm white element produces natural 2700K glow. Trimlight: RGBW nodes, also individually addressable. Trimlight's nodes have been through multiple hardware generations with documented improvements. Verdict: Comparable. Both produce vibrant, accurate colors with warm white capability.
Sealing — Haven: IP67 rated on all components. Trimlight: IP65–IP67 depending on component and generation. Verdict: Both handle Midwest weather well.
The app — the biggest difference
Haven app: Modern, intuitive interface built from the ground up. Game Day integration — connects to live sports feeds, automatic team color changes. Calendar scheduling with holiday presets. Scene saving with unlimited custom scenes. Zone control. Family sharing. Cloud-based (works from anywhere).
Trimlight app: Functional but more utilitarian interface. Good color control and pattern creation. Timer and scheduling features. No live sports integration. Scene library with custom scene capability. Zone control on newer systems.
Verdict: Haven's app is the clear winner, especially the Game Day feature. Trimlight's app works fine but feels like an earlier generation of software. For homeowners who care about the app experience, Haven is the better choice.
See what permanent lighting looks like on your home
Free custom design. One firm price. No pressure.
Price and dealer network
Price — Haven: $18–$30/ft installed in the Omaha/Council Bluffs market. Trimlight: $22–$40/ft installed (dealer-dependent — Trimlight dealers set their own pricing). Verdict: Haven is generally less expensive per foot in our market.
Dealer network — Haven: Growing dealer network. Newer company, fewer dealers nationally but expanding rapidly. Trimlight: Established dealer network across the country. Verdict: Trimlight has the edge here. More dealers, more installs, more track record.
For a broader comparison of all brands, see our permanent Christmas lights brand comparison.
Why we chose Haven
After evaluating Trimlight, Gemstone, EverLights, and Haven, we chose to install Haven for three reasons: 1. The app. Haven's app is genuinely better. It's the most-used feature after installation, and we want our customers to enjoy using it every day. Game Day alone is a differentiator that makes people smile. 2. The value. Haven offers premium hardware at a lower price point than Trimlight in our market. 3. The company. Haven's team is responsive, innovative, and invested in helping dealers succeed.
That said — if a homeowner has a strong preference for Trimlight, both are excellent products and you won't go wrong with either one.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. They use different channels, controllers, and apps. Pick one system for your entire home.
No. Trimlight is an established, profitable company with a strong dealer network.
Switching requires removing the existing channel and installing a new one. It's possible but expensive — essentially a full reinstallation.
Yes — Haven offers industry-leading coverage on hardware and LED nodes. Ask your dealer for specific current warranty terms.
Written by Trey, Owner — Heartland Holiday Lights
Trey is a Council Bluffs local and hands-on installer who designs and installs every permanent smart-lighting system Heartland Holiday Lights puts on homes across Western Iowa and the Omaha metro. When he writes about rooflines, channel, and controllers, it's because he's on the roof doing the work.
See what permanent lighting looks like on your home
Free custom design. One firm price. No pressure.