How it works

There are four major components to the voice-controlled smart mirror. The attached highly technical drawing illustrates how these components work together.

1. The two-way mirror

The two-way mirror is made of acrylic and sits flush over the monitor, allowing the graphics on the monitor to shine through while maintaining a mirror effect. I ordered my mirror through Tap Plastics (this one). Order the thicker mirror option (3/16") to prevent a "funhouse mirror" effect.

2. The monitor

I recommend an LED monitor for minimal power consumption, maximum crispness, and to prevent mirror glow at night. I also recommend a monitor with built-in speakers, but this is optional.

3. The Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is a small, credit card-sized computer that powers the whole thing, displaying the Magic Mirror interface and running Jasper, the voice-control system.

4. The box/frame

The box/frame houses all the components, including the microphone, and looks pretty.

Total cost

The total cost for this project (including the wood, monitor, Raspberry Pi, and mirror) was around $300-350.

The mirror in action