The Best Retractable Awnings, 2025 Reviews

As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to think about adding shade to your outdoor space. Retractable awnings provide shade effortlessly, without the need for permits, contractors, or major renovations. Whether you want to reduce the sun’s heat and glare or shield against sudden rain, the fabric of your awning is crucial. No matter where you live, we recommend an awning with excellent UV, water, and fade resistance.

With all that in mind, we researched dozens of options, evaluating their durability, overall value, ease of installation, and protection to find the best retractable awning for your space, needs, and budget.

Best Manual

The 12' x 10' Veikous retractable awning stands out for its price and sales. The fabric is PU-coated polyester. Waterproof, fade-resistant, 30+ UV protection. The frame is lightweight powder-coated aluminum.

Despite its lightweight design, it can withstand winds of up to 30 mph (Force 5). Veikous awnings come in two classic colors, beige and gray. Four sizes for you to install on windows, front doors, and patios. The left-side crank allows you to extend or retract the awning easily. Before choosing, you need to consider the height of the awning. Please install it at least 8.2 feet from the ground.

All hardware is included, and I probably spent less than an hour to complete it according to Veikous' installation video.

Price: $179.99 | Size: 13 x 8 ft, 8 x 7 ft, 10 x 8 ft, or 12 x 10 ft | Fabric: Polyester | Frame Material: Aluminum | Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Most Affordable

Although compared to other awnings, this sunshade sail is not waterproof, and you have to put it away to get protection in rainy and snowy weather. But the price is affordable and impeccable. It uses 316-grade stainless steel D-rings and the tarp is UPF 50 rated for UV protection. Installation is very simple, just tie or hang it on the wall, roof, tree, pole. So you can have almost any play area, above-ground pool or outdoor kitchen, etc.

It comes in 8 colors and 17 sizes, so you have a lot of options to find the fabric that fits your space. The awning allows water to penetrate instead of accumulating on the surface, so it is best for calm, sunny days.

Price: From $37.5 | Size: 10 x 13 feet | Fabric: High-density polyethylene | Frame material: Stainless steel | Mounting type: Any bracket

Best Electric

If you don't want to open and close the awning manually every time and look forward to more flexibility, then consider an electric awning. Sunsetter's electric awning is a good choice, it includes all mounting hardware, a reliable motor and a pre-paired remote control. Just press a button and your patio will instantly get shade and wind protection. It can withstand 55-75 mph gusts. Wireless wind sensors automatically close the awning on windy days.

The 18-foot power cord allows you to connect to your home's power source without an extension cord. The woven acrylic fabric provides 99% UVA and UVB protection. It's solution-dyed, which means the color permeates throughout the fabric, so its rich colors stay beautiful for years. It also comes with a 5-year warranty. As the largest awning manufacturer in the United States, we don't have to worry about the quality of Sunsetter, but it's on the high side. Consider whether it's worth it for you.

Price: $2,200 – 4,500 | Size: Available in a variety of sizes and patterns, and can be customized. | Fabric: Woven acrylic fabric | Frame material: Steel and aluminum | Mounting type: Wall-mounted

Best Sun Protection

There is a wraparound awning, which is usually smaller and is used in places such as doors and windows. But Kreiders also makes large models. For places such as porches, shops, etc. Surrounded on three sides, it provides a cool and dry outdoor living area on a large patio. Reduce the indoor temperature by 25% in the summer to save money.

The galvanized frame is powder coated and the fabric is Sunbrella fabric. In addition, the screen vents are towards the rear of the wing area, which allows any heat trapped under the awning to escape. The downside is that it’s bracket-mounted and cannot be retracted easily. In the sun, rain and snow, the damage will increase. Of course, you can remove it in the fall and re-hang it in the spring.

Price: Varies greatly with size | Size: Customizable | Fabric: Sunbrella | Frame Material: Galvanized Frame | Installation Type: Vertical/Wall-mounted

Best for Rainy Days

General awning produces a variety of aluminum and polycarbonate awnings. Although they are not super large, they can provide protection from wind, sun, rain, snow and harmful UV rays all year round. It allows you to enjoy the rain without getting wet and provides shade and sun protection.

Each awning is equipped with efficient gutters to ensure that rainwater flows away smoothly. At the same time, its retro and elegant design is not only practical but also adds a touch of art. General Awnings understands the unique needs of each customer, so it provides customization services to ensure that each awning can be perfectly integrated into your living space. Even if the 20-inch size is not available, you can still splice the awning.

Compared with fabric awnings, General Awnings' products are more durable and easy to maintain, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Prices range from $150 to $2500. It's up to you.

Price: $150~$2500 | Size: Customizable. | Fabric: Aluminum/Polycarbonate | Frame Material: Aluminum | Installation Type: Wall-mounted

Installation

Installing a retractable awning is simple and doesn’t require special skills, but always follow the instructions to prevent damage. Check if wall anchors or additional supports are needed for secure installation.

Sunsetter, Kreiders, and General Awnings all offer installation services at an additional cost. If you plan to install it yourself, look for fully assembled, simple awnings, such as Veikous patio awnings. Whether you prioritize convenience, affordability, or durability, there’s an awning for every need and budget. With summer approaching, now is the time to enhance your outdoor space. Choose from our top picks and transform your patio into a cool, comfortable retreat. Share your experience with us—we’d love to hear your awning story!