While Castle Windows offer the cheapest window replacements, our team recommends Renewal by Andersen for its quality, energy-efficient windows, which can save you more money over time. Window replacement is an expensive home improvement project, particularly when you need to replace several windows at once—with an average cost of around $6,745 for nine windows. With energy-efficient windows, you can recoup some costs back with utility bill savings.
We reviewed 15 of the top window companies to determine the most affordable, high-quality, and energy-efficient options. Our team also surveyed 1,000 homeowners who’ve bought windows within the last two years to gain additional insights into the brands we reviewed and current industry trends.
Renewal by Andersen
Save $375 off each window
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- Features proprietary window frame material that is stronger and more durable than vinyl
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on non-glass materials
- Provides full-service window replacement services
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t sell aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frame windows
- Provides fewer window styles than other brands
Window Styles Offered
Renewal by Andersen offers up to eight window styles, which you can customize to fit your home’s aesthetic. Here is the full list of window styles Renewal by Andersen offers:
- Specialty
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding
Key Takeaways
- The most budget-friendly window brand is Castle, which costs an average of $412 per window. However, our top-rated brand overall is Renewal by Andersen, which costs an average of $612 and offers a proprietary, extra-durable Fibrex window material.
- According to our 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners who’ve recently purchased windows nationwide, most paid an average of $6,745 for around nine windows.
- The least expensive window type is typically single-hung, basement hopper, awning, or sliding windows, and vinyl is the least expensive frame.
Top Affordable Window Replacement Companies
Here’s a quick overview of the top affordable window replacement companies based on our team’s extensive research, secret shopping, and homeowner survey insights. We rated companies based on cost and value, available services, customer support, reputation, and product performance.
- Renewal by Andersen: Best Installation
- Champion: Best Financing
- Castle: Best Warranty
- Window Nation: Best Discounts
Compare the Best Cheap Window Brands
The following table compares several key factors, such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, financing options, and warranty coverage, so you can quickly weigh your options. You can also see each company’s average cost per window, based on our team’s survey data.
Our Review of Top Affordable Brands
Our team used an in-depth window rating methodology to select the best affordable window brands. The companies we selected offer windows for competitive prices of less than $1,000 per window before installation, which is what our survey respondents reported spending on average.
Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen Overview
Although not the most affordable option on our list, Renewal by Andersen is our top pick because of its patented Fibrex material, professional in-house installation services, and energy-efficient features—which can save money on utility costs. Replacing old windows with Energy Star-qualified windows can save 7%–15% on your annual energy bills or an estimated $71–$501 per year, depending on your location and the window you’re replacing.
Renewal by Andersen backs its products with a white-glove, hassle-free process, starting with a consultation, custom manufacturing, in-house installation services, and a limited warranty. This experienced provider, which has been in the industry for 30 years, is the only company that offers a proprietary Fibrex material. A composite material with superior thermal insulating properties, Fibrex is stronger than vinyl, which is known for contracting or expanding during extreme temperatures and can bow or break. Plus, Fibrex is low-maintenance, doesn’t rot or decay, and helps you save money on energy bills.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sells patented Fibrex composite material, which is extra durable and offers energy efficiency benefits
- Offers start-to-finish services from a consult to custom manufacturing and in-house installation
- Prioritizes energy-efficient window options and overall window performance
Cons
- Offers a limited lifetime warranty, which excludes some components for the entirety of a window’s lifespan
- Customer reviews note issues with a long installation process
Window Types Offered
Renewal by Andersen offers common window styles, with the exception of single-hung and garden windows. Here’s a complete list of the window types Renewal by Andersen sells:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty
Cost and Financing
Our 2025 survey showed that Renewal by Andersen customers paid an average of $612 per window, which falls within the middle of the industry average range of $300–$900 per window. Customers reported paying $7,111 total for their window replacement projects and an average of $122 per hour for labor.
Renewal by Andersen provides comprehensive financing options, including deferred payments, low minimum monthly payments, no upfront fees, and lines of credit up to $55,000. During your free consultation, you can speak with your sales representative for details about financing options. The company can process applications within minutes over the phone or online.
Our Experience With Renewal by Andersen
You can schedule an in-home consultation with Renewal on its website or over the phone. Then, Renewal will send a consultant to examine your current windows and discuss available options. Our team likes that Renewal offers an online visualizer tool, so you can quickly picture what its windows will look like in your home in various window styles or colors.
Our team shadowed a Renewal by Andersen installation crew as they replaced five windows at a job site. While the installation was going on, we spoke with crew members and found that they typically install between eight and 10 standard-sized windows a day. The crew leader shared that they usually train technicians on the job so they’re immersed in effectively installing Renewal by Andersen windows.
Champion
Champion Overview
Champion made our list for its competitive pricing, financing options, and comprehensive window style options. While Champion only sells vinyl windows, the company offers more versatile and varied style options than most other providers. Champion’s vinyl windows are fade-resistant, providing a low-maintenance option for homeowners. The company also manufactures its products in-house and custom to fit your home after completing an in-person evaluation.
Although not the cheapest window brand on our list, Champion offers energy-efficiency options that can save you money over time. For example, it sells a wide variety of Energy Star-certified products with its argon-filled Comfort 365 glass. This enhanced insulation and low emissivity (low-E) glass coating can help decrease your carbon footprint and energy costs while keeping your family comfortable indoors. Champion’s windows block ultraviolet (UV) rays, reduce heat gain, and control glare with tinted glass options, giving you plenty of options for saving money on energy bills and preventing carpet and furniture from fading.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sells more window styles than most other brands with 11 options total
- Offers some of the best discounts and in-house financing options we’ve seen in the industry
- Has over 70 years of experience in the industry
Cons
- Only sells vinyl windows, which isn’t as durable as some frame materials
- Customer complaints mention issues with customer service, such as a failure to return calls or keep appointments
Window Types Offered
Champion is one of the only providers on our list offering glass block windows, ideal for parts of the home that require privacy or moisture resistance, such as your basement or bathroom. Here’s the complete list of window types Champion manufactures:
- Awning
- Basement hopper
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Garden
- Glass block
- Picture
- Shaped
- Sliding
Cost and Financing
Champion sells windows for an average price of $660 per unit based on our 2025 survey results. On average, homeowners reported paying $5,772 for their total home improvement project, approximately $1,000 less than the average cost across all 16 window brands in our survey.
Champion provides some of the best financing options in the industry, with 0% down payment and interest options and regular deals. During our secret shopping process, Champion offered a buy two windows, get two windows free deal, which can significantly lower costs. Champion also advertises no extra charges for product installation, creating an all-inclusive home improvement experience for homeowners.
Our Experience With Champion
What stands out about Champion is its extensive in-house installation services—included at no additional cost—and how the company manufactures all of its windows. Out of the 1,000 homeowners we surveyed, 94% said they were very satisfied or satisfied with the company’s workmanship and installation quality. This is important because proper window installation reduces the risk of air leaks, decreased energy efficiency, and security issues.
Many affordable window brands outsource window installation, so we like how Champion offers in-house installation while keeping prices competitive. In addition, many online reviews, notably on Trustpilot, say how the Champion installation team was professional, friendly, and happy to answer any questions.
Castle
Castle Overview
Castle Windows stands out for its impressive lifetime warranty. Unlike many providers in the industry, such as Champion or Castle offers a true lifetime warranty that includes product and labor coverage. Castle protects its windows against defects in material and workmanship for as long as the window remains in the opening where it was originally installed. This means your window is protected for its entire lifespan, whereas other companies may only provide 2–20 years of coverage on different parts. Plus, you can transfer the warranty to a new property owner as long as the window remains in its original opening.
Castle designs, engineers, tests, and manufacturers its windows in North American factories. However, it only manufactures vinyl windows and doesn’t offer single-hung or picture styles, which is a potential drawback if you’re looking for other frame materials or certain window styles.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has the lowest prices of the 16 window companies featured in our homeowner survey
- Offers a 24/7 customer support line for instant help, unlike other companies on our list
- Provides a true lifetime warranty that protects your window for the entirety of its lifespan
Cons
- Doesn’t sell picture windows, which our team has found rare in the industry
- Only sells vinyl windows, which offer less energy-efficiency, durability, and aesthetic benefits than some other materials
Window Types Offered
Castle offers most standard window types, except for single-hung and picture windows. The company’s full list of window offerings includes:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Garden
- Slider
Cost and Financing
Out of the providers on our list, we found Castle Windows has the cheapest average cost at $412 per window, based on our 2025 survey. This is about $140 cheaper than the average price we calculated across 16 window brands, making Castle an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
Similarly, Castle Windows has a lower-than-average total project cost of $6,131, about $600 less than average. Homeowners purchased the highest number of windows from Castle based on our survey, with nearly 12 units compared to the average of nine. On top of its affordable prices, Castle advertises no charges for installation labor, which can save you more money.
Castle Windows offers 100% financing with no down payment, accepts multiple credit cards, and works with local and regional banks to provide other financing options.
Our Experience With Castle Windows
Castle Windows has 24/7 customer support, including over-the-phone service, which can provide peace of mind if your windows fail on a weekend or after hours. During our secret shopping, we were required to provide a phone number and name to use Castle’s online chat, which subjected us to text messages from the company. However, we were pleased with the quick response from a live agent who answered our questions easily.
Online reviews commonly mention that Castle installers were quick, tidy, and professional, with experiences of installers going out of their way to vacuum and clean up after a project. However, some negative reviews report problems with pushy sales calls after requesting a quote.
Window Nation
Window Nation Overview
Window Nation is the only brand in our top five ranking that offers vinyl and wood window options. This gives customers greater flexibility when choosing between aesthetics, durability, energy efficiency, and more. Window Nation also offers many energy-efficient options, including double and triple-pane windows with a low-E coating and argon gas fill to maximize your home’s power bill savings. However, this brand offers slightly fewer window styles than other companies we’ve reviewed.
Plus, Window Nation’s in-house teams are led by a “Masters Certified Installer,” who begins the process with a walk-through of your home and an explanation of the project. After the installation, you will get taken on a final walk-through and the team will conduct a job site cleaning. Our team appreciates this detailed approach and that homeowners have plenty of opportunities to examine the company’s final work and ask follow-up questions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has a perfect BBB rating and above-average customer ratings
- Offers a 5% discount for senior citizens and many financing options
- Installs easy to clean windows with tilt-in sashes
Cons
- Doesn’t sell single-hung windows, a popular choice for homeowners on a budget
- Negative reviews report issues with quality and drawn-out installation processes
Window Types Offered
Window Nation doesn’t offer picture or single-hung windows as part of its selection, and generally has slightly fewer options than other providers we’ve reviewed. However, our 2025 survey found that over 64% of homeowners purchased double-hung and sliding windows, which this provider offers. Here’s a full list of the company’s window offerings:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Garden
- Sliding
- Specialty
- Vent
Cost and Financing
Window Nation partners with several consumer financial service companies and offers secure online credit applications. Within several minutes, you should receive an update on the status of your application, which may include an open credit line for future purchases. You can manage your account online and sign up for easy monthly payment options. The company requires minimum monthly payments unlike some other providers, that offer options for deferred payments.
When we requested a quote, we found that senior citizens can save 5% off on a window purchase. Also during our secret shopping, we were offered 50% off all window styles and 0% interest for five years.
Our Experience With Window Nation
The company’s free estimate form was straightforward and required less information than many brands, based on our experience. You only need to provide a name, email, phone number, and ZIP code to get started.
During our secret shopping, we noticed some issues with parts of Window Nation’s website were. For example, the menus in its frequently asked questions (FAQs) section wouldn’t drop down when we tried to see an answer. Also, while the company’s online chat features a live agent, you have to provide some personal information, such as your name and phone number, before the company will answer any questions.
How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?
Replacement window costs vary depending on the brand, window size, frame material, style, and other factors. Our 2025 windows survey found that homeowners paid an average of $554 per window, with the majority paying between $300 and $900 per window. On the higher end, some respondents reported paying over $1,000, or even $2,000–$2,500 per window, but this was rare.
Homeowners said they paid an average of $50–$200 per hour for window installation services in our survey. This is another factor to consider when budgeting for your replacement window costs.
One of the most significant factors impacting replacement window costs is the chosen type. The following table shows the average cost range of replacement window types according to our survey responses.
| Window Style | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Awning | $288 |
| Basement hopper | $252 |
| Bay | $1,131 |
| Bow | $1,299 |
| Casement | $344 |
| Double-hung | $357 |
| Egress | $473 |
| Garden | $565 |
| Glass block | $540 |
| Picture | $775 |
| Shape | $510 |
| Single-hung | $336 |
| Sliding | $339 |
| Specialty or custom | $825 |
| Transom | $430 |
What Factors Affect the Cost of Replacement Windows?
Multiple factors, such as the number of glass panes, window size, and brand, impact the cost of window replacement projects. Below, we break down the most common factors influencing the cost of replacement windows.
Cost by Brand
The window brand you select directly impacts how much you’ll pay for your replacement project. The cost of labor, quality of materials, and location affects how much a window brand charges per window. For example, the most expensive brand in our 2025 survey was Ply Gem Windows, with an average cost of $897 per window, but Castle Windows costs less than half that amount at $412 per window.
Cost by Frame Material
Frame material greatly influences the cost of replacement windows and the durability and energy efficiency of your new windows. Vinyl is the most affordable frame material, while options such as more durable options such as wood and fiberglass cost much more. Wood windows cost 30%–50% more per unit than vinyl windows because of the natural resources required for manufacturing.
Similarly, fiberglass windows typically cost about 30% more than vinyl windows due to their high-quality material. While fiberglass windows cost more, this material is often more durable than wood, offering an investment for homeowners interested in longevity. Our 2025 survey analysis showed that fiberglass windows cost an average of $651, while aluminum windows cost about $501 per window.
Cost by Glass Type
Companies customize window glass in several ways. For starters, you can choose between single, double, and triple-pane windows. Generally, the more panes a window has, the more energy-efficiency and security. Our survey found that an average single-pane window costs $450 compared to a triple-pane window, which costs $766. However, a double-pane or triple-pane window can improve your home’s insulation, saving you money in energy bills.
Another factor is special coatings, such as low-E glass. Low-E glass reflects UV light away from your home, reducing carpet and upholstery fading by up to 75%. According to our research, low-E glass is slightly more expensive than windows without this coating, averaging about $20–$30 more per window. However, low-E glass energy savings alone can offset this slightly higher cost, making it worthwhile for homeowners.
Number of Windows
Typically, the more windows you purchase, the more you’ll pay for your replacement project. However, some window brands offer discounts if you buy more than one window or windows in bulk, which you can weigh as potential savings when looking at window replacement prices.
Labor Costs
Many homeowners overlook the cost of window installation. Many of the providers we’ve reviewed don’t include the cost of installation in your window price—except Castle Windows. Typically, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for window installation based on our survey.
Cost by Style of Window
Single-hung and double-hung windows are some of the most common and cheapest windows available. Other styles, such as bow and bay windows, require multiple window panes or features that cost more to manufacture and install, increasing overall costs.
What Are the Cheapest Windows?
Vinyl windows are typically the cheapest window frame material, based on our research into retailer pricing. The composite Fibrex frame material by Renewal by Andersen is another option that offers value for the cost with more durability and energy-efficiency than vinyl windows.
Here’s a list of the cheapest window options we found on the market:
- Fibrex composite gliding windows by Renewal by Andersen
- Vinyl picture window, V-2500 Series by JELD-Wen
- Vinyl single-hung window, classic series by Ply Gem
How To Save on Window Installation
Window installation is typically expensive, even if you choose a more affordable brand. However, this investment is often worthwhile for your home’s safety, comfort, and energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run. Here’s how to save money on the initial cost of window installation:
- Buy multiple windows at once: Many window brands provide discounts when you replace multiple windows at once. If you split your project into multiple batches, you may see price increases, especially considering many manufacturers raise prices annually.
- Research cheap providers and deals: Look into what window brands usually offer less expensive pricing and available deals. Some providers have better sales or financing options than others, which can help you afford the windows you want without breaking the bank.
- Choose standard windows: Customization is expensive. Pick standard window sizes and colors where possible to save on costs. To save money, consider more affordable materials, such as vinyl or composites, rather than wood or fiberglass.
- Gather multiple quotes: We strongly recommend requesting quotes from several window brands to compare costs, window styles, and warranties. Ask a company about price matching if you receive a lower rate from another brand for the same project.
Is It Cheaper To Replace Your Own Windows?
While it’s cheaper to replace your own windows on paper, we don’t recommend a do-it-yourself (DIY) method for this project. According to our 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners who recently purchased windows, respondents paid an average of $100–$200 per hour for window installation services. However, some brands, such as Castle, include the cost of installation service in the overall window price, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.
However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, improper window installation can cost you far more than initial installation fees in the long run. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for an estimated 25%–30% of residential energy use, which can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in power bills a year. Our survey found that most respondents saved at least $10–$50 per month in energy costs after installing new windows, with some noting as much as $100 a month in savings. These savings can add up and cover installation fees over time, so opting for a professional installation is often cheaper in the long run to ensure proper window placement.
How To Choose a Reputable Window Installer
If you’ve never shopped for windows before, you may feel intimidated by the number of installers and options out there. Follow these steps to help you choose a reputable window installer:
- Check licenses and insurance: Before working with any service provider, we recommend vetting the company for the correct licenses from your state’s regulatory body. Also ask for proof of business insurance, which covers both the company and yourself if anything goes wrong during the installation.
- Meet with multiple window installers: Take time to schedule appointments with several installers and ask plenty of questions. Get a feel for professionalism and if the representatives communicate well.
- Read online reviews and ratings: Check each company’s BBB rating and accreditation status. Look for current alerts and read reviews to learn more about common complaints. Find out how long the company has been in business and its installation experience.
- Ask about warranties: Look for a comprehensive window warranty before signing with any provider. Get a copy of the warranty and read it carefully. Dishonest contractors don’t stand by their work, which can leave you fixing your windows if anything goes wrong during the installation.
FAQs About Cheap Window Replacement
What is the cheapest type of replacement window?
The cheapest type of replacement window is usually vinyl or aluminum, based on our 2025 survey of homeowners who’ve recently purchased windows. Single-hung, awning, and basement hoppers were the three cheapest types of windows reported by our survey respondents. Our data found Castle Windows were the least expensive window brands on average while still offering high-quality, Energy Star-certified products.
How can I tell if windows are cheap?
You can tell if windows are cheap by examining the overall performance and appearance. Low-quality windows can cause drafts and air leaks, which increase utility bills. They may also have condensation or fogging, which indicates seal failures. You may also notice visible damage, such as chipping, cracks, or warping. The windows may also feel challenging to operate, which could signal poor installation or cheap hardware.
What should I look for when shopping for new windows?
Look for windows with Energy Star and National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certifications, which indicates quality insulation and long-term energy savings. While price and style are important, it’s important you also consider the company’s reputation and warranty to ensure your investment is protected. Our team recommends window brands with both a labor and window parts warranty on glass and hardware. Ask the provider about the best energy efficiency features for your climate, as different gas fills and coatings work for different climates.
How can I find the best deal for replacement windows?
You can find the best deal on replacement windows by researching multiple providers, checking brand websites for discounts, and shopping around. Collect quotes from several providers and ask about price matching. Our team recommends researching local and federal tax incentives, such as Energy Star’s Windows Tax Credit, for additional savings.
Our Cheap Window Brand Rating Methodology
When researching the cheapest window brands, we primarily considered factors such as cost, window quality, and overall value. In addition, we looked at a company’s overall reputation in the industry, customer support, and window customization options. We weighed these factors to determine ratings for each company based on a 5-point scale. Learn more about what we looked at in our review of the most affordable window companies below.
- Value: When determining the most affordable window options, we considered both cost and quality for an overall value assessment. We considered windows priced between $300 and $900 for this review based on average costs in our 2025 survey of homeowners who have recently replaced their windows. We also considered financing programs and discounts for shoppers on a budget.
- Performance: This factor looked at window warranty coverage and overall energy efficiency. Companies offering lifetime warranties received the most points, and we awarded points for selling energy-efficient options. The more efficient a window is, the more utility bill savings homeowners can achieve over time.
- Reputation: Our team analyzed overall reputation based on BBB accreditation and rating statues, as well as customer reviews on the BBB and Trustpilot. We read reviews for each company on our list to learn more about customer experiences, and considered how long each provider has been in business.
- Selection: Companies with more window customization options earned the most points, including materials, styles, and personalization options. Vinyl is the most common material, but we awarded additional points to companies offering more than one option.
- Services: For this factor we primarily looked at in-house installation services, which can help homeowners save money by avoiding multiple contractors. Companies offering in-house installation with trained crews earned the most points.
- Support: Having various customer support options earned companies the most points for this factor. We looked at 24/7 availability, online chats and service forms, daily support hours, and online resources.
