Castle Windows offers some of the cheapest window replacements, based on our November 2025 survey of homeowners nationwide. However, we recommend Renewal by Andersen as our top overall choice. While Renewal by Andersen comes at a higher upfront cost, its high-quality, energy-efficient windows offer better long-term savings. Finding affordable windows involves more than choosing the lowest price. To get the best value, you need to weigh cost, quality, energy performance, and durability.
Our team reviewed 15 leading replacement window companies to find the most affordable options that also deliver strong performance and energy efficiency. Keep reading to see which cheap window replacement companies strike the right balance for long-term value.
Key Takeaways
- The most affordable window brand is Castle Windows, which costs an average of $456 per window. However, other top-rated brands like Renewal by Andersen can offer more long-term energy savings thanks to its extra-durable Fibrex material.
- According to our November 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners who’ve recently purchased windows nationwide, most paid an average of $6,353 for a six-window project.
- The least expensive window types are single-hung, transom, and picture windows. Aluminum is typically the least costly frame material.
Renewal by Andersen
Buy One Window or Door, Get One 40% Off
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
Top Affordable Window Replacement Companies
Here’s a quick overview of the top 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
Did You Know?
- Andersen Windows, the parent company of Renewal by Andersen, was the most popular window brand chosen by our 2025 window survey respondents to replace their windows.
Compare the Best Cheap Window Brands
The following table looks at important features like 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. We also gained firsthand experience by shadowing a Renewal by Andersen window installation and performing climate testing on a window from Champion Windows. The companies we selected offer windows for competitive prices of less than $1,000 per window before installation, which is what our November 2025 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 help reduce utility costs. Replacing old windows with Energy Star-qualified windows can save you 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 seamless, 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
- Offers start-to-finish services from consult to custom manufacturing and in-house installation
- Prioritizes energy-efficient window options and overall window performance
- Sells patented Fibrex composite material, which is extra durable and offers energy efficiency benefits
Cons
- Offers a limited lifetime warranty, which excludes some components for the entirety of a window’s lifespan
- Provides fewer window frame material options than other brands we’ve reviewed
Window Types Offered
Renewal by Andersen offers a variety of common window styles, with the exception of single-hung and garden windows. We found that survey respondents who purchased Renewal windows preferred sliding windows, with 28% of homeowners opting for this style. 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 revealed that Renewal by Andersen pricing falls within the middle of the industry average range of $232 to $740 per window. When it comes to total project costs, we found that Renewal is also in the middle range.
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 discuss financing options with your sales representative. The company can process applications within minutes over the phone or online.
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 we’ve reviewed. Champion’s vinyl windows are fade-resistant, providing a low-maintenance option for homeowners. The company also manufactures its products in-house and customizes windows 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 provides a wide variety of Energy Star-certified products, including 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.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Holds multiple industry awards and certifications
- Offers some of the best discounts and in-house financing options we’ve seen in the industry
- Sells more window styles than most other brands we’ve reviewed, with 11 options total
Cons
- Doesn’t sell single-hung window models
- Only sells vinyl windows, which isn’t as durable as some frame materials
Window Types Offered
Champion is one of the few providers on our list offering glass block windows, which are ideal for parts of the home that require privacy or moisture resistance, like your basement or bathroom. Nearly 27% of our survey respondents who purchased Champion windows purchased double-hung windows. 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 $474 per unit based on our November 2025 survey results. On average, homeowners reported paying $5,352 for their total home improvement project, approximately $1,000 less than the average cost across all 16 window brands included in our survey.
Champion offers some of the best financing options we’ve seen in the industry, including 0% down payment and interest options, as well as regular deals. During our secret shopping process, Champion offered a buy two windows, get two windows free deal, which can significantly lower project costs. Champion also advertises no extra charges for product installation, creating an all-inclusive home improvement experience for homeowners.
Castle
Castle Overview
As the most affordable brand on our list, Castle Windows stands out for its impressive lifetime warranty. Unlike many providers in the industry, Castle offers a true lifetime warranty that includes product and labor coverage. Castle protects its products against defects in material and workmanship for the life of the window. Other companies typically provide coverage of two to 20 years for different parts. Additionally, you can transfer the warranty to a new property owner, provided the window remains in its original opening.
Castle designs, engineers, tests, and manufactures 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 one of the lowest prices of the 16 window companies in our November 2025 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 single-hung or picture windows, unlike some competitors
- Only sells vinyl windows, which can limit design options
Window Types Offered
Castle offers most standard window types, except for single-hung and picture windows. Nearly 29% of our survey respondents who purchased Castle windows opted for bay windows. The company’s full list of window offerings includes:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Garden
- Slider
Cost and Financing
Among the providers on our list, Castle Windows has the most affordable window prices, with an average cost of $456 per window. This is slightly cheaper than the average price we calculated across 16 window brands, making Castle an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
However, our survey revealed that Castle Windows has a total project cost of $9,030, which is higher than the average of $6,353. We believe these high project costs are due to 44% of Castle respondents buying six windows or more for their homes.
In addition to its affordable prices, Castle offers no installation labor charges, which can save you even 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.
Window Nation
Window Nation Overview
Window Nation is another reputable window brand that offers budget-friendly windows paired with aesthetics, durability, energy efficiency, and other factors. Window Nation offers multiple energy-efficient options, including double and triple-pane windows with low-e coatings and argon gas fill. However, this brand provides slightly fewer window styles than other companies we’ve reviewed.
We spoke with a Window Nation representative to ask about their window replacement process. The representative said that after the installation crew completes a project, they will conduct a final walk-through with you and perform a job site cleanup. Our team appreciates this detailed approach, as homeowners have numerous opportunities to review the company’s final work and ask follow-up questions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has an easy-to-use free estimate form online to help homeowners budget
- Installs easy-to-clean windows with tilt-in sashes
- Offers a 5% discount for senior citizens and many financing options
Cons
- Has negative reviews reporting issues with window quality and drawn-out installation processes
- Only offers seven window styles, which is less than major competitors
Window Types Offered
Window Nation doesn’t offer picture or single-hung windows as part of its selection, and generally has fewer options than other providers we’ve reviewed. During our November 2025 survey analysis, we found that homeowners who purchased from Window Nation preferred double-hung and sliding windows over other styles. Here’s a full list of the company’s window offerings:
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Garden
- Sliding
- Specialty
Cost and Financing
Our survey respondents who bought Window Nation windows reported paying an average of $478 per window, which is slightly higher than the overall average cost of replacement windows nationwide. Window Nation partners with several consumer financial service companies and offers secure online credit applications. You can manage your account online and sign up for easy monthly payment options. The company requires minimum monthly payments, unlike other providers we’ve reviewed.
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
Below is a breakdown of our experiences with our top-rated window brands.
Renewal by Andersen
You can schedule an in-home consultation with Renewal through its website or by calling its phone number. Then, the company will send a consultant to examine your current windows and discuss available options. Our team likes that Renewal offers an online visualizer tool, allowing you to quickly picture what its windows will look like in your home with various window styles and colors.
Our team shadowed a Renewal by Andersen installation crew as they replaced five windows at a job site. While the installation was underway, we spoke with crew members and found that they typically install between eight and 10 standard-sized windows per 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
Our team tested a Champion window model to rate thermal performance. We used an infrared thermometer to measure the baseline temperature of a Champion window and an interior office window in our Raleigh, North Carolina, editorial space. Both windows registered around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. After heating a 100 watt (W) ceramic heat lamp to over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, we placed it behind each window for five minutes, allowing time for heat absorption before taking new readings.
The Champion window remained steady at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, while the office window rose to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This result indicates that the Champion window offers better resistance to heat transfer, suggesting improved climate control and potential energy savings for homeowners.
We also asked our survey respondents how much they saved per month on their energy bills after replacing their windows. The majority of respondents who installed Champion windows reported saving between $25 and $100 per month, which supports our findings of energy efficiency.
Castle Windows
Castle Windows offers 24/7 customer support, including over-the-phone service, which provides peace of mind in case your windows fail on a weekend or outside of business hours. During our secret shopping, we needed to provide a phone number and name to use Castle’s online chat, which resulted in us receiving text messages from the company. However, we were pleased with the quick response from a live agent who answered our questions quickly and thoroughly.
Online reviews commonly mention that Castle installers were quick, tidy, and professional, with some experiences noting that installers went out of their way to vacuum and clean up after a project. According to our survey analysis, 97% of respondents who installed Castle windows were either satisfied or very satisfied with the customer service provided by the company, confirming the overall satisfaction of online reviews.
Window Nation
The company’s online free estimate form was straightforward and required less information than many brands, based on our experience. To get started, you simply provide your name, email address, phone number, and ZIP code.
During our secret shopping, we noticed some issues with parts of Window Nation’s website. For example, the menus in its frequently asked questions (FAQs) section wouldn’t drop down when we tried to see an answer. Additionally, while the company’s online chat features a live agent, you must provide some personal information, including your name and phone number, before the company will respond to any questions.
We also got customer insights on Window Nation through our survey. Every respondent who installed Window Nation windows reported that their new windows made their home feel either somewhat or much more comfortable than before.
How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?
The cost of replacement windows can vary depending on the scope of your project. Our 2025 windows survey found that homeowners paid an average of $477 per window, with the majority paying between $232 and $740 per window. On the higher end, some respondents reported paying between $1,000 and $4,000 per window, but this was more rare.
The following table shows the average cost range of replacement windows by type, based on our 2025 survey.
| Window Style | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Architectural specialty | $631 |
| Awning | $514 |
| Basement hopper | $611 |
| Bay | $886 |
| Bow | $791 |
| Casement | $560 |
| Custom | $517 |
| Double-hung | $495 |
| Egress | $499 |
| Garden | $493 |
| Glass block | $518 |
| Hurricane | $470 |
| Picture | $419 |
| Shape | $438 |
| Single-hung | $397 |
| Sliding | $507 |
| Transom | $395 |
Our team also spoke with Mark Waddell, the installation and application manager at Cornerstone Building Brands, for some insights on replacement window costs. Replacement window costs depend largely on the size and location of the window in your home, according to Waddell.
“Upgraded features, such as colored frames, specific hardware finishes, different glass types, and opting for full-sized screens will also impact the final price,” he said.
Other factors that affect price include window style, material choice, and local labor rates.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Replacement Windows?
We break down the most common factors that affect the cost of replacement windows below.
Cost by Brand
The window brand you select directly impacts the cost of your window replacement project. For example, the most expensive brand in our November 2025 survey was Simonton Windows, with an average cost of $740 per window, but Castle Windows costs roughly 47% less, at $456 per window. The cost of labor and materials, as well as your location, can all impact the price a window brand charges.
Cost by Frame Material
The frame material significantly impacts the cost of replacement windows, as well as the durability and energy efficiency of your new windows. Vinyl is the most affordable frame material, while options such as wood and composite frames cost more. Wood windows cost more per unit because of the natural resources required for their manufacturing.
Our research showed that fiberglass windows run on the more expensive side, as this material is often more durable than wood, offering a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking longevity. Aluminum windows, on the other hand, offer budget-friendly options that can suit moderate climates well. However, this material is less efficient in harsher climates, as the metal doesn’t insulate as well from hot or cold temperatures as other frame materials.
Cost by Glass Type
Companies customize window glass in several ways. To begin, you can select from single, double, or triple-pane windows. Generally, the more panes a window has, the more energy-efficient and secure it is. Our survey found that an average single-pane window costs $442 compared to a triple-pane window, which costs $661. However, a double-pane or triple-pane window can improve your home’s insulation, saving you money in energy bills.
Another factor is the use of special coatings, such as low-e glass. Low-e glass reflects ultraviolet (UV) light away from your home, reducing fading of carpets and upholstery by up to 75%, according to the U.S Department of Energy (DOE). According to our survey results, low-E glass was the most popular upgrade our respondents added to their windows. 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 higher the cost of your replacement project overall. However, some window brands offer discounts when you buy more than one window or windows in bulk, which can lead to potential savings when evaluating window replacement prices.
Did You Know?
- Our November 2025 survey respondents bought an average of six replacement windows for their homes.
Labor Costs
Our research shows that labor costs typically range from $100 to $300 per window, depending on the window’s size, type, and installation complexity. Expect to pay more than $300 per window if your project features large, custom windows that require extra work to install correctly.
According to Crystal Olenbush, a realtor at AustinRealEstate.com, window replacement companies may offer discounts on labor if you purchase multiple windows. “Contractors appreciate the efficiency of tackling a larger project at once, and they’re often willing to pass those savings along to the client,” Olenbush said.
Note: The pricing information in this section was sourced using Angi.
Cost by Style of Window
Single-hung and double-hung windows are among the most common and affordable window types available. Other styles, like bow and bay windows, require multiple window panes or features that are more expensive to manufacture and install, thereby increasing overall costs.
Our survey showed that sliding windows were the most popular window style among homeowners. We dug deeper and found that 77% of respondents who bought sliding windows paid between $100 and $500 per window, making them an affordable and practical window type.
How To Save on Window Installation
Window installation is typically expensive, even when choosing 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.
“If cost is an issue, it is common to break a project up into phases,” Waddell said. “However, in the end, this could result in paying more than if the whole project were completed at once.”
Here’s how to save money on the initial cost of window installation:
Many window brands offer discounts when you replace multiple windows simultaneously. If you split your project into multiple batches, you may notice price increases, especially since many manufacturers raise their prices annually.
Research window brands that typically offer more affordable pricing and available deals. Some providers offer better sales or financing options than others, which can help you afford the windows you want without straining your budget.
Customization is expensive. Pick standard window sizes and colors where possible to minimize costs. To save money, consider more affordable materials, like vinyl or composites, rather than wood or fiberglass.
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. Some brands, like Castle, include the cost of installation service in the overall window price, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.
Not to mention, if you’re not experienced with this type of work, 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 consumption, which can result in hundreds or even thousands of dollars in annual power bills.
Our survey found that 67% of respondents saved between $25 and $100 per month in energy costs after installing new windows, with some noting savings of as much as $125 to $150 per month. These savings can add up and cover installation fees over time, making it often cheaper in the long run to opt for a professional installation and ensure proper window placement.
Survey Insights from Homeowners Nationwide
To better understand consumer buying decisions, we conducted a survey in November 2025 of 1,000 homeowners who had replaced their windows within the last five years. We aimed to uncover the primary reasons homeowners decided to install new windows, and measure their satisfaction with installation quality, customer service, and overall window performance. Here’s what we found:
- Motivation to replace old windows: Over 37% of our respondents said they replaced their windows because of cracked, damaged, or broken frames. The second most common reason for getting replacements was energy efficiency cost savings.
- Replacement timeframe: Nearly half of our respondents reported replacing their windows during the summer. Of those respondents, 48% named better weather conditions as the primary reason for their decision.
- Professional installation: Over 31% of respondents hired a professional window installer to ensure the correct placement of their new windows. Nearly 26% said it was safer to have a professional install their replacement windows.
- Payment method: Over 60% of respondents reported paying for their replacement windows with a credit card or by using financing.
FAQs About Cheap Window Replacement
What is the cheapest type of replacement window?
The cheapest type of replacement window is aluminum, based on our November 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners nationwide who’ve recently purchased windows. Of the 247 respondents who bought aluminum windows, they paid an average of $448 per window. Single-hung, transom, and picture windows were the three cheapest types of windows reported by our survey respondents, costing $397, $395, and $419 per window, respectively.
How can I tell if windows are cheap?
You can tell if a window is cheap by examining its overall performance and appearance. Low-quality windows can cause drafts and air leaks, resulting in higher utility bills. They may also have condensation or fogging, which indicates seal failures. You may also notice visible damage, like chipping, cracks, or warping. Cheap 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 indicate quality insulation and long-term energy savings. While price and style are important, it’s also important to consider a brand’s reputation and warranty to ensure your investment is protected. Our team recommends window brands that offer both labor and window parts warranties on glass and hardware. Ask window providers about the best energy efficiency features for your climate, as different gas fills and coatings work for various climates.
How can I find the best deal for replacement windows?
To find the best deal on replacement windows, research multiple providers, check for discounts, and compare prices. Collect quotes from several providers and ask about price-matching policies. Our team also recommends researching local and federal tax incentives, like Energy Star’s Windows Tax Credit, for additional savings.
How do I choose the best window installer?
Finding the best window installer in your area requires taking a few steps. First, verify that each window installer you’re considering holds the proper state licenses and provides proof of business insurance. Next, meet with multiple companies to compare window options and installation experience. Research BBB ratings, reviews, and years in business to ensure you’re hiring a reputable installer. Before signing a purchase order, request a copy of the provider’s window warranty and review the terms to ensure the company stands behind its work.
Our Cheap Window Brand Rating Methodology
When researching the cheapest window brands, we primarily considered cost, window quality, and overall value. Additionally, we evaluated a company’s overall reputation, customer support, and window customization options. We weighed these factors to determine ratings for each brand based on a 5-point scale. Learn more about what we examined in our review of the most affordable window companies below.
- Value: When determining the most affordable window options, we considered both cost and quality to assess overall value. We considered windows priced between $232 and $740 for this review, based on the average costs reported in our November 2025 survey. We also considered financing programs and discounts for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Performance: This category looked at window warranty coverage and overall energy efficiency. Companies offering lifetime warranties received the most points, and we awarded points for having energy-efficient options. The more efficient a window is, the more utility bill savings homeowners can achieve over time.
- Reputation: Our team determined 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.
