Windows are an important part of any home. They let in natural light and fresh air and can help to reduce energy costs. When it comes time to replace your windows, it is important to choose the right brand.
Many different window brands are on the market, but not all are created equal. Some brands are better than others, and some are worse.
In this blog post, we will compare the worst and best window brands on the market. We will discuss the pros and cons of each brand so that you can make an informed decision when choosing a new set of windows for your home!
1. The Best Window Brands of 2025
1.1 Andersen Windows
- Average selling price: $500–$2,000
- Rating: 4.3 / 5.0
- Customer Review: Great quality windows and doors. Awesome installation crew. Top-of-the-line salesman. Would and do recommend Renewal by Andersen. Very satisfied customer here.” — Carol H., August 2023, on BBB
1.2 Jeld-Wen Windows
- Average selling price: $350-$2000
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Customer Review: Several customers purchased their first replacement windows from Jeld-Wen and used the company again for other upgrades. Reviewers highlighted the windows’ quality and their improved energy savings.
1.3 Marvin Windows
- Average selling price: $250–$1,000
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Customer Review: “The Marvin Ultimate Aluminum Clad Windows are high quality. I’ve purchased four such windows over the years. I buy them one at a time to replace old windows on my home.” — T.W., June 24, 2020, on BBB
1.4 Milgard Windows
- Average selling price: $300–$600
- Rating:4.5/5
- Customer Review: “We know the Milgard brand and decided it was a good choice for us. The windows are fantastic! We face East and West, so get a lot of sun and heat! These windows do cut the amount of heat coming in, which is a big help with the intense heat we have been having”- Memory Customer
1.5 Alside Windows
- Average selling price: $550-$2000
- Rating:3.5/5
- Customer Review: Positive customer reviews often highlighted the easy installation, the quality of the windows, and their happiness with the overall service and experience.
1.6 Cascade Windows
- Average selling price: $500- $2000
- Rating: 4/5
- Customer Review: “Bought Cascade windows through Lowes. I was initially skeptical because I had not heard of this brand before. I selected what I thought looked brownish, the rep told me it was olive. It turns out I love it more than I thought would.”- Nattie M
1.7 Certainteed
- Average selling price: $350-$2600
- Rating:3.8/5
- Customer Review: “The installation went great and was done by a local contractor with lots of experience with these exact windows. He was precise and neat and didn’t cut corners with the installation. He trimmed and primed all the interiors and did all the caulking and touch-ups very well…..”- Steve – Homeowner – from New Jersey in 2010
1.8 Pella
- Average selling price: $400–$2,000
- Rating:4/5
- Customer Review: “We purchased 18 Pella 250 series windows. They are made with very good glass and are big and bright. We know that Pella is a good brand, and they live up to their reputation. The frames are well made, and they are well insulated.” —Lisa H. via Best Company
1.9 Weather Shield
- Average selling price: $550-$1500
- Rating: 4/5
- Customer Review: Weather Shield shines thanks to its affordable price points and low-maintenance extruded aluminum-clad wood windows.
1.10 Kolbe Windows and Doors
- Average selling price: $550-$1000
- Rating: 3.8/5.0
- Customer Review: “We installed Kolbe Ultra French By-pass doors and casement. Also a patio door replacement for the front door. We love the look!–we sprung for Vertical grain fir on the inside….. We are just super satisfied!”- Stu and Carolyn Rockafellow
1.11 Woodgrain Millwork
- Average selling price: $400-800
- Rating:3.7/5
- Customer Review: Woodgrain Doors can be configured in a huge variety of designs and glass options, meaning every homeowner’s Woodgrain door can be a unique reflection of his or her personality
1.12 PGT Custom Windows & Doors
- Average selling price: $700-$1300
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Customer Review: Customers were pleased with the windows’ quality and had positive experiences with their local dealers. Some customers noted that the impact-resistant windows provided solid protection during hurricane conditions
1.13 Loewen Windows
- Average selling price: $850-$1.199
- Rating:3.7/5
- Customer Review: Loewen offers specialized luxury window materials, artisan and custom designs, and a long-held history as a reputable window provider.
1.14 New South Window Solutions
- Average selling price: $8000 – $12,000
- Rating:4.6/5
- Customer Review: “I’d recommend NewSouth Window highly and I’ve always done that. I went with them because of their pricing and reviews online. I bought impact windows and doors and it’s the best…”- Palm City, FL
1.15 Earthwise Group LLC
- Average selling price: $500-$1500
- Rating:4.5/5
- Customer Review: “We saw lower energy bills and a reduction in outside noise right away. We’re very happy with our Earthwise windows!” – Mark R.
1.16 Harvey Windows
- Average selling price: $500-$1350
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Customer Review: Most customers praised the company’s quality products and excellent customer service.
1.17 Okna Windows
- Average selling price: $750-$900
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Customer Review: “Great window manufacturer who stands behind their product. Replaced 30+ windows in the entire house and a patio door 8 years ago….”– Mike M., Illinois
1.18 Ply Gem Windows
- Average selling price: $350-$1500
- Rating: 4/5
- Customer Review: “Best vinyl windows made and a great warranty.” —Steve Watt
1.19 Polaris Windows
- Average selling price: $550-$950
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Customer Review: “I love my Polaris windows. It is better than Andersen windows were leaky 25-year-old window casements. I want my whole house to have Polaris windows. Maybe this summer.” Roxanne M Hardy
Polaris Windows & Doors Inc. are known for their high-quality products
1.20 Simonton Windows
- Average selling price: $200–$1500
- Rating: 3.4/5
- Customer Review: Customers complimented the energy efficiency of the windows, claiming their energy bills were reduced once they were in place.
Simonton Windows is backed by a lifetime limited warranty
2. How can you recognize a window brand that may not be good?
The best way to identify a bad window brand is to research online. There are many websites and forums where people post their experiences with different brands of windows. Another way to identify a bad window brand is to ask around.
Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about their experiences with different brands of windows. Finally, you can consult with a window professional to get their opinion on different brands of windows.
There are a few telltale signs that can help you identify a bad window brand. Here are some of the most common ones:
- The windows are made with low-quality materials.
- The windows are not Energy Star certified.
- The company needs a better reputation.
- The warranty could be better.
- The windows are difficult to install.
A telltale sign identifies a bad window brand is not Energy Star certified
4. Worst window brands to avoid
There are several window brands that you should avoid because they are known for being low quality and unreliable. Some of the worst window brands to avoid include:
4.1. Amcraft
Amcraft windows are often installed in homes that have low-quality construction
Related: Detailed Review of Amcraft Windows
4.2. American Craftsman
American Craftsman has been known to be unresponsive to warranty claims
Related: American Craftsman Windows: Quality and Design Issues
4.3. MI windows
MI windows are also quite expensive compared to other brands
Learn more: MI Windows Reviews
4.4. Atrium
The Atrium is known for its low-quality windows
Read more: Atrium Windows Reviews
4.5. Crestline
Crestline windows are poorly made and have terrible customer service
4.6. Lincoln
Lincoln windows are expensive and they do not last long
4.7. Woodbridge
Woodbridge windows leaking lead to mold and mildew problems
Read more Woodbridge windows reviews
4.8. Window World
Window World has a terrible reputation for customer service
5. How to Choose the Best Window Replacement Brands
Window Options
Not all window replacement companies are the same. Each company offers a specific range of window types and styles. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the type of window you desire and ensure its compatibility with your home when deciding on the most suitable company.
Some companies exclusively sell and install windows, while others manufacture the windows they sell and install.
Repair or Replacement
In certain instances, it may be feasible to repair specific issues with existing windows rather than opting for a complete replacement. Some companies extend repair services alongside full installations. Thus, it is advisable to have your windows inspected by a repair technician before committing to a new window entirely.
However, there are cases where repairs are not viable, and a replacement becomes necessary. A reputable and knowledgeable company should be able to assess the situation and recommend the most suitable course of action.
Have your windows inspected by a repair technician before buying a new window
Established Reputation
When choosing a company for home improvement, assessing its reputation for quality, customer service, and affordability is paramount. Reading customer reviews is an effective way to gauge a company’s standing.
The Better Business Bureau website provides review ratings and insights into how companies handle customer complaints, with an A+ BBB grade signifying a high level of responsiveness and issue resolution.
Customer Service
Effective customer service with the window company is crucial. Understanding the company’s preferred communication methods, such as email, phone, text, or chat, is important. Consider your communication preferences and select a company that aligns with them. Some companies even offer 24-hour telephone hotlines and live chat options for added convenience.
Effective customer service is crucial
Cost and Financing Options
Window replacement costs can vary significantly, ranging from $200 to $1,200 per window. To ensure affordability, inquire about costs with your chosen company and explore any available deals or promotions.
Some companies provide financing options with lower interest rates or deferred interest for a specified period. While caution is advised with deferred financing, other promotions, such as seasonal rebates or early booking discounts, may be worthwhile for customers seeking cost-effective solutions.
6. How do we choose the best window brands
Windows Sizes
In general, window prices escalate with size. When evaluating costs from different providers, consider size-dependent pricing in your decision-making process. It’s crucial to ensure that replacement windows match the specific spaces in your home, so selecting a company that provides or can customize the necessary window size and type is essential.
Choose the suitable window size for your home
Window Materials
A variety of materials, including vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass, composites, and specialized compounds, are accessible for replacement windows. Options for materials similar to your existing windows or seize the opportunity to transition to a more efficient or aesthetically pleasing material and design.
While vinyl is the most prevalent, aluminum replacement windows are not as popular due to their lower energy efficiency compared to vinyl, which is both cost-effective and efficient.
Fiberglass and composites, though somewhat more expensive, provide excellent color options and durability. Wood replacement windows offer an authentic appearance and can complement almost any home style.
Warranty Coverage
Considering that windows stay in your home for many years, the warranty ought to meet your satisfaction. Warranties differ in duration, covering aspects such as a window’s expected lifespan, parts, glass, seals, defects, and labor. Few warranties cover all these components for the same duration. If you plan to sell your home before the warranty expires, a transferable option can be a valuable selling point.
The warranty should meet your satisfaction
Color Options
Mismatched window colors can appear out of place in a home, especially when trying to match an older or distinctive style. Some replacement window manufacturers offer an extensive range of color choices, while others provide a selection of neutral colors designed to complement various home styles. Choose a window company that can accommodate the color options that suit your home best.
Energy Efficiency
Enhancing energy efficiency is a key reason for upgrading home windows. Look for features such as low U-factors, air leakage ratings, a low solar heat gain coefficient, condensation resistance, and light or visible transmittance. Balancing high efficiency with your budget is essential, as window prices typically increase with higher efficiency ratings.
Expert Advice
When selecting a window brand for your home, homeowners should consider factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and warranty. Pella and Andersen are two reputable brands that stand out in these areas. Pella is known for its robust product line and excellent customer service, while Andersen is renowned for its energy-efficient windows and extensive warranty.
In a nutshell, “For long-lasting reliability, Pella and Andersen windows offer superior durability and energy efficiency. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their excellent service and comprehensive warranties.”
FAQs – Frequently Asking Questions
What kind of window lasts the longest?
Vinyl windows exhibit exceptional durability, capable of withstanding diverse climates, rendering them among the most enduring window options available. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that, with appropriate care and maintenance, the majority of windows can endure for a span of 15 to 30 years.
Vinyl windows are more durable than others
How much does it cost to install Windows?
Typically, the cost of window installation hovers around $600 per window, specifically for a mid-range double-hung window. However, this cost can vary widely, ranging from $200 to $1,200 per window. When factoring in labor expenses, you can anticipate spending anywhere from $100 to $300 per window, or approximately $40 if hiring a window installation contractor.
How do replacement windows differ from new windows?
Windows designed for new installations are crafted for openings in homes where no trim or siding is yet in place. These new windows typically feature nailing, attachment fins, or flanges on their exterior. In contrast, replacement windows are specifically designed for existing window spaces, providing a tailored fit to replace the original windows without requiring extensive modifications.
New windows need feature nailing, attachment fins, or flanges on their exterior
