The 9 Best Retractable Awnings of 2023

Escape the sun in style

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Best Retractable Awnings

The Spruce / Sabrina Jiang

retractable awning adds shade to your outdoor living space without the hassle of getting permits, finding a contractor, or taking on a major renovation project.

We researched dozens of options, evaluating them for durability, overall value, ease of installation, and protection from the elements to find the perfect pick for your space, your needs, and your budget.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

AECOJOY Retractable Patio Awning

4.7
AECOJOY Retractable Patio Awning

Amazon

What We Like
  • Four size options

  • UV- and water-resistant fabric

  • Good customer service

  • Relatively affordable

What We Don't Like
  • One color option

  • Hand-crank could be hard to access

The AECOJOY Retractable Patio Awning stands out for its versatility and durability, making it our top pick for most yards. You can choose from four size options depending on the space you need to cover. Although it only comes in beige, it is neutral and can complement any decor. The fabric is made from UV-resistant, fade-resistant, and water-resistant polyester, and the frame is lightweight, powder-coated aluminum.

The awning is easy to operate using a manual hand crank mechanism. One thing to keep in mind, though, is placement. A hand crank may pose a problem if you need to install it up high, so consider the height of your awning placement before making your choice.

This AECOJOY awning can be installed on various wall types, including solid brick, concrete, or wood, but requires some know-how for installation. Fortunately, the company’s customer service is available for any questions you may have during installation or use.

Price at time of publish: $278+

Dimensions: 13 x 10, 8.2 x 6.5, 10 x 8, 13 x 8 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Aluminum︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best Budget

Artpuch Rectangle Shade Sail

Artpuch Rectangle Shade Sail

Amazon

What We Like
  • Budget-friendly

  • Plenty of size and color options

  • Easy installation

What We Don't Like
  • Not good for storms

  • May require setup and take-down more often

This retractable awning requires a more complicated setup and take-down process every time you want to use it, but you can't beat the budget-friendly price. It uses hefty stainless-steel D-rings to stay secure over a 10-x-13-foot space. The fabric is made of high-density plastic to protect you from UV rays without fading. It comes in 10 colors and nine sizes, so you have lots of options to find the right one for your space.

Because it has a more straightforward installation process, the Sun Shade doesn't stand up to high winds or rain as well as some of the other picks on our list. It will protect you from the elements but is best for calm, sunny days. While you can leave it up, if you expect anything more than a light shower, it's best to take it down ahead of time.

Price at time of publish: $40+

Dimension: 10 x 13 feet︱Fabric: Plastic︱Frame Material: Stainless steel D-rings︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: To any supports

Best Luxury

Diensweek Retractable Patio Awning

Diensweek Retractable Patio Awning

Amazon

What We Like
  • Fully assembled

  • Elegant style

  • UV and water-resistant fabric

What We Don't Like
  • Only one size and color

To give your home some European flair, consider this green and white striped Fully Retractable Patio Awning from Diensweek. It is available in a generous 12-x-10-foot size and comes fully assembled and ready to install. The manual mechanism and frame are corrosion-resistant aluminum, and the fabric is a sturdy UV- and water-resistant polyester that can withstand strong winds.

It is limited to just one size and color, so it may not work for all styles or spaces. It's best for concrete or large brick walls because it is so large and heavy. If you want to use it on wood or laminate exterior, the brand recommends seeking guidance from a professional.

Price at time of publish: $700

Dimension: 12 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Aluminum︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best Motorized

Awntech Key West Full Cassette Right Motorized Retractable Awning

Awntech Key West Full Cassette Right Motorized Retractable Awning

Home De Pot

What We Like
  • Many colors options

  • High-quality fabric

  • Motorized with remote

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • May require specialty installation

Motorized retractable awnings are extremely easy to use. The Key West awning from Awntech is a top-of-the-line option that includes all mounting hardware, a high-quality canopy, and a remote. Available in 18 colors, the fabric resists UV rays, rain, soil, and mildew, and it can withstand winds up to 35 mph. There are also multiple width and depth options, resulting in a genuinely customizable awning for your home.

Although the motor makes this awning easy to use, it is more expensive and heavier than manual options, which may also impact the installation. The cord is 12 feet long, so make sure you have an outlet or extension cord readily available. You may also want to talk to an electrician or have them install it for you.

Price at time of publish: $2,298

Dimension: 12 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Steel and aluminum︱Pitch Positions: 15 Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best for Rain

Awntech California Manual Retractable Patio Awning

Awntech California Manual Retractable Patio Awning

Lowes

What We Like
  • High-quality fabric

  • Manual operation

  • Budget-friendly

What We Don't Like
  • Not a lot of color options

Awntech’s California retractable awning brings all the style and quality of Awntech to a manual version that is easier on the budget and can withstand inclement weather. The canopy fabric is water- and fade-resistant and provides UV protection from the sun. The lack of electronic components makes it a better choice if you know that you will get plenty of rain while it is in use.

There aren’t as many color options in this model as some of Awntech’s motorized options, but their colors will complement various exterior styles, and the stripes add a classic outdoorsy look.

Price at time of publish: $828

Dimension: 12 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Stainless steel and aluminum︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best for Wind

ADVANING Motorized Patio Retractable Awning

ADVANING Motorized Patio Retractable Awning

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy-to-adjust pitch

  • Removable valance

  • Weather-resistant fabric

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

While most retractable awnings should be closed up during high winds, this option gives you the freedom to adjust the pitch, minimizing the risk of damage. With a simple twist of a hand crank, the Advaning Motorized Patio Retractable Awning quickly adjusts thanks to a three-loop system.

It has most of the features you'll want at a midrange price, including multiple sizes and color options, UV- and water-resistant fabric, a high-quality frame, and a remote. The valance can also be removed if you want a more modern look.

Price at time of publish: $1,700

Dimension: 12 x 10, 8 x 7, 10 x 8, 13 x 10, 16 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Acrylic︱Frame Material: Steel and aluminum︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best Extra Large

ALEKO Motorized Retractable Black Frame Patio Awning

ALEKO Motorized Retractable Black Frame Patio Awning

Amazon

What We Like
  • Extra-large size

  • 16 color options

  • Motorized or hank crank options

What We Don't Like
  • Can show wear or fading early

It can be tough to find a high-quality retractable awning for an extra-large space, but this option from ALEKO comes in sizes up to 20 x 10 feet. There are also plenty of color options, so you don't need to sacrifice style for size. We also like that it offers both motorized- and hand-crank options. The latter will come in handy if the power goes out.

The fabric is treated with a UV- and weather-resistant protectant but has shown more signs of wear than some higher-end options. The powder-coated steel frame holds up well to the elements as long as it is not damaged or chipped.

Price at time of publish: $679

Dimension: 20 x 10, 10 x 8, 13 x 10, 16 x 10, 12 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Powder-coated steel︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best All-Weather

Outsunny 10' x 8' Manual Retractable Awning

Outsunny 10' x 8' Manual Retractable Awning

Outsunny

What We Like
  • High-quality fabric

  • Lightweight

  • Budget-friendly

  • Many color options

  • Fits many surfaces

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly can be difficult

  • Only one size

The retractable awning from Outsunny is designed to withstand the elements, so you can enjoy it rain or shine for years to come. It's UV- and water-resistant and will help protect you from the sun and rain. It also has an additional coating to keep it looking and performing great over time. The aluminum and steel frame also offers extra protection from rust and corrosion.

Another plus, it easily mounts on various surfaces, including stucco, siding, and concrete. All of the hardware is included, but you will have to assemble this pick yourself, which may take a while. When mounted and secured correctly, it will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it—just be sure to follow the provided instructions. 

Price at time of publish: $170

Dimension: 10 x 8 feet︱Fabric: Polyester︱Frame Material: Aluminum and steel︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Best Sun Protection

SunSetter Sunbrella Retractable Standard Patio Awning

SunSetter Sunbrella Retractable Standard Patio Awning

SunSetter

What We Like
  • Built-in solar screen

  • 10 year warranty

  • Water and UV-resistant fabric

  • Arrives fully assembled

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

For maximum protection from wind, rain, and sun, look to Sunsetter. The brand's trademarked 100 percent solution-dyed woven acrylic fabric Sunbrella fabric is UV and water-resistant and comes with a 10-year limited warranty in case of any damage. The best part? This awning also includes a 5-foot retractable front sun shade to block 90 percent of sun and glare for a screen-in patio feel without the commitment or cost.

The awning arrives fully assembled and retracts easily with a remote control. Built in the USA, Sunsetter awnings claim to cool your deck or patio up to 20 degrees for a true escape during the brutal summer heat. We also love that you can mount it on just about any surface, including brick, concrete, wood, vinyl, aluminum, and siding. Due to the high price tag and heavy-duty design, you may want to consult a professional when mounting.

Price at time of publish: $3,700

Dimension: 14 x 10, 15 x 10, 16 x 10, 17 x 10, 18 x 10, 19 x 10, 20 x 10 feet︱Fabric: Sunbrella fabric︱Frame Material: Aluminum︱Pitch Positions: Adjustable︱Mounting Type: Wall-mounted

Final Verdict

Our top pick is the AECOJOY Retractable Patio Awning Retractable. It works with various budgets, comes in multiple sizes, and will protect you from the elements. For a high-quality motorized option, we recommend the Awntech Key West Full Cassette Right Motorized Retractable Awning, which comes with a remote and has a lot of color and size options.

What to Look for in a Retractable Awning

Fabric

The most common awning fabric is polyester, which should be treated with a coating that prevents fading and damage. Look for models that promise protection from UV rays, water, and mildew and are stain-resistant to keep your maintenance low. For example, the Outsunny option features UV and water-resistant polyester, so it's a great pick for all weather.

Frame Material

A retractable awning frame should be durable enough to withstand moderate winds and rain but light enough to be easily installed on your home’s exterior. Aluminum and stainless steel are good options that hold up against the elements and provide the structure you need. Coated frames, as seen in our best overall pick, also protect against rust that can build up over time.

Installation

Mounting a retractable awning usually doesn’t require any particular skills or knowledge. Still, you should follow the installation instructions and recommendations to avoid damaging your home. Pay close attention to the need for wall anchors or other structural reinforcements. When in doubt, consult a professional. Beginners should look for an awning that arrives fully assembled, like the Diensweek Patio Awning. Likely, you'll have to pay more for a fully assembled option, but it saves time in the long run.

FAQ
  • How do you install a retractable awning?

    Wall-mounted retractable awnings can come already assembled or with some assembly required. The installation process usually involves wall anchors or mounting hardware, which must be secured with heavy-duty exterior wall screws. If you choose a motorized awning, you will also need to have access to a power source.

  • How do you care for a retractable awning?

    Much like an outdoor umbrella, you should clean the awning’s fabric at least once per year, more often if you live in a harsher climate. You can also wipe it down, hose it off, or spot-treat stains between deep cleanings. The frame should be kept free from debris, and it is advisable to clean and inspect your awning once per season.

  • What materials should you look for in a retractable awning?

    A top-quality retractable awning should be made of a heavy-duty fabric designed for outdoor use. The best fabric options are rain- and mildew-resistant and block harmful UV rays. Look for a metal frame—such as stainless steel or aluminum—that won't rust or corrode over time.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Begley has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. She has lived in California and Hawaii and understands the need for a comfortable outdoor space that can be enjoyed year-round. For this list, Begley considered the materials in each awning, how easy they were to use and install, and their overall value.

Updated by
Julia Fields
Julia Fields
Julia is the Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, covering all things toys, gifts, holidays, and seasonal content. She studied English and minored in Journalism and Gender and Sexuality Studies at New York University. 
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