Cheap Replacement Windows
By cheap replacement windows, we are not necessarily referring to the quality - these are our selections for budget replacement windows that will perform fine and won't break the bank. These selections are ideal if money is really tight or if you want to replace windows, but don’t plan on sticking around more than 12 or so years.
Our Verdict: Cost conscious consumers should take extra caution to find a reputable window installer who doesn't take shortcuts and will properly square up, seal and caulk the windows for the best energy efficiency and long term value. Typically, I always recommend that consumers stretch into a mid range vinyl window option for better long term value.
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List Of Affordable Replacement Windows
This is my list of cheap replacement windows that still offers decent value to homeowners. Happy window hunting!
Dane - Site Editor
Soft-Lite Barrington Series
This is the Pennsylvania based company's entry level window and probably the only series from Soft-Lite that I would say isn’t great. Still, the Barrington is a well made unit that delivers roughly a .10 air infiltration rating on the double hung, which is still quite respectable. This window is not available through big box stores so you will definitely need to buy this through a Soft-Lite window dealer, which are available in many of the midwest, northeast and Atlantic states.
Soft-Lite Barrington Cost: $675 Per Window Installed
Reliabilt 3500 Series
The Reliabilt 3500 series is a vinyl double hung and is the rebranded Atrium 8700 window. This is Reliabilt's top of the line replacement window and comes standard with a lifetime warranty on parts, glass and the vinyl frame. The 3500 comes in white, almond or bronze, comes with an aluminum sash reinforcement, 3 grid options and has a DP35 rating. Expect slightly better (or lower) performance numbers than the 3301 model. Read more Reliabilt reviews.
Reliabilt 3500 Cost: $625 Per Window Installed
Sunrise Essentials Series
The Essentials series is Sunrise's budget window. It has a pretty good glass package, with an AI of 0.10 and U-Value of 0.30. Instead of the extrusions and sash design used in other Sunrise lines, it uses less durable versions to save costs. The colors are limited and it only comes in a double hung, slider, and picture style. It does okay in smaller opening or when you are on a strict budget, but most home owners would be happier with a Standard Sunrise for not much more.
Sunrise Essentials Cost: $725 Per Window Installed
Simonton 5050 Or Asure Series
Technically these are two different series, but they are very close to one another. The 5050 and Asure are decent entry level windows. Simonton tends to make a bulkier vinyl window than most, which means less glass, but it also means better performance data and overall strength. All in all, a decent option for budget minded consumers. The 5050 was largely replaced by the Simonton Assure Series in 2012 (although price quotes on the 5050 series still come up). See more on Simonton windows prices.
Simonton 5050 Cost: $650 Per Window Installed
Milgard StyleLine Series
Milgard's StyleLine is a thinner framed, more modern looking window with uneven sightlines and more glass than the Tuscany. It doesn't have a vent lock or weep hole covers, and features an elevated locking mechanism. It is less expensive than the Milgard Tuscany (about 10%), largely because the increased glass makes it less energy efficient.
While not a world beater, the Styleline has okay performance numbers that will serve you well when combined with good quality installation. Milgard is a west half of the country company and the Styleline is doable for anyone living in relatively mild climates.
Milgard StyleLine Cost: $700 Per Window Installed
Ply Gem Pro Series
Slightly better than the Contractor, the Ply Gem Pro is a mid grade window but is still designed for the bargain hunter. A painted cellular PVC, is used to be called the Grandview 4000 and was made by Great Lakes. With a stainless steel spacer, is has a 25 year transferable warranty, but that does not include coverage for glass breakage. Although it doesn't have a reinforced sash like the Premium Series, is has fairly respectable numbers with an R-Value of 3.45, AI of 0.19, U-factor of 0.29, SHGC of 0.27 and DP30.
Ply Gem Pro Cost: $750 Per Window Installed
Alright, so those are our picks for the best cheap replacement windows. If you like this page and you’re in the market for windows, we have a free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes. We will help you answer any project questions and help sort through any project bids to help you get the very best window at the very best price. That is our personal guarantee to you.
Homeowner Cheap Replacement Windows Q And A
Check out our Q and A on which windows and window brands are cheap, affordable, or overpriced. If you have a question for us, we'd love to hear from you.
Dane - Website Editor
Amerimax Vinyl Windows Review
| Review Detail | Homeowner Experience |
|---|---|
| Window Brand | Amerimax vinyl windows |
| Ownership Period | Approximately 5 years |
| Appearance | Vinyl remains white and attractive |
| Operation | Smooth movement with no reported problems |
| Air and Water Performance | No leaks or drafts reported |
| Renewal by Andersen Comparison | Quoted at approximately 5 times the cost |
"About 5 years ago I had Amerimax vinyl windows put in my Los Angeles home. They are still very nice and white. They work well, with a smooth movement and no leaks or drafts. When we were shopping for them we saw some really cheap vinyl windows. I'm sure if we had bought those we would have problems. We also looked at Renewal by Andersen window costs, but those cost 5 times as much. He kept saying that we wouldn't be happy if we went with vinyl, but that's crazy. People have been using vinyl windows for years, and if they were horrible no one would buy them."
Kenneth, Homeowner in California - from 2026
⭐ PRO TIP - to save money - always collect 2 to 3 estimates and compare project quotes! ⭐
Low Cost Replacement Windows In Indianapolis
| Decision Factor | Homeowner Preference |
|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Affordable and reliable replacement windows |
| Preferred Material | Vinyl or another low-maintenance option |
| Energy Efficiency | Important, but secondary to price and reliability |
| Appearance | Basic styling is acceptable |
| Best-Fit Product Tier | Good mid-range vinyl window |
"Hello Dane, my name is Andy, and I'm a 24-year old homeowner in Indianapolis, IN a few years out of college looking for some window advice! I'm looking to get some low cost replacement windows on my 20-25 year old, entry-level house. I've done a lot of research around windows as I've been looking at replacing them and am having a hard time deciding which route to go. I took a look at your worst window brands, but obviously I'd like to avoid those.
I really like the look and reliability of the budget-level Andersen windows, but, being an entry-level house, I feel like getting any Andersen windows would be a bit like putting a V8 engine in a Toyota Corolla.
For my priorities in a window, first and foremost, I'm looking for a low cost reliable window that won't give me any issues when installed correctly. I'd also prefer something on the cheaper side, though I'd rather pay more if it meant a more reliable window. Energy efficient windows are a plus, but not important enough to dramatically sacrifice on budget or brightness. Finally, again, being in an entry level neighborhood, style isn't really an important factor unless it comes with the added benefit of reliability or budget.
Do you have any recommendations on what type, window brand, style, etc. of window would best fit what I'm looking for? Thank you."
Andy, Homeowner - from 2023
Editor's Advice:
Andy, I might recommend sticking with the good vinyl windows list.
Dane — Website Editor - from 2023
Homeowner's Take On Cheap Replacement Windows
| Window Brand or Series | Primary Concern | Homeowner Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Amsco Windows | Product quality and warranty exclusions | Would not recommend |
| Pella Thermastar | Short warranty coverage | Concerned about long-term value |
| Jeld Wen Windows | Short warranty coverage | Concerned about long-term value |
| Value and Malibu Windows | Materials and construction quality | Poorly made |
"I see a lot about expensive brands, but the bargain windows aren't talked about as much. The Amsco windows I found were poorly made, had lousy warranties, and were just horrible. I wouldn't recommend them to anyone, it's best to just stay away. Amsco's warranty doesn't cover labor and has so many exclusions it's a joke.
Pella Thermastar and all of the Jeld Wen windows only have a one year warranty, which means it expires before you've really had a chance to see the window in all weathers. Value and Malibu are really poorly made, both materials and design are cheap."
Todd, Homeowner - from 2009
⭐ PRO TIP - to save money - always collect 2 to 3 estimates and compare project quotes! ⭐
Installer's Budget Window Brand Ranking
| Window Brand or Series | Installer Ranking | Installer's Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Milgard | 1st | Best overall option among the brands discussed |
| Ply Gem | 2nd | Better option than Reliabilt or Jeld Wen |
| Reliabilt 3301 | 3rd | May perform adequately with quality installation and limited use |
| Jeld Wen | 4th | Lowest-ranked option among the brands discussed |
| Silverline 9500 | Personal Experience | Reportedly performed without problems for eight years |
"While I never recommend buying cheap windows for a house, I certainly understand your situation. So of all the brands you mentioned, I'll say the Milgard and Ply Gem are better options than the Reliabilt and Jeld Wen. And if I had to rank them, I would do it in the same order they are mentioned, with the Milgard being the best and the Jeld Wen being at the bottom of the list.
The biggest issue I see with lower end vinyl windows is that the homeowner also skimp on installation, which is almost more important with a low end product.
If you get reliable installation, then you can probably put in a Reliabilt 3301 and not have any issues with it for many years, especially if it isn't being used super often. I have a Silverline 9500 window in my house that I installed 8 years ago and have never had any issues with and let's be honest it's not the best built product out there."
Joey, Installer - from 2012
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