Engine or crank? It depends on more than you think
The question of whether to choose a motor or a crank is one of the most common questions we get. The answer depends not only on your budget—but also on the size of the awning, how often you use it, and whether you want to integrate it with your smart home.
In this guide, we directly compare motorized and manual patio awnings in terms of convenience, price, durability, and installation—so you can make an informed choice.
Motorized patio awning – comfort at the touch of a button
An electric patio awning is powered by a built-in tubular motor that opens and closes the awning using a remote control, wall switch, or app. The motor is concealed inside the awning's tube and is not visible from the outside.
Advantages of the engine:
- Opens and closes in under 30 seconds—regardless of size
- No physical effort required—especially important for wide awnings (4+ meters)
- Smart home integration via Somfy—control via app, timer, or sun/wind sensor
- An automatic wind sensor retracts the awning in strong winds—protecting the fabric
- Quiet operation – modern engines are barely audible
Disadvantages of the engine:
- Higher price – an engine adds to the price, with the amount depending on the model and size
- Requires a power outlet near the installation site (or an electrician)
- In the event of a power outage, the awning cannot be retracted without the emergency crank
Manual patio awning with a crank – reliable and self-contained
A crank-operated awning is driven by a gear mechanism that you operate using a removable crank. The mechanism is simple, sturdy, and completely independent of electricity.
Advantages of a crank:
- Lower purchase price
- No electricity required—perfect for places without nearby outlets
- No electronic components that can break
- Always works—even during a power outage
Disadvantages of a crank:
- It takes 1–2 minutes to open or close a wide awning
- Requires physical exertion—may be difficult for people with limited mobility
- No automatic adjustment—you have to adjust it yourself when the wind changes
- No smart home integration available
Motor vs. Crank – Quick Comparison
| Property | Engine | Crank |
|---|---|---|
| Open/Close | ~20 seconds | 1–2 minutes |
| Comfort | Remote Control/App | Manual handle |
| Smart Home | Yes | No |
| Price (add-on) | +View the configurator | Included in the base price |
| Electricity is required | Yes (230V outlet) | No |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Minimal |
| Service life of engine/transmission | 15–20 years / 25,000+ cycles | Mechanical – essentially unlimited |
Our recommendation—when should you choose an engine?
Select an engine if:
- The awning is of the wider type
- You want smart home integration (Somfy, Google Home, HomeKit)
- The awning is installed in a spot you use every day
Select a crank if:
- There are no electrical outlets near the installation site
- You want to keep the budget as low as possible
- The awning is used less frequently (summer house, guest balcony)
Can you retrofit a motor to a crank-operated awning?
Yes—in most cases. Our Velum awnings are designed to be retrofitted with a motor. The motor kit includes a tubular motor, a remote control, and a connection cable. So if you start out with a crank and change your mind, you can upgrade without having to replace the entire awning.
Contact us to verify that your model and size are compatible.
The Velum Series – Motor or Crank, the Choice Is Yours
All three models in the Velum series are available with a motor or a crank:
- Velum Lite – crank as standard, motor as an option
- Velum Plus – motor or crank, with optional Somfy integration
- Velum Pro – motor as standard (full cassette), crank as an option
How much does a patio awning cost? Price Guide for Patios and Balconies 2026
The price of a patio awning varies greatly depending on size, model, and optional features. A compact balcony awning with a crank costs very differently than a 5-meter fully retractable awning with a motor and sun/wind sensor.
Five Factors That Determine Price
- Width and Drop – Larger awning = more material = higher price. Every extra meter in width adds significantly to the cost.
- Motor or crank – Motorized awnings cost more – the exact additional cost depends on the model and size.
- Cassette type – A full cassette (which protects the fabric and mechanism) costs more than an open awning.
- Fabric quality and color – Premium patterns and special colors may incur an additional charge.
- Accessories – Sun/Wind Sensor, Remote Control
NOTE: Always check the current price in the configurator, as all of our awnings are made-to-measure.
