Manual vs Electric Motorhome Awnings

Once you have settled on the size and mounting of your motorhome awning, there is one more choice to make: manual or electric. Both use the same quality Thule Omnistor awning; the difference is simply how you wind it out. Here is how to decide.


As a family-run Thule specialist, we set up both every day - this is our honest take.


Manual (wind-out) awnings

A manual awning extends using a telescopic hand crank. Give it a wind and the awning rolls out; wind it back and it closes neatly into its cassette.


Pros:


  • Lower cost, and one less thing that can ever need power

  • Simple, reliable and easy to live with

  • Perfectly quick once you have done it a couple of times


Best for: most owners, smaller and mid-size motorhomes, and anyone who likes to keep things simple.

Electric awnings

An electric awning extends and retracts at the touch of a button, using a fitted motor. No crank, no reaching - just press and go.


Pros:


  • Effortless, one-touch operation

  • Ideal on larger awnings that are heavier to wind by hand

  • A real convenience if you set up and pack down often, or if reaching and cranking is awkward


Best for: larger motorhomes, longer awnings, and anyone who wants maximum convenience.


Good to know: several Thule Omnistor awnings - including the 5200, 8000 and 9200 - can be supplied with an electric motor, and some ranges can even have a motor fitted retrospectively, so you are not necessarily locked in forever if you start manual.

Which should you choose?

A simple way to decide:


  • Want the lowest cost and the simplest setup? Go manual.

  • Have a large awning, set up often, or just want the convenience? Go electric.


If you are torn, think about how big your awning is and how often you will use it. The bigger and more frequently used it is, the more an electric awning earns its keep.

Still not sure?

Tell us your motorhome and how you like to camp, and we will recommend the right option - just contact us. We are always happy to talk it through before you spend a penny.

Why buy from Perfect Awnings

We are a family-run business specialising in genuine, award-winning Thule awnings. Whichever you choose, you get real expert support, our Price Match Promise, free UK delivery over £250, and the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty. Prefer to have it fitted? We can point you to our installation and repair service and its nationwide network of approved installers.

FAQs


Is an electric awning worth it? 

On larger awnings, and if you set up and pack down often, many owners find the convenience well worth it. On a smaller awning used occasionally, a manual is often all you need.


Can I add a motor later? 

Some Thule ranges can have an electric motor fitted retrospectively. Tell us your model and we will confirm whether yours can.


Are electric awnings reliable? 

Thule's motorised awnings are well engineered and covered by the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty, the same as the manual versions.


Which motorhome awnings come as electric? 

Thule models such as the 5200, 8000 and 9200 are available motorised. Ask us and we will confirm the options for your van.

Related motorhome guides




Ready to choose?

Browse the caravan and motorhome awning range, or call us on 02380 706542 or email sales@perfectawnings.co.uk - we will help you find the perfect awning at the perfect price.