Pleated blind vs. roller blind — slim window solutions

The quick overview

Both pleated blinds and roller blinds are mounted directly on the window sash — on request completely without drilling. The big difference: a pleated blind has two freely movable rails, a roller blind a single length of fabric. Almost everything else follows from that.

FeaturePleated blindRoller blind
ConstructionTwo movable rails (top + bottom)A single length of fabric from the top
Light controlVery flexible: middle open, top/bottom closedFrom the top only — open or closed
No drillingYes, clamp brackets on the sashYes, clamp brackets
Skylights & sloped windowsIdeal, guided tautVertical standard windows only
Special shapes (triangular …)PossibleKaum
BlackoutHoneycomb/blackout, guided at the sidesBlackout or double roller blind
LookFinely pleated, textileSmooth surface, often graphic patterns
Price from (guide value)approx. CHF 79 per windowapprox. CHF 59 per window
Ideal forKitchen, bathroom, skylights, special shapesLiving/bedroom, large straight windows

When the pleated blind has the edge

The pleated blind is the all-rounder for tricky windows. Because both rails move freely, you can operate it from the top and from the bottom operate it — closed at the bottom for privacy, open at the top for daylight (top-down/bottom-up).

  • Skylights, triangular and sloped windows: As a taut pleated blind the fabric sits tight and doesn't sag through.
  • Kitchen and bathroom: The slim, moisture-resistant construction is unobtrusive and doesn't collect dust the way a large piece of fabric does.
  • Privacy without blackout: A transparent pleated blind keeps prying eyes out during the day but still lets light in.
  • Thermal insulation: Als Honeycomb blind (Duette) it also provides extra insulation for the window.

When a roller blind is the better choice

On large, straight windows the roller blind plays to its strengths: a calm, smooth surface — and usually cheaper per square metre.

  • Large standard windows & balcony doors: lots of coverage for a small price.
  • Design in focus: Roller blind fabrics come with graphic patterns and in many colours.
  • Darken the bedroom: a blackout or double roller blind (day/night) makes it properly dark.
  • Motorisation: Roller blinds can be retrofitted with an electric motor without any hassle.

Price comparison

Neither is generally «cheaper» — it depends on the window. For large, straight windows the roller blind is usually cheaper per area. For small windows and special shapes the pleated blind is often the more economical and cleaner solution, because it fits precisely. The configurator shows the exact price for your measurements in two minutes.

Rule of thumb: Skylight, bathroom, kitchen or special shape → Pleated blind. Large straight window that should be darkened or styled affordably → Roller blind.

Calculate both prices yourself in 2 minutes

Enter your measurements, choose a fabric — the configurator immediately shows the full price. Samples come free with it.

Calculate pleated blind Calculate roller blind Free samples

Frequently asked questions

Good to know

Which is cheaper, a pleated blind or a roller blind?

For large, straight windows the roller blind is usually cheaper per area. For small windows and special shapes the pleated blind is often more economical because it fits precisely. A roller blind starts at roughly CHF 59, a pleated blind from CHF 79 per window.

Can pleated blinds and roller blinds be installed without drilling?

Yes, both are available with clamp brackets that sit directly on the window sash — without a single hole. That's ideal for rented flats.

Which is better suited for a skylight?

The taut pleated blind. It's guided at both top and bottom, sits tight and doesn't sag through even when installed at an angle. A classic roller blind is only suitable for vertical windows.

Which blocks out more light?

For the bedroom, a blackout or double roller blind darkens very well. With pleated blinds, that's handled by a honeycomb blind (Duette) with opaque fabric, which also insulates.

Is both available motorised?

Yes. Both pleated blinds and roller blinds can be fitted with a motor and radio remote control. Roller blinds are especially easy to retrofit.