Electric vs. Manual Roller Shutters

Which Is Better for Your Home or Business?

Roller shutters are an excellent way to keep your business and family safe. Both improve security, privacy, insulation, and light control. But the best option depends on how often you’ll use them, the size of the opening, and whether it’s for a home or a business.

Our Sydney based roller shutters team has put together a comparison table so you can decide on which one is best for you. If you’re choosing roller shutters, the biggest decision is simple:

For most homes

  • Electric roller shutters are usually best if you’ll use them every day, you have larger windows, or you want easy control.

  • Manual roller shutters are a good choice if you only need one or two shutters and you’ll use them less often.

For most businesses

  • Electric is usually the best option for shopfronts, warehouses, and commercial sites where staff open and close shutters daily.

  • Manual can suit low-traffic areas like storerooms or small openings that are rarely operated.

Electric vs. Manual Roller Shutters Table Comparison

Check out our table for a comparison between Electric and Manual Roller Shutters.

Electric Roller Shutters

Are: Easy-to-use, convenient and provide reliability at the touch of a button.
 
Pros:
 Easy to use
 Convenient
 Provide reliability at the touch of a button
 Choice of user-friendly battery-powered remote control or user-friendly control panel (mounted close to shutter)
 Can be supplied with manual handle – giving you the best of both worlds!
 Saves serious time
 Improve (or even complete) home automation
 Allows you to focus on more important household tasks
 Very durable and generally will outlast the warranty period
 Installation much easier than manual
 Less chance of wear and tear and servicing costs in the future
 Typically, longer warranty
 Home Security
 Sun & Weather Protection
 Energy Savings
 Noise Reduction
 Privacy & Light Control
 Bush Fire Protection
 Climate Control
 Improved Home Value
 
Cons:
 Slightly more expensive then manual
 Need to consider an emergency battery system if your area frequently loses power
 
Note: You can read in-depth about Electric Roller Shutters here.

Manual Roller Shutters

Are: Cost-effective solution that is operated with a convenient strap and winder.
 
Pros:
 Cost-effective
 Easily controlled with user friendly strap and winder
 Will work even when no power
 No electrician required to install as no requirement for access to power
 Ideal for rooms that are not used much
 Keeps you active when you bring the shutter up and down each time!
 Home Security
 Sun & Weather Protection
 Energy Savings
 Noise Reduction
 Privacy & Light Control
 Bush Fire Protection
 Climate Control
 Improved Home Value
 
Cons:
 Only open one at a time
 Can become more of a chore to operate
 Installation more difficult
 Not suited for big windows or doorways (as heavy to lift)
 More frequent servicing may be needed with more tape wear and tear if used often
 Using them is a more physical task and therefore not suited to those with a disability, seniors and anyone with an injury
 Could be lifted by an intruder from outside your home more easily than an electric roller shutter
 
Note: You can read in-depth about Manual Roller Shutters here
 
Electric vs Manual Roller Shutters

What’s the difference between manual and electric roller shutters?

Manual roller shutters

Manual shutters are operated by:

  • a strap

  • a winder

  • or a crank handle

You lift and lower the shutter yourself. There is no motor and no electrical connection required.

Electric (motorised) roller shutters

Electric shutters use a motor inside the roller tube. You control them with:

  • a wall switch

  • a remote control

  • and in some cases smart controls (depending on the system)

They are made for quick daily use. You press a button and the shutter moves smoothly.

Cost and value (what affects the price in real life)

Instead of guessing random prices, here’s what actually drives cost in Australia:

  • Shutter size (bigger shutters need stronger components)

  • Number of shutters (more openings = more labour and materials)

  • Access (multi-storey installs can take longer)

  • Control choice (switch, remote, grouped controls, smart options)

  • Electrical access (how easy it is to run power to the shutter)

  • Usage frequency (daily operation puts more demand on moving parts)

Can you upgrade manual shutters to electric later?

In many cases, yes.

If you start with manual shutters and later want convenience, motorising can often be done (depending on shutter condition and size). The best approach is to ask during your quote so the shutter is designed with future upgrades in mind.

Get a free quote

We supply and install roller shutters across Sydney, the Central Coast, and Wollongong.

We’ll help you choose the right option for your home or business:

  • Manual or electric

  • Best control style for your routine

  • A clean, professional install with clear pricing

Roller Shutter People

Why Choose Us

  • Highest Quality
  • Highest Durability
  • Highest Functionality
  • Lowest Prices
  • Longest Warranty
  • Qualified Tradespeople
  • Australian (Sydney) Made
  • Australian (Sydney) Owned
  • Family Run
  • Family Owned

Call us or request a free quote through the website.

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