The simple answer is…BOTH ARE AWESOME!
First, let us explain the difference between a Single Cell and Cell-in-Cell shade.
A Single Cell shade has one row (single) or layer, of cells that stack on top of each other. And a Cell-in-Cell shade has intertwined, cells nestled in each other, super cozy like- providing you with two layers of cells.
Let’s explore cells and how they effect R-Value!

Do you want the cleanest look?
Then single cell shades are for you! Single cells are slightly larger than double cells. A smaller cell size means more rows(horizontal lines)
Do you need the BEST in energy efficiency?
I’m gonna age myself here, but “double your pleasure, double your fun“.. Cell-in-Cell are for you. 😉 Look at that chart above again. Cell-in-Cell add the most insulation.
Do you want the energy efficiency that is budget friendly?
Single Cell Shades are for you! With single cell fabrics you get a LOT of bang for for your hard-earned buck. Room-Darkening Single Cell shades provide some of the best in light control and privacy. But that’s not all, Single Cell Room-Darkening shades will also give you significant savings on your heating and cooling costs. Super awesome!
Are you looking for the most noise reduction?
Cellular Shades are your GO TO! No doubt. Both Single Cell & Cell-in-Cell shades have awesome sound absorption qualities. And you know what we’re gonna say next – just like a Cell-in-Cell shade offers amazing insulating powers, they also offer much more noise reduction. The Cell-in-Cell design is excellent at trapping both air and noise. Do you live in a particularly noisy area? Go Cell-in-Cell, for maximum noise reduction.👍
Do you have another question?
Our Shade Gurus are here to guide you.
That’s Smart. EcoSmart.