CELLULAR (or Honeycomb) SHADES

Look-alike cellular (or honeycomb) shades may be VERY different materials.

The weaves can be so different, you may NOT be able to clean the less expensive shade that LOOKS just like the other one (or brand) you may be considering.

Also, understand the pleats may not hang at the same length after being in the window for 6 months.   A lower quality, less expensive weave may not retain the correct length after a short period of use.  If this doesn't matter -- say, because the shade is being mounted in a basement gameroom -- go with the lower cost choice.  Do not disappoint yourself in a Living, Dining or Great Room you may use daily, and where such difference will be clearly noticeable -- even by an untrained eye.

WOOD and FAUX WOOD BLINDS

Careful with a cut-down option whose center strings (or "ladders" as we call them) are located too close to the center of the blind, or don't have at least three ladders on wider windows --- the wood slats may warp and fewer ladders will show this warping more clearly.

Faux woods should not be made of vinyl; some vinyl will fade and crack after only a year or so of use.

Expect wear on the strings that control your treatment.  If your product is wide or heavy one to accommodate your window, be sure you have a quality string that won't wear out after only a single's year use. 

In short, know that the slightly higher price you may pay for a quality product alternative will long be forgotten after the years of extra use and enjoyment you'll get.   But you'll remember  exactly how much you wasted after only a single year of use from an inferior choice.