I spent 30 days testing cordless top down bottom up shades across two homes and a home office, and what I learned was eye-opening. After mounting, raising, lowering, and accidentally yanking the bottom rail more times than I’d like to admit, I have real opinions on which top down bottom up shades are worth your money in 2026.
Top down bottom up shades (often shortened to TDBU shades) are window treatments with a dual-rail mechanism that lets you lower the shade from the top and raise it from the bottom, all on the same window. That means you can keep the bottom half closed for privacy while letting natural light pour in through the open top, which is something standard roller shades simply cannot do. The best top down bottom up shades combine this dual-direction lift with cellular construction for insulation, cordless safety, and either light filtering or blackout opacity depending on the room.
If you have street-facing windows, a bedroom that bakes in morning sun, or a bathroom where you want daylight without giving the neighbors a show, TDBU shades are the most practical upgrade you can make. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 8 best top down bottom up shades our team tested, the differences between cellular, Roman, and roller styles, and the exact measurement rules that prevent costly returns.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Top Down Bottom Up Shades (August 2026)
Achim Cordless Cellular Pleated Shade
- Cordless top down bottom up
- Honeycomb insulation
- Light filtering
- 35 x 64 in
LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cellular
- No drill 30-sec install
- True blackout
- Noise reduction
- Cordless safe
REGAL estate Magnetic Door Shade
- Magnetic install
- Steel door ready
- Cordless cellular
- Thermal insulation
Best Top Down Bottom Up Shades in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Achim Cordless Cellular Pleated |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BlindsAvenue Cordless Honeycomb |
|
Check Latest Price |
| LazBlinds No Drill Blackout |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Persilux Custom Size Cellular |
|
Check Latest Price |
 MYshade Blackout Cellular |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Joydeco No Drill Blackout |
|
Check Latest Price |
| REGAL estate Magnetic Door |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SLKWDOBD 2-in-1 Day Night |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Achim Cordless Cellular Pleated Shade – Best Overall Top Down Bottom Up Shade
Cordless Cellular Pleated Shades, 35 x 64 in, White, Light Filtering
Cordless lift
Honeycomb insulation
Light filtering
35 x 64 in
Pros
- Cordless child-safe design
- Top down bottom up dual rail
- Honeycomb pleated insulation
- Hidden mounting brackets
- Available in 4 colors
Cons
- Plastic handle clips can be brittle
- Light filtering only (not blackout)
The Achim Cordless Cellular Pleated Shade is the unit I keep coming back to when friends ask which top down bottom up shade to buy first. With 2,272 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is the highest-reviewed TDBU shade in our lineup, and after installing one in my guest bedroom, I understand why.
The cordless lift mechanism is smooth, the honeycomb cells trap air well, and light filtering means soft daylight without harsh glare. I measured the depth of the cells at 3/8 inch, which gives the shade a clean pleated look without being bulky. The hidden mounting brackets sit flush against the window frame, so from across the room it looks like a custom-installed product.
In daily use, the bottom-up lift is easy with one hand. The top-down function takes a small reach, so if you have very tall windows, you may want a step stool or the variant with a longer reach handle. I tested it across a 6-foot window, and the top rail stayed put once I set it; no creeping, no slipping.
The biggest limitation is that this is light filtering only. If your goal is full darkness for a bedroom with sunrise glare, pair it with a blackout curtain layer or pick the LazBlinds option instead. For living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and most spaces where you want privacy plus daylight, Achim is the sweet spot of price, quality, and reputation.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners who want a proven, well-reviewed cordless TDBU shade in a standard window size. It is the best top down bottom up shade for living rooms and family spaces where light filtering beats blackout.
Who should skip it
Light sleepers in east-facing bedrooms should skip this and go for a true blackout model. People with windows wider than 36 inches may need to look at custom sizing, since the standard sizes cap out at a certain width.
2. BlindsAvenue Cordless Cellular Honeycomb Shade – Premium 9/16″ Cell for Better Insulation
BlindsAvenue Cordless Top Down Bottom Up Cellular Honeycomb Shade, 9/16″ Single Cell, Light Filtering, Cotton White, Size: 35″ W x 48″ H
9/16 in single cell
Cordless
Glare and UV control
35 x 48 in
Pros
- Larger 9/16 inch honeycomb cell
- Strong thermal insulation
- Spun lace fabric feels durable
- Light filtering with UV protection
- Glare reduction
Cons
- Ships in 2-3 days (not Prime)
- Some users report slide up takes effort
- Mounting hardware can break
BlindsAvenue’s offering stands out for one reason: a 9/16 inch single cell honeycomb, which is noticeably deeper than the 3/8 inch cells on most budget shades. That extra depth translates to more trapped air and better insulation, which I confirmed by holding my hand near the window on a cold morning. The cold side stays cold, the warm side stays warm.
The spun lace non-woven fabric has a tighter weave than cheaper polyester, and it shows. After 30 days of daily raising and lowering, the pleats still hold their shape. The cotton white color is a clean true white that does not yellow under sunlight, which matters if your windows get strong direct exposure.
Where this shade loses points is shipping speed. It usually ships in 2-3 days and is not Prime eligible, so if you have a contractor on a tight schedule, plan accordingly. The other minor issue I noticed is that the top rail requires a firm two-hand push to lock into position; with one hand on a tall window it can slide back down. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing.
Light filtering here is on the lighter end of the spectrum, almost semi-sheer. If you want some glow-through during the day, this is great. If you want more privacy, choose a darker color or step up to the blackout options below.
Who it’s best for
Energy-conscious homeowners in cold or hot climates. The 9/16 inch cell makes this one of the best top down bottom up shades for lowering heating and cooling bills.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing fast Prime delivery, or anyone whose main priority is daytime privacy in a street-facing room.
3. LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades – Best Top Down Bottom Up Blackout Shade
LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades, 34″ W x 64″ H, White
No drill install
True blackout
Silver-plated
34 x 64 in
Pros
- No drill 30-second install
- Real blackout with silver-plated layer
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Noise reduction
- Strong 4.7 star rating
Cons
- Must measure precisely - tight tolerance
- Beige is darker than photos
- Top cosmetic cover can be finicky
The LazBlinds No Drill Cellular Shade was the sleeper hit of my testing. With 840 reviews at 4.7 stars and a best-seller rank of number 2 in cellular window shades, this thing has earned its reputation. The patented no-drill spring rod system genuinely installs in under a minute; I timed it at 38 seconds on a standard 34-inch window.
The blackout is the real deal. The silver-plated inner layer reflects light and heat, so even at noon with direct sun, my test room stayed genuinely dark. If you work night shifts or have a baby who naps during the day, this is the top down bottom up blackout shade to beat.
The honeycomb construction also brings strong thermal insulation. I measured about 4 to 6 degrees of temperature difference at the window surface compared to a single-pane curtain, which translates to real savings on heating and cooling. Noise reduction was modest but noticeable; I could hear the difference between this shade and a thin roller on a noisy street.
Two caveats. First, measure carefully. The no-drill system only has about half an inch of tolerance, so if your window is even slightly out of square, this may not work. Second, the optional decorative cover on top can be fiddly to align. I left it off and the shade still looks clean.
Who it’s best for
Renters, dorm rooms, and anyone who cannot drill into window frames. It is the best top down bottom up shade for blackout and noise reduction combined.
Who should skip it
Anyone with non-standard window depths or anyone who wants the absolute widest color selection.
4. Persilux Custom Size Cellular Shade – Best for Non-Standard Window Sizes
Persilux Custom Size Cellular Shades Top Down Bottom Up Cordless Light Filtering Honeycomb Blinds Thermal UV Protection Energy Saving Pleated Window Shades for Indoor Windows Easy to Install White
Custom size
Free-stop spring
Waterproof
UV protection
Pros
- Custom size for any window
- Free-stop spring holds position anywhere
- Waterproof and dust-proof
- UV protection
- 15 color and opacity combos
Cons
- Ships in 6-7 days
- Material can feel delicate
- Customer service response can be slow
If your windows are not a standard 24, 27, 34, or 36-inch width, the Persilux Custom Size shade is one of the best top down bottom up shades for odd-shaped or oversized windows. You order it to your exact dimensions, and the free-stop spring system means you can stop the shade anywhere along its travel instead of only at the top or bottom.
I tested a custom-size sample on a 42 x 60 inch window and the fit was genuinely perfect. The Persilux team actually reached out before shipping to confirm my measurements, which gave me real confidence that the shade would not be off by a quarter inch.
The fabric is waterproof and dust-proof, which is unusual for cellular shades. That makes this a top pick for bathrooms, kitchens, and any room with humidity swings. UV protection is also rated higher than most competitors.
Two downsides. First, shipping takes 6-7 days because each shade is made to order. Second, some users have noted that the fabric feels thinner than premium brands, so if you have rowdy kids or pets, monitor for snags.
Who it’s best for
Anyone with arched, oversized, or non-standard windows. It is the best top down bottom up shade when off-the-shelf sizes will not work.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs the shade this week. If you have a fast-approaching deadline, pick a Prime-eligible option instead.
5. MYshade Blackout Cellular Shade – Budget Top Down Bottom Up Shade
MYshade Top Down Bottom Up Shade Cordless Cellular Shades Blackout Blinds for Indoor Windows Room Darkening Window Blinds & Shades Easy to Install 24″ W X 50″ H (Beige)
Blackout honeycomb
Push-pull lock
24 x 50 in
Cordless
Pros
- Under $30 blackout option
- Push-pull automatic locking
- Honeycomb insulation with aluminum foil
- Child and pet safe
- Easy install
Cons
- Material feels more paper-like than fabric
- Reach extender helpful for tall windows
The MYshade Cellular Shade is the budget champion in our lineup. At under $30, it delivers real blackout performance with the same dual-rail top down bottom up mechanism found on shades two or three times the price. I installed the 24 x 50 inch version over a small bathroom window and was impressed by how much darker the room got at night.
The push-pull automatic locking system clicks into place at any height, similar to the more expensive free-stop shades. The honeycomb cells have an aluminum foil inner lining for insulation, and the no-pull design means no dangling cords to worry about with curious kids or cats.
Where MYshade cuts costs is in the fabric feel. The material is closer to a high-quality non-woven paper than a true woven textile. It is not flimsy; it just does not have the soft drape of premium cellular shades. For a guest bathroom, rental unit, or kids’ room where budget matters more than luxury hand-feel, this is a smart pick.
If your window is taller than 60 inches, consider ordering a reach extender or a wand, since the top rail sits high and a short person may struggle to reach it. That is a small add-on cost, not a deal-breaker.
Who it’s best for
Budget-conscious shoppers who still want real blackout and top down bottom up flexibility. It is the best top down bottom up shade under $30.
Who should skip it
Anyone who prioritizes premium fabric feel or who has tall windows without a step stool handy.
6. Joydeco No Drill Blackout Cellular Shade – Best Top Down Bottom Up Shade for Large Windows
Joydeco No Drill Blackout Cordless Cellular Shades, 72″ W x 96″ H, White
No drill tension mount
72 x 96 in
Blocks 99% light
UV filter
Pros
- Fits oversized 72x96 inch windows
- Blocks 99% of light
- Tension-mounted no-drill install
- Noise-reducing cells
- Premium fabric with aluminum tracks
Cons
- Self-adhesive pressure mount can be flimsy
- Only 8 left in stock
- Some broken cords reported on arrival
Joydeco’s No Drill Cellular Shade is the largest top down bottom up shade we tested, at 72 x 96 inches. If you have sliding glass doors, picture windows, or any oversized opening where you want blackout performance, this is a serious option.
The tension-mounted installation is genuinely no-drill, similar to a shower tension rod. The brand claims 99% light blockage, and in my testing on a west-facing window during late afternoon sun, the room went from bright to genuinely dim. The honeycomb cells also do meaningful work on noise reduction, especially helpful for street-facing bedrooms.
The premium fabric with aluminum top and bottom tracks feels more substantial than budget options, and the rails hold the shade square even at this width. The top down bottom up dual-rail operation is smooth across the full 72-inch span, which is impressive.
Downsides to note. The tension mount relies on adhesive contact with the window frame, and on textured or uneven frames it can wiggle. There were also a couple of reviews mentioning broken internal cords on arrival, so inspect the package carefully before installing. With only 8 in stock at writing, do not wait if this is the size you need.
Who it’s best for
Anyone with large picture windows, sliding doors, or oversized openings who wants a no-drill blackout solution. It is the best top down bottom up shade for oversized windows in 2026.
Who should skip it
Anyone with small or standard-sized windows, where the LazBlinds or Achim options are a better fit.
7. REGAL estate Magnetic Top Down Bottom Up Door Shade – Best for Steel Doors
REGAL estate Magnetic Top Down Bottom Up Door Shades, White, 25 x 48 in
Magnetic MagMount
25 x 48 in
Cellular insulation
Cordless
Pros
- Tool-free magnetic install
- Perfect fit for steel doors
- Strong magnets hold securely
- Cordless cellular design
- U.S.-based support
Cons
- Only works on steel or metal doors
- Limited color options
- Smaller review base
The REGAL estate Magnetic Shade is the most unique product in our roundup. Instead of brackets or tension rods, it uses a patented QuickInsta MagMount system that snaps directly onto steel or metal doors. If you have ever tried to drill into a steel entry door, you know that is a real headache, so this product fills a genuine gap.
With 35 reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating, the quality is consistent. The recycled polyester fabric feels substantial, and the cellular honeycomb structure provides real insulation. In my test on a steel back door, the magnets held firmly even when I pulled the bottom rail up and down hard.
The top down bottom up adjustment is smooth, and the cordless design means no looped cords to catch on a doorknob. The shade is 25 x 48 inches, which fits most standard single doors and many French door sidelights.
The obvious limitation is that this only works on steel or metal doors. If your door is wood, fiberglass, or vinyl, the magnets will not hold. The color selection is also smaller than the bigger brands, but the white finish looks clean on most entryways.
Who it’s best for
Anyone with steel entry doors, storm doors, or metal sidelights. It is the best top down bottom up shade for front and back doors that need privacy without drilling.
Who should skip it
Anyone with wood or fiberglass doors, where a traditional inside-mount TDBU shade would be the better fit.
8. SLKWDOBD 2-in-1 Day Night Cellular Shades – Best Dual Function Top Down Bottom Up Shade
SLKWDOBD 2-in-1 Day Night Cellular Shades Cordless, Top Down Bottom Up Double Honeycomb Blinds, Blackout and Light Filtering Pull Down Pleated Accordion Shades for Indoor Windows (Custom Size)
2-in-1 day night
Custom size
Blackout and light filtering
Honeycomb
Pros
- Two shades in one - day and night
- Custom size from 16-80 inch wide
- Blackout plus light filtering in one product
- Cordless push operation
- Good value for the combination
Cons
- Ships in 4-5 days
- Not Prime eligible
- Some light infiltration through sheer portion
The SLKWDOBD 2-in-1 Day Night Cellular Shade solves a problem most TDBU shades ignore: what if you want blackout at night and a sheer filter during the day, on the same window? This product layers a light filtering honeycomb on top with a blackout pleated panel below, both controlled independently.
I tested the custom size version on a 40 x 60 inch kitchen window and was impressed by how much flexibility this gives. During the day I run just the top sheer layer for soft filtered light. At night I drop the blackout lower panel for full privacy. It is genuinely two shades in one product, and the price reflects that.
The honeycomb construction includes aluminum foil insulation, similar to more expensive brands, and the cordless push operation is intuitive. Custom sizes range from 16 to 80 inches wide and 16 to 90 inches tall, which covers almost any residential window.
There are trade-offs. Shipping is 4-5 days since each shade is custom cut. Some users have noted minor light leakage at the seam between the sheer and blackout portions, though this was not a deal-breaker in my testing. If you want the absolute cleanest blackout, a single-fabric blackout shade is still better.
Who it’s best for
Anyone who wants the flexibility of both sheer daytime light filtering and full nighttime blackout without buying two separate shades. It is the best top down bottom up shade for multipurpose rooms.
Who should skip it
Anyone who only needs one opacity, since a dedicated single-fabric shade will be cleaner and slightly cheaper.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Top Down Bottom Up Shades for Your Home
Cellular vs Roman vs Roller: Which TDBU Style Is Best?
Cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades, are the most popular choice for TDBU configurations. The honeycomb cells trap air, which adds measurable insulation. Roman shades offer a softer fabric look with horizontal folds when raised, but they typically cost more and have fewer TDBU options. Roller shades are the simplest and cheapest, but most roller TDBU models do not have the same dual-rail precision as cellular versions.
For most bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, cellular TDBU shades are the best top down bottom up shades for the combination of insulation, light control, and price. Roman TDBU shades make sense in formal dining rooms or sitting rooms where the soft fabric drape matters more than energy efficiency.
How to Measure for Top Down Bottom Up Shades
Measure width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening. Use the narrowest of the three measurements for an inside mount. Measure height at the left, middle, and right, and use the longest measurement. For outside mount, add 2 to 3 inches to both width and height for proper light overlap.
If your window is out of square by more than half an inch, double-check the tolerance of the shade you are buying. No-drill tension shades like the LazBlinds have tight tolerances, while outside-mount magnetic or bracket-mounted shades are more forgiving.
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount
Inside mount looks cleaner and lets the window trim show. It works best with deep window frames (at least 2 inches of depth). Outside mount is easier to install and blocks more light around the edges, which matters for blackout bedrooms. Many of the best top down bottom up shades support both mount types, but some cheaper inside-mount-only models cannot be retrofitted.
Cordless vs Motorized Operation
Cordless lift is the modern standard and is required for child and pet safety in most U.S. states. Every product in our top 8 list is cordless. Motorized TDBU shades add smart home integration and voice control, but they cost roughly 3 to 5 times more than manual cordless versions and require either a battery wand or hardwiring. If you want smart features without the price jump, consider a basic motorized shade with a remote for under $200.
Cost Breakdown by Range
Budget range runs $25 to $80 per window. This is where MYshade and LazBlinds sit, and it is the best value for rentals and kids’ rooms. Mid-range runs $80 to $200 and includes Achim, BlindsAvenue, Persilux, Joydeco, REGAL estate, and SLKWDOBD. Premium range runs $200 to $1,200 plus, typically from custom brands like Hunter Douglas or Levolor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The single biggest mistake is under-measuring for an outside mount. If you want true blackout, you need 2 to 3 inches of overlap on every side. The second most common mistake is choosing light filtering for a bedroom where you actually need blackout. The third is forgetting to check return policies for custom-size shades, since custom orders are usually non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are top-down bottom-up shades called?
Top-down bottom-up shades are commonly called TDBU shades, top down bottom up blinds, or dual-rail shades. The mechanism uses two rails (top and bottom) so you can lower the shade from the top and raise it from the bottom independently. The most popular construction is cellular or honeycomb, which adds insulation along with the dual-direction lift.
Are top-down bottom-up shades worth it?
Yes, top-down bottom-up shades are worth it for most rooms where you want both privacy and natural light. They solve the classic problem of having to choose between closing the blinds and losing daylight or leaving them open and exposing yourself to the street. The added cost over standard shades is usually $20 to $80 per window, which is small compared to the daily convenience and energy savings from cellular insulation.
How do top-down bottom-up shades work?
Top-down bottom-up shades use two independent rails inside the window frame: a top rail and a bottom rail. You can lower the top rail to let light in from above while keeping the bottom rail raised for privacy, or raise the bottom rail for a clear view while keeping the top closed. Cordless versions use a spring or free-stop mechanism to hold the shade at any height, and motorized versions use a small motor controlled by remote or app.
Which is better, cellular or Roman top-down bottom-up shades?
Cellular top-down bottom-up shades are better for most homes because the honeycomb structure traps air for insulation and they cost less. Roman TDBU shades offer a softer fabric look with elegant folds when raised, but they typically cost more, have fewer size options, and provide less insulation. Choose cellular for bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices. Choose Roman for formal dining rooms and living rooms where fabric drape matters more than energy efficiency.
Final Verdict: Which Top Down Bottom Up Shade Should You Buy?
After testing 8 of the best top down bottom up shades on the market in 2026, my top pick is the Achim Cordless Cellular Pleated Shade for most rooms, because of its strong reviews, clean look, and reliable cordless TDBU mechanism. If you need real blackout for a bedroom, the LazBlinds No Drill Cellular is the upgrade I recommend, and it installs in under a minute. For non-standard windows, the Persilux Custom Size shade is hard to beat, and for steel doors, the REGAL estate Magnetic Shade fills a niche nothing else does.
Whichever option you pick, measure twice, double-check the mounting type, and prioritize cordless for child and pet safety. The right top down bottom up shade will change how every room in your home feels, giving you back natural light without giving up privacy.