
Where the Name "Cellular Shades" Comes From
A cellular shade is made from two or more layers of pleated fabric joined together to form hollow pockets. Those pockets are called cells. Because the cells trap a layer of air at the window, the name "cellular" points to how the shade is built and why it's known for insulation.
Where the Name "Honeycomb Shades" Comes From
Look at the shade from the end and the cells form a stacked, hexagon-like pattern that resembles a honeycomb. The name caught on because it's easy to picture, so many homeowners know the product as honeycomb shades or honeycomb blinds, even though it's the same shade.
Other Names You'll See
When you shop, you may also see these terms. They all refer to the same type of shade, sometimes with a detail added:
- Cell shades: a shortened form of cellular shades.
- Honeycomb blinds or cellular blinds: common everyday names. Technically they're shades, because they raise and lower as one piece of fabric instead of tilting slats like blinds.
- Single cell, double cell or cell-in-a-cell shades: the same product, named by how many layers of cells it has. See single vs. double cell shades.
- 3/8", 9/16" or 3/4" cell shades: the same product, named by the size of each cell or pleat. See cellular shade sizes explained.
What Isn't the Same: Pleated Shades
Pleated shades are the one name that often gets confused with cellular shades. They have a similar folded look, but a pleated shade is a single layer of fabric with no air cells, so it doesn't insulate the same way. Compare the two in cellular shades vs. pleated shades.
Learn More or Shop
New to this style? Start with what are cellular shades? When you're ready, browse our full collection of cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, custom made to fit your windows.
Cellular vs Honeycomb Shades FAQs
Is there any difference between cellular and honeycomb shades?
No. They're two names for the same window shade. "Cellular" refers to the air-filled cells in the fabric, and "honeycomb" refers to the shape those cells make. Differences you see between products come from cell size, single or double cell construction, fabric and light control, not from the name.
Are honeycomb blinds the same as honeycomb shades?
Yes. "Honeycomb blinds" is a common everyday name for honeycomb shades. Technically they're shades, because the fabric raises and lowers as one piece rather than tilting slats like a blind.
What does "cell shades" mean?
"Cell shades" is simply a shortened name for cellular shades. You'll often see it in product names, like a 9/16" cell shade or a double cell shade.
Are pleated shades the same as cellular shades?
No. Pleated shades look similar, but they're a single layer of folded fabric without air cells. Cellular (honeycomb) shades have built-in cells that trap air, which is why they insulate better.
Explore our full range of custom cellular shades to find energy-efficient window treatments that help improve comfort, privacy, and light control in your home.
For more helpful tips and detailed information, visit our cellular shades resource center where you can browse guides, comparisons, and expert advice.








