I think it also depends on how often you are going to use an awning. If you are going to use it very frequently then it's probably worth paying a bit more for.
There are other consideration: what type of poles do you want? The steel ones are heavier but are probably more substantial. Aluminium are very light but they say are not as substantial. Fibre poles are somewhere in between.
Look at the pegging points. It's all personal preference but Dorema have ladders which just clip over a little plastic 'T' shaped 'thing'. We got fed up of having to put the ladders back on the 'T''s every time we put up the awning - they would never stay on. A Eurovent awning has adjustable straps and you attach a (substantial) rubber 'band' to the end. Seems much more sensible, but, it has been known for the straps to come off.
Some awnings have roll up panels, some you can zip right out. (There are less of the former about these days). If the panels zip out, it is much easier to manage the roof part of the 'canvas' and then zip in the panels when you have the 'roof' up.
Consider how the awning poles attach to the side of the van. Most modern awnings now have an extra piece that looks a bit like the section that fits in the awning rail. This is to attach the retainer devices for the poles. Some are better (safer?) than others. I think the Dorema 'quicklok' system and the Isabella equivalent are good. The Eurovent sysyen seems more open and less substantial.
Some awnings have integrated storm straps, others don't. Most full awnings will allow you to add an annex these days, but you will need to check.
Most awnings come out from the van 2 1/2 metres, but you can get those that are 3 metres. Some are even larger and have unusual shapes. Generally the larger and more complicated an awning looks, the more difficult it is to put up!
Here's hoping that these few ideas might be helpful when you speak to a sales person. If you buy off the internet, I would always go and have a look at one 'in the flesh', so to speak, before making that internet purchase.
Best of luck.
------------- David
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