I bought the PElla wood vinyl-clad. I've had these before for at least 6 years, and was satisfied with them. There are only a few cosmetic differences between Pellla's highest series (Architect?) and the next one down (which is also wood vinyl clad), but the cost difference can be substantial. I recently bought some new Pella wood vinyl-clad from Lowes. Lowes carries the next one down from the top, and is cheaper than a regular Pella store. also, if you can get a stock size, that will be cheaper still.

Donald, while I'd agree that full frame removal installations have multiple circumstances where they would be the preferred option, it would be categorically incorrect to state that "pocket installations do not address any issues that may have resulted from the previous windows". Most homeowners are replacing their windows for energy efficiency, functionality, comfort, aesthetics, less maintenance, improved home value, etc. Pocket installs check all of those boxes and save money to boot. Now if the existing frames have substantial rot, new interior wood work is needed/desired, there is existing water infiltration, and/or the existing units are relatively narrow to the point that losing another 1/2" or so of glass per side would be noticeable (and so much so to justify hundreds more per window), then full frames are a very worthy consideration in those cases. I don't mean to be argumentative in the least, but both installation styles are very viable depending on circumstances, and each has some pros and cons. To the point of the thread, I'd agree with the consensus that Marvin is the superior option here.

The biggest down side to the inserts is that you will lose a little daylight. Something around 1-1/2 inches in width. As for the appearance, if installed properly, you won't notice the frame in frame look. All of the units you mention have lots of options, including grille options, so you should have no problem getting what you want. Installation costs can vary, depending on the work that will need to be done. Be sure to inspect all of the existing frames throughly for water damage, or rot. If you have rot, the problem should be addressed before changing the windows. Pricing is tough to estimate, without knowing the options you want, where in the country you are, etc. I would get at least 3 quotes from local remodelers for installation. Their price should include insulating the weight pockets. The Andersen unit comes with a complete install kit, which is a nice plus. It also offers 3 different sill angles for the same price, while the others charge for optional sill angles. I would look at all 3, and get pricing from all of them. That way, you can make the best choice for your home.

Karateguy, I have lived in five states encompassing three different USA zones over thirty years. I have lived in 30 year old homes and new construction in humid, dry, hot and snowy weather. These Pella windows failed within five years of the home built. The previous home owner had replaced four doors and several sashes. The home inspection did not reveal that all the sashes were rotted. When I opened a window in the middle of a snow storm the sash fell out. I used a stocking to pull the window shut and then stuffed the window with insulation until the new window was ordered. I agree that windows do not last decades but 14 years for an entire home to replace 72 windows is a crime. These Pella windows have a seam that should have been under the side folds. I sold a home in another adjoining state that was also 14 years old. The double hung vinyl windows were in great shape . There was no mold , cracks or wood rot whereas the pella made windows are rotted. Design and construction were the obvious reasons for the need to replace. It did not help that Pella did zilch, nada, rien, zip to help . I had to stuff a french door for the winter cause Pella would not answer any calls in needing a new kerf designed weather stripping. "Windows and doors" spent hours searching for a product that would help my replacement weather strip.Windows and Doors spent two hours searching for a replacement piece that cost about 20 dollars whereas Pella stayed mute. When Pella installed a new french door for the homeowner they reused the old weather stripping and nailed it into the door. A Pella rep installed the new french door nailing the weather stripping . Sounds like a grand solution to a simple fix. I am not a Pella fan. I am dumpster diving tomorrow and submitting a class action complaint. I do not expect a cent. I will post my wonderful 14 year old Pella windows so others can see their product and read how well they treat their customers. I do find that products are made differently due to plant location. I had replaced double hung windows in a NJ home years ago and forgot to order one bathroom window. I paid 200 dollars more for that one single window. It is cheaper to buy in bulk.