I have to agree with Willard's comments. I was an anti electric awning guy.
I would stake my manual awning down and prepare for battle. Never had an issue with the manual awning and enjoyed having a dry patio.
However I have found the convenience of the electric awning is a worthwhile feature.
I'm not as reluctant to retract the awning because it only takes a push of a button to do it. Likewise I can put it back out in an instant as well.
Push button convenience changes my whole approach. I can use awning as required. I no longer have to stake everything down securely in order to commit to leaving it.
Push button convenience means I can use it when I want as much as I want without concern for changing conditions.
Lastly the overhang of the fiver is a great space to keep outside items dry and out of the weather.
I guess I have reluctantly seen the light(benefits)of the electric awning and I sort of like it.
While I regrettably purchased my unit with the electric awning this time, I would have no issues getting an electric the next time.
Through positive experiences I have grown to like and accept my electric awning.