The glazing facade is embraced by architects, but this configuration may result in huge energy consumption. This research proposed a new double skin facade using photovoltaic (PV) blinds as a shading device (named PVB-DSF), which could realize multi-function of power generation, solar penetration reduction and flexible daylighting control. The purpose of this comparative study is to demonstrate the superb thermal performance of PVB-DSF. Experimental rig was built at hot-summer and cold-winter zone of China. The first stage comparative study was conducted to evaluate system thermal performance under the effects of ventilation modes, PV-blind angle and PV-blind spacing. The second stage study was conducted to compare thermal performance between PVB-DSF and standard DSF. A validated numerical model was used to describe standard DSF. The results suggested the operation of natural ventilation mode and indicated the evident influence of PV-blind spacing on system performance. The comparison study further demonstrated that PVB-DSF can save about 12.16% and 25.57% of energy in summer compared with conventional DSF with and without shading blinds. The insulation performance of PVB-DSF is shown by its daily average heat transfer coefficient which was as low as 2.247. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.