One of the best reasons to own a truck involves what you can haul around. However, if you do not have your items secured, there may be a reason for concern wherever you drive around. For example, if you leave your gear in the back of your pick-up overnight, your items may be stolen by the next morning. Well, no need to worry because the best Tonneau cover can help you in the long run.
Having a Tonneau cover is a mandatory piece of equipment because of the way it will help add value to your vehicle, and you will love the way it looks on top of your truck bed. So, take some time to read about the very best money can buy when it comes to a Tonneau cover.
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10 Best Tonneau Cover: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 10 Best Tonneau Covers Reviews:
1. Tyger Auto T3 Tr-Fold Truck Tonneau Cover TG-BC3C1006
Tyger Auto came up with this truck bed cover that has a United States Design Patent. This option has a dual coat of vinyl, made up of 24-ounce marine material. Additionally, aluminum coated frames make up the sturdy design. Clamps, made up of stainless steel, will make your installation a breeze. Expect great durability with this product.
When you purchase this Tonneau cover, Tyger Auto created a pre-assembled product that folds up very easily. This will give you full-bed accessibility whenever you need to get into the back of the truck.
Also, you will not have to worry about installing this product by drilling. Secure clamps under the bedrail will not need you to make any modifications. With a lifetime warranty, you should rest assured that this product will last as long as your truck. If for some reason, you need to return the Tonneau cover to Tyger Auto. You will only be charged for the shipping cost.
Highlighted Features:
- Fits perfectly for 2019 Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierra 1500s
- Cover only weighs 32 pounds
- Smooth exterior cover
- Tri-fold model
- 5.8 feet of coverage for your truck
- The installation will only take you 5 minutes
- Tension control is pre-set
2. BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Cover
The BAKFlip Tonneau Cover is one of the best hard folding Tonneau covers on the market today. This model fits flawlessly with 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Short Bed varieties that measure out at 5 feet 6 inches. With no drilling, you will not have to worry about drilling into your truck bed. Additionally, your Tonneau cover will give you some of the best security around against menaces like sun, rain, snow, dirt, and theft.
BAKFlip uses aircraft-grade material to make up these sandwich panels. With its aluminum design, this cover is quite light but will stay heavy-duty for whatever you need it for. This water-resistant product will keep your load dry in whatever weather you travel in. If you are wanting a Tonneau cover worth the money, this option could be for you.
Highlighted Features:
- Cover weighs just over 70 pounds
- Made up of scratch resistant and UV protected material
- Low-profile design
- Includes a 3-year extended warranty
- Heavy-duty latching components
- Matte Finish color
- Takes seconds to take off cover when you need to haul a taller load
3. TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover
The best Tonneau cover reviews have TruXedo models in their article. Covering a 5-foot 8-inch bed, Chevy Silverado Limited and Legacy models look great with this option. With 2014-2018 models covered by this product, you will love the roll-up technology from this Tonneau cover.
When installing this cover, the clamp-on system will take you 20 total minutes. Additionally, you will not have to worry about this cover breaking down because it has a 5-year warranty to back you up week after week.
When using your Tonneau cover clamps, you can adjust the tension controls to hold your cover down even when you are driving on the freeway. Another great feature of this cover is the double-latching system.
This will keep your cover securely attached to your vehicle. As you enjoy your cover, you will notice that the product will only stand 15-inches off the bed. You will like the way it looks and so will your neighbors. With easy installation and no drilling, you will not have to worry about any special tools to get you by.
Highlighted Features:
- Made in the United States of America
- Fabric is made up of quality grain leather
- Product only weighs 24 pounds
- The Tonneau cover comes in black
- Amazing weatherproof design
- Highly-recommended cover from a variety of automotive magazines
- Can work on GMC Sierras as well
4. Tyger Auto 6.4 T3 Tri-Fold Truck Tonneau Cover TG-BC3D1011
Tyger Auto has come up with another best hard Tonneau cover for you to enjoy. Patented in the United States of America, this dual-coated cover is a sight to behold. With vinyl of marine grade variety, an aluminum frame, and steel clamps, you will notice the sensational durability and simple installation.
The installation is very easy because of the pre-assembled design. When you need to get in the bed of the truck, you can fold the cover back to retrieve the items you are hauling. Also, you will not have to drill into your truck bed to secure your Tonneau cover.
Depending on the truck you own, small holes can be used on over-the-bedrail or under-the-bedrail beds. A lifetime warranty is a great added boost to your purchasing of this product. To assure you the warranty lives up to all its many benefits, make sure you measure the truck bed, so you have the accurate fitting. Then, Tyger Auto will gladly accept any return you have for them, only costing you shipping.
Highlighted Features:
- Tonneau cover weighs in at 31.1 pounds
- Lightweight and tear-resistant
- Weatherproofing for a heavy-duty product
- Soft, trifold option
- Perfect for Dodge Ram 1500s, 2500s, and 3500s
- Will only take you 5 minutes to install this cover
- Has pre-set tension technology
5. Rough Country Hard Tri-Fold Fits 2015-2019 F150 5.5 FT
Rough Country is another brand that makes the best Tonneau covers for F150s. This brand prides itself on the easiest of installations. No matter if you take the cover off or put it back on, the installation will only take you 5 minutes.
When your product arrives on your doorstep, the cover will come fully assembled. All you will need to add are the fastening buckles and weathers seals that you can add entirely around your cover.
As you install your Tonneau cover, you will need neither duct tape or special tools. All that is required are the quick clamps, which are patented for the greatest of efficiency. This Tonneau cover uses aluminum panels layered with black vinyl of marine grade. Additionally, this product will be protected by the lifetime warranty form Rough Country.
Highlighted Features:
- 52 pounds is all this product weighs
- Made in the country of China
- Amazing durability for the life of the product
- Recommended to anyone looking for a great product for the money paid
- The bed will stay dry no matter what weather you take your Tonneau cover in
- The cover will allow the tailgate to open
- No shift around will happen with this product
6. TruXedo Lo Pro Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
TruXedo has made another great Tonneau cover that you should consider. This best roll-up Tonneau cover needs minimal tools for an install that will only take you 5 minutes. With automatic tension control, your cover will stay tight no matter where you drive around.
Also, you will receive a lifetime warranty with this product as soon as you buy it. Even if your fabric starts to wear down, you will not have to worry because you will be covered.
One concern that many Tonneau cover buyers have is the fear of hindered gas mileage. You will not have to worry about that with this product. This design will improve your gas mileage the more that you use this Tonneau cover.
When you do use this cover, you will love the Velcro side sealing patented system that will keep your bed covered with a low-profile design. The latching system is one of the best things about this Tonneau cover. With a single latch system, you will only need one finger to open your Tonneau cover, so you can get into your truck bed.
Highlighted Features:
- Made in the United States of America
- Uses industrial strength vinyl
- Weighs just under 30 pounds
- Black exterior color
- #1 selling roll-up Tonneau cover in North America
- The cover only sits 3/4-inches off the truck bed
- You will not have any trouble with water leaks
7. Tonno Pro Tonno Fold 42-108 TRI-FOLD Truck Bed Cover
This tri-fold Tonneau cover is one of the best options in the 21st Century. Perfect for Chevy Silverados, GMC Sierra 1500s, Chevy Silverado 2500s, and GMC Siera 2500s, this cover fits beds that are 6-feet 6-inches. At 32 pounds, this cover will not wear you down. With a smooth exterior, this best Tonneau cover looks sleek and sturdy all together.
As one of the fastest bed cover brands on the market today, you should expect a classy product. In less than 10 minutes, you will be able to install this product swiftly. With no drilling, you can expect your truck to stay fresh and clean while enjoying the protection and security that you deserve.
With every Tonneau cover, here are a few things that you should expect with your purchase. First, Tonno has a detachable LED light that will attach to the cover. Secondly, you will receive a cleaner to keep your cover protecting against UV rays. Additionally, your cover will have a tailgate seal to keep wet weather away, as well as professional gloves to help you install and take down your cover with ease.
Highlighted Features:
- A pre-set tension control
- Horizontal crossbars make for a sturdy design
- The cover will come pre-assembled
- The frame is made of epoxy aluminum
- E-Z clamps keep your cover connected to the truck bed
- All the hardware you need comes with a cover purchase
- Super fast-shipping
8. MaxMate Tri-Fold Truck Bed Cover with 2002-2019 Dodge Ram 1500
You may have never heard about MaxMate before, but you will be pleasantly surprised with this next brand. As another best hard Tonneau cover, this cover also works with Dodge Rams 2500s and 3500s that do not have a Ram Box with a Fleetside bed at 6.4′.
With this brand’s United States of America patented design, you will love everything about this cover option. By using vinyl made of marine-grade and solid aluminum, this product will stay safely on your truck bed with the help of steel clamps. Easy installation may be an understatement with this brand.
Coming pre-assembled, this folding option will cover the entire bed, and will fold back to allow you full access to any part of the bed. When installing this product, you will not have to drill into your truck bed luckily.
With hardware and instructions included with your Tonneau cover, you will not need to have any major modifications to your truck. Also, with a 10-year warranty, there will be no hassle with this purchase.
However, if you do not check the right measurement, MaxMate might not be able to accept the product back because of your mishap. When returning anything to MaxMate, you will have to pay for shipping. At 32 pounds, this product will not break your back when installing. Instead, your back will be saved and your items in the truck bed will stay protected.
Highlighted Features:
- Uses automatic tension that locks in place
- No tape is needed to keep the cover down
- Super easy to fold
- Extremely waterproof and will help you save gas mileage
- Fits like a glove
- Perfect for hauling items when camping
- You will save a lot of money when purchasing this product
9. Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Cover fits Chevy/GMS Silverado/ Sierra 1500
Made in the United States of America, Gator makes some of the best hard folding Tonneau covers around. One reason why Gator products are so good is because of the customer service based in America.
You will receive some of the best support your money can buy. When installing your Gator Tonneau cover, you will not have to use any fancy tools to construct your product. In less than 10 minutes, you will have the cover ready to roll.
By having a Tonneau cover from Gator, there will be no need to worry about the elements. With sensational sealing technology, your cargo will never be covered with rain, snow, or dust.
Additionally, you will not have to fret about your vinyl ever tearing. The aluminum construction will bring about durability and added strength. With a limited lifetime warranty of 10-years, you should be good to go.
Highlighted Features:
- The cover only weighs 24.6 pounds
- Can safely go through a car wash
- Great quality for the price paid
- No moisture will get into your truck bed
- Takes on high winds with ease
- Sleek look for a Tonneau cover
- Easy-to-use videos to help you with the installation process
10. Roll-N-Lock BT220A Locking Retractable A-Series Truck Bed Cover
Another best roll-up Tonneau cover comes from Roll-N-Lock. This unique option is completely aluminum-based with a powder-coated finish. With amazing hinged technology, the seam will never be penetrated. No exposed rubber will dampen your day. A locking tailgate from your cover should be something you should come to expect from Rock-N-Lock.
You will notice how quickly your cover comes up and down. Within seconds, you will be able to use the spring drive without having to snap buckles or fold paneling. To close your cover, all you need to do is turn the lever and the cover will slide back and forth.
You can also lock the cover in place at 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, or completely closed over your truck bed. There will be no need to drill holes in your truck. Additionally, you will have easy drainage because of the aerodynamic design.
Highlighted Features:
- Made in the United States of America
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- The cover only weighs 5 total pounds
- Can roll over the tailgate when it is closed
- Comes in one color: black
- Will only take you an hour or so to install
- Amazing quality in the manufacturing
Things to Consider When Buying Tonneau Covers
One of the first things to know before buying a Tonneau cover is knowing what a Tonneau cover is in the first place. A Tonneau truck bed cover is specifically made to provide security and safety for vehicle owners. They will hide items away from thieves, as well as protect others from Mother Nature. With the best Tonneau cover, you will have a device that covers and uncovers your truck bed in a seconds notice.
Tonneau Cover Buying Reasoning
With a ton of covers on the market today for you to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming to pick just one. But, after going through this buying guide, you should be well on your way to understanding why you need a Tonneau cover. With tons of types and styles, there truly is a Tonneau cover for you. Here are some reasons as to why you need a Tonneau cover:
- Making your truck look good
- Perfect for people going on long trips with your truck
- Essential for hauling cargo to and fro
- Needs for added security and safety
- Keeps harsh weather out and your items dry and clean inside
Compatibility of Your Purchase
When it comes to trucks, many have a bed liner that either has carpet, mat, or a painted covering. As you look to purchase the right Tonneau cover for you and your lifestyle, things must work with one another. This will help you with simple installation and easy set-up. The same could be said for other vehicle accessories like truck racks, bed extenders, etc. You truly need a Tonneau cover that fits you best.
Simplicity of Installation
The best Tonneau cover reviews speak to the installation process only taking between 10 to 20 minutes. Now, some take more prep work, and that may mean longer prep time and help from another person to complete the project.
With easy clamping technology, most do not need holes drilled into the truck bed. So, if you are thinking to install your truck bed cover on your own, consider an option that will take you less than 20 minutes. However, if you would rather have extra help and have more time on your hands, buying a more intricate Tonneau cover might be your best bet.
Sealing Options for Your Tonneau Cover
Sealing options might be one of the last things on your mind, but you must figure out what will be best for your truck. The three main types include snap-down, Velcro, and low-profile.
- Snap-Down
When Tonneau covers first came on the market for people to buy, snap-down technology was all they had. Today, it is still used by a lot of companies building the best Tonneau covers. To keep the cover in place, you have to secure it in place by buttoning down or snaping the mechanism into place.
If you use this technology make sure that your snaps are adjustable if the material shrinks in cold weather or expands in the hot sun.
- Velcro
Using Velcro is one of the easiest sealing options on the market in the 21st Century. You can install or remove Velcro in a breeze, and you do not need any added channeling systems or snapping technologies.
- Low-Profile
Having a low-profile design is the last sealing system on this buying guide. While there may be other options, low-profile is one of the best. It uses a rugger tongue and sealing groove to keep the elements out of your truck bed. As you place this sealant in the aluminum channel, all you will have to do is slide it over the top of the truck.
Knowing Your Budget
No matter if you want the best retractable Tonneau cover or a hinged option, knowing what you can pay might be the most important thing for you to consider. Some only cost a few hundred dollars, while others can extend up to thousands of dollars. Depending on your budget, you can still find some amazing Tonneau covers without spending all your dough. Look for features like sturdy materials, installation ease, and much more.
Measuring Your Truck Bed
Before you purchase your best hard Tonneau cover F150, make sure you measure your truck bed to get the right size. There is nothing worse than buying a Tonneau cover that does not fit right on top of your truck bed.
First, you should be aware of the varying bed sizes. Most trucks have 2 to 3-bed sizes, and the truck beds measure out at 5.5-feet, 6.5-feet, or 8-feet. Many truck owners understand what size of truck bed they are getting, but it is good to measure up just in case.
When measuring your truck bed, it is pretty simple overall. Use a measuring tape and start at the cab side. Pull the measuring tape to the inside portion of the tailgate. Then, you should have an accurate measurement to pick the right Tonneau cover.
Types of Tonneau Covers
The types of best Tonneau covers on the market today can be a rabbit hole of possibilities, but there is no need to fret. This review/buyer’s guide has got you covered. Let’s start with hard and soft covers.
- Hard
When purchasing a hard Tonneau cover, you can expect to pay more. However, you should also expect the cover to have better features of security than you ever thought possible.
- Soft
On the other hand, soft Tonneau covers will not cost you an arm and a leg. Additionally, they are a lot more versatile than a hardcover option.
At the end of the day, neither the hard or soft cover is better than the other. It just depends on what you need and how it will work with your truck. Do not get caught up in all the details. Just work with what will be best for you.
There are an endless amount of types for you to consider, but these are the ones we will be hitting in this article. Let’s get it going with electric Tonneau covers.
- Electric
If you are willing to fork out the major bucks, an electric Tonneau cover could be yours. Depending on if you are looking for the best Tonneau cover for F150s or something different, there is no better option if you have the means to do so.
By having an electric cover, the product will work on its own without you doing any manual labor. This cover is made of the highest aluminum grade money can buy. Additionally, you will be able to open and close the cover to precisely the measurements you want. This braking system is unprecedented in the Tonneau cover world.
If you are worried about security with an electric cover, there is no reason to get agitated. There is no cover more secure than an electric cover. In a matter of seconds, you will be able to retract or detract your cover depending on what you need. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,800 up to $2,500 for this type of Tonneau cover.
The best retractable Tonneau cover could be your very best friend. With the push of a button, the rigid construction will easily retract into a canister near the cab of your truck. Think of this option as the 3 or 4-course meal.
- Tri-Fold
A tri-fold Tonneau cover might be one of the most popular options for truck drivers nowadays. By flipping multiple panels, canvas or vinyl can be stretched over a metal frame to cover a truck bed. Quick access is what you can expect from this option.
Some tri-folds give you full access to your truck bed by flipping up to the rear windows, while others will still cover a portion of your truck bed. Make sure you understand the difference during purchase. Lastly, you may want to drive with your tri-fold cover open. If this is the case, make sure your product comes with the very best straps. Overall, these options are quite inexpensive, but will still last for years and years.
- Roll-Up
A roll-up cover might be right for you and your lifestyle. They open and close by rolling to the tailgate from the rear portion of the truck’s cab. These are super lightweight options that will not weigh down your truck in the slightest.
Depending on your preference, you can roll the cover as much as you would like, or roll it up for as much bed access as you might need. This is the best option for someone who does not have a lot of money to spend but still wants a stylish Tonneau cover option. Security is not a priority for someone wanting a roll-option alternative.
- Hinged
Having a hinged cover might be just right for you. They connect near the cab and open by tilting the cover away from the tailgate itself. This variety is made from metal and is lined with vinyl or canvas. As a one-piece option, you will not have to pay a lot for this product, and it also will provide you added security for the items in your truck bed.
- Hinged & Roll-Up
If you like roll-up and hinged covers, why not think about getting a hinged & roll-up Tonneau cover. By lifting the cover away from the tailgate, you will have the quickest of access to the items in your truck bed. It will roll away to the rear window of your cab, allowing you the fullest of access. This is perfect for people who are not as concerned with security but want the convenience of the utmost degree.
Advantages of Tonneau Covers
We will not be able to hit all the advantages that Tonneau cover could bring to your life, but let us talk about a few, shall we? Let us get this party started with an improvement in fuel efficiency.
Many people overlook the fact that having an uncovered truck bed will cause them to waste more gas costing them a lot more money in the process. Think of your truck bed as a large tub. Air will be able to move freely holding down your truck in the process. This airflow creates an unwanted drag. On the other hand, if you do have the best Tonneau cover, you will save an estimated 10% on fuel efficiency, which adds up month after month.
Added safety comes from owning a Tonneau cover, too. Theft is not the only thing you should be worried about when it comes to owning your truck, but the weather can impact your vehicle as well. Having a hard or soft top can help you a ton in this department.
The organization of your truck bed might be overlooked as well when it comes to Tonneau covers. If a gust of wind hits an open truck bed, you may lose a lot of your precious items in the process. But, if you have a great cover, you will have peace of mind wherever you roam to and from.
Lastly, did you know your truck will have to sell for more if you have a Tonneau cover? This might seem ludicrous, but it is true. A cover helps keep the wear and tear away from your truck bed and buyers will be delighted with your vehicle because of your due diligence. If you keep your truck well-protected with the help of a cover, who knows? You may be more than you ever thought possible.
Installation of Tonneau Covers
The first thing you need to know about installing a Tonneau cover is that you are not alone in the process. Many people think they are out to dry when it comes to a new product, but many of the top brands have great videos to walk you through step by step. Additionally, there are great customer service hotlines to get you going as well.
Still, most Tonneau covers are made to be stress-free and are very easy to put together. All will come with installation instructions, but do know that they will vary based upon the make and model of your truck.
Maintenance of Tonneau Covers
Most Tonneau covers need little to no maintenance. The only thing that will help your Tonneau cover last and last is by cleaning it with the appropriate product. Other varieties may need more things to help maintain your product, but make sure to read the owner’s manual to know exactly what you might need.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Tonneau Covers
Q1: How often do most people need access to cargo in the back of their truck?
If you are asking this same question, it means you still have some things to consider. First, this depends on you and your lifestyle. Why do you have a truck? What do you use it for? You may own a truck because you own your own construction company. If this is the case, you will be using your Tonneau cover daily. With a workday of 8 hours minimum, you may need to get into the back of your truck often. Make sure you have a Tonneau cover that is easy to access materials and tools.
On the other hand, you may have a truck because you like the way it rides, but you do not use your truck bed very much. Sure, you help friends move every so often, but you are not remodeling your home or anything. If this is the case, buying a Tonneau cover that is sturdy enough to help you with fuel efficiency, but access is not a priority.
Or you may be the kind of person that uses your truck bed every week. You surely want accessibility, but security might not be a bad option either, especially if you are leaving items in the back of your truck. If you leave your truck at any time with items in the back, make sure you can lock that stuff up.
Whatever you decide, pick a Tonneau cover that matches your lifestyle. Nothing is worse than getting a cover that does not jive with who you are. Do your homework and you will reap the benefits.
Q2: Do Tonneau covers truly stop thieves in their tracks?
By owning an option like the best hard Tonneau cover for F150s, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Added protection comes from just owning a cover. If a criminal sees something they want, they will try to take it. However, if you have a Tonneau cover, they will not be able to see anything you have. Additionally, if you have a lock on your tailgate, it will be very difficult for a criminal to break in without being seen.
Now, a soft cover is not the greatest with security because someone could use a knife to break into your truck bed, so a harder option might be the best alternative if this is a worry for you. Having a Tonneau cover with an electromagnetic locking mechanism would not hurt either.
Q3: Can I use other accessories with a Tonneau cover?
Unfortunately, a lot of Tonneau covers are not super versatile when it comes to adding accessories. Some do allow modifications like bike racks, bed extenders, crossbars, etc. But, it varies from brand to brand. A good rule of thumb would be to check with the brand of Tonneau cover you are thinking of buying. Do not do this after you have bought the cover because you might be let down if accessories can’t be added.
Q4: How long does a Tonneau cover last?
This varies based upon brand and type, but many options are UV protected, so the sun will not wear them down. Additionally, material like vinyl can handle extremely cold weather down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. A little soap and water can go a long way to keep your Tonneau cover lasting as long as you need it to.
Q5: Will paint get scratched due to a Tonneau cover?
To keep your truck’s paint from getting scratched, follow the owner’s manual to help you install the cover correctly. This way, you will not have any funny business during installation, and your paint will stay as good as new. Many Tonneau covers have padded parts on areas that have been known to scratch paint. This may be something for you to investigate further when finding the best Tonneau for you.
Final Verdict
The best Tonneau cover can only be measured by one person and one person alone. That person is you! It may seem like a daunting task, one that could take you days and months to figure out. But, there is no need to sweat this because you can handle this. Though there is a lot to sift through, understand that you have all the resources in the world to help you along.
With this review/buyer’s guide, you now have the tools to justify a smart purchase for your truck. Think through the things you need in a Tonneau cover. What are all the ways you use your vehicle? Then, sort through the many types, makes, and models, while keeping your budget in the back of your mind.
This way, you will make an educated decision for all the world to see. Then, you will see the many benefits firsthand that a Tonneau cover can do for you. Whether you hit the city roads, country roads, or dirt trails, happy trails to you. Enjoy the process as you find the best Tonneau cover to fit into your life.