The utility of the tonneau of your truck drops sharply if you don’t own a tonneau cover, so find out the best tonneau covers your truck deserves.
You might be thinking that why doesn’t a truck come with a tonneau cover? Well, that was a question in my mind too when I bought a 2014 Ford F-150, but when I searched for the options, the question had no more meaning to me.
There are so many options, all better than the others in some aspect, I thanked the truck manufacturer for not providing one as that would have limited my search. Moreover, I would have settled with the one that came with the truck.
Therefore tonneau cover is a must-have item for all the truck owners out there. It would be hard for me to explain in words the trouble I had to go through the first time I was looking for a tonneau cover.
This is the motivation behind writing this article so that none of you had to go through the same troubles that I had faced.
I’ve written everything you need to know to range from the factors to look out for and the types of tonneau covers and the best tonneau covers that you can find for your truck.
It is highly recommended that you go through this article at least once before you make up your mind for any kind of tonneau cover, and I’m saying that with an experience of around five years.
Factors To Look Out Before Buying The Best Tonneau Covers
Just so you don’t have to go through all the hassle which I went through the first time I was looking for a tonneau cover, I’ve written everything in this article.
There are several things to outlook starting from the exterior to the interior construction of a tonneau cover.
Firstly, you should make sure which tonneau cover will fit your truck because not every cover available in the market will be compatible with your truck.
Secondly, it depends on your use of the tonneau bed. If you need to access the full bed while placing or removing the cargo then look for the one which will give you the full access. There are tonneau covers that won’t curl up to provide you the full bed access.
Thirdly, you should definitely go for a weather-resistant tonneau cover especially if you use your truck for off-roading. Moreover, people living in snowy areas should also opt for this kind of tonneau cover.
Fourth, if you normally place sharp tools and similar things in the tonneau bed of your truck then the only option you should go with is the hard tonneau cover. These covers are tear-resistant covers and are much more durable than soft ones.
Lastly, easy-of-installation and removal is another factor that is worth considering. Especially, some tonneau covers require you to drill a couple of holes into the truck’s body. These holes may damage your truck and degrade its value.
- Therefore, all the tonneau covers that we have listed in our list of the best tonneau covers, can be easily mounted without the use of a drill.
Moreover, soft, roll-up type tonneau covers are the most affordable options while hard, retractable ones are the most expensive ones. So, look out for your budget before setting eyes on any kind of tonneau cover.
Various Types Of Best Tonneau Covers You Will Find
For all the truck owners out there who are looking for a tonneau cover for the first time, it might come as a surprise that there are several types of covers in the market.
The tonneau covers are divided on the base of the outer fabric and the way it may be curled up on the tonneau bed.
Based on the type of fabric, the following are the two types of tonneau covers you can find.
Soft Tonneau Cover
This type has a softer outer fabric, normally made up of layers of foam coated with vinyl. Hence, it has an overall thicker, softer, and smoother fabric.
- This kind of cover is prone to tearing or scratches, however, is an affordable option.
Hard Tonneau Cover
The second type of tonneau cover based on the type of fabric is the hard one. They normally have a dual-sided vinyl coating and are much more resilient than their counterparts.
- They are heavier, tougher, tear-resistant tonneau covers that’ll cost a bit higher than the soft tonneau covers.
As far as the categorization based on the type of folding is concerned, there are 3 different types, as given below.
Roll-up Tonneau Cover
These tonneau covers don’t have any stiff frame under them. Their outer frame is attached with the tonneau sides, whereas the inner portion may be rolled up to open the cover.
- They have elastic strings that are clamped or hinged to keep the cover in the closed form, and as soon you release the hinges, the cover curls up.
Folding Tonneau Cover
These tonneau covers have a solid stiff frame to which the fabric is attached. This frame is capable of being folded either fully or sometimes up to a certain portion.
- You have to fold the cover on your own and depending on the manufacturing you’ll have the option for 3 or sometimes more foldings.
Retractable Tonneau Cover
This tonneau cover is similar to the folding type, with the only difference in the mechanism for folding. You don’t need to manually fold the cover, as spring-loaded mechanisms are there to do it for you.
- You just need to release the clamps and straps, and the cover will automatically retract.
List Of The Best Tonneau Covers We Have Reviewed
- Tyger Auto T3 – A Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
- BAK BAKFlip MX4 448130 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
- BAK BAKFlip MX4 448329 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
- Roll N Lock A-Series – A Tough Tonneau Cover
- Gator ETX – Tri-Folding Tonneau Cover
- Lund Genesis – Tri-Folding Tonneau Cover
- Tonno Pro 42-200 – A Convenient Tonneau Cover
- Extang 44405 – Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
- Undercover Flex FX21002 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Tyger Auto T3 – A Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Tyger Auto T3
- Completely US-based manufacturing, customer support, and patented design.
- Marine-grade vinyl coating along with heavy-duty aluminum powder-coated frames.
- The stainless steel rods along with the clamps provide both security and durability.
- While folded it provides 100% access to the bed for easy luggage placement and removal.
- Hassle-free installation without using any major tool. Therefore, installation can easily be done by simply following the instruction manual.
- Softback gives a smooth and flexible outlook to this tonneau cover. Moreover, it reduces the overall cost, making it affordable as compared to the Hard Tri-Fold tonneau covers.
- Fits perfectly with the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra 1500 Classic as well as Legacy Models.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Tyger
Model Number: TG-BC3C1006
Weight: 32 pounds
Dimensions: 68.87 x 24.85 x 2.13 inches
Fit: 2014-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500
Bed Size: 5’8”
Type: Folding
Pros
- US Patented Design
- Durable
- No-Drilling installation
- Dual-Coated Vinyle Exterior
- Weathertight Seal
Cons
- Old Design
Tyger Auto T3 Review
The highest user-rated tonneau cover on our list.
This tonneau cover is for serious people because it has one of the strongest aluminum frames that has been dual-coated with 24oz marine-grade vinyl. Moreover, the steel clamps that accompany allows the user to easily install it, in addition to providing durability.
- For the vehicles having under-the-bedrail Bedliner, you won’t have to use any tool for the installation.
However, for over-the-bedrail Bedliner vehicles, only small holes are required at the right spots. You can easily figure that out by going through the installation manual that comes with this tonneau cover.
Furthermore, the horizontal crossbars come pre-assembled that offer support in the middle areas of this soft tri-fold tonneau cover, and additionally, fold up to provide 100% access to the bed.
To protect your bed base and the luggage on it from harsh weather and dust, a weather seal will also be provided. You just need to install it as per the instructions given in the instruction manual.
Hence, no matter what kind of roads and areas you are in, the perfect weather seal will protect your valuables at all times.
To add another plus to this reliable tonneau cover from Tyger, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. So, you don’t have to worry about anything now regarding the quality, durability, and strength of this tonneau cover.
BAK BAKFlip MX4 448130 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the BAK BAKFlip MX4 448130
- Perfectly fits the 2019-21 GM Silverado, Sierra 1500, however, it won’t fit the Carbon Pro edition.
- Highly durable aluminum frame, hardcover with tri-folding capability that can provide either partial or full access to the bed.
- Perfectly safe against weather conditions, dust, and smoke.
- Mark/scratch-resistant and protects the tonneau bed from UV damage as well.
- Can be opened from either side of the vehicle, and furthermore doesn’t obstruct the 3rd brake light and no dependency on the tail-gate position for closing or opening.
- This purely US-made tonneau cover comes with a 5-year warranty, and if the need arises purely US-based customer support will be there to help you out.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: BAK
Model Number: 448130
Weight: 71 pounds
Dimensions: 68 x 23 x 8 inches
Fit: 2019-21 GM Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500
Bed Size: 5’10”
Type: Folding
Pros
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Panels
- Heavy Duty Durable
- Can handle up to 400 lbs
- Doesn’t Obstruct Third Brake Light
Cons
- Price
BAK BAKFlip MX4 448130 Review
The latest design tonneau cover with extra durability.
When they say they got your BAK, they really mean it. The MX4 448130 tonneau cover is a hard tri-folding cover that can easily withstand a weight of 400 lbs. So, you can literally jump on it and nothing will happen.
Not only on the outside but also on the inside this tonneau cover is the most durable one that you can find on our list. All thanks to the durable aluminum panel and a resilient, low-profile structure.
You can easily unfold this tonneau cover completely to access the complete bed floor without using any tool and in just seconds. Thanks to automatically latching clamps you can partially open the cover as well if you don’t need to access the complete bed floor.
Without obstructing the 3rd brake light, this tonneau cover allows you to close the tailgate with the cover open or closed. Moreover, you can open this cover from either side of the vehicle providing ease of use.
Lastly, the most notable feature of this tonneau cover is its sleek and stylish matte finish, complemented with a hard surface. The finish is scratch and mark resistant and additionally, protects your luggage from UV damage. The perfect sealing capability frees you of the worries of rain, dust, smoke creeping into the tonneau bed.
BAK BAKFlip MX4 448329 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the BAK BAKFlip MX4 448329
- Perfectly fits specifically the 2015-18 Ford F150 truck.
- Highly durable, aircraft-grade aluminum frame, hardcover with tri-folding capability that can provide either partial or full access to the bed.
- Perfectly safe against rain, snow, dirt, US damage, and even theft.
- Mark/scratch-resistant and protects the tonneau bed from UV damage as well.
- Can be opened from either side of the vehicle, and doesn’t obstruct the 3rd brake light and no dependency on the tail-gate position for closing or opening.
- This purely US-made tonneau cover comes with a 5-year warranty, and if the need arises purely US-based customer support will be there to help you out.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: BAK
Model Number: 448329
Weight: 71 pounds
Dimensions: 68 x 23 x 8.5 inches
Fit: 2015-18 Ford F-150
Bed Size: 5’7”
Type: Folding
Pros
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Panels
- Heavy Duty Durable
- Can handle up to 400 lbs
- Doesn’t Obstruct Third Brake Light
Cons
- Price
BAK BAKFlip MX4 448329 Review
A perfect accessory for your Ford F150.
This tonneau cover is exactly the same as MX4 448130, with a bit of modification so that it can perfectly fit your Ford F150 model ranging from 2015 to 2018.
The MX4 448329 tonneau cover is also a hard tri-folding cover that can easily withstand an evenly distributed weight of 400 lbs. So, you don’t have to worry about the frame being bending due to some heavy impact on the back.
Not only on the outside but also on the inside this tonneau cover is the most durable one that you can find on our list. All thanks to the aircraft-grade aluminum panel and a resilient, low-profile structure.
You can easily unfold this tonneau cover completely to access the complete bed floor without using any tool and in just seconds. Thanks to automatically latching clamps you can partially open the cover as well if you don’t need to access the complete bed floor.
Without obstructing the 3rd brake light, this tonneau cover allows you to close the tailgate with the cover open or close. Moreover, you can open this cover from either side of the vehicle providing ease of use.
Lastly, the most notable feature of this tonneau cover is its sleek and stylish matte finish, complemented with a hard surface. The finish is scratch and mark resistant and additionally, protects your luggage from UV damage. The perfect sealing capability frees you of the worries of raining, dust, smoke creeping into the tonneau bed.
Roll N Lock A-Series – A Tough Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Roll N Lock A-Series
- This tonneau cover fits perfectly on a wide range of trucks. It is suitable for 2014-19 Limited, Legacy GM, Chevy Silverado, and Sierra trucks.
- You’ll get excellent protection against possible theft, rain, snow, dust, UV damage, and scratches.
- Retraction is not an issue with a torsion spring and patented contoured hinges. The tonneau cover can be fully retracted effortlessly and without any friction.
- The canister is the most compact one, preserving the maximum space in the tonneau bed of your truck as compared to other tonneau covers available in the market.
- The compact and easy installation instructions are enough to install this tonneau cover without any tool and that too in under 10 minutes.
- It is backed by a 3-year guarantee and total US-based customer support.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Rock-N-Lock
Model Number: BT220A
Weight: 5 pounds
Dimensions: 74 x 13 x 12.5 inches
Fit: 2014-19 GM, Chevy Silverado, Sierra
Bed Size: 5’9”
Type: Retractable
Pros
- Fits a Wide Range Trucks
- Effortless Retraction
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons
- Simple Design
Roll N Lock A-Series Review
The effortless retraction of the tonneau cover is unmatched by any other.
This Hard Retractable tonneau cover from Rock N Lock is definitely the one worth considering if you are looking for a tonneau cover. It fits perfectly to 2014-19 Limited, Legacy GM, Chevy Silverado, and Sierra, hence having a large market.
A durable powder-coated, completely aluminum frame strengthens the whole structure along with a high-grade vinyl coating that provides scratch resistance and protection against UV damage.
The ease of operation is also there, thanks to a torsion spring hidden in a 3-inch aluminum case in addition to specially designed hinges for effortless and frictionless rotation.
Moreover, installation requires no tool as you can easily install it using the patented, clamp-on design. Additionally, it features the most compact outer lining providing you with the largest space in your truck’s tonneau.
In addition to all these benefits, this tonneau cover is backed by US-based customer support and a 3-year guarantee.
Although this guarantee is lesser than other tonneau covers in our list of the best tonneau covers, user ratings and feedback reveal that you won’t have any problem for a much longer period.
Gator ETX – Tri-Folding Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Gator ETX
- Fits perfectly with any Classic Dodge Ram from model 2009 to 2020.
- The highly durable aluminum frame along with industrial-grade vinyl and perfect sealing against snow, dust, and rain.
- Easy-to-use quick latch handles allow you to easily fold the cover-up to the two-third portion.
- Installation is simple and straightforward and doesn’t need any tool.
- A universal tailgate seal blocks any kind of debris or dust to enter the tonneau bed.
- Low-profile, sleek, and matte-finished design that is custom-tuned to fit perfectly on your truck.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Gator Covers
Model Number: 59201
Weight: 24.9 pounds
Dimensions: 64 x 20 x 8 inches
Fit: 2009-20 Classic Dodge Ram 1500-3500
Bed Size: 5’7”
Type: Folding
Pros
- No-Tool Install Design
- Heavy-duty Aluminum Frame
- Lightweight
- Simple Operation
- Sleek and Durable Design
Cons
- Nothing
Gator ETX Review
A perfect accessory for your Classic Dodge Ram.
If you are looking for a tonneau cover for your Classic Dodge Ram of any model from 2009 to 2020, then Gator ETX should be the one to go for.
It will take you under 10 minutes to install this tonneau cover on your own without using any tool. You just need to follow the simple instructions given in the instruction manual and that’s it.
Although it is soft on the outside it is tough on the inside. The heavy-duty aluminum frame and industrial-grade vinyl make this tonneau cover reasonably durable.
Moreover, the sealing will keep the tonneau bed safe from rain, snow, and dust, hence allowing you to be free from the worry about your cargo.
The sleek, matte-finished outlook fully complements your trucks tonneau by sitting on the bed rails and showing a low-profile design. Depending on your truck, the Gator ETX is custom-fitted so that you get unwrinkled fit no matter what.
Furthermore, you can easily open it up to two-third by simply folding the panels and securing the folded panels thanks to the included buckling systems. Moreover, the tail-gate seal blocks any kind of dust or debris entering the tonneau from the tail-gate gap.
Lund Genesis – Tri-Folding Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Lund Genesis
- This tonneau cover fits perfectly any Classic Dodge Ram 1500 of the model from 2009 to 2020.
- The cover is soft, tri-fold, complemented with a durable aluminum frame with dual-sided marine grade vinyl fabric.
- The no-tool installation procedure will take less than 5 minutes.
- Perfect sealing against rain, dust, and smoke, thanks to the low-profile and tight design.
- In the open position, you can access 2/3 of the tonneau bed.
- Completely made in the US and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Gator Covers
Model Number: 95064
Weight: 32.5 pounds
Dimensions: 64 x 20 x 8 inches
Fit: 2009-20 Classic Dodge Ram 1500
Bed Size: 6’6”
Type: Folding
Pros
- Tear-resistant
- Corrosion-resistant Aluminum Frame
- Lightweight
- Easy-to-Fold Design
- Lifetime Guarantee
Cons
Lund Genesis Review
A tear-resistant tonneau cover that will last for life.
On the list of the best tonneau covers, Lund Genesis is another durable, soft tri-fold tonneau cover that is worth considering if you are looking for one.
If you own any model from 2009 to 2020 Classic Dodge Ram 1500, then this cover is one of the best options you are going to get in the market.
Its tear-resistant, double-sided marine-grade vinyl lining is held by a corrosion-free aluminum frame that produces a tough combination and keeps your cargo secured.
Furthermore, folding is as simple as it sounds, you just need to unclamp the cover from both sides at the tailgate. To hold the folded cover, the integrated clip and strap are there, so that you can easily move the cargo in or out of the tonneau bed.
Like other tonneau covers on our list of the best tonneau covers, Lund Genesis also provides complete protection against rain, snow, or dust. Moreover, the in-build tension strings make sure the tonneau cover always maintains a low profile and remains tight.
Installing this tonneau cover is not a problem as you just need to go through the instructions once and then install it without using any kind of tool.
This completely US-based tonneau cover comes with a limited lifetime warranty, making you free of the worries about the clamps or tension strings malfunctioning.
Tonno Pro 42-200 – A Convenient Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Tonno Pro 42-200
- It fits perfectly any Dodge Ram 1500 of model 2002 to 2018 and Dodge Ram 2500, 3000 of model 2003 to 2018.
- A large bed size allows you to fully utilize the tonneau bed space.
- The fabric has a double-sided tear-resistant marine-grade vinyl coating with a special black texture that is unmatched by anything in the market.
- Specially designed side-locks and E-Z clamps keep the soft fabric tight and secure the cargo.
- This tonneau cover is capable of protecting the tonneau bed from rain, snow, dust, and water, in addition to maintaining a low profile for reduced air drag.
- Installation is tool-free and can be completed in under 10 minutes without any specialist knowledge.
- This tonneau cover doesn’t just come with a limited lifetime warranty but also with few other accessories to maintain the cover.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Tonno Pro
Model Number: 42-200
Weight: 26.3 pounds
Dimensions: 73 x 31 x 5 inches
Fit: 2002-18 Dodge Ram 1500/2003-18 Dodge Ram 2500,3500
Bed Size: 6’4”
Type: Folding
Pros
- Tear-resistant
- Comes Completely Assembled
- Lightweight
- Weathertight Q-seal gasket
- Lifetime Guarantee
Cons
Tonno Pro 42-200 Review
This tonneau cover is for every Dodge out there.
Tonno Pro 42-200 will fit perfectly any Dodge Ram 1500 of model 2002 to 2018 or Dodge Ram 2500, 3000 of model 2003 to 2018. So, this cover is going to suit every Dodge owner.
Tonno Pro 42-200 features a soft 6 foot 4 inches tonneau bed which may be folded to 2/3 to access the tonneau bed quite easily.
Furthermore, the company claims that the tear-resistant double-sided marine-grade vinyl is something you won’t be able to find in the entire market.
What’s more? It can be easily installed without the need of any professional or tool by just following the instructions given in the instruction manual. Moreover, the whole installation process will not take more than 10 minutes.
The E-Z clamping and the special side-lock design make sure the soft fabric is stretched across the tonneau to provide a complete flat outlook and security. Furthermore, the Q-seal gasket will make sure the tonneau bed is safe from any kind of moisture creeping in.
If you buy this tonneau cover you will additionally get a SureSeal Tailgate Seal, a Detachable LED Bed Light Torch, ProGloves, and Multi-purpose vinyl cleaner. Therefore, it’s a complete package which you are going to get.
Extang 44405 – Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Tonno Extang 44405
- This soft, tri-folding tonneau cover is especially suitable for Ford F150 trucks.
- You can install or remove it without the use of any tool.
- Hold-Tite straps and snaps allow effortless folding of the tonneau cover to access the full bed of your truck.
- Strong, durable, yet lightweight aluminum frame.
- Commercial grade vinyl fabric that is wear-resistant.
- A low-profile design can possibly reduce overall fuel consumption.
- Completely made in the USA and has a nice, cooperative US-based customer support team.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Extang
Model Number: 44405
Weight: 31.5 pounds
Dimensions: 74 x 30 x 5 inches
Fit: Ford F150
Bed Size: 5’6”
Type: Folding
Pros
- No-tool Installation
- Strongest Frame
- Lightweight
- Improved Gas Mileage
- Made in the USA
Cons
Tonno Extang 44405 Review
The toughest soft, tri-fold tonneau cover you can find.
This tonneau cover is specifically designed to keep in view the Ford F150. Therefore, it is going to perfectly fit the tonneau bed and that too without any hassle.
You can install it, literally, in under 3 minutes without requiring to use any tool. Furthermore, you can also install the seals on your own to protect the tonneau bed from rain, dust, snow, and water.
The manufacturer claims that this soft tonneau cover has the strongest frame that can be found in the market and yet it is reasonably lightweight. Moreover, the fabric is made with commercial grade vinyl that gives the cover wear-resistant capability.
You can easily fold the tonneau cover to access the full bed via Hold-Tite straps and snaps. Moreover, these straps safely secure the tonneau bed so you don’t have to worry about your cargo.
The hinges and tension springs make sure the soft fabric is fully stretched and hence tight and maintain a low profile that possibly improves the overall mileage of your truck.
Undercover Flex FX21002 – Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Distinguishing Features of the Undercover Flex FX21002
- Fits perfectly with any Ford F-150 model from 2004 to 2014.
- Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) frame that performs better than an aluminum frame in terms of strength and weight.
- The tonneau cover is fully weather-resistant, providing protection against snow, water, dust.
- Moreover, drain tubes are there to route water away and ultimately saving your tonneau bed.
- One ½ wrench is the only tool you’ll require to install this cover in under 20 minutes, while no tool is required for removal of the cover.
- The tonneau cover can protect the cargo in extreme temperature conditions ranging from as low as 20 deg. F to as high as 3-digit temperatures.
- You can either fold the cover to a 2/3 position or to a 100% position to access the complete bed.
- The sleek low-profile, aerodynamic design gives a stylish look to this tonneau cover, in addition to providing low air drag.
Technical Specifications
Brand Name: Undercover
Model Number: FX21002
Weight: 4.38 pounds
Dimensions: 67 x 25 x 9 inches
Fit: 2004-14 Ford F150
Bed Size: 5’5”
Type: Folding
Pros
- 100% Bed Access When Folded
- Stylish Low-profile design
- Lightweight
- Simple Operation
- 3-year Guarantee
Cons
Undercover Flex FX21002 Review
Another great tonneau cover for the Ford F-150 truck.
This tonneau cover from Undercover is a tough one, thanks to the FRP composite panels which out-performs even the aluminum frames. The panel is lighter, stronger, and even more dent-resistant as compared to the aluminum frame.
The hard, tri-fold cover has three adjustable positions, that is fully closed, fully open to access the complete tonneau bed, and 2/3 position if you want to access the partial bed floor.
The installation is as easy as 1, 2, 3, thanks to a one-tool installation procedure that doesn’t require any drilling. You can install it on your own in under 20 minutes by just following simple instructions. Moreover, the removal process is even simpler as it requires no tool and can be completed in under 2 minutes by just spinning two knobs.
It is quite convenient to open because of its effortless clamps and straps, whereas in a closed position it is tough enough to provide full security to your cargo.
Final Words On Best Tonneau Covers
We have reviewed 9 of the best tonneau covers you can possibly find in the market. None of the reviewed covers is lesser than the other as each one of them has its own strengths.
As far as quality is concerned, you can fully trust our review. The only thing you need to make sure of is that you are choosing the one that fits your truck. So, go through our list of best tonneau covers before arriving at any decision.
What’s your experience with the tonneau covers and how do you rate our review of the best tonneau covers, kindly share your response via the comments section.
Best of luck!
