Owning a tonneau cover is no longer a luxury. Retractable tonneau covers will help you transform your open truck bed into a proper and secure storage area for your valuables. Besides, these toppers are sleek- designed to complement the appearance of your vehicle for the longest time possible thanks to their durability.
The market is full of different types of retractable tonneau covers, which makes it hectic to find the best. Fortunately, this article sheds light on how to choose the best tonneau cover for your truck; we also reviewed the 5 best retractable tonneau covers in 2020 to ensure you get value for your money.
Quick Summary
If you are looking for a reasonably priced tonneau cover that comes with all the necessary features, then you won’t go wrong with Roll N Lock LG221 M- series Retractable Truck bed Tonneau cover. This topper is manufactured with quality material that provides the protection and weather resistance needed for your cargo.
PowertraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau cover is the perfect choice when you are looking for a modern hand -free operated tonneau cover. It comes at a higher price than the other toppers that we reviewed here. However, the cover’s features quickly make up for the price difference.
One of the best budget-friendly tonneaus is Retrax 60373 ONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover. This cover comes with what you desire in an ideal tonneau cover while keeping your pockets afloat.
What type of people should buy a retractable tonneau cover?
- Individuals who need maximum protection of their truck bed– A tonneau cover is required to protect the truck bed from harsh weather elements and theft. These types of covers offer reliable protection than other types of truck bed toppers in the market; they often boast a dedicated locking mechanism.
- Those that need easy access to the truck bed- The retractable tonneau covers are designed for quick access truck bed thanks to their ability to retract quickly. They also have a modified locking mechanism; one can quickly get access to the truck bed without opening the tailgate.
- People who are looking for means to improve fuel efficiency- Retractable tonneau covers, just like other types of covers, improve aerodynamics hence increasing fuel efficiency. There is a lot of wind resistance that comes with an open truck bed, with a tonneau cover, one gets to drive around smoothly.
- People looking for ways to add value to their trucks- these covers are sleek designed, thus adding a luxurious feel to the truck’s appearance.
How We Picked The Best Retractable Tonneau Cover?
Here are the factors that we looked into when selecting the retractable covers reviewed below:
Materials
Retractable tonneau covers are made of different materials. Of the many that there is, we chose those made of durable and flexible material.
Some of our best retractable tonneau covers are made of powdered coated aluminium, which is ideal for weather resistance. The finish can remain intact in extreme temperatures over the years. The design sufficiently gives the truck bed a facelift while not compromising on functionality.
We also looked into the retractable tonneau covers made of vinyl. Vinyl coated aluminium feature an added layer of protection against harsh weather elements. The third material that we considered was polycarbonate; it is tough thus meant to last years to come.
Compatibility
Retractable tonneau covers come in various sizes for different truck bed sizes. It is not possible to adjust these tonneau covers to fit any truck bed size; they are designed for specific models of trucks.
We choose covers that fit can a wide range of trucks to ensure there is a variety to choose from.
Ease of use
Retractable tonneau covers are convenient. We reviewed units that open and retract seamlessly; the products that allow smooth rolling for ease of access to the truck bed. We ensured that we only reviewed covers with no history of jamming.
Weather resistance
The ideal retractable tonneau should protect the truck bed against aggressive weather elements. Weather resistance is vital to the cargo, and the tonneau covers itself. What this means is that the cover can tear in extreme conditions if it does not feature element resistance.
We considered those retractable tonneau covers that are designed with an added; layer of polymer vinyl for optimum weather protection. Aluminium coated covers are also ideal for optimum weather protection.
Straightforward installation
It is not necessary to hire a professional to install the retractable cover. We only featured covers that were easy to install without the use of complicated hardware. All these covers come with the necessary installation hardware and a user manual. Furthermore, they are a drill and cut free, thus fast installation.
Warranty
Retractable tonneau covers are quite costly. For this reason, it is crucial to ensure you get value for the money in the end. Besides choosing from the best tonneau cover brand, we made sure that the covers feature a sensible warranty to guarantee quality.
Best Retractable Tonneau Cover: Our Picks in 2020
We have reviewed the best 6 retractable tonneau covers to help you cut through the marketing noise.
Retrax 60373 ONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
There is no doubt that this tonneau cover from Retrax was designed for maximum protection of your cargo. It is also ideal for those looking for ways to minimize their fuel consumption. The manufacturer claims that with this cover, you can reduce your fuel costs by 10%.
This F-150 retractable tonneau cover is stylish without compromising on quality. It is made of high-grade polycarbonate sheets with aluminium rods for added strength. The matte finish gives the cover an irresistible design that is also resistant to scratches.
It comes with a spiral track storage canister. The unit is the low- profile, thus facilitating easy cargo access at all times. Furthermore, the design prevents friction between the canister and the cover.
This cover is a perfect option if you are looking for the best retractable tonneau cover that does not need dumb dusting before you hit the road. The unit retracts seamlessly without any hinges or joints in place. The sealed ball bearing on the aluminium beams facilitates easy opening and closing of this cover.
Another feature that makes this cover one of the best retractable tonneau covers is the fact that it can be locked in any position for convenience. You can lock or unlock it using a button- press key or key. The low profile design aligns the cover for better gas mileage.
Retrax ONE designs tonneau covers that are easy to install. For instance, this cover has a drill-free design; it comes with the necessary tools and a user manual to ensure that your installation is a walk in the park.
Pros
- Easy to operate- comes with sealed ball bearing rollers to enhance retraction.
- Offers maximum cargo protection– comes with a dedicated key- lock system that ensures top security.
- Features maximum convenience- the cover can lock in any desired position
- Easy no-drill installation-includes all necessary hardware for installation.
- No joints and hinges- this makes cleaning easy thus time-saving.
Cons
- Minimal cargo protection- the cover leaks, thus less protection against weather elements.
Roll N Lock LG221 M-Series Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The Roll N Lock LG221 M- series Truck Bed cover is designed with cargo protection and security in mind. It is the ideal choice for anyone in search of the best retractable tonneau cover to protect their cargo from theft. Its auto-lock mechanism says it all.
We love the cover’s design that boasts ratchet- latching mechanism for convenience and added security. Its sturdy torsion spring drive facilitates seamless opening and closing. Once you turn the lever, the built-in strap ensures easy access.
It comes with one of a kind grooves that redirects water into the canister placed below. The water then flows into a narrow tube and drains outside the truck bed. Made of vinyl with corrugated aluminium; this unit dies a good job protecting your truck bed or cargo from harsh elements of the weather.
All the necessary installation hardware is included in the package. There is also an instruction book. You should be able to mount the fast cover, thanks to its clamp-on installation design.
Pros
- Long-lasting- the unit is made of top-grade aluminium and vinyl for the desired durability. The materials are also weather-resistant, thus offering full protection of the truck bed.
- Enhanced convenience- the cover opens and closes quickly. Furthermore, it is lockable in several positions.
- Sleek design- the cover is meant to improve the overall appearance of your truck while still functioning as intended.
- Easy installation- besides the user manual included in the box, the brand has several installation videos on their website to help with installation.
- Three years warranty-the warranty ensures that you get value for your money. You may return the cover if faulty within the stated warranty period.
Cons
- Faulty on arrival– Some hardware might be damaged or its parts missing when you receive it.
GatorTrax Retractable Tonneau Truck Bed Cover
Looking for the best retractable tonneau cover to last you years to come? Gator Trax is a reliable tonneau cover brand that easily strikes a balance between quality and affordability.
This incredible cover is made of a lightweight yet extra durable material called LEXAN and powder-coated aluminium. This is a perfect combination of materials that are intended to optimize UV resistance.
This unit features sealed ball- bearings to allow access to your truck bed quickly. With its dedicated locking mechanism and cargo tracking system, you can rest assured that your cargo will be secure at all times.
We love how this GatorTrax Retractable cover locks in multiple positions with the help of a key. The sealed ball-bearing is maintenance-free for as long as possible. Amazingly, the cover’s canister system lacks joints hence seamless operation. Surprisingly, the canister occupies minimal space in your truck bed, unlike those of its competitors.
The clamp-on rails give room for fast and easy installation. You will not need any metal cutting or drilling.
Pros
- Utmost convenience– this cover can be locked in several preferred positions.
- Built to last– made of top-grade coated aluminium and LEXAN that ensure maximum durability.
- Easy installation– it features clamp-on lighting. Additionally, it is constructed of LEXAN that is lightweight thus can be installed by one person.
- Sleek design- it is a black- low-profile designed cover that easily compliments a good number of trucks.
Cons
- Time-consuming installation– the installation instructions are quite confusing; it may take time for one to figure out the proper way to install this retractable tonneau cover.
PowertraxONE 70426 MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The MX series of tonneau covers are the best of both worlds. Powertrax ONE MX is the best option for those looking for a durable yet stylish best retractable tonneau cover.
This retractable tonneau topper is a perfect combination of long-lasting polycarbonate and a durable matte finish. This ensures the topmost impact resistance and UV protection at all times regardless of the climatic conditions.
You will fall in love with the cover’s patent low profile design that integrates the front cover for that well-streamlined appearance that comes with a tight seal to protect your cargo and truck bed.
We love the cover’s ability to lock in any position, thanks to its reliable electromagnetic brake. This locking mechanism gives you enough room gives you the desired hauling capacity. The unit’s LED canister is operated by the use of a keyfob. It also features an auto-shutoff function. This tonneau cover is simply a superior version of the RetraxONE.
The sealed ball-bearing rollers are strategically mounted on the aluminium beams to allow this tonneau cover to retract smoothly. This spring- free opening and locking mechanism ensures that you do not experience any form of dysfunction.
This is a clamp-on truck bed cover. Anyone can easily install it without professional help. It comes with an adjustable mounting system to fit your truck perfectly. It features stake pocket holes for an easier installation of other desired truck bed accessories. The user manual comes with all the wiring instructions; the average installation time is half an hour, which is quite reasonable.
Pros
- Offers top-level convenience- the cover can be locked in the desired position, thus providing you easy access to the truck bed every single time. Its flush-mounted latch opens by the touch of a button; its operation does not require a key.
- It is made of durable materials- the polycarbonate material is resistant to the UV of the sun, the remains fit even in all weather conditions for a very long period.
- Offers excellent weather resistance-the cover perfectly fits all the sides of the truck bed to help keep undesired elements of weather out of your truck bed, offering a perfect seal as desired.
- Provides maximum truck bed security- this unit features a keyfob that is operated with an automatic shut-off for enhanced truck bed security. The cargo remains safe always.
Cons
- Does a not fit long truck bed– Unfortunately, the PowerRetraxONE MX cover is available for short truck beds only.
Gator Trax G60481 Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Gator has one of the best tonneau covers in the market. The Gatortrax G60481 Retractable truck bed topper is designed for truck models with wide rails.
This cover is made with polycarbonate slats that are strong enough to withstand harsh elements and scratch for an l long time to come. Additionally, the slots are sturdy to handle a significant well-distributed weight.
The cover’s canister ensures that users get to maximize their truck bed space.
The cover features sealed- ball bearings that ensure the cover retracts without any issues. This unit looks incredible on your truck bed, owning to its low profile design and matte finish that makes it irresistibly good looking.
With this tonneau cover, you will not have to worry about leakages. It is waterproof design ensures that your cargo remains in good shape.
The cover’s installation is easy thanks to its drill and cut- free design. All the necessary hardware is included in the package. Besides, you get a user manual with installation instructions so that you work as fast as possible.
Pros
- Sleek designed– the cover features a low profile design and a glossy finish to complement your truck’s appearance.
- Made to last for long-the polycarbonate material is designed to resist harsh weather factors and hold a considerable amount of weight without bowing.
- Offers convenience– this topper can be locked in any desired position using a key.
- Offers maximum truck bed usage– the cover’s canister design ensures that you have more space to use on the truck bed.
Cons
- The included hardware may not fit-this is a significant inconvenience to the users.
Pace Edwards (SWC3250 Switchblade Tonneau Cover
A High-quality tonneau cover does not have to break your bank. Pace Edwards SWC3250 switchblade topper is one of the best pocket- friendly covers in the market. The cover boasts features that are only relatable to pricey units.
This retractable cover has a continuous tension spring that allows for seamless retraction. Additionally, it has a full-width handle with a pull strap for convenient use; no need to get over the truck bed to open or close it. The strap lets you do that quickly.
This is a stable and reliable topper even during strong messy winds. However, its design allows you to retract it singlehandedly. The cover’s low profile design does not allow locking every 12 inches as with other retractable tonneau covers from the same manufacturer.
The cover’s canister is easily removable to allow for complete access to the truck bed.
The cover’s switchblade is designed with aluminium panels bonded with Pace’s patented ArmorTek, which is padded with weather-resistant polymer for extra strength. The layer is placed on the aluminium panels, thus giving the cover a luxurious look; it amazingly compliments the truck bed.
You will need special tools to install this topper. With a 7/16” wrench and Phillips head screwdriver, the installation will take about half an hour. All the other necessary installation hardware is included in the package.
Pros
- Easy operation-the cover’s tension spring easily retracts when you gently push it.
- Weather-resistant– the cover features drainage tubes to get rid of the water that gets into the truck bed through the mounting rails channels.
- Long-lasting- the unit is built from high-quality materials that are also scratch-resistant.
- Easy and straightforward installation– The cover can be installed or removed in a few minutes, giving you full track bed access for hauling large items.
Cons
- Average quality- some parts may start falling apart soon than later.
- The cover leaks-it does not offer the expected weather resistance. It may leak at times, especially during heavy rains.
The Conclusion for You-Best Retractable Tonneau Cover
We hope this article lessened the burden of choosing the best retractable tonneau cover for your needs. Lock N Roll M- series will never let you down when it comes to protection from both weather elements and theft. PowertraxONE MX series gives an assurance of quality at an affordable price; it also features a modern classic design for those looking for the latest technology in retractable tonneau covers. Whichever truck topper you choose, it is our wish that it takes care of your truck bed needs.