Looking for the best retractable tonneau cover for your truck? The tonneau area of a car refers to the part of a truck vehicle that is normally open.
To get the best out of this extra space, people add tonneau covers that can be either hard or soft to keep the space closed and protect the contents in the truck.
Tonneau covers can be found in a very wide range of types. Most of them are retractable and are used to cover the cargo bed for extra security while maintaining it easy to use.
In order to choose the best retractable tonneau cover, you will need to get informed about this topic and see which product suits your needs.
Comparison Table of Retractable Tonneau Cover
| Preview | Brand | Details |
|---|---|---|
  | GatorTrax F150 2015-2018 | |
  | Roll-N-Lock Silverado & Sierra 1500 | |
  | Pace Edwards SWF2843 | |
  | GatorTrax Toyota Tundra 2007-2019 | |
  | Roll-N-Lock 2009-2018 Ram 1500 | |
  | RetraxONE MX F150 SuperCrew, SuperCab | |
  | Syneticusa 2004-2019 Ford F-150 | |
  | RetraxPRO MX F150 SuperCrew, SuperCab | |
  | RetraxPRO MX Chevy & GMC | |
  | Pace Edwards SWC3250 |
Tonneau covers come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and equipped with various functions.
The most common type is the retractable tonneau. There are also snap-based tonneau covers, roll-up tonneau covers, fiberglass tonneau covers, and others.
Each type has its own properties, to match the needs and preferences of the users.
Some tonneau covers are better for protecting goods in a vehicle, while others are better at concealing the cargo that you are carrying. Either way, you should choose the tonneau cover that you need.
This article will list a few reviews of the best retractable tonneau covers, as this is the most selected and popular type, for its ease of use and great features. Continue reading to find out more about this topic.
Top 10 Best Retractable Tonneau Cover Reviews
01. GatorTrax Retractable Truck Bed Cover – Fits on Ford F150 2015-2018
Highlighted Features
- Fits: 2015-2018 Ford F150
- Made of LEXAN
- Key-locking system
- Weight: ~70 pounds
- Size: 68 x 20 x 8 inches
Gator covers are probably the most popular retractable tonneau covers out there. Their products are affordable and high-quality. When talking about this GatorTrax tonneau bed cover, we need to mention the flat matte finish.
If you’re all about the looks, this tonneau cover will definitely catch your attention. It has a low-profile design and it is deep black, suiting every vehicle color. As for security, it is easy to lock it in place.
In fact, adding a tonneau cover to your truck makes it safer than the vehicle’s cabin itself. The tonneau cover is impact-resistant, yet lightweight.
You can place it in any position you want without fearing that it will freeze in a certain position.
The system behind this tonneau cover is a ball-bearing, spiral-track one. There are no moving parts that could lead to blocking in place.
In terms of installation, you won’t have to drill your car because this tonneau cover can be snapped to your truck directly.
Pros
- Convenient to mount on any truck that fits
- Under-the-handle locking system
- Ball-bearings system for sliding
- Made of LEXAN, for extra impact power
- No moving parts
Cons
- The lock cover is made of silicon
- LEXAN is a type of plastic, so is less durable than aluminum
02. Roll-N-Lock LG221M Retractable Truck Bed Cover – Fits on 2014-2018 Silverado & Sierra 1500
Highlighted Features
- Fits 2014-2018 Silverado & Sierra 1500
- Made of vinyl over aluminum
- Multiple locking system
- Weight: ~95 pounds
- Size: 74 x 13 x 15 inches
This retractable tonneau cover works perfectly with Silverado & Sierra vehicles launched between 2014 and 2018. It is important to take into account the model, 1500. Otherwise, the cover might not fit best.
This tonneau cover is highly recommendable for many people who already tried it because of its sturdiness, great price, and good looks. In terms of fit, form, and function, this cover has it all.
The bed truck for the vehicles mentioned above is 6.6” and this cover fits it perfectly.
In the package, you will have all the parts necessary for mounting this tonneau cover. The installation process shouldn’t take longer than 1 hour.
”It is important to mention that the instructions included in the package are not very clear, but you can always watch a video tutorial on how to mount this product. Also, you will need a helping hand to lift the unit and place it on your truck.”
The tonneau cover is waterproof and secured, so it’s great for protecting cargo, not only concealing the content. The materials used for this cover are vinyl and aluminum. Regardless of the weather, you’ll get the best out of this product for sure.
Pros
- The package contains everything you need for installation
- It is waterproof
- The vinyl and aluminum combination is very resistant
- Great locking system
- Mid-range latching
Cons
- Poor included instructions
- Requires drilling
03. Pace Edwards SWF2843
Highlighted Features
- Fits Silverado trucks, Ram1500, F150 and others
- Made of aluminum and amortek
- Tension spring system for smooth retractability
- Weight: ~65 pounds
- Size: 76.4 x 16.9 x 6.4 inches
Those who want to keep heavy cargo secured and concealed should definitely give this tonneau cover a try. It is easy to install, as it requires no drilling at all. It goes well with the vehicles included in its range.
Pace Edwards has a very good reputation in terms of producing retractable tonneau covers, so you shouldn’t worry about product quality.
The Switchblade is a great product for those who want to transition from a flip-up cover to a retractable product.
Compared to Roll n Lock, this product has a better price-quality ratio, even though it offers almost the same level of quality.
”As in the case of other tonneau covers, the assembly process is not very clearly explained in the instructions, so you might need to watch a video tutorial to understand how it is locked in place.”
”Even so, it shouldn’t take longer than an hour. Another problem of the Switchblade would be that it doesn’t have any locking points – you can either use it fully opened or closed.”
Overall, the product is a sophisticated one and is worth the money. It has both the good looks and the functionality you would need from a tonneau cover.
Pros
- Easy to install, no drilling required
- Good price-quality ratio
- Perfect for transitioning from flip-up covers
- Tension spring system included
- Strong amortek cover
Cons
- No locking points
- Unclear installation process
04. GatorTrax – For Toyota Tundra 2007-2019
Highlighted Features
- Fits 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra trucks
- Made of polycarbonate
- It can hold up to 300 lbs.
- Weight: ~90 pounds
- Size: 70 x 16 x 14 inches
This retractable tonneau cover from GatorTrax is the best choice for those who want to combine aesthetics and functionality. The tonneau cover comes in a glossy finish that gives your car that mirror look.
Moreover, the bed cover has a low-profile design that looks well on all types of trucks. In terms of security, the bed cover can be locked in place using clamps.
The assembly process is very convenient for any user, regardless of whether you have experience with mounting bed covers or not.
”The material used for this bed cover is LEXAN polycarbonate, which may not be suitable for some vehicles. For those who want other material qualities, they should opt for aluminum bed covers.”
The GatorTrax tonneau cover can be placed in a position of your choice, meaning that you won’t have to use it either closed or open. The system that makes this possible is very smooth and keeps the cover away from freezing.
The bed cover is based on ball-bearings and it doesn’t rely on moving parts, which are often the cause of freezing. As mentioned before, the cover can be snapped in place using clamp-on nails.
Pros
- Glossy finish for better looks
- Lightweight LEXAN polycarbonate
- Infinite locking system
- No moving parts
- No drilling required
Cons
- No combination of polycarbonate and aluminum
- The assembly process is not properly described in the instructions
05. Roll-N-Lock LG447M Retractable Truck Bed Cover– Suitable For 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500
Highlighted Features
- Fits 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks
- Made of polycarbonate
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~90 pounds
- Size: 74 x 13 x 15 inches
This is a classic retractable tonneau cover that fits Dodge Ram models. The system behind this tonneau cover is an infinite locking one, which means that you can place it in the position you want without being forced to use it closed or opened.
For trucks that come with a tailgate lock, this tonneau cover is very easy to install and you can secure cargo quickly.
The tonneau cover is water-resistant, so you can drive your truck while it’s raining outside resting assured that water won’t reach your cargo.
”The tailgate lock assembly can be quite complicated if the user can’t properly locate the center of the gate. This can make the installation process longer or more complicated. There’s also a risk of misaligning that could make the bed cover stick down the rails.”
The construction of this tonneau cover is sturdy, making it the perfect choice for those who want to protect the cargo inside their truck. The price-quality ratio is quite good, noting that the bed cover will keep your bed truck secured AND dry.
It is not prone to warping due to the materials used. As long as you manage to center the tailgate, everything will go smooth from there. It is a good replacement for tri-fold tonneau covers.
Pros
- Infinite locking system
- Clear installation process
- Water-resistant
- Good price-quality ratio
- Not prone to warping
Cons
- Tailgate lock misalignment
- The bed cover can stick down the rails
06. RetraxONE MX
Highlighted Features
- Fits F150 Super Crew and Super Cab trucks
- Made of one-piece polycarbonate
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~70 pounds
- Size: 76 x 19 x 15 inches
This retractable tonneau cover from RetraxOne will meet all of your expectations for sure. The company focuses on producing retractable tonneau covers, and they are quite popular for their products.
The system used for their retractable bed covers is a ball-bearing roller one. The rollers are mounted on aluminum support for extra sturdiness and smoothness during retraction.
There are no moving parts that can jam and make the cover freeze, which is very convenient.
The material used for creating this tonneau cover is polycarbonate. What is different from other bed covers is that RetraxOne uses a one-piece sheet of this material.
The sheet is engineered from scratch to be compatible with the ball-bearing mechanism.
”The bad part about the key-lock system is that it may accumulate water in the winter, which can freeze and make the cargo inaccessible.”
This way, using polycarbonate with joints and hinges is entirely avoided. The method keeps the bed cover cleaner and more secure. The polycarbonate comes in a matte finish if you are all about the looks.
The matte finish is also resistant to scratches. Another important aspect is represented by the key-lock system.
You only need to release the lash by putting your key in and pressing a button. It is also sealed and waterproof.
Pros
- Made of one-piece polycarbonate
- Sturdy and smooth retraction due to ball-bearing rollers
- No joints or hinges, making it easy to clean
- Matte, scratch-resistant finish
- Key-lock system
Cons
- The lock is prone to freezing in the winter
07. Syneticusa Retractable Tonneau Cover – Fits on 2004-2019 Ford F-150
Highlighted Features
- Fits 2004-2019 F150
- Made of aluminum slats
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~80 pounds
- 5 ft length
This tonneau works with all sorts of bed truck liners. You shouldn’t worry about mounting, as it is very easy and requires no drilling. The tonneau cover can be fixed using clamps.
All the hardware needed for the installation of this tonneau cover is included in the package, which is quite convenient.
The mounting process involves using a 9/16 wrench, a mounting bracket, and some bolts. It would be best to go from a tri-fold bed cover to this cover for the biggest upgrade for your truck.
Retractable bed covers have numerous benefits compared to tri-fold ones, especially in terms of maintenance.
The best part about this aluminum tonneau bed cover is that it’s UV protected. Plastic tends to lose its color in time and it doesn’t have the same degree of protection as aluminum.
There is no maintenance required for this tonneau cover – you can normally wash it just the way you wash your car.
The aluminum is an aircraft-grade one, of 1.7 mm thickness. The panel exterior is entirely made of aluminum, as well as the panel frames. The bed cover comes in a black powder coat finish to fit all vehicles.
Pros
- Time-resistant
- The aesthetic, black powder finish
- The high degree of protection
- Thick aluminum
- Hardware included
Cons
- The clamps are a bit difficult to lock in place
- Not waterproof
08. RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Highlighted Features
- Fits F150 Super Crew and Super Cab
- Made of industrial aluminum
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~85 pounds
- 5 ft length
This is another great product from RetraxPRO. The MX bed cover comes in two different finishes – a glossy and a matte one. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the bed cover that works best with your vehicle.
The material used for this tonneau cover is industrial aluminum, which means to last well in time and retract smoothly.
The system for retraction is based on sealed ball bearings, which means that no moving parts are included. This ensures that the retraction process is very smooth.
Another big benefit of this tonneau cover is that it has unlimited hauling flexibility. You can use it with your 5th wheel without problems and you can lock the bed cover in any position that you wish.
The bed cover is also lightweight considering that it is made of thick aluminum.
Its weight reduces mileage by up to 10%. Besides the fact that it adds style to your vehicle, the bed cover is also scratch-resistant. This retractable tonneau cover is meant to protect the cargo while maintaining a low-profile design.
Pros
- Made of premium aluminum – long lifespan
- Strong and rugged for extra cargo protection
- Matte or glossy finish
- Reduces mileage by 10%
- Smooth retraction process due to ball bearings
Cons
- There might be a slight misaligning from one vehicle to another
- Takes up enough space where the cover retracts
09. RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Cover
Highlighted Features
- Fits Chevy & GMC
- Made of industrial aluminum
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~90 pounds
- 8-inch bed
There’s no news that products from RetraxPRO offer all the features you would need from a retractable tonneau cover.
This product is of industrial-grade aluminum. Even though it is made of aluminum, the retraction process couldn’t be smoother.
Instead of using fixed parts, this product has sealed ball bearings. Because the parts are not moving, the risk of having this tonneau cover blocked in place is reduced to a minimum.
The design is also quite eye-grabbing since the bed cover comes in a matte finish and a low-profile design.
The matte finish has another great benefit – it makes the cover resistant to scratches. Aluminum doesn’t require much of a maintenance process. You can wash the bed cover just the way you wash your vehicle, with water and soap.
As for the locking system, you can place the cover in any position you want, while still keeping your cargo secured.
If your vehicle has a 5th wheel included, keep in mind that this bed cover has unlimited hauling flexibility. This product doesn’t seem to have major downsides and reviews speak for themselves.
Pros
- Great looks and functionality
- Matches the truck that fit perfectly
- Completely waterproof
- No rattling sound
- Matte finish that is resistant to scratches
Cons
- The rails might require waxing for smoother retraction
- Long installation process
10. Pace Edwards SWC3250 Switchblade Tonneau Cover
Highlighted Features
- Fits Chevy trucks with 5.8 bed
- Made of aluminum and padded polymer
- Flexible locking positions
- Weight: ~70 pounds
- Size: 68 x 16 x 14 inches
The bed covers from Switchblade are known for how easy the installation is and how well they last in time. Usually, people recommend Switchblade tonneau covers to those who never tried a retractable cover before.
To help with easing the assembly, the product comes with the needed hardware included. The lock has a position inside the cover so that you won’t need a key or fob to use it.
”In terms of waterproofing, the cover is supposed to keep water outside on paper, but that doesn’t happen in all situations.
If it’s raining heavily, you might notice small leaks around the tailgate. Even so, it is not that bad to consider it a huge downside.”
For those who used tri-fold bed covers before, this retractable tonneau cover from Switchblade will be a gamechanger.
The process of retracting it is very smooth given the system behind it. The cover seals up nicely with any vehicle that fits. It has a low-profile fit and the finish is a black polymer, scratch-resistant one.
Pros
- Strong aluminum structure
- No need for a key/fob
- Easy installation process
- Smooth retraction
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Possible leaks around the tailgate
- The side rails might require additional touch-ups
How to Choose The Appropriate Retractable Tonneau Cover For Your Vehicle?
You have just decided that you would need a bed cover for your truck? Perfect! The only step left is to choose one that fits your vehicle best.
These short tips should help you to make a wise decision. Keep these facts in mind when looking for the best tonneau cover:
Pay attention to security
Nothing is more important than keeping your cargo secure. Look for a tonneau cover that is made of strong materials such as aluminum or heavy-duty polycarbonate. Make sure that the tailgate cannot be opened easily unless you want your cargo stolen.
Think of the weather
You’ll get protection from the rain at all times in your car, but your cargo won’t. This is why you need to choose a bed cover that keeps your cargo dry.
Pay attention to how the tonneau cover seals around the edges. Retractable covers are more suitable in this case, even though they are more expensive than tri-fold ones.
Choose a reliable provider
There are companies that produce tonneau covers since forever and they have a great reputation. Always choose these companies because they will guarantee a stress-free purchasing process.
Read a lot of reviews
Keep in mind that other people already purchased the products you are interested in. They are the only ones who can tell for sure whether the product is worth the money or not.
Don’t forget to read the FAQs and see what the producer has to say about the product, as well as what clients answered.
Frequently Asked Questions for Best Retractable Tonneau Cover
Retractable or Tonneau Covers, which is better?
Retractable covers offer quicker access, better protection from the elements and theft. But tonneau types also protect from weather and thieves, but the bed is hard to access. Soft covers prevent water from soiling your items but offer little resistance against theft.
What is the allowable tension for a Tonneau Cover?
Currently, there is no standard measurement for tensioning your tonneau cover. However, you should feel it, then adjust. Make sure the tension is neither too tight nor loose. A little between is better.
A loose cover does not offer enough waterproof protection. If the tension is high, the surface could rupture. So, observe the body, then choose the pressure that works for you.
Will Tonneau Cover Improve Mileage?
Retractable tonneau cover improves the truck’s aerodynamics. It prevents air entrapment that limits the truck’s speed. A tonneau cover blocks air from entering the truck bed. For better mileage for your vehicle, go for hard or retractable cover is perfect.
What tools are needed when installing a Retractable Tonneau Cover?
Tools needed depends on your truck’s model. Most kits come in three-pieces, including cover, housing, and support rails. If your vehicle already has pre-drilled holes, you only need a socket wrench. Otherwise, use clamps to hold the cover to the truck.
Is Tonneau Cover worth buying?
Tonneau cover shields your belongings from thieves and harsh weather conditions. By preventing moisture accumulation, tonneau cover prevents rust, prolonging the truck bed’s life. Worth mentioning a bed cover enhances the truck’s looks and style.
Which is better between a lockable tonneau cover and one with a tailgate?
Both are good. But the material of construction determines the level of protection it offers. A tonneau cover with a metal material provides the best protection when using the right lock. Using an integrated lock allows easier access and offers better protection for a non-lock tailgate. With the integrated lock, you don’t need to put the gate down before accessing it. If you have a lockable tailgate, we recommend choosing one that only opens when down.
What is a hard truck bed tonneau cover?
Whether the tonneau cover is hard or soft is dependent on the material used. Surprisingly, all hinge tonneau covers are hard. Meanwhile, foldable, retractable, or slide types are either hard or soft. A hard tonneau cover is more solid and more reliable than the softcover types. Hardcovers are either made of fiberglass, metal, or plastic.
Conclusion
So, these are the best compilation of the best retractable tonneau covers. We believe you are now confident enough about choosing the best one that fits your car.
Therefore, we have published this list from our expert guide that will prove best if you use them. That means, the buying consideration from here will value your money.
Also, these are the best tonneau cover models that use the excellent and latest technology & serve your purpose.
We’ve made your purchase easier! So, buy now from the above unique product list. We wish you all the best for your purchase!
[…] Gator Tri-fold truck bed cover is constructed by an aluminum frame and crossbows for great durability. […]