Choosing the Best Hard Folding Tonneau Cover Summary
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When evaluating tonneau covers, we assess ease of installation and use, durability, price, and overall functionality, as these are among the essential factors when choosing a tonneau cover. During our more expanded review of the best hard tonneau covers, we used these trucks as test vehicles:
After installation, we tried each cover’s features and then left it on the test truck to learn how it would hold up over time. Hit the “show more” arrow if you would like to see our full testing methodology, including how we score tonneau covers.
Our product team caught up with RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King, who has worked on vehicles for over 25 years. An auto industry veteran, King recommends truck owners start by considering three factors when it comes to picking the best tonneau cover for their needs: cost, security, and use case.
On average, expect to spend between $600 to $1,600 for a hard folding tonneau cover. This type of tonneau cover is often cheaper than a retractable one but more expensive than a soft roll-up tonneau cover.
If your budget is under $500, a soft rolling cover or soft tri-fold cover may be your only option. Hard tonneau covers are difficult, if not impossible, to find in this price range. However, there are affordable soft tonneau covers that don’t sacrifice quality despite a lower price point.
If price is no concern, you might consider a retractable tonneau cover with all the bells and whistles. Retractable covers can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000. One of the most popular retractable covers is the Retrax EQ, which has a retail price of about $3,200.
The difference between entry-level and the more expensive hard folding tonneau covers often comes down to materials and bed access.
Hard folding tonneau covers are usually constructed using a piece of expanded foam sandwiched between two panels. In most cases, the interior panel is made of aluminum. Low-cost and mid-range hard covers typically use aluminum for the top panel as well.
More expensive hard folding tonneau covers may use a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). The benefit is more long-term durability against the elements.
“FRP is more dent-resistant than aluminum. If you’re parked in a driveway and a tree branch fell, the aluminum could dent or poke through the tonneau cover. FRP will be a lot more resistant to damage from tree branches or hail.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.
While FRP is more durable than aluminum, FRP material isn’t as good at withstanding high-heat environments. If you live somewhere that regularly experiences extreme heat, you may be better off with an aluminum tonneau cover. Try to think about the weather conditions where you live, as that will help you pick the right type of cover.
Similarly, if you have an off-road-oriented truck, like a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Ford F-150 Raptor, or Ram RHO, hard tonneau covers are designed to weather the great outdoors.
Tri-fold hard tonneau covers are generally more versatile than a one-piece cover that resembles a lid or shell—the UnderCover SE is a single-piece style like this. Using the UnderCover SE as an example, the pneumatic struts make the hard top cover easy to lift, but the design prevents you from really being able to access your truck bed near the cab from the side.
Unlike a one-piece option, hard tri-fold tonneau covers offer varying degrees of bed access, including full access, depending on what you are hauling.
“Your entry price point hard folding covers will only stow in the two-thirds folded position so that last panel basically won’t fold all the way forward to the cab. But outside of your entry-level covers, almost all of them fold all the way to the cab, so you have the flexibility for when you need to haul something larger. You can drive with these tonneau covers stowed in those positions, so no issues there.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.
While you can drive with a hard folding cover in the fully opened position, this will obstruct the view out the back window. It’s not recommended to drive this way for an extended distance.
Some hard folding truck bed covers, like the Extang Solid Fold Toolbox 2.0, are compatible with tool boxes. Keep in mind that if you have a one-piece shell that covers the whole of your bed, it will prevent you from having a tool box.
Since tonneau covers can fold or roll open, they allow you to take advantage of bed space vertically, whereas a conventional topper would restrict you from carrying taller items.
A hard tonneau cover can effectively protect the contents of your truck bed in a way that a soft tonneau cover simply cannot. Soft tonneau covers can easily be accessed by tearing through the vinyl with a knife or box cutter.
“One of the biggest benefits of a hard folding tonneau cover is the security they offer. Most new trucks have locking tailgates, so if your tailgate locks and the tonneau cover is closed, the cover is also locked in place with your tailgate. If you own an older model that doesn’t have an OEM lock— whether it’s automatic or keyed—there’s a brand called Pop & Lock that you can add.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.
Depending on where you park and what you keep in the bed, security may not be a factor in choosing a tonneau cover. If so, you can save money by purchasing a soft roll-up cover. Otherwise, if security is a top priority because you often haul expensive valuables, consider a hard folding tonneau cover.
Before purchasing any tonneau cover, consider how you use your truck and how you plan to use your tonneau cover. The best option may depend on how regularly you plan to remove and reattach your cover.
“Your soft folding covers can be removed from a truck in 60 seconds. If you just want a temporary solution for the occasional road trip and an open bed for the rest of the time, soft roll-ups can get out of the way completely for a trailer. Retractable covers would roll up and be out of the way for a fifth-wheel or gooseneck. A hard folding cover would also fold up against the cab and be out of the way, but if you’re towing a trailer and it’s going to be hooked up for a while, I wouldn’t recommend blocking your rear window for a long period.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.
If you regularly travel with a camper or horse trailer, a hard folding tonneau cover might not be the best option. There is no concern if you tow conventionally (i.e., from the bumper), as a hard folding tonneau cover will not impact that.
According to King, hard folding tonneau covers are the most popular category of covers among RealTruck customers. “The covers are well engineered, well built, and fit 99 percent of people’s use cases,” he said.
In addition to the security they provide over soft covers, hard folding tonneau covers are significantly more durable in the long run. “If properly cared for, a hard folding tonneau could last as long as your truck,” King said.
Compared to retractable covers, hard folding covers are less expensive but still offer the benefit of deterring would-be thieves by their rugged construction. Finally, a hard folding cover provides a sleek look that many find desirable.
While there are not a lot of disadvantages to hard folding tonneau covers, there may be better options depending on how you use your truck. For example, hard tonneau covers take longer to remove than soft ones.
When fully opened, hard folding tonneau covers will block your rear window, eliminating your view. Although the combination of prop rods and rubber bumpers will protect your rear window and the back of your cab from damage, a soft roll-up or retractable tonneau may be a better option.
Towing is also a consideration. While hard folding tonneaus can be compatible with fifth-wheel and gooseneck applications, they are not the best choice for visibility when driving with a large trailer.
We named the BAKFlip G2 and the Gator EFX the best hard folding tonneau covers on the market in .
Other highly rated covers we would consider but have not tested yet include the BAKFlip MX4 and Extang Solid Fold ALX.
When it comes to tonneau covers, our Automoblog team members comb through DIY mechanic and auto enthusiast forums, manufacturer websites, and PDF instruction manuals from those manufacturers.
We pay attention to reviews and recommendations highlighting the quality of warranties, customer service support, build quality, materials, and overall reliability. We often look at websites like RealTruck and Amazon as a source for real-world customer reviews.
For this guide on how to pick the best hard folding tonneau cover, we recommend two from our testing: the BAKFlip G2 as the best overall option and the Gator EFX as the best budget option.
The BAKFlip G2 is a highly durable cover made with aircraft-grade aluminum reinforced by a powder-coated black finish, making it UV-resistant and corrosion-resistant. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber seals line the sides of this cover, preventing water incursion.
The tonneau cover is easy to use and can be opened to allow for full bed access. Here is how the BAKFlip G2 performed in each of our testing categories:
The BAKFlip G2 performed better than average by all of our metrics. It installs quickly and sits flush with the truck bed. We like the multiple open positions, including the ability to open against the back window for complete bed access.
One thing to note is that the BAKFlip G2 requires more installation steps for trucks that lack square bed rails. Once installed, however, the G2 sits flush with the truck bed. It latches in several positions, and we found the locking mechanism was always fluid and responsive.
RealTruck Review Score: 4.5 out of 5.0 (over 1,800 reviews).
Owners regularly praise the BAKFlip G2 for its ease of installation and ease of use. Owners also say they appreciate that the cover allows for full bed access and that it looks nice when closed.
It’s also worth noting that leaking can result from improper installation. If you have questions about installation, RealTruck offers customer support via live chat and by .
The Gator EFX is easy on your wallet and easy to install.
Benefits include an aircraft-grade aluminum construction that allows the cover to support up to 300 lbs. of evenly distributed weight. The EFX is also coated with a dent-, scratch-, and UV-resistant polymer, which helps ensure a long service life.
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Here is how the Gator EFX performed in each of our testing categories:
While the written directions that come with the EFX aren’t very clear, the overall installation process is simple enough once you get going.
We did notice that not all of the slam latches aligned perfectly. The cover has some left and right motion once installed, and you may need to shift it from the side to ensure the locks are correctly engaged.
As mentioned above, the Gator EFX is built with aircraft-grade aluminum and features a black powder coat finish. Thick EPDM rubber seals help prevent water intrusion, but we found the rubber is so thick that the cover did not sit completely flush with the truck bed in some places. It’s not a reason to dismiss the EFX; it’s more just something to be aware of if you purchase the EFX.
RealTruck Review Score: 4.5 out of 5.0 (over 3,400 reviews).
According to online reviews, the Gator EFX works well for such a low-cost cover. Most find the cover easy to install and appreciate its sleek, flush appearance once the installation is complete.
However, some feel the EFX is not entirely waterproof. Similarly, those with a truck bed liner mention the EFX may not fit perfectly without first trimming back the liner.
While our Automoblog team has tested many tonneau covers, we haven’t yet had the opportunity to try the covers below. We think these may be worth considering based on manufacturer reputation, features, and customer reviews.
It features a matte black finish and sits flush with the bed rails for an aerodynamic look. Other benefits include the five-year warranty, heavy-duty aluminum construction, and security features that should protect your gear from would-be thieves and the elements.
Truck owners choose the BAKFlip MX4 for its appearance, durability, and ease of use. According to customer reviews, the most commonly praised aspect is that it’s easy to install and fits nicely on their truck. Several reviewers also appreciate that this hard folding tonneau cover allows for full truck bed access.
The Solid Fold ALX is an upgraded version of the Solid Fold 2.0 hard folding truck bed cover. The difference is a unique Secure Rotary Release Latching System for effortless one-handed operation. To use it, simply drop the tailgate, twist, and lift the cover—it automatically latches against the bed rails when closed.
Truck owners will likely appreciate the EnduraShield TPO panels, which are both impact and UV-resistant, coupled with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame that boasts a textured black EnduraCoat finish.
Additionally, the cover includes hinge cap seals and snap-on triple-fin perimeter seals to protect against inclement weather. When closed, the Extang Solid Fold ALX supports a remarkable load capacity of 600 lbs. when weight is evenly distributed.
A good hard folding tonneau cover should be durable, open quickly, deter thieves, and allow little water incursion. In this guide, we reviewed two of the best hard folding tonneau covers:
The following covers may also be of interest to you, though we have not tested them ourselves:
This article was updated 5/7/.
If you own a truck, you know how important it is to protect your cargo from the elements and prying eyes. A tonneau cover can be your truck's best friend, offering both security and style. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Let's break it down.
A tonneau cover, available in hard or soft options, shields your truck bed, keeping its contents hidden, protected from the elements, and adding a stylish touch to your vehicle. Additionally, studies suggest that using a tonneau cover can improve aerodynamics, resulting in a potential increase in fuel mileage. With various styles available, choosing the right tonneau cover depends on your unique requirements and preferences.
There are many types and styles of covers but these are the most common:
1) SNAP-ON COVERS: Snap-on covers are easy to install and remove, featuring snaps that secure the cover to the truck bed. They provide basic weather protection and are ideal for truck owners looking for a simple, affordable option.
2) SOFT ROLL-UP COVERS: Constructed from vinyl or fabric panels mounted on a frame, soft roll-up covers fold up in sections, providing versatile bed access. They offer a good balance between affordability, ease of use, and weather resistance.
For example, the LINE-X Deluxe Roll-Up Tonneau Cover enhances your truck's appearance and functionality with a sleek, low-profile design. Simply roll the cover closed to protect your cargo, latch it securely, and use the retainer straps to roll it open when full bed access is needed.
3) HARD ROLL-UP COVERS: Constructed from materials like aluminum slats, hard roll-up covers offer enhanced security and durability compared to soft roll-up covers. They roll up for easy bed access while providing secure protection.
“The LINE-X Eclipse Hard Roll-Up cover features heavy aluminum black powder-coated slats topped with a premium matte black fabric designed to hide dust and dirt,” says Jeff Alderman, Technical Training Manager at LINE-X. “This cover does a great job keeping out rain, snow, and dust, making it an excellent option for various weather conditions.”
4) SOFT FOLDING COVERS: These covers consist of multiple panels typically made from vinyl or canvas, allowing them to fold back in sections. They offer versatility by providing both partial and full bed access as needed.
The LINE-X Swift Tonneau Cover offers a cutting-edge design with an innovative latch system for effortless access. Its single-turn knob allows for easy one-handed operation, ideal for quick access to your truck bed.
5) HARD FOLDING COVERS: Featuring rigid panels made from materials such as aluminum, hard folding covers offer excellent security and weather resistance. They fold up in sections, allowing flexibility in accessing the truck bed.
TheLINE-X Stealth Hard Folding Tonneau Cover combines a sleek design with heavy-duty performance, featuring lightweight aluminum panels and a UV-resistant matte finish. The LINE-X LXP Hard Folding Tonneau Cover offers durable, functional protection with heavy-duty panels for superior weather resistance and security.
6) RETRACTABLE COVERS: Retractable covers retract into a canister located near the cab of the truck, offering complete flexibility in bed access. They are usually made from durable materials like aluminum or polycarbonate, providing both security and ease of use.
“The LINE-X Retractable RS cover features heavy-duty aluminum slats with a scratch-resistant matte black finish and T-slots for customization,” Jeff Alderman explains. “This cover supports over 500 lbs of gear on top, making it ideal for overlanders looking to carry additional equipment.”
7) ONE-PIECE SOLID COVERS: Also known as hinged covers, these covers open and close like a trunk lid. They offer robust security and weather protection, often made from fiberglass or hard plastic, and provide a seamless, integrated look for your truck.
Choosing the right tonneau cover involves considering several factors that align with your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:
If security is your top concern, consider hard folding, retractable, one-piece solid covers, or truck toppers for maximum protection. LINE-X offers options like the Stealth Hard Folding Tonneau Cover and Retractable RS Tonneau Cover, ensuring robust security against theft and weather.
For a good balance of security and functionality, opt for hard folding or hard roll-up covers, like the LXP Hard Folding Tonneau Cover or the Eclipse Hard Roll-Up Tonneau Cover. “Because these covers are hard, they offer a high level of security, keeping valuable cargo locked in,” Alderman notes. “It’s one of the reasons these covers are so popular with truck owners who want extra piece of mind on the road.”
If you need frequent and complete access to your truck bed, consider snap-on, soft roll-up covers, or certain hard/soft folding models. These options provide quick and easy access to your cargo without fully removing the cover.
For frequent use, choose retractable or one-piece solid covers for the easiest operation. The Retractable RS Tonneau Cover from LINE-X features a spiral track-system for smooth retraction into a compact canister, ensuring effortless access whenever needed.
For regular use, hard/soft folding, retractable, or one-piece solid covers provide convenience and durability. These covers offer a good balance between ease of use and security.
If your truck is used for work or off-road adventures, prioritize hard folding, retractable, or one-piece solid covers. These options are built to withstand tough conditions, ensuring long-term durability. “Our Stealth Hard-Folding Cover combines lightweight, heavy aluminum slats with a UV-resistant black finish,” Alderman says. “It’s built to handle rugged conditions, providing long-term protection and durability.”
Retractable covers typically cost more due to their advanced design and ease of use. Opt for snap-on or soft roll-up covers if budget is a primary concern. “Budget is usually at the top of the list for our customers,” Alderman notes. “From there, people tend to prioritize the type of cargo they’re carrying and the warranty, which LINE-X covers for life when professionally installed.”
For a streamlined appearance, consider retractable covers or hard folding covers that sit flush with the truck bed. LINE-X's Stealth Hard-Folding Tonneau Cover blends seamlessly with your truck's design while providing superior protection.
If seeing the cover above the truck bed rails is not an issue, you can try snap-on covers. This type of cover is visible above the truck bed, but still provides essential protection from the elements.
Before purchasing a tonneau cover, it’s a good idea to review any warranty policies for the ones you’re considering. All LINE-X tonneau covers come with a Limited Lifetime End-to-End Warranty when installed by an authorized LINE-X location. This includes warranty service at any LINE-X location across the country.
Once you've reviewed your needs and narrowed your search to one or two styles, it's time to take the next steps. “The only hard part is deciding which one is right for you,” says Alderman. “This depends on your truck model, how you use it, and of course, your budget.”
Contact your local LINE-X dealer to request a personalized quote and speak with LINE-X professionals to answer any remaining questions, ensuring you get the best fit for your truck.
For more information, please visit Tri Folding Tonneau Cover.