There are two primary styles of tonneau covers: hard and soft top tonneau covers. Choosing becomes complicated and confusing due to each option's unique benefits and features. Although they have clear differences, making a decision isn’t always easy.
But don’t worry—this guide has got you covered. This guide will explore the similarities and differences between these two types of covers. Depending on different factors, you will find out which is better and which outperforms the other. You will understand and learn which type would best suit your truck needs.
Hard Top vs. Soft Top Tonneau Covers: Differences and Similarities
You can look at different areas and factors to determine which top cover is best for you. These include:
Durability and Construction
Hard top covers are made of stronger materials, which makes them more solid. These materials include fiberglass, aluminum, and steel. On the other hand, soft top covers are made of more flexible and softer materials. The most common materials for soft top covers are vinyl, nylon, polyester, or fabric. From the materials alone, it’s clear that hard top covers are more durable than soft ones.
Hard top covers can withstand impacts and physical damage. They can even support a certain amount of evenly distributed weight on top. The worst damage you can acquire is a scratch on a hard cover. However, soft covers are prone to tearing and stretching. For instance, if debris falls onto the top or a thief tears through it. Overall, a hard top cover can remain the same structurally because of its durability for a long time.
Aesthetics
Every truck owner wants their truck to look good. Both hard and soft top covers can enhance the overall visuals of a truck. You can get both in your preferred color or finish to match your truck. However, the visual enhancements it can provide for your truck varies.
Hard covers have more rigid shapes and appearances. The reason behind this is because manufacturers craft them from thick and durable materials. Adding to a truck can give your truck a more streamlined and sleeker look. Soft top covers, on the other hand, have softer features because of their materials. They usually have a shiny, black, and fabric look, giving any truck a chic look.
Security Features
Security is an important factor to consider when choosing a bed cover. This ensures that your truck bed and belongings aren’t damaged or stolen. The durability of a cover significantly contributes to its security. Sharp objects can easily cut through soft covers, but other features must be considered.
Most soft covers don’t have locking mechanisms. They can keep your belongings out of sight, but you can’t lock them inside the bed. Any person can easily open them. On the other hand, hard covers have locks, latches, and hinges, making them hard and impossible to access without authorization. This takes security to the next level.
Ease of Access
Hard top covers are more tedious to open and close than soft covers. They’re made of tough and less flexible materials, making them hard to open or fold. This makes access to your bed and belongings harder. However, retractable covers are easy to open, mainly because they’re designed that way. They can be opened and closed with just a click of a button.
On the other hand, soft covers are easy to open, especially soft folding covers. They can be easily folded into portions, and you can get whatever you need quickly. Roll-up covers are also easy to open, but it takes time. It's more tedious since you have to roll up the cover manually. Plus, soft covers are more flexible in accommodating large cargo.
Weather Resistance
Weather elements are some of the most significant issues when maintaining your truck bed and protecting your belongings. You don’t want water and dirt to damage your bed and cargo. That’s why it’s important to check how weatherproof a cover is.
Hard top covers have more weather resistance than soft ones. You can use them even under extreme weather conditions. They can prevent elements from getting inside the bed and damaging your cargo. Whether it’s rain, snow, dirt, hail, or harsh sunlight, hard covers can withstand them for a long time. They even have seals on the sides to prevent water from getting inside.
On the other hand, soft covers are more susceptible to getting damaged by these elements. For instance, they’re prone to damage and discoloration from long, harsh sunlight exposure. They also can’t support the weight of accumulated elements on top for a long time.
Ease of Installation
Although you can install both types without professional help, soft top covers are more accessible. This is because they’re made of lighter materials. They’re easier to lift, carry, and mount during installation, making the whole process much faster and easier.
Hard top covers, on the other hand, weigh more because their materials are more solid and tougher. This makes it harder for them to lift and carry alone. If you plan to DIY, you might need another person’s help to install one. Moreover, some types would be easier to install with professional help.
Cost
The cost of a specific cover will vary greatly depending on your pickup truck's brand, type, and model. Generally, soft top covers cost less and are more affordable. Plus, you won’t need to pay a professional just to install it.
On the other hand, hard top covers are more expensive. This is because of the materials used in their construction. Moreover, the costs associated with professional installation can add up to this cost.
Verdict: Which Is Better?
The better choice depends on many factors. But to generalize, if you need a budget-friendly tonneau cover, go for soft top tonneau covers. They’re more affordable and are durable enough to be used for some time, especially if properly maintained. But a hard top cover is better if durability and security are your top priorities. Just ensure you don’t have a budget to maintain when buying.
To look at actual cover products and models, visit our tonneau cover collection. We offer a wide range of hard and soft covers that can fit various pickup truck models.