Top 5 Best Retractable Tonneau Covers – Reviews And Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

If you own a pickup truck, you obviously appreciate a well-built and strong piece of machinery that can carry a heavy load.

Not only can these durable vehicles carry construction materials, farm animals, and people. Best Retractable Tonneau Covers get you over rough roads and severe weather all while protecting you and your load along the way.

One way to enhance your pickup is to equip it with a retractable tonneau cover to keep your load safe, secure, and protected from the elements. There are several types of Best Retractable Tonneau Covers on the market, and the best one for you all depends on how you plan to use it, what types of loads you carry, and how often you access your truck bed. Here are a few tips on what to look for in the best retractable tonneau cover and a few reviews to help you start shopping.

Key Features

Here are some key features of retractable tonneau covers:

• Ease of use: Retractable tonneau covers are easy to use, with some models featuring electric-powered operation that can be controlled with a key fob. They can be locked into different open positions, allowing you to leave your truck bed partially open when necessary.
• Material: Retractable tonneau covers are typically made of durable materials, such as aluminum and solid polymer. This makes them resistant to damage from the elements and theft.
• Security features: Retractable tonneau covers come with locking mechanisms that provide added security for your cargo. Some models even feature remote keyfobs or their own keys for added convenience.
• Customization options: Retractable tonneau covers offer a range of customization options, such as LED cargo lights and impact-resistant polycarbonate. These features can enhance the functionality and durability of the cover.
• Low profile design: Retractable tonneau covers have a low profile design that gives them a sleek and stylish appearance. They sit flush with the bed rails, providing a seamless look that complements the overall look of your truck.

Retractable tonneau covers offer a range of features to make them easy to use and capable of protecting your cargo. Their ease of use, material, security features, customization options, and low profile design are some of the key features that make them stand out from other types of tonneau covers.

5 Best Retractable Tonneau Covers: Top Picks

#1. Roll-N-Lock LG447M – Best Retractable Tonneau Covers For Dodge Ram 1500

You don’t have to worry about snaps, rolls, bundles, crossbars, or fabric shrinkage with the Roll-N-Lock. Versatile and sophisticated, the Roll-N-Lock keeps your load secure with an interlocking hinge that is joined to the Roll-N-Lock slat.

With the geometry of this specially designed hinge, this retractable tonneau cover is smooth, quiet, and strong that has a compact and non-binding movement. Each slate is inseparably locked together. But when they are yet rotated, there is no contact between the metals.

Using a torsion spring drive contained in a three-inch aluminum reel, you will get many years of reliable use. Simply turn the lock lever to open the Roll-N-Lock. And use the handy built-in pull strap to open the cover. With the ratchet-style locking mechanism, you can latch the cover into place at a fully closed position or at the ¼, ½, and ¾ positions.

The Luxury Choice with a Price Tag to Match

One thing that stands out about this cover is its unique construction. The vinyl-over-aluminum design offers a blend of durability and a classy aesthetic that many truck owners can appreciate.

Moreover, its retractable function is automated, meaning you can open and close the cover with the simple push of a button. Talk about convenience! But, like all things in life, convenience comes at a cost. This one is relatively heavy, which could be a bit tricky during installation and might also add to the overall weight of your truck.

One of my customers was a businessman who often transported goods and wanted a combination of security, convenience, and a pleasing look. He was absolutely smitten by this cover, even though he had to call in some help to get it installed.

#2. RetraxPRO MX – Most Watertight Retractable Tonneau Cover For Ford F150 (09-14)

The RetraxPRO MX is no ordinary tonneau cover. This particular model is built specifically for the Ford F150 and does a commendable job of keeping things watertight. With a product like this, you can face those rainy days with confidence knowing your truck bed’s contents will stay dry.

The first thing that impresses me about the RetraxPRO MX is its aluminum construction. It’s designed to stand up to the rigors of the road while maintaining a sleek, professional look. The matte finish isn’t just for show either, it’s resilient and scratch-resistant. A combination of sturdy and stylish? Count me in!

The cover’s retraction mechanism is noteworthy as well. It operates smoothly, gliding along ball bearings without the need for any joints or hinges that might freeze in the cold. You can lock it in any position too, providing flexibility depending on your cargo needs.

Yet, even the best products have their cons. The price point of the RetraxPRO MX is a bit steep. However, considering its performance and the value it brings, I’d say it’s worth every penny.

To illustrate, there was a customer who often transported delicate equipment that absolutely had to stay dry. He decided to go with the RetraxPRO MX despite the price. Months later, in the midst of the rainy season, he praised his decision, noting how his equipment remained dry even in the heaviest downpours.

Ease of Installation and Operation

Diving further into the features of the RetraxPRO MX, you’ll appreciate its ease of installation. It’s a clamp-on design, meaning you won’t need to whip out your drill. This makes the installation process quite straightforward. However, due to the weight and size of the cover, it’s more convenient with a helping hand.

In terms of operation, the retractable design is smooth and user-friendly. You can open and close the cover with minimal effort, which is a huge plus if you’re constantly accessing your truck bed. The manual operation might not be as fancy as some automatic systems, but it’s reliable and less prone to potential electronic failures.

One truck owner, who was always on the go with different kinds of loads in his truck bed, found the RetraxPRO MX ideal for his lifestyle. He frequently mentioned how much he appreciated the easy-to-use retraction and the ability to position the cover as needed for his varying cargo sizes.

Sturdy yet Lightweight Construction

Perhaps one of the more impressive aspects of the RetraxPRO MX is its construction. The cover is made of heavy-duty aluminum, which offers a great balance of strength and weight. Despite its sturdy construction, it’s relatively lightweight compared to other hardcovers, which helps in maintaining fuel efficiency.

However, with the lightweight construction, one could argue that it’s less resistant to potential impacts. A heavy, direct hit might dent the cover, but such incidents are typically out of the norm for most users.

A friend who takes his truck off-roading was initially skeptical about how this cover would hold up in more demanding conditions. But after several trips through rocky terrains, he was surprised to see that it weathered all conditions while not adding much weight to his vehicle.

Sleek Design with Integrated Trax Rail System

The RetraxPRO MX isn’t just functional, it also enhances the look of your truck. The low-profile design, combined with the matte black finish, gives the vehicle a sleek, modern appearance.

Moreover, this model comes with an integrated Trax Rail System. This provides additional functionality for cargo management and the ability to add compatible accessories. Keep in mind, though, this system might not be beneficial for those who prefer a simple, flat truck bed cover without the additional bells and whistles.

There was a gentleman who needed a tonneau cover for his F150 that was not only reliable but also aesthetically pleasing. He fell in love with the RetraxPRO MX’s sleek design and found the Trax Rail System handy for his bike rack. In his words, this cover was the “perfect blend of style and functionality.”

Impressive Security and Peace of Mind

The RetraxPRO MX is more than just a tonneau cover; it’s also a reliable security system for your truck bed. The aluminum construction, combined with the locking feature, gives you peace of mind knowing your cargo is secure.

One of the noteworthy things about this cover is its flush-mounted design. It integrates so well with the bed that it doesn’t give any room for potential thieves to pry it open. However, remember that while it does add a layer of security, like any lock, it’s not completely theft-proof. Always be mindful of where you park and what you leave in your truck bed.

A small business owner who regularly transported expensive equipment was initially concerned about security. However, the RetraxPRO MX’s solid construction and lock gave him the assurance he needed. He was grateful for the extra layer of security, as it gave him one less thing to worry about on his long business trips.

Outstanding Customer Service

Finally, one of the things that set the RetraxPRO MX apart is the excellent customer service provided by Retrax. They stand by their products and are committed to resolving any issues customers may face. The cover also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, demonstrating the company’s confidence in its product.

However, as with any product, there can be minor issues. Some users have reported slight difficulties with the retraction mechanism over time. Fortunately, these issues are rare and are typically addressed promptly by Retrax’s responsive customer service.

A family man who used his truck for both work and family outings had an issue with the retraction mechanism after a few months of use. He reached out to Retrax, and not only did they guide him on how to rectify the issue, but they also sent replacement parts to ensure the cover was as good as new.

The RetraxPRO MX, with its excellent balance of durability, security, style, and functionality, is a top contender in the world of the best retractable tonneau covers. Its few drawbacks are minor when compared to the multitude of benefits it brings to the table. Whether you need it for work, leisure, or anything in between, this cover is an investment that’s likely to pay off in the long run.

#3. Pace Edwards Switchblade – Best Stylish Retractable Tonneau Cover For Silverado & Sierra

So you won’t have to climb into the bed or walk around your truck to grab the handle.

This model is a bit different, as it comes with a removable canister that provides complete access to the truck bed when needed.

The cover’s design promotes water runoff, making it less likely for water to seep in. However, there’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to operating the retracting mechanism, especially if you’re used to more traditional designs.

A local landscaper had this cover on his truck. Despite frequently loading and unloading heavy equipment, the cover held up well and he appreciated the full access he got by removing the canister.

Easy Installation

Weather-Resistant

With the added durability of ArmorTek, you get high quality and weather-resistant finish. Giving it a soft-top look, this secure cover is able to withstand the elements ensuring long-term use. Using built-in channels, water is funneled down the mounting rails and out of the bed through drain tubes. Featuring a continuous tension spring, the Switchblade smoothly rolls into the canister. But it cannot lock every twelve inches like other bed covers due to its low-profile design.

#4. GatorTrax Retractable tonneau cover – Best Durable Retractable Tonneau Cover For Toyota Tundra

Easy Access

Easy to transport, the durable Gatortrax features a sealed ball bearing that lets you easily access the cover. You also get a unique tracking system that lets you stabilize your load as you drive. Plus, this lightweight cover has a secure locking mechanism to keep your load safe.

Maintenance Free

Able to lock in any position with a key, the GatorTax features sealed ball bearings that need no maintenance and won’t freeze. The spiral track system in the canister has no moving parts so it won’t jam. And the clamp on rails provides an easy installation with no cutting or drilling needed. The compact canister takes up very little space in your truck bed.

Durable and Lightweight

One thing to bear in mind is that this cover may not handle heavy snowfall well. The weight might cause the cover to bow, but this is usually only a concern in regions with particularly harsh winters.

A fellow truck enthusiast from the South, who never had to worry about heavy snow, admired this cover for its sleek design and seamless operation, dubbing it the “smooth operator.”

#5. GatorTrax Retractable Tonneau Cover – Easiest to Install Retractable Tonneau Cover For 2015-2018 Ford F150

Low-Profile Design

Security

The GatorTrax Cover also has a secure lock keeping your load safe while sealed ball bearings allow you to easily close and open the cover. This ball bearing will never freeze and require no maintenance. Plus, the spiral track system on the canister was designed with no moving parts so it will never jam. And the clamp-on rails install without the need for cutting or drilling.

Lightweight and Durable

Constructed out of LEXAN, the same material used to construct the cockpits in a fighter jet, this polycarbonate is lightweight and durable. It can withstand temperatures up to 200℉ as well as moisture and UV rays.

Best Retractable Tonneau Covers – Buying Guide

Protection from the Elements – This is an obvious benefit. When covering your load, you want it all to be protected again from bad weather and to stay secure.

Style – Aesthetics is also a nice benefit as many manufacturers these days design their best retractable tonneau covers so that they look good on your truck. When you choose one of the stylish covers, you can definitely help increase the look of your truck.

Bed Protection – Since the bed of your truck tends to be pretty sensitive, a cover that can protect it is always a plus.

Gas Mileage – Many manufacturers use claim of improved gas mileage when they are selling their retractable tonneau covers. Even though it isn’t actually proven, this can be a huge plus and help keep your monthly gas budget down.

Theft Protection – Cargo tends to be a target for thieves when they see it unprotected. Using the best retractable tonneau covers can help prevent anyone from getting into your truck bed and taking your belongings. If you have one of the best retractable tonneau covers with an integrated locking mechanism, you can easily keep your load secure no matter what position it is in.

Plus, many of the covers today are made of vinyl laminate, hardened plastic, or reinforced aluminum that will keep thieves away. It is always a good idea to keep valuables safe and locked up in the cabin of your truck. Your next best alternative is the protection by a retractable truck bed cover is your best bet.

Conceals Loads– Sometimes you may have a load that you want to keep private or confidential in the back of your truck. Having a retractable tonneau cover can help prevent anyone from knowing what is in your truck.

Versatility – You can cover either a small or large load of cargo with a retractable tonneau cover. As long as it can fit into the bed of the truck of course. A retractable tonneau cover will move easily back and forth on a smoothly designed track that attaches securely to the sides and front of the bed rails.

Most of the Best Retractable Tonneau Covers are able to hold up to five hundred pounds of weight distributed evenly and roll up easily into a storage box. That has a small footprint of between ten and twelve square inches in the front of the truck bed.

Multiple Opening Positions – Best retractable tonneau covers can be secured in several positions along the rails of your bed easily allowing you to make room for large or small cargo while also keeping other gear safes under it. Retracting in just a second, a retractable tonneau cover helps in almost any situation where you need it to be either closed, opened, or partially opened.

Low-Profile & Aerodynamics – Most retractable tonneau covers are able to claim a low profile due to their custom design. Giving your truck a sleek and luxurious look, the exterior will also see an increase in its aerodynamics with many boasting an increase of 10% in fuel efficiency. Depending on the vehicle, not every situation will see the same gains.

Spiral Storage Canister – A spiral track storage canister is one of the reasons these retractable tonneau covers can have a low profile. Integrated into its design, a spiral track storage canister is found at the bulkhead of your truck bed. And usually only takes up between ten and twelve square inches. Sliding on durable sealed bearings, the cover is easily stored securely out of the way and out of any bad weather when it is rolled up.

It’s clear that the best retractable tonneau covers excel in several performance categories. However, it’s important to remember that no product is perfect in every aspect. As a potential buyer, it’s about deciding which performance categories matter most to you and finding a product that excels in those. Each truck owner has unique needs, and the best product is the one that meets those needs most effectively in my view.

What exactly you should look for in most common situations?

Now, in most common situations, here’s what I believe you should focus on:

• If you live in an area with unpredictable weather, pay special attention to the quality of materials and the cover’s ability to protect against elements.
• If you frequently load and unload heavy cargo, look for a cover with a robust and smooth retraction mechanism.
• For those who carry valuable equipment, an added layer of security with an integrated lock can be a game-changer.
• If you’re concerned about the installation process, opt for a model that requires no drilling and comes with clear instructions.

In my personal opinion, choosing the best retractable tonneau cover ultimately comes down to balancing your needs, preferences, and budget. Every situation is unique, so what works best for you may not be the best for someone else. However, keeping these key factors in mind can guide you toward making an informed decision.

Types of Retractable tonneau cover

1. Soft Top Retractable tonneau covers

A classic design is seen that has been seen on many trucks for years, the soft top retractable tonneau cover is typically made from a heavy-duty tarp made of the leather grain. Attaching to the bed with tongue and groove weather stripping, Velcro, or snaps, the soft top cover is available in a folding design that uses a hinged frame that will open in sections.

Other types of Best Retractable Tonneau Covers open by rolling the tarp up against the truck cab. This type of retractable tonneau cover gives you the benefit of having full access to your entire truck bed which is handy when hauling larger cargo.

2. Hard Retractable tonneau covers

While a soft retractable tonneau cover will give you the basics as far as keeping cargo out of sight and weather protection, you can’t beat the complete security you get from a hard retractable tonneau cover.

Locking up with the tailgate of the truck, your load becomes totally safe and secure. It is almost like a huge durable lid for the back of your truck. Which can also be painted and customized to match the rest of your truck.

3. Folding Retractable tonneau covers

A hard retractable tonneau cover tends to be bulky and large. So it might be wise to consider a folding retractable tonneau cover. Using three to five panels, a folding truck bed cover folds together giving you an easier to close and open the truck bed.

You can also get a 5th wheel hitch with some of these products while others will fold all the way to the truck cab. So you have complete access to your truck bed without worrying about removing the cover. Since these covers use a hard-paneled design, it will give you the protection you want from a hard retractable tonneau cover without dealing with the weight of just one piece.

Folding tonneau covers are also available with a handy flip-to-open design that gives you a vinyl tarp look. Using three-panel frames, this folding cover has a slick black vinyl tarp that stretches over the panels for a soft tonneau look. This is a nice affordable option for those truck owners on a budget.

4. Retractable tonneau covers

Featuring a series of narrow planks, retractable tonneau covers close and open like a garage door giving you secure protection for your load as well as durable strength to withstand heavy snow and incredible water sealing.

You also get a low-profile look with a retractable cover due to its in-rail design that fits flush with your truck. A canister sits behind the truck cab to store the cover when it is rolled up.

Available in both electronic and manual designs, retractable tonneau covers are convenient options for those that haul a lot of loads. A manual model will come with positions on the rails that auto-latch letting you lock the cover when it is partially open.

With an electronic retractable cover, you get a canister that is motorized that will roll up the cover automatically. It will also allow it to stop anywhere on the rails while some units come with a remote control so you can open your cover from a distance.

5. Toolbox Retractable tonneau covers

Designed to be just a little shorter than your truck bed, the toolbox retractable tonneau cover will accommodate your over-the-rail truck toolbox. Not only do you get the security and protection you want from the best retractable tonneau covers. But you also get convenient access to your toolbox. You can even find some covers that incorporate the toolbox into its design.

Features of a Best Retractable Tonneau Covers

Materials

Constructed of a unique material that is durable yet flexible enough to roll. All retractable tonneau covers are different but they typically use aluminum planks that fit from one bed rail to another.

Padded polymer vinyl – Offering either a textured or smooth padded vinyl surface that fits over the aluminum cover sections. A padded polymer vinyl cover features a continuous smooth look that doesn’t include the appearance of a sectioned rolling door.

Powder-coated aluminum – Using a heavy-duty powder coat, a powder-coated aluminum cover gives you total corrosion and rust resistance. With a durable finish that can withstand both the hot sun and bitter cold. This material features a great utility style that combines appearance and strength.

Canisters

A retractable tonneau cover will roll up into a sealed canister behind the truck cab keeping you cover clean while it is stored on a spring-loaded roll. These systems also come with a draining system to channel out any moisture that may be on your cover when it is rolled up.

These channels are normally small water lines that run to existing drainage holes in the bottom of the bed. Some may even need minor drilling to create holes that the drain hoses can use.

Rails

A retractable tonneau cover will mount flush inside the rails of your truck bed. Covering the slides entirely without sticking out over the top of the truck bed. Creating the most low-profile truck cover available, it also features smart latching positions on the bed rail that is created to lock the cover part of the way open.

Some of the more basic models will come with pre-set positions at specific intervals to give you a part-open cover use. If you purchase a remote-controlled or motorized retractable tonneau cover, you can stop them at any position along the bed rails. This type of stopping mechanism is perfect when you need partial access to your truck bed for uses like a fifth-wheel hitch.

Security

Providing excellent security, Best Retractable Tonneau Covers have a hardcover design when it is unrolled. Keeping your cargo out of sight, a potential thief will not be able to open without a key. There are some models that have a keyless lock found under the cover. But it can’t be undone unless the tailgate is down.

Your cargo can always be accessed when you drop the tailgate since retractable tonneau covers don’t cover the tailgate or lock it.

Keep in mind while this is a handy feature, you can’t completely secure your load unless your tailgate can lock. You can even find some models that have a wireless keychain remote for simple one-touch unlocking and locking that can actually be wired into your vehicle door-locking system.

Weather Protection

If you live in snow-prone areas, remember to sweep or brush snow off your cover before you open it. If you leave the snow on it and then coil the cover, the snow will fall into your truck bed and all over your load. It can also cause moisture to get into the lidded canister and the planks which can cause the moving parts to break down over time.

If you deal with a lot of snow and rain, you don’t have to worry about your retractable tonneau cover opening, but it will help if you choose one with powder-coated aluminum planks for areas that see severe winter weather. Either a powder-coated or padded polymer Best Retractable Tonneau Covers will work for those living in milder climates.

Low-Profile

There are degrees of low-profile designs when considering a retractable tonneau cover. All of them will sit flush with your truck bed rails, however, some come with canisters that sit higher in your truck bed. You need a model with a sunken canister that sits low in your truck bed to have a completely flush retractable tonneau cover.

Considerations When Choosing Best Retractable Tonneau Covers

What if you need to take the cover off?

You may have to take your retractable tonneau cover off depending on how you will use the cover. If you have severe conditions that require taking the cover off at specific times of the year or you have to carry a larger item that needs to use the entire bed of the truck, make sure to choose a cover that is easy to install and remove.

Otherwise, you will spend a lot of your time installing the cover over and over again. Remember that if you know you will be keeping your cover on most of the time, then the installation process won’t matter as much.

What if your truck has a bed liner?

If you have a bed liner on your truck, it can affect whether or not you need a retractable cover. Depending on whether the bed liner is under or above your rail can cause issues for your retractable tonneau cover. If it is over the rail, you could have issues installing it since it won’t fit as tightly as you will want.

If the bed liner is under the rail, you won’t have any issues installing a retractable tonneau cover. Make sure to check the measurements of your cover if you do have a bed liner and also see the bed liner in person if you’re aren’t sure of the measurements. When choosing a retractable tonneau cover when you have a bed liner, it is always better to buy the cover from an actual store and not online.

Do they need a lot of maintenance?

Any type of truck bed cover will need to be cleaned. But, if you have a hard retractable cover, you will have to clean it more often. You will also have to regularly clean the canister and rails of a retractable tonneau cover. Plus since they close and open, they will easily pick up debris, grim, and dirt. So it is important to keep up regular maintenance to make it works properly. Other types of covers will not need to be cleaned as often.

The essential equipment you may need when working with the best retractable tonneau covers

Equipment	Purpose
Ratchet Set	Used for tightening bolts and nuts during installation of the cover.
Torque Wrench	Ensures proper tightness of bolts and nuts without over-tightening.
Screwdriver Set	Used for attaching smaller components.
Tape Measure	Useful for checking the size of the truck bed and the cover for proper fitment.
Level	To ensure that the tonneau cover is properly aligned during installation.
Clamp Set	Assists in holding the cover in place during installation.
Protective Gloves	Safeguards hands from potential scratches or cuts during the installation process.
Weather Stripping (optional)	Can be used to improve the weather seal in some models.
Silicone Lubricant (optional)	Can be used to keep the retraction mechanism operating smoothly.
Utility Knife (optional)	Can be used to trim excess weather stripping or other minor adjustments.

Remember, before starting any installation process, it’s essential to thoroughly read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures a successful installation and optimal performance of the tonneau cover.

Other Considerations

Since the variations between retractable tonneau covers tend to be slight, they can still make a big difference in your enjoyment of the bed cover. Depending on the type of material, the latching points, and how well the locking mechanism is, your cover can either be a convenient addition to your truck bed or a waste of money.

Also, remember the other features like remote controls and fully motorized retractable tonneau covers that can make them even handier. When choosing the Best Retractable Tonneau Covers, also consider:

• What low-profile design degree do you prefer?
• How severe is the weather in your area?
• Can a remote control benefit how you use the retractable tonneau cover on your truck?
• Would a toolbox retractable tonneau cover be useful for you?

Conclusion

Choosing the best retractable tonneau covers for your truck bed is easier than you think. Make sure you know how you plan to use it, what low-profile design you like the best, and what features you want on your cover. Once you know what you are looking for, you shouldn’t have any problem finding the best retractable tonneau cover for you and your truck.

Manufacturer resources based

1. Retrax https://www.retrax.com. It is one of my top recommendations when it comes to best retractable tonneau covers. They offer a variety of models with distinct features. Their site provides detailed product information, installation guides, and even videos to assist you. I also appreciate their comprehensive FAQs and responsive customer service.
2. Pace Edwards https://www.pace-edwards.com. It is another reputable manufacturer with a broad range of retractable covers. Their website showcases the different materials, designs, and mechanisms they offer, allowing you to find a product tailored to your needs. In my opinion, their resource center with articles on product care and maintenance is quite beneficial.
3. Roll-N-Lock https://rollnlock.com. It offer high-quality retractable tonneau covers with a focus on security. They have a variety of options to choose from, each with detailed descriptions and specifications. I find their blog section insightful as it provides useful tips and knowledge about truck bed covers and other related topics.

Remember to thoroughly research and compare the features of various models from different manufacturers to find the retractable tonneau cover that best suits your needs and preferences.

FAQs