Top 5 Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Covers – Reviews And Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Trucks are not only a cool means of transportation, but it’s also a great way to move a good amount of things at a time. That being said, it’s most likely that protecting the contents of your truck bed is important to you.

Buying a tri-fold tonneau cover is the best way to ensure that your things are guarded. There are so many styles and brands out there that it can be hard to decide which tri-fold truck bed cover is right for you. To help set you on the right path, I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best tri-fold tonneau covers and a how-to guide on buying one for your truck!

Key Features

Tri-fold tonneau covers are a popular choice for truck owners who want to protect their cargo from the elements and theft. Here are some key features of tri-fold tonneau covers based on the search results:

• Material: Tri-fold tonneau covers can be made of different materials, such as aluminum, marine-grade vinyl, and hard-composite plastic. The material used can affect the durability, weight, and price of the cover.
• Ease of installation: Tri-fold tonneau covers can be easy to install and remove, with some models coming pre-assembled for quick and easy installation.
• Bed length compatibility: Tri-fold tonneau covers can be designed to fit different bed lengths and truck models. It is important to ensure that the cover you choose is compatible with your truck’s bed length.
• Security features: Some tri-fold tonneau covers come with security features, such as locks and rotational locking rails, to protect your cargo from theft.
• Aesthetic appeal: Tri-fold tonneau covers can offer a sleek and stylish appearance that complements the overall look of your truck. Some models even come with features like vinyl covers that add to the visual appeal.

Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Covers: Top Picks

#1. Tyger Auto T3 – Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover For Silverado

Before installing your tri-fold tonneau cover, make sure that your truck bed had been thoroughly cleaned.

Features

If you’re worried about highway driving, the T3 comes equipped with pre-assembled crossbars that add durability and strength to your cover. With its stainless steel clamps, the Tyger Auto T3 holds up against heavy rains and keeps your truck bed dry.

Tyger Auto cares about you and your tri-fold tonneau cover. To make sure you’re covered, Tyger Auto offers a Limited Lifetime warranty.

My Journey With the Tyger Auto Tonneau Cover

I’ve been a truck owner for over 10 years now, ever since I bought my first Chevy Silverado back in college. I use my truck for work, hauling equipment and materials to job sites, so protecting the bed has always been a priority. When my last basic snap-on tonneau cover finally wore out, I started researching replacements and came across the Tyger Auto T3 soft tri-fold cover. The price seemed unbeatable and the reviews were fantastic, so I decided to give it a try.

Installation was a piece of cake. I’m pretty handy, but this cover went on easier than just about any truck accessory I’ve installed. The clamps slide right into the rails and tighten down with a quick twist. I also secured the safety straps, just for some extra protection in case the clamps ever came loose.

That first test drive after installing the cover felt great. With the cover folded up, my truck looked slick and streamlined. No more worries about rain or leaves filling the truck bed! I did miss being able to quickly glance back and see my cargo, but the tri-fold design made that easy enough when needed.

I’ll admit I babied the cover a bit that first week, not wanting to scratch or scuff it up. But it held up fine to the occasional brush against lumber or an overhanging tree branch. The vinyl cover material seems really durable, yet flexible enough to fold and unfold daily without cracking.

After a few big storms, I checked for leaks and was pleased to find the entire bed stayed bone dry. The cover seals up tight when the rear clamps are cinched down. I do wish it had a locking mechanism to deter any tempted thieves, but the safety straps prevent it from being opened very far when locked.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been thrilled with this Tonneau cover purchase. The quality rivals much pricier covers, and I love the smooth, low-profile look on my truck. I can quickly fold it back partially or fully whenever I need total bed access. It keeps my gear safe from sun, rain, leaves and prying eyes. For the price, I couldn’t ask for better! This Tyger Auto cover was the perfect upgrade for my Chevy.

I believe the Tyger Auto T3 is great if you’re looking for something that’s cheap and will last. I would recommend the T3 if you’re looking to stay low-key and save some money. Not only is it affordable, but the lightweight design will boost your fuel economy. That’ll save you some money in the long run.

#2. Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold – Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover For Dodge Ram

Features

What’s great about the Gator ETX is it was manufactured in the USA and is backed with a 10-year warranty. It’s designed to add a supported level of protection for your cargo.

The sleek and durable design of the Gator ETX will give your truck a low-profile appearance that in turn provides more privacy and security.

The Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover, model 59421, is a fantastic addition to the 2019 – 2023 Dodge Ram series. As a user, I’ve experienced its multitude of benefits firsthand, but it’s also fair to acknowledge a few areas where there could be room for improvement.

Strong Points: Protection and Durability

What impressed me most was the Gator ETX’s ability to provide excellent protection for cargo. Rain or shine, it effectively kept the elements at bay, ensuring whatever was stored in the truck bed remained dry and safe. Additionally, the cover’s durability is top-notch. It’s made of tear-resistant vinyl supported by an aluminum frame – a sturdy material choice that guarantees longevity. The latch mechanism, which secures the cover onto the bed, was also quite robust and reliable.

Style and Installation Ease

Style-wise, the Gator ETX is sleek and low-profile, providing an aesthetic appeal that seamlessly integrates with the Dodge Ram’s overall design. Also, the installation process is a breeze. It doesn’t require any drilling or use of specialized tools, and the instructions are straightforward and easy to follow. It’s practically a plug-and-play situation; within 10 to 15 minutes, the cover was on and ready to serve its purpose.

Minor Downsides

While it’s mostly a gem, there are a few minor gripes I have with the Gator ETX. The tailgate seal could be improved for better water tightness. In a particularly heavy downpour, I did notice a tiny bit of water seepage. It wasn’t enough to cause any real damage, but it’s worth considering if you live in an area with frequent heavy rain.

Also, while the tri-fold design is great for quick and easy access to your cargo, it does limit the usability of the full bed when the cover is on. In a situation where you need to haul larger items that protrude above the bed’s height, you’ll have to completely remove the cover.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, despite a couple of minor issues, the Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is a fantastic investment for any Dodge Ram owner. It strikes a great balance between aesthetics, durability, and function.

Whether it’s protecting your tools during a sudden rainstorm or adding an extra level of security for your cargo, this cover proves itself to be a reliable and valuable addition. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly if you need to transport taller items!

I’d recommend the Gator ETX if you’re looking for something super affordable and easily installed. Despite its cheap price, the GatorETX is a tough, strong tri-fold tonneau cover that’ll fit your truck comfortably.

#3. MaxMate Tri-Fold – Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover For Ford F-150

Features

The stainless steel clamps are sturdy and are a bit stronger to make sure your cover stays connected to your truck. MaxMate offers a 10-year warranty in that case that something happens to your tonneau cover.

Not to mention, the illustrious design of the MaxMate Tri-Fold creates an eye-catching appearance and its weatherproof material keeps your truck bed dry through tough storms.
To make sure your MaMate Tri-Fold stays water-resistant, keep your sealing surfaces clean with a silicone lubricant.

Thoughts

#4. Tonno Pro Tonno Fold – Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover for Dodge Rams

The Tonno Pro Tonno Fold 42-200 package includes:

• Tonno Torch Detachable LED Bed Light that can be installed anywhere.
• Pro-Clean Tonneau Cover Cleaner that protects the tonneau from UV rays.
• SureSeal Tailgate Seal that keeps your truck bed dry.
• Pro Gloves that fit comfortably in the glove compartment.

Thoughts

The Tonno Fold 42-200 is the smart choice if you’re looking for something unique, stylish, and secure. In this world, you get what you pay for and that can definitely be said for the Tonno Pro.

If you’re not looking to spend a bunch of time dealing with your truck bed cover, the Tonno Fold 42-200 is easy to use and super easy to clean.

#5. BAKFlip G2 – Best Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover For Silverado

Features

The BAKFlip G2 offers superior protection against theft with its solid core, double-sided, aluminum panels.

Because of their easy-to-use, no-drill clamps, the BAKFlip G2 takes less than an hour to install.

Thoughts

Overall, I believe the BAKFlip G2 is the smartest choice as far as giving you complete truck bed access. It’s the best choice if you want something with more protection against theft.

To top it off, the G2 is one of the highest-ranking covers in America and you’re covered with a 2-year warranty. The BAKFlip G2 will have you standing apart from the crowd is its high-quality material is worth every penny.

Best Tri-Fold Tonneau Covers – Buyer’s Guide

Tri-fold truck bed covers offer a wide range of uses for your truck. It’s a decorative piece, security measure, and an added level of protection for your truck bed. Finding the right cover for you can be a bit overwhelming with all the name brands and styles there are.

This buyer’s guide will map out the different types of truck covers and how to choose the right tri-fold truck cover for you. We’ll also explore the helpful tips on maintaining your tri-fold tonneau cover so that you get the most out of your investment.

Styles And Types

Now, there are two styles that tri-fold tonneau covers come in: hard and soft. Choosing between the two is really based on your own preferences. They each have their ups and downs.

Hard Tonneau Covers

Hard truck bed covers are built to last and are more reliable. They’re perfect if you’re in need of something super secure. Though they’re more expensive, hard tonneau covers are better suited for protection against theft and pressing weather conditions.

Depending on which style you choose, your truck bed cover will either roll up or fold up. Neither is better than the other but it’s important to understand the differences between each.

Roll up

• Hard roll-up covers give you full access to your bed without removing the cover.
• This will make moving larger loads easier.
• They’re usually made out of tough vinyl and strong aluminum frames.
• They add top-notch security for your truck bed with unique styling made to fit your truck.

Fold up

• Hard fold-up tonneau covers are designed with panels that can be folded on top of one another.
• Most come equipped with fastening buckles so that you can leave your truck cover as open as you like.
• Hard fold-ups are stronger and slightly more expensive.

Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Covers

Much like the hard tonneau covers, soft covers add more protection against severe weather conditions and UV rays. They’re cost-friendly and the lightweight material will boost your fuel economy which will save you money in the long run.

Roll up

• Soft roll-ups are best if you need something inexpensive but first-rate.
• There is the technology that will allow you to roll up your cover as much as you want with just a click of a button.
• Soft roll-up covers are extremely easy to use.

Fold up

• The panels are built on metal frames that fold and unfold with ease.
• You can fold the cover-up against your rear window for complete bed access when you need it.
• There are fastening straps so that you can drive with your cover partially open.

Again, neither is better than the other. Your choice is dependant on your personal opinions and needs.

Measuring Your Truck Bed

Before you go out to buy a tri-fold tonneau cover, you need to accurately measure out your truck bed. This is super important because if you rush into buying a cover without proper measurements, you’ll get the wrong size and end up spending double to get a new one.

Tri-fold truck bed covers are meant to fit comfortably on your truck bed.

Be advised that most advertised lengths can differ by one or two inches. Don’t be afraid to triple-check your measurements.

Benefits Of Having A Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

There’s no denying that tri-fold tonneau covers give your truck a sleek, new edge. Besides being visually appealing, tonneau covers offer many hidden features that every truck owner should know.

Fuel efficiency

If you’re driving around with an open truck bed, the wind blows over the cab and into your bed against the tailgate. This causes a drag that forces you to press on the gas to maintain your speed.
The aerodynamic design of a tri-fold tonneau cover generates less air drag which could save you up to 20% in gas mileage.

Security

I’m sure we’ve all heard the saying out of sight, out of mind. Having a tri-fold tonneau cover will ensure that your belongings remain private to the public. Some tri-fold truck bed covers even come with some form of locking mechanism to give your truck maximum protection.

Weather protection

If you don’t have a garage, this may be useful, especially to you. Tri-fold tonneau covers are the perfect means of defense against harsh weather conditions such as snow, rain, hail, etc.

Also, tonneau covers will protect your things from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Easy to use

As we mentioned before, tri-fold tonneau covers will either fold or roll up, and working them can be pretty simple. They don’t take that long to set up or take down so you won’t have to worry about spending too much time fidgeting with them.

Potential Drawbacks Of Buying A Tonneau Cover

Like anything, there are some drawbacks to owning a tri-fold truck bed cover. It’s important that you understand them before you decide if you want one or not.

Price

The cost of a tri-fold tonneau cover can be one of the biggest drawbacks of getting one. Price can, of course, vary by brand but most tonneau covers can range anywhere from $200 to $1000.

Make sure you do thorough research on the different brands so that you get the most for your money.

Difficulty installing

Installing a tri-fold tonneau cover can seem like a scary thing to do if you’re not used to it. Calling a professional to help install your cover could be the best choice. There are some truck covers that require a drill.

If that’s not something you’re into, then look into tri-fold tonneau covers that come equipped with clamps.

Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover Maitenance

Cleaning and maintaining your tri-fold truck bed cover is a sure way to get the most out of your purchase. Most truck owners tend to neglect this part of having a truck cover. Mostly because cleaning one takes time and can seem tedious after a while.

Trust me when I say that cleaning your tri-fold tonneau cover is very important and will preserve its quality material.

Soap and water

You can wash your tri-fold truck bed covers with warm water and soap. Make sure that you thoroughly rinse away all of the soap so it doesn’t build up and damage the surface.

Your tonneau cover can be washed by hand or you can take it through the car wash.

Vinyl protectant

There are special vinyl protectants that are specifically designed to clean tri-fold tonneau covers. These protectants will clean out the dirt and grime and leave your truck cover with a great shine.

Questions To Ask Yourself When Buying A Tonneau Cover

Before you buy a tri-fold truck bed cover, you should create a mental list of things that will guide you toward buying the best cover for you.

How much are you willing to spend?

Because tri-fold tonneau covers can be a little bit pricey, you should create a budget for yourself so you don’t break the bank. Tonneau covers can cost between $200-$1000.

Already know what you’re willing to spend before you go galavanting into the world of truck bed covers.

Why do you want the tonneau cover?

Ask yourself, what’s your purpose in buying a tri-fold tonneau cover? Are you looking for something with more security? Or do you want something that’ll make your truck stand out?

Figuring this out will help you narrow down your choices and pick the tri-fold tonneau cover best suited to fit your needs.

How are you going to install your tonneau cover?

Some tri-fold tonneau covers require drilling and can need an extra pair of hands to set up. Other covers have stainless steel or plastic clamps that will keep your truck bed cover in place.

That being said, tonneau covers can take as little as 10 minutes to set up. Knowing how you’re going to install your cover will make choosing one a little easier.

Do you need full access to your truck bed?

If you use your truck bed often, then you’ll want something that can be removed easily or can roll up comfortably against the back window. Being aware of this will help you decide between choosing a roll-up or a fold-up cover.

Summary

I thank you guys for sticking with me this far and I hope I’ve been able to teach you something about a thing or two.

Adding a tonneau cover to your truck is a great way to give it a little fashion and protection. There are so many brands and styles that it can be hard to keep up with.

Before doing my own research, I had no idea how much thought and research goes into finding a tonneau cover. There may be 1,000 people out there who like this certain tonneau cover but it doesn’t mean that’s the cover for you.

After reading this article, hopefully, you feel more prepared to buy a tonneau cover tailored to your specific needs.

Though all 5 of the tonneau covers we went through are pretty great, I think I would personally recommend buying the Tyger Auto T3 for the following reasons:

• It’s affordable and it gets the job done. You get more than what you pay for with this cover.
• Through all of my research, I found that the T3 is one of the most talked-about tonneau covers around.
• It’s sturdy and reliable and takes 2 seconds to install.

But that’s only my opinion. I think you’re well-equipped now to go out and find the best tri-fold tonneau cover for YOU!

Frequently Asked Questions