Picking out the ideal tonneau cover for your truck can be an overwhelming task with so many options to choose from. As an avid truck owner and auto accessory aficionado, I have tried numerous tonneau covers over the years on my RAM 1500 to find ones that truly protect my cargo, maintain my truck’s fuel efficiency, and most importantly – require minimal effort to operate on a daily basis.
After much research and testing, I have narrowed down the five best automatic retractable tonneau covers that provide unmatched protection and convenience:
- RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Pace Edwards SWFA05A28 Switchblade Retractable Tonneau Cover
- Truxedo Titanium Hard Rolling Tonneau Cover
- RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Below is a comparison of the key features of these retractable tonneau covers:
Product | Material | Locking Positions | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|
RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Aluminum slats | Any | Limited lifetime |
Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Aluminum slats | Any | 3 years |
Pace Edwards SWFA05A28 Switchblade Retractable Tonneau Cover | Aluminum slats | Any | 3 years |
Truxedo Titanium Hard Rolling Tonneau Cover | Aluminum slats | Any | Limited lifetime |
RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Aluminum slats | Any | Limited lifetime |
Top 5 Automatic Tonneau Covers Reviews
RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Overall Automatic Tonneau Cover
Searching for the perfect balance between unbeatable protection, flawless security, and sheer convenience? Look no further than the RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – the best overall retractable tonneau cover money can buy.
With its aircraft-grade aluminum slats, you can rest assured your cargo stays bone dry and safe from prying eyes. The low-profile matte-black finish blends seamlessly with any truck bed for that stealthy, integrated look.
I absolutely love the rack and pinion drive system on the RetraxPRO MX. It allows me to lock the cover at any position along the rails with just the push of a button. Opening and closing this roll-up cover is smoother than butter.
The reinforced panels and sturdy construction give me the confidence to pile on cargo without worrying about sagging or damage. Top that off with long-lasting UV and scratch resistance, and you’ve got a cover that can withstand the daily wear and tear of rugged use.
Installing the RetraxPRO took me less than 20 minutes with the included clamps and pre-drilled rails. The cover lined up perfectly flush with my truck bed right off the bat.
With unmatched strength, protection, and ease of use, the RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover takes the crown for best overall retractable tonneau cover. It lets me access my truck bed quickly and securely whenever I need it.
Pros:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum panels are durable and protect cargo
- Rack and pinion drive allows locking cover at any point
- Low-profile matte black finish looks great
- Smooth automatic opening and closing
- UV and scratch resistant
- Easy 20-minute installation
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- Slightly heavier than vinyl covers
Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Retractable Tonneau Cover for Security
For truck owners who prioritize cargo security above all else, the Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is the best retractable tonneau cover money can buy.
This tri-fold cover uses aircraft-grade aluminum slats that retract smoothly into an impenetrable storage canister at the front of the bed. The tamper-resistant latches keep your cargo fully enclosed and out of sight when locked.
I love that the Roll-N-Lock allows me to partially retract the cover to quickly access items near the cab without fully removing the entire cover. This comes in handy when I need to grab tools or other small items often.
Installing the LG107M took me around 45 minutes since the rail system spans the entire perimeter of the bed. The good news is that the secure mounting results in zero moisture seepage or flapping in high winds.
The low-profile frame sits flush with the bed rails for that stealthy look I dig. For an added layer of security, I toss a rugged canvas over the retracted cover to conceal it completely before heading off-road.
Overall, the Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is the ultimate retractable cover for truck owners who put a premium on cargo security above all else. The tamper-resistant locks and durable aluminum build make it well worth the investment.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty aluminum provides unmatched security
- Locks fully enclose and conceal cargo
- Allows partial retraction for quick access
- Flush low-profile look
- 45-minute perimeter mount installation
Cons:
- Premium price for maximum security
- Partial retraction less convenient than full rolling access
Pace Edwards SWFA05A28 Switchblade Retractable Tonneau Cover – Best Value Automatic Tonneau Cover
Truck owners searching for the perfect blend of security, durability, and affordability need look no further than the Pace Edwards SWFA05A28 Switchblade Retractable Tonneau Cover.
This retractable cover strikes the ideal balance between quality construction and reasonable price making it the best value for money.
The rugged aircraft-grade aluminum panels glide smoothly along the bed rails retracting into a canister behind the cab. The low-profile matte-black finish maintains a factory look that fits seamlessly with the truck bed.
What sets the Switchblade apart is the integrated tailgate seal that keeps out even the smallest moisture or debris. Opening and closing the cover only takes a few seconds with the spring-assisted design doing all the heavy lifting for you.
Installing the Switchblade took around 30 minutes with the included C-clamps. Just position, tighten down, and adjust the tension. This quick install is perfect for the truck owner who doesn’t want to spend their whole Saturday sweating in the driveway.
For truck owners unwilling to compromise on quality but not looking to shell out big bucks, the Pace Edwards SWFA05A28 Switchblade Retractable Tonneau Cover is undoubtedly the best value retractable tonneau cover available today. The ease of installation and durable construction make this cover a winner.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty aluminum panels at a great price
- Low-profile matte black finish
- Integrated tailgate seal keeps out debris
- Smooth spring-loaded retracting
- 30-minute simple C-clamp installation
Cons:
- Not as heavy-duty as premium models
- Limited manufacturer warranty period
Truxedo Titanium Hard Rolling Tonneau Cover – Most Durable Automatic Tonneau Cover
For truck owners searching for an automatic tonneau cover tough enough to withstand years of rugged use, look no further than the Truxedo Titanium Hard Rolling Tonneau Cover. This tri-fold cover sets the standard for durability.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum slats over a reinforced ABS composite frame, the Titanium shrugs off snow, road debris, and UV rays. The low-profile aerodynamic frame maintains your truck’s factory look and fuel efficiency.
The flush-mount rails install in minutes with no drilling required. Just clamp and roll the cover closed to conceal and secure your cargo with the stainless-steel latch.
I especially like that Truxedo built the Titanium with ease of use in mind. Opening and closing the cover takes just a few seconds by simply rolling it toward the cab. The spring-loaded design does the heavy lifting for you.
Plus, the Titanium looks as good as it performs thanks to the sleek matte-black finish that blends with any truck bed.
For truck owners who need an automatic cover tough enough to handle the daily rigors of work and play, the Truxedo Titanium Hard Rolling Tonneau Cover is hands-down the most durable and hassle-free choice. This cover will go the distance.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty aluminum and ABS composite construction
- Low-profile aerodynamic frame
- Flush mount rails install in minutes
- Conceals cargo with stainless steel latch
- Smooth spring-loaded rolling operation
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Vinyl covers have greater UV resistance
RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Rolling Tonneau Cover
Truck owners seeking the pinnacle of convenience need look no further than the RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover. This smooth-rolling retractable cover makes accessing your truck bed effortless.
Built from industrial-grade aluminum slats over a powder-coated steel frame, the RetraxONE MX handles years of daily use and weather exposure. The low-profile matte-black housing maintains that sleek factory look.
I love how securely the cover seals along the full perimeter of the bed using durable vinyl seals. Just flip the latches and roll open the cover to reveal the entire truck bed without obstruction.
The speed-activated autoretract feature is perfect for the busy truck owner. Just pull the cover closed and the RetraxONE locks it down and retracts it automatically with no button pushing needed.
Installing the RetraxONE took me less than 20 minutes with the included C-clamps. Adjusting the latch tension dials eliminates sag or moisture infiltration over time.
With its unmatched ease of use and durable construction, the RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover takes first place as the best rolling retractable tonneau cover available today. Forget messing with snaps or folding panels – this cover rolls open and closed in seconds.
Pros:
- Industrial aluminum and steel construction
- Autoretract feature for convenience
- Full perimeter bed seal protection
- 20-minute simple installation
- Matte-black low-profile housing
Cons:
- Higher cost than vinyl covers
- Not as theft-proof as fully locking covers
Why You Should Trust Us
As a lifelong truck owner and auto accessory specialist, I’ve spent years researching, testing, and reviewing truck tonneau covers of all types. I’m obsessed with finding covers that perfectly blend security, protection, durability, and ease of use.
For this article, I evaluated over 20 of the industry’s top retractable tonneau covers based on real customer reviews, expert opinions, and hours of hands-on testing. I pulled together this definitive guide to help fellow truck owners cut through the noise and find their ideal automatic tonneau cover.
Who This Is For
Retractable tonneau covers are perfect for truck owners who:
- Prioritize keeping cargo secure and concealed
- Want quick and easy access to the truck bed
- Regularly haul exposed cargo that needs protection
- Desire the convenience of open-bed access for larger items
- Seek the improved gas mileage of a covered truck bed
An automatic retractable cover is ideal for those unwilling to compromise on cargo protection but who dread the hassle of unsnapping a rigid lid or folding a tri-fold. Ditch the tonneau cover struggles and enjoy effortless access.
How to Choose the Best Automatic Tonneau Cover?
With so many retractable truck bed covers on the market, narrowing down the right one for your needs can feel overwhelming. Here are key factors to consider:
Truck Compatibility – Ensure the cover model matches the make, model, and year of your truck. Measure bed dimensions to confirm sizing.
Cover Material – Vinyl covers have good durability at lower cost but aluminum or fiberglass offer greater impact resistance.
Security Features – Look for locking mechanisms and tamper-resistant latches if security is a priority.
Weatherproofing – Perimeter seals, integrated tailgate seals, and resistance to UV rays ensure your cargo stays dry.
Ease of Use – Rolling and retracting covers provide the ultimate convenience over folding and snap-down models.
Warranty – A 1-3 year manufacturer warranty gives you peace of mind on your investment.
Price – Retractable covers range from $400 on the low end to $1500+ for premium models. Set a realistic budget.
Expert Tips for Choosing an Automatic Tonneau Cover
Take these tips from the pros to make the right tonneau cover decision:
- Measure bed dimensions first rather than relying on generic sizing
- Avoid cheap covers that can warp, leak, and degrade quickly
- Consult manufacturer ratings for load capacities if hauling heavy cargo
- Account for side rails or tool boxes that may interfere with cover installation
- For softer covers, periodically clean and condition the vinyl to improve longevity
- Preferably install your cover on a warmer 50+ degree day for easier manipulation
- Follow all manufacturer instructions to avoid voiding the warranty
- Park in the shade whenever possible to minimize sun damage over time
- Periodically inspect seals and lubricate hinges to prevent rust or wear and tear
Other Related Products/Accessories to Consider
To get the most from your new automatic tonneau cover, here are some handy accessories:
Tonneau Cover Cleaner – Keep your cover looking like new and improve longevity.
Tonneau Cover Conditioner – Maintain, protect, and condition vinyl covers.
Bed Mat – Protect your truck bed from scratches and add a non-slip surface.
Cargo Bars/Dividers – Secure awkward or shifting cargo safely under your cover.
Truck Bed Storage – Safely access tools, gear, and cargo inside the truck bed.
Tailgate Seal – Add secondary protection from dust and moisture getting in the cracks.
FAQs: Best Automatic Tonneau Covers
Q: Are automatic tonneau covers secure?
Yes, most retractable tonneau covers use heavy-duty aluminum or vinyl panels that fully enclose and conceal your truck bed contents with locking latches to prevent theft and tampering.
Q: How much gas will a tonneau cover save?
Adding a soft or hard tonneau cover can improve your truck’s gas mileage by 8-10% on average. Retractable covers with low-profile designs optimize fuel economy.
Q: Should I get a roll-up or tri-fold tonneau?
Roll-up covers require minimal effort to roll open but tri-folds tend to be more affordable. Retractable tonneau covers offer the convenience of roll-ups with enhanced security.
Q: How hard is it to install a retractable tonneau cover?
Most retractable covers take 30-60 minutes to install with basic tools and no drilling using C-clamps or fastening rails. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Q: How long do tonneau covers last?
With proper care and maintenance, both soft vinyl and hard retractable tonneau covers typically last 4-8 years on average before needing replacement. Higher-priced aluminum covers last the longest.
Q: Should I get a soft or hard tonneau cover?
Hard covers of aluminum or fiberglass provide greater security and durability but soft vinyl covers cost less while still protecting from weather and theft. Both have pros and cons.
Q: Can you stand on a tonneau cover?
No, standing on a soft cover will likely result in dents and damage. Some hard covers may hold weight but check your manufacturer’s weight rating to avoid voiding the warranty.
Q: Will a tonneau cover work with a toolbox?
Yes, but ensure you measure and account for toolboxes when selecting a cover. Some covers may need additional hardware for toolbox installation.
Q: Does opening and closing a retractable cover require a lot of effort
No, premium retractable covers are designed with easy rolling or automated retracting requiring minimal physical effort to open and close smoothly.