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5 Different Types of Tonneau Covers: Which One Is Right for You?

Author: Fayella

Aug. 04, 2025

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5 Different Types of Tonneau Covers: Which One Is Right for You?

What are Tonneau Covers?

Tonneau covers are protective coverings for pickup truck beds. They offer a variety of benefits, including:

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  • Security: Tonneau covers shield your cargo from theft and prying eyes.

  • Weather Protection: They guard your belongings from rain, snow, sun damage, and dust.

  • Improved Aerodynamics: A smooth tonneau cover can enhance fuel efficiency by reducing wind drag.

  • Enhanced Appearance: Tonneau covers give your pickup a clean and finished look.

Importance of Choosing the Right Type

With a wide range of tonneau covers available, selecting the perfect tonneau cover depends on your individual needs and preferences. In order to choose the right tonneau cover, you should consider factors like:

  • Frequency of Use: If you frequently access your truck bed, a cover with easy access might be crucial.

  • What other pickup accessories you may want or require.

  • Security Needs: For valuable cargo, a more secure hard cover might be preferable.

  • Climate: If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, a durable and weather-resistant cover is essential.

  • Budget: Tonneau covers come in a range of prices depending on material, features, and complexity.

RealTruck Tonneau Covers

At RealTruck, we offer both an electric and manual roll cover to suit your unique needs, including:

RealTruck's EVOm isn't just a cover, it's a statement. It embraces excellence in design with its infinity design, offering a sleek, seamless look. Effortless operation lies at its core. Simply push to open and pull to secure, redefining both the aesthetics and accessibility of your pickup in one smooth motion.

Discover the EVOm difference:

  • Effortless operation, unmatched security. Forget fumbling with keys or complicated latches. The EVOm manual roll cover operates with a smooth, manual push, granting you instant access to your gear while keeping it securely stowed away.

  • Built to endure, crafted from high-strength aluminium and finished with a premium OE-grade powder coat, the EVOm is as tough as it is stylish. It can handle anything you throw at it, from scorching sun to pounding rain.

  • Tailored for adventure, the EVOm boasts a built-in accessory channel, seamlessly integrating with roof rack systems, sports bars, and cargo carriers. Explore further, expand your possibilities.

  • Unmatched efficiency, forget bulky canisters that steal valuable bed space. The EVOm's minimised canister design maximises your pickup's storage capacity without sacrificing its sleek profile.

  • The EVOm's unique hinge design and 100% knife-proof aluminium slats create an impenetrable barrier between your gear and the outside world. Rest assured, your valuables are safe and sound.

  • The EVOm eliminates the need for bulky external handles or keylocks, achieving a clean, streamlined aesthetic that complements your pickup's overall design. It's the perfect marriage of style and functionality.

RealTruck redefines what's possible with the EVOe Electric Roll Cover . Embrace the future of convenience with this cutting-edge marvel of engineering. Experience effortless operation at your fingertips – the EVOe utilises a powerful yet quiet electric motor for seamless opening and closing via a key fob.

The EVOe isn't just functional, it elevates your pickup's style. Clean lines and a sophisticated design integrate flawlessly, redefining your pickup experience in one smooth motion.

Elevate your pickup's potential with the EVOe and experience:

  • Effortless access at your fingertips: Imagine seamlessly opening or closing your truck bed with a simple tap. The EVOe electric retractable tonneau cover redefines convenience with its one-touch button operation. No more struggling with latches or manual controls – just effortless access to your gear at the press of a button.

  • Built to Last, strength and style collide in the EVOe. Crafted from robust aluminium and shielded with a premium OE-grade powder coat finish, the EVOe is built to withstand the elements while looking undeniably sharp.

  • The EVOe boasts a built-in accessory channel, seamlessly integrating with racking systems, sports bars, and cargo carriers. Expand your potential, conquer new terrains, and haul your gear in style.

  • Say goodbye to bulky canisters that eat away at valuable bed space. The EVOe's minimised canister design maximises your pickup's storage capacity without sacrificing its sleek profile.

  • The EVOe prioritises security. With a unique hinge design and 100% knife-proof aluminium slats, your valuables are always shielded from the outside world. The absence of external handles and keylocks eliminates potential access points for prying eyes.

  • Experience a touch of luxury with the automatic LED light that gradually brightens upon opening and fades when closed, providing both convenience and a sophisticated touch.

Soft Tonneau Cover

Soft tonneau covers are constructed from vinyl, canvas, or fabric materials. They are known for:

  • Lightweight Construction: Easy to handle and remove.

  • Ease of Installation: Generally require minimal tools and technical knowledge.

  • Affordability: Typically the most budget-friendly option.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: Can conform to uneven loads and roll up for full bed access.

  • Accessibility: Easy to open and close for quick access to cargo.

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  • Compatibility: Available in various sizes to fit most truck bed configurations.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited Security: May not deter determined thieves.

  • Durability: Susceptible to punctures, tears, and fading over time.

Hard Tonneau Covers

Hard tonneau covers are constructed from aluminium, fibreglass, or ABS plastic. They offer:

  • Sturdy Construction: Provides superior protection against dents and weather elements.

  • Enhanced Security: Generally more secure than soft covers, often featuring locking mechanisms.

  • Weather Resistance: Excellent protection against rain, snow, and sun damage.

Advantages:

  • Superior Protection: Shields cargo from theft and harsh weather conditions.

  • Sleek Appearance: Enhances the visual appeal of your truck.

  • Durability: Built to last longer than soft tonneau covers.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than soft covers.

  • Heavier Weight: Can add weight to your truck, potentially impacting fuel efficiency.

  • More Complex Installation: May require drilling and technical expertise for installation.

Folding Tonneau Cover

Folding tonneau covers are made of rigid materials such as aluminium or fibreglass panels that are hinged together. They usually come in three or four sections that can be folded back in sequence, allowing partial or full access to the truck bed. Folding tonneau covers combine the flexibility of soft covers with the security of hard covers.

Advantages:

  • Versatility: Offers a balance between security and easy access.

  • Accessibility: Can be partially folded to accommodate taller cargo.

  • Security: More secure than soft covers, often featuring locking mechanisms.

Disadvantages:

  • Reduced Security: Compared to some hard tonneau covers, folding covers might have exposed hinges or panels.

  • Potential Wear and Tear: Folding mechanisms might experience wear over time.

Roll-Up Tonneau Covers

Roll-up tonneau covers are made from vinyl or fabric that can be rolled up towards the cab when not in use. They offer:

  • Simplicity: Easy to use and maintain.

  • Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly options.

  • Ease of Use: Quick to roll up and secure for full bed access.

Advantages:

  • Quick Installation: Generally requires minimal tools for attachment.

  • Convenient Access: Easy to roll up and secure for full bed use.

  • Budget-Friendly: A cost-effective way to enhance truck bed functionality.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited Security: May not be the most secure option for valuable cargo.

  • Susceptibility to Wear and Tear: The rolling mechanism and material might be prone to wear over time.

    For more Manual Retractable Tonneau Coverinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Conclusion

Retractable Vs Foldable Tonneau Cover | 5thGenRams Forums

Depends on how you use your bed

Retractable
Cons
- canister takes up space
- much more expensive then most trifold covers
- not as easily remove label if you do need the extra space

Pros
-usually way more durable.. harder to break into
-usually can be keyed locked instead of just locked with the tailgate like trifold covers


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I might haul stuff once in a great while. I just like the idea of being able to secure items in the bed, especially if I am headed to the range for some target practice. Do I haul large items? Rarely, but I like having the option. You should've seen the look I was getting in the local Lowe's parking lot trying to get a set of Adirondack chairs into the back of a Subaru WRX. I've only had solid fiberglass (one piece) or folding tonneau covers.

My dad's last truck had a rolling top. Things I noted from his ownership:

Pros:
1. He had a 5th wheel that he towed so he could lock the cover in just about any position along the tracks.

2. Hard and lockable so it is a fairly solid security item for stuff in the bed.

Cons:
1. We did a lot of off-roading so I spent a lot of time lubricating the tracks after a dusty weekend as well as making adjustments to the rail (mounts) when all of the articulation threw the alignment out of whack. It was also an 8' bed so that's a lot longer track than these trucks will have.

2. It takes an effort to pull the cover shut. As time goes on that effort increases, especially if you don't stay on top of lubrication/cleanliness.

3. I had to occasionally take the top off the canister to clean it out. You can clean the top as much as you want but you will eventually get junk into the canister.

4. I'm not sure how the drains are set up for these trucks (e.g. holes drilled to route drains).

After a life of fiberglass tonneau covers I've "retired" to tri-fold covers. They are easy on, easy off, easy to carry, and easy to store when they aren't installed on the bed.
I'm thinking about getting a tonneau cover for my Ram Laramie. But I am undecided which one. Either foldable or retractable. I like things about both. What are pros and cons you have seen with either one?
Have you looked into Lomax, folding. They support up to 400lbs on the cover, fold out of the way, remove in about 1min. I had one on my GMC and one is going on my Ram. Sit flush and water tight. https://www.agricover.com/hard-tonneau-covers/
I like mine from Paragon. It's a foldable, that folds into the bed that way you can still see out the rear window. And when it is folded, you can remove the panel as one unit to get back that 6 inches of space.
Considered Paragon and almost pulled trigger, sometimes wish I did, but didn't like that it seems like it had to be keyed locked or it would be accessible. Also, thought downward pressure may cause inadvertent openings if not locked.
Considered Paragon and almost pulled trigger, sometimes wish I did, but didn't like that it seems like it had to be keyed locked or it would be accessible. Also, thought downward pressure may cause inadvertent openings if not locked.
Yes, it needs to be locked, but takes 2 seconds to lock or unlock. The only issue I have is that if there is anything in the front of the bed, it won't open.

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