If you’re looking to protect your truck bed and gear, you’ve probably thought about either a truck cap or a tonneau cover. Each of these bed covers has its perks and drawbacks. The decision mainly boils down to what you value most: storage space, security, or style. Let’s break down these two popular options and get a good idea of which might suit your lifestyle best.
What is a Truck Cap?
A truck cap, often called a camper shell, is like an extended roof for your truck bed. These caps provide a fully enclosed space and are typically made from fiberglass, aluminum, or plastic. Some truck caps even have windows, locks, and roof racks, turning your truck bed into a secure, weather-resistant storage area.
People often choose truck caps for hauling larger items that need protection. If you’re traveling long distances with a lot of stuff, a truck cap can be ideal. You’re basically adding an extra room to your truck that’s weatherproof and secure.
Pros and Cons of Truck Caps
Advantages of Truck Caps
- More Storage Space: Truck caps maximize vertical storage, letting you stack items high without worrying about rain or wind.
- Security for Valuables: Many truck caps come with locking mechanisms, so you can store valuable items safely. That added height gives you a lot of room to work with.
- Weather Protection: If you’re transporting items sensitive to weather conditions, a truck cap is perfect. It shields everything inside from rain, snow, and even harsh sun.
- Better for Camping: Some truck caps even come with features for camping enthusiasts, like windows, ventilation, or insulation.
Disadvantages of Truck Caps
- Reduced Visibility: Some caps block your rearview visibility, making it harder to see out the back.
- Less Bed Access: A truck cap is fixed, so if you need quick access to the entire bed, you’ll have to remove it, which isn’t exactly convenient.
- Heavier and Permanent: Most caps are heavy and require effort to install or remove. They’re more of a long-term choice.
What is a Tonneau Cover?
A tonneau cover lays flat on top of your truck bed, covering it horizontally rather than adding height. These covers come in several types—soft, hard, rolling, folding, and even retractable models. Depending on the style and material, tonneau covers can be waterproof, durable, and secure, though they don’t offer the vertical storage space of a truck cap.
Tonneau covers are all about quick access and style. They keep your gear out of sight and shield it from basic weather but don’t offer the same level of storage space as a truck cap.
Pros and Cons of Tonneau Covers
Advantages of Tonneau Covers
- Easy Access: Most tonneau covers can be rolled, folded, or retracted, letting you open up the truck bed quickly. Some even allow partial access, which can be a big plus.
- Improved Gas Mileage: Covering your truck bed reduces wind resistance, potentially giving you a slight boost in fuel efficiency.
- Streamlined Look: Tonneau covers sit flush against the truck bed, giving your truck a sleek, aerodynamic appearance.
- Variety of Options: From soft roll-ups to hard retractable designs, you can find tonneau covers that fit your budget and needs.
Disadvantages of Tonneau Covers
- Limited Storage Height: Unlike truck caps, tonneau covers don’t allow for stacked storage. You’re limited to what fits under the cover’s height.
- Less Security: Soft covers, especially, can be easily tampered with. While hard tonneau covers offer more protection, they still might not match the security of a lockable truck cap.
- Less Weather Protection: While tonneau covers shield against rain and snow, they won’t protect from every element like a fully enclosed cap does.
Which Option Offers Better Security?
When it comes to security, a truck cap generally wins out. It’s almost like having an extended cabin, providing a locked, enclosed space that’s challenging for thieves to break into. The locking mechanisms on truck caps are usually more robust than those on tonneau covers. If you’re frequently hauling valuable gear and parking in public areas, a truck cap offers that extra level of security.
However, hard tonneau covers offer reasonable protection for many needs. Hard folding or retractable tonneau covers come with locks at the tailgate, keeping things relatively secure. Soft tonneau covers, though, are less secure since they can be cut or pried open easily.
Storage Space Comparison
A truck cap is the clear choice if you need maximum storage space. Its vertical design lets you load larger items, which can be especially handy if you’re carrying tall gear like furniture or sports equipment. Additionally, some truck caps come with roof racks, allowing you to carry more gear on top of the cap itself.
On the other hand, if you’re not carrying tall items, a tonneau cover keeps things hidden while maintaining bed access. If you have smaller tools or equipment that fit below the cover line, this could be the more practical choice.
Effect on Fuel Efficiency
Surprisingly, a tonneau cover can slightly improve fuel efficiency by reducing wind drag on the truck bed. With an open truck bed, air gets trapped, which can slow down your vehicle. Covering it up with a tonneau cover creates a smoother surface, reducing drag and helping save a bit on gas.
Truck caps, however, might increase drag, particularly if they aren’t streamlined. Though some newer designs aim to be more aerodynamic, they’re typically less efficient in this area than tonneau covers. If fuel economy matters most to you, tonneau covers take the win.
Which is Easier to Install?
Tonneau covers are generally easier to install. Most come with straightforward instructions and don’t require special tools, so you can have one on in less than an hour. Some even offer no-drill installation, making it hassle-free for almost any truck owner.
Truck caps, by contrast, are heavier and often need two people to install. Many users opt for professional installation, as truck caps must be perfectly aligned to ensure a good fit and prevent leaks. If you’re looking for something you can take on and off frequently, tonneau covers are a better choice.
Best Option for Different Uses
Best for Frequent Access to the Bed
If you need to open and close your truck bed often, a tonneau cover is more convenient. Whether you’re hauling groceries or frequently accessing tools, a tonneau cover gives you flexibility without removing the cover.
Best for Camping and Long Trips
A truck cap is perfect if you’re a camper or road tripper. You can store camping gear, and the extra height gives you room for bulky items. Some users even sleep in their truck beds, using the cap as a shelter. Plus, truck caps with windows can provide ventilation, an advantage for those long nights on the road.
Best for Versatility
If you’re looking for an all-around solution and don’t need extra height, go with a hard tonneau cover. Many of these covers offer security and style, allowing you to get the most out of your truck without drastically altering its look.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a truck cap and tonneau cover depends on how you use your truck. If security, extra storage space, and weather protection are at the top of your list, a truck cap’s better. However, if quick access, fuel efficiency, and a clean look are more important, a tonneau cover will fit the bill.
