Are you an adventure seeker always ready to hit the road, and embark on thrilling journeys on your trusty truck? If so, you’ve probably encountered the age-old dilemma of selecting the perfect truck bed cover. Here we bring two best options: the mighty Truck Camper Shell and the sleek Tonneau Cover!
Both these options offer distinct advantages. The most common question happens to be ‘Which is better tonneau cover or camper shell?’ and the answer depends on your personal preference!
While the Truck Camper Shell provides a fully enclosed living space, the Tonneau Cover leaves the truck bed open for more access during loading and unloading. You might be the free-spirited outdoor vacation type that suits the Truck Camper Shell, or the smooth and streamlined occupational type, that fits the Tonneau cover!
However, you decide on which one is best for you, after reading about each of these in detail! So, fasten your seatbelt as we delve into the exciting world of truck bed covers and learn about the key distinctions between the camper shell vs bed cover, which will undoubtedly ignite your curiosity!
| Features | Tonneau Cover | Camper Shell (Cap) |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of installation | Quick and easy assembly. | More time consuming to set up. |
| Security | Hides goods from view, offering a modicum of security. | It is completely enclosed and lockable, providing more security. |
| Cargo space | Easy access to the bed, but obstructions for bigger cargo. | Full bed access for carrying bulkier objects. |
| Durability | They arevery durable, due to heavy-duty construction. | Solid fibreglass, aluminium, or composite construction exceptional durability. |
| Appearance | Modern and sleek appearance. | Tough and practical appearance. |
| Aerodynamics | Designed to increase fuel economy and minimise wind resistance. | The solid construction may result in a modest increase in wind resistance. |
| Leak Resistance | During rain, soft coverings may encounter minor leakage. | Excellent waterproof barrier and leak resistance. |
| Gas mileage | Increased aerodynamics result in better gas mileage. | Gas mileage has somewhat decreased, especially in city driving. |
| Price | A variety of alternatives are available at different pricing points. | The costlier because of its superior construction and added amenities. |
Pro Tip: You can always for a do-it-yourself approach, when it comes to installing your truck cover. However, a professional who is experienced might be the better fit for your first installation, as they ensure the best job to leave no disputes later on.
Similarities and Dissimilarities Between a Truck Camper Shell vs a Tonneau Cover
There is a ton of similarities as well as differences which can create confusion about selecting the correct truck bed cover. The following points can help clear those doubts:
Similarities:-
1. Protection
Your truck bed and its contents are shielded from harsh weather that might cause damage, such as heavy rain, snowfall, and daily sun exposure, by both the camper shells and tonneau covers.
2. Security
When it comes to camper top vs bed cover, both give an extra degree of security, by shielding your goods and lowering the chance of theft.
Differences:-
1. Installation Effort
Tonneau Cover: In general, installing a tonneau cover is simple and quick. The majority of truck owners can easily put them up without professional assistance because they are available in a variety of forms, such as roll-up, tri-fold, or retractable.
Camper Shell: Installation of a camper shell, commonly referred to as a truck cover, can be more difficult and time-consuming. To guarantee a solid connection, it frequently calls for drilling into the truck bed and precise alignment.
2. Cargo Room
Tonneau Cover: Tonneau covers allow you to access the bed just partially, often from the sides or the back. They might not, nevertheless, be able to carry heavier or higher items.
Camper Shell: Full bed access is available with camper shells, allowing you to carry bigger things or even set up a temporary camping area inside the enclosed compartment.
3. Durability
Tonneau Cover: Tonneau covers are often composed of soft or hard materials with varying degrees of durability, such as vinyl, aluminium, or fiberglass. Hardcovers often have superior resistance to possible wear and tear.
Camper Shell: Due to their sturdy construction using materials like fibreglass, aluminium, or composites, camper shells are often more durable.
4. Appearance
Tonneau Cover: The swashbuckling gentleman-sailor! Tonneau covers give your truck’s profile a splash of elegance, giving it a dapper and fashionable appeal that draws attention on the highway.
Camper Shell: The powerful and intimidating warrior! With camper shells, your truck’s profile is transformed into a powerful force that authoritatively proclaims your presence. Camper shells radiate strength and dependability.
5. Aerodynamics
Tonneau Cover: The nimble and nimble sprinter, the tonneau cover! Aerodynamics plays a key role in the construction of tonneau covers, which helps your vehicle move through the air more quickly and smoothly.
Camper Shell: The unwavering and unshakable fortification is the camper shell. Although they are protective, camper shells may be a little less aerodynamic since they function as a windbreak, which might have little influence on your fuel economy.
Pro Tip: If you happen to have a job that needs you to be on the go all the time, it is better to invest in a lightweight cover that is durable, to ensure that your truck is agile and does not feel weighted down when you drive.
6. Resistance to Leaks
Tonneau Cover: The beaten-up shield is the tonneau cover. Although the majority of tonneau covers have weather seals to keep water out like skilled archers, certain soft coverings may encounter a little leak after a heavy downpour.
Camper Shell: The impenetrable wall! Due to its sealed construction, camper shells excel at preventing leaks, guaranteeing that your goods are kept dry and safe even during the worst storms.
7. Fuel efficiency
Tonneau Cover: The master of fuel efficiency! A tonneau cover acts as a fuel economy magician, giving you greater gas mileage on extended trips because of its streamlined design and decreased drag.
Camper Shell: The tough shield! The camper shell bravely protects your stuff and strikes a decent mix between protection and gas efficiency even if it may not be as aerodynamically oriented.
8. Price
Tonneau Cover: Your cost-effective ally! You may choose the ideal tonneau cover that fits your budget without sacrificing quality thanks to the vast variety of pricing available.
Camper Shell: The best watchdog! Camper shells are somewhat more expensive, but their sturdy design and added amenities make up for it, making them an investment for those looking for the finest.
Pro Tip: Evaluate your needs and truck usage first, before making any rushed decisions. It is best to select a cover that caters to your needs and keeps your truck operating smoothly, rather than an aesthetic cover that gets damaged after a few uses.
Camper Top vs Bed Cover
A camper top also known as a truck cap or canopy covers the entire bed of the truck enclosing it like a small camper. A bed cover also called a tonneau cover covers only the bed of the truck leaving the cab area open. The camper top provides full protection and security for the entire truck bed making it suitable for camping and storage of larger items.
Bed cover offers partial protection and security for the bed keeping contents safe from weather and theft while leaving the cab accessible. The camper top is less versatile as it permanently encloses the entire truck bed limiting the ability to transport taller items.
The bed cover is more flexible as it can be easily removed or folded allowing for transportation of larger or taller cargo when needed. The camper top changes the appearance of the truck significantly giving it a more enclosed and camper-like look. Bed cover maintains the truck s original appearance mostly as it covers only the bed area and leaves the cab unchanged.
FAQs
1) When to opt for Tonneau Cover?
Ans: Opt for a tonneau cover when you want a sleek-looking, low-profile cover to protect the bed of your pickup truck. It also provides easy access and improves fuel efficiency by the reduction in drag.
2) When to opt for Camper Shell a.k.a Caps?
Ans: Choose a Camper Shell when you need maximum protection as well as storage space for your truck bed. Camper shells cover the entire bed, guaranteeing the safety of cargo from weather and theft, making them ideal for outdoor exploration.
Conclusion
The battle of Truck Camper Shell vs Tonneau Cover seems never-ending. Whether you prefer a rugged and adventurous look or a sleek and sophisticated vibe, these accessories blend seamlessly with your truck, becoming a true extension of your personality.
Take the plunge and invest in a casual but classy Truck Camper Shell or a traditional but hardy Tonneau Cover. Whatever your choice may be, both these truck covers promise to elevate your driving experience to new heights. So, don’t wait any longer, because your next unforgettable journey awaits!
