A window tint can be a pretty nifty installation for your ride. Need extra privacy? Done. Want to reduce heat in summer? Done. It drastically reduces the UV and infrared rays from the sunlight and saves your car’s interior. It even makes your car look great!
Let’s get this clear first – what are your options when it comes to window tints. Well, you have 6 types of best car window tint.
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6 Types Of Tints
1. Dye Window Tint
This is the least expensive car care option. This is applied by adding layers of dye to your window. It provides adequate privacy but being just layers of dye, it lacks proper heat blocking.
Over time, dye tint tends to erode and needs to be applied again. Not an ideal dye, but it could work for someone on a budget.
2. Metalized Window Tint
This kind of tint has several tiny, invisible metal pieces in the film itself. The metal reflects the sunlight and helps keep the UV and heat outside.
Another advantage that metalized tints have is that it reinforces your windows. Metalized films are highly effective in blocking out heat. They can also stay for a longer time, compared to dye tint, without fading.
3. Hybrid Window Tint
A hybrid tint is the best of both worlds. By combining metalized and dye tint, you get the advantages of both. This helps reduce heat and deals with UV and infrared light, all the while keeping the cost low.
4. Carbon Tint Film
The carbon film has many advantages over dyed and metallic tints. Firstly, it gives a matte finish, which tends to make them look more pleasing.
Secondly, the carbon content of the film is responsible for trapping IR rays. IR or infrared rays are the heat-carrying rays that heat the interiors of your car. They also degrade the delicate upholstery inside your vehicle. By blocking IR in summer, you protect your vehicle from heating up. Conversely, in winter, the carbon film is responsible for trapping heat so that you won’t have to spend money on a heater.
Unlike dyed tints, carbon films do not degrade over time, which ensures longevity.
5. Crystalline Tinting
What sets this apart from the others is that it provides heat and UV reduction without making the windows dark.
With certain states having a VLT percentage as high as 70% on the front side windows, your options get slimmer. These measures are taken mostly due to safety reasons. You can never be too certain about what could end up getting you in trouble.
At those times, crystalline tinting is your best bet, blocking off heat, IR, and UV rays, all the while not causing visibility problems.
6. Ceramic Tinting
This is the latest and most advanced form of tint. They contain ceramic nanoparticles that absorb and reflect light. They come in a variety of VLT ranges, so you can choose the one that fits you best.
Furthermore, they can block 99% of UV radiations and can block IR rays better than any other tint. However, this can be a bit expensive. They provide reinforcement to the glass, akin to metalized tint, without interfering with the phone service.
Now that you could make an informed decision on what kind of tint you’d like to get, here’s a list of the best car window tints.
Top 8 Best Car Window Tints 2021
1. Lexen 2Ply Premium Carbon Roll Window Tint Film
The Lexen carbon roll is one of, if not the best, car window tints. It is a scratch-resistant black carbon tint that provides great privacy and heat resistance.
The Lexen roll is available in 5%, 20%, 35%, 40% and 50% darkness. The carbon particles work well in trapping heat and protecting the car from IR rays. It can block 99% of UV radiation.
Because it is a carbon film, it won’t lose its color easily. It doesn’t interfere with radio and mobile signals.
It is sold in the form of a roll so that you can cut it according to your needs. However, the process of application is a rather strenuous one. Customers have complained that the film easily crumples. Apply it yourself only if you’re certain you know what you’re doing. Else, employ someone competent to assist you.
If the windows aren’t clean enough, then the film might bubble and peel off over time. Take proper precautions to ensure longevity.
2. Lexen 2Ply Ceramic All Windows Precut Tint
Another great product by Lexen, this one is a ceramic tint. It contains ceramic nanoparticles that reflect and trap heat. They can effectively block 99% of UV radiation.
Owing to the fact of it being a ceramic film, it doesn’t interfere with the radio, GPS, and phone signal. It is available in 5%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40% and 45% VLT.
Lexen provides pre-cut films for the sides and back windshield, along with a kit and instructions. Upon request, they provide the 3rd brake light cutout pattern as well.
However, just like the previous product, this also requires a bit of expertise before application. Customers have complained that the instructions provided weren’t much help. There are complaints of haze and bubbling as well, but that could just be because of application errors.
Others have complained about receiving a thin film. Still, the general fact remains that this is a great product.
If you decide to go for it, make sure that you pick the right year and model to receive the best.
3. True Line Automotive Computer Customized Pre-Cut Window Tint Kit
True line Automotive Computer Customized Pre-cut window tint kit provides great quality precut window tint for your vehicle. They come in 5%, 20%, 35%, and 50% options.
They are cut to precision so that you don’t have to struggle to apply. If, however, you do get a mismatched cut, you can easily contact True Line. They have responsive customer service that is ready to help you. Whether it’s a delivery mishap or you messed up installing it, they’ve got your back.
They are fairly more user-friendly to those who are inexperienced with tint film installation. They do not crimp easily, so you can handle it rough to a certain point. Still, it is advisable to get from a professional if you aren’t sure what you’re doing.
They provide full kits that help you install the tint with ease. The kit includes squeegees, a razor, and a spray bottle. The film is scratch-resistant, so it won’t be damaged by squeegees like some inferior products.
Make sure to select the proper model while ordering, and the rest are set. For inexperienced folks, this is one of the best car window tints.
4. MotoShield Pro 2mil Ceramic Window Tint Film
The MotoShield Pro is a ceramic tint, providing the latest the industry has to offer. It has a great range in size, varying from 20’’X5’ to 60’’X100’, meaning you can fine-tune your selection.
You also get to choose one of the following VLT% – 5%, 15%, 25%, 35%, 50%, 70%, and 75%. What makes this stand out from other products here is the option of 70% and 75%. There are some states that don’t allow VLT below 70%. So, this is one of the best car window tints if you fall under that banner.
It protects against 99% of IR and UV radiation. IR rays are responsible for heating up your car. By blocking them, you keep your vehicle cool and, over time, save on the AC money. Furthermore, UV rays are linked to numerous skin problems, including skin cancer. Their effective blocking should be an essential part of summer.
It does not contain any metallic particles; hence, you won’t have any problem with your cell reception. Depending on the VLT of the film, you can get anywhere from 20% to 95% glare reduction.
5. Jnk Networks Real Precut Tint Film
This JNK film comes in an easy to install precut form. You just provide your vehicle’s model number, and you get a set of film precision, fit to its windows.
The film requires heat shrinking to fit on the glass properly. It is not metalized, so you won’t have interference with your GPS signal or phone reception.
It can block IR rays well, keeping your vehicle cool. Furthermore, it can also stop 99% of the UV rays that are responsible for skin cancer.
However, they do not provide a proper kit for the application of the film. Still, just as with any other, professional help is recommended.
It is available in three shades – 5%, 15%, and 30%. The lack of higher VLT% might make this an undesirable product for some.
They provide tint for all the side windows and the back window as well. All that, along with a proper guide, makes this a good choice.
The manufacturers do not mention whether it’s carbon or ceramic tint. Whichever it may be, you can be certain that it won’t lose its color over time or go bubbly.
6. Mkbrother 2PLY 5% VLT Window Tint Adhesive Film
The Mkbrother provides great heat reduction and UV blockage. It can easily block 99% of all UV radiation. Meaning, you won’t have to worry about skin diseases and skin cancer, especially in summer.
It is more likely to affect not only you but your upholstery as well. This provides good protection from the heat by blocking off 50% of it.
It is available in a range of choices from 36’’X5’ to 36’’X100’. Meaning, you will neither run short nor waste too much while working.
This is the 5% VLT or the limo sheet. Films of much higher VLT are also available on Amazon by Mkbrother.
The film is made of good quality materials, so it won’t go purple or bubble over time. It will not fade either.
The film does not come with an applicator kit. Customers have complained that the film creases easily and could ruin the look of your car. Just like with the other films, this will work best with professional help.
It does not come pre-cut. This means you will have to carefully measure out your windows and then cut that part for use.
It is non-metalized, so it won’t affect the GPS signal and phone reception. This being the 2-ply version, provides the extra strength for durability.
7. Gila Static Cling Plus Window Tint
GILA provides one of the best static cling films. It is a reusable and easily applied film that can be handled by inexperienced users. If you’re uncertain about getting a permanent tint, this might be a good place to start.
This film provides 5% and 20% VLT. It can easily block 99% of UV radiation. Furthermore, its IR blocking helps in blocking heat outside the vehicle. This keeps your car cool, and you save money on ac cooling. Its glare-reducing feature makes driving safer.
The film is made of highly durable material and is scratch-resistant. Meaning, you won’t have to worry about scratching your film while removing or reapplying it.
It comes with an easy application kit so that you don’t have to worry about buying even more stuff after your purchase. Its detailed guide makes applying easier.
However, some customers have complained that the film might be too thick for applying. Customers also complain about the protective layer on the adhesive being too strong.
Overall, if you are inexperienced and want to try an easy way to remove tint before going for a better one, then this is one of the best car window tints for you.
8. Diablo Sol X – 2 Ply Window Tint
The Diablo SOL X is a durable, high quality window film made to give you the best. It comes in a 36’’X100’ roll, which you can cut any way you’d like to.
It is available in 35%, 20%, 15% and 5% VLT. No, this only that, but it can also block 99 percent of UV radiation and 50% of IR radiation. Reduction in IR rays means that your car stays cool in the summer heat.
It is not made of metallic particles, so it won’t interfere with the phone or GPS signal. Also, it will not lose its color or purple over time. So, you won’t have to worry about changing it again and again.
It is easy to apply, but it would be encouraged to seek professional help while applying. If you mess up the application, the look of the tint will be undesirable.
Best Car Window Tints – Conclusion
Window tinting is an amazing way to save some money as well as make your car look cool. However, it can be tricky. Even people with years of experience might sometimes mess up the tinting process.
There are many brands out there, and it can be hard to choose from. Ask around, see what people prefer before making your decision.
What To Keep In Mind While Looking For The Best Car Window Tint
1. VLT
VLT or visible light transmission is the measure of the amount of visible light that could penetrate the tint. The darker the film, the less visible light can penetrate.
Be careful while picking the right VLT for your car. Certain states, like California, have strict restrictions on the darkness of the tint. Be sure to check your state’s legal limit before purchase.
2. UV and IR Rays Blocking
UV rays are responsible for skin cancer and many other skin ailments. Many tints have the capability to block these kinds of rays effectively. Still, be sure to check that the tint you are buying has been rigorously tested.
IR rays or infrared rays are the heat-carrying rays. These are the rays responsible for heating your vehicle. When your vehicle gets heated up, you need to run your AC on a higher setting to make it cooler. This often consumes gas. So proper heat blocking will help you save money.
Furthermore, too much heat destroys the upholstery of your vehicle. If you have expensive, delicate upholstery, you might want to spend a good amount to keep the heat out so that the upholstery doesn’t end up getting ruined.
3. Thickness
Tints come in a variety of thicknesses, depending on the needs of the individual. You will often notice products described as 2-ply. This indicates that the product is two sheets combined as one.
If the thickness of the product is too much, it will be hard to work with. These kinds of products end up resembling vinyl. Their thickness makes it hard to bend around the glass and heat shrink to the window.
On the other hand, if the sheet is too thin, then you have a problem as well. A thin sheet is prone to creasing. If your tint gets creased then, the look of your tint will be ruined. Also, creasing might induce air bubbles into the tint, which will damage it.
4. Type
Type is very important when it comes to tints. As mentioned in the beginning, there are 6 types of tints. However, carbon and ceramic are the most commonly available.
Most people do not prefer metalized film because it messes with the phone reception and GPS. You can’t afford to be cut off from the world while driving.
Ceramic is the latest one the market has to offer. It is also the most expensive. Although it provides performance leagues above the performance of a carbon film, make an informed decision. Many people might not need that kind of performance like those in the northern states. However, people from southern states might find ceramic to be more suitable.
FAQs on Car Window Tints
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What Is The Darkest You Can Tint Your Windows?
The darkest available is 5% VLT. These block off 95% of the visible light. However, every state has its own regulation. Check with your state’s regulation before applying the tint.
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Do Cars Look Better With Tinted Windows?
Although this is very much up to personal preference, it is generally believed that tint makes cars look attractive.
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Should You Tint Home Windows?
You should only tint at home if you’re absolutely sure about what you’re doing. Tinting can be a tricky procedure and is not for everyone. If you mess up the process, then the tint won’t look as good. Furthermore, you run the risk of ruining the film itself by mishandling it. Make sure you’re up for the task before you embark on your tinting journey.
