How to Choose the Best Retractable Tonneau Cover

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Choosing the Best Retractable Tonneau Cover Summary

• Retractable tonneau covers are ideal for those who want a secure cover that allows for full bed access without obscuring the back window.

• Retractable tonneau covers typically start at around $1,000. However, depending on the brand and model, prices can exceed $4,000.

• After consulting with an industry expert and testing several retractable tonneau covers, we recommend three options for truck owners: two from Gator (GatorTrax and Recoil) and the Retrax EQ.

Retractable Tonneau Covers & Our Testing Process

When evaluating tonneau covers, we assess ease of installation and use, durability, price, and overall functionality, as these are among the essential factors when choosing a tonneau cover. During our tonneau cover reviews, we use these trucks as test vehicles:

• 2013 Toyota Tacoma (Standard Cab) with a 6.0-ft., 2.0-in. bed.
• 2016 Toyota Tundra with a 5.0-ft., 7.0-in. bed.
• 2022 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab with a 5.0-ft. bed.
• 2016 Chevy Colorado with a 5.0-ft. bed.
• 2017 Toyota Tundra with a 5.0-ft., 7.0-in. bed.
• 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trail Boss with a 5.0-ft., 8.0-in. bed.
• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 with a 6.0-ft., 9.0-in. bed.

After installation, we tried each cover’s features and then left it on the test truck to learn how it would hold up over time. Hit the “show more” arrow if you would like to see our full testing methodology, including how we score tonneau covers.

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An Expert Opinion

We caught up with RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King, who has worked on vehicles for over 25 years. He shared his insight into what makes a great retractable tonneau cover and some of the key differences between this type of cover and other options available.

King recommends looking at three factors when picking the best tonneau cover for your truck.

“There’s not a single magic question to ask somebody if they’re interested in a tonneau cover, but we recommend truck owners consider three variables: price, level of security, and use case.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.

Retractable Tonneau Cover Cost

Retractable tonneau covers typically cost around $1,000 on the low end, although one with all the bells and whistles can cost around $4,000. While retractable tonneau covers offer high levels of security against theft, the price is something to consider.

Low Price	$1,000
Typical Price	$1,900
High Price	$4,000

Soft covers are among the most affordable tonneau covers, although the trade-off is lower theft protection. Meanwhile, a hard folding tonneau cover is a good option if you want a middle ground between price and security.

The price difference between different retractable tonneau covers typically comes down to materials and features.

Materials

The most common materials used to craft retractable tonneau covers are aluminum or a polycarbonate composite.

“Many polycarbonate tops are constructed from a single piece, engineered to retract without joints or hinges that can trap dust, wear out, or freeze. They are also UV- and impact-resistant. The aluminum slats are also going to be less susceptible to impact damage.” ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.

While more durable, aluminum covers can be more expensive compared to polycarbonate covers. The GatorTrax (detailed below) is constructed of polycarbonate slats, which helps put it at the more affordable end of the retractable tonneau cover range.

Added Features

Retractable bed covers roll into a canister positioned near the cab inside the bed, which differs from soft roll-up tonneau covers that secure in place with straps near your back window.

Some covers have additional features such as automatic retraction, key fob integration, interior lighting, and waterproofing. Although these extra features are great to have, they do impact the cost.

• Automatic Retraction: Some tonneau covers can be closed automatically by integrating the cover with your truck’s keyfob during installation. This is a nice feature for those who don’t have the height to open and close the cover from the side of the truck bed. Depending on the situation, automatic retraction can also be convenient when loading and unloading items from the bed.

• Interior Lighting: This can be beneficial when working in your truck bed at night. In addition to tonneau covers, brands like AMP Research have even expanded into customizable lighting for step bars and running boards.

• Waterproofing: Tonneau covers aim to be as water-resistant as possible. However, few can completely seal your truck bed from all moisture, especially during heavy rains. Most retractable tonneau covers include a drainage system to reduce the amount of water intrusion.

Retractable Tonneau Cover Security

As King noted, retractable tonneau covers are made with durable materials less susceptible to damage. By the nature of their construction, retractable tonneau covers provide a high level of theft deterrent, as they cannot be punctured by a knife or box cutter like a soft tonneau cover.

If the higher price of a retractable tonneau cover is a concern, but you still want theft protection, a hard folding cover can be a good alternative. In the past, we have tested the BAKFlip G2 and Gator EFX and had a good experience with both.

Hard roll-up tonneau covers, like the BAK Revolver X4S, can also provide good theft protection while having a lower retail price than retractable bed covers.

Retractable Tonneau Cover Use Cases

Retractable tonneau covers provide full access to the truck bed when needed. Since the cover retracts into a canister at the back of the cab, it does not obstruct the rear window, which is especially beneficial for truck owners who often tow a trailer.

“Retractable covers would roll up and be out of the way for a fifth wheel or gooseneck trailer. A hard folding cover would fold up against the cab and be out of the way. However, if you’re towing a trailer and it’s going to be hooked up for a while, I certainly wouldn’t recommend blocking your rear window for that long of a period.”  ~ RealTruck Director of Marketing Chris King.

Some soft tonneau covers and hard folding tonneau covers can also provide full bed access. However, not all hard folding covers offer full access (some offer 2/3 bed access), and soft covers must sometimes be removed completely to access the bed.  

Although they don’t offer the same levels of security, some soft tonneau covers can be removed in just a few minutes if you need to attach a trailer to your truck for an extended period. They are also much more affordable than a retractable or hard tonneau cover.   

In the past, for soft tonneau covers, we have tested the Gator SFX Tri-Fold and the TruXedo TruXport and have had a good experience with both.

Retractable Tonneau Cover Benefits

Here are the primary benefits of picking a retractable tonneau cover for your pickup truck:

• Made from durable materials.

• Offer full bed access when needed.

• Have high levels of theft deterrence.

• Extra features, like automatic retraction, are convenient.

Retractable Tonneau Cover Downsides

Here are the primary disadvantages of a retractable bed cover:

• Longer installation process.

• Cannot be removed as easily.

• Higher cost versus other covers.

Remember, these are the general advantages and disadvantages of a retractable tonneau cover, and may or may not apply to your specific use case.

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Retractable Tonneau Cover Buying Guide

What Is the Best Retractable Tonneau Cover?

Based on our hands-on product testing, the GatorTrax, Retrax EQ, and Gator Recoil are among the best retractable tonneau covers on the market. These three covers span a nice range between affordability (Gator Recoil) and having all the bells and whistles (Retrax EQ).

Some other highly rated covers we would consider but have not tested ourselves include the Truck Covers USA American Roll Cover, RetraxPRO MX, and Pace Edwards Jackrabbit. Our recommendations for these covers come from customer reviews on the RealTruck website.

Brand/Model	Cost	Material	Warranty
GatorTrax Tonneau Cover	From $1,600	Polycarbonate	One year
Retrax EQ	From $3,200	Aluminum	Five years
Gator Recoil	From $900	Aluminum	Two years
Truck Covers USA American Roll Cover	From $2,650	Aluminum	Two years
RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover	From $2,250	Aluminum	Limited lifetime
Pace Edwards Jackrabbit Tonneau Cover	From $1,910	Aluminum	Five years

When it comes to tonneau covers, Automoblog team members read through DIY mechanic and auto enthusiast forums, manufacturer websites, and PDF instruction manuals from those manufacturers.

We pay attention to reviews highlighting build quality, ease of installation, warranty concerns, customer service support, and overall reliability. We look at websites like RealTruck and Amazon as a source for real-world customer reviews.

For this guide on how to pick the best retractable tonneau cover, we recommend three from our testing: the GatorTrax as the best overall option, the Retrax EQ for its added features, and the Gator Recoil as the best low-cost option.

Best Retractable Tonneau Cover Overall: GatorTrax

GatorTrax Fast Facts

• Cost: From $1,600
• Retraction Style: Manual
• Material: Polycarbonate composite
• Warranty length: One year

Unlike some tonneau covers that only lock at specific intervals, the GatorTrax locks at any position along the rail with an included key. While the GatorTrax is constructed from polycarbonate, which is generally less impact-resistant than aluminum (as King noted above), it remains one of the most durable retractable covers we have tested.

You can see how the GatorTrax performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review Category	Score (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Fit	3.5
Comfort	4.5
Durability	5.0
Overall Rating	4.3

Pros

• Available in matte or gloss finish.
• Lockable with a key in any position.
• No drill install for most applications.

Cons

• Relatively unclear install instructions.

Our Experience With GatorTrax

The written installation directions are difficult to follow, as with many tonneau covers we have tested. If it’s your first time installing something like a tonneau cover and you have a question, feel free to contact RealTruck’s customer service support (they have a live chat option). We have always had a good experience with them.

The GatorTrax was noticeably heavier than some of the other tonneau covers we installed and tested, partly due to the thick panel design. However, we take that as a good sign of its durability.

Once installed, the sealed ball bearings operate seamlessly, making the GatorTrax among the smoothest manual retractable covers. You can open and close your tailgate without touching the GatorTrax or vice versa.

When considering price, security, and features, the GatorTrax is the most well-rounded retractable tonneau cover, so it takes our top overall spot.

What Customers Are Saying About The GatorTrax

RealTruck Review Score: 4.5 out of 5.0 (about 1,000 reviews).

Despite the written instructions, most reviewers mention that the GatorTrax is easy to install.

Others say the GatorTrax is excellent at preventing water incursion. One reviewer said they sprayed a hose directly along the seams and were unable to penetrate the cover, while another had driven in the rain and through the automatic wash without issue.

Some negative reviewers have said the canister that holds the cover rattles while driving, while others have had a different experience involving build quality and how much water the GatorTrax actually keeps out of the bed.

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Best High-End Option: Retrax EQ

Retrax EQ Fast Facts

• Cost: From $3,200
• Retraction Style: Automatic
• Material: Aluminum
• Warranty length: Five years

The Retrax EQ includes all the extra features you may want, from interior bed lights to automatic operation via your truck’s factory key fob.

You can also pair the cover via Bluetooth to the Retrax app and open and close it with your phone. You can even opt for a keypad with a code that adheres to the back of the cab if you want to operate the Retrax EQ that way.

Here is how the Retrax EQ performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review Category	Score (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Installation	2.5
Ease of Use	5.0
Durability	4.5
Overall Rating	4.0

Pros

• Automatic operation
• Ultra low-profile design
• Built-in bed lights

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficult to install

Our Experience With The Retrax EQ

The installation of the Retrax EQ takes longer due to its integration with your truck’s electrical system for the automatic retraction feature. However, the extra time spent can be worthwhile for the end result.

Attaching the cover itself is similar to any retractable bed cover, but the Retrax EQ also requires that you connect the canister to your battery and install a control module.

Although you don’t need to be a certified mechanic to install this cover, the process is quite involved. We set aside an entire afternoon to focus on the task. The installation instructions vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model, but as shown in this Retrax EQ installation video from RealTruck, make sure to route the main wiring harness on the same side as your truck’s battery, guiding it along the frame as you work your way toward the hood.

If you run into a snag, RealTruck offers 24/7 customer support. When we had difficulties, we were quickly connected with a human operator who was well-versed in the Retrax EQ.

Once installed, the EQ is easy to operate! We love that it pairs with the factory key fob, and though the operation is slow, it is very fluid. The interior under-cover lights work well and would greatly help at night.

What Customers Are Saying About The Retrax EQ

The Retrax EQ is a newer tonneau cover, so there are not many customer reviews.

However, the early reviews are good, with one saying they felt customer support from Retrax was quick via e-mail. Another customer said the quality of the Retrax EQ was higher than they had initially expected.

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Best Low-Cost Option: Gator Recoil

Gator Recoil Fast Facts

• Cost: $900
• Retraction Style: Manual
• Material: Aluminum
• Warranty length: Two years

The Gator Recoil is an easy-to-use tonneau cover thanks to convenient features like the quick-release hatch (on the driver’s side) and sealed ball-bearing rollers that reduce the likelihood of parts failure. The manually operated cover has adjustable latch stops that allow for additional locking positions anywhere along the truck bed.

Here is how the Gator Recoil performed in each of our testing categories:

Review Category	Score (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Installation	3.5
Ease of Use	4.0
Durability	4.5
Overall Rating	4.0

Pros

• Low-profile design.
• Material construction.
• UV-resistant matte black finish.

Cons

• Installation can be difficult.

Our Experience With The Gator Recoil

The Gator Recoil took us longer to install than initially expected, as the customizable locking points require some extra steps. However, its clamp design provides greater security and stability than lower-priced covers and the adjustable locking positions, which allow you to secure the Gator Recoil in an open position at any point along the rail, are worth the extra installation steps.

Once installed, we were impressed by the quality of the slam latches and other components, which offered a smooth operation for the Recoil. We did notice that the rubber stripping came bent, but this is easily flattened once this tonneau cover is fully secured with the retaining bolts.

Finally, one of the things we like most about the Gator Recoil is its aluminum slat construction for theft deterrence and its matte black finish for increased weather resistance. Overall, the Gator Recoil offers a lot of value for its lower price compared to other retractable tonneau covers.

What Customers Are Saying About The Gator Recoil

RealTruck Review Score: 3.9 out of 5.0 (around 900 reviews)

The Gator Recoil is a popular entry-level retractable tonneau cover, with many customers praising its fitment and look on their truck. Many are pleased with the quality, given the cost.

Some complained about the installation process, while others said videos on YouTube were helpful and made the process easier. Other negative reviews mention the quality of the parts, improper fitment, and water leaks.

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Other Top-Selling Retractable Tonneau Covers

While our team has tested many tonneau covers, we haven’t yet had the opportunity to work with the ones below. Based on the manufacturer’s reputation, features, and customer reviews, these may be worth considering if you want a retractable tonneau cover.

Truck Covers USA American Roll Cover

The American Roll Cover is a sleek-looking retractable tonneau cover built in the USA using high-quality parts and materials. Its aluminum construction, corrosion-resistant powder coat finish, and 500 lbs. weight capacity (evenly distributed) make it a good choice for those who expect to use and abuse their tonneau cover.

There are multiple reviews from customers who have owned this tonneau cover for months and report that it still works perfectly. One person said they have used this cover for eight years without issue. Another common praise reviewers mention is that Truck Covers USA has excellent and responsive customer service.

In terms of complaints, at least one person wrote that this tonneau cover can freeze shut during the winter, and several have said it isn’t the best at keeping out water. Another common complaint is that the locking system requires a key, which must be used to open the cover every time.

RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover

The RetraxPRO MX is a durable tonneau cover backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Top features include a double-walled aluminum slat construction, a matte black powder coat finish, sealed-ball-bearing rollers, and a 500 lbs. weight capacity (evenly distributed).

While we have not tested the RetraxPRO MX, we have tested and driven with the PowertraxPRO XR, which made our list of the best hard tonneau covers on the market. We also like the RetraxPRO XR for its compatibility with popular T-Slot accessories. That said, we believe Retrax is a good and trustworthy brand.

Positive customer reviews include comments on the fitment, looks, and overall quality. Negative reviews mention incorrect or damaged parts being shipped. Others feel the money they paid for the cover is not worth it.

Pace Edwards JackRabbit Tonneau Cover

The Pace Edwards Full Metal JackRabbit utilizes a unique “Continuous Tension Spring (CTS) system” to help make operation simple and quick. When the cover is unlocked, the spring system pulls it automatically into the canister to open up the bed. With the strap handle, you can close the cover completely or lock it at 12-inch stages along the rail.

We like how the Full Metal JackRabbit has a durable double-walled aluminum slat design with a semi-gloss textured black powder coat finish to provide protection from the elements. The key-lockable latch works as a theft deterrent, especially when paired with a locking tailgate.

Customer reviews of the Full Metal JackRabbit speak to its quality, fitment, and low-profile appearance. At least one reviewer has owned a JackRabbit cover for 12 years, owning three trucks during that time frame. Others report excellent customer service and speedy parts replacement (when necessary) from Pace Edwards.

Reviews about the installation are mixed. While some say it is easy, others mention it can be difficult without help and that the written instructions are unclear. Other owners say the cover is not as water-resistant as they thought.

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Best Retractable Tonneau Covers: Bottom Line

A retractable tonneau cover is ideal for those who want a secure cover that can allow for full bed access without obscuring the back window. Retractable bed covers will fit a wide range of trucks, from full-size models like a Ford F-150 to compact trucks like the GMC Canyon.

After consulting with an industry expert and testing several retractable tonneau covers, we recommend three options for truck owners:

1. Best Overall: GatorTrax.
2. Best High-End Option: Retrax EQ.
3. Best Low-Cost Retractable Tonneau Cover: Gator Recoil.

The following tonneau covers also have features we like, though we have not tested these covers ourselves:

1. Truck Covers USA American Roll Cover
2. RetraxPRO MX
3. Pace Edwards Full Metal JackRabbit

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Retractable Tonneau Covers: FAQ