If you’ve driven a pick-up truck for more than a month, you know what a hassle it is to keep your cargo in place and safe. Luckily, there’s an easy solution to keeping stuff in the truck bed safe and sound – a simple roll-up tonneau cover.
According to Price in the 2018 spring issue of Ballistic Magazine, Tonneau covers are soft or hard coverings that protect the cargo bed of a truck. The primary purpose of Tonneau covers is security to keep elements or harm out from the personal baggage and belongings placed at the back.
So if you’re looking for the best roll-up truck bed tonneau cover, keep on reading!
Top 5 Best Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover on the Market 2025 Reviews
After a month of testing, here are the top 5 best roll-up truck bed Tonneau covers:
1. Gator ETX Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Construction and Quality: 4.5/5
- Level of Protection: 4.5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4.5/5
- Value for Money: 4.5/5
The Gator roll-up tonneau cover is fully built in the US. While this doesn’t have to attest to its quality, at least you’ll have an easier time dealing with customer service.
When it comes to installation, it’s super-easy. This tonneau cover simply clamps onto the truck bed rails. It took me less than an hour to have it fully installed.
The latches on the Gator ETX are pretty durable and they didn’t lose tension one bit during my test. With that said, I did notice the clips are a bit too sharp so if you accidentally hit your leg on them, you’re going to get cut.
The cover rolls out pretty nicely and there’s a strap that will hold it secure. One thing I had an issue with is how I had to fidget with the tension handles whenever I rolled out the cover so they lock up properly, but that’s a minor inconvenience.
The coolest thing about the Gator ETX is how much weight it can handle. I left my truck outside during a snowstorm. There was almost 3 feet of snow on the cover and it didn’t bend on it. On top of that no water managed to get inside the truck bed – impressive.
I especially love that it comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and a warranty of ten years for the tarp. That’s a pretty generous deal when you factor in how affordable it is.
| Pros | Cons |
| Very affordable | The locking clamp needs a bit of fidgeting to lock properly |
| Extremely durable | |
| Easy to install |
2. TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Construction and Quality: 4.5/5
- Level of Protection: 4/5
- Ease of Installation: 5/5
- Value for Money: 4.5/5
The next tonneau cover is also fully built in the USA. The TruXerdo TruXport Soft roll-up tonneau cover is built out of high-quality marine-grade vinyl. On top of that, it also features crossbars for additional support when you have it fully rolled out.
The installation is super-easy since you don’t need to drill any holes in your truck bed. TruXport features a simple clamp-on rail system that takes less than an hour to install.
With that said, if your truck has an over-the-bedrail bedliner, you’ll have to drill in small holes so you can install the clamp on system.
When it comes to durability, this cover is a beast. I took it through a carwash and then drove my truck over a dirt road, and neither water nor dirt managed to get into my truck bed.
The latching system is pretty durable. There’s a spring action latch that locks when you pull the cover all the way out. As with most tonneau covers, there’s no locking mechanism, so thieves will still be able to get into your truck bed, but at least they won’t be able to see what’s in there.
Another important info is that this cover is only compatible with Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks.
| Pros | Cons |
| Super-easy and quick installation | Only compatible with GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado trucks |
| Very affordable | No locking mechanism |
| Excellent weather protection |
| Check Deal 1 | Check Deal 2 |
3. Tyger Auto T1 Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Construction and Quality: 4.5/5
- Level of Protection: 4.5/5
- Ease of Installation: 5/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
The third place on my list of best roll-up tonneau covers goes to Tyger Auto T1 cover. This product results from collaboration between the US’s and Canada’s best automotive pros.
First off, let’s start with the installation. Just like the previous two covers in this list, Tyger also doesn’t require any drilling. This cover uses clamp-on rails that take less than half an hour to install. With those on, you just simply put the cover over them.
As for the cover itself, it’s built out of marine-grade vinyl so you can rest assured no water will come through to your cargo. On top of that, the vinyl is pretty good at resisting UV radiation. This means it won’t crack after a year or two.
On top of that, the cover also features horizontal crossbars for additional support when the cover is fully rolled out.
One thing I don’t like about this cover is the straps or the lack of straps. Once you have the cover rolled up, you secure it with hooks instead of straps. I personally don’t like this because I have to get into the truck bed to secure the cover.
If you have a Dodge Ram and need an affordable roll-up cover, I would definitely give the Tyger Auto T1 Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover a try,
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely easy to install | Uses hooks instead of straps for securing when rolled out |
| Seals the truck bed pretty securely | Only compatible with Doge Ram trucks |
| Features horizontal crossbars for additional structural support |
4. MaxMate Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Construction and Quality: 4/5
- Level of Protection: 4/5
- Ease of Installation: 5/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
The last pick in my list of best roll-up truck bed tonneau covers is for all of you that are looking to save a couple of bucks. MaxMate Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is one of the most affordable roll-up covers on the market.
Just because this cover is affordable, that doesn’t mean it’s low-quality. Sure there are a couple of trade-offs, the main one being not that good of a weatherproofing, but if you’re on a tight budget and need to keep your cargo mostly water-free – this cover is the best choice for you.
The cover is built out of 1.5 lbs of marine-grade vinyl so there are no complaints there. And just like the rest of the covers in this list, it uses a clamp-on rail system. This means you can have it installed on your truck in less than an hour.
Unfortunately, after a carwash test I noticed some water managed to seep through at the tailgate seam. So, if you want to keep your cargo completely dry, I recommend you steer away from this cover.
At least you get a 10-year warranty on the entire cover, which is incredibly value when you factor in the incredibly low price.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely affordable | Not the best waterproofing |
| Easy to install | |
| Comes with a 10-year warranty |
5. Tonno Pro LR-3050 Lo-Roll Black Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Construction and Quality: 4/5
- Level of Protection: 4/5
- Ease of Installation: 5/5
- Value for Money: 5/5
By now, you should’ve figured out I have a thing for US-made roll-up covers that come with clamp-on rail systems. Well, Tonno Pro LR-3050 is no different.
First, let’s talk about installation. Just like all the other tonneau covers in this list, this one comes with a simple clamp-on rail system. It took me less than half an hour to have the cover fully installed.
Unfortunately, the cover didn’t quite well fit my truck out of the box. It was an inch short. Luckily, there’s a tension system that allows me to extend the cover for another inch.
As for weatherproofing, this cover does an admirable job. Even after a rather vigorous car wash and a nice dirt road excursion I didn’t notice any water or dirt in the truck bed. The seals are pretty snug, which is a pleasant surprise for a cover this affordable.
Another thing I love about this product is that it comes with some additional goodies including a tailgate seam, a bed light, and more. That’s incredible value!
The only thing I don’t like about this cover is the release latch. It’s coated with a thin layer of rubber that easily peels off. And oh, boy is that latch sharp. I had to sand the edges of the latch down so I wouldn’t cut my fingers when releasing this cover.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to install | The release latch is pretty sharp and can cut your fingers |
| Excellent weatherproofing | |
| Comes with extra goodies |
| Check Deal 1 | Check Deal 2 |
How I Tested & Rated The Top Roll-Up Tonneau Covers
Here are the key factors I considered when testing and rating the truck bed covers in this review:
- Construction and Quality – I assessed the quality of construction, the materials used, and how long-lasting each cover is expected to be.
- Level of Protection – I evaluated how well each cover shields your truck bed from weather, debris, and potential theft.
- Ease of Installation – I looked at how hassle-free it was to set up each cover, whether it required tools or permanent changes to your vehicle, and how user-friendly it is overall.
- Value for Money – I weighed the price of each tonneau cover against its overall value and features to determine its worth.
FAQ
1. How do you lock a roll-up truck bed cover?
You want to keep your stuff safe, right? Then this is what you should do: lock up your Tonneau cover. Security is the primary purpose of why you bought a Tonneau cover. You should be responsible for knowing how to keep your safety always. The locks of the Tonneau cover depend on the type and brand you are using. It offers different instructions and lock types based on the cover you bought.
Since they are hardcovers, they are made of materials of aluminum and fiberglass that thieves would not easily cut through. If you lock your tailgate as well, then it is difficult for others to open since the lock is on the underside of the cover. On the other hand, soft covers come with built-in locks. If the tailgate is closed, then the cover will not open because its latches clamp on the railing of the truck and the tailgate.
2. How to roll up Tonneau cover
Rolling up the Tonneau cover is a way to keep it; also, it grants complete access to the whole bed without taking much space. To roll a Tonneau cover, here is a video to guide you in rolling up your truck cargo bed’s Tonneau cover the right way.
3. How to remove a roll-up Tonneau cover
Removing a roll-up Tonneau cover still depends on the type and brand of what you have for your truck. Since the roll-up, covers are easy to install, then removing is as well. The latching system clamps tightly on the railings. Keep the tailgate as it is, open or closed, depending on the instructions and manual given, and unclasp the latches. Make sure to do it slowly to avoid scratches on your railings.
Then, roll the Tonneau cover towards the windshield. After that, remove it carefully. The removal process is just the reverse of the installation process unless the guide says otherwise.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the top 5 best roll-up truck bed tonneau covers.
Picking up a tonneau cover won’t just keep your cargo safe, it will also add value to your vehicle and even lower your gas mileage. Sure, the gas mileage part might be bordering on negligible but every cent saved is a cent earned.
I am Dave McCurdy I am the content developer on the ecodrivingusa.com website. I have 6 years of experience in marketing as an automotive major.
If you want security, you want a Diamonback.
Did you consider a bed cap instead of the tonneau cover and if so what were the factors that made you go with this set up?
Regarding the Yakima racks, are they mainly made of plastic for the mounts? you find that secure enough for a roof top tent?
Great review man. I appreciate the details! Never seen your blogs before but I’ve now subscribed and will see what els you’ve got. Thanks!
Great review. You covered every contingency I was thinking about. Thanks!
Great review Sean-Does the Atima AY3000 you reviewed fit under the Retrax?
Love the idea of the cover…. but what happened to your Yamaha generator? We have a Yamaha and struggle to find a truck bed cover that would allow room for the gen. Any solutions or ideas (other than trading in generator – we LOVE the Yamaha that you guys have (or should I say had)?
Very similar to my Roll and Lock…without the tracks….
This seems like the other comment I found earlier.
My brother suggested I might like this web site. He was totally right. This post actually made my day. You can not imagine just how much time I had spent for this info! Thanks!
Your rear water leakage into the bed may be through your tailgate step; which was an issue that I had. Rain etc was entering through the top of the tailgate/tailgate step into my bed. And then freezing where I couldn’t open the tailgate. I also had a Bedrug installed.
If you have a tool box can you just move the whole system forward or will that not work?
When is the automatic locking rod going to be available?
If you are looking for a cheaper Tonneau cover, I recommend TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover for you because it is cheaper than you expect.
Just bought mine for my Tacoma. Can’t wait.
Great article…couldnt figure out what I did wrong until I watched this..put the two side rail pieces on backwards ..have to flip them around and switch sides..i guess like a wise man told me its better to spend twice as long planning something then it is actually working on the project itself..like I said great article helped alot..
Nice will look at this option for my next one on my 2002 Tundra. Like the way this one folds.
I have something like this in my truck I love it, when it snows I roll it up to keep the weight off but most the year I use it. People like to throw their trash in the back of people’s trucks
thanks for this just bought one bout to set it up!
Awesome cover!!!! I’ve had mine on for 2 months now. Let me tell you, I can go through a car wash and my bed stays bone dry. All my expensive covers over the past years leaked like a sieve. Thanks
Good looking out! I’ve been looking for a cheap one to install just for a little extra privacy when I’m at Walmart etc. I don’t keep anything worth stealing but hey people these days you never know. But thanks
I would be wary of an aluminum coil cover in the snow belt, what to freeze. I also dislike the roll-up storage area on the bed. My luck, I will load something and bend it, making the lid not roll up easily. Just my opinion.
I had the same cover in my 13th version of Lund then set it to 15 … so 6 years under the Florida sun and it’s still great. For money, it pays for itself. I don’t see the benefit of paying $ 1,000 or more for bedspread.
I bought a roll up for my Titan and really liked it. I was worried about the fit at first and thought it would wrinkle / stretch but it was almost a year and there was no problem. According to the instructions, there are adjustment holes that can be used every few years to help secure. I had a folding lid for my former ranger but I didn’t like how once folded there was a covering still more than 1/3 of the bed. (I know some new covers use struts to push it close to the rear window.) I see that while heavy rainwater will leak between the cover and the tailgate, but partly because I installed it myself … it sure It should be a two-person job. Finally, half the price and nearly full access to my bed compared to a folding one is worth the price. Oh and it’s kind of a side velcro. I heard snaps are very difficult due to the expansion / contract of vinyl on different days.
That would be perfect because I prefer scrolling up more and that would be safer. I always hear about things in my neighborhood being stolen so I feel like it’s a matter of time. Maybe I’ll wait a little longer to save. Thanks
“I have a soft tonneau Lund Genesis and really like it. I installed it for about 20 minutes and like that, I could just roll it up. I can lock my tailgate, so it’s somewhat safe. Yes, someone could peel it back and put an arm in, or use a knife and cut it, but I also donated a high-end electronics store, etc. It has a lifetime warranty department as well. I accidentally broke one of the pins (completely my fault) and they sent me a new one after 2 days.
I like that I can roll up and drag things. I had a fiberglass tonneau on a truck before and I hated it. Leaving it out was a giant Pita. I have just sprayed myself on the bed because I have a cover on it, and just want some basic protection.”
I have been looking for a tonneau cover for my Longhorn 2020. I want a soft, roll up style, with Velcro. First I thought I wanted a shell on the headboard of the truck. After seeing some of these in my friend’s truck, I decided the tracks looked ugly when the lid was rolled up. I think the low profile, between truck beds, is the best, according to looks. I have talked to a number of internet sales companies and I have been told many lower-priced covers produced by Truxedo. Check out all the installation videos on some websites and you will find that most of them have the same locking system and aluminum rails. I think warranty is an important issue other than appearance. Access insurance is mainly a three-year warranty, of which others are five years. Truxedo Lo Pro QT is backed by a lifetime warranty. That’s the cover I want. I received a good price from a wholesale supplier for $ 375.00 + tax.