Best Tonneau Cover f150: Ford Truck Bed Reviews & Comparisons

Tonneau is a French word that loosely means an opening. The direct translation is cask, but in our modern American era, we refer to any open cargo area of a car or truck. The passenger area in a convertible car, for example, is a tonneau. On your truck, it would be the truck bed. A tonneau cover, then, is a piece designed to cover the truck bed.

This article will explain the various types of covers, materials used, and what to look for when buying a tonneau cover for your Ford F-150. We also review the 7 best tonneau covers for your Ford truck. Read on to find out which cover is best for your year F-150.

Why Tonneau Covers Are Worth Investing In

The biggest question besides “what does tonneau mean?” is “are tonneau covers worth it?” The answer is, yes, tonneau covers are worth the investment for quite a few reasons. For starters, they help secure your cargo. Unless you are hauling large furniture or appliances, the cover will secure the cargo and keep it from the elements. A cover will also help the aesthetics of the truck. Giving you a sleek and stylish look, a tonneau cover also adds aerodynamics.

It may not improve your speed, but it will help prevent drag from the tailgate and give the airflow a shorter distance to travel. When installed properly, a cover can improve gas mileage by up to ten percent. Depending on the type of cover you get, though, there are a few downsides. Hauling large furniture, for example, is difficult if you have to remove the cover altogether. You may also find it challenging to get items out of the bed of the truck if the cover doesn't retract all of the way or roll-up.

Another complaint is that the covers are cumbersome, and quick-loading the bed can become a thing of the past. However, the negatives are far outweighed by the benefits, and the covers are highly recommended.

Types of F150 Truck Bed Covers

By now, in your research, you have noticed that there are various types of tonneau covers. What are the differences, and how do they compare to each other? Let’s take a look.

Folding Vs. Hinged

The covers open in several ways, and two of those are folding and hinged. A hinged tonneau cover will attach to the cab side of the truck bed and open from the tailgate side. The hinges allow the cover to open like a mouth. A folding cover will fold over on itself (usually with three panels, called a tri-fold).

The hinged covers were one of the original designs but were quickly replaced because they didn’t allow larger items to be stored in the bed area without complete removal. They are still popular because of the better weather-proofing.

If you don’t plan to haul anything larger than the bed or you have a show truck that doesn’t haul at all, a hinged cover adds a better aesthetic. Likewise, if you plan to use the truck to haul furniture, appliances, or want more convenient access to a part of the bed (not always the entire space), a folding tonneau cover is better.

Retractable Vs. Roll Up

Retractable covers work more like a window shade, where you pull out to extend, and it rolls up (into the bed) when you open it. A roll-up cover then is a manual opening where the cover rolls over itself (on top of the bed) as much or as little as you need.

Both use a rail system to slide or roll on and can lock in place using the tailgate to block access to the opening mechanism. Roll-up styles are more popular because they can be adjusted. Retractable covers are designed to be either opened or closed, but only a few models allow partial opening.

Soft Top Vs. Hard

The four types of F150 tonneau covers come in two styles, soft top or hardtop. In general, your folding and hinged types will be hardtop while the rolling and retractable models are generally soft top. However, a tri-fold can come in soft or hard top versions.

Soft tops are made from vinyl or ABS plastics and must be pulled tight to prevent fluttering while driving. Hardtops are made of fiberglass or aluminum framing covered in vinyl. The way the two attach is different, too.

Soft covers will have a tie strap or a Velcro-style fastener system unless they have a rigid frame. Hardtops will have a frame they are mounted to, which can mount with rails, slide-locks, or even bolting directly to the bed frame.

Features to Look for in an F150 Tonneau Cover

When shopping for a new tonneau cover for your Ford F150, there are some important aspects to consider before you throw your money on the counter. Let’s cover what those aspects are and why they are important considerations.

Purpose, Bed Size & Cover Weight

The reason for getting a tonneau cover is going to be different for everyone. That purpose, though, will decide which type you get. If you are looking for aesthetics, for example, a hard top hinged cover may be best. On the other hand, if you are looking for improved gas mileage and easy access to the bed, a tri-fold option may be your best option.

You will also want to consider the size of your bed, as not all covers are created equal. Hardtop covers are not lightweight, and you may find yourself having to remove them during times when you need to haul bulkier items to stay within the towing capacity of your truck.

Durability

With an investment like a tonneau cover, you also want to make sure that the construction and build are high-quality and durable. Most covers are weather-resistant, and the covers themselves are waterproof. However, a lot of the designs leave some gaps between the bed frame and the cover latch, which means water can still get inside the bed area.

Aluminum framing is also more durable than ABS plastic. While it may be heavier or harder to install, it is more reliable and generally comes with a more extended warranty. When it comes to durability, the build materials, construction, and fit are the biggest factors.

Vehicle Compatibility

Your Ford F-150 will vary in shape and size. Some models have extended beds, extended cabs, flare-sides, sport-sides, short bed, the list goes on. Each year, make, and model can have variances of several feet in both width and length of the bed.

You need to accurately measure your bed for complete compatibility for the cover you choose. While most have a drop-down guide to help you select the right size, knowing the measurements is the only way to be 100 percent sure the cover will fit.

Security & Safety

Another vital thing to think about is how secure and safe the cover will be. Some models will have locks on them to keep them from being opened. Others will rely on the tailgate to be closed and locked to block access to the opening mechanism.

If you don’t have a locking tailgate, you may want to look for a tonneau cover that locks itself. Of course, hardtop covers will be more challenging to break into that soft covers. They will also protect your cargo a little better, as well.

Aesthetic Design

If design is your thing and you want to make sure your truck has an appealing aesthetic, you will want to look for flush mount options. Most of the roll-up models will be a flush mount, meaning they are level with the top of the truck bed. Other designs sit on top of the bed frame or even extend past it. The overall look will determine which one you purchase based on how you want the truck to look once it is installed.

Installation & Maintenance

As with any other part of your truck, the tonneau cover should be easy to install. Most installations will require making mounting holes, screwing into the bed or frame of your F150. Others will attach with clamps or slot-and-groove style attachments. Most of the time, though, installing a cover is a two-person job. If you aren’t comfortable with the installation, you can take it to your local mechanic and have the cover professionally installed.

Maintenance is another factor. Because the covers are weatherproof, you can wash them just as easily as you do the rest of your truck. You will need to be wary of water build-up, especially in the areas where there are gaps between the cover and frame. Rust isn’t something you want to notice later on.

Price & Warranty

Finally, your budget will play a deciding factor in which tonneau cover you decide to purchase. Besides the overall cost, though, you need also to consider the warranty that comes with it. A larger price tag might stretch your budget. However, the extended warranty may prove to end up saving you money in the long run.

Make sure you read all the fine print in the warranty details to ensure you meet the requirements for making a claim. These can be small issues like maintaining proof of purchase, professional installation, or even keeping the original packaging. Once you understand the warranty, you can factor it into your budget.

1. Tyger Auto TG-BC3F1042

Tyger Auto gives us the best soft top tri-fold tonneau cover for your F150. It uses an aluminum frame covered with waterproof vinyl and a clamp-style attachment system. The front clamps lock down for security while the rear clamps use a grip-and-slide mechanism for quick installation and easy access.

This model will fit all F150’s years 2015 through 2019 with a 6.5-foot bed (measured inside the frame.). They also make the cover for the shorty bed (5.5 foot) and the extended bed (8 foot). You can choose your year, make and model from the drop-down to ensure you select the right option.

When the cover is closed, it produces a water-tight seal to help prevent water from washing or rain getting in the bed area. While it isn’t waterproof, it works well for most applications. It is recommended that you remove the cover when running the truck through the car wash and reattaching after the cover and bed frame are completely dry.

Tyger Auto does offer a lifetime warranty that protects the aircraft-grade aluminum frame and the waterproof vinyl. It is important to note, though, that if you order the wrong size, you assume responsibility. While they will accept the return and send the correct size, you will pay for the return shipping.

If your truck has a bed liner, you need to note if it is over the frame rail or under. If the liner is over the frame rail style, you will need to drill holes for the clamps to work properly. Under the rail, style liners do not require this modification.

2. RetraxPRO XR T-80371

The exquisite cover from RetraxPRO is the best retractable tonneau cover for F150 on the market. While it is the most expensive model, it also has some unique features you won’t find anywhere else. For example, you won’t lose the use of any bed space, even with the unit retracted fully.

The 90-pound cover sets flush with the bed frame and doesn’t obstruct the T-slots. If you have bed rails, crossbeams, or any other T-slot device, you can still use the cover for your bed cargo. The cover itself also lock, and it will lock in any position. So, if you have cargo that requires a retracted tonneau cover, you can pull the XR T-80371 where ever you want it and lock it into place.

The durable framing and vinyl cover prevent debris and water from entering your bed area and keeps your cargo secure. When you don’t have cargo, the aerodynamics allow the wind to push over the bed area instead of into it, helping to minimize drag and increase gas mileage.

To top it all off, you also get a lifetime warranty to cover the entire cover, frame, and craftsmanship. While the price may not be within everyone’s budget, for those that can afford it, the RetraxPRO is undoubtedly the best investment you can make in your F150.

3. TruXedo Truxport 297701

The Truxport from TruXedo is the best roll-up tonneau cover for your F150 that you will find. RuXedo focuses on a designer aesthetic and affordable price tag rolled into one. Pun intended. The roll-up cover comes with safety straps to keep the cover in place when you have it rolled back.

Installation is simple as well and can be accomplished by one person. Six clamps hold the cover railings, and a simple socket wrench will tighten them down so they don't come loose. Once in place, you can unroll the cover and latch it in place, like closing a trunk.

If you have a locking tailgate, access to the roller lock release won’t be accessible, helping to keep your cargo secure. It also comes with a weatherproof lip that seals out the elements when it is closed. The leather cover material is waterproof, snowproof, and UV resistant. With a 5-year warranty, you won’t have to worry about a thing for a long while. There are cross members to aid in support when the cover is closed and can be hand-washed or make it through an automatic car wash with ease.

The downside is that the cover only secures in the full-open or fully-closed positions, so partial access and closing don’t work. With a quick install, easy open and close latches, and a weatherproof design, you can’t go wrong.

4. MAXMATE TCF371019

MAXMATE offers you the soft-top trifold tonneau cover designed for your 5.5-foot bed. Similar to our top pick, this model will install in minutes and uses quick clamps in the rear with secure clamps in the front. Installation is better done with two people, but a single person with patience can accomplish the install in less than 30 minutes. The aircraft aluminum framing and crossbars provide a snug fit with a durable skeleton to withstand multiple openings and closings.

The cover is made from waterproof vinyl but does sit on the top of the bed frame. During heavy rains or washings, the cover can allow water into the cargo area of the truck bed. Under normal conditions and light rain, the cargo area will stay dry, though.

The unit will fold back on itself twice, and can be secured in any of the folded positions. It does not lock, though access to the opening of the cover is accessed through the open tailgate. The MAXMATE is the least expensive model on our top list, and there are a few issues with installing over a bed liner. However, for the price and convenience, those on a tighter budget will appreciate the security and fuel-savings the MAXMATE offers.

5. Extang Trifecta 2.0 92475

The Trifecta 2.0 from Extang is a mighty step up from the budget-friendly model listed above. The soft top, triple fold unit is designed with an aluminum frame and leather-grain cloth material to resist sun fading and promote weather-proofing.

You can install the cover over a bed liner or directly on the bed frame. With spin-lock clamps, you can have the unit installed in less than 20-minutes. The cover locks with quick-release clamps that are only accessible with the tailgate down.

If you need the entire cover out of the way, you can remove the cover in less than 5-minutes. It re-seats in less than 20, so furniture hauling is made simple. When fully open, you will lose about 2 feet of bed space, but the safety straps keep the cover from flapping or slamming closed during travel.

A limited lifetime warranty covers the investment so you can feel good about your purchase. Customer service is easy to contact and doesn’t hesitate to help their customers. If you want a reliable, weatherproof, and easy to install tri-fold cover, the Trifecta 2.0 is your answer.

6. Rough Country 45515550

If you are looking for rugged, sturdy, and dependable, you want Rough Country. The Rough Country hardtop tri-fold tonneau cover is one of a kind. It comes fully assembled, so all you have to do is clamp it in place. Installation by to people takes about 5 minutes.

The 6061 aluminum is the strongest it gets, so your frame won’t bend or buckle. The marine-grade waterproof vinyl cover is durable, fade-resistant, and weatherproofed on all four sides. You won’t have to worry about freeway wobble, rain, washing or wind. While the hardtop cover isn’t the most budget-friendly model available, you won’t find a better quality hardtop cover anywhere else. The safety harness will keep the best hard folding tonneau cover for your F150 in place when open.

If you need the entire thing removed, you can have it off and stored in less than 5 minutes, back on again when you are ready in another 5 minutes. The total weight of 52 pounds makes it easier to handle and sturdy when closed. The quick-release clamps keep the cover down and secure when the tailgate is closed. The lifetime replacement warranty also puts your mind at ease. If anything ever goes wrong, you only need to make a phone call, and Rough Country will send you a replacement. It doesn’t get much better than that.

7. BAK Revolver X2 39329

The BAK Revolver X2 is the best hard roll-up tonneau cover available. The solid construction and all-aluminum cross frames are not only easy to install, but simple to use. You won’t struggle with a single aspect and can open the cover from either side of the bed.

One-person operation means quick and simple use of the cover. Once the tailgate is open, you can pull down to release the track-length locking plate and roll the cover back towards the cab. The effortless roll makes it easy to open partially or entirely, depending on your needs. One of the best features is the low profile install that leaves the T-slots open for use by any T-slot device. Unlike the RretraxPRO model, though, T-Slot items may need to be removed to roll up the cover.

The waterproof design also allows you to go anywhere, in any conditions, knowing your cargo is safe and dry. If you do have a plastic liner, you may have to drill holes or cut away portions of the liner to get the cover to install. Spray-in liners won’t have any problems. You get a 3-year warranty with your purchase, and the BAK team is easy to get ahold of, and they are happy to fix any issue that may come up.

F150 Truck Bed Cover Materials

What should your tonneau cover material consist of, and why? Let’s take a look at the most popular construction materials.

Vinyl

Vinyl is the most popular material. You will see the marine-grade vinyl used the most, and while it isn’t made by the guys marching with rifles, it should be. This waterproof material is pliable, affordable, and tough as nails. If the entire cover isn’t made from vinyl, you can bet that some part of it is.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is made with hardened resin and is superior in strength and durability. It costs a lot to manufacture, though, and those costs are passed on to you. You get what you pay for, as they say, though, and you can have the fiberglass painted to match your truck. It also lips over the bed frame, which makes fiberglass the only true 100% waterproof material available.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the secure, lightweight answer to fiberglass. For most roll up and hardtop covers, there is a layer of aluminum involved. Because aluminum is cheap to manufacture, strong, and durable, it makes a perfect tonneau cover material. You can lock it, slide it, roll it, or fold it to fit any cover design imaginable.

Plastic/ABS

Plastic, or more precisely, ABS polymer, is a cross-hatch plastic design that distributes weight and provides a smooth, solid surface. It is one of the most aerodynamic of the covers, and aside from an all-vinyl cover, plastic covers are the most lightweight. They aren’t as durable to the elements as long as the other options but will hold up for enough years to get your money’s worth.

Measuring the Truck Bed

To get the best fit for your Ford F150 tonneau cover, you need an accurate measurement of your bed. Each bed will be different, even in the same make and year. There are various models and bed sizes you can choose from, so you must know the exact measurements to go by.

Measuring your truck bed isn’t difficult. A tape measure is all you will need. You can call the local dealership, and they can look it up for you, but it is faster to take the measurement yourself. First, you need to know which bed style you have. The four most common bed styles are a regular cab, extended cab, sport side/flare side, and crew cab/super cab.

The only measurement you need is the length of the bed. This is the inside length from bulkhead (the part against the cab) to the tailgate. Remember, this is the inside measurement, so you want to measure from the edge of the frame on the inside of the bed rail to the inside of the tailgate. Once you have your measurement, be prepared to round up. Most tonneau manufacturers will round to the nearest half-foot. A measurement, then of 60 inches, or 5-feet, would use a 5.5-foot bed cover.

Installing F150 Truck Bed Covers

There are a lot of different ways that tonneau covers are installed. Rail-style sliding models, for example, will need the rails mounted using pre-drilled holes and mounting hardware. Most of the top styles (and those found on this review list), use various clamps to secure the cover to the truck.

Installation is fairly straightforward, and each cover will come with a comprehensive instruction sheet outlining what needs to be done for a proper fit and install. Basically, though, you can follow these steps for a clamp-style installation.

Most tonneau covers will come with a weatherproof seal, but if you find there are gaps, or your model doesn’t offer a seal, you can apply weatherstripping to the railing around your bed frame. When the cover is latched, it will compress the weatherstrip to create a weatherproof seal.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Let’s answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about your Ford F150 tonneau covers.

Do truck covers really save a lot of space in the bed?

They can, yes. The vinyl roll-up styles, for example, can roll and be tied to only take up a few inches of real estate. Hardtop and tri-fold styles are generally low profile enough not to protrude more than an inch or two.

Can I drive with my cover open?

On some models, they are designed to be driven either open or closed. To drive with the tonneau cover open, they must be secured. Most covers will come with ties or latches that you can use when they are open. If the cover isn’t a retractable style, and it doesn’t latch in the open position, you shouldn’t drive with it open.

How can I lock a tonneau cover?

Some tonneau covers come with locks. Aluminum rails have locks that slide into the cover grooves to prevent them from moving or being opened. Others will “hide” their opening latches behind the closed tailgate. If your tailgate locks, then the cover is locked.

Are F150 tonneau covers waterproof?

The covers themselves are waterproof, but most are rated weather-resistant because they can develop gaps between the bed rail and cover bottom, which will allow rain or water in. The only true waterproof cover is a fiberglass cover with a four-side overhang.

Do tonneau covers really increase mileage?

Tonneau covers can increase gas mileage as much as 10 percent. With the cover closed, they reduce the drag created by the tailgate. When the air comes over the cab, it will push down on the truck bed, giving it a more stable squat on the ground, which can help the aerodynamics as well. Don't expect to notice massive gains in your fuel tank, but an average of a gallon extra per tank isn’t a bad thing.

How long do tonneau covers last?

Tonneau covers will vary in their longevity based on a few factors. Soft covers will generally not last as long as hardtop covers. The construction material will play a part as well. Vinyl won’t last as long as aluminum, for example. In general, though, a tonneau cover will maintain tautness, shape, and closure for several years.

Conclusion