Adding a tonneau cover might not be the best upgrade for your Tundra Crewmax but an important one especially when you have to carry things frequently. And that’s why, when you’re going to install one, you need to look for the best tonneau cover for Tundra Crewmax because you don’t want to spend your money on a bad one.
When I’m here, don’t worry about that. I’ve got a long experience of using tonneau covers and helping a lot of my clients to get the covers installed. As a result, I’ve listened to their experience too. Depending on those, and also reviews of other users, I’m going to talk about the best you’ll find in the market.
The tonneau covers I’ve talked about here in this article are surely the top picks for your Tundra Crewmax. Just make sure that you have an idea about what you need. Going through the article will help you to find the exact cover you’re looking for.
So, I’m not going to waste time anymore and start the reviews about my top tonneau covers for your vehicle. Let’s start.
Top 10 Best Tonneau Covers for Tundra Crewmax Review
1. Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Truck Tonneau Cover
This is one of the proper value-for-money tonneau covers you’ll find in the market. It’s simple and I’m blown away seeing its performance. Looking for a lightweight yet strong cover for your Toyota Tundra Crewmax? Go for it.
The frame of this tri-fold cover is made of aircraft-grade steel. Thus, it is a light yet strong one. Over the frame, the dual-coated cover is made of marine-grade vinyl. This heavy-duty and tear-resistant fabric ensures maximum protection from outside elements.
You can’t ignore the weathertight sealing that also ensures protection from outside elements.
You can install it within only a few minutes. Stainless steel clamps ensure easy installation if your truck has an under-the-bedrail Bedliner. Otherwise, you’ll have to drill some holes in the Bed liner.
It comes with two safety straps to secure it if you want to drive keeping the bed open. Fold it twice and buckle up the straps. You’re ready to run with an open bed.
The only thing about this cover that bothers me is it can’t be opened fully. You may get access to the full bed, but I hate the slight struggle to reach one-third under the cover.
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Cons
2. TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover
If drilling holes seems tiring to you, you can go for this one from TruXedo. TruXport Soft Roll-up tonneau cover ensures the easiest installation with the lowest effort. Clamp the frame onto the bed, put the cover on, roll it, and you’re done.
The heavy-duty frame of this cover is 1.5 inches thick. Thus it ensures a lifted-up cover that enhances the look of your truck. The cover is made of leather-grained vinyl fabric. This combination of frame and cover saves the truck bed from all kinds of weather conditions. It is very strong and can take the load of several inches of snow.
Many soft roll-up covers have the issue of shrinking. However, the pre-set tension control in TruXport has solved the problem of shrinking and keeps it tight. Thus, water or dirt accumulation doesn’t happen.
I love how it allows you to access the full bed. I mean, see there is no hiding spot. You won’t have to struggle to reach any corner of the bed. To drive with an open bed, roll it up, and lock it with the strap. You’re good to go.
You’ll love this as much as I do. I’m sure.
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Cons
3. BAK BAKFlip G2 Hard Folding Truck Bed Cover
There are a lot of reasons to love hardcovers, but this one from BAK has many more. BAKFlip G2 from BAK is a low-profile, versatile, and durable tonneau cover that you should love. Want to know why I’m praising this lot? Let’s check.
Let’s start with the frame. The panels of BAKFlip G2 are made of high-quality, solid, and UV-resistant aluminum for strength within lightweight. The EPS foam core with an aluminum skin on both sides has made it sturdy enough.
The best thing about this one is it is full of a lot of user-friendly features. The dual-action tailgate seal lets you operate the tailgate keeping the cover open or closed. Also, you can open it easily from either side of the bed when needed.
I love this for another reason. You can drive while keeping your bed fully closed, partially open, or fully open. It comes with prop rods to hold the cover upright and give you 100% access to the bed, that too not blocking the third brake light. Also, when it is partially closed, there are safety ropes to hold it.
When closed, it can handle up to 300 lbs. on it if distributed evenly.
Installing it is really easy. After installation, it stays low-profile and ensures a seamless appearance.
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4. UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
This one from UnderCover is a great alternative to the previous one from BAK. It comes with almost everything that the BAKflip G2 has. So, if you’re looking for the best tonneau cover for Tundra Crewmax, consider this one too.
Just like G2, it also comes with a very low-profile design as it sits flush with the truck bed. Still, it gives an attractive look as it comes with a glossy finish. But I bet it does far better compared to the G2. FRP composite material is used to build the frames. This material is stronger, lighter, and more dent-resistant compared to aluminum.
Also, it is fully waterproof. It comes with a full perimeter seal that prevents water penetration. Besides, it has built-in drains to drive water away.
It also comes with the scope of driving in three positions- fully closed, partially open, and fully open. The prop rods keep it standing stable at 90 degrees while driving, but it may cover the third brake light. Also, you can secure it with the safety ropes when the cover is partially closed.
It is also equipped with automatic latching panels. So, you can open it from either side. The dual-action locking system allows you to open or close the tailgate keeping it closed.
Installing it doesn’t require any effort at all.
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5. Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
I’m not but if you’re a fan of the soft folding cover, I suggest picking this tonneau cover from Gator ETX. I love how easy and quick to install it is. You won’t require more than 10-12 minutes to get it installed on your truck bed.
It comes with a sturdy and durable frame made of high-quality aluminum. The industrial-strength vinyl fabric over the frame covers and saves the truck bed from weather conditions and elements. Smart sealing in the perimeter doesn’t allow water to enter inside.
You can drive keeping it unfolded or folded. When folded fully, it covers one-third of the bed. You’ll find safety straps to lock it in the position.
The top-mount and sleek design help your truck to carry a low-profile look. You’ll need no tool to get it installed. Just use the clamps and you’re all set to go. Also, you can easily remove it if you need the full bed.
It also comes with an affordable price tag. So, if you have a strict budget, try this one.
Pros
Cons
6. MaxMate Soft Roll Up Truck Tonneau Cover
MaxMate can be your true mate if your budget is restricted. Coming with a reasonable price tag, this soft roll-up bed cover gives your truck bed good protection from weather elements.
Aircraft-grade side rails ensure strong and perfect hold whereas the marine-grade vinyl cover ensures the safety of things on your truck bed. For comfortable rolling up, it comes with horizontal crossbars. Besides, these also help the cover to stay flat.
To ensure better protection, it comes with Velcro strip locks at the sides.
It is locked with a latch-lock system. Besides, it has an integrated tension system that keeps the cover tight. As a result of it, the vinyl cover remains free from wrinkles and the look remains protected for a long time.
Drilling is not needed to install it if your vehicle has an under-the-bedrail bedliner. Otherwise, small holes are needed to be cut. But the process is very simple and easy if you’re a basic DIYer.
As it is a soft roll-up cover, you can drive while keeping it fully open. To secure it in the rolled-up position, there are safety straps. And when the bed is covered fully, it increases the aerodynamics of your truck.
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7. Tonno Pro Tonno Fold Soft Folding Tonneau Cover
This is another option for you if you’re in love with soft-folding tonneau covers. The name Tonno Pro says that it is a pro cover, which is somehow right in my opinion. Let’s talk about what it offers.
Let’s start with the materials. The frame is built using powder-coated aluminum. It ensures a strong and durable frame with light weight. This has also made it great for one-hand use. The side rails and clamps are made of heavy duty material for maximum protection and perfection.
Double-sided vinyl creates the cover to keep the inside safe from weather elements. The edging comes in a design that doesn’t allow water to enter the bed.
While running, you can keep the cover open. For this, fold it twice towards the cab and use the straps to secure it in the position. Now you’re ready to run. When closed, it stays locked from the inside. So your things are safe.
The zero-drilling installation allows setting it up alone. It comes in a pre-assembled condition. Just use the clamps to lick the rails in the place and you’re done. You can do this job within 10 minutes.
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8. Syneticusa Retractable Hard Tonneau Cover
I’ll get one of these when the budget won’t be a restriction for me, I’m sure. While setting this up for one of my clients, I’ve just loved this cover. I guess you want to know why. Keep reading.
The best feature of this retractable cover is the lock. You can lock it in any spot you want with the help of the key or latch. This is a big advantage.
It is made of durable and high-quality material that ensures maximum protection from theft and weather elements. The slats are made of heavy-duty aluminum with a matte-black textured powder finish. Thus it is strong and can hold up to 500 lbs. if you distribute the weight evenly on it.
It keeps water away from the bed using the drainage system. But for this, you’ll have to drill holes. Otherwise, the installation process is super simple and doesn’t take a lot of your time.
After installation, it gives your truck a smooth and attractive look. I love the thing that this look won’t fade away easily because of the UV-resistant feature.
Overall this is the best Crawmax truck cover that you can pick if budget is not a big matter to you.
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9. Rugged Liner E-Series Hard Folding Truck Bed Cover
Rugged Liner is a dependable option if you’re looking for a hard folding cover. This tri-fold cover is made of compact aluminum. The frame is made of powder-coated aluminum while the panels are aluminum skins with solid cores.
Just like other tri-fold covers, it blocks easy access to one-third of the truck bed. But if you’re a fan of folding covers, this won’t be a big matter to you. You can drive while keeping the cover open if you secure it with the strap.
This cover is super easy to install as it comes completely assembled. You’ll get strong and durable clamps to set it in its place. Also, you can easily uninstall it, within 6 minutes, if you don’t want it on your truck bed. When it sits on your bed, the sleek and low-profile design brings a simple look.
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10. Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
This is the last cover I’m suggesting to you. It is from extang to provide you with a dependable and strong option if you’re looking for a hard tonneau cover for Crewmax.
The best thing about this cover is the EnduraShield panels. These 1-inch thick panels are made of a polypropylene core and aluminum sheets on both sides. This structure has made these dent-resistant and strong to hold evenly distributed load. Besides, the black matte powder finish ensures UV resistance.
The panels are set on a strong aluminum frame. The jaw-grip clamps and EZ-lock clamps hold the cover in its place properly.
It comes with watertight seals around so that water can’t enter the bed. Besides, it saves your things from other weather materials too. You can also keep it open at the time of driving. Two security straps hold it when folded.
Don’t worry about the installation process. It comes as assembled unit. So, you can just unbox it and install it on your truck bed. You won’t have to be a pro for this.
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Best Tonneau Cover for Tundra Crewmax Buying Guide
While picking the right tonneau cover, most people become confused because there are a lot of types available in the market. Besides, a lot of things are there to check before picking one. That’s why this thing is damn confusing.
But don’t worry. If you find the answers to some common questions, you’ll be capable of picking the best one for you.
Now, I’m trying to provide a common guideline about buying a tonneau cover by answering some common questions that people ask about it. I hope this will help you to pick the best Tundra Crewmax tonneau cover.
What is the first thing to consider?
The primary thing to consider while buying a tonneau cover is the type of cover. You’ll find a lot of types including hard folding cover, soft folding cover, soft rolling, and many more.
I’ll discuss more the types and pros and cons a bit later. Don’t forget to check that part.
Just make sure to find the type you want, and search for the covers of that type.
Well, what else should we check?
After you pick your type, check for the fit. As the parameters of covers vary depending on the model and make of the vehicle, make sure that the covers you’re shortlisting are suitable for your truck.
It matters a lot. If you don’t pick the right one, installing will be a hassle and you’ll end up in a mess.
What about the materials?
Yes, the materials are important too. I suggest going for materials that are light but strong. Strength is the main parameter here.
Most soft covers come with an aluminum frame and vinyl fabric. These two are great materials for a tonneau cover. However, if you find better materials than these, go for that.
You’ll find some hard covers made of fiberglass. Though those are not suitable options for me, you can go for those if other things are okay.
What else is important?
Your access to the truck bed is extremely important. Though it depends on what type of materials you’re carrying, I think you should pick one that allows full access to the bed.
Another important thing about a tonneau cover is user-friendliness. It is defined by the features like quick locking, easy opening, and closing, easiness to install, etc. Everything that makes it comfortable to use defines user-friendliness.
Look for such features.
How tough is a tonneau cover to install?
Tonneau covers are not tough to install at all in most cases. You’ll find a lot of these that are installed just using clamps. I suggest picking you those. If you do so, you won’t have to go to a garage near you.
Also if you have experience with light DIY, you can go for the covers that required a light modification to install. Thus, you’ll have a wider range of covers from which you can pick yours.
Don’t worry much about this because roughly you’ll have to run to a mechanic to install a tonneau cover.
What should be my budget?
The budget should depend on the type and quality you want. If you’re looking for a soft top, 200-300 USD is enough to find a good one. For hard top, you’ll have to add 200-300 more.
If you’re looking for a retractable or automatic tonneau cover, you’ll have to spend somewhat around 1000 USD.
However, don’t cut in the quality to match your budget. Arrange a few more bucks if you can.
I hope these replies will aid you to pick the best truck bed cover for Toyota Crewmax.
7 Best Types of Tonneau Cover Available in the Market
I’ve already said that there are a lot of Types of Truck bed covers available in the market. So, being confused is an obvious matter. In this section, I’ve talked about the types of tonneau covers with their pros and cons so that you can pick one that is the most appropriate for you.
1. Soft Roll-up Tonneau Covers
These types of covers are typically made of fabric and can be rolled up towards the cab fully.
The main advantage of a soft roll-up cover is the use of the bed. You can use the bed fully as it doesn’t take a huge space when rolled up. Another advantage of it is the price. You’ll find these within a reasonable price range.
The issue with this type of cover is it can’t save your goods for theft. Anyone can cut the fabric and steal your things.
So, it is suitable when you’re looking for an option within a tight budget and don’t carry expensive goods on your truck bed.
2. Hard Roll-up Tonneau Covers
These are similar to the soft roll-ups but made of aluminum or such materials instead of fabric. Thus it protects your goods from theft.
This is the main advantage of this type of cover. You can put some weight on these too. Besides, it comes with other advantages of a soft roll-up cover. But you’ll have to pay some more bucks if you want one of these to cover your truck bed.
3. Soft Folding Tonneau Cover
These are the covers that come with a foldable frame covered with fabric. You’ll find tri-fold or quad-fold covers in most cases. There are also a few bi-fold covers.
I think the main advantage of this cover is the fabric doesn’t shrink easily in it because of the frame. Besides, it gives the advantage of having the bed partially open. This can be a disadvantage too if you want your full bed open. Also, it is vulnerable to theft.
The price range is typically lower than hard roll-up and higher than a soft roll-up cover.
4. Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
These are covers with frames that can be folded, but with hard sheets of aluminum or other material. You’ll see bi-fold, tri-fold, and quad-fold covers here too.
It allows you to fold easily and quickly. Besides, it ensures better protection from theft. Because of offering a good quality within a medium price range, most people like this type of cover.
Just like the soft ones, it covers some part of the bed when it is open. You’ll see some of these covers come with the ability to stay standing parallel or leaning to the cab. This solves the problem but covers the third brake light.
5. Retractable Tonneau Cover
As the name says, it retracts itself when you don’t need to cover the bed. Typically these are hard covers, but you’ll find a few softs too.
The best thing about a retractable cover is you can lock it anywhere. So, you can expose the bed depending on how much you need it. To me, this is a great advantage.
But the price range is very high because of the mechanism and features.
6. Electric Tonneau Cover
The type of cover that is controlled by itself through an electric mechanism is called an electric tonneau cover. In this cover, the working unit is installed near the cab and you can control it through a remote.
The best feature of it is you can control it from a distance. In most cases, it can be locked anywhere, just like the retractable one. You’ll find both soft and hard covers. I suggest picking up the hard ones.
It comes with a high price tag. So, you should keep a good amount for it.
7. Hinged Tonneau Cover
A hinged tonneau cover is a type that is a one-piece lid supported by hinges. You need to open it by pushing the cover up.
As it comes as a one-piece cover, it gives a good look. You can paint your favorite art on it. This makes it classy and good to look at.
The disadvantage is it limits the use of your truck. As it can’t be folded or rolled up, things you keep on the truck bed should be shorter than the height of the bed.
So, these are the common types of tonneau covers you’ll see in the market. Check the pros and cons and you’ll understand which one to pick.
FAQs About Tundra Crewmax Tonneau Cover
Does Tonneau Cover Improve Gas Mileage?
This is a bit confusing. Some have experienced an improvement in gas mileage but some haven’t found any difference in mileage before and after tonneau cover. When you don’t use a bed cover, airflow gets stuck in the bed because of the tailgate. As a result, your mileage becomes a bit negatively affected. That is your normal mileage.
When you add tonneau cover, airflow doesn’t get stuck. Thus you may get improved mileage. However, it adds some weight to your vehicle. Thus the gained mileage becomes deducted too. So, the result is zero in most cases.
Is a Tonneau Cover Mandatory?
It depends on your preference. Typically tonneau covers are used for two types of protection- protection from weather elements (dust, water, sun rays, snow, etc.) and protection from theft.
If you think that the things you carry need protection, you can go for a cover. Otherwise, buying a cover is not necessary. Also, if you want, you can pick a truck cover to improve the look of your vehicle.
Can Tonneau Covers Go through Car Wash?
Most tonneau covers are made to be safe to go through an automatic car wash. Check what the manufacturer says about it. However, in my case, I don’t suggest letting any soft tonneau cover go through an automatic car wash. It might not rip it off instantly but weaken enough and reduce durability.
Tundra Crewmax Tonneau Cover Installation Video
Final Verdict
As you’re looking for the best tonneau cover for Tundra Crewmax, I guess you’ve already found yours from the suggestions. The covers I’ve talked about are the most trusted and highly rated ones by the users. So, you know how the quality can be.
If you haven’t picked one yet, go through the features of the covers again and relate to your need. This will help you to pick the best match for your need.
References:
- in-depthoutdoors.com/forums/topic/truck-tonneau-covers/
- https://truck-hero.com/how-to-choose-a-truck-bed-cover
- ooltruck.com/whats-best-for-me/what-type-of-bed-cover/
- youtube.com/watch?v=NduR-YSHo7M
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