Most drivers who want window tint on their vehicles think it is just there to make their car look a little better, while some think it’s an accessory that doesn’t provide any value and makes a car look silly.
Overall, it does so much more than change the appearance of a car. It has significant benefits ranging from protecting the interior of your car from fading to protecting your own skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Understanding the benefits of window tinting begs the question of what the best window tint is for you and your vehicle.
In this article, we’re going to look at all the benefits that window tint provides, what different types are available, and help you find the best window tints for your particular needs.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for the Best Car Window Tint
- LEXEN Computer Pre-Cut Complete Tint Kit
- Choose from five shades of high-quality, scratch-resistant coating.
- LEXEN 2-Ply Premium Carbon Roll Window Tint
- You’ll have to cut it yourself, but you’ll be guaranteed a color-stable window tint without the fear of fading.
- TRUE LINE Automotive Computer Customized Pre-Cut Window Tint Kit
- Easy to apply, classy looking, and provides near-perfect protection.
- MotoShield Pro PreCut Ceramic Tint Film
- Available in a 70% tint and a great choice if your main concern is reducing interior temperature.
- Mkbrother Uncut Roll Window Tint Film
- Nicely priced and offers great UV protection and heat reduction.
- LEXEN Two Front Window Precut Tint Kit
- A high-quality and budget-friendly option if you only want to tint the front side windows of your vehicle.
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Best Car Window Tints – A Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
To help you decide which is the best window tint for your vehicle, we’ve picked out our favorites and will be talking about them below.
LEXEN Computer Pre-Cut Complete Tint Kit
Lexen is a renowned supplier of professional window films, and the company’s all windows computer pre-cut tint kit is — as the title says —a suitable option for just about every window on your car (excluding the front windscreen).
This kit is made from two-ply 1.5 mil premium window film, which makes for cooler temperatures, greater privacy, and the protection of your car’s interior — even with the lightest tint. There are five shades to choose from (5 to 50 percent), and two different shades in each kit, so you’ll be able to get the right protection for your needs.
It’s specially formulated to help block 99 percent of harmful ultraviolet rays and is resistant to scratches. The film can be applied using either a dry heat or wet heat process, whichever you’re more comfortable with. It comes with a yellow squeegee and detailed instructions, which is always a plus!
Since this product is customized, you’ll need to provide specific information about your car when purchasing.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Fitment option customized kit.
- Choice of five different shades.
- Carbon coating polyester film.
- 5 mil premium carbon film.
- Standard black color.
- 99 percent ultraviolet blocking.
- TSER Rejected 35-66 percent.
- Lifetime color stability.
- No metal.
What We Like
- Scratch-resistant coating.
- Particle technology film with excellent color stability and solar heat rejection.
- Non-reflective film.
- A great deal for a complete set of tinting films.
- Detailed installation process.
- Wet/dry heat shrink-ability.
- Blocks up to 99 percent UV rays.
What We Don’t Like
- Not always a good option for older vehicles.
Summary
This kit is available in a range of shades, at affordable prices too. If you’re going with this option, though, make sure you provide the car model details correctly. The kit isn’t available for all makes and models, so message the seller before ordering.
LEXEN 2Ply Premium Carbon Roll Window Tint Film
Here’s another great product from Lexen, this time in a roll, rather than pre-cut. The Lexen two-ply premium carbon tint film is a quality product that, again, comes in a range of various film shades.
A strong point to this option is that you’re almost guaranteed a color-stable tint that won’t fade. Built with a particle collection film that contains carbon pigments, heat resistance is top-notch, which further aids a cooler temperature.
Another one of our favorite things about this? If you have more than one vehicle you’re getting tinted, it’s a great money-saving buy, as one roll is enough to work on three or four average-sized cars. Remember to measure all your windows before ordering, though, to ensure that 20 inches is wide enough.
No tools are included, but kits are available, providing all you need.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Carbon coating polyester film.
- Two-ply layer.
- Standard black color.
- Scratch resistant.
- 5 mil thickness.
- Blocks up to 99 percent of UV rays.
- No metal.
- Choice of five different shades.
- 35-66 percent TSER rejected.
What We Like
- Easy installation.
- Scratch resistant coating film.
- Various shades available.
- Heat rejection and color stability.
- No radio signal interference.
- Wet/dry shrinkability.
What We Don’t Like
- No tools provided.
- Not in pre-cut sizes of your car windows.
Summary
The installation of tinting films for cars is often done in workshops, but that’s not what everybody wants to do nowadays. In today’s world, applying tinting films on your car can be a great achievement when you do it yourself – something you have all the right in the world to be proud of.
Tinting film manufacturers are ensuring great construction to help every car owner out there have enough protection against ultraviolet rays and get the privacy they need.
With this roll providing enough tint film for three or four cars, you’ll find that you might save some money, as long as your windows aren’t deeper than 20 inches.
TRUE LINE Automotive Computer Customized Pre-Cut Window Tint Kit
A quality choice from a top-grade brand, the TRUE LINE Automotive window tints don’t disappoint.
These are adjustable and customizable upon order from the manufacturer. You can choose whether you want to work on all the windows, just the rear, side, or front side tints, or a combination.
Depending on the year and/or model of your car, True Line can cater to all your tinting needs. Be aware, however, that kits for older cars may not be available.
The quality is very good – one of the best out there – and it doesn’t crinkle or leave creases if applied correctly. It’s also quite easy to apply yourself, so there’s nothing to feel intimidated about if you’re not exactly an expert in this area.
Like a number of the other good brands offering pre-cut car window tinting, you have a choice of four shades to select from. So, whether you’re looking for a subtle or a heavier shade, there’s a suitable option for everybody.
It also does a very good job of blocking harmful UV rays.
The pre-cut pieces are easy to set up, so you won’t have to worry about making a mistake while trimming them.
Each of these pieces have excess film surrounding them, which makes for adequate protection in transit and storage. This needs to be removed before fitting, but leave on the protective backing which comes off when you’re ready to make the final fit.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Easy-to-install kits are CAD designed
- Installation guide and how-to videos available.
- Pre-cut for all side and rear windows.
- Four shade options.
- Professional-grade material.
- Guaranteed against peeling or delaminating.
What We Like
- Perfectly fits car windows without trimming.
- Value for money – only order for the windows you want to have tinted.
- Comprehensive instructions included.
- Customer service is very good.
- Blocks UV rays.
What We Don’t Like
- Installation kit must be purchased separately.
- Some reports of incorrect sizes being sent – but this is also an area where the user needs to get their measurements right before placing an order.
Summary
This car window tint film from True Line Automotive will keep your car well-protected and shaded. They’re also easily customizable, with a choice of four shades to choose from, and you can order to fit for only a couple of windows if you prefer. All in all, you can rely on this kit to make your vehicle stand out from the crowd and give it a classy look.
MotoShield Pro PreCut Ceramic Tint Film
![DIY-MotoShield Pro Premium Precut Ceramic Window Tint for Cars,Coupes - All Sides + Rear Window [99% Infrared Heat Reduction/Blocks 99% UV]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/411WimUYILL.jpg)
These ceramic films are customizable for a perfect fit, requiring no cutting. This listing covers a wide spectrum of window types for many different types of Sedans and Coupes.
The product is made with nano-ceramic technology, which is a high-quality material that contains non-conductive and non-metallic ceramic particles. Another cool feature is that not only do these block 99 percent of ultraviolet rays, but they also have an IR rating of 95-99 percent.
The tint shade offerings are also wider in comparison to other brands. You can opt for six shades, including a 70% tint – something you won’t find elsewhere. You can even choose different tinting levels for each window. For example, you can order a darker tint for the rear glass and 50 percent on the front side windows — or any other variations you prefer.
On the downside, the manufacturer recommends you have these installed at a tint shop and states that it doesn’t claim any responsibility for installation errors that might occur.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Pre-cut sections.
- Nano ceramic tint film
- 2-millimeter thickness.
- Reduces interior temperature by up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Blocks 99 percent UV rays.
- Six shades available, from 70 percent to 5 percent.
What We Like
- Each section can be customized with a different shade.
- Environmental friendly.
- Non-metallic particles.
- Reduces infrared and ultraviolet rays by up to 99 percent.
- Easy to follow installation instructions.
- Manufacturer claims templates for all models are available.
What We Don’t Like
- Not the best car tint for first-time users.
- Manufacturer recommends professional installation.
Summary
With a lot of great features, this is a good option if you’re looking for the right color and shade to keep you protected from damaging ultraviolet rays and reduce the temperature in your car’s interior.
You’ll also definitely want to check it out if you’re interested in a lower or higher tint percentage, such as the 70%. Don’t forget that you can choose different shades for various windows, too!
Mkbrother Uncut Roll Window Tint Film Roll
Made of non-metalized material and with 50% heat rejection, this roll from Mkbrother is an affordable option for car owners on a budget. The product is manufactured from dyed film and offers up to 99% protection from UV rays.
This product has a VLT (visible light transmission) rating of just 5 percent, giving you maximum privacy and protection. It comes in a nice, stylish charcoal hue, too.
Although you have to cut it yourself, it’s still easy to install. The makers also claim it’s resistant to scratches, so you’re likely to maintain that sleek, quality look for quite a while.
On the downside, it doesn’t come with tools, and it can be quite messy to work with. If it’s your first time applying tints yourself, we recommend opting for an easier-to-apply option.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Roll size: 24 inches by 20 feet.
- Dyed film type.
- 5 percent VLT (visible light transmission).
- Non-metalized material.
- Scratch resistant.
- 99% UV solar protection.
- 50% heat rejection.
- Charcoal color.
What We Like
- 50% heat rejection keeps vehicle cool.
- Attractive dark charcoal color.
- 5 percent shade assures maximum privacy.
- 20-foot roll is enough to cover most cars.
- Budget-friendly.
- Good UV protection.
What We Don’t Like
- Not pre-cut.
- No cutting/fixing tools included.
- Doesn’t come with instructions.
- Dark tint might interfere with visibility at night or in poor weather conditions.
Summary
This is one of the best car window tints out there for buyers on a budget. The 20-foot roll will adequately cover the windows of most cars, and your privacy will be assured with the 5 percent VLT shade (think Limo), which also strives to keep you cool when the temperatures rise and prevent your upholstery from fading.
It needs a little extra care and patience to apply, though, and no tools are included with the purchase.
LEXEN Front Window Precut Tint Kit
Here’s another high-quality, pre-cut window tint from Lexen, except this time it’s just for the two front side windows. This product is scratch-resistant and made of carbon-coated polyester, making it durable and long-lasting.
Like the other Lexen picks, you can choose from one of five shades, between 5% (darkest) and 50%. This is great for privacy and protecting your vehicle’s interior.
It’s reported to maintain color stability as well, and once you’ve tinted your windows with these, they’ll likely last you a good few years.
Manufactured from non-reflective film, there are detailed instructions for the application and videos are available on the manufacturer’s website to help you further in case any sticking points were to arise.
Manufacturers Specs and Feature List
- Pre-cut tint, requires no cutting.
- Carbon-coated polyester film.
- Particle technology film contains carbon pigments.
- Excellent heat rejection properties.
- Five shade options.
- Non-reflective with no metal.
- Blocks 99 percent UV-rays.
- Scratch resistant.
- Instructions and squeegee included.
What We Like
- Economical choice for those who only want to tint front side windows.
- Shade options will cater to most requirements.
- Ready to use.
- Lifetime color stability.
- Protection and privacy for the car’s driver and front seat passenger.
What We Don’t Like
- Kit not available for some older vehicles.
Summary
This is a great, high-quality, and budget-friendly option if you only want to tint the front side windows on your vehicle. If you only need two tinted windows, it should be a quick and easy DIY project.
What Are The Benefits of Having Window Tint?
- Overall Appearance: Not only does it mask smears visible from the outside, but it adds a look that compliments many vehicle trims and accents.
- Less Heat Inside the Vehicle: Depending on the type you get, up to 98% percent of the sun’s infrared rays can be reflected to reduce the heat buildup inside your car, which is ideal in the summer months
- Heat Retention: Just as heat can be trapped inside your car during the summer, heat can be retained inside during winter as well.
- Reducing Vehicle Running Costs: Heat reduction and heat retention means you won’t have to run the air conditioning or heater quite as much. This could improve gas mileage as well as eliminate having to turn either to “high”, reducing overall wear on the systems’ components.
- Privacy: If you don’t appreciate people looking inside your vehicle as they drive or walk past, tint can also obscure the contents of the inside of your car.
- Reducing Road Glare: Not all window tint reduces glare, but choosing the right kind will.
- Interior Protection: Window tint can protect your interior from fading, peeling, and heat damage by deflecting the sun’s rays.
- Personal Protection: Window tint can also protect you and your passengers by reducing or eliminating harmful UV rays.
- Glass Protection: Window tints can protect your car’s glass against cracking, scratching, and shattering.
What Are The Different Types Of Car Window Tint?
Car window tints come in many forms, and not all are created equal. Each does a separate job and each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Dyed
Dyed window tints are pretty self-explanatory. They get their dark color from dye that is placed between the adhesive layer and the protective layer of the film.
Dyed window film is a popular choice for those who are on a tight budget, as it is often the least expensive. The downside is that it has a tendency to fade over time and it doesn’t have the heat-shielding characteristics of other types.
Metallic or Metalized Window Tints
Metallic or metalized window tint is designed the same way as dyed ones, but instead of colored dye, tiny pieces of metal flake are used between layers.
This causes metallic tint to be reflective, which is perfect for keeping heat away from the inside of your car.
The metal flaking also provides added strength to the window, acting as a reinforcing agent.
Metal window tints are an especially great option if one of the main reasons you’re doing this is to prevent people snooping inside your car. However, bear in mind that metallic tint doesn’t comply with window tint laws in many places, doesn’t reduce road glare as well as other types, and can interfere with electronic devices inside your vehicle.
Carbon
Carbon tint takes away the reflective features of metallic ones while providing a great, dark look for your vehicle.
Unlike dyed tints, carbon ones won’t fade over time, and it does a better job than dye when it comes to reducing interior heat. Because it combines some of the best features of both dyed and metallic, carbon tint will generally cost more than both. Similar to dyed, it still doesn’t have the optimum heat rejection capability some other types have.
Crystalline or Crystallized
A high-quality tint whose calling card is its heat-rejection ability, crystallized tint is good for people who don’t want (or need) the traditional dark appearance that other types can give.
Crystallized tint allows more light to enter the vehicle than any other type. Because it allows more light, your vehicle’s windows won’t look as tinted when compared to other types. This could cause brightness and road glare to be more of an issue than traditional dark tint.
Crystallized auto window tinting film also costs a great deal more than other types because of its properties.
Ceramic Tint
Combining the best heat rejection, durability, and glare-resistance properties, ceramic window tints use the latest technology to accomplish everything with just one product.
Of course, being the best all-around in just about every category means ceramic tints are much more expensive. Ceramic is often used in hybrid window tints, however, and these aren’t quite so pricey.
Considerations When Looking for the Best Window Tint Film for Your Car
The following is a list of important things to consider when looking for the right product that suits your needs best.
What’s the Goal?
Everybody is going to have different needs and wants. You have to ask yourself what your personal goals are, and what compromises you would be willing to make in the process.
What Kind of Legal Limitations Are There?
You will need to comply with your state’s regulations on how dark your window tint can be, especially on your daily driver. Always check with your local DMV to see what specific laws you have to be aware of.
Are You Going to Be Installing It Yourself or Having a Shop Do It for You?
Window tinting isn’t the most complicated “modification” you can do, but it is something extra you’re doing to an expensive piece of equipment.
If you’re worried about messing up, at the very least, you can buy the material yourself and pay a trained expert to apply it.
How Long Will It Take to Do the Job?
Time is always a factor when you’re having work done to your car. If you’re busy, be prepared to drop your car off at the installer’s shop. Window tinting can be a tedious process. It can take several hours, especially if you have a larger vehicle, even for a professional.
If you don’t have the time to sit and wait, you will most likely need to make arrangements to pick your vehicle up the next day or at the end of the same day.
Privacy Glass Is Different
Privacy glass is often confused with window tint. Vehicles like vans and SUVs have “factory tint” on the rear passenger windows, but this is actually privacy glass. While car tint is a film that adheres to the windows of a car, privacy glass achieves its look from coloration of the glass itself.
Privacy glass also doesn’t achieve the same functional results as window tint. In most cases, privacy glass just shields the vehicle’s occupants from outside onlookers – nothing more.
Wrapping It Up
Just like sunglasses for your car, window tint can have both appearance and functional purposes.
With tint being one of the less expensive overall “modifications” you can perform on your vehicle, you can customize the look and functionality of your car while expressing yourself exactly the way you want, and one of the options listed above is sure to meet your expectations.
