Choosing a tonneau cover for your truck bed is a smart move for security, weather protection, and even potential fuel efficiency gains. Among the various types available, tri fold tonneau covers stand out for their ease of use, durability, and balance of features. Hard folding tri fold tonneau covers, in particular, offer a robust solution compared to soft covers while often being more affordable than retractable options.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of tri fold tonneau covers, highlighting the best options on the market. We’ve consulted with industry experts and rigorously reviewed and tested several covers to bring you our top recommendations.
Quick Recommendations:
- Best Overall: BAKFlip G2
- Best Budget Option: Gator EFX
These hard folding tonneau covers are designed to fit a wide range of trucks, from mid-size to heavy-duty models. Let’s explore what makes them, and other models, stand out as the Best Tri Fold Tonneau Cover choices for your needs.
Hard Tonneau Covers & Our Testing Process
An Expert Opinion on Tri Fold Covers
Benefits of Hard Folding Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Top Tri Fold Tonneau Cover Picks
FAQ About Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
Hard Tonneau Covers & Our Testing Process
To determine the best tri fold tonneau covers, our product review team focuses on key aspects that matter most to truck owners. These include:
- Ease of Installation: How straightforward is it to install the cover at home? Are special tools required? Clear instructions and simple designs score higher.
- Ease of Use: Once installed, how easy is it to operate daily? Smooth opening and closing mechanisms, secure latches, and user-friendly folding are crucial.
- Durability: How well-built and long-lasting is the cover? We assess material quality, construction, and consider customer reviews on long-term performance.
We put these criteria to the test using a variety of trucks, representing different bed sizes and vehicle types:
- 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 installing each tri fold tonneau cover, we evaluated its features and then used it over time to simulate real-world wear and tear. Our testing methodology provides a comprehensive understanding of each cover’s strengths and weaknesses.
For each category, we assign a star rating (out of 5.0) to clearly represent performance:
- 5.0 Stars: Exceptional performance, among the best in class.
- 4.0 Stars: Better than average, strong performance in the category.
- 3.0 Stars: Average or typical performance for a tri fold tonneau cover.
- 2.0 Stars: Below average performance, adequate but with noticeable drawbacks.
- 1.0 Star: Significantly below expectations, poor performance.
To ensure our reviews are helpful and accurate, we also rely on resources like the RealTruck YouTube channel for installation insights and customer reviews from sites like RealTruck and Amazon to understand real-world owner experiences.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
Automoblog’s team is dedicated to providing trustworthy and in-depth reviews of automotive products. We annually test and evaluate numerous products, utilizing our testing facilities in Detroit, Michigan, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Raleigh, North Carolina. Our process includes unboxing, detailed inspection, installation, and real-world testing on our vehicles. We aim to provide vehicle owners with the information needed to make informed purchase decisions.
An Expert Opinion on Tri Fold Covers
To gain further insights into choosing the best tri fold tonneau cover, we spoke with Chris King, Director of Marketing at RealTruck, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. King emphasizes three key factors truck owners should consider: cost, security, and use case.
Price Considerations for Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
The price range for hard folding tri fold tonneau covers typically falls between $600 and $1,600. This positions them as a mid-range option, less expensive than retractable covers but generally more costly than soft roll-up or soft tri fold options.
| Price Point | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Lower End | $600 |
| Mid-Range | $1,000 |
| Higher End | $1,600 |
For budgets under $500, soft tonneau covers may be the only available hard cover option. If budget is less of a concern, retractable tonneau covers offer premium features but can range from $1,000 to over $4,000.
The price difference within hard folding tri fold tonneau covers often comes down to materials and bed access functionality.
Material Differences
Most hard folding tonneau covers utilize a core of expanded foam sandwiched between panels. The inner panel is often aluminum. Lower to mid-priced covers typically use aluminum for the top panel as well.
Higher-end covers may feature a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) top panel. FRP offers enhanced dent resistance and durability against the elements.
“FRP is more dent-resistant than aluminum. It will be a lot more resistant to damage from tree branches or hail.” ~ Chris King, RealTruck Director of Marketing.
However, FRP may not be ideal for extreme heat environments compared to aluminum. Consider your local climate when choosing materials. For off-road trucks and demanding conditions, hard tonneau covers, regardless of material, are designed to hold up well.
Bed Access Flexibility
Tri fold designs offer superior bed access compared to one-piece hard covers. While one-piece covers lift easily with struts, they limit side access to the truck bed near the cab.
Tri fold covers provide varying degrees of access, including full bed access in many cases.
“Your entry price point hard folding covers will only stow in the two-thirds folded position… But outside of your entry-level covers, almost all of them fold all the way to the cab, so you have the flexibility for when you need to haul something larger.” ~ Chris King, RealTruck Director of Marketing.
While driving with a fully open tri fold cover is possible, it obstructs rear visibility and is not recommended for extended periods. Some tri fold covers, like the Extang Solid Fold Toolbox 2.0, are designed to be compatible with toolboxes, offering added utility. Unlike full bed toppers, tri fold covers allow for vertical use of bed space for taller items.
Security Advantages of Hard Folding Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
Security is a major benefit of hard tonneau covers over soft covers. Soft covers can be easily cut open, while hard covers offer a significant deterrent to theft.
“One of the biggest benefits of a hard folding tonneau cover is the security they offer… if your tailgate locks and the tonneau cover is closed, the cover is also locked in place with your tailgate.” ~ Chris King, RealTruck Director of Marketing.
For added security on older trucks without locking tailgates, aftermarket solutions like Pop & Lock are available. If security is a primary concern, investing in a hard folding tri fold tonneau cover is a worthwhile choice. If not, a less expensive soft cover might suffice.
Use Cases for Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
Consider how you use your truck and how often you might need to remove the cover. Soft covers are easily removable, ideal for temporary needs. Retractable covers roll away for full bed access, particularly useful for fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing. Hard folding covers offer good access but might not be ideal if you frequently tow large trailers.
“If you regularly travel with a camper or horse trailer, a hard folding tonneau cover might not be the best option… if you’re towing a trailer and it’s going to be hooked up for a while, I wouldn’t recommend blocking your rear window for a long period.” ~ Chris King, RealTruck Director of Marketing.
For conventional towing from the bumper, tri fold covers pose no issues.
Benefits of Hard Folding Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
According to Chris King, hard folding tonneau covers are a top choice for RealTruck customers due to their versatility and robust design.
“The covers are well engineered, well built, and fit 99 percent of people’s use cases.”
Key benefits include:
- Enhanced Security: Significantly more secure than soft covers, protecting cargo from theft.
- Long-Term Durability: Hard folding covers are built to last, potentially for the life of your truck.
- Weather Protection: Provides excellent protection from rain, snow, and other elements.
- Sleek Appearance: Offers a clean, low-profile look that enhances truck aesthetics.
- Cost-Effective Security: More affordable security compared to retractable covers.
Potential Downsides
While hard folding tri fold tonneau covers offer numerous advantages, there are a few potential downsides:
- Removal Time: Hard covers take longer to remove than soft covers if full bed access is needed regularly.
- Rear Window Obstruction: When fully open and folded against the cab, rear visibility is blocked.
- Towing Limitations: May not be ideal for fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing where constant rear visibility is needed.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best Tri Fold Tonneau Cover
When selecting the best tri fold tonneau cover, consider these factors:
- Material: Aluminum offers good balance; FRP provides superior dent resistance.
- Durability: Look for robust construction, weather-resistant seals, and strong hinges.
- Ease of Use: Simple folding mechanism, secure latches, and user-friendly operation.
- Bed Access: Consider whether you need full bed access or if 2/3 access is sufficient.
- Installation: Prioritize easy, no-drill installation if you plan to install it yourself.
- Warranty: A good warranty indicates manufacturer confidence in product quality.
- Customer Reviews: Research online reviews to gauge real-world owner satisfaction.
Top Tri Fold Tonneau Cover Picks
Based on our testing and expert input, we recommend the following as the best tri fold tonneau cover options:
1. Best Overall: BAKFlip G2
BAKFlip G2 Fast Facts:
- Cost: From $1,100
- Style: Folding
- Material: Aircraft-grade Aluminum
- Warranty: 3 Years
The BAKFlip G2 stands out as our top overall pick for the best tri fold tonneau cover. It’s constructed from durable, aircraft-grade aluminum with a powder-coated finish for UV and corrosion resistance. EPDM rubber seals effectively prevent water intrusion. The G2 offers easy operation and full bed access when needed.
Performance Ratings:
| Category | Score (out of 5.0) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Installation | 4.0 |
| Ease of Use | 4.0 |
| Durability | 4.0 |
| Overall Rating | 4.0 |
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Strong, durable materials
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Prop-up feature for large cargo
Cons:
- Some mixed reviews regarding complete water resistance
Our Experience:
The BAKFlip G2 consistently performed above average in our tests. Installation is quick, and the cover sits flush with the truck bed. We appreciated its multiple opening positions, including full bed access. While installation is slightly more involved for trucks without square bed rails, the latches are consistently smooth and responsive.
Customer Feedback:
The BAKFlip G2 has a strong RealTruck review score of 4.5/5.0 from over 1,800 reviews. Owners praise its easy installation, usability, full bed access, and appearance. Water resistance reviews are mixed, with some reporting minor leaks, which is common even with high-quality covers, especially in heavy rain. Proper installation and drainage tubes (included) help mitigate water intrusion.
Best Overall: BAKFlip G2
- Aircraft-grade aluminum, drainage tubes
- Full bed access
- Unobstructed 3rd brake light visibility
2. Best Budget Option: Gator EFX
Gator EFX Fast Facts:
- Cost: From $600
- Style: Folding
- Material: Aluminum
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
The Gator EFX is our top budget pick for a tri fold tonneau cover, offering excellent value. It features aircraft-grade aluminum construction, supporting up to 300 lbs, and a scratch- and UV-resistant polymer coating for durability. Installation is straightforward.
Performance Ratings:
| Category | Score (out of 5.0) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Installation | 4.0 |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 |
| Durability | 4.0 |
| Overall Rating | 3.8 |
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Low-profile design
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Some customer reviews mention potential tailgate leaks
Our Experience:
While the included instructions could be clearer, the Gator EFX installation is generally simple. Slam latch alignment isn’t perfect, and some side-to-side movement is noticeable, requiring slight adjustments for proper locking. The thick EPDM rubber seals, while effective for water resistance, may prevent a completely flush fit in some areas. Overall, for its price, the EFX offers impressive performance.
Customer Feedback:
The Gator EFX boasts a 4.5/5.0 RealTruck review score from over 3,400 reviews. Owners appreciate its easy installation, sleek look, and value. Some note potential water leakage and fit issues with truck bed liners, requiring liner trimming for optimal fit.
Best Budget Option: Gator EFX
- 2/3 bed access
- EPDM seals and drain tubes
- Sharp black powder coat finish
3. Other Top Tri Fold Tonneau Covers to Consider:
While we haven’t yet tested these models, they are highly regarded and worth considering:
- BAKFlip MX4: Known for durability, security, and sleek aesthetics. Features a 5-year warranty, heavy-duty aluminum build, and full bed access. Customer reviews highlight easy installation and a good fit.
BAKFlip MX4
- Durable, secure, low-profile
- Drain tubes included
- Cab protection bumpers
- Extang Solid Fold ALX: An upgraded version of the Solid Fold 2.0 with one-handed operation and a unique rotary latch. Features impact and UV-resistant EnduraShield TPO panels, an aluminum frame, and a 600 lbs load capacity. Easy, no-tool installation and 2/3 bed access with quick removal for full access.
Extang Solid Fold ALX
- EnduraShield panels for weather protection
- Aircraft-grade aluminum frame
- Quick, tool-free removal
Best Tri Fold Tonneau Covers: Bottom Line
The best tri fold tonneau cover should offer durability, ease of use, security, and good weather protection. Our top recommendations are:
- Best Overall: BAKFlip G2
- Best Budget: Gator EFX
Other strong contenders include:
- BAKFlip MX4
- Extang Solid Fold ALX
Top Hard Tonneau Covers for Your Truck
These tri fold tonneau covers are excellent choices for a variety of trucks, offering security and convenience.
Best Overall
BAKFlip G2
- Aircraft-grade aluminum, drainage
Best Budget Option
Gator EFX
- Weather-resistant, powder coat finish
FAQ About Tri Fold Tonneau Covers
Are hard tonneau covers worth it?
If you value security and weather protection for your truck bed, a hard tonneau cover, especially a tri fold, is a worthwhile investment. They offer greater security and durability than soft covers.
Which is better, tri-fold or quad-fold tonneau covers?
The primary difference is aesthetics. Both tri fold and quad-fold covers offer similar functionality in terms of opening and security. The best choice often comes down to personal preference in appearance.
Which is better, soft or hard folding tonneau covers?
Hard folding tonneau covers provide superior security and durability compared to soft folding covers. Soft covers are typically less expensive and primarily offer rain protection, but are easily compromised for theft.
Do hard tonneau covers save gas?
Studies suggest that tonneau covers can improve fuel economy by reducing aerodynamic drag and lift.
Do hard tonneau covers keep water out?
High-quality hard tonneau covers are designed to be water-resistant and keep most water out of the truck bed. Water protection levels vary by model and depend on the quality of weather stripping and seals.
