Markus Andrews

It’s a fantastic era to be a car nut these days. The car industry is filled to the brim with all sorts of different options when it comes to keeping your car looking spiffy, like it just came off of the showroom floor.
One great product that can help to accomplish this goal is a quality car paint sealant. Car paint sealant is, quite simply, a product that keeps UV rays and other potential hazards from marring paint jobs over time. Additionally, they can also help keep things like chipping and scratching from occurring on your paint job.
This article will be covering the best car paint sealants that the market has to offer today. First off, we are going to go over the absolute minimum that you need to know before purchasing one of these products in our short guide. Right after that, we’re going to leap straight into the product reviews.
Finally, to round off the article, we’ll provide you with some additional info on car paint sealant, including why it’s so beneficial for automobile care.

Choosing the Perfect Car Paint Sealant
Here are a couple of quick and easy points of consideration to make before purchasing a high-quality car paint sealant. If you desire more information, please be sure to take a look at our extended guide near the end of the product reviews for a closer look at these types of products.
Protection
There are plenty of things in the natural world that are going to be harsh on your paint job over some time. Prioritizing the kind of car paint sealant you buy for the specific area of the world you live in is going to be a key factor in the buying process.
If you live in an area where certain types of weather are a common occurrence, then it’s best to buy a car sealant that specializes in protecting your vehicle from that particular type of weather.
The good news is that many car paint sealants are multifaceted and can deal with different environmental problems at the same time, which keeps you from having to agonize over your decision too much.
Ease of Use
You could potentially purchase the Holy Grail of car sealants, but have no clue on how best to apply it to your vehicle. The good news is that slathering on car paint sealant isn’t rocket science and will usually be a pretty quick process.
Usually, the only external tool you are going to need is a basic shop rag or microfiber towel, or if you’re savvy, an electric polishing tool. We realize that not everyone has access to these sorts of higher-end tools, however. The good news is there are aerosol car sealant options on the market as well. They probably the easiest way to go when it comes to the application process as you have to do is just spray on a layer of coating all over your vehicle and use a clean towel to wipe it evenly.
Appearance
Not all car paint sealants are going to have your vehicle looking the same when you are finished using them. Some produce a high-intensity gloss, while others just enhance your car’s natural color scheme without adding a wet-looking effect. Some car paint sealants are even color-specific and are primarily based on the predominant color of your vehicle.
Value
Value is important for pretty much anything we purchase with our hard-earned dollars nowadays. With car paint sealant, be sure to check how much a bottle holds compared to its price point, and base how much you need to purchase on how large your vehicle is. If you’ve got a huge truck or SUV, you’re going to have to buy a lot more individual products compared to if you were just treating a smaller car.
With all of that in mind, let’s get started!

Top 9 Best Car Paint Sealants 2021
1. Best Overall Sealant: CarGuys Liquid Wax Polymer Paint Sealant

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Why we like it: This product comes with everything you need to start applying car paint sealant to your precious vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant/wax
CarGuys Liquid Wax has an ace in its hole that makes it an attractive buy for reasons other than its excellent all-around performance. It is designed with an intriguing polymer additive that allows it to last longer than a lot of car paint sealant brands, especially at its low price point! This sealant, amazingly enough, only needs to be used once or twice a year (depending on how much you use and abuse your vehicle).
Not only are the unique protective aspects of this product a strong aspect, but it’s no slouch in the aesthetics department either. As you may have guessed from the title of the product, this sealant leaves an almost wax-like sheen to an applied vehicle. This isn’t a surprise considering it’s a hybrid wax/sealant product, which we think adds to the appeal. It also comes with a free microfiber towel!
Verdict
Other than it being a bit difficult to remove from some rubber and plastic trims (for which the Wolfgang Concours Series WG-5500 Deep Gloss Sealant would be a better choice), it’s hard to find anything bad to say about this car paint sealant. It hits a lot of the sweet spots for what we are looking for in a top product.
It’s utterly affordable, is made up of a solid formula, and even comes with something a little extra in the form of a free microfiber towel. CarGuys even adds a 100% money-back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied!

Pros
Great price
Comes in 8 or 16-ounce kits
Leaves a wet, lustrous finish
Comes with a microfiber towel
Full refund if not satisfied

Cons
Not to be used on rubber or plastic

2. Best Premium Sealant: Chemical Guys JetSeal Paint Sealant

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Why we like it: This popular product will give your car a gorgeous metallic sheen with long-lasting environmental protection at an affordable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant/protectant
This is our top product on this list simply because it was designed for the best. JetSeal was made specifically with the aerospace industry in mind to make sure air vehicles got maximum paint protection in the harshest of elevations and weather conditions. If you consider the various kinds of extreme weather an airplane might deal with per day along with serious UV rays constantly attacking its body, adequate protection is a must.
The great properties of this product don’t just end there, however. The JetSeal also creates a hydrophobic layer over your car’s paint job, which not only disperses water with ease but can improve your car’s overall shine as well.
Drying time is a fast one, around 20 minutes, which is pretty incredible. Additionally, the JetSeal also has maximum protective durability. One solid coat of this sealant will last you around an entire year.
Verdict
Probably the biggest downside to this product is its price tag. However, with that being said, you’re investing in a solid product that is air-tested by the aerospace industry and also will last you a year per application. You simply cannot beat that, especially for the cost.

Pros
Lustrous mirror finish
Long-lasting at over 12 months of protection
The hydrophobic layer sloughs off water
Has anti-corrosion protective properties

Cons
Quite pricey for most buyers

3. Best Budget Sealant: Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Synthetic Sealant

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Why we like it: This car paint sealant’s 64-ounce content will keep your vehicle in good hands for many years to come.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant
Meguiar’s is another well-known name brand in the automobile landscape, especially when it comes to car paint sealant. They make quality products at extremely affordable price points, and this offering is no exception to that rule.
Coming at a whopping 64 ounces, this is massive value, especially if you expect to treat multiple vehicles in a year’s time. However, if you just focus on one personal vehicle, the amount this product provides could easily last years. However, if you’re not expecting to need that much, Meguiar’s also offers a smaller (and cheaper) 16-ounce version.
Impressive volume doesn’t always necessarily mean quality, however, we are happy to report that is not the case with this product. Not only does it provide a base level of protection from and disperses things like dirt and water easily, but it also has wonderful scratch and abrasion filling properties as well. So not only will your car be protected from the elements, but it will look like it has a new lease on life as well!
Verdict
One of the downsides we found was that the sealant could, in unnecessary larger amounts, leave streaks on darker vehicles. This isn’t too big of a deal, it just requires extra attention to detail and utilizing careful amounts of the product—though you’ll need to spend a bit more on something like the CarGuys wax if this is something you want to avoid. Overall, this is the best value on this list and will keep your car well protected for years upon years if utilized properly.

Pros
Comes in 16 or 64 fluid ounces
A hybrid mix of natural and synthetic additives
Deep, smokey finish
Can remove abrasions

Cons
Streaks on darker automobiles

4. Easiest Sealant to Apply: Chemical Guys Hybrid Optical Select High Gloss Spray Sealant

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for speedy application of car paint sealant, this product can’t be beaten.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Spray sealant/detailer
The Chemical Guys are a well-known brand in the car world, and they provide quality products. So much so that we included another product of theirs earlier in this list. This product is no exception to their record of quality either.
The application of this product is obscenely simple. Just spray it on, and then wipe it off accordingly. You’re going to have a top shine in mere minutes as the formula binds with your vehicle’s paint job quickly due to its patented nano-spec technology integrated within its formula.
If you’re looking for a fast application kind of product and high-quality car paint protection, then this is a solid product for you. On top of that, it’s multifaceted in that it can work on nearly any surface you can conceivably think of, so it has versatility beyond just the automobile world.
Verdict
The only real issue we found with this Chemical Guys product is that it can potentially leave streaks, especially on darker vehicles—try the other Chemical Guys product if you’re looking to avoid that, although it won’t be as affordable as easy to use. As we mentioned above, though, if you’re looking for fast application and quality protection, you can’t go wrong with this fantastic offering from the Chemical Guys.

Pros
Inexpensive
Comes in one gallon, 16 and 64oz options for maximum versatility for your needs
Fast to apply to one’s vehicle
Hybrid polymer formula gives unparalleled shine and UV protection to any surface

Cons
Can potentially streak surfaces

5. Most Attractive Sealant: Wolfgang Concours Series WG-5500 Deep Gloss Sealant

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Why we like it: If you care about looks first and foremost, this product by Wolfgang will give you the shine you’re looking for.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant
This car paint sealant is made specifically to produce an incredible sheen on your vehicle that isn’t merely just glossy, but deep and vibrant in a way that most car sealants aren’t capable of.
Not only does it create an almost otherworldly sheen for your car, but it also obscures things like scratches and swirls on your paint job as well, giving the car a fresh and new “off the lot” kind of look.
The Wolfgang sealant also provides a typical level of protection against UV rays and other sorts of abrasive environmental factors. So you can rest easy knowing your car is not only protected but looks great at the same time.
Verdict
While this product is certainly impressive in the aesthetics it delivers, the shine will, unfortunately, wear off after just a few months. This means consistent maintenance with the product is crucial if you want to keep those incredible looks persistent for your vehicle
Also, if you live in a fairly humid area, this product might be a pain to use, as it requires a moisture-free environment to bond with your vehicle’s paint properly. If you happen to live in one of these areas, definitely don’t let it cure outside!
To sum up, if you don’t mind some fairly routine work on your end and are looking for quality aesthetics for your ride, this product by Wolfgang is the way to go. It’s not durable, though, so if you prefer longevity over aesthetics you might want to buy something durable and long-lasting like the Trinova Paint Sealant.

Pros
Safe to use near rubber and plastic
Non-abrasive
Creates a beautiful gloss
One doesn’t need a lot of formula for complete coverage

Cons
The sheen goes away after just a few months

6. Best Waterproof Sealant: P&S Detailing Products Bead Maker Paint Protectant

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Why we like it: Whether you need a lot of car paint sealant, or just a little, P&S allows you to choose just the right amount of this amazingly hydrophobic product.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Spray waterproof sealant/protectant
Who doesn’t like choices, right? Sometimes we need a little more of a particular product than what is offered in a package, other times we need way less than is offered in the first place! When it comes to the car paint sealant industry, P&S gives us a variety of choices so that we can acquire the exact amount of sealant we need for our vehicle’s needs.
It also happens to be a fantastic, high-quality product to boot. This is an extremely hydrophobic car sealant formula, and it can dispel dirt and water like you wouldn’t believe. On top of that, once applied to the paint’s surface, the polymer technology that comes in this formula immediately merges with the paint to provide long-lasting protection that will repel water for months and months.
Verdict
This is a solid, and fast to apply product that, once applied, is going to neutralize dirt and water on your car, and keep it that way. The only downsides we could find were that the product was quite hard to strip if we wanted to re-apply another car paint sealant down the road. Additionally, the gloss isn’t as eye-popping as some of the other offerings on this list. JetSeal Paint Sealant solves both problems, but it’s not as convenient, waterproof, or affordable as a tradeoff for its superior performance elsewhere.

Pros
Comes in a variety of different sizes
Extremely hydrophobic
Can be put on all surfaces
Spreads easily during the application process

Cons
Hard to strip from your vehicle for a reapplication process
Not as vibrant as far as gloss goes

7. Best Sealant and Ceramic Coat: Epic Elements Protect Superior Ceramic Coating

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Why we like it: This unique three-in-one product can be used on any surface you can think of.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant/ceramic coating
This is an interesting product in that it has a three in one formula. It is a mix of a hydrophobic car wash formula (sans water), wax spray, and a ceramic coating component.
The thing that pops with the Epic Elements sealant is just how lustrous and shiny it can make your vehicle. We found that applying this on a vehicle could easily have it looking like a showroom car in a matter of minutes.
Verdict
The biggest problem with this formula is not nearly enough for some of the larger vehicles out there, so be aware of this before purchase, especially if you have a huge rig that needs treating! But as inexpensive as this product is, this really isn’t too big of an issue.
Additionally, this isn’t purely a car paint sealant, but a mix of many different sorts of items, so if you’re looking for maximum protection, definitely look elsewhere—any other sealant on our list will suit that purpose better if that’s all you’re looking for.

Pros
Inexpensive
Three in one formula
Can be used on any surface

Cons
One bottle will not cover an entire vehicle
Not as protective as some of the other products on this list

8. Most Durable Sealant: Trinova Paint Sealant

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Why we like it: This product will keep your vehicle protected from all sorts of particles accumulated outdoors.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Sealant
This is a decent generalized car paint sealant that will create a luxurious gloss in the process. Where this product shines, however, is its strong hydrophobic properties. People that live in really harsh landscapes with a lot of rain or snow would benefit tremendously from this sealant. We think the best part about this product is it only takes a mere 30 minutes for it to bond with the surface of your vehicle’s paint, so there’s no need to wait around for hours in order to dry this sealant.
Verdict
Unfortunately, this car paint sealant is extremely hard to strip from one’s vehicle and is also known to cause streaking on darker colored vehicles. However, it’s inexpensive, has a good gloss, and can give you up to 12 months of protection from the elements.

Pros
Inexpensive
Protects against dirt and the elements
Hydrophobic
Embeds with a vehicle’s paint in under 30 minutes.

Cons
Hard to strip/remove
Can create streaks easily

9. Best Acrylic Sealant: Klasse High Gloss Paint Sealant

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Why we like it: This hardy acrylic sealant will keep your car protected from practically everything the world can throw at it.
Editor’s Rating:

Type: Acrylic sealant
This extremely durable product is an acrylic car paint sealant that will protect against almost everything, even things like dead bugs! And at 33 ounces per container, you’ll be hard-pressed to run out of this product anytime soon, making it perfect for those looking for the best bang for their buck. This is an awesome deal considering that one full application of this product will give your vehicle protection for around one year.
This sealant from Klasse also can be used for more than just automobiles, as it will bind to lots of different kinds of surfaces. Everything from metal to glass and even things like floor tiles!
Verdict
The biggest issue with this problem is that it’s tough to apply without potentially making a few mistakes. It sets fast and becomes extremely hard, so you have to work quickly and accurately if you want an even spread on your vehicle. This is not a sealant for people new to the market.

Pros
Tough acrylic sealant
Can go on many different kinds of surfaces
One bottle can last potentially for years

Cons
Extremely difficult to apply

Guide to Buying the Best Car Paint Sealants
Here are some more in-depth points that expand a bit more on what we covered in our brief buyr’s guide earlier in the article.
If you are still hazy on some aspects of the product, we think this section will help inform your purchase tremendously and show you some great reasons on why they are such a valuable product in the first place.
Why Car Paint Sealants Are Worth It
Here are a few positive benefits of purchasing a car paint sealant that you might not know offhand.
Protecting Your Paint Job
Car paint sealants are generally designed to protect your vehicle’s paint finish. Every time you leave your garage, your car is exposed to all sorts of environmental factors that can affect its paint job over a period of time. This is doubly true for car owners that don’t even have a garage in the first place!
Car paint sealants merge with your vehicle’s paint to protect from all sorts of elemental factors, such as dirt, dust, the effects of weather, and more. It provides a shield for all of those things, keeping the layer of paint underneath it safe and sound. This will end up saving you money in the long run, as professional paint restoration services generally are not cheap.
When it comes to simple protection, our top overall pick should meet just about anyone’s needs.
Enhancing Your Car’s Look
Let’s face it, we don’t want to drive an ugly looking vehicle, even if we don’t usually care about keeping up appearances in our neck of the woods. There’s just something satisfying about driving around in a vehicle that looks like a work of art.
Car paint sealants, depending on the brand, can help to give your vehicle a glossy/wet sort of look, or enhance your car’s natural paint job without being too blinding in the sunlight. This sort of visual enhancement will be noticeable to you as well as others, and for some folks that in itself is worth the price of admission.
If it’s aesthetics you have in mind, you can’t beat the Wolfgang WG-5500.
Increasing Your Vehicle’s Resale Value
Keeping up with proper maintenance of one’s vehicle is a good practice to have, especially if you’re one of those types that don’t like to drive a vehicle into the ground and have future resale in mind.
Automobile paint can strip and deteriorate over time if not properly managed, especially if your vehicle is left completely exposed in the elements over long periods. The great thing about car paint sealant is, with just a few applications several times a year, this will pretty much never be an issue with your vehicle.
So, if you’re someone that trades or re-sells a vehicle every couple of years and are concerned about a car’s value, in the long run, you really can’t beat purchasing high-end car paint sealant to protect your paint job. The better your car runs (and looks) ultimately paves the way for better dollar value in the future.
[Image: “https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/water-droplets-on-surface-yellow-car-1806848521” alt text: water droplets on surface of car paint]
Applying Car Paint Sealant: A How-To Guide
If you’re concerned about applying these sorts of products on your vehicle, don’t be. It isn’t difficult to put a car paint sealant on your vehicle in the least, and it doesn’t require any specialized tools to accomplish. Here’s how to do it in a few simple, painless steps.
1. Completely Clean Your Car’s Exterior
It’s best to do a full clean of your car before applying any sort of car paint sealant. It’s also a good idea to strip away older sealants that might already be on your car in the first place. Once this is finished, allow time for your vehicle to dry completely before going to the next step.
2. Put On the Sealant
As mentioned earlier in this article, you can put on a car paint sealant via a simple shop rag or with a polishing machine. Both of these methods have their differences.
Applying the sealant by hand is going to be better for fine detailing, but is ultimately going to take you much longer and there may be consistency issues depending on how keen your eye is. However, using a machine polisher is going to give you a more even layer of coating with less product, but at a larger price point than a simple shop rag. For a more in-depth look at this please consult our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
3. Let the Sealant Dry
A big thing to remember here is to completely let the sealant dry before wiping the vehicle down, otherwise, you’re going to have a mess on your hands. Additionally, the sealant won’t merge very well with your car’s paint, effectively ruining the entire process. Once the sealant is completely dry, take a smooth microfiber towel and wipe the entirety of the area you’re treating.
4. Let it Cure
The curing process is needed for the sealant to harden up and be an effective shield against the elements. The time this takes depends on the product you used, but a conservative estimate is generally considered to be half a day. It’s good practice to keep your vehicle in a garage or some kind of structure with a decent overhang for this process to have its maximum impact.
For a more visual guide on how best to apply a car paint sealant to your vehicle, please take a look at this short video from Autogeek.
FAQ
Is car paint sealant much different from a car wax?
Car paint sealant is essentially the next step up from just any old car wax you can purchase at an automotive store. Car wax only increases the visual quality of your vehicle’s paint job, but it does absolutely nothing to protect it from the elements and other potential paint hazards from the road. Additionally, you have to constantly apply it to keep the luxurious shine continual.
Car paint sealant not only protects your car from hostile particles and the negative effects of weather, but it also doesn’t have to be applied nearly as much as car wax does per year. It’s true, car wax is cheaper, but we think that car paint sealant is the better option as far as longevity goes.
With that being said, if it is wax you need, we’ve got a list of the best car waxes available for you to check out as well.
How many times a year should I apply a car paint sealant to my vehicle?
This is a fairly open-ended question, and it really depends on the brand of product you are using and how long it lasts on the car itself. Some brands last for over a year once applied, some are best used several times a year. It’s good to keep a memo of when you apply a car paint sealant and base your next application session around that and what the manufacturer stipulates.
Should I apply sealant by hand or invest in a polishing tool?
Application via towel/rag allows you to more fine-tune certain details on your vehicle. It allows you to get into various nooks and crannies for a more complete polished look. However, one of the downsides of this method boils down to the adage “to err is human”.
Elbow grease isn’t as consistent in application compared to what a machine polisher can do. Additionally, you might end up using more product that is needed, wasting time and money.
Machine polishing tools are great and will save you time, especially on more massive vehicles like trucks and SUVs. You will generally need less sealant in the long run and you will have more consistency in the resultant layer. The only real downside to this method is the cost of the polisher itself!
Are there any negatives to using a car paint sealant?
Some individuals consider car paint sealant to be inferior in terms of aesthetics compared to a high-quality wax product, such as carnauba. The truth of the matter is, most individuals uneducated in these sorts of niche automotive coloration/gloss differences are not going to notice a tremendous divide in quality between a car paint sealant and a car wax.
Does using a sealant make cleaning my car easier?
One of the interesting things we found about the product is that applying it makes cleaning your car easier as well!
Why is that? Well, the sealant is a barrier and keeps things from digging in deep to a paint’s surface. This means that washing off particles (such as dirt) is far easier, and they will just slide off with a quick wash.
Something else to note regarding the car washing process is that the sealant also sloughs off any additional water quickly as well, which means a faster drying time overall.
Final Thoughts
If you didn’t see a product that suited your particular needs, or if you’re still a bit confused about just what it is your need in the first place, please consider looking at our short guide first to get a general idea of what one needs. Next, go over our in-depth extended guide to hone in on the ins and outs of the product itself.
There are a lot of different options on the market, and each one is going to vary according to your needs. No one wants to drive around in a subpar looking automobile, and because of this, we tend to think keeping your vehicle’s paint job looking as good as the day you took it off the lot is a great thing to strive for. More

Although we adore cruising around America in our RVs, there’s no denying the lifestyle comes with its fair share of challenges. Life on the road means a multitude of menial tasks: finding a spot to pull up for the night, filling the water tank, emptying the toilet, and keeping the kids entertained on those insanely long interstate trips.
But there’s one daily challenge to RV life that makes everything else look easy, especially for the newcomer who feels a tad nervous behind the wheel: backing up a big rig.
While reversing a normal-sized car is easy, the task becomes significantly more stressful when you’re operating a long vehicle like an RV. And should your mobile home of choice span 20 feet or more—as larger RVs and trailers do—then reversing can become downright dangerous.
Unless that is, you enlist the help of an RV backup camera to guide the way.
Also known as RV reversing cameras, these nifty little units make parking easier, safer, and less stressful, thus improving day to day life on the road.
And to help you pick out the perfect option for you, we’ve put together an in-depth RV Backup Camera Buyer’s Guide and reviewed the top 10 models on the market.

What To Consider When Buying an RV Backup Camera
Before we get stuck into our reviews, you must first wrap your head around the top features to consider. Without a solid understanding of the different functions and options available, you won’t have the expertise to purchase the perfect model for your needs.
Keep the following seven factors in mind when shopping for a reverse camera to use on your RV.
Wired or Wireless
The first thing you need to consider is whether you want to go wired or wireless. Wired systems perform better and aren’t prone to signal interference. However, the installation process is complex, which may mean enlisting professional help for a significant extra expense. Wireless systems are easy enough for the layman to install but have limited range and spotty reception.
Display Size and Resolution
Most RV backup cameras come with an LCD screen so you can monitor what lies directly behind you. The higher the screen size and resolution, the better the image will be, although it’ll add more to the price. At a minimum, aim for a 5-inch display with at least 600 horizontal pixels. Anything less than that is just too hard to see, especially in the heat of the moment as you’re backing up your rig.
Field of View
Also known as the viewing angle, field of view refers to how much you can see behind your vehicle. We measure the field of view in degrees, and the higher the number, the more you can see. Smaller vehicles reversed into a spacious parking spot might only require a field of view of 90 degrees or so. Big rigs with large blind spots, however, would benefit from a field of view of 120 degrees or more.
Weather Resistance
RV backup cameras are built to withstand the rigors of Mother Nature. But the key consideration is: to what degree? RV reverse cameras typically come with either an IPX6 or IPX7 weather-resistant rating, both of which provide adequate protection in adverse conditions.
Grid Lines
Modern reverse cameras will display gridlines on the screen, which gives the driver a precise picture of what lies in their path. This nifty feature not only lets you see what’s behind you, it’ll help you master your reverse parking as well. Gridlines are either on permanently or turned on via a button on the display unit.
Night Vision
Although a seasoned RVer aims to hit the campsite before sundown, there will occasionally be times you need to back your rig up in the dark. Rather than relying on your reversing lights, most modern backup cameras have infrared LED lights to make the process a whole lot easier. And the more LEDs, the better you’ll be able to see in the dark.
Budget
We’ve all got different budgets to work with, so it’s crucial you find the best possible system that falls within your price range. Be sure to factor in the installation cost if you opt for a wired system, which could work out more expensive than the camera kit itself. And if you’re tempted to opt for the cheapest device possible, be aware that you’ll have to suffer through interference issues and poor screen resolution, which could cause an accident.
With those key factors in mind, let’s look at some of the top backup cameras available for your RV.

Top 10 Best RV Backup Cameras 2020
1. Best Overall Camera: Yakry Backup Camera

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Why we like it: Yakry has got all the essential features in one nifty unit that retails at a reasonable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wired
Display: 7-inch screen / 1024×768 pixels
Field of View: 150 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP68
Camera mounting: Back end
Night Vision: 18 Infrared lights
If you’re looking for a well-priced reversing camera crammed full of cool features, then this tidy unit from Yakry is well worth a look.
Coming in at well under a hundred bucks a pop, this backup camera is several times cheaper than some of the premium options on our list. But that doesn’t mean you’ll have to compromise on functionality, as the wired device has got all the essentials: 18 LED lights, infrared technology, and IP68 waterproofing—to name a few.
The stats on this hardwired unit are pretty impressive, too. With a generous 150 degree viewing angle on the camera and 1024×768 pixels on the 7-inch screen, you won’t have any trouble seeing the finer details. We quite like the functionality here as you can toggle guidelines on or off and switch the camera between reverse only or always on.
If you fancy adding on a second camera, rest assured the unit is designed to run two in unison, and the display has the option of running in split-screen.
Setting the system up is relatively easy for a hardwired device, not least because the manufacturer includes all the necessary cables and brackets in the box. If you’re going to attempt a DIY install, check out this YouTube video for detailed instructions.

Pros
High resolution
Large screen size
Reasonable price
Good functionality
IR with 18 LEDs

Cons
No second camera included

2. Best Budget Camera: LeeKooLuu LK3 HD

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Why we like it: This ultra-simplistic reverse camera covers the basics for an unbeatable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wired
Display: 4.3-inch LCD / 1080p
Field of View: 149 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP 69
Camera Mounting: License plate
Night Vision: 6 LEDs
With all the pricey add-ons you’ve already bought for your RV—think solar, batteries, signal boosters, TV antennas, and so on—chances are your bank account is starting to look a little slim. So when it comes time to fork out for yet another fancy widget, we would understand if you felt a little reluctant to get the best money can buy.
The good news is you don’t have to because low-end RV backup cameras can work surprisingly well. This uber-cheap option from LeeKooLuu is the most inexpensive system on our list, yet the picture clarity is remarkably good thanks to its outstanding 1080p display. Granted, at 4.3 inches, the screen is substantially smaller than most. But if you’ve got good eyesight, there’s no reason to let that turn you off.
Another neat bonus is the unit comes with 6 LED lights for extra illumination at night, plus a generous 149-degree field of view—not bad for a budget system.
The wired device taps into your reverse lights, meaning it’ll automatically turn on as you start backing out. It is possible to keep the unit running while driving as well—simply plug the 12V charger into the cigarette lighter outlet, and you’re good to go.
Note that this is a license plate mount, so you’ll need to install it down low and won’t achieve the ideal angle. And while the product works wonderfully on Class B RVs and vans, it’s far from ideal for bigger RVs, including trailers.

Pros
Super cheap
1080p screen
149-degree field of view
LED lights for illumination

Cons
Must install in the license plate
Not good for big RVs

3. Best Premium Camera: Furrion Vision S Sharkfin Camera

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Why we like it: The Vision S from Furrion is the most feature-rich backup camera for RVs that money can buy.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wireless
Display: 5-inch screen / 720 x 480
Field of View: 120 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP65
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: Infrared
RVers on the hunt for the best possible wireless system on the market can’t go wrong with the Vision S, a high-performance wireless powerhouse that rivals its hardwired counterparts.
While most wireless systems suffer significantly from poor signal quality due to slow transfer speed, the Vision S transmits data at a lightning-fast rate. Specifically, the top-of-the-range Vision S transmitter and receiver work at a whopping 2.4GHz—we’d hazard a guess the S here stands for speed.
Furthermore, the unit comes with an in-built digital locking feature that allows the transmitter and receiver to communicate exclusively with one other. In a nutshell, that means no more interference from random Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other types of wireless tech.
Another major downside with other wireless cameras is the limited range, which means they don’t perform well on big rigs and travel trailers. The Vision S, on the other hand, sports an impressive 50-foot range at high speed or almost 500 feet while parked in an open field, which is more than enough for any kind of RV.
Aside from its optimized transfer speed and reliability, one cool feature we love about this product is the microphone and motion detection device that comes with the camera. Should a vehicle tailgate too close behind you, the camera will automatically engage so you can see exactly what’s going on.
If needed, you can add up to two more cameras and display them simultaneously on the 5-inch screen. It does feel a wee bit crowded with three cameras on the stock-standard screen, though, so if you’re adding new cameras, we recommend upgrading to the 7-inch model.
We won’t deny the fact this product costs a pretty penny. But for the driver of a long RV, the convenience and cost savings of not having to install a wired system could make the investment worthwhile.

Pros
High 2.4GHz transfer speed
Digital lock eliminates interference
50-foot wireless range for long RVs
Microphone with automatic sound activation
Option to add on two extras cameras

Cons
Extremely expensive

4. Best for Small Rigs: Rohent HD 960P

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Why we like it: This high-performance backup camera gets the job done for RVs under 45 feet.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wireless
Display: 960p
Field of View: 150 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP69K
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night vision: 12 LEDs
Rohent offers an excellent all-round option with the HD 960P, a superb wireless system that doesn’t suffer too badly from interference or signal loss.
Like other wireless backup cameras, this option is exceptionally easy to install—simply drill in the camera, hook up the antenna to the power supply, and let the unit work its magic.
One thing we love about this unit is the resolution, which runs at a crystal clear 960p at high definition and outperforms other wireless options at this price range. You’ll also get 12 LEDs on the infrared light to ensure you can see clearly what lies behind you in less than ideal conditions.
Gridlines come standard, and this latest version gives you the flexibility to turn them on and off as you please. And to help fine-tune the gridlines to perfectly suit the size of your RV, there’s an option to adjust their width and length—we wish more devices had this feature because the in-default gridlines on many other cameras often aren’t quite right.
You can include another camera on the license plate if you wish, and as this is the 7-inch version, you’ll have ample screen real estate for simultaneous monitoring.
If you’ve got a big rig or extended trailer, be aware that this model isn’t suitable for RVs over 45 feet.

Pros
High-performance wireless camera
Reasonably priced
12 LED lights on the infrared camera
Adjustable parking lines
Option to add another camera

Cons
Not suitable for RVs over 45 feet

5. Best for Situational Awareness: eRapta Backup Camera 2.0

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Why we like it: The eRapta 2.0 works with a whopping four cameras at once so you can see every little detail.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wired
Display: 7-inch screen
Field of View: 360 degrees
Camera Mounting: Every side of the RV
Night Vision: 18 infrared lights
Why have just one camera on your RV when you can have four?
The eRapta Backup Camera 2.0 allows you to install four high-quality wired cameras on every side of your RV, effectively affording you a 360-degree view of everything around you. The unique setup is ideal for RVers who want maximum situational awareness while on the road by eliminating every single blind spot from their rig. And to get that full 360-degree feeling, you can rotate and mirror each camera angle on the display as you please.
Of course, with four cameras showing at once on a humble 7-inch screen, the display is going to start feeling a little crowded. But the beauty of this setup is that when you start reversing, it automatically full screens the backup camera so you can clearly see everything that lies behind you.
Now, with four separate cameras to install and wire up, this one will take a bit of effort to install. Nonetheless, it’ll be well worth it for those sweeping 360-degree views, especially for drivers who feel a tad nervous when changing lanes.
The unit runs on either 12V or 24V, so you can rest assured it’ll work on your RV.

Pros
Four separate cameras
360-degree field of view
Automatic switch to reverse
Works on 12V or 24V
Great for lane changes

Cons
Screen looks crowded with four simultaneous cameras

6. Best for An Easy Install: AMTIFO HD 960P

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Why we like it: It’s an excellent mid-range wireless option with an effective range of up to 50 feet.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wireless
Display: 7-inch LCD / 980P
Field of View: 150
Weather Resistance Rating:
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: No
Boasting a great big 7-inch screen and an impressive 50 foot, AMTIFO offers a respectable wireless backup camera that won’t break the bank.
The thing we love most about this model is its brilliant screen, which is bigger than most and looks pristine with a 980P resolution. And that makes it so much easier to see exactly what’s going on out the back, including the tiny little details that smaller, more pixelated screens might miss.
Another big plus is the product is super easy to install. You can even purchase a suction cup add-on if you’d rather not drill into the dash to install the display.
Functionality is rather impressive here, too, as the user can manually switch between having it on all the time or only for reversing. Guidelines are also quite simple to turn on and off at the press of a button.
Weather resistance wise, it’s got an IP69 rating, which is all you’ll ever need. And should you fancy adding another camera to the mix, you can slap on a license plate camera, which is sold separately.
On the downside, the overseas-based AMTIFO company isn’t renowned for its spectacular customer service. On the rare chance that something does go wrong, you might be left to figure it out on your own. There’s also no night vision, so give this one a miss if you plan on frequently using your RV after dark.

Pros
Easy to install
Big HD screen
Can toggle camera and guidelines on / off
Strong waterproof rating

Cons
No night vision
Poor customer support

7. Best for Off-Roading: 4Ucam Digital Wireless Camera

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Why we like it: This heavy-duty wireless backup camera is built to withstand rigors both on the road and off it.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wireless
Display: 7-inch LCD / 800 x 480 pixels
Field of View: 130 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP66
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: Infrared with 11 LEDs
One for the off-road warriors, 4Ucam is a heavy-duty beast designed to hold strong through even the most rugged terrain.
While other cameras may rattle, bounce, and ultimately break if you tackle too many bumpy dirt roads, this model is built to last. The unit comes with a durable aluminum alloy metal case that’s capable of withstanding a whopping 6.8G-force—that’s more shock resistance than you could ever need. What’s more, the camera clips onto your rig with a tough steel mounting bracket that won’t come loose any time soon (but don’t worry, it’s adjustable, so you can still find the ideal angle).
The wireless system works rather well, with little interference or static during regular use. Although the manufacturer claims a range of up to 100 feet, we really don’t recommend using this one on rigs over 50 feet as there’ll be too much signal loss at that range.
The downside to this formidable workhorse is the screen isn’t all that flash. With a mere 800 x 480 pixels, it doesn’t offer anywhere near the clarity as other options on our list. Nonetheless, if you value resilience over resolution, this tough-as-nails option could be right for you.

Pros
Heavy-duty camera bracket for dirt roads
Long-lasting product
Wireless has minimal interference
Withstand 6.8G-force

Cons
Low-resolution screen

8. Best Resolution: ZEROXCLUB Backup Camera System Kit

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Why we like it: This quality wired product from ZEROXCLUB offers excellent clarity and is easy to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wired
Display: 7-inch LCD / 1280 x 720
Field of View: 140 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP69
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: 18 infrared LEDs
If you like the idea of a wired system but can’t stomach the thought of suffering through a complex install, this user-friendly product from ZEROXCLUB is worth a look. While most displays take a considerable amount of stuffing around to install the dash, with this unit, all you need to do is plug it into the 12-24V cigarette plug. Of course, you’ll still need to drill the camera into the back of the RV and run the wiring through to the reverse lights—there’s no getting out of that one.
One major draw of this model is the screen resolution, which far outperforms almost every other option on the market. With ZEROXCLUB, you get 600 horizontal lines on the display, which equates to 1280 x 720 effective pixels. And that kind of high-end resolution is on par with a modern laptop, giving you a crystal clear picture of precisely what’s happening behind your rig.
Aside from the screen, it’s a pretty decent model overall with respectable specs: 149-degree viewing angle, IP69 Waterproof rating, and 18 LED lights on the infrared.
It’s possible to wire the camera to run all the time, rather than only in reverse. However, once you hit 40mph or so, it’ll start cutting out from excess interference, despite the manufacturer claiming the wireless is suitable for 80mph or more. This little defect is hardly a deal-breaker but nice to know nonetheless.

Pros
High resolution (1280 x 720)
Easy to install
Plugs into cigarette lighter on the dash
Wide viewing angle
Lots of IR LEDs

Cons
Won’t operate at speeds over 40mph

9. Best Screen: Fookoo Ⅱ HD 9”

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Why we like it: The Fookoo II screen measures an enormous nine inches and feels just like a TV.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wired
Display: 9-inch LCD / 1920×1080
Field of View: 170 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP69
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: 18 infrared LEDs
Whoever said “size doesn’t matter” clearly hasn’t tried backing up an RV while squinting at a pathetic, pint-sized screen. The Fookoo II proves once and for all that bigger is better with its enormous 9-inch screen, which is pretty much on par with your average tablet.
And the image is crystal clear, too, with sharp 1080P technology allowing for 1920 x 1080 pixels on the screen. Compared to some of the low-end reversing cameras on the market, this screen will make you feel like you’re watching a big-budget Hollywood film taking place right behind your rig.
Given the screen is so big, it should be capable of displaying two cameras at once, right? Wrong. For reasons unbeknownst to us, Fookoo has decided only to let you monitor one camera at a time, even though two different cameras are included in the deal.
With all that data being sent back and forth, a wireless system wouldn’t cut it. And that’s why Fookoo has gone wired on this premium product, so don’t expect an easy install. Nevertheless, if you were leaning towards a wired unit anyway, its oversized, ultra-high-resolution screen makes this a top option to consider.
It is possible to downsize to a cheaper, 7-inch version of the same device—but why would you when having a massive display is the main highlight here?
Another cool feature of the Fookoo II is the screen automatically adjusts the brightness to correspond with the ambient light, which helps cut down on glare. It also doubles as a recording device (kind of like a reverse dash cam), but it’s a bit fiddly to set it up so that it continuously backs up your data.

Pros
Massive 9-inch screen
Sharp 1920 x 1080 resolution
Automatically adjust brightness
Can use as a dashcam for the back

Cons
Only display one camera at a time
Saving recorded footage is laborious

10. Best for Recording: Haloview MC7108

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Why we like it: Its user-friendly dashcam feature will save you a massive headache in the event of an accident.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wired or Wireless: Wireless
Display: 7-inch LCD / 1024 x 600 pixels
Field of View: 120 degrees
Weather Resistance Rating: IP69K
Camera Mounting: Back end
Night Vision: Infrared
Worried about someone rear-ending your rig? You should be, because not only would that be extremely dangerous, but the hassle of filing an insurance claim is immense. The worst part, of course, is proving you were in the right—in our experience, the driver at fault always seems to claim you pulled out in front of them.
Now, if you’ve got a backup camera that records video onto a hard drive on your behalf, you’ll have all the evidence you need to get the insurance company to pay out. And that’s where the MC7108 from Haloview shines.
Granted, this isn’t the only backup camera to record video. The Fookoo II, for example, is just one competitor in the space. But the beautiful thing about the Haloview is how easy the whole process is. The system will automatically copy over old footage on your behalf, so all you need to do after an accident is stop using the device to save the evidence inside.
Apart from the recording feature, the Haloview is a rather unremarkable backup camera in our books. The lackluster 1024 x 600-pixel screen is grainy at the best of times, and the 120-degree field of view has plenty of room for improvement. We also feel the wireless technology here is a little too prone to interference, which ultimately ends in ugly static.
Still, if you want a continuous recording of the backend of your rig and aren’t too fussed about having the best possible specs, Haloview is a good option for you.

Pros
Easy-to-use recording option
Recording can save you hassle after an accident
No need to manually save a recording

Cons
Low resolution
Mediocre field of view
Wireless prone to interference

RV Backup Cameras Buyer’s Guide
There’s more to the humble RV backup camera than you might think. From the technical specifications to the installation process and putting the technology into action, there’s a lot to learn about this exciting piece of tech.
And that’s why we’ve put together this in-depth buyer’s guide, to give the backup camera novice (or expert) the necessary knowledge to purchase the most appropriate model for their needs.
The Benefits of an RV Backup Camera

Backup cameras typically cost several hundred dollars and can be a pain to install.
So are they worth the hassle?
In a word: yes. The RV backup camera entails a variety of important benefits, which we’ll outline below.
Stress-Free Reversing
Larger vehicles like RVs have a massive blind spot out the back, making moving in reverse nerve-wracking even under favorable conditions. For all you know, there could be a chair, a car, or campsite directly in your path. Having a backup camera installed in your RV makes it easy to see exactly what’s behind you, so you needn’t stress about running over anything.
And if you’re a nervous driver who’s new to operating a large vehicle, that extra peace of mind is a godsend.
Easier Parking
The bigger the vehicle, the harder it is to park. And even if you’re cruising about in a modest Class B RV, your rig is still going to be a good 15 feet long. Although you can use your mirrors to line up the perfect angle for a reverse park, it’s nigh on impossible to tell what’s going on at the back end due to the blind spot. Should you reverse back even an inch too far, you could crunch into the bumper of a pristine late-model Mercedes, and then you’d have plenty of explaining to do.
A backup camera will let you know precisely how close your rear bumper is to the bollard, car, or whatever else is right behind you. That way, you can easily pull off a daunting reverse park without having to worry about the big blind spot at the back.
Enhanced Safety
While backing into a car or reversing over a camping chair is embarrassing and potentially costly, it’s not that much of a big deal—that’s what insurance is for, after all. Backing over a child, on the other hand, could be a deadly mistake.
In the United States, back over accidents kill around 200 people per year and injure over 12,000. Many of the victims are children—if you’ve ever spent time at an RV park, you know kids run around unsupervised all the time.
As backup cameras allow the driver to see what’s directly behind them, the technology reduces the likelihood of a fatal accident by a significant degree. So much so, in fact, that the Department of Transportation mandated the inclusion of a backup camera in all new vehicles (including RVs) sold from May 2018.
So if you’re planning to purchase a late model or brand new RV, then you don’t need to worry about looking for a backup camera as it’ll already come installed in the rig.
Wired Versus Wireless RV Backup Cameras
The first thing you need to decide when looking at a new backup camera is whether you want wired or wireless. In this day and age, it’s fair to assume wireless would be your best bet. And while the technology may be the superior option for many of our everyday gizmos, that’s not necessarily the case with a reversing camera.
Wired RV Backup Cameras
As you’d assume, wired backup cameras have physical wiring that connects the camera to the display screen installed on your dash, from where it will draw enough power to operate (much like your AC, it only works when the engine is running).
Although perhaps a bit “old school,” wired reversing cameras are the option of choice for keen RVers who live in their rigs full time.
Wired Backup Camera Pros
Improved Image Quality: The wiring that connects the camera to the display can transmit more information at a higher speed than a wireless setup. Therefore, these systems will deliver a superior image that’s never grainy or fuzzy.
Enhanced Reliability: Wireless signals are susceptible to interference, whether it’s a physical barrier or a competing signal (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.). Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can also interfere with the signal, ultimately resulting in a subpar image.
More Available Options: As wired backup cameras have been the preferred option for many years, there are a plethora of different options to choose from. And this abundance of choice makes it easier to find the perfect model for you.
Wired Backup Camera Cons
Hard to Install: While a wireless system is simple to hook up, a wired one isn’t so easy. You’ll have to attach the display to your dash, hook into the dashboard power supply, and run wiring all the way to the camera on the back. Most RVers choose to enlist professional help.
Expensive: As wired systems have superior quality cameras and screens, they tend to be more expensive than wireless systems. And unless you’re a DIY superstar, chances are you’ll need to pay an auto electrician to do the install, and these guys don’t come cheap.
Tricky to Repair: If part of the wiring should break, you’ll need to pull all the wiring out to locate and reconnect the failed section. Although the process isn’t exceptionally difficult or time-consuming, it will usually require a trained professional.
If you think a wired camera is right for you, the Yakry is an excellent model to consider.
Wireless RV Backup Cameras
Rather than wiring cables through your RV, the wireless system transmits a signal from the camera to a receiver on your dash. Consequently, it’s far easier to install—DIY is definitely on the cards—but the signal may suffer due to interference and/or range issues.
Wireless Backup Camera Pros
Simple Installation: Even the novice DIYer can install a wireless reversing camera themselves—the process takes a few minutes from start to finish and doesn’t require any special skills. Consequently, you’ll save money by not enlisting a professional for the install.
Better Integration: Wireless technology is compatible with devices apart from your display. It’s possible, for example, to connect a wireless camera to your smartphone or an existing screen on your dash (which is sometimes possible with wired, but always more difficult).
More Cost-Effective: Wireless backup cameras tend to be cheaper than wired models, usually because they come with inferior quality cameras and screens. Furthermore, the fact you can do a DIY install will further help reduce the total price.
Wireless Backup Camera Cons
Low-Quality Images: Wireless technology transmits data at a far slower rate than wired. Therefore, a wireless camera will have an inferior resolution, making it difficult to discern the finer details.
Interference Issues: Wireless technology is prone to interference, either from other wireless signals (say, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) or adverse weather like rain and fog. When interference occurs, your display image may become fuzzy or grainy, at times almost impossible to see.
Low Range: Wireless signals lose their strength after a certain distance, and the exact range depends on the quality of the transmitter and receiver. If you install a low-end wireless camera on the back of a long RV, then you’ll likely be unsatisfied with the results.
If you believe a wireless camera suits you best, then check out the the wireless offering from Furrion.
What To Consider With the Display Screen

Do you desire crystal clear clarity, or would you be happy with a grainy image if it’s going to save you cash?
Although the camera specifications do come into play, the main factor that affects the final image is the quality of the display. Be sure to consider the screen size and resolution when shopping for the ideal unit for you.
If you want a display to double as an entertainment system, you might consider opting for something bigger and with a better resolution. Always check to ensure your preferred product is compatible with the relevant entertainment platform.
Screen Size
Screen size varies from model to model and typically ranges from 4 to 9 inches diagonally. The larger the screen, the easier it is to see the necessary detail, so it’s worth investing in something with at least five inches.
Should you have poor eyesight or just like the look of a bigger screen, then there’s no harm in going for something a bit bigger.
Resolution
Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, which ultimately affects the quality of the image. A high number of pixels will appear sharp and clear, while a screen with few pixels looks blurry and pixelated.
While you don’t necessarily need near-perfect image clarity when backing up an RV, you do at least want to ascertain what’s behind you. At a minimum, we recommend opting for a product with 800 horizontal pixels, although more is always better.
Aside from pixels, image resolution can also be affected by the wiring and transmission source. Interference from a wireless camera, for example, will have a detrimental effect on your image.
What To Consider With the Camera
The display is only part of the equation; you need to consider what you want out of the camera component too. RV backup cameras vary in terms of the field of view, night vision capability, and weather resistance rating.
Field of View
Sometimes referred to as the “viewing angle,” the field of view refers to the width of the camera angle, which we measure in degrees. In a regular car, a field of view of 90 degrees is adequate because that allows the driver to fill in the small blind spot.
On larger vehicles such as RVs, however, the blind spot at the back is massive. Thus, the driver needs as wider an angle as possible to determine what lies behind. At a minimum, we recommend purchasing a camera with a 120-degree field of view, although there’s certainly no harm in going even wider than that.
Weather Resistance
As your RV camera will sit snugly on the exterior of your rig, it’s going to have to withstand the elements on a day-to-day basis. The manufacturers know this, which is why they’ve constructed backup cameras with a tough IPX6 or IPX7 weather resistance rating.
An IPX6 level of waterproofing means the camera will withstand massive streams of water hitting it from any angle, as you’d expect to occur during a storm.
IPX7 offers even better resistance, capable of withstanding being submerged in as much as one meter of water for 30 minutes.
We certainly hope you wouldn’t fully submerge your RV underwater for a moment, let alone 30 minutes (if you did, you’d have bigger things to worry about than a camera). Therefore, the fact of the matter is that an IPX6 rating will be sufficient. Aim for the higher end, if possible, such as an IP69.
Night Vision
Some high-end RV backup cameras come with built-in night vision technology, which lets the driver see what’s behind them after dark.
Now, in reality, the feature probably isn’t as essential as it sounds, considering most RVers will pull up at a campsite long before the sun has set. Nonetheless, it’s a nifty little add-on to have, especially for small Class B RVers who tend to be more mobile after dark.
We can measure a night vision camera’s effectiveness by looking at the lux rating, which refers to the amount of visible light a camera can detect while still providing a reasonably clear picture. Lower lux ratings equate to better night vision—0.1 means the camera will see clearly under a full moon.
However, most modern models use infrared technology, which can detect a heat source in total darkness. These come with LED lights to help them function, and the more lights you have, the better.
Night vision is mostly used in wireless backup cameras; wired backup cameras tend to use the vehicle’s tailgate lights as the primary light source.
Using an Existing Screen for Your Backup Camera
Most RV backup cameras come in a package, where the display is sold together with the camera.
It is, however, possible to purchase a backup camera by itself—for example, the eRapta ERT01 — and then integrate it with an existing screen located on your dash. This option offers three key advantages:
Save money as you don’t have to purchase a new screen
Save space on your dash as you only need to have one screen
Use your existing screen as an entertainment unit and reverse camera in one
If you decide to go down this route, you’ll need to double-check your existing display is compatible with your chosen new camera. Linking them up is pretty easy for a wireless camera, which can connect to most devices through Bluetooth. Wired cameras are more complex and often aren’t compatible with displays other than what comes in the box.
In either case, check the instruction manual of your existing display and your backup camera of choice to determine whether the two separate units will be compatible.
Purchasing a Camera and Screen Separately
While most backup cameras come with both a camera and a display, it is possible to separately purchase the two individual components.
The downside here is additional complexity—you need to ensure both units work properly together before hitting the “buy now” button. As you’re getting two separate parts from different manufacturers, the installation process will likely be more complex, and it could prove problematic to troubleshoot repairs.
So what’s the point, you may ask? This option allows you to use the precise camera and display unit you want in unison. But given the whole process is rather fiddly, we only recommend this path for advanced users with strong technical skills.
Where To Mount the Screen
An RV dash is relatively big, so it shouldn’t be all that difficult to find an appropriate place to install a screen.
Many RVers like to install the screen directly onto the horizontal surface of the dash using a vertical arm, either nailing it in or through an adhesive tape. You needn’t worry about the hot sun wreaking havoc on the screen because camera displays are specially built to withstand intense heat.
Do, however, be aware that a display located above the dash can suffer from glare. When the sun hits it at the right angle (or the wrong angle, rather), you won’t be able to see anything, and your flashy backup camera will be rendered useless.
One option is to install the screen on the dashboard, which often requires removing another component such as the factory stock radio system. Alternatively, some RVers prefer to switch out the rear-view mirror and replace it with a new one that includes a fancy in-built screen.
Where To Mount the Camera
Most RV backup cameras are installed on a bracket bolted into the back end of their rig. This simple installation option is fast and easy, plus it allows you to run the wiring through the RV with minimal fuss. Be sure to place the camera up as high as possible to achieve optimal depth perception.
If you’re worried an aftermarket backup camera could ruin the aesthetics of your rig, there are other options to consider. Some RVers do what’s called a “flush mount,” which is when you install the camera internally and drill little holes for it to peep out of. Another method is the license plate mount, where the camera is hidden away in the license plate frame where nobody can see it.
Many companies design cameras specifically for license plate use, and these are often installed in conjunction with backend mounted cameras to fill in potential blind spots.
As you’d expect, the latter two options are more complicated to install and would thus require more time and effort to pull off.
Installing A Wired RV Backup Camera
Although the precise process for installing an RV backup camera varies, you’ll likely need to complete these steps. We’re going to get pretty technical here, so get in touch with a professional instead if you’re not a confident and highly competent DIYer.
Disconnect the starter battery on your RV
Mark the spot where the camera cord will pass through the vehicle
Check you won’t damage any cables or trimming before drilling
Choose the appropriate size drill bit to bore a hole for the rubber grommet and wiring
Drill the hole into the marked area of the exterior and place a grommet in to hide the rough edges
Run the cables to the front of the car, preferably through the original wiring loom.
Power up your camera by connecting it to either the cab or the reversing lights
Link the positive and negative camera wires to the relevant light wires using a splice or a Posi-Tap connector
Remove part of the plastic coating on the positive light wire with a wire stripper, split the bare copper section into two parts, and feed the positive camera wire into the hole, getting it in-between the copper wiring.
Twist the positive camera wire around the light wire and secure the connection with electrical tape
Follow the preceding two steps for the negative wire
Fixing An RV Backup Camera
RV backup cameras can stop functioning correctly for a whole host of reasons. The best way to set about fixing your device depends on what’s gone wrong.
Blurry Images
A blurry image is probably the result of a dirty lens, which is an easy fix. Dirt, dust, grime, and condensation can accumulate on your lens, making the picture quality degrade over time.
For condensation, you can simply wait until it dries off, which shouldn’t take long once the sun has come out. If dirt is the issue, then clean your lens gently using a microfiber towel. Don’t try and use any old cloth as you could scratch the delicate glass surface.
Static
If your display shows either black or white static, that’s probably an issue with a faulty connection. Examine your wiring to ensure everything is connected correctly and intact. If you do find a frayed section, either repair it or replace the entire cable.
The No Signal Message
If your screen displays the dreaded “no signal” message, then the issue is probably either a blown-out fuse or a broken wire. Consult your vehicle’s instruction manual to locate and replace the relevant fuse. If it hasn’t blown, carefully examine all you’re wiring to ensure no cables have snapped or frayed.
For a wireless system, the solution could be as simple as turning it on or off again. Failing that, check the fuses and any wiring in the display.
A Black Screen
If your display is entirely black and there aren’t any flickering lights on the unit, you could have blown a fuse or have a wiring issue. Review your fuse box and check your wiring to ensure everything is in good condition.
Should the screen be black, but some of the display lights turn on, then the issue probably lies in your camera. Check all the relevant camera connections and replace them if need be.
RV Backup Camera FAQS
Still looking to learn more about RV backup cameras? We admire your curiosity, and we’ve put together an in-depth FAQ especially for folks like you.
Are RV Backup Cameras Worth It?
Reversing in an RV can be challenging, especially for newcomers who are still learning the ropes. Rather than risk a nasty accident while reversing, an RV backup camera fills in the blind spot so you can see exactly what’s behind you.
Although they may be pricey and a pain to install, RV backup cameras are worth it, especially for keen travelers who spend a lot of time in their rigs.
Which Is Better Wired or Wireless Backup Camera?
A wired backup camera is superior because it allows for faster data transmission and doesn’t suffer from interference. As a result, you’ll enjoy a better quality and more reliable image on your display.
There is a big downside, though: wired backup cameras are complicated (read: expensive) to install.
Do Wireless Backup Cameras Work Well?
While some wireless backup cameras offer excellent performance with minimal interference, others do not.
Stick to our recommendations to find a high-performing wireless unit that won’t disappoint.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Backup Camera?
The cost of installing a backup camera depends on the model in question.
The average wage for an auto electrician in America is around $75 per hour. A wireless backup camera should take under 15 minutes to install but count on paying the full $75 anyway (the good news is wireless is easy to DIY).
A wired system, on the other hand, could take a professional two or more hours to install.
Can I Leave My Backup Camera on All the Time?
Although it is possible to configure a backup camera to be on all the time (at least while driving, anyway), it depends on how you install the device.
Most people prefer to power the camera component from the reversing lights, making it turn on automatically whenever you chuck the car in reverse. But if you choose to use an alternative power source, the screen will be permanently switched on as you drive.
Where Should I Mount My Rear-View Camera?
Most RVers prefer to mount their cameras on the back end of the rig, placing it as high as possible to maximize the field of view. On RVs, license plate mountings are preferred as a second camera to complement the first.
Most car owners use a license plate camera as the primary camera because the angle is acceptable, and they bolt onto existing screws, so there’s no need to drill into the body of the car.
What Year Did Cars Get Backup Cameras?
Backup cameras became mandatory in all new cars (and RVs) sold in America in May 2018. Older cars are not currently required to retrofit a backup camera, although it is a good idea.
How Long Do Backup Cameras Last?
A backup camera’s shelf life varies depending on its quality, how often you drive, and the type of terrain you traverse—bumpy country roads aren’t great for backup cameras.
As a rule of thumb, however, you can expect your backup camera to last ten years or so.
RV Backup Cameras: Final Thoughts
If you’ve made it this far, you’re now a certified expert in the realm of backup cameras for an RV. And now that you’re a reversing camera know-it-all, the only thing left to do is find the perfect product from our top 10 list.
Once you’ve got a backup camera correctly installed in your rig, you’ll enjoy hassle-free reversing for years to come, and you won’t have to stress about accidentally reversing into a wall. More

You don’t have to be in a Hollywood spy movie to want to see in the dark. If you do anything at night, whether it’s hunting, trail driving, or you just show up late to your campsite, a simple night vision device is a great tool to have.
The good news is that now is a better time than ever to buy one. We have come a long way from the days of stale green, heavy, and expensive devices. If you are in the market for a night vision device, a compact and ultra-versatile monocular is a great option.
We put together this guide so you can grab an excellent monocular that will fit right into your lifestyle, whether that’s prepping for the apocalypse or a bit of airsoft on the weekend. We’ll start with a quick breakdown of what you need to know to differentiate models and then launch into a top ten list to narrow down your options. After that, we’ll get into some of the more complicated concepts so you can learn everything there is to know about this technology.

Buying the Right Night Vision Monocular
Night vision is a simple concept. Even in the dead of night, there is still a small amount of light. If you magnify that light enough, you can see in the dark. Scientists figured out how to do that in the early 1900s. In fact, the US has been outfitting soldiers with night vision capabilities as far back as WWII, and they have been improving things ever since.
This has led to a ton of different features and options over the years as companies have improved on those designs. When you choose one for yourself, you’ll need to at least have some idea of which of those features you want. In the following section, we’ll try to touch on many of the common features so you’ll have an idea of what to look for.
Major Considerations
There are three main things to compare when looking at night vision devices, and those will probably be your biggest considerations when deciding on one for yourself.
Image Quality
First and foremost, when you buy a night vision monocular, you want to be able to see in the dark. How far and how well you can see in the dark can vary greatly. We’ll discuss some of the different technologies in the big guide below, but there are basically two main types of night vision devices: Digital and Generational.
Digital devices have largely replaced the classic generations of night vision. They offer better image quality, although the lower end of the market still contains some very good budget generational devices. Digital devices can also do a lot more than a traditional device, like take pictures or transmit the image to other technology.
The spectrum and amount of light they can capture will directly influence how much you can see. We have included videos from around the web that show what each monocular looks like when you look through it so you can see for yourself.
Common Features
There are a handful of common features that you may want from a monocular. Look for things like:
The ability to record video
The ability to take pictures
The inclusion of an IR illuminator, a device that is like a night vision flashlight
Different color modes
Magnification
Rechargeable batteries
Mounts for helmets or rifles
What You Want to Do With Night Vision
The best way to make sense of these considerations is to determine what you want to do with the device. Here are some suggestions:
Documenting Adventures: If you want to record videos to share, consider looking for monoculars that make it easy to record and post. You’ll probably need to spend more so that the video quality translates well to bigger screens.
Hunting: There are a lot of monoculars that have special features that make tracking things easier. If you are hunting boars or ghosts, thermal imaging will probably be at the top of your want list, and you’ll probably want to look for something with 4x magnification or greater. To spot something miles away, you’ll probably want a dedicated pair of hunting binoculars, too.
Off-Roading: Out on the trails at night, you’ll need a way to spot obstacles or scout ahead. A monocular that is easy to use and can be stored in your vehicle will probably suit you best.
Home Security: Being able to survey your land and tell at a glance whether the sound you hear is a burglar or a raccoon can help you sleep soundly. Clear visuals, illuminators, and the ability to snap a picture will help you quickly identify would-be trespassers and document them.
With all that in mind, let’s get into the reviews.

Top 10 Best Night Vision Monoculars 2020
1. Best Overall Monocular: SiOnyx Aurora Sport

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Why we like it: The Aurora Sport is a do-everything device with surprisingly good image quality, and is decently affordable.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Not Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The Aurora Sport does two things that make it a perfect all-around tool. First, it doubles as a fully functional action camera. If you are hunting ghosts or bigfoots in the dead of night, you’ll be sure to capture whatever you see. Second, it’s one of the few offerings that displays an image with something close to accurate color. It’s not perfect, but it doesn’t take any getting used to.
With those two features, you get a device that almost anyone can find utility in. Want a night vision dash cam for recording your night crawling through the Rubicon? It can do it. Want to send your buddy out into the freezing night to spot for you as you crawl on some rocks? It’s a great tool for that too.
How Does It Compare?
The big problem with the Sport is that by being an all-arounder, it doesn’t do anything particularly well.
It’s not the best night vision imaging on our list for the price; that honor would go to something like the Night Owl. Any of the conventional generation 1 devices are cheaper, and many devices are a lot more portable and better suited for hunting. Honestly, if you are doing a lot of hunting, get the Leupold LTO. Even if you opt for the cheaper options, you’ll still be super happy with it because of the high contrast images and longer range.
That all being said, though, nothing except its more expensive sibling comes close in terms of all-around functionality. The more expensive Aurora has a few features that the less expensive Aurora Sport doesn’t have, like GPS and extra shock absorption for mounting to firearms. They both have a great battery, although it is brand-specific, and they both function in an extremely intuitive way.
In the end, though, the Sport does 99% of everything you could want, and we can honestly say that if you just want something to help you see in the dark, you won’t be disappointed.

Pros
Can record, take photos, and act as a simple scope
Is very intuitive to use
You don’t have to get used to how traditional night vision looks

Cons
The image is lower quality compared to a dedicated scope
Uses a proprietary battery

2. Best Budget Monocular: Firefield Nightfall

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Why we like it: It’s really surprising how good this device is considering how little it costs. If you just want to spot check a few things at camp before settling in, it’s absolutely perfect.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Gen 1
Magnification: 4x
Illuminator: Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The Firefield Nightfall is the absolute perfect tool for anyone that wants to scope things out in the dark but doesn’t have much money to spend. It is a simple, rugged device that has an integrated illuminator; it’s all you need if you are just trying to find your tent in the dark or spot wildlife on a night hike.
How Does It Compare?
This scope punches way above its budget in terms of functionality, and that’s why we like it so much. It has an illuminator, which sets it apart from many budget options, and it’s surprisingly well built.
It also has 4x magnification, which really sets it apart from our other budget option, the Carson MiniAura. The MiniAura is a lot more compact, so if portability is your main concern, it’s a better bet. The Firefield really does do everything else better, though, so unless you really need a pocket-sized night vision monocular, get the Firefield.
The drawback is that everything else will give you a better view except for the previously mentioned Carson. It’s a traditional generation 1 device that just will never have the contrast or range of a digital or higher generation device. The Night Owl iGen probably has the best image you can get for the price. Those cost more, but they have a digital processor that refines the image.
For general purpose stuff, though, the Firefield is a fine addition to any kit, especially for the price. Just take a look at the example; you’ll probably be as impressed as we were.

Pros
Inexpensive
Durable
Has 4x magnification and an illuminator

Cons
The image quality and range isn’t great
It’s on the large side

3. Best Hunting Monocular: Leupold LTO Tracker 2 HD

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Why we like it: It can highlight game at 750 yards in the dead of night, and it’s about the size of a maglight. If you are tracking at night, whether it’s by Jeep or snowshoe, this is a device that will serve you well.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Not Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The Tracker 2 sacrifices almost all the features you’d find on other monoculars in order to be the ultimate game spotting tool. It doesn’t record, it doesn’t take pictures, and it doesn’t have digital zoom. It has no illuminator, and it won’t help you navigate.
What it will do is survive with you on a three-day trek through the wilderness as you chase down an animal. It’s specially designed to have absolutely bulletproof durability, and it has insanely high-contrast imaging that highlights warmth. You can spot a buck at 700 yards in the dead of night, even if it’s mostly obscured by branches.
It’s good for more than just game, though; you can hit the button and highlight absolutely anything with a heat signature. If you are playing follow the leader running night drives through the desert, your copilot can easily keep track of the convoy using their exhaust trail.
How Does It Compare?
The Tracker 2 is unparalleled when it comes to spotting heat sources and withstanding harsh elements. If you want anything else from a monocular, though, there are better options. The Pulsar Axion is a very good spotting scope and can do things like snap pictures and record video. It’s more expensive than the Tracker 2 HD, but not much.
If the price is an issue, the FLIR TK Scout is compact, easy to use, and highly sensitive to thermal signatures. It’s very similar in function and idea to the Tracker, it’s just not as robust or good at highlighting signatures. If the Tracker 2 HD is out of your budget and you need to take pictures, get the FLIR TK Scout. Otherwise, just get the less expensive non-HD LTO Tracker here.

Pros
Beautiful high-contrast image
Very compact
Waterproof and durable

Cons
On the expensive side
Has very few extra features

4. Best Premium Monocular: Pulsar Axion XM30

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Why we like it: The Axion XM30 is compact, has a decent zoom feature, and delivers incredible high-contrast images.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 4-16x
Illuminator: Not Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The XM30 feels like it’s straight out of a spy film. You can dial in some amazing high-contrast video feeds, take pictures, and there are enough settings and display types to make you feel like the thing was a present from Bond himself.
What that translates to is that this is a pretty serious tool with a high cost to match. It’s one of the highest quality monoculars you can buy. People who want the highest quality they can get will not be disappointed.
How Does It Compare?
First things first, nothing on our list is as expensive as this monocular. That can be a tough obstacle to overcome, especially when the Leupold LTO is also a very competent, high-definition monocular, and it’s quite a bit cheaper. Your hunting buddies won’t be lining up to look through the Leupold, though.
It also is a little harder to use than other devices. It takes video, but it’s not as easy to use. In fact, the whole form factor leaves a little bit to be desired. You will need to change the settings around to fit your style, but the buttons are not easily accessible.
These are really nitpicky points, though. That’s because there’s not much to complain about. It’s not a great video camera, fine. If you want a video camera, grab the Aurora Pro. If you want a really competent hunting and spotting tool, the XM30 is absolutely fantastic.

Pros
Amazing image quality
Has a lot of settings for dialing in your preferences
Has recording and image capture capabilities

Cons
It’s pretty expensive
It may take you a while to get used to how to use it

5. Monocular with the Best Image Quality: Night Owl iGEN

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Why we like it: The iGEN technology inside this device gives it better image clarity than even units that cost a lot more.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: iGEN (digital)
Magnification: 2.6x
Illuminator: Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
If you want to really experience what modern night vision is like, give this monocular a try. First, it displays a really fantastic image without being super expensive. Second, it’s not the bright green display you are probably expecting. Instead, you can choose between black and white, green, red, and amber. Many people prefer black and white to the standard green. It’s not better per se; it’s just that many people find it easier to get used to a black and white image.
How Does It Compare?
When it comes to what you can see with it, it really stands out. You’d have to spend a lot more on something like the Pulsar Axion to get better quality. Even then, unless you are really taking advantage of the fine-tuning that the Axion brings, you might even prefer the Night Owl.
There are a few issues that can be a deal-breaker with the Night Owl, though. The first thing is that if you care about recording video, leave the Night Owl behind. It has a video output that you can theoretically hook up to something, but unless you plan on lugging around an old laptop with you wherever you go, you probably don’t have a way to record that output.
It also just sucks through batteries. Unless you carry piles of double As with you, you’ll have to ration your spotting power.
It’s hard to argue with the quality, though. If you aren’t worried about being found, you’ll be fine.

Pros
It’s a great value
You get a choice of screen colors
Very good image quality

Cons
The recording feature is difficult to utilize
It’s not great for longer expeditions

6. Easiest Monocular to Use: Bushnell Equinox Z

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Why we like it: Bushnell is a household name when it comes to optics, so you know you are getting a high-quality device that will deliver on what it promises. In this case, what it promises is decent image quality from a weatherproof, easy to use device.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 4.5x
Illuminator: Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The Bushnell Equinox Z is a perfect general purpose spotter. The 750ft viewing range is perfect for looking for things in the distance, and the IR illuminator brings out the detail in things that are up close. Add in the water-resistant, durable housing, and you have a great backpacking or off-roading spotting scope that you can rely on.
How Does It Compare?
This monocular sits comfortably between the Night Owl and the Firefield. It’s less expensive than the Night Owl but lacks the sharpness. It’s more expensive than the Firefield, and it has a better quality to match the price increase.
What sets the Bushnell apart is that it is a digital monocular that is really easy to use. You get many perks of a digital device, like the ability to snap pictures, without the added complexity of other units like the Night Owl. That simplicity also allows the Bushnell to be really robust and water-resistant, so you can drop it a few times and it won’t have any issues.
One final thing to note is that Bushnell is a well-known brand in the hunting and optics world. That’s probably not a significant deciding factor on its own, but if you already have an 8×50 scope and a pair of binocs from Bushnell, you can add in this night vision device to round out your kit.

Pros
Bushnell is a trusted brand
It’s very easy to use
It’s extra durable

Cons
The image quality is just ok
It costs more than similar products because of the brand name

7. Best Monocular for Recording Video: SiOnyx Aurora

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Why we like it: This device is as feature-rich as they come. It’s weapons rated, has an internal GPS, and runs on interchangeable Li-Ion batteries that last through the night.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Not Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
It’s everything that the Aurora Sport is, just beefed up. One of the biggest differences is that it’s specially outfitted to survive being attached to a rifle, so you can use it for hunting and airsoft. If you ever wanted to record a night game and post it to youtube, this is a really fantastic tool for that.
It goes beyond that, though. Everything about this monocular lends itself to outdoor sports. It takes a picture when it senses recoil, it has an onboard GPS, and it can constantly display a compass in the viewfinder. It’s set up from the factory to be your tactical night operation companion.
How Does It Compare?
There are a few things you have to really think about before buying this Aurora monocular. The first is whether or not you will take advantage of the weapon rating. It’s very easy to mount the Aurora inline with an optic on a rail, which is great if that’s something you want to do.
If, however, you just want a spotting scope or a simple viewfinder for tracking, there are much better options. The FLIR TK is cheaper and has a much higher contrast for spotting animals.
The second thing to think about is the cost compared to the Aurora Sport. The truth is that the Aurora Sport is still a highly capable device. In the demo link above, you can see that the image quality between the Pro and the Sport is very similar. If you don’t need WiFi or the ability to mount it to a rifle, you’d be saving a lot of money by just picking up the Sport instead.
That being said, you won’t find an easier to use night vision action camera, and you especially won’t find one that easily mounts to a sight rail. Those features make the Aurora an excellent device for anyone that wants to record their escapades.

Pros
Easy to use
Has features that make it good for mounting to firearms
Super durable

Cons
Image quality isn’t amazing
It’s a little expensive compared to competitors

8. Best Compact Monocular: FLIR Scout TK

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Why we like it: The Scout TK is one of the smallest devices on this list, but it can still record great video using FLIR’s world-famous thermal imaging processor.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Not Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
FLIR is very well known for thermal imaging and is a prolific player in the inspection and construction industry. The Scout TK is a compact, easy to use thermal imaging scope that is a perfect solution for anyone that wants to add thermal imaging to their toolbox.
It can be a decent outdoor tracking or camp tool, but it’s really good for use as just a simple, general-purpose thermal imaging device. Walking around your house at night, checking for critters, or checking for insulation issues in your cabin, that kind of stuff. If you have an RV or camp trailer, this is a perfect addition to the toolbox.
How Does It Compare?
Where thermal imaging really shines strongly as an outdoor tool is in spotting animals. The issue is that if that’s your goal, like if you are hunting or tracking migration or something, the Leupold LTO is a better tool. It’s tougher and has better contrast.
If you want something that is more of a night vision device and less of a dedicated thermal imager, you won’t like the FLIR TK. It is a very compact and very easy to use device, but it probably won’t help you find your way back to your tent. The Night Owl monocular is cheaper, and it will allow you to better see in the dark.
The FLIR TK has a lot of features that other devices don’t have, though. You can take pictures and record videos on this tiny device. It’s also made by FLIR, which is a very trustworthy brand, and they have a warranty to back it up. If those things are appealing to you, you really won’t be disappointed with it.

Pros
FLIR is a well-known brand
It’s very easy to use
It’s compact

Cons
There are better thermal monoculars
It’s not great for basic night vision

9. Best Pocket Night Vision Monocular: Carson MiniAura

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Why we like it: It weighs 3.4 ounces and is barely over 2 square inches, but still delivers ok night vision, making it perfect for building an inexpensive survival kit.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
The one thing that makes the Carson MiniAura stand out is its size. This thing is tiny. It weighs less than anything else on our list, and it can easily fit into your pocket. When you combine that with the low price, you get a perfect piece of equipment to store in your emergency kit.
The image quality isn’t very good, but it works well enough to let you find your way around when there’s no light. When the conditions get bad, being able to find your way around is paramount. Just be sure to keep some AAAs in the kit alongside it.
How Does It Compare?
There is no comparison when it comes to size and cost, so if those are your biggest concerns, this is the one to get. It’s also straightforward to use, but that’s because it’s so simple. Everything else on the list has better image quality, though, and most have better build quality as well.
The easiest comparison to make is to the similarly inexpensive Firefield Nightfall. Unfortunately, the Carson MiniAura looks really weak by comparison. The Nightfall has some magnification, doesn’t require as much power, and has much better image quality. If you plan on using the monocular often or don’t mind spending a few more dollars for a better image, the Nightfall is a much better value.
The Nightfall won’t fit in your shirt pocket, though. You’ll have to decide if the ultra-compact size is worth sacrificing some visibility.

Pros
Inexpensive
Very small and easy to transport
Easy to use

Cons
Image quality could be better
It’s not as durable as competitors

10. Best Monocular Alternative: WP7 Rugged Smartphone

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Why we like it: The whole point of a monocular is that they are easy to transport and adaptable. Your cellphone is also meant to be easy to transport and adaptable, so why not combine the two?
Editor’s Rating:

Facts at a Glance
Type: Digital
Magnification: 1x
Illuminator: Included
Demo Video
What’s It Best For?
There are people that spend a lot of time outdoors at night. Adventurers, hunters, campers, and all manner of handy people often find themselves having to perform tasks and move around after dark, so it makes sense for them to own some manner of night vision device. Almost all people nowadays have a cellphone as well, so it makes sense to combine the two.
Enter the WP7, a smartphone that has a night vision camera on it. There are two scenarios where it really makes sense.
First, it makes a great complementary tool to other devices. You can use it to secure your night vision scope before heading out, for instance. The second thing is that you’ll probably always have it on you. That means if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to see in the dark, and you didn’t prepare for it, you’ll be able to just pull out your cell phone and use it to find your way out.
How Does It Compare?
It’s a little hard to compare to other devices since nothing else does what it can do. What you will end up seeing is that it’s not an amazing cell phone, and it’s not an amazing night vision device.
Any flagship Android device will put the performance to shame, even if it won’t be as durable. Any dedicated monocular like the Bushnell Equinox will give you better clarity in low light situations, but they can’t do anywhere near as much as a cellphone can do.
This can do both, though, and that’s really amazing. People who want to be prepared for absolutely anything can pick one up and add night vision to their capabilities without needing a separate device.

Pros
Combines the usefulness of night vision with the convenience of a cell phone
Android platform is popular and well documented
It’s very durable

Cons
It’s not a great cellphone
It’s not a great night vision device

In-Depth Guide to Night Vision Monoculars
We discussed a lot of things in the short buying guide before the reviews, but there were probably still a handful of things within the reviews that you have questions about. In this section, we’ll go over many of them. To start off with, we’ll say some more about the technology used to help you see in the dark.
How Night Vision Works
As we mentioned before, night vision devices at their core simply take the light that is already out there and magnify it until it’s visible to the human eye.
It is, of course, much more complicated to accomplish that than it is to describe it. If you want to take a dive down that rabbit hole, start with this simple guide. Once you feel a little bit comfortable with the terms, the Department of Homeland Security has a 24-page publication that does an excellent job breaking down different devices across the entire night vision spectrum.
For our purposes, though, let’s stick to looking at the differences between two main technologies.
Traditional (also known as Generational)
Traditional devices have a lens that lets in light, and you look through that lens. There is a device behind the lens that amplifies light. The differences between generations largely come down to how the amplifier is constructed.
There are 4 generations of traditional night vision technology, with each generation surpassing the previous in quality and range. Usually, consumer devices will be either generation 1 or 2, while military and police hardware will be generation 3 or 4. Price is the most significant barrier between generations. Even generation 3 technology can be over ten times as expensive as generation 1.
If you want to know more about the generations, here is a good article that breaks them down.
Downsides to Traditional Devices
One of the biggest downsides of a traditional device is that it can be damaged by normal light levels. The infrared sensors and amplifiers only last for a set amount of time before the reactive parts are damaged to the point that they no longer function. The more intense light they receive, the faster they degrade. The high price for good quality, that degradation over time, and the technology’s inaccessibility caused digital devices to begin replacing traditional devices, though some budget traditional monoculars still offer good value.
Digital
Digital devices work like a camera. If you take your cell phone, switch it to video mode, and look through the screen, it is working exactly like a digital monocular. In fact, we even have a cell phone on our list that doubles as a night vision camera.
There are a handful of advantages to that. The first is that as technology advances, it becomes cheaper. You can get a very high-quality camera for a fraction of the price of a high-quality traditional night vision device.
Since they do function like a camera and a screen, they can also often transmit live video or offer a variety of visual effects that you can apply directly to the image. Unlike traditional night vision, digital devices can display a wide range of color pallets and even artificially highlight things.
Digital devices also don’t degrade over time, and they can’t be damaged by bright lights. That has led to an increase in the number of devices that work during the day and night. That’s really handy if you are cutting down on the number of things you want to carry around.
Downsides to Digital Devices
There are a few downsides, though. They take a lot more energy, for one thing. You’ll notice that a lot of devices either use a ton of batteries or come with their own lithium battery packs.
They can also be slower to display things that are in view. There is a slight delay between what the lens sees and what gets displayed because the device has to process the image and then refresh the screen. 99% of users won’t have an issue since we are talking about fractions of a fraction of a second here.
When you stack that potential to miss movement with digital’s other big downside, you’ll begin to see why high-end night vision devices still rely on generational technology. Gen 3, 4, and variant night vision devices have no cap on the resolution, other than your eyes. Since it relies on pixels displayed on a tiny screen, a digital device will always have a resolution cap that is not as high as what the average eye can see.
Thermal Imaging

You will notice in our reviews that there are really three separate types of devices. There are traditional devices and digital devices, and then the digital devices are further broken down into ones with thermal imaging and ones without.
In order to refrain from diving into a college-level thesis on the wavelength spectrum, it’s enough to know that both thermal sensors and night vision lenses see in infrared radiation. The IR that night vision sees is much closer to the normal light that we can see, which is why they work well with an IR illuminator. A traditional night vision device amplifies the light we see and the near-infrared light (NIR) and creates a composite image for you to view.
Thermal sensors see the type of infrared that is further away from the visible spectrum. We interpret this as heat, but in reality, it’s only a measurement of the intensity of that infrared radiation. FLIR, one of the most well-known names in thermal imaging, has a good write up about it here.
Traditional vs. Thermal
The big benefit to thermal imaging is that it gives you a ton of contrast since it isn’t affected by visible light. That’s why when you look at a bear in thermal imaging, it’s a big red scary blob against a dark blue background: the bear is warm, the background is cold, and that’s all the sensor “sees.” It doesn’t matter if there are tree branches in the way; they are the same “color” as the background.
The downside is that you lose almost all definition. Since the sensor won’t differentiate between a cold concrete slab and a cold lake, you don’t want to use them for navigation or anything like that. Fortunately, most competent thermal imaging monoculars use a combination of both technologies. That way, you can see Bigfoot and the river you’re about to fall into if you chase him.
Enjoy the Dark
Being able to see in low light situations can help you feel comfortable when light is scarce. That comfort can be from the security you feel when you know what’s out there, or simply feeling safe knowing that you won’t fall down a pit when you are stumbling back to camp. By picking up one of the monoculars we listed, you can have that comfort. Just be sure to let us know if you really do capture that photo of an alien; we’d love to see it. More

Have you ever watched a horror movie with no sound? It’s awful. It’s just a bunch of people looking dumb and falling down a lot. That’s what your car is like if it has a terrible exhaust system.
It doesn’t matter how nice the ride is, how powerful it is, or how good it looks; the first thing people notice when you roll into a meet is how it sounds. That means they’ll have made all the judgments they are going to make before you even come to a stop.
A good resonator is a great way to make sure your exhaust system commands respect instead of turning up noses.

A Short Guide to Resonators
Whether you are building a custom exhaust system or just replacing a rotted component, there are things you need to know before buying a new exhaust resonator. Giving you that information is what we aim to do. First, with this short guide, and then with a list of the best resonators on the market right now. Finally, we’ll hit you with a big guide that expands on some of the concepts we cover in the quick guide and some big picture ideas concerning exhaust system design.
Mufflers vs. Resonators
Many people tend to confuse resonators with mufflers, but they are actually separate components in an exhaust system. Adding to the confusion is the fact that different cars have one, the other, neither, or both. We’ll go more into exhaust systems in the big guide at the bottom, but here let’s talk about the two exhaust system pieces that effect sound the most.
Mufflers
Mufflers make your car quieter. They “muffle” the sound. Sometimes, mufflers have designs similar to resonators, but a muffler is primarily meant to lower your exhaust’s decibel level.
Resonators
Unlike mufflers, resonators are not meant to make your car quieter. Instead, they change the profile of the sound your car creates. They are often mounted before mufflers and can be called “pre-mufflers” because of that.
The most common reasons to install a resonator are to eliminate droning and rasping. Droning is constant, unpleasant noise at certain RPMs, while rasping is the harsh metallic sound you can get as the RPMs climb. Here’s a great example on YouTube, and we’ll hit on it more in our big guide at the bottom.
Making Sure It Fits Your Car
One of the biggest considerations when buying an exhaust resonator is whether it can be used with your vehicle or not. The answer comes down to 3 main properties.
Installation
We’ll hit this category again in the big guide, but there are a variety of ways that a resonator can be installed.
Most need to be welded in place, but some simply slip over the existing pipe and are clamped. Factory and factory replacement resonators, which are perhaps the easiest inline resonators to install, use standard flanged fittings that bolt directly to existing components.
Size
This is a bit obvious, but if you plan on installing a resonator that’s 3ft long and 8in in diameter, but are driving a tiny car, it’s not going to work.
Usually, if you are replacing a stock resonator with an aftermarket resonator, you’ll have no issue. Those of you with custom exhaust systems will have to get the tape measure out, though.
Inlet Diameter
Not all exhaust pipes are the same diameter. In fact, they vary wildly based on a lot of factors. You can adapt the size up or down, but that’s not an ideal way of doing things. It’s better to go out and measure your car’s exhaust at the point of installation instead.
Resonator Designs
Most resonators work in the same way. They create space for sound to resonate, and you can tune them to emphasize or eliminate different noises. The easiest way to understand how they work is to picture yourself shouting inside a metal shed versus shouting inside a concert hall. You’ll sound way better in the concert hall because of the extra space and low-frequency response.
Sound
Since they all work similarly, the biggest differences in resonator design concern sound. A resonator allows the sound to bounce around inside the space it creates and lowers the energy of the high-frequency waves. In other words, it’s making the bass come through better while killing the highs.
In our reviews, we will try and give you an idea of how each resonator will shape your sound, but the truth is that every car and every exhaust system is different. Searching YouTube or going to local car meets will give you a much better idea of how your vehicle will sound with varying styles.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s jump into our list of best resonators. We tried to get a good selection that ranges from ultra-easy to install to ones that require professional installation, so you are bound to find something that fits your needs.

Top 10 Best Exhaust Resonators 2020
1. Best Overall Exhaust Resonator: Vibrant Bottle Style Resonator

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Why we like it: It’s inexpensive, has a nearly universal fit, and sounds great.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
With a very modest 12″ length and a very common 2.5″ inlet diameter, it’s improbable that this resonator will not fit your system.
However, like with all weld-in designs, it’s a bit harder to install than others. It needs to be installed between the catalytic converter and the muffler, and that means you will need to hack apart your current system to place it in. That’s pretty common, so it’s not bad, but it is much easier to install units like the DC Sport tip or the slip-on LCGP resonator.
How Does It Sound?
A small resonator like this is really good at cleaning up your exhaust sound without altering the tone. Basically, you’ll get a lot less drone and rasp. If you like the sound of your car already and just want to clean up the sound, it’s perfect.
The only thing that might leave you wanting is that it doesn’t improve the bass response. In fact, if you have a quiet exhaust already, you may not even notice a difference.
Our Take
There are two resonators on our list that are very, very similar apart from one thing. This one, the Vibrant Bottle, is a lot less expensive than the very similar Vibrant Ultra Quiet Resonator.
They are both about the same size, and they both do the same thing: they kill the rasp and the drone. Simply put, the Vibrant Bottle is just the inexpensive, slightly lower quality version of the Ultra Quiet. It’s not bad by any means, but the finish isn’t as nice, and it doesn’t flow quite as well. You can see it instantly by looking at the pictures. The Bottle resonator just doesn’t look as good. For the ratio of price, quality, and sound, though? We have to say the Vibrant Bottle is the best in class.

Pros
It’s a really good value
It kills the drone and the rasp
It’s a good size for most cars

Cons
You won’t notice much of a difference if you have a quiet car
Not particularly easy to install

2. Best Premium Exhaust Resonator: Vibrant Ultra Quiet Resonator

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Why we like it: The Vibrant Ultra Quiet is simply the best way to eliminate drone without sacrificing sound quality.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
This particular model has a 3″ inlet and outlet, though they sell the most common diameters. It is only a little bigger than the Vibrant Bottle, and that means chances are it will fit whatever vehicle you plan on attaching it to.
Like the Vibrant Bottle, it’s best suited for welding inline between the catalytic converter and the muffler.
How Does It Sound?
The Ultra Quiet absolutely excels at cleaning up your exhaust sound. Do you have a harsh rasp, droning, or rattly tin-like sound? All of that will be gone with the Ultra-Quiet. Like the Vibrant Bottle, it doesn’t really change the tone too much. It just turns your car from an old 8-track format to a modern high-bitrate MP3.
Unlike most resonators, though, the Vibrant Ultra Quiet will make your exhaust a bit quieter. Up to 15db quieter, which is often just enough to make your car legal in California. That can be a great thing if you want to be a little stealthier without sacrificing tonality. At the same time, it can be terrible if you believe that loud pipes save lives.
Our Take
One more thing we want to point out is that this resonator is really pretty. The rolled edges, the machine welded inlets, and the polished stainless steel all make for a great looking piece of exhaust gear. It’s a shame you’ll be sticking it under your car, where no one can see it.
All in all, the Vibrant Ultra Quiet is just a really great resonator. It is more costly than most others, which is unfortunate. Still, the quality and performance are also higher than others, so it works out.

Pros
It’s good looking
It works great for cleaning up the exhaust sound
It will quiet down your car

Cons
It will quiet down your car
It’s expensive

3. Best Budget Exhaust Resonator: DC Sports EX Bolt-On

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Why we like it: This bolt-on resonator looks good and is dirt cheap. It’s also incredibly easy to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
The DC Sports resonator uses 3 tabs to clamp onto anything it fits over. This one will work on pipes ranging from 1.75″ all the way to 2.5″, though they sell bigger ones. Plus, since they just bolt to the end of the pipe, you usually don’t have to modify your vehicle. There isn’t anything easier to install or more universal on our list.
How Does It Sound?
Like the other more expensive exhaust tip on our list, the Borla tip resonator, the DC Sports Bolt-On adds bass. It won’t totally kill rasp or drone, and it won’t do anything for volume, but it will make your engine sound like it makes a little more power by upping the bass.
What you really need to keep in mind when you look at the DC Sports Bolt-On is that it costs $20 and is meant to fit anything. Don’t expect miracles. It won’t make your stock Civic DX sound like a new Type R. It will, however, make your Civic sound a little faster when you floor it onto the freeway.
You can hear one in action in this YouTube video and see if it fits the bill.
Our Take
It’s $20, and it will make your car sound a little bit better. It’s tough to criticize something that costs so little and is so easy to install. As long as you don’t go in expecting it to perform the same as the Vibrant Ultra Quiet or anything, there’s no reason you won’t be happy.
You’ll just have to get over two hurdles. It’s not a significant sound upgrade, and some people might not like how it changes the tone. Yes, it adds some bass, but on some vehicles, that’s not a desirable thing.
The other thing you’ll have to do is ignore the haters. These types of resonators have a harsh reputation among car enthusiasts, and you’ll absolutely hear terms like “Rice” and “AutoZone Junk.” It’s your car, though, and a car is a platform for you to express yourself. Tell the haters to go pound sand.

Pros
It’s inexpensive
It’ll fit everything from a motorcycle to a big SUV
It can be installed with simple hand tools

Cons
It doesn’t sound as good as an inline resonator will
Clamp-on exhaust tips have a bad reputation

4. Best Inexpensive Inline Exhaust Resonator: LCGP Weld-In Resonator

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Why we like it: The LCGP resonator is an effective resonating muffler that is very reasonably priced.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
The LCGP resonator is both a glass pack muffler and a resonator, so chances are it will fit any custom system. The problem is that you can’t just drop it into a system. It’s weld-in only, and unlike a component that’s only a resonator, you run the risk of really altering your engine’s sound for the worse. That means you do need to do a little research and planning before committing to this product.
The good news is that you can use it for a single component exhaust since it’s a muffler and a resonator.
How Does It Sound?
Like the other resonator on our list that lowers the volume, the Vibrant Ultra-Quiet, the thing you will notice most is that the LCGP kills rasp and makes the car a little quieter. It’s not as good at getting rid of a loud drone, though.
Where it shines is if you use it as a single component. When you do, you are going to get that very traditional glass-pack sound. You’ll get rid of pops and annoying high-frequencies that you would otherwise get with a straight pipe, but you won’t get rid of the growl.
Our Take
Cheap exhausts are a staple of entry-level car builds. It’s really easy to see why; a good exhaust system can easily cost two thousand dollars or more. The problem is that cheap parts usually have low quality, and they don’t sound good. The common term for these systems is “Fart Cans,” which is not meant endearingly.
Building the system piece by piece is a good way to avoid many pitfalls that a cheap eBay system brings. The LCGP is inexpensive, but still has a good sound and an ok build quality. You lose convenience since universal parts are harder to install.
You make up for that loss by getting a resonator that can pass for a quality exhaust component. They even make one that clamps on instead of welds in; it’s on our list here.
Just know that whether you are clamping or welding, it’s not a premium product. The insides will break down faster than other units, and you will be replacing them sooner. As we mentioned above, it’s a perfect entry-level part.

Pros
It’s inexpensive
It can be used instead of a muffler if you want
It sounds better than the price would suggest

Cons
It won’t last as long as dedicated components will
It’s harder to install

5. Best Performance Exhaust Resonator: Borla Stainless Steel Resonator

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Why we like it: Need correction
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
The Borla Resonator is universal, so just like the Vibrant Bottle or Ultra Quiet, if you have the same exhaust diameter as the part, it will fit.
Although this is Borla we are talking about, they don’t make installation simple. It’s short, precise, and absolutely needs to be welded in. With other cheap resonators you might get away with using a steel exhaust clamp and JB weld, but you are getting rid of everything that makes the Borla nice if you do that with this resonator.
How Does It Sound?
It sounds beautiful. Borla is one of the masters of exhaust tuning and noise, so they make parts that make your car sound more powerful. Their resonators tune out sharp pops and high-frequencies to give you a really smooth, nice growl. This video does a good job of showcasing what they sound like.
Our Take
The truth is that you probably aren’t going to be happy if you buy an expensive performance resonator like this and aren’t putting it in an expensive, performance exhaust system. If you are doing a simple upgrade to a car, the Vibrant Bottle or LCGP Universal resonators are absolutely acceptable.
Everyone that is looking for maximum power and sound response, though, should look at the Borla resonator. If nothing else, people will see the Borla on the side of the can and nod knowingly. That is always fun.

Pros
Borla has a great reputation for building good parts
It sounds great
It’s very free-flowing, for good performance

Cons
It’s expensive
You need a good exhaust system already to really take advantage of it

6. Best Tip-Style Exhaust Resonator: Borla 20248

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Why we like it: Borla is one of the biggest players in the exhaust scene, and the 20248 is a great, inexpensive way to take advantage of the Borla sound.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
Just like the DC Sports exhaust tip, the Borla resonating tip mounts to the end of your exhaust system and is super easy to install.
The difference is that the Borla is not a clamp-on. You must weld it in place, which means you also must get one with the same inlet diameter as your exhaust. It’s much easier to install than an inline weld-in component. However, you will still need to be comfortable welding stainless steel.
How Does It Sound?
Borla components always sound good. Their inline resonator is on our list too, and the reason both are on our list is because of how good they sound. The DC Sports exhaust tip gives a little bit of bass and takes away the raspiness. The Borla tip does the same thing, but better.
Our Take
The Borla exhaust tips have the same exact problem that the Borla inline resonator has. If you don’t have a nice exhaust system already, you won’t be getting the most from this product. You will be just as happy with the much cheaper DC Sports exhaust tip if you have a cheap system. There isn’t a massive difference in sound.
The looks and sound of the Borla tips can finish off a good system, though. If you are already in deep with modifications, they can be a great finishing touch.

Pros
It looks good
It sounds good
It’s easy to fit onto any system

Cons
You need a good exhaust to take advantage of it
It’s more expensive than most exhaust tips

7. Best Clamp-On Exhaust Resonator: LCGP Clamp-On Resonator

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Why we like it: The easy, slip-on design of this resonator makes it a very approachable project for anyone.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
There’s no reason it won’t fit any system. The fact that it clamps in instead of welds actually makes it the easiest inline component to install on our list. Clamps can leak over time, which is their biggest weakness, but if you don’t have a welder, then you don’t have much of an option.
Keep in mind that unlike weld-in resonators, when you cut out a section to install it you have to leave enough leftover to clamp onto. You’ll also need the space to slip it on, which can be annoying if you don’t drop the system.
How Does It Sound?
It sounds and acts just like the other LCGP resonator we have on our list; it just clamps on instead of welds on. The short of it is that it will reduce buzz, rasp, and drone, but it won’t lower the volume very much. You will get a slightly deeper tone, which can really improve the average factory system’s sound.
If you run it with a restrictive muffler, you might be disappointed with the performance. It is sound deadening in addition to a resonator, and with a restrictive muffler, you will lose a lot of bass tones.
Our Take
The big takeaway is that you can just clamp this in. Except for the bolt-on exhaust tip on our list, this is the easiest to install resonator for modified systems. You have to cut a section of your existing system out, but that’s the only step.
Like other inexpensive components, the quality is not going to be amazing. It does sound good for the price, and if you don’t know how to weld, you can still eliminate the drone and rasp from your ride. That alone makes it worth it for most.

Pros
It’s an inline resonator that you don’t have to weld on
It sounds good for the price
Inexpensive

Cons
Quality could be better
The clamps can leak as they loosen over time

8. Best Dual Exhaust Resonators: SLP Loud Mouth Pair

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Why we like it: Simply put, these Loud Mouth resonators sound amazing and come in a convenient pair for performance exhausts.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
They sell the Loud Mouth Bullets as a pair, making them perfect for people who have a true dual exhaust system. To be fair, there’s no reason that you can’t simply buy two of any other resonators, but the fact that they come as a pair really makes them a convenient thing to order.
You can tell that even though they are universal, they are clearly made for muscle cars and trucks. Their sizes range from 2.5” to 4”, with no small diameters to be found, and all of their advertisements feature Mustangs and Chargers.
How Does It Sound?
Loud and angry. With resonators like the Vibrant Ultra-Quiet, you get both a nice reduction in drone, and you reduce the decibel level a bit. The Loud Mouth, like the name implies, does not reduce the decibel level at all. It increases it.
The place you’ll notice it most is at wide-open throttle. They sound like any resonator at low RPMs, with more pronounced bass and a reduction in raspiness. When you get your foot in it, though, they come totally alive, and all bets are off.
Our Take
SLP makes high-quality products, and they are well known for making performance car parts. These bullet style resonators are no different. They are high quality, sound amazing, and will absolutely let everyone in your neighborhood know that you are pulling out of your driveway.
They are expensive, especially if you buy them individually. They are averagely priced for the quality, though, and come in cheaper than the Borla resonators they compete against. In our opinion, if you have a 4-cylinder or inline 6, get the Borla. V6 and V8 people should get the Loud Mouths.

Pros
They are loud
They are high-quality
They come as a pair

Cons
They are expensive
You will annoy your neighbors

9. Best Factory Mount Exhaust Resonator: Walker 21398 Resonator

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Why we like it: The standard brackets and flanges make the Walker 21398 an easy thing to install on almost any car.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
Walker makes resonators that are meant to replace factory resonators. That means that their resonators just bolt right in. They are flanged, they are the same size as factory components, and they are the right diameter for your car.
The hard part is making sure you get the right one for your car. The easiest way is to just use Walker’s own website. The one included here is for a large variety of GM vehicles, which are well known for surviving for years and years with rotted exhaust components as they travel the US North’s salted roads.
How Does It Sound?
It sounds like a stock exhaust system. If you remember how your exhaust sounded before you had to replace the resonator, that’s how it will sound.
Factory resonators are usually built to cancel as much sound as possible to improve driver comfort, which makes them terrible for modified cars. If you already are replacing the resonator, and want a better sounding exhaust, consider getting an aftermarket resonator like Vibrant Bottle. It can really improve the tone over stock.
Our Take
Walker components are easy to install, cheaper than ordering a replacement from the factory, and they work just fine. We just wish they’d make them out of stainless steel so they’d last longer. If your old system rotted out due to rust, nothing is stopping the Walker from rotting out too.

Pros
It’s inexpensive
It’s super easy to install
You don’t have to worry about fitment since they are designed for your vehicle

Cons
The material it’s made from could be better
It’s not universal

10. Best Resonator Alternative: DIY Quarter-Wave or J-Pipe

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Why we like it: If you are handy with a welder, you can get really great results building your own simple resonator using a simple length of bent pipe.
Editor’s Rating:

Will It Fit?
This solution is the most labor-intensive solution, and it requires the most fabrication skill. If you have the skills, then you can make a simple resonator for any vehicle.
Here’s how you do it:
Figure out what RPM range causes the worst drone
Figure out how many pulses per revolution your car makes (for 4 and 8 cylinder cars, it’s 4. A v6 might be 3 or 6. Don’t worry, there’s a lot of room for tuning after the fact)
Plug those into this equation: 343/(RPM * Pulses * 1/60)
Divide the answer by 4, and you’ll get ¼ of the wave. Hence the name “Quarter-Wave Resonator.”
Cut a length of pipe of that length, in meters, and weld a cap on one end. Weld the other end into your exhaust pipe. The length can be straight, bent, or really any shape. The J-pipe, a length of pipe shaped like a J, is a really common shape because of how easily it can be made to fit in any situation.
This PDF lays out the details, but most importantly it has some really helpful pictures on page 15.
How Does It Sound?
The only thing this resonator style does is cancel out noise at the specific frequency you build it for.
This is pretty much the only way to truly fine-tune an exhaust sound. If you love the sound of your car except for some unwanted noise at 2k RPM, this is the right solution.
Our Take
No one should be afraid of math or engineering. Doing a very simple and cheap upgrade like a capped J-pipe can be an enjoyable way to put some of those classes you were forced to take to work.
It’s definitely not for everyone, though, and that’s why we included it last on our list. It is roughly 100 times easier to just buy a pre-built resonator like the LCGP Clamp-On and just slip it in place and clamp it on. And honestly, that will sound just fine. If you really enjoy fabricating custom parts for your car, though, this project can be a really fascinating dive into exhaust sound theory.

Pros
It’s infinitely customizable
It can be very, very cheap
You can make it look however you want

Cons
It’s not a project for someone with no tools
It’s also not a project for someone that isn’t comfortable doing some hard research

The Big Guide to Exhaust Resonators
To really understand exhaust resonators, you need to know about the rest of an exhaust system. We touched on it a little bit up above, but here we’ll work from the heads to the tips.
The Exhaust System
An exhaust system’s main purpose is to take the hot gasses from the engine and get them out away from the car. Carbon-monoxide poisoning is no joke. Now, it is simple enough to do that with nothing but a length of pipe. That’s actually what “straight pipes” are, just lengths of metal pipe that go from the motor to somewhere away from the car.
Most people don’t appreciate ear-drum bursting noise, though, and the earth doesn’t appreciate unfiltered gasses being dumped into the atmosphere. That’s why most exhaust systems have other components.
Parts of an Exhaust System
The first component of the exhaust system is actually inside the engine. Once there is an explosion inside the cylinder, the piston pushes out the exhaust through an exhaust valve. That’s the part you don’t touch usually. The following are the components that most people will change during an upgrade. In order starting from the bumper:
The Manifold or Headers: A manifold, or headers, collect the exhaust from the individual cylinders and combine them into one outlet.
Y-Pipe: Cars with multiple manifolds/headers, but a single exhaust dump, will have a y-pipe that brings the two manifolds and combines them.
Sensors: There are often “downstream” sensors before the catalytic converter and “upstream” sensors after. Some cars only have one; some have four.
Catalytic Converter: A catalytic converter, often abbreviated as a “cat,” is a device that cleans the exhaust. It’s a neat process; you can read about it here. There are many aftermarket exhaust systems referred to as “cat-back” exhausts. That just means the part starts at the catalytic converter and replaces everything going back.
Resonators: Resonators change the tone by eliminating certain frequencies.
Mufflers: A muffler alters the sound of your exhaust the most. A good muffler will lower the volume without being restrictive, but most factory mufflers will sacrifice performance for noise reduction.
Exhaust Tip: Often, the system ends at the muffler, and the muffler will have its own tip. However, some cars have the muffler located further away from the exit or have mufflers with interchangeable tips. The tip is just the end of the pipe.
Do I Really Need a Resonator?
If you spend time at car shows or race events, you’ll notice many cars out there that don’t have specific exhaust components. Most dedicated track cars will just run straight pipes or open headers. Picture the cars in Mad Max. Most of those have an open header design where the entire exhaust system is just a few short pipes that stick out of the hood.
That might lead you to wonder if you really need a resonator at all, and the answer is that you don’t. Unlike catalytic converters, which are required in most states, or mufflers required to avoid noise violations, a resonator is not strictly necessary.
The Benefits of a Resonator
Open pipes are loud, make annoying sounds, and can drive you insane when they “drone” while you drive down the road. Adding a muffler is good, but often a muffler alone won’t get rid of raspiness or annoying drone. That’s where a resonator comes in.
You can also use a resonator to tune in a sound you like. The Borla resonators, for instance, will give your exhaust note more bass. The bass growl is associated with power, and making your car sound powerful is good.
It really helps to hear it for yourself, though, so here is a video of the Vibrant Ultra Quiet Resonator in action. We really like this example because it includes in-car audio, and it includes a before and an after. You can compare them directly and really hear how much of the high-frequency buzzing is eliminated after the install.
Speaking of installing them, let’s talk about mounting them to your system.
Welding, Flanges, and Clamping

We talk a lot about how different resonators install, so we will get in-depth on this section’s different options.
Flanged Fittings
Flanged fittings are the way factory and complete systems are held together. Most flanges either have two or three bolts and are usually gasketed. When you buy a cat-back exhaust that is meant to bolt to the factory catalytic converter, chances are it will be this style. Likewise, if you buy a factory replacement part, like the Walker on our list, it’ll bolt-on in this style.
Clamp-On
Technically all exhaust components can be clamped using various specialized no-weld clamps, but there are components like the LCGP clamp-on resonator we recommend that are specifically built to be clamped in place. They have cuts and flairs that allow them to easily slip over existing piping and be clamped down.
Like the DC Sport exhaust tip, others are just oversized and include bolts that lock the part onto a pipe. You can’t use the bolt style clamps on inline resonators since they leave large gaps between the bolts. It doesn’t matter if exhaust leaks out around the tip; it’s already away from the vehicle.
Weld-In
Here’s the truth about weld-in components. You don’t have to weld them in; there are many different ways to attach them. There are flush clamps, tapes, no weld glues, and all sorts of custom solutions. A shop may choose to flair the pipe so that the component easily slides into place for easier clamping or welding.
The reason they are called weld-in components is that that is what they are designed for. They are the same size as the pipe that they will be installed on, making it easy to line them up and weld.
Welding vs. Clamping
Since weld-in components can be welded or clamped on, you have to choose between the two methods. Although the biggest consideration is whether or not you have access to a welder, there are pros and cons.
Pros of Welding Instead of Clamping
Stronger
Less likely to leak
Allows a greater level of customization
Looks better
Pros of Clamping Instead of Welding
Much easier to install
Can be taken apart later without cutting
Can attach components that are a different material than the pipe
Premium exhaust systems will usually employ both methods. They will have a few places that clamp together to make installing the system easier since long, heavy pipes can be hard to work with. However, most components will be welded in place to improve durability and reduce the chance of leaking.
Enjoy That Sweet Music
A good exhaust note is what separates the cars that turn heads from the cars that get tickets. It’s such an important part of completing an automotive build, and it’s something a lot of people aren’t willing to take the time to learn about. Don’t be that person; we made this guide to make it easy to tune in the perfect sound for your vehicle. Grab or fab a resonator and enjoy being able to talk to your passenger as you cruise down the road. More

At seventy-five miles an hour, it only takes fifteen minutes for hearing to be damaged by the sound of the wind blowing past your head – even when wearing a helmet.
This damage is permanent. Close to half of Grand Prix riders have hearing loss, and 68% of young riders now wear ear protection. Still, close to one-fifth of riders are unaware of the permanent damage they are doing to their hearing. Not only do we need to change this behavior, but we also need to know the best options to do so without making life difficult.
To protect from hearing loss, earplugs are not only a good idea, but they are as essential as a helmet or leathers. Fortunately, modern technology has provided a range of suitable plugs for riders that can be comfortable, great at preventing hearing loss, and not cost a fortune. By having a basic understanding of what makes a good earplug, you can save money, protect your hearing, and not feel like you’ve got a couple of bananas jammed up in your ears.

Factors to Consider in Motorcycle Earplugs
We only need to keep in mind a few key factors to find good motorcycle earplugs. We need to know the different types, what they’re made from, how well they block noise, how comfortable they are to wear, and how much they will cost us.
Once we know how a set of earplugs fills these needs, we can decide if they are right for us.
Types
There are three main types of motorcycle earplugs available. Each has its pros and cons, which are explored further in our product review section. For now, it’s enough to know the basic forms you can expect to come across.
One-size-fits all: Generic sizing, but reusable
Custom molds: Mold to fit your unique ear shape with repeated use
Disposable: Generic sizing, only intended for limited use
Sound Dampening
Understanding how sound works is a complex matter, and we do discuss the basics in our full buyer’s guide. The important number to know is the Noise Reduction Rating (or NRR). This gives us an idea of how well our plugs remove the higher range of sounds. Some overseas brands prefer using the European Union’s Single Number Rating, or SNR, which has a different set of numbers. We have done our best to use NRR when we can.
An NRR of 10 or above will ensure that the most dangerous levels of sound from riding at high speed are removed, while earplugs with an NRR of 25 or more may also be useful for even louder activities such as shooting. However, earplugs with these higher numbers do not offer you extra riding time, as both earplugs are likely to decrease the loudness down to a similar level. Earplugs that do offer longer riding time are also those that block out noises from conversation.
Notably, active noise-canceling devices will not prevent hearing loss and are not alternatives to earplugs. You can read more about the problem with noise-canceling technology in our complete buyer guide.
Filtering
It’s good for the sound to be dampened, but it is even better when we don’t lose sounds at a lower decibel, like music in our helmet or conversations going on around us. The best earplugs use filtering technology to allow this to happen, without being ineffective at blocking the sounds that cause hearing loss.
Material
Besides the obvious need for some of us to avoid latex, there are a couple of useful things to know about how materials can be useful in creating good earplugs. Silicone-based earplugs get dirtier but are less likely to slip out of your ears.
Thermoplastics are easier to mold into smaller ear canals, while some earplugs are made of patented technologies. For further insight into earplug material, you can check out our full section below.
Lifespan and Cost
You can get foam earplugs for cents, and we have found the best value with the Mpow earplugs, but these plugs will only last a few trips at best, being wasteful. Spending a few dollars on a high-quality brand can give you a pair that will last you years, and only need cleaning with some soapy water.
If you choose one of these, of course, you want a good storage system. Luckily, a number of our products come with great little cases to keep on you at all times.
Comfort
While the material of earplugs plays a major role in comfort, many other factors come in. Because human ear canals come in all sorts of widths and lengths, the size of the earplug can be very important. Sets that include different sizes are more likely to provide long-term comfort. Some motorcycle earplugs, like the Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs, let you custom mold to your ear, making them the most comfortable option for extended trips.
Another factor in terms of comfort involves how easy it is to insert and remove plugs from your ears. Some earplugs are notoriously hard to remove without the help of a pair of tweezers. Cheap foam earplugs need shaping to fit properly. The easier an earplug is to insert and remove, the less likely they will slip out and the more likely they will create an effective seal for proper sound dampening.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle Earplugs 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle Earplugs: Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs

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Why we like it: These low-profile earplugs won’t get in the way of a conversation and are one of the easiest to insert and remove.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 15
Tips of S, M, and L sizes.
Made from Thermoplastics.
Comes with: Earplugs with three sets of tips, case, user guide.
It is understandable to be skeptical about any product that markets itself as “as seen on television.” So when we saw that the Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs had their start on the show “The Shark Tank,” we came at them from a place of caution. We didn’t need to worry.
The Vibes earplugs do a wonderful job of filtering out only the most dangerous wind noise while maintaining the ability to hear the world around us. Low-profile earplugs, you can only tell you are wearing them from a small stalk, which makes them easier to insert and remove.
Talking about insertions, the Vibes come with three different sizes of tips and are made from thermoplastics that make them quite comfortable and provide an adequate seal. When inserted correctly, they are not prone to slipping out or being pushed too far in.
Our only concern about these is the dampening. At the lower end of NRR we would recommend, the Vibes are not suited for riders on the race-track or hitting an unlimited highway. For the standard road user, however, these are a perfect choice. A reasonable price for a comfortable, high-quality pair of earplugs that don’t make you feel awkward keeping them in all day.

Pros
Comfortable tips with three different sizes.
Clear ability to hear conversations and music.
Low profile look while still being easy to remove.
Great value for money.

Cons
Not as useful at higher speeds.

2. Best Premium Motorcycle Earplugs: EAROS ONE High Fidelity Acoustic Filters

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Why we like it: Designed by a former director at MIT, and using medical-grade materials, these earplugs are the gold standard.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 17
Multiple tips to suit the ear canals of different sizes.
Made from ABS plastic and TPE.
Comes with: Earplugs, two pairs of tips (small and large), carry pouch.
The technology behind the EAROS ONE earplugs is outstanding. Designed by the former Director of MIT’s Acoustics & Vibrations Lab, they are made from medical-grade plastics in a facility just outside of New York. Their patented filtering core is second-to-none at ensuring a clear sound when talking, or listening to music, while removing the louder noises that cause hearing loss.
Of course, this alone would not be enough to qualify for the best motorcycle earplugs. These are also one of the more comfortable earplugs available, especially as the tips come in two separate sizes. They do not impact the air-pressure felt (no popping!) and the thermoplastic polymer (TPE) they are made from does not cause itchiness or sweating. You can easily wear these for over 6 hours without feeling discomfort.
The EAROS ONE earplugs do come with an app but, unlike the EarDial earplugs, only for iPhone. They are also one of the more high-profile earplugs, easy to see (but not sticking out from your head). They come with a storage pouch that isn’t as protective as some of the aluminum cases available but the plugs themselves are sturdy enough that this is not an issue.
The EAROS ONE earplugs are expensive, nearly twice as much as the Vibes. In our opinion, they are worth the extra investment if you can afford it.

Pros
Designed by MIT experts.
Made from medical-grade TPE instead of Silicone, for extra comfort.
Two sizes for tips.
Made in the USA.

Cons
Pouch not the safest storage from damage.
High-Profile look.

3. Best Ceramic Motorcycle Earplugs: NoNoise for Motorsport’s Ear Protection

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Why we like it: One of the few earplugs to use a ceramic core, they have a larger attenuation at higher decibels.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: Unknown (SNR 21)
One size fits all.
Made from thermoplastics and ceramics.
Comes with: Earbuds, aluminum case.
If you are the motorcyclist looking for quality earbuds that can handle higher speeds, then we highly recommend the NoNoise for Motorsports. NoNoise has a range of earplugs for every context, each designed specifically with that purpose in mind. Knowing this, they aim for a specific level of attenuation, which they reach using a ceramic core that lasts longer than other earplugs. In this case, the magic number is an SNR of 21, which offers as high as 29dB of difference.
While most of the quality earplugs can survive for close to a year, the workmanship and sturdy materials make for a pair of earplugs that will still do the job three years later. This greatly makes up for the higher price point. To ensure they last, the pack also comes with a nifty aluminum case for safe-keeping when not in your ears.
A low-profile pair, these can be a little difficult to remove from larger ear-canals and unfortunately only come as “one size fits all.” If you are already aware of a fit problem with other earplugs, it might be better to look at the Vibes instead.
For long-lasting earplugs that can handle the louder noises of high-speed racing, the NoNoise for Motorsports is highly recommended.

Pros
Ceramic core allows for greater attenuation of higher decibels.
Longer-lasting than most earplugs.
Nifty aluminum case.

Cons
Difficult to remove.
One size fits all.

4. Best App-Enabled Motorcycle Earplugs: EarDial HiFi Earplugs

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Why we like it: With a useful phone app, and small keyring-case, these earplugs are low-profile and high quality in every sense.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 11
One size fits all.
Made from clear silicone
Comes with: Earplugs, aluminum container, luminescent sticker, and link to mobile applications.
Being the first set of earplugs to come with mobile applications for both iPhone and Android, the highly-marketed EarDial Earplugs can be an appealing choice for the computer-minded. The applications register the sound around you and let you know how long you can safely travel both with and without the earplugs. Knowing just how effective these are is pretty impressive.
A low NRR means these are not great for racing but are surprisingly still quite effective at high speeds on the road. This may be due to the snug fit, sitting slightly deeper into the ear canal than others.
While this size may mean larger-eared users may find them slipping out, or hard to remove, most people find them comfortable and secure. Made of clear silicone, these are very low-profile, and most people won’t even know you are wearing them.
The earplugs come with an aluminum container with a cool luminescent sticker to help you easily find them in a dark jacket pocket or bag. It’s a good thing since they don’t take up much space at all. You could even keep them on your keyring.
It should be mentioned that if you do face a problem (from discovering the size is a problem or the odd broken container), the customer service for EarDial is beyond par. Some customers even find themselves talking to the CEO directly.
For low-profile earplugs and a nifty mobile application, the EarDial Earplugs are worth considering.

Pros
Low-profile design.
Keyring carry case with a glow-in-the-dark sticker.
Easy-to-use mobile application.
Great customer service.

Cons
Don’t always fit comfortably.
Some cases have broken.
Made from silicone.

5. Best Budget Motorcycle Earplugs: Plugfones Basic Earplug-Earbud Hybrid

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Why we like it: If you want good sound reduction while also listening to music, these can be an inexpensive option.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 26dB
One size fits all.
Made from Silicone.
Comes with: Earbuds, pair of earplug tips
Without a doubt, you are making a compromise when you buy the Plugfones hybrid. The earplugs are effective at blocking noise, indiscriminately removing all loud sounds, while also removing any ability to have a conversation while they are in.
That’s okay, of course, because these are not designed for conversation. These are for music. And while the earbud doesn’t provide as beautiful a sound as you might get from a good pair of Bose earphones, they do let you listen to good-quality music while still protecting yourself from hearing loss.
The earbuds are well-protected from damage and it is difficult to damage any of the connections. For a premium, you can purchase a pair that includes active noise-canceling, with BlueTooth and a noise-isolating mic that works quite well for taking hands-free phone calls.
A decent pair of earbuds and a noise-killing pair of earplugs in one, the Plugfones hybrid is a compromise well worth making.

Pros
Can listen to music while blocking out the damaging noise.
Tough material makes them hard to break.
Multiple options including premium BlueTooth and easy-access control.

Cons
They have cords.
Indiscriminate sound-blocking.

6. Best Hypoallergenic Motorcycle Earplugs: Alpine MotoSafe Race Reusable Ear Plugs

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Why we like it: Quality sound filtering from a long-lasting earplug made with sustainable, hypoallergenic material.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 17dB
One size fits all.
Made from patented material.
Comes with: Earbuds, pouch, tool, user guide.
To get a designed-for-riding pair of earplugs that are made from latex-free, silicone-free material that is sturdy and effective in its sound-dampening, is not something you would expect for under twenty-five dollars. However, that is exactly what Alpine offers with its MotoSafe Race Reusable Ear Plugs.
With a respectable NRR and made with a patented AlpineThermoShape recipe that is both comfortable and safe for all skin types, these sturdy plugs are low-profile thanks to the use of a clever “insert/remove” tool that saves on the need for intrusive tabs.
Unfortunately, these earplugs are “one size fits all,” which means we can’t say they are suitable for every ear. They are not suitable for larger ear canals, which they easily slip from, and can be uncomfortable on long trips even when inserted properly.
When allergies concern you, the safest option for your ears is the Alpine MotoSafe earplugs.

Pros
Designed specifically for motorsports.
Hypoallergenic material.
Useful insertion tool.

Cons
Not suitable for large ear canals.
Uncomfortable for long periods.

7. Most Comfortable Motorcycle Earplugs: Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs

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Why we like it: Made to mold to your ear, and includes multiple sizes of tips, these are the most comfortable earplugs available.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 31dB
Molded fit, with tips of S, M, and L sizes and M foam alternative.
Made from Thermoplastics.
Comes with: Moldable earpieces, sound plug, four sets of tips, carry case.
When comfort is the priority, and no earplug seems to fit properly, you can rest easy knowing that Decibullz will have you covered. By following an easy guide (or linked-to video), you can mold the earpieces to fit the unique curves of your ear while using the same high-quality core. The custom-molded earplugs come with three differently sized tips plus a pair of foam tips for higher attenuation.
Not that you will need it. The standard core of the Decibullz has an NRR higher than anything short of the foam plugs, making them as good for shooters as for riders. This comes with the negative of it being slightly harder to hear conversations or music, but the filtering is better than we expected.
Obviously, these are not low-profile plugs, but that doesn’t mean they are ugly. In fact, they come in a range of colors. The Decibullz custom-molded Earplugs would be the ideal choice for child riders and those who find earplugs synonymous with discomfort.

Pros
Custom molding to your ear.
Tips come in multiple sizes.
One of the highest NRR ratings out there.

Cons
May take multiple attempts to mold correctly.
May block out more noise than you want.

8. Least Visible Motorcycle Earplugs: ClearPlugs High Fidelity Invisible Ear Plugs

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Why we like it: Lowest profile earplugs possible. Even close up it is hard to tell they are there.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: Unknown (25 SNR).
Small and large size.
Made from Silicone.
Comes with: Earplugs in two sizes, aluminum case.
In perhaps the most impressive physical design, the ClearPlugs High Fidelity Invisible Ear Plugs are both extremely low-profile and easy to remove. Because they come in both small and large sizes, they are also more likely to fit than many other low-profile choices.
The ClearPlugs offer good sound dampening while not removing the ability to hear conversations and can handle louder noises easily. They come in an aluminum case, though it isn’t anywhere near as well-designed as the plugs themselves, which are often prone to breaking.
It is a disappointment that these plugs are made from silicone, which makes them a little easier to get dirty and slip out of ears. With the two sizes and great design, however, this is not as big an issue as it could be.
For low profile plugs without any frills, the middle-of-the-road ClearPlugs look good, do a great job, and don’t cost a fortune.

Pros
Extremely low profile.
Clear ability to hear conversations and music.
Surprisingly easy to remove.

Cons
Silicone material.
The aluminum case is flimsy and prone to breaking.

9. Most Customisable Motorcycle Earplugs: EarPeace Motorcycle Ear Plugs

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Why we like it: These plus offer different filter cores which you can switch out to match changing driving environments and conditions.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 11-19.
Small and large size.
Made from Silicone.
Comes with: Earplugs in two sizes, aluminum case.
While many of the great earplugs in this list offer different sized tips, only the EarPeace Motorcycle Ear Plugs offer different cores. This means you can choose a different filter for city driving than you would be cruising at faster speeds out in the great beyond. Just keep the spares in the aluminum case that holds multiple sets for just this purpose.
These plugs are low-profile but can be a little difficult to remove. While comfortable at first, long rides will come with some discomfort due to the silicone manufacturing.
If you are a rider that finds themselves in constantly changing settings, the EarPeace earplugs will be cheaper than buying three different sets of other plugs.

Pros
Multiple cores, suiting different roads.
Comes in different tip sizes.
The aluminum case holds multiple sets.

Cons
Silicone material makes it less comfortable in the long term.
Sometimes difficult to remove.

10. Best Disposable Motorcycle Earplugs: Mpow Super Soft Sleeping Earplugs

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Why we like it: For the casual rider, who wants to block out almost everything and then discard the plugs, these are the cheapest option that still works.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Noise Reduction Rating: 32dB
One size fits all.
Made from Polyurethane foam.
Comes with: 60 Earplugs, an aluminum case that holds one pair.
When you’ve spent all your money on the bike itself and aren’t interested in making conversation at the gas pump, then you can skip all the fancy features and just concentrate on protecting your hearing. In this case, you don’t need to look further than standard foam earplugs.
Mpow offers the best bang for the buck, with 60 foam earplugs at a budget price. With each plug being good for about three rides, you are looking at less than ten cents a ride.
The noise dampening is indiscriminate and there is nothing low-profile about having a couple of Cheetos in your ears, but they do the job better than anything else and this is what matters. It’s a bonus that they are quite comfortable, even for long periods.
Not the greatest choice for the environment, and more of a “sound blocker” than a “sound filter,” but by being cheap, effective, and no-frills, you don’t need to look any further than Mpow Super Soft earplugs.

Pros
Inexpensive and blocks out the most noise.
Comfortable to wear for long periods.
One pair can last multiple uses.

Cons
Indiscriminate with noise reduction.
High profile.
Environmentally unfriendly as disposable products.

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle Earplugs for 2020

Your health is not something to mess with and, with permanent hearing loss being a guarantee for anyone who spends time riding at high speed, it is vital to invest in a good pair of earplugs.
To know what makes a pair of earplugs effective, it is important to have a basic understanding of how hearing works, what we can do to protect it, and how we can do so without giving up comfort or dollars.
A Crash Course in Sound and Hearing
While doctors can spend a decade in training to get a full understanding of how our ears work and how sound affects them, there are only a few things we need to understand to make the right choices.
Having a basic understanding of how the ear works and what loud noises can do helps us better appreciate how bad it is when things go wrong. By understanding concepts like Threshold Shift and Noise Reduction Rating, we can make informed decisions about our ears.
The Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear

The human ear is made of three parts:
The outer ear – The fleshy bits we see, which help direct sounds from the outside world into our ear canal. These sounds then hit the tympanic membrane (like the skin of a drum, which is why we often call it the eardrum).
The middle ear – The tympanic membrane vibrates the bones of the middle ear, like a drum kit in reverse. These are the smallest bones in the human body.
The inner ear – The vibrations of the bones then move into the inner ear, a round tube of liquid and hairs, called the Cochlea. It is the hairs in the Cochlea, shaking from the vibrations, that turn sound into electricity, sent by nerves into the brain. It is these same hairs that can be overcome by vibrations too powerful, damaged and killed by sounds that are too loud.
For more information about how sounds turn from vibrations in the air to ideas in our heads, check out this interesting video from the National Institute of Health.
How Much Sound Can We Handle?
The “loudness” of sounds is measured in decibels (dB), which is a “logarithmic scale.” This means that a 90dB sound is ten times louder than a sound that is 80dB. This is important to consider when we learn that experiencing 110dB for only two minutes can do permanent damage to your hearing.
How Much Sound Does Riding a Motorcycle Make?
It might come as a surprise to learn that the sound of a motorcycle itself isn’t that big a deal when it comes to our hearing. The louder Harley Davidsons make about 60-80dB of sound, while most of us ride bikes that make sounds less than ten percent the loudness of a standard car.
The problem with sound for us riders is “Wind Sound,” the noise and pressure that rushes past our face, even despite windshields and the best motorcycle helmets.
The University of Southampton has worked out that you only need to be riding at 40mph to reach 85dB and once you reach 70mph, you are experiencing noises over 106dB. At this point, you can experience permanent hearing loss in only three minutes.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is caused in two different ways. First, the higher-decibels cause damage to the fine hairs inside our inner ear, permanently damaging them. Secondly, a phenomenon called “Threshold Shift” occurs, in which our brain tries to adapt to the louder sounds.
When we no longer experience these, the brain is unable to return to prior functioning. While this is sometimes temporary, it is often not. The louder the noise, the more likely the shift is to become permanent.
Hearing loss is also accumulative. When you lose some ability, it will never come back. And the next three minutes will cause just as much damage as the last (except, because you have less remaining, it will cause a larger percentage of damage).
Some people think helmets, because they protect our face from the wind, must also protect our ears from wind noise. The reality is that helmets may be making things worse.
How Do Earplugs Work?
Earplugs are designed to remove the louder “Wind Sound” alone, leaving the other sounds of the road (sirens, horns, etc.) intact, as well as not affecting our hearing when standing still. Think of it as a glass of beer, earplugs just taking off the head that is spilling over the sides, leaving only the good stuff behind.
What Is the Noise Reduction Rating?
The Noise Reduction Rating is a standard used by the US Environmental Protection Agency to measure the dangers of noise on hearing. It isn’t directly linked to decibels – a rating of 15 does not mean earplugs block exactly 15dB of sound – but it does help indicate how useful hearing protection is.
Internationally, the European Union uses the Single Number Rating (or SNR), which uses different calculations again.
It is fair to say that the greater the NRR, the better your earplugs are at blocking noise. But blocking noise below 80dB is neither necessary nor useful, as you may not be as aware of your surroundings. We recommend using earplugs that have a rating of 10-20 for normal usage and about 15-30 for high-speed riding.
The Secret Additional Benefit of Reducing Wind Noise
While decreasing wind noise below the safe decibel level prevents hearing loss, earplugs offer another benefit that isn’t talked about as often as it should be: decreased fatigue.
Removing the frequencies of wind noise, regardless of how many decibels of noise drop, removes a constant sound that is tiring for many riders. It is easy to become distracted when tired, and fatigue is a major factor in rider-caused motorcycle accidents. Earplugs, at any speed, decrease the risks associated with fatigue.
Common Motorcycle Earplug Materials
Modern earplugs can be made from a range of materials, from plastic foam to silicone and even patented thermoplastics. Each come with their own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to think about the material used to make the earplugs you are looking at.
Foam
When we say foam, we aren’t talking about shaving cream. Most foam earplugs are generally made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC. PVC is a major source of phthalates, which are harmful to child health and bad for the environment.
On the other hand, quality foam products like the Mpow earplugs are made from Polyurethane, which doesn’t suffer the same problems.
Foam plugs dampen sound dramatically, and rarely have an NRR under 30. However, they are “indiscriminate” with their blocking, decreasing all sound. This means they are highly effective, but not useful if you want to hold a conversation or listen to music. They also run the risk of making it difficult to hear emergency sirens.
Foam plugs are designed as “one size fits all” and are squeezed into shape. They usually stick out quite a bit from our ears and do not do well past a few uses.
Silicone
Silicone rubber is a strong plastic that is non-toxic, firm, and waterproof, which makes it great for seals. It is also antimicrobial and is used for implants. However, being so firm, it does not mold very well once it has set and can become sticky and dirty quite easily. A silicone earplug is great when it fits well and terrible when it doesn’t.
Thermoplastics
Thermoplastics are a mix of a range of different polymers and are often specially made for companies. Alpine earplugs use a patented AlpineThermoShape plastic that only exists in their brand.
Thermoplastics are easier to mold and can therefore produce better seals with larger or smaller ear canals. They can also be far more comfortable than the harder silicone plugs. However, Thermoplastics are expensive materials and do not have the same lifespan as silicone.
What About Music?
While it is important to note that some jurisdictions make listening to music illegal while you ride, many others allow this freedom. Listening to some cruising tunes as you ride is an enjoyable experience and choosing the right plugs can play an important role in keeping those songs coming.
While there are good hybrid plugs/earbuds like Plugfones out there, the best earplugs don’t filter out music from Bluetooth speakers and can be just as effective.
The Problem With Noise Cancelling Technology
There is nothing inherently wrong with noise-canceling devices. In fact, by encouraging users to turn down their headphones, noise-canceling devices decrease hearing loss caused by having your music up too loud. The noise of conversation is no longer a distraction, so you don’t feel the need to turn up the headphones.
What they do not do, however, is dampen the sound that already exists. Modern noise-canceling headphones and earbuds use frequencies that “cancel” sounds from outside by creating a “balancing noise.” The noise still exists, and still enters our ears, we just don’t register it. At high decibels, this means that our ears are still experiencing damage, and exposure will still cause hearing loss.
To use noise-canceling earbuds to combat wind noise would be to simply add yet another source of 100dB noise. You wouldn’t hear the wind anymore, but it would be doing as much, or maybe even more, damage to your hearing.
Earplugs and the Law
It is a terrible truth that, in some parts of the United States, wearing earplugs is against the law. Fortunately, each day brings good news as more states realize the importance.
Some states do not allow music, while others allow it only in one ear. It is important to look up the law in your specific jurisdiction to ensure that you are doing the right thing. As of 2020, no jurisdiction directly insists on the wearing of earplugs.
Final Thoughts
It is a sad thing to learn that over one-quarter of riders deliberately avoid using ear protection, and less than half use it regularly. Some of this has to come down to believing that the only ear protection available will cut all noises and involves wearing bulky, uncomfortable plugs that sit awkwardly under your helmet.
By providing a guide to the best motorcycle earplugs out there, we hope to change these numbers while helping everyone make the best decision for their health and safety. More

It’s risky to open and close your car doors in a parking lot, especially when it’s jam-packed full of cars! Though dents and scratches on a car door tend to be small, accidentally hitting the car parked next to you can end up costing quite a lot to repair.
But don’t worry! Car door edge guards are an excellent feature to add to your vehicle to protect yours and your neighbor’s car from dings or scrapes. Here’s everything you need to know.

Factors to Consider When Buying Car Door Edge Guards
In the following guide, you’ll learn more about what to consider when purchasing car door edge guards and the different types of products out there for you to choose from.
Types of Car Door Edge Guards
Car door edge guides come in two main varieties: adhesive and cling. Here’s a little more about each.
Adhesive
These types of edge guards are applied to your car doors with a long-lasting, powerful tape. They adhere to car doors like a sticker would, making them generally easy and straightforward to install.
The material typically comes packaged as a roll that you can then cut to fit the length of your vehicle’s doors. It can also look like a single piece of plastic or soft bumper material.
Cling
Cling edge guards are made of thick, tough rubber material that hugs tightly to the sides of your car doors. The rubber is fairly flexible, so it can stretch easily around any corners or curves along the door’s edges. They can be made of metal or plastic, and they have small grooves that fit easily onto car doors for a secure fit.
Key Considerations When Shopping for Car Door Edge Guards
Now you know the different types of guards, here are the specific criteria you’ll want to keep in mind when evaluating products from our review list.
Length & Size
To ensure that there is minimal waste, it is important that you know how much you need to buy for your vehicle. Edge guards can measure as short as a couple of feet or as long as 30+ feet.
There are also options to buy car door edge guards as a single strip to minimize the amount of effort you need to put into installing them on your car. All you need to do is determine whether or not you want to protect just the driver’s side door of your vehicle or if you want to protect all of your doors.
Compatibility
When looking over your choices, it is also important for you to check that it is compatible with your specific type of vehicle. There are types of car door edge guards that will not work on certain types of trucks, cars, or SUVs because of the model’s specific door design.
Thoroughly look over the dimensions and sizes of the doors for your specific make and model. This information can be found in the owner’s manual for your car. You can match the information you find with the type(s) of car door edge guards you’re considering purchasing. We also highlight compatibility in each of our product reviews.
Material
Quality door guards will be made of either plastic or rubber material so that they can best absorb impacts. If you’re feeling iffy about plastic car door edge guards, don’t fret. Though they may look breakable, this material is actually designed to handle being hit with lots of pressure, it’s the same type of plastic that many front and rear car bumpers are made of.
Car door edge guards that are made with rubber have the advantage of being more pliable than plastic. This means that it can bounce more easily off of a neighboring car door without impacting it too heavily.
Style
This one’s up to you and your specific tastes. Door guards, however subtle in color they are, will alter the look of your car. So if you don’t want the look to be too outlandish, black or clear trims may be your best choice. However, if you want to add a little splash of color, there are some car door edge guards that will offer a variety of color options.
With these factors in mind, here are the best car door edge products available.

Top 8 Best Car Door Edge Guards 2020
1. Best Overall Car Door Edge Guards: MATCC Car Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: MATCC car door edge guards are made to fit virtually any vehicle and can even be used as boating edging!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 4m or 10m
Material: Rubber/Vinyl
Type: Cling
Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
The MATCC edge guards are compatible with most vehicles because they can be cut to fit the exact size of your car doors. Just pay close attention to the length you get with a single purchase, as you may need to buy multiple packs. If so, you may prefer to opt for the MATCC 10m option.
Other Noteworthy Features
Not only are these edge guards waterproof, but they also reduce noise and are corrosion- and high-temperature resistant. They are great insulators, effectively controlling the temperature inside your car, so you don’t have to constantly fiddle with the AC. The trim also keeps water, dust and/or dirt from getting into your car through the gaps between the door and the car frame.
Installation
MATCC car door edge guards are easy to install, just press the rubber material to the edge of the door, and it easily slides into place! If there is extra material hanging off the edge, simply trim it off with a knife or a pair of scissors and mold the ends to the door. People have also used them on rooftop windows and as boating edging!
PRO-TIP: there is exposed metal at the ends of this material, and it may hurt your fingers if you’re not careful during installation. You might also find it too difficult to cut with a regular pair of scissors, so use something stronger (like wire cutters) to do the job.
Customer Service Info
Your purchase comes with a 100%, risk-free warranty for one full year. Simply contact the seller if you have any issues with the product, and they will respond to you within 24 hours during the workweek.

Pros
Compatible with most vehicles
Waterproof, noise-reducing, and corrosion/high-temperature resistant
Easy to install
Can be used on sunroofs and even as boating edging
100%, risk-free warranty for one year

Cons
Ends have exposed metal that can hurt fingers during installation
Regular scissors may not cut through material properly

2. Best Premium Car Door Edge Guards: Winunite Car Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: Though you might need to work harder to close your doors once these are installed, the thick rubber material not only protects your car from scratches, chips, and rust but also provides a wonderful, noise-canceling quality to your doors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 4.8 or 9.7m
Material: Rubber
Type: Cling
Colors: White or Black
Compatible Vehicles
This will not fit every vehicle, especially ones that already have thick rubber strips in their car door designs. Instead, they work best on cars that have wide door gaps.
The Tesla X, Tesla Y, Tesla 3, VW Passat, Ford Edge, BMW X3, 2018 BMW X5, Chevy Tahoe/Camaro, GMC Denali, 2019/2020 Silverado, Volvo S60L, 2016 CRV, 2017 Camry, 2019 Niro, 2020 Mazda 3 and Firebird vehicles are some examples of non-compatible vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Winunite edge guards are made of a thick strand of rubberized material that is designed to protect your car doors from scratches, paint chips, and rust. Like the MATCC car door edge guards, these are noise canceling. You may need to close your doors with a little more oomph because of its thick design, though.
Installation
These edge guards bend easily into the contours of your doors. They can be installed on any of your car doors as well as on back hatch doors, trunk edges, hoods, and tailgates. Some have even installed them on the edges of their aluminum boat.
Be sure to pull out the exposed end clips at either side of the material with a pair of scissors. It is recommended that you tap it with a rubber mallet to ensure a snug fit.
Customer Service Info
With your purchase comes lifetime service support. If you have any problems with the product, you can contact customer service, and they’ll assist you in any way they can.

Pros
Two color and size options
Made with thick, noise-canceling rubber material
Can install on car doors, hatches, trunks, hoods, and tailgates
Purchase comes with lifetime service support
Can return for a full refund

Cons
May need to use more force to close doors properly
Not compatible with vehicles that already have thick, rubber strips in their design

3. Best UV Resistance: Eytool Car Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: Eytool Car Door Edge Guards stand up well to washing and waxing once they’ve been properly installed. They are also waterproof, anti-aging, and UV-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about them wearing out too quickly.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 5m
Material: Rubber
Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
Colors: Black, White, Clear
Compatible Vehicles
If you drive a car with door thickness that is more than 2mm, this is not the product for you. It is especially important for you to check your vehicle’s door edge thickness if you drive a truck or a van, as this brand may be incompatible with larger vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Eytool Car Door Edge Guards are made with a heavy-duty urethane that stands up well to washing and waxing. In addition to this, it is waterproof, anti-aging, UV-resistant, and does not tend to stain or turn yellow over time.
If you purchase the clear version, you may find that the seal looks like an iridescent purple when viewed from different angles, which may stand out more on certain car colors than others.
Installation
This car door edge guard installs with direct placement. Just be sure that you install the edge guard and trim to the length of your car door before you remove the protective strip for the adhesive. If this is not done properly, the adhesive will not stick down very well, and it may wrinkle around the edges.

Pros
Three color options: black, white, and clear
Waterproof, anti-aging and UV-resistant
Stands up well to washing and waxing

Cons
Not compatible with car door thicknesses exceeding 2mm
May wrinkle at the edges or come off if not installed properly

4. Best Budget Car Door Edge Guards: 3M Door Edge Protection Film

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Why we like it: If you want your car to look as if nothing is there after installing car door edge guards, this is the perfect choice for you. Its clear coating is stain-resistant, and the look is virtually invisible to the eye.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 3m
Material: Tape
Type: Adhesive
Color: Clear
Compatible Vehicles
This adhesive will work on most vehicles. It is perfect for you if you drive a 2-door sedan.
Other Noteworthy Features
3M Door Edge is made from the same material the professionals use to install adhesive edge guards at car dealerships. They are more or less invisible to the eye, and the clear coating is stain-resistant.
Once they are applied, you won’t have to do anything more to care for them. Just be sure to install them properly.
Installation
You won’t need any tools to install this. Just make sure to thoroughly clean the outside and inside edges of your door (as well as your hands) before installing. Otherwise, you may end up with dirt and/or finger marks on the tape. If that happens, you’ll have to start over with a new pack.
The tape can be easily removed by picking up one of its corners and pulling it firmly off at a 90-degree angle.

Pros
Compatible with most vehicles
Made from the same material used by professionals
Clear coating is stain-resistant and virtually invisible to the eye
No tools needed for installation

Cons
You only get one shot to install them properly: everything must be clean!

5. Most Flexible: Besteek Car Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: Like Eytool Car Door Edge Guards, Besteek edge guards fit snugly to every contour of your car doors with its U-channel design and double-sided adhesive tape.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 10m
Material: Rubber
Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
These edge guards work best for door edges that are up to 2mm in thickness. Please check your owner’s manual if you drive a truck or van as the Besteek car door edge guards may not be compatible with the design of larger vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Besteek protects your car from dents, chipping paint, and rust. The flexible molding means it will easily hug every contour of your car door. In addition to this, the large length of material you get with your purchase means that you will most likely be able to cover the edges of your entire cab!
Installation
You can install this edge guard without any tools. The U-channel design will easily fit over the edge of your car doors. Adding to this, the double-sided adhesive tape ensures that the fitting is secure; just make sure that you put the sticky part of the strip on the inside of the door edge. It is just as easy to remove should you wish.
Please be aware that the glue will wear over time, so after approximately one year of use, you will need to replace it.
Customer Service Info
You can get a full refund or replacement if you are not 100% satisfied with this product.

Pros
Flexible molding and U-channel design ensures a snug fit
Large length of material provided to cover all car doors (for many vehicles)
Installation is possible without using tools
Can get a full refund or replacement if not 100% satisfied

Cons
Will wear down after about 1 year

6. Most Durable Edge Guards: Strongman U-Shape Trim Protector & Guard Strip

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Why we like it: The Strongman U-Shape Trim Protector is built to last. Made with a high concentration of rubber and with 37% EPDM means they won’t wear quickly.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 5m
Material: Rubber
Type: Cling
Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
Strongman is made to universally fit virtually any vehicle. Just be sure to have the right tools to cut it down to the appropriate size. If you are unsure about whether or not it will fit with your car door edges, make sure to check your owner’s manual before purchasing.
Other Noteworthy Features
Made with a high concentration of rubber and with 37% EPDM means that it will last a very long time. The U-shaped design is made to stand up against harsh weather conditions. Adding to this, Strongman edge guards are fully waterproof.
Installation
The steel spring clips along the inner part of the edge guards work a bit like u-shaped wire staples, ensuring a tight fit. However, there is a chance that the metal grips may leave a permanent mark on the paint. To avoid this, make sure to look over the cut ends of the strips you prepare for each door before installing it. If there are no steel clips exposed, you’re good to go!
You might also find it difficult to cut with normal scissors. A 6” diagonal cutter or wire cutters may work better.
Customer Service Info
Strongman products have a lifetime guarantee. You can return this product for a full refund if you are not happy with your purchase.

Pros
Universal fit means it will install on most vehicles
High rubber concentration and 37% EPDM ensures it is long-lasting
Fully waterproof

Cons
Steel spring clips can damage paint if left exposed during installation

7. Most Stylish: Status High Glossy Slim Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: The Status High Glossy Slim Door edge guards will surely make your car stand out! Their sleek style and color choices will give your car a more modern look.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: Front Guards (9.5 x 2.3cm); Back Guards (8.2 x 2.0cm)
Material: Metal
Type: Adhesive
Colors: Black, Silver, White or Metallic Silver
Compatible Vehicles
These bumper guards are super durable and will fit on any vehicle.
Other Noteworthy Features
These do not cover the entire length of your car door. You get two front door and two rear door protector bumper guards with your purchase. Since they are fairly thick, they work well to stop minor dings that thinner guards may not.
Be aware that they are meant to protect your car from damage, so you will still need to open your doors with caution to ensure that you don’t damage any cars you park next to.
Installation
All you need to do is attach the door guards to the desired place on your car door’s edge with the 3M auto tape provided. Keep your car from getting wet for 24 hours after installation. It is possible to remove them, but you will need to do so with care so as not to peel the paint.

Pros
Made to fit all vehicles
Comes with 2 front and 2 rear door guards
3M auto tape provided for installation

Cons
Keeps only your car door safe from dings and scratches

8. EJ’s Super Car Door Edge Guards

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Why we like it: The plastic material is extremely durable, and because it is protected from UV rays, it won’t peel or fall off easily from your car.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 4.8m
Material: Plastic
Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
Color: Clear
Compatible Vehicles
Like the Strongman U-Shape Trim Protector & Guard Strip, this is made to fit most vehicles. Just be sure to check your car’s specific dimensions in your owner’s manual before purchasing.
Other Noteworthy Features
The plastic u-shape material is super durable, protected from UV rays, and easily hugs the contours of your car doors. This ensures that your edge guards will last a long time without peeling, falling off, or damaging your paint.
It is important to note that the plastic may change color slightly after being exposed to rainfall, but that won’t negatively affect its durability. It is also smaller than other comparable products, so they may not protect your car as effectively as other brands.
Installation
To ensure that it adheres correctly to your car, you need to thoroughly clean the car door edges with soap and water and wait for it to fully dry before installing.
Cut the material to the length you need. Pull a small part of the adhesive backing off one edge of the material. As you peel the adhesive backing off the inside of the edge guard, press the u-shape firmly into the car door. Some bubbles may form under the tape when you’re installing it. You can pop them with a needle to help the edge guard adhere more securely to the door.

Pros
Made to fit most vehicles
Material is UV protected and super durable
Clear color makes it invisible to the eye

Cons
Plastic may discolor after rain
Smaller than other comparable brands

Guide to Buying the Best Car Door Edge Guards

Now you’re familiar with the best car door edge guards available, here’s our detailed guide, with more to consider, installation help, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Important Factors to Consider in Car Door Edge Guards
Make sure to properly measure the length of material you’ll need to ensure that you buy the right amount. This will depend on whether you only want to protect the driver’s side door or if you want to protect all of your vehicle’s doors. You’ll also need to make sure that the product you choose is compatible with your vehicle as certain car door edge guards may not universally fit all car types.
The best door guards will be made of either plastic or rubber because they absorb the pressure of impacts the best. For a more subtle look, choose car door edge guards that are black or clear in color.
Benefits of Using Car Door Edge Guards
Protects Your Car
Car door edge guards effectively prevent and/or reduce accidental door dents and scratches to your vehicle. This means that you won’t have to break the bank to repair small (but very costly) damages to your car.
Protects Neighboring Cars
We’ve all been there: you’re in a crowded parking lot and trying to get out of your car without hitting the vehicle next to you. Your hand may slip, or maybe there’s a sudden gust of wind that sends your car door flying into the car next to you.
If you have car door edge guards installed, it greatly reduces the chances that any marks, scratches, or scuff marks are left behind, making getting in and out of your car less stressful.
Increases Resale Value
When you own a car, you need to take good care of it in case you want to sell it in the future. It’s not just about keeping your engine intact; it’s also about ensuring that the interior and exterior of your car look good.
Damaged doors can lead to rusting, and fixing dents and scratches in the paint can cost a lot of money. Door guards not only reduce or prevent the chances of your car doors getting damaged, but they also give your car a sleek, finished look that potential buyers may like.
Types of Car Door Edge Guards to Choose From
You have the choice between adhesive or cling car door edge guards. Adhesive guards install on your vehicle like double-sided tape or a sticker, making them generally easier and more straightforward to install. They may come as a roll that can be cut to size or as a single piece of plastic or soft bumper material.
Cling guards, on the other hand, can be made of thick rubber material, metal, or plastic. They will have small grooves that snug around the edges of your car door for a secure fit.
How to Install Car Door Edge Guards
In addition to the installation advice that is given within our review list, here are some extra installation tips for both types of edge guards.
Watch this video to see how to install adhesive edge guards or this video to see how to install cling edge guards.
Additional Installation Tips
You may want to use a rubber mallet to gently tap cling edge guards to ensure they fit snugly into place.
Leaving the rubber or plastic material to sit in the heat for a few minutes might help it to be more stretchy and flexible, ensuring that the edge guard material will mold more easily to your car.
If your scissors can’t cut through the edge guard material, use wire cutters or industrial-strength scissors instead.
Car Door Edge Guards: Frequently Asked Questions
Are Car Door Edge Guards Strong Enough to Prevent All Dents and Scratches?
Car door edge guards will certainly reduce the amount of damage caused when your door impacts other doors or stationary objects. They are designed to handle the stress of normal, everyday wear and tear. However, it may not prevent all kinds of damage. Extremely forceful collisions may still result in damage to your car door.
Will Car Door Edges Ruin the Paint Job Around My Car Door?
If the guards are wrapped around the edges of the car door, they most likely won’t ruin the paint. They function to protect the paint job and prevent chipping and scratches from happening. You can even use them to cover up scratches that are already there.
Will the Weather Damage Them?
Rain can cause discoloration in plastic edge guards. However, most types of car door edge guards are relatively safe from weather-related damage. If you properly install them on your vehicle, they should maintain their original look.
Is It Possible to Remove Edge Guards From My Vehicle?
It is possible. Simply peel them off with your fingers and use soap and water to clean off any tape residue. If you remove them carefully enough, you might be able to reuse the edge guards on another vehicle if you like.
Can I Use Wax Over Car Door Edge Guards?
You absolutely can! However, please be aware that some wax may build up over time along the edges of the door guards. You can easily remove this film when your car is completely dry with a microfiber cloth. Don’t use waxes that have dyes, and don’t use waxes that are not recommended for urethanes as these can cause major damage to your car door edge guards.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know more about what features to consider when choosing car door edge guards, you’ll be sure to find the best one for you! More

Snowmobile boots are a vital piece of equipment for most people that participate in the sport, protecting, warming, and supporting feet during long days out on the sled. While those who are new to the sport or are just getting together all of their equipment sometimes use a sturdy pair of winter boots, after a snow machine and a helmet, a snowmobile-specific boot shouldn’t be far behind on your shopping list.
Snowmobile boots are typically windproof, meant to withstand extreme temperatures (around -60 degrees Fahrenheit). Many models are also DOT approved, which means they’re not only certified to protect your feet and ankles in the event of a crash, but they’re also crash tested and designed around rigorous safety standards. Lastly, they’re rigid, meaning they can support your weight as you shift around on the sled, making performing complex maneuvers easier and allowing you to move more quickly and more effectively around tight trail networks.

Features to Consider in a Snowmobile Boot
There’s plenty to think about when shopping around for a snowmobile boot, from fashion (does it match with your sled?) to warmth (does it match with the forecast). We’ve identified the following as the most fundamental parts to watch out for when looking for a snowmobile boot.
Protection
An average sled can get up to 95 miles per hour while a higher speed snowmobile hits over 150 mph. When riding quickly, a snowmobile boot is nearly as important as a helmet or any other personal protective equipment, protecting your legs, shins, and feet from debris and supporting them in the event of a crash.
Weatherproofing
Also, make sure your snowmobile boot is both waterproof and breathable, as moisture is the enemy of warm feet. Keeping your feet toasty and safe from frostbite is more about the design of your boot than the sheer quantity of insulation.
Insulation
There are about as many insulation types as models of boots, with everyone taking a different approach to the most fundamental part of a winter boot. From natural compounds like wool to fancy synthetics that sometimes work great and sometimes don’t, make sure you’re paying attention to how your boot is insulated.
Enclosure Mechanism
Keeping your boot sealed with a reliable fastener is the best way to make sure you’re keeping the weather out. The following fasteners are the most common in the snowmobile market.
Laces: A classic, simple, and inexpensive enclosure mechanism, laces provide consistent pressure although wear out over time and can become untied.
Boa: The Boa enclosure system applies even pressure around the ankle and can’t become untied, although they’re much more expensive than other enclosures
Ratchet: Tightening with a series of clicks, ratchets are constructed with plastic and metal. While these don’t loosen up over time and are easy to use on the go, sometimes snow can get in the way and gum up the works.
Velcro: Velcro is a classic- quick, reliable, and inexpensive. It’s sometimes referred to as a ‘hook-and-loop’ enclosure, unfortunately, it loses the ability to cinch down tightly over time.
Elastic: While an elastic cord or cinch is usually not the only enclosure method, the material is often used over the top cuff of a boot to keep out snow and provide a seal that keeps the weather out, like a small gaiter.
Versatility
The last thing to consider with a snowmobile boot is its versatility: what exactly are you using it for? While serious snowmobilers might look for something with a high degree of protection that’s less comfortable while walking, those who are using their snowmobile as a tool to get around in the winter will want something warmer and more comfortable to walk in. Make sure your boot matches its intended application.

Top 10 Best Snowmobile Boots 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Castle X Charge Boa Men’s Snowmobile Boots

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Why we like it: These waterproof boots come from a legacy manufacturer, sporting an impressive insulation rating and good ventilation.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Boa
Insulation: 3-layer Merino Wool
Weatherproofing: Cordura Nylon
Review
Like most other Castle boots, these 3-layer Merino wool boots are rated to -60 degrees Fahrenheit, although while less expensive boots get the job done with synthetic, these ones accomplish the task with more premium materials than other Castle boots like the Castle X Force 2 Men’s Snowmobile Boot.
The Merino wool, in fact, is layered in between a moisture-wicking air mesh and perforated air foam, yielding a construction that’s warm but won’t ever mean you end up with wet feet. Like other Castle boots, these protect the feet from external water using polyurethane coated outer materials and 100D nylon (originally known by its brand name, Cordura nylon), which is permeable from inside, allowing sweat to evaporate, but not letting water in from the outside.
Our favorite part, though, and what makes these boots cost about $50 more than other Castle models, is the Boa attachment system, located at the top cuff of the boot and cinching down on the ankle without applying too much pressure.
While laces can become untied and cut off circulation when not tightened down evenly, the Boa system is warrantied, designed to tighten across the entire surface of the leg and ankle, and continues to be effective and easy to operate even in the cold and snow.

Pros
Three layers of Merino wool keep the feet warm
Cordura nylon is impermeable yet breathable
Boa attachment system is effective and easy to use
These boots use more premium materials than other models

Cons
About $50 more than comparable models

2. Best Premium Pick: Klim Klutch GTX Boa Boot

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Why we like it: Chock full of expensive features, high-end touches, and premium materials, this pricey boot is phenomenal if you’ve got the budget.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Boa
Insulation: Thinsulate Water-Resistant 800G
Weatherproofing: Gore Tex/Michelin Rubber Outsole
Review
Top to bottom, this boot is just about as good as it gets: a Boa system provides even retention around the ankle and calf and 800 gram Thinsulate material offers insulation resistance to even the coldest days. In fact, the manufacturer, Klim, even took the step of paying for the rights to use one of the industry’s most expensive materials: Gore Tex.
So there’s no question the boot is going to be great, especially considering the fact that it manages to stack on further name brand features like a Michelin rubber outsole and a Ortholite insole. So the question becomes, then, is the boot worth the high price of these expensive features?
It’s a complicated question, and in an already expensive sport, it feels easy to say yes. A boot is a small, small fraction of the price of a snow machine, so any accessory is going to feel significantly more economical than an additional purchase.
Still though, there are plenty of boots at half the price of this one. Our verdict: if you’re looking for high-performance equipment, buy this boot. If you’re looking for a more niche boot or something more versatile, you’re better off with something more economical.

Pros
Incorporates proprietary designer materials into its construction
Boa system gently locks the boot into place
Relatively inexpensive compared to other snowmobile equipment
Thinsulate material

Cons
Not worth the high price unless you need high performance
Niche users might be better off buying something more economical

3. Best Budget Pick: Joe Rocket’s Men’s Snowmobile Boot

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Why we like it: These inexpensive boots are made using several proprietary materials to maximize warmth, water resistance, and rigidity.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Velcro, Ratchet enclosure
Insulation: DuPont and Thermolite Insulated Liner
Weatherproofing: Waterproof Scotch Guard Genuine Leather
Review
These inexpensive boots aren’t the most technologically advanced, but they do incorporate several different types of proprietary or patented materials to maximize the efficacy of the boot. The outer construction is made of a material called Scotch Guard leather, a type of leather that’s supple and waterproof, allowing the exterior to be completely weatherproof.
Unfortunately, though, this means that you’ll have to frequently wipe down the external part of the boot, as weather when not cared for properly begins to decay. The inside contains a DuPont and Thermolite insulated booty to keep the foot itself warm, claiming to be effective up to an incredibly frigid -60˚F, a temperature that we hope you’ll never have to endure.
While a ratchet enclosure cinches down the bottom of the boot, the cuff of the boot relies on Velcro, which is not quite effective at keeping snow and wind from entering the top of the boot. This reduces the efficacy of the entire boot itself.
We wish that the top cuff incorporated a Boa enclosure or at least a ratchet enclosure to keep that top cuff tight around the calf, providing an insulative seal around the leg. They’re great for budget buyers, but if you’re looking for the top of the line, check out the Klim Klutch GTX Boa Boot.

Pros
Uses Scotch Guard leather for waterproofing
Dupont/Thermolite insulation in booty
Effective up to -60˚F
Ratchet enclosure tightly cinches down the bottom of the boot

Cons
Velcro cuff isn’t great at insulating the top of the boot
Leather requires some care

4. Best Women’s Snowmobile Boots: Kamik Women’s Canuck Boot

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Why we like it: These women’s boots aren’t purely meant for snowmobilers, but they’re more than up to the task.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Laces with Elastic Cuff
Insulation: 8mm Zylex Liner
Weatherproofing: 1000 Denier Nylon/Rubber
Review
Although this boot technically isn’t a snowmobile boot, it contains many of the technical, proprietary materials that have come to be expected in recent years on snowmobile specific models. This starts with a 1000 Denier nylon upper, a material that’s both insulated and waterproof, keeping your feet dry even in slushy conditions. Internally located is an 8mm Zylex liner, removable in case it needs to be dried or cleaned, adding another layer of warmth.
So what makes this good for snowmobiling, then? Firstly, it’s got an impressive cuff length, completely necessary if you’re looking for a non-snowmobile-specific boot that will work with your sled. This high cuff length won’t just protect you from a crash, it’ll better protect you from the snow that gets kicked up when riding.
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-cuffed mens’ boot, check out the Sorel Men’s Bear XT Insulated Winter Boots.
The last important part is the construction of the sole and of the upper. A thick rubber sole and upper wraps all the way around the top of the foot, stopping just sort of the ankle, protecting against more injuries than boots where only the sole itself is rubber. An elastic ring tops off the gaiter, and a relatively outdated lace-up retention is effective at evenly cinching down the cuff, but can become untied at inconvenient moments.

Pros
High-cuffed boots will protect from crashes and the elements
Thick rubber sole and upper helps with waterproofing
Elastic ring seals the gaiter

Cons
Laces can become untied at inconvenient moments
Not technically meant for snowmobiles

5. Best High-Tech Boot: FXR X-Cross Pro Speed Boots

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Why we like it: These ultra-modern technical boots aren’t just impressive for serious riders, they also do a great job of providing luxury touches for more casual snowmobilers.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Laces
Insulation: Synthetic
Weatherproofing: 2mm Rubber Coating
Review
As a snowmobile-specific boot, these technical looking and feeling options from powersports company FXR have a feature that non-snowmobile-specific boots simply won’t have: a DOT and FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) certification, meaning your feet and ankles will be well protected in the case of an accident.
Fastening with laces, it doesn’t use the most technologically advanced fasteners, but the tech has been around for hundreds of years and isn’t going anywhere. In fact, this design of lace is actually complemented by the boots two-piece tongue construction, which allows it to provide a strong seal around the calf, keeping wind and snow out. They’re rated to an impressive -40˚F, which isn’t the best in class but for a pair of rigid snowmobile-specific boots is pretty darn impressive.
Lastly, the boots are supportive. A fixed liner keeps the foot in place, a 20mm thick EVA footbed provides support, and 2mm of rubber keeps water out when slogging around in the wet. With unisex colorways that accomodate feet from women’s size 5 all the way up to men’s 13, these will accommodate just about any size foot.

Pros
Supportive and insulative two-tongue construction
2mm of rubber for waterproofing
DOT and FMVSS certification
Unisex colorways with a wide range of sizes

Cons
Insulation rating isn’t great for the category
Laces as a fastening mechanism aren’t particularly impressive

6. Best Cold Weather Boot: Baffin Impact Boot

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Why we like it: This ultra-cold weather boot isn’t snowmobile-specific, but it’s one of the warmest boots on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Buckle and Elastic
Insulation: Baffin Multi-Layer Inner Boot System
Weatherproofing: Rubber Base
Review
While Baffin isn’t necessarily a huge name in snowmobiles, it is a well-known brand in general winterwear, providing phenomenal, winterproof, waterproof products at a relatively economic price. Unfortunately, though, they’re not snowmobile specific, meaning that among other small details, the boots are not DOT approved, although the sheer nylon boot outer layer should provide at least some protection in the event of a crash.
The boot is rated to a ridiculous -148ºF, which we hope you never have the misfortune to encounter (it’s actually colder than the coldest temperature ever measured on earth). So just because a hypothetical foot could survive that low of a temperature in this boot doesn’t mean that an ultra-warm boot doesn’t provide benefits: even at a relatively balmy 0ºF, your foot will be more comfortable than if you were using a warmer-weather boot like the FXR X-Cross Pro Speed.
The inner layer, which incorporates a removable booty, uses Baffin’s multi-layer system to insulate the foot, although that messes with conventional sizing. Over time, that liner will stretch out, but not to the extent that you should purchase your standard size. As with most snowmobile boots, purchase approximately one size up. If you happen to get the wrong size, you could experience hot spots and friction.

Pros
Boots will keep you warm even in ridiculously low temperatures
Incorporates a three-layer removable booty
Sheer nylon provides protection in the event of a crash
Liner stretches out over time, accommodating foot size

Cons
Purchasing the wrong size yields hot spots and friction
Liner stretches out over time
Not DOT approved

7. Best Leather Snowmobile Boot: Castle X Force 2

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Why we like it: Snowmobile apparel giant Castle is a phenomenal example of a company that knows how to produce a product that ticks all the boxes for snowmobilers.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Laces
Insulation: Natural Wool Blend
Weatherproofing: DRY-X membrane
Review
With a lace enclosure, these boots are bit older school in terms of construction but as modern as the best of them with regards to function. Although at first glance, the design and detail features look similar to older boots, the retro (or at least traditional) look hides the advanced materials and tech that makes these boots a lot more advanced than they appear.
Made of a breathable, wicking, natural wool blend, the removable insole has a waterproof and metallic heat layer insulating the boot. Primarily, though, the waterproofing can be credited to Castle’s proprietary DRY-X membrane, and the polyurethane coating around the entire outer layer of the boot. It’s about as warm as boots rated to 40˚F, like the FXR X-Cross Pro Speed boots.
As they’ve got a bit of leather, they’ll require a bit more care than with fully synthetic boots, and you’ll have to wipe down and dry off the boot every time it gets wet or salty. We do like the design touch, and the dark color scheme, though, and the leather contributes to an overall more durable makeup. Not interested in the leather boot outer layer construction? The same boot also comes in high-vis and women’s versions.

Pros
Rigid snowmobile boots have a retro look and advanced construction
Includes Castle’s proprietary DRY-X membrane
Come in high-vis and women’s versions

Cons
Leather requires some care after use
Has a slightly retro look

8. Most Versatile Men’s Snowmobile Boot: Sorel Men’s Bear XT

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Why we like it: Although this sturdy winter boot isn’t technically snowmobile-specific, it’s sturdy enough to be protective and great for all kinds of winter tasks.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Laces with Elastic Cuff
Insulation: Heat-Reflective Lining
Weatherproofing: PU-Coated Synthetic Textile
Review
First of all, we have to say that this boot is not snowmobile-specific, meaning it’s not DOT approved like FXR X-Cross Pro Speed Boots and therefore not as safe in potential accidents as other boots. Simultaneously, though, if you’re using a sled as a tool to get around in the winter more than as a recreational vehicle, you’ll need a pair of boots like this that will be equally effective for work.
While these are sturdy and stiff enough for snowmobile use, where these boots really shine is out while working. Take, for example, their 13-inch cuff, which, covered by an elastic flexible gaiter does an impressive job of keeping snow out even when tromping around snowdrifts that get even above the top of your boot. Count on impressive water protection as well, as the PU (Polyurethane) coated plastic doesn’t just seal out water, it lets the foot breathe as well.
These boots, however, have some weak points as well. The sole is highly profiled, meaning that while they’re good for hiking, these boots don’t stick to the footboards as well as flat-bottomed boots that are specifically meant for the task. It shouldn’t be a problem for a casual user, but it’s a bit more of a challenge for snowmobilers riding aggressively.

Pros
Impressive water protection and weather resistance thanks to long cuff
Highly profiled sole is good for hiking
Phenomenal for winter work
Allows foot to breathe

Cons
Grip is a problem for snowmobilers who ride aggressively
Boot is not as safe in accidents as snowmobile-specific options

9. Most Versatile Unisex Snowmobile Boot: Klim Adrenaline GTX

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Why we like it: These cold-weather boots are durable and sturdy enough for use around your farm or land during the winter while being rigid and warm enough for snowmobile use.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Laces
Insulation: 3M Thinsulate
Weatherproofing: Gore-Tex
Review
A solidly-constructed boot meant to be versatile for use both on and off the sled, these boots from Klim, a largely snowmobile-specific company, are a great option for those who want a snowmobile specific boot that can be used for other purposes as well. Rigid enough for maneuvering a sled and shifting weight while on powdery snowmobile trails, they also come with features that make them fine for slogging around the snow without a snow machine.
Loaded up with multi-layered construction for heat retention and a thin sheet of 3M Thinsulate insulation, adding both waterproofing and a chance for more heat capture. The exterior is durable as well, especially when weighing it against other synthetic alternatives, primarily woven nylon and synthetic rubber.
Unfortunately, they’re not the most breathable, and they’re not technically snowmobile-specific or DOT approved, meaning they won’t be as safe in the event of a crash, nor are they great for the most aggressive of riders. Fortunately, Gore Tex means that they’ll still slide instead of catch in a crash, and solid ankle support means they’re much more sturdy than other snow boots.

Pros
Snowmobile specific boot that can be used for other purposes
Rigid enough for maneuvering on snow but flexible enough for hiking
Multi-layered construction
Made of woven nylon and synthetic rubber

Cons
Not DOT approved
Not snowmobile-specific

10. Most Breathable: Fly Racing Marker Boa Boots

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Why we like it: These semi-premium boots from newcomer Fly Racing are great for breathability and waterproofing, although not ideal for extremely cold weather.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Enclosure Mechanism: Boa
Insulation: Thinsulate 600G
Weatherproofing: Hydroguard
Review
Fly Racing is traditionally a motocross-centered company, but has expanded into other sports recently, offering products in everything from water sports to mountain biking. Thankfully for snowmobilers, they’ve also begun to produce sturdy products for snowmobilers, although they’re slightly more expensive than comparable products from more established manufacturers.
Taking knowledge from years of producing all-condition, no-holds-barred motocross boots, Fly Racing incorporates their universal Hydroguard system with this pair of boots, preventing water penetration while simultaneously allowing the feet to breathe. Still not quite at the level of major manufacturers, unfortunately, these boots are only rated down to -40˚F, not the standard -60˚F we’ve come to expect from other manufacturers.
Our favorite part of these boots, by far, is their thick and grippy rubber sole. It’s full of almost cleat-like rubber protrusions, perfect for clawing your way up packed, icy surfaces, with the rubber soft enough to help maintain a grip on the foot platforms of your snow machine. This yields a snowmobile boot that’s rigid enough for maneuvering the sled while being grippy enough for a bit of backcountry hiking.

Pros
Grippy sole is great for hard-packed icy surfaces
Hydroguard system is breathable but doesn’t let water in
Sturdy products are good for snowmobilers

Cons
Not rated to the -60˚F we expect from other manufacturers
Company is new to production of snowmobile products
Products are slightly more expensive than comparable models

Guide to Buying the Best Snowmobile Boots for 2020
Snowmobiling is an incredible sport, one of the best and most exciting ways to enjoy a winter landscape. While it’s more accessible than other motorsports from a price and skill perspective, riders still need to invest in the best equipment. An important part of this? A solid, rigid, and protective pair of snowmobile boots.
Pro Boot Tips for Snowmobilers
Many new sled riders are still learning quickly about the sport, and that’s fine: snowmobilers are a warm and welcoming community. Here are some of the tips for maximizing your boots from snowmobiling old-timers.
Size Up: A smart move for anyone with a sled is to size up on your winter boots from your normal street shoe size. This will give you room for thicker wool socks, or, on those really cold days, even a whole extra pair of socks.
Dry Feet: The most important thing you can do to keep your feet warm is to keep them dry. Sweaty feet? Bring a pair of socks to change into. Make sure your boots are waterproof but breathable, like these boots from Sorel.
Plastic Bags: Get yourself in a jam where your feet are colder than you expected? Stick your socked feet in a plastic bag, then pop your boots on. It’s not breathable, but it’ll keep out the wind and work in a pinch.
Watch Out for Salt: There’s no enemy of the snowmobiler more vile than road salt. If you do happen to get on some salty trails, roads, or road crossings, make sure you give your boots a wipe down with a wet rag to remove the compounds, which can deteriorate your boot over time.
Preference Considerations for Snowmobile Boots
We’re not going to state our own opinions on these factors that go into selecting a snowmobile boot, but these factors are good to consider based on your own unique considerations as a snowmobiler.
Work Boots vs. Snowmobile Specific Boots: While serious ‘bilers might look for something rigid, made by a snowmobile apparel brand, and meant to get along with the rest of your snowmobiling equipment, those who are using a snowmobile as a work vehicle might be okay with a more multipurpose boot. If you just happen to get around in the winter using a snowmobile, you can get the job done with something a bit more universal, sturdy, and meant for work.
Rigid vs. Flexible: While a rigid boot is a quintessential piece of snowmobile equipment, helping with balance and weight shifting while on the snow, a flexible boot can go a long way with keeping the foot comfortable and warm. Casual riders might prefer a less rigid boot, those really moving around on the sled frequently will want something rigid.
Removable Booty vs. Sewn-in Liner: Typically, a removable booty that slides into your boot is slightly warmer, providing an additional layer of air and an opportunity to dry out your boot. Sewn-in liners are cheaper and often provide thicker insulation, although they can hold onto smelly odors and be hard to dry out. More expensive boots like the Klim Klutch GTX Boa Boot have removable liners.
Snowmobiling Personal Protective Equipment
As with all powersports, snowmobiling presents a distinct danger that needs to be recognized and taken seriously. Make sure you incorporate the following into your attire when prepping for a day out:
Helmet: While many people choose to use a universal motorsport helmet when snowmobiling, having proper insulation makes the difference on colder days. Make sure it’s certified compliant to DOT standards, minimum, and think about purchasing something with MIPS to avoid concussions in case of a crash.
Boots: Although the most important thing is that your boots get above your ankle, a larger, rigid boot that protects your ankle and shin should be purchased to protect your legs and feet. Foot/leg injuries are the second most common type of injuries in power sports.
Face Shield or Goggles: Debris, snow, and wind can all affect visibility and thus your safety. Goggles are the most popular type of snowmobile eye protection, but face shields are seen relatively frequently as well.
Clothing: Snowmobile-specific clothing doesn’t only keep you warm, it provides padding and allows you to slide in case of a fall.
Avalanche Beacon: If you’re on your snow machine in mountainous terrain and deep snow, there’s always the risk of avalanche. Consider an avalanche beacon to aid in a potential rescue situation. While it won’t directly protect you from an accident, it might save your life after one.
FAQ
Snowmobilers are a curious bunch: here are a few answers to some of your most pressing questions on snowmobile boots.
How is Insulation Measured?
600g, 1000g, -60˚F, -40˚F: we’ve all seen companies classify boots in different ways, but what do these numbers really mean, and how accurate are they for comparison purposes?
Numbers that end in G refer to the insulation inside the boot itself, measured in grams. This number stands for grams per square meter of insulation, meaning higher numbers are more dense and thus more insulative. This number is objective, meaning it can’t be fudged, faked, or exaggerated.
Temperature is a different story, and different manufacturers have different ways of measuring their boots’ minimum temperature. Due to the subjectivity of the practice, manufacturers have begun to do away with these ratings, but it originally was a measure based on the amount of insulation required to stay out at the designated temperature for a single hour. Use this metric to compare boot models within brands, but not necessarily between them.
Are Muck Boots Good for Snowmobiling?
Most people who live in snow-prone lands know the value of a good pair of muck boots. The fact that they’re completely water-impermeable and can be packed with a few layers of wool socks makes them a tempting choice for many snowmobilers, especially those who don’t want to shuck out a few hundred bucks for something snowmobile-specific.
Unfortunately, using a pair of muck boots on your snowmobile is not a great idea. They’re simply not rigid enough, meaning the bumps and jumps will be absorbed by the ankle instead of the boot itself, leading to potential injury. They’re also not warm enough, and their impermeable rubber will mean your feet will sweat and get wet instead of evaporating away moisture.
Are Snowmobile Boots Worth It?
As with most other products, the question as to if snowmobile boots are ‘worth it’ is a complex one that depends on a lot of different factors. Our recommendation for a good guideline? If you’ve got your own snowmobile, it’s worth it to pick up a pair of boots. If you’re renting or borrowing a snow machine more than riding your own sled, you’re probably fine with some standard, sturdy, winter boots.
Is a BOA Attachment System Worth It?
From the Tour de France to the PGA, and recently a host of snowmobiling boots, the BOA attachment system has swept the sporting world due to the fact that it provides a consistent, gentle pressure, holding the shoe tightly in place without the hotspots or friction of other shoe attachment methods. It also doesn’t loosen or untie. It’s not essential, perfect, or inexpensive, but if you have the funds, it’s probably the best attachment method out there.
What are the Advantages of Snowmobile Boots?
Snowmobile boots don’t connect to anything, aren’t special, they’re not even warmer than other types of winter boots. So what’s so necessary about them, then? First of all, snowmobile boots provide more protection than traditional boots, helpful in the event of a wipeout. Secondly, they’re more rigid, helping with control of the sled and reducing fatigue. Lastly, they’re designed for snowmobilers. While leather boots were fine in the early days of snow machines, they’re dated and out of style for the sleds and trends of today.
Other Products for Snowmobilers
Snowmobiling is an expensive hobby, and it’s not necessary the sled itself that ends up being the priciest part. There are plenty of products that make a snowmobiler’s life a lot easier, be it fun gadgets or workhorse loading ramps.
Loading Ramps: It’s a snowmobiler’s dream to be able to roll straight out of the garage onto a trail network, but for most of us it’s simply not feasible. A quality loading ramp helps get your sled up onto your trailer without too much difficulty.
Gloves: It’s important to take care of your most vital steering equipment, your hands and fingers. Don’t skimp on them and they won’t wimp out on you.
Helmet Speakers: Whether you’re looking for a way to listen to music while snowmobiling, you’re trying to chat with your riding buddies, or you just want to be able to follow along with voice navigation from your GPS, a helmet speaker fits right into your helmet.
Wrapping Up
Snowmobile boots are a vital piece of snow machining equipment, not only keeping you safe by providing a layer of insulation between you and the harsh elements, but also by providing a rigid and sturdy layer of protection between you and the ground. They’re not only vital for keeping out the cold, but also for making sure that you’ll be safe and sound in the event of an accident. At the end of the day, they’re the perfect complement to a snowmobiler and the perfect gift for anyone who loves getting out on their sled. More

While motorcycling in urban environments has grown in popularity in recent years, the foundation of the hobby is still where it’s always been: adventure. And when you’re exploring far away areas that you don’t know very well, there’s nothing better for navigation than a dedicated motorcycle-specific GPS navigation system that you can display near your controls.
More accurate, easier to use, and significantly more weatherproof than a smartphone, a GPS is great for those who don’t want to expose their smartphone to the elements. A motorcycle GPS is also easier to mount and has more motorcycle-specific features than a car GPS. There’s a reason motorcycle GPS systems have had continued success even as the adoption of car GPS systems has fallen dramatically over the last decade.

Features to Consider in a Motorcycle GPS Navigation System
Expensive and vitally important for long, remote, or backcountry trips, a GPS navigation system is well worth researching and understanding. While some units are a bit better for urban and fair-weather duty, other units are designed to keep going well off the beaten track. Make sure you’re purchasing a unit that is capable of going as long and as hard as you can.
Screen Size
While motorcycle GPS navigation systems are on average quite a bit smaller than truck and car units, some motorcyclists still prefer a large-ish screen to maximize how much of the map they can see while riding along. A five-inch display is about average, and we wouldn’t go much smaller than four inches.
Also consider color and resolution, as there are many black and white options that get tricky to read. Cheaper devices don’t typically provide HD displays.
Battery Life
With only the newest model years of motorcycles containing mini-USB ports for charging auxiliary devices, you’ll probably want a model with great battery life so you can head out on longer rides. Your priorities and preferences will determine whether you need 3 hours or 8, but make sure you pick a product tailored to your preferences.
GPS Mounts
A solid GPS mount makes the difference between a great day on the bike and a horrible one. Pick your mounting mechanism, your adjustability level, material, and durability. An included GPS mount is a nice touch, but sometimes a cheap mount that will break easily or drop your GPS is worse than no mount at all.
Live Traffic
And you thought a traffic jam in a car was bad! With poor visibility, no air conditioning or heating, the sun beating down, and gas fumes all around, motorcyclists avoid traffic at all costs. For some, it’s worth investing in a product that can keep them updated on the traffic conditions so as to best avoid jams, although if you’re frequently in the backcountry, it might not be worth the price.
Durability
Prone to fall damage, all kinds of weather, and extreme temperatures, motorcycle GPS systems have to be quite a bit more durable and waterproof than their truck and car counterparts. While most units advertise being durable, there are a few specific things to look out for, notably drop tests (look for the Military 810 drop test as a gold standard), Gorilla Glass screens, and waterproofing (IP65, IP66, IPX6, and IPX7 are all considered waterproof, with IP67 and IPX5 being the highest bar). Make sure the manufacturer’s claims are backed up with rigorous testing and certifications.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
You’re buying a motorcycle GPS navigation system, not a car GPS, so make sure you’re getting something that has motorcycle-specific features. There are a couple of nifty features that motorcycle-specific units include that typical consumer units don’t have:
Headset Compatibility: It’s almost impossible to hear GPS turn-by-turn directions between heavy traffic and strong winds. Look for a device with Bluetooth capability that can connect with the speaker/headset in your helmet.
Rider Alerts: Speed cameras, railroad crossings, and weather alerts are all things motorcyclists have to pay attention to. Make sure you’re up to date with an advanced GPS that provides you with all the relevant information.
Motorcycle Routing: Devices frequently are programmed with motorcycle-specific routing options (in Garmin’s case, called ‘Adventurous Routing’) with less traffic, windier roads, and more elevation gain to keep things varied and interesting for enthusiasts.
Keeping these features in mind, make sure you’ve got a good idea of exactly what kind of product you’re looking for. Check out our picks for the best GPS navigation systems on the market below.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle GPS Navigation Systems 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle GPS System: Garmin Zumo 395 LM

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Why we like it: A compact yet high-def and durable GPS system with free lifetime updates is a best seller with good reason.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 4.3 inches
Battery Life: 7 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
A 4-inch model with a durable construction fit for off-road riding, the Zumo 395 LM from Garmin takes what motorcyclists need and packages it up in a convenient and effective package. It’s set up to function with a built-in helmet speaker and microphone combo, with hands-free calling and audio turn-by-turn navigation wireless piped to your helmet speaker. You can also use it to set up music, radio, or podcasts with a compatible Bluetooth device.
Pairing the system to your phone is easy, quick, and has good range, meaning you can leave your phone in your pannier and still maintain a connection. The entire system runs on 5-volt power, meaning it’s not particularly demanding on standard 12-volt electrical systems. It includes a suction cup mount that’s really better suited for car use, a handlebar mount that’s practically infallible, and free lifetime map updates.
The only issue we see is that it looks like it came straight out of the nineties with rounded, bladed edges. But the form comes with a function: the device is drop-proof, shatter-proof, and has a bright, high-def screen that can be seen even in bright sunlight and used by gloved riders.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
This isn’t just a motorcycle-specific skin on what’s really a car GPS, it’s designed from top to bottom to solve the issues motorcyclists face on long trips. This starts with motorcycle-specific data, updating the motorcyclist with sharp curve warnings, speed-camera locations, and even displaying local regulations (helmet laws, for example) that flash across the screen when riding into a new jurisdiction.
Like its larger counterpart, the Garmin Zumo 595 LM, the unit also has a feature called ‘Adventurous Routing,’ which routes motorcyclists away from highways and onto scenic, rolling, and curving roads.

Pros
Perfect for the typical motorcyclist
Can be set up with Bluetooth for audio output
Adventurous Routing features lesser-traveled routes
Motorcycle-specific data like sharp curve warnings and speed-camera locations

Cons
Relatively small screen
Suction-cup mount is better for cars than motorcycles

2. Best Premium Motorcycle GPS: Garmin Zumo 595 LM

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Why we like it: This premium-feeling GPS system comes with a high price tag as well as high-end features, a large screen, and fantastic durability.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5 inches
Battery Life: 7 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
The Cadillac (or should we say Ducati?) of motorcycle GPS navigation systems is, without a doubt, this $500-plus unit from industry titan Garmin. Including all of the features we can think of all in a slickly designed, durable, and technologically impressive package, the unit truly has no equal, either in capability or in price.
In fact, price is really one of the only complaints we have about this unit. If you end up having to decide between a small, barn-find project bike and this GPS, the motorcycle itself might cost you less money. But this motorcycle GPS is not for saving money: it’s for the discerning consumer, the motorcyclist who wants Garmin’s premium features (motorcycle-specific routing, an HD full-color display, Bluetooth capability) and who is willing to pay the price. To owners of larger displacement tourers, technophiles (it measures wind speed, for God’s sake!), or lovers of the finer things in life: buy this GPS.
The display is larger than its smaller, less expensive brother, the Garmin Zumo 395 LM and has an IPX7 waterproof designation. Unfortunately, battery life is well below average. Garmin’s logic, if we had to guess, is that users who can afford a $500-plus GPS can probably afford a bike with an auxiliary USB charging port.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
This model, as well as the Garmin Zumo 395 LM has an ‘Adventurous Routing’ mode which sets turn-by-turn directions to look for the most interesting, twistiest, and hilliest roads for those motorcyclists that love interesting, scenic byways.

Pros
Large format unit has a luxury feel and features
Full-size 5-inch screen
‘Adventurous Routing’ mode routes takes users off the beaten path
IPX7 waterproof designation

Cons
Battery life is a bit below average
Requires a 12-volt charging port

3. Best Budget Motorcycle GPS: Koolertron 4.3 Inch All Terrain Waterproof Motorcycle GPS Navigation System

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Why we like it: One of the least expensive motorcycle GPS navigation systems on the market, this Koolertron-manufactured unit is great for off-roaders and motocross riders.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 4.3 inches
Battery Life: 6 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: No
Review
A fraction of the price of premium mounts, this GPS system measures a bit over four inches, making it one of the smallest and lightest units to make our lineup. While its touchscreen isn’t quite as responsive as Garmin’s Zumo 395’s hyper-responsive interface, it’s more than effective, even with gloves and even in the rain (it has the same IPX7 rating as Garmin’s products).
It’s really most at home on the handlebars of a dirt bike or an adventure bike, with a mudguard that also serves as a shade for the not-that-bright screen, a drop-proof construction, and several options for mounts, including an ultra-sturdy handlebar mount. Maps are stored on 20GB of memory, four gigs built-in, and another 16GB with an SD card, meaning there’s plenty of space for custom maps of trail networks in your area.
While there’s no speaker for turn-by-turn directions, the unit feeds audible instructions via GPS to any Bluetooth speaker. Simple instructions can be carried out via voice commands, perfect if you’re a fan of using a headset while riding.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
Aside from an ample memory bank for trail riders and the included sturdy handlebar mount, this inexpensive unit doesn’t really have too much distinguishing it from car GPS units other than a burly construction. At the same time, for a device that costs well under $200, you simply can’t expect the same clever (and expensive) motorcycle-specific features as you’d get from a $500 unit.

Pros
Burly construction and handlebar mount are great for off-road use
IPX7 waterproof rated
Mudguard and sunshade incorporated into the design
20 GB of memory capacity for custom trail maps

Cons
Software and features aren’t very different from car GPS systems
Screen isn’t particularly bright

4. Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S

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Why we like it: An economical Garmin unit still includes all of Garmin’s most powerful motorcycle features in a slightly less premium (and less durable) design to save money.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 4.3 inches
Battery Life: 6 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
There’s a reason Garmin is the king of the GPS market as a whole, and a reason so many motorcycle owners are willing to pay the slight price premium Garmin charges: the company simply addresses the needs of motorcyclists better than any other GPS company. That’s not to say all of their units are perfect, in fact, this unit has several inconvenient flaws: unreliable Bluetooth pairing, for one, and completely lackluster off-road capability and maps. Nonetheless, though, it’s a strong contender and one of the cheapest Garmins available.
While it’s not as sturdy as the larger Garmin Zumo 595 LM, or as fully featured as its premium counterpart, the Garmin Zumo 395 LM, it still includes the basic features we’ve come to know and love with all Garmins: rider alerts for curves, strong winds, and speed cameras, ‘Adventurous Routing’ (the best motorcycle-specific routing system we’ve come across), and audio turn-by-turn directions.
The unit is somewhat rugged (especially compared to smartphones) and rated to be water-resistant, although not certified IPX7 waterproof. Think of it as an entry point to the Garmin world, with all of the standard features but not necessarily all of the bells and whistles.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
While this GPS is a slightly more budget-oriented option compared with other Garmin units, it’s still fully-featured from a motorcycle-specific perspective. Motorcycle specific routing, rider alerts, Bluetooth pairing for cellphone speakers, and more are all native to the device. The low price really has much more to do with processing power and a less-durable construction than features or software.

Pros
Garmin motorcycle-specific unit available at a low price
Fully featured with rider alerts and motorcycle-specific routing
Relatively rugged construction
Equipped with adventurous routing off-road features

Cons
Less durable than most motorcycle GPS units
Doesn’t have great processing power

5. Best for Offroad Riding: Trail Tech Voyager Pro UTV GPS 4-Inch Touch Screen

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Why we like it: This GPS designed for UTVs, ATVs, and snowmobilers is just at home on backroad gravel byways and motorcycle trails as on the highway.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 inches
Battery Life: Must be connected
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: No
Review
This GPS from powersports company Trail Tech lives up to its name, with phenomenal durability complemented by an IP67 rating for dust proofing and water resistance. It’s drop-resistant as well, although frankly, with an included mount that attaches directly to the handlebar, we’re not worried about it dropping at all.
Although it’s marketed as a UTV GPS system, it’s great for dirt bikers and even adventure motorcyclists, with a few trail networks preloaded. If your local trail network isn’t listed, though, a micro SD card slot is perfect for anyone who needs to load off-road GPX files. Unfortunately, this means there’s next to no road maps loaded on the device, so it’s better suited for trail riders.
There are free road maps available online for various regions of the country, but accurate and up-to-date file packs take a bit of time to track down.
The strangest part of this mount, however, is the fact that it has to be semi-permanently routed and always connected to a battery, although the feature isn’t actually as inconvenient as you might imagine. In fact, if you’ve got the right 12v power ports near your handlebars, it means you’ll end up with a unit that’s affixed more solidly and requires less fuss than battery-powered units like the TomTom Rider 550. The only downside, though, is that if you have an older or more retro-style rig without a 12-volt mini-USB plug, you’re out of luck.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
While there are no live traffic or motorcycle-specific routing features with this GPS system, there are plenty of features that make it great for motorsport. A tracking feature can display the locations of up to 20 riding partners simultaneously, making things safe and social. It’s also got Bluetooth connection capability that enables you to chat with your riding buddies and listen to music through a helmet speaker.

Pros
Phenomenal for all off-road motorists
Can be affixed more permanently than GPS systems that require recharging
Can be loaded with downloaded GPS files
Free maps available for off-road use

Cons
Designed for UTVs instead of motorcycles
No road maps loaded onto the device
Requires a direct connection to a 12-volt power port

6. Garmin Zumo XT 5.5-Inch Ultrabright

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Why we like it: This GPS system is more at home on scenic highways and winding roads than on a dirt bike trail, although it’s still plenty rugged.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5.5 inches
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
A slightly more road-oriented relative of the Garmin Zumo 595 LM, the Garmin Zumo XT is a pricey but luxury-feeling GPS perfect for long-distance tourers. While a bigger screen fits a bigger dash, the luxury feel with this device is really meant for a luxury motorcycle.
And while it’s not built with the rugged, rubber protections of an off-road specific GPS system, it still holds up with a rain-resistant screen and a military-rated drop test construction that can withstand repeated drops onto concrete. It’s also waterproof, and the capacitive touchscreen is responsive even with a gloved hand.
For those who like to get out of the city, the GPS overlays satellite images on the map display, enabling riders to figure out where they’re headed and where to go even when the GPX file doesn’t know the route. Like other Garmin devices, it has an ‘Adventurous Routing’ feature that picks out more interesting roads over fast, multilane highways.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
The Garmin Zumo XT delivers on its price tag with a whole host of features designed for motorcyclists that simply aren’t available on other platforms. The device displays live weather and traffic updates, vital for motorcyclists on longer trips in unfamiliar territory. The routes you ride can be recorded for both planning and safety purposes, and waypoints make sure you’re on course and help you rendezvous with your group if you get separated. It can even be synced with your phone to pipe audio to your in-helmet speaker and display notifications on the GPS screen.

Pros
Road-oriented mount has a healthy-sized 5.5-inch display
Live traffic and weather updates
Waypoints and data recording for review
GPS routes can be overlaid on the map display
Military rated drop-proof

Cons
Not as rugged as off-road specific GPS systems
A bigger screen requires a bigger dash

7. TomTom Rider 550

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Why we like it: The TomTom Rider 550 is a ‘comeback’ computer from the once down-and-out-manufacturer, with live display notifications and a weatherproof design.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 4.3 inches
Battery Life: 8 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
While Garmin has thrived over the last few years, former competitor TomTom has dropped off quite a bit, suffering as smartphones have made inroads against their (pricey) products. The TomTom Rider 550 is a step in the right direction, although it’s admittedly flawed for a few reasons.
Although the company offers a unit that comes with a drop-proof case, we’re frankly a bit confused on why they didn’t just design the GPS to be drop-proof in the first place. At the end of the day, it’s still relatively fall-proof thanks to its vibration-proof stand (included with the purchase), although if you let it fall while removing it from the mount, you could be out of luck. Mapping is flawed as well, as while TomTom advertises an ‘on pavement’ routing feature, it occasionally sends motorcyclists down dirt or gravel roads. Not ideal.
But there’s still plenty to like: an HD screen, live push notifications that come across your screen, and incredibly fast processing all make the unit great from a user-friendliness perspective. We don’t often think about processing when talking about a GPS unit, but the TomTom Rider 550’s quad-core processor means routing, menus, and notifications appear in a flash. No waiting, freezing, or stalling as with less powerful units.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
TomTom does more than just put a motorcycle-specific skin over a car GPS, even creating their own motorcycle-specific route building software for those who like to plan ahead. World maps mean you can take this thing from Norway to Vietnam and stay on track, all the while aided by TomTom’s live traffic feature. Safety alerts auto-populate with no need to be connected to a phone or a mobile network.

Pros
Powerful processor means quick navigation and no waiting or freezing
User-friendly design
Live push notifications automatically populate
Included vibration-proof mount

Cons
Unit requires a drop-proof case to match durability of other units
On-pavement routing feature sometimes doesn’t live up to the name
Relatively expensive against the competition

8. Magellan TRX7 CS Dual Mount Trail and Street GPS Navigator

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Why we like it: While being off-road specific and coming prepopulated with 115,000 off-road trails, it’s still well equipped for on-road use with road maps of the entire continental US.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 inches
Battery Life: 6 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: No
Review
Although GPS manufacturer Magellan was the first company to produce a consumer-ready GPS device, the company has fallen off in recent years due to heavy competition. But the once-distressed group is back on the way up, leveraging their extensive experience and network to produce niche-oriented products, with this specific TRX7 unit knocking it out of the park for its class: large off-road and adventure bikes.
Unlike GPS units that are pretty much off-road specific like the Trail Tech Voyager Pro, this device straddles the line between street and trail fantastically, with 115,000 preprogrammed trails available to display across its 6-inch screen.  Also loaded is an entire, up-to-date network of all continental US streets, roads, and highways, meaning that this is one of the most comprehensive GPS units on the market today.
Magellan works hard to correct the errors of their past, offering a product team with extensive customer support and warranty replacement. The user interface, though, and the plasticky-feeling device itself, look like they came straight out of 1990, which is unfortunate for a device that’s almost $500. However, if you can get past the aesthetics, it’s a good alternative to large-format GPS systems like the Garmin Zumo 595 LM.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
The strongest motorcycle-specific features around this device are the maps, on which Magellan offers free lifetime updates. The device also includes worldwide 2D topographical maps of the whole world, as well as 3D topo maps for the entire US and Canada. The device even has a social sharing feature where you can publish your rides online to share with your riding buddies.

Pros
Large-format GPS comes with over 115,000 preprogrammed trails
Can be loaded with your own GPX files
Also includes road and highway maps
Great customer support and warranty service

Cons
Aesthetics are dated and plasticky-looking
The interface looks like something out of 1990

9. Best for Luxury Touring Bikes: BMW Navigator VI by Garmin

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Why we like it: This collaboration-born product comes by way of the already-renowned Garmin, paired with BMW tech to give a luxury touch.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5 inches
Battery Life: 4 Hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
With a five-inch display and a big BMW logo slapped on the front, this GPS system was originally designed for expensive German bikes, but also happens to work great on almost all luxury motorcycles. The device has some great touches, including one of the brightest screens in our lineup. With the system, you’ll get free map updates for life, a quick-connect Bluetooth feature, and accurate turn-by-turn route planning.
While audible directions are broadcasted from the system, you’ll have to connect to a helmet-mounted headset for it to work correctly, as there’s no built-in speaker on the device itself. This is annoying for city riders that might look for that feature directly on the GPS itself.
There are a couple of annoying features, though, that prove that we are indeed dealing with a BMW product. First of all, the product has to be on to charge, something that makes little to no sense. Secondly, the unit actually has two ‘off’ modes, one a true ‘off’ that doesn’t chew up the battery, and the other a ‘sleep’ mode that appears to be off when it really isn’t. Using the wrong ‘off’ mode could mean you go to turn on your GPS and have no battery left.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
While this unit’s ‘Avoid Highways’ feature isn’t as fully-featured or as enjoyable to use as other Garmin products’ ‘Adventurous Routing’ mode, luxury tourers on large-displacement bikes will probably be less likely to intentionally seek out the beaten path and will typically be a bit more comfortable on main roads and highways at higher speeds.

Pros
Five-inch display shows maps in high definition
Utilizes a version of motorcycle-specific routing called ‘Avoid Highways’ mode
Plan trips with turn-by-turn route planning
Great for luxury tourers and highway riders
Turn-by-turn directions

Cons
No built-in speaker system for audio
Multiple off/sleep settings make it easy to drain the battery
Product has to be turned on to charge

10. TomTom GO Supreme 5

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Why we like it: Thanks to a low price and a compact formula, this GPS system is originally meant for cars but doubles as an inexpensive motorcycle navigation system.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5.5 inches
Battery Life: 5 hours
Mount Included: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Review
This inexpensive mount from TomTom is relatively impressive for its price, although as a car specific mount, there are a few aspects that make it annoying for motorcyclists. It’s got an included mount, but it’s magnetic, meaning it’s not particularly secure. You’ll want to buy a handlebar mount if you use this frequently or on rougher roads.
Traffic warnings aren’t motorcycle specific and won’t route you down areas known to be friendly for motorcyclists, but they are convenient if you’re simply trying to avoid a jam. Updates and maps are user friendly as they come in via WiFi (no cable connection or computer required) and load automatically.
Power comes via an accessory outlet, which shouldn’t be a big deal if you have a newer bike with a 12-volt plug, but you’ll have to figure out a work-around if you’re going to mount it on an older bike. Our recommendation? If you’ve got something pre-2010, grab something rechargeable like the Garmin Zumo 395 LM to keep your dash clean and wire-free.
Motorcycle-Specific Features
As a GPS targeted for the car market, there’s obviously nothing that truly stands out as motorcycle-specific. That being said, though, we picked this unit for a few specific reasons to be a representative from the car GPS category. First thing? Speed warnings: it’s easy to get carried away on a liter bike or even a large capacity cruiser, and a speeding ticket will ruin your day. Second thing? Form factor: the TomTom’s shape is ideal for a motorcycle dash and is compatible with a host of GPS handlebar mounts, meaning you’ll have no trouble keeping it attached if you buy a handlebar mount.

Pros
Live traffic updates will keep you out of annoying jams
Form factor is great for motorcycle dashes
Updates and maps come automatically via WiFi
Speed warnings will keep you out of trouble

Cons
Construction isn’t motorcycle-specific
12-volt power means it only works with accessory outlets
You’ll need to buy a separate GPS mount

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle GPS Navigation Systems for 2020
While the GPS industry has been dramatically upset by the advent of GPS capability on smartphones, GPS companies still have great market penetration among motorcyclists, especially touring and adventure riders. The truth is, there’s still no smartphone that works as reliably as a motorcycle GPS.
Safety With a GPS
Using a GPS in a car is difficult and even dangerous in stressful driving conditions, so dealing with a navigation system while driving a motorcycle can be much worse. Operating the screen itself should really be left to the quietest moments while driving, with everything but the slightest adjustments best done while stopped or pulled over. Thankfully, though, motorcycles’ GPS navigation systems are designed with that in mind and are made to be used with minimal hand input and, in some cases, voice control.
Picking a Motorcycle GPS Mount
While plenty of GPS units come with a mount, it’s often inadequate for the rigors of motorcycling. The right mount, though, is worth splurging on, as cheaper options can drop your GPS or have you struggling to keep in the proper position. Don’t skimp! There are a couple of things to look out for:
Handlebar Mounts: Buy a GPS mount that attaches directly to your handlebar, as the only thing you can be sure of is a direct attachment method that physically screws onto your handlebars. While suction cup mounts are popular based on the fact that they’re universally compatible, they’re simply not as effective as screwed-on mounts.
Manufacturer-Specific: Manufacturers know their products best, so look for a mount either specific to your motorcycle or, better yet, specific to your GPS unit.
Certifications and Ratings: Many of the same drop-proof and waterproof ratings are just as valuable in a mount as a GPS itself. Check out IPX7 and other IP ratings for waterproofing and Grade 3B silicone for fatigue resistance.
Non-Slip/Non-Scratch Material: Silicone and PTFE are two materials to look out for that are fatigue-resistant, won’t scratch your phone, and resist vibration.
Updating Your GPS with Maps
A GPS system is only as good as the maps it uses, and while some companies frequently push out free map updates, others are a bit slower, with discount and private-label companies infrequently (or sometimes never) doling out a fresh update. Units like the TomTom GO Supreme 5 are automatically updated via WiFi.
Most major manufacturers will release a map update on a fixed schedule: if you happen to own a GPS from a well-known company such as TomTom or Garmin, you can simply connect your GPS around three times a year, download the maps from the company website, and upload via a mini-USB port.
If you have a GPS from a more niche manufacturer, you’ll have to do your own research into the frequency of updates. If you frequently ride on changing trail systems or in certain geographical areas, make sure you purchase a GPS that accurately displays those regions.
How to Plan Routing for Motorcycles

While wide four-lane highways are great for getting from place to place in an enclosed vehicle, most motorcyclists prefer the scenic route, or at least the road less traveled. Some motorcycles, typically under 150cc, aren’t even allowed on freeways, which makes motorcycle-specific routing necessary in many cases. If you’re looking for motorcycle trails and don’t already have a GPS with preloaded trails like the Magellan TRX7 CS Dual Mount Trail and Street GPS Navigator, GPS files for off-roading aren’t too hard to find: check out this article on finding moto trails.
Other Convenient Motorcycle Products
Although many motorcyclists reminisce on the golden days of bikers ripping across the country on loud, carbureted Indians and Harley-Davidsons, there’s a consolation prize for those who settle for more advanced and refined (dare we say delicate) engine tech: we truly live in the golden of motorcycle accessories. Consider some of these products along with your new GPS system:
Phone Mounts: Plenty of motorcyclists like to have a GPS for navigation and a phone mount in place for more general use. Look for something high grade, drop-proof, and with sturdy grippers to protect your expensive phone.
Helmet Speakers: Get turn by turn directions from your Bluetooth GPS system via a speaker or helmet headset. Make sure it will fit in your existing helmet.
Motorcycle Panniers: If you’ve got a motorcycle GPS, you’re probably into motorcycle touring. Don’t settle for inexpensive saddlebags, get some motorcycle-specific panniers or hard seat boxes to keep your gear safe, sound, and dry even in the gnarliest of conditions.
GPS Mounts: A GPS mount is worth its weight in gold, holding a GPS in place and preventing disastrous drops or annoying vibrations. Look for one that will fit your GPS device’s size and your motorcycle’s dash.
Should I Use a Phone App or Motorcycle GPS System?
There’s been a GPS revolution in the last ten years, with most drivers and plenty of motorcyclists switching to using their phone instead of purchasing a dedicated system. While this approach is fine for some, and typically less expensive (no need to purchase a secondary device), there are some distinct advantages to owning a GPS system.
Motorcycle-Specific Features: Some GPS map applications are meant for motorcyclists, but they’re typically expensive and less capable than GPS devices. Motorcycle-specific routing and alerts are just a few of the advantages that a GPS system has over a phone app.
Weatherproofing: Even though some phones claim to be waterproof, they have nowhere near the same drop resistance or weather resistance as a dedicated GPS device. While you have to baby your phone, you’ll never have to baby a military-grade, drop-proof GPS system.
Cell Service: While most phones have a built-in GPS, they typically rely on cell signal to load the maps themselves. No service means you’re out of luck, and that’s bad news when you’re in the backcountry. A GPS unit only needs a view of the sky to work perfectly.
Wrapping Up
A GPS is one of those motorcycle products that, once you’ve tried it out once, you need all the time. Whether it’s providing security in the backcountry, helping you find the scenic route, or keeping you hands-free and safe on the highway, motorcycle GPS navigation systems have gone head to head with smartphones and come out better than ever. For any frequent motorcyclists, they’re well worth a serious look. More