Reviews

If the sun often gets in your eyes during your work commute or you just do lots of driving, a sun visor extender is a worthwhile purchase. The last thing you want is for your eyes to suffer long-term damage, and sometimes your car’s visor doesn’t provide enough protection.
That said, there are some factors to consider when buying a visor extender, so we’ll discuss those, break down some of the best products available today, and show you how to find the right one for your needs. Let’s get started!

What to Look for in a Sun Visor Extender
Deciding which sun visor extender to buy can be more difficult than you think as there are several qualities to look for. You’ll want to consider how long the extender will last, how user-friendly and feature-rich it is as well as how effectively it protects you from the sun and improves your visibility while driving. We’ve taken all of these factors into account when choosing the products on our list.
Durability
There’s no point buying a visor extender if it won’t last you very long. You’ll want one that won’t break easily and is made of a material like acrylic, polycarbonate or polyurethane. Also, look for a visor extender that’s impact, temperature, and/or scratch-resistant.
Usability
We’ll discuss each visor extender’s overall user-friendliness. A good car visor extender fits your windshield/window, is easy to install, won’t fall off easily, can be put away when not in use, and is adjustable. Basically, you should get one that’s easy to use and makes your drives more comfortable, not more frustrating.
Effectiveness
Does the sun visor extender improve your view of the road and keep your skin and eyes safe? That’s what we’ll determine with this section of each review. You’ll want an extender that’ll stop you from squinting while you’re driving and reduce your risk of long-term health problems caused by lengthy, frequent exposure to sunlight.
Sun Visor Extender Types
It may surprise you to learn that there are actually two varieties of sun visor extenders. Thankfully, they’re easy to tell apart.
Visor-Mounted
These extenders attach to your vehicle’s visor by velcro, straps or screws. They either extend downward, to the side or both. Most sun visor extenders are visor-mounted.
Window-Mounted
These extenders attach to your car’s passenger and driver-side windows. They can be removed, reused and adjusted as needed. Additionally, they come in various sizes so they can cover just the space at eye level or the entire window.
Now that you know what to look for, here are our picks for the top sun visor extenders in 2020. If you’re looking to keep the sun out of your car when you’re not driving, be sure to check out our guides for buying sun shades for your windshield as well as your side windows.

Top 10 Best Sun Visor Extenders 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender is a great choice if you want an effective, user-friendly option at a reasonable price. Its polarized surface, adjustability and resistance to damage earn it the top spot on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.6” x 5.5”
As far as all-around sun visor extenders go, the SAILEAD Polarized can’t be beaten. Its polarized surface does a great job reducing glare and improving visual clarity. It’s also highly adjustable, so you can make sure it’s at your eye level at all times. Once you factor in its remarkable durability and fast, easy installation process, you’ve got our top pick.
Durability
The SAILEAD Polarized Extender is built to last thanks to its polycarbonate construction. It ranks highly for its impact, temperature, and scratch-resistance, so it’ll serve you just as well in extreme winter and summer climates as it will during more moderate weather periods. You also won’t have to worry about delicately handling it all the time.
Usability
This extender is incredibly user-friendly due to its adjustability and easy installation. You can rotate it 360-degrees and change its distance from you by using the slider on the spring loader. Altering the extender’s orientation to match your eye level is a breeze. You can even install it with just one hand and fold it up out of view when you don’t need it.
Unfortunately, the SAILEAD Polarized Extender is only compatible with visors 5.1-8.2” wide, so fitting them onto larger visors can be an issue. The screen also has trouble staying in place during bumpy rides, meaning you might have to readjust it sometimes.
Effectiveness
The SAILEAD Polarized Extender knocks it out of the park here. As its name suggests, it has a polarized surface that blocks glare and improves visual clarity. You won’t have to squint or cover your eyes when you’re driving toward the sun or when light glares off of other cars’ bumpers, windows or headlights. It also blocks UV rays up to 100%, which will protect your eyes and skin over the long term.

Pros
Reduces glare and blocks UV rays effectively
Impact/temperature/scratch resistant
Easy installation
360-degree adjustable

Cons
Hard to fit on larger car visors
Screen can be flimsy, especially on bumpy roads

2. Best Premium Pick: Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender

View on Amazon
Why we like it: If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, the Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender is the way to go. Between its added accessories and ability to block glare and UV rays, you’ve got a winning product.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 14” x 3.25”
For those willing to drop some extra money to have the highest-quality sun visor extender, the Glare Guard Polarized is the only real option. Its high-quality polarized surface protects you from glare and UV rays. Between the extender’s great screen, its easy installation process, and the accessories that come with it, you have another top-tier choice. Its only serious drawback are its hinges as the screws in them can easily loosen and cause the extender to swing.
Durability
The Glare Guard Polarized Extender has its strengths and weaknesses here. On one hand, it’s made to be impact, temperature and scratch-resistant so it lasts longer. On the other hand, the hinge screws can sometimes loosen on their own, which makes the visor extender swing while you drive. The plastic pieces that attach the visor to the hinge are also weak, particularly at hot temperatures. One way to get around this is to carefully apply glue to the screws. However, in the worst-case scenario, the hinges can break entirely.
If you’d like a sun visor extender without these hinge problems that’s also impact, temperature and scratch resistant, consider the SAILEAD Polycarbonate.
Usability
Installing this visor extender takes less than a minute. Just clip it to your car’s built-in visor and attach the Velcro straps that come with it. Every purchase of this product also gives you a microfiber cleaning cloth and an instruction sheet.
Effectiveness
The Glare Guard Polarized Extender is made of a high-quality polarized film that blocks glare and up to 100% of UVA and UVB rays, so you can see more easily while driving and rest assured that your eyes and skin are protected. It provides this safety without excessively darkening your view, and the acrylic material in the visor keeps everything you see clear.

Pros
Easily blocks UVA/UVB rays and glare
Comes with accessories
Easy installation

Cons
Screws in the hinges can easily come loose
Plastic hinge pieces are sometimes weak

3. Best Budget Pick: SAILEAD Sunshade Extender

View on Amazon
Why we like it: If you want to get the sun out of your eyes and you’re on a budget, the SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is the choice for you. It gets the job done and is built to last.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-21.6” x 5.1-8.2”
The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender offers a solid alternative to those who don’t want to break the bank on a sun visor extender. Like other visor extenders, it blocks glare and UV rays. It offers fast, easy installation and fits all built-in car visors wider than 4.7”. Its side and bottom panels can be adjusted at any time to suit your needs.
The downside is that the extender can weigh your car’s built-in visor down over time as it’s heavier than some other options. The side panel can also get in the way of the rearview mirror when it’s fully extended.
Durability
The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is surprisingly durable given its low price. It should last you for at least a year thanks to its polyurethane and polycarbonate construction.
Usability
Making the SAILEAD Sunshade Extender attach comfortably likely won’t be an issue since it fits any car visor wider than 4.7”. It’s also easy to install and comes with instructions to do so.
The extender’s elastic straps help it fit snugly to your car’s built-in visor most of the time, though the product’s weight can cause problems. You may need to tighten the straps after some use or the extender can start to sag and drag the built-in visor down over time.
If you’re interested in an extender with adjustable side and bottom panels that won’t weigh your car’s built-in visor down, take a look at the TFY Car Visor.
Effectiveness
This visor extender does a great job blocking glare and UV rays, and you can adjust its bottom and side panels any time. The only real disadvantage to the adjustable panels is that the side visor can partially block the rearview mirror, especially if it’s fully extended.

Pros
Great durability for such a low price
Fits most car visors easily
Adjustable side and bottom panels

Cons
Side panel can block rear view mirror, especially if fully extended
Heavy weight can make car visor sag over time if the extender isn’t properly secured

4. Best Window-Mounted: TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor

View on Amazon
Why we like it: If sunlight shining through your driver or passenger-side window frequently bothers you, there’s no better solution than the TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor. Its simple, effective design and ease of use make it the best window-mounted sun visor extender available today.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Window-Mounted
Dimensions: 18” x 7.5”
Most sun visor extenders attach to a car’s built-in visor, but the TuckVisor offers a great alternative for those who want a window-mounted option. You just have to tuck it between the window and the trim, and you’re done. No installation is required, and you can remove or adjust it whenever you want. Better yet, it fits 90% of all vehicles and is made to last for years.
The only real downside is you may have to get used to seeing it in your peripheral vision while you drive.
Durability
The TuckVisor is made of opaque, thin, semi-rigid material and is made to last a lifetime. There have been no major issues reported regarding the product’s durability, so you won’t have to worry about buying a replacement for a long time.
Usability
User-friendliness is one of the TuckVisor’s greatest advantages. Unlike with some other visor supplements, you won’t have to worry about compatibility since it’s made to fit typically shaped vehicle windows. If your side window’s shape is different from that of other vehicles, you can use scissors to make any necessary alterations to the TuckVisor so it fits.
Just tuck it between the window and the trim while pressing it flat against the surface. You can move it around the top of your window and take it down as needed. You may need to remove it when you roll down the window.
Effectiveness
The TuckVisor blocks sunlight, heat and harmful UV rays with ease. It’s a great choice if you’re often irritated by sunlight that shines in your driver or passenger-side window just past the edge of your car’s built-in visor. However, you’ll have to get used to seeing it in your peripheral vision.

Pros
No installation required
Can be moved around the top of the window or removed as needed
Great at protecting against sun, heat and UV rays coming in from side windows

Cons
Could be distracting having it in your peripheral vision
Must be removed when you roll down the window

5. Best Polycarbonate Lens: SAILEAD Polycarbonate

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Coming from a trusted brand, the SAILEAD Polycarbonate is another excellent all-around sun visor extender. While it’s one of the more expensive choices on this list, it justifies its price by providing strong performance in each metric.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-21.6” x 5.1-8.2”
The SAILEAD Polycarbonate shares many of the same great qualities as its manufacturer’s other products. These features include the polarized surface that fights glare and blocks UVA and UVB rays, its easy installation and resistance to impacts, scratches and extreme temperatures. It even fits nicely above your car’s visor when it’s not in use.
Durability
As its name suggests, this sun visor extender is made out of polycarbonate, so it’s built to last. It’s also impact, temperature and scratch-resistant, so you don’t have to worry too much about damaging it.
Usability
Like other SAILEAD products, the SAILEAD Polycarbonate takes little time or effort to install. It’s compatible with most cars, and the Velcro straps provide a strong grip for the extender. Finally, it fits nicely above the visor when you fold it up, meaning storage isn’t a concern.
The SAILEAD Polycarbonate’s only notable weakness in this area is that the velcro on the straps sometimes isn’t enough to give it the best fit on smaller visors.
Effectiveness
The extender’s polarized surface does a great job blocking glare and UVA/UVB rays while giving you a clear view of the road ahead. There’s also no gap between your car’s built-in visor and the extender, so you don’t have to worry about any beams of sunlight poking through and making you squint.

Pros
Polycarbonate construction grants durability
Blocks glare and UVA/UVB rays
Easy to store above visor when not in use

Cons
A bit hard to fit on smaller car visors

6. Best Basic Sun Visor Extender: Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield is another solid budget option. It’s sturdy, easy to install and store when not in use, and keeps you safe from UVA and UVB rays. Best of all, it’s the cheapest option on our list!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 11.75” x 4”
If saving money is your primary concern but you still want a reliable sun visor extender, then consider the Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield. Its durable polycarbonate screen blocks glare and over 90% of UVA and UVB rays. Plus, installation takes only seconds and you can easily fit it above your car’s built-in visor when it’s not in use.
On the other hand, the extender’s clips can seriously dig into your car’s built-in visor over time and leave deep marks. Additionally, the hinges can break from excessive stress. If you’d like an effective, easy-to-install visor without these issues, take a look at the SAILEAD Polycarbonate.
Durability
The Sun Shield’s shatterproof, polycarbonate screen scores it some points in this category, but the hinges have been known to break under stress. Make sure you don’t use too much force when adjusting the extender.
Usability
Installing the Sun Shield is simple: just clip it onto your car visor. It fits nicely above the visor when not in use, so storage isn’t an issue. The clips maintain a strong, secure grip on the visor which prevents it from moving, sagging, or falling off during bumpy drives. Unfortunately, the clips’ strength can also be a drawback since they can dig into your car visor and leave marks behind.
Effectiveness
The Sun Shield’s anti-glare screen keeps you safe from incoming sunlight and blocks over 90% of UVA and UVB rays. Just make sure that you can see clearly through it once you set it up.

Pros
Installation takes seconds
Blocks glare and UVA/UVB rays
Stays in place during bumpy rides

Cons
Clips can cut into your car’s built-in visor
Hinges can break easily

7. Easy to Install: TFY Sunshade Extender

View on Amazon
Why we like it: With the TFY Sunshade Extender, the price you pay matches the value you receive in return. It’s on the lower end of the price range for this guide, but it still gets the job done.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-19.29” x 5.12-7.68”
If aesthetics aren’t one of your concerns and you only care about a car visor extender’s functionality, then the TFY Sunshade Extender is a good choice. It’ll protect you from glare and UV rays like other extenders will, and installation is fast and easy.
The product’s downsides are that it isn’t the prettiest choice, and sometimes it can get worn down quickly. The sliding panels sometimes aren’t that easy to manage either, so you should get them in the position you want before you start driving. The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is a better choice if you want a product with more durability and larger sliding panels.
Durability
The TFY Sunshade Extender has a joint polyurethane/polycarbonate build, but its edges do show noticeable wear over time. You won’t have to worry about buying a replacement too soon after purchasing this extender, but it’s also not the most durable option.
Usability
Installing the extender is simple, and it fits snugly above the car visor when it’s folded up. Just make sure you adjust the side and bottom panels so they’re where you want them before you start driving since they can be hard to manipulate and you always want your eyes on the road.
Effectiveness
The TFY Sunshade Extender does a great job blocking UV rays and sun glare so you can drive without distractions. Its bottom and side panels don’t extend as far as those of comparable products, however.

Pros
Quick installation, no tools required
Blocks glare and UV rays
Fits above car’s built-in visor when not in use

Cons
Not the most aesthetically pleasing choice
The material chips away easily
Bottom and side panels are shorter than the ones on other sun visor extenders

8. Best Two-Panel Sun Visor Extender: Lebogner Sun Visor

View on Amazon
Why we like it: If you’re on a budget and are willing to try something different, the Lebogner Sun Visor is the choice for you. It blocks glare and UV rays like other extenders do, but it offers an unconventional two-panel design.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 11.75” x 5.25”
In addition to holding a place as the final budget option on our list, the Lebogner Sun Visor has a design unlike most other extenders. It has two anti-glare panels, a grey one for daytime use and a yellow one for nighttime use. The panels block more than 90% of UV rays, and installation couldn’t be simpler! Just clip the Lebogner onto your car visor.
On the other hand, the Lebogner’s distinctive composition does have its drawbacks. Whenever you want to use one panel, you have to move the other one out of the way, which can be somewhat inconvenient. The grey visor also isn’t as effective as other visors at blocking glare during the day.
Durability
The Lebogner is made with longevity in mind, boasting a construction of shatterproof material that’s intended to last for years.
Usability
The extender is compatible with most vehicles due to its simple installation. You just clip the Lebogner to your car’s visor and you’re ready to go!
The downside is that dealing with two panels all the time can be difficult since you have to make sure that whenever you use one panel, the other isn’t in the way. You might have to remove one of the panels sometimes to make the Lebogner easier to handle. Alternatively, you could take it down and flip it over. The extender also doesn’t come with instructions on how to address these issues.
Effectiveness
Both of the Lebogner’s panels block over 90% of UV rays and are made to reduce glare. Unfortunately, the grey panel meant for daytime use isn’t as glare resistant as it could be, so you might have to wear sunglasses while driving on sunny days.

Pros
Easy installation and compatible with most vehicles
Shatterproof material enhances durability
Blocks over 90% of UV rays

Cons
Doesn’t come with instructions
Grey panel (the one used during the day) isn’t as effective as it could be
Can be awkward to always manage two panels

9. Best 2-Pack: TFY Car Visor

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The TFY Car Visor is our final product on this list that offers good all-around performance in our ratings. Plus, you get two visor extenders with this purchase, so you don’t have to worry about getting your money’s worth!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-19.29” x 5.12-7.68”
The TFY Car Visor shares many of the same strengths as the other TFY product on our list, the TFY Sunshade Extender, as well as some of its weaknesses. It offers an easy, no-tools-required installation and effectively blocks glare and UV rays. It also tucks nicely away above the visor when it’s not being used.
On the downside, the polycarbonate sliders can be difficult to push and pull. You’ll have to manipulate them slowly and gently so that they don’t get stuck, so you should get the extender set up the way you want before you start driving. Like the other TFY product we’ve discussed, the TFY Car Visor isn’t all that good-looking either.
Durability
The TFY Car Visor is made of polyurethane and has polycarbonate sliders. Like its fellow TFY products, it’ll last you for a while, but there are more durable options available.
Usability
The TFY Car Visor is mostly user-friendly with its no-tools-required installation process and ability to fit above your car’s built-in visor when you’re not using it. The extender’s only significant disadvantage in this category is that it can be hard to move the sliders in and out as they might get stuck. You’ll want to set the extender up before you start driving.
Effectiveness
The extender is great at blocking glare and UV rays, so you can count on it to make your drives safer and less stressful.

Pros
Fast, easy installation
Easy to store when not in use
Blocks glare and UV rays

Cons
Sliders can be frustrating to extend and retract
Not the prettiest sun visor extender

10. Best for Nighttime: Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender is another nice 2-in-1 option, providing a gray shield for daytime use and a yellow shield for nighttime use. Its simple installation and wide compatibility range earn it a spot on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.7” x 4.7”
Rounding off our list is one last mid-range option, the Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender. It has two screens, one dark gray shield meant for daytime use and one yellow shield meant for nighttime use. The gray shield blocks 97.4% of UV rays and resists glare. The installation process is simple since you just clip the extender onto the car’s built-in visor. The adjustable clip also provides a sizable compatibility range for the product as well.
On the other hand, the daytime shield often isn’t as strong as it should be, possibly because the material for both shields is pretty thin. You should also exercise caution when using the product since the shields can easily get scratched or cracked.
Durability
The Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender has a joint polypropylene and thermoplastic rubber composition, and it’s heat-resistant. The problem is that the screens are easy to crack or scratch, so be careful when you adjust the extender or bring anything near it.
Usability
The installation process is quite easy: just clip the extender onto your car’s built-in visor. The clip’s adjustment range of 4.5-7.5” grants it compatibility with most vehicles. Unfortunately, the product doesn’t come with any instructions, so finding solutions to any problems you encounter with the product’s use can be difficult.
Effectiveness
The dark gray shield has its pluses and minuses. It blocks 97.4% of UV light, but it also isn’t as good at blocking sunlight and glare as other extenders on our list. The yellow night shield is great at reducing glare from streetlights and headlights, however.

Pros
Great at blocking UV rays
Wide compatibility range
Easy installation

Cons
No instructions provided
Screens can get scratched and/or cracked easily
Gray daytime visor not as effective as it could be

Your Guide to Sun Visor Extenders

A good sun visor extender can make your car trips much more comfortable and safe, which is why it’s a shame that so many drivers choose to go without them and suffer from the harsh sun. Read on for a discussion about the benefits a sun visor extender can provide as well as some suggestions on how to find the best one for your needs.
Sun Visor Extenders Help Keep You Healthy and Comfortable
Let’s face it: having the sun in your eyes during your daily work commute is the worst. Not only is it annoying, but it’s unsafe and harmful to your eyes and skin in the long term.
For one thing, bright sunlight and glare can obstruct your view of the road, which increases your risk of getting into an accident. Additionally, long-term overexposure to UV rays from the sun presents serious health risks, which we’ll discuss in more detail shortly.
Luckily, many of the products we talked about on our list can reduce glare and block UV rays, like the SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender or the Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender, among others.
Sun visor extenders also reduce eye strain since you won’t have to squint and stare so intently when the sun is facing you. Not to mention, being able to clearly see the road at all times makes driving less stressful. Any way you look at it, sun visor extenders are a worthwhile investment.
How to Find the Right Sun Visor Extender for You
The first step to determining which extender you should buy is to choose between window-mounted and visor-mounted.
If the sun is usually off to one side during your drives, then choose a window-mounted extender like the TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor. If the sun is front of you even some of the time, you should get a visor-mounted extender since they can alternate between covering the windshield or side window.
For visor-mounted extenders, you have to choose whether you want an option with a size-adjustable screen and if you want it to be transparent or opaque.
Usually, non-adjustable extenders are transparent, and they’re a good choice if they’re large enough to cover the area you need. The first two choices on our list fit these requirements as do the Lebogner Sun Visor and the Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender.
On the other hand, size-adjustable extenders tend to be opaque. As long as you can still see the road while using them, they’re a great choice, especially since you can alter the area they cover as needed. The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is a fine example. The SAILEAD Polycarbonate is an exception to this trend as the bottom slider is transparent, so you can get the benefits of an adjustable visor extender while maintaining a clear view of the road.
FAQ
What Are UV Rays and Why Are They Bad?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a product of ultraviolet radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic radiation produced by the sun and a variety of human-made devices. While UV rays do have some health benefits, such as helping the human body produce Vitamin D, they pose several severe health risks.
Most notably, overexposure to UV rays can increase your risk of skin cancer, whether they came from the sun or a human-made source like tanning beds/booths. Other possible health issues include sunburn, premature skin aging, impaired vision, and a weakened immune system.
If you want to know more about UV rays, you can see what the CDC has to say. For a specific discussion on the health risks they pose, check out this article.
What’s the Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays?
You may have noticed throughout this guide that we sometimes made the distinction between UVA and UVB rays, and you might wonder what distinguishes them from each other. The differences between the two types of rays are shown in how much energy they have and how much of a health risk they present.
UVA rays have less energy than UVB rays, but they represent most of the UV radiation on Earth since they’re not absorbed by the ozone layer. UVB rays are stronger and present a more immediate health threat since they cause sunburns and most skin cancers. Thankfully, the ozone layer absorbs most UVB radiation, but some does reach Earth’s surface.
There’s also UVC rays, but the ozone layer blocks them from approaching Earth’s surface at all, so you only need to worry about those coming from human-made sources of UV radiation.
Given that you’re far more likely to encounter UVA and UVB rays, it’s important that you seek out a sun visor extender that’s made to block them.
What Are the Benefits of Polarized Film/Lenses?
Polarized film/lenses serve to reduce sun glare, improve visual clarity and reduce their user’s eye strain. They’re chemically treated to stop some light from passing through them, which means everything you see looks darker, crisper and more detailed. As a result, your eyes are less tired after hours of staring at surfaces that produce glare like car windows or bumpers.
However, there are situations when polarized film/lenses shouldn’t be used. They make it harder for you to see LCD screens like cell phones, ATMs and dashboard controls. You also shouldn’t use them at night or in other low-light situations since polarized lenses already darken your vision somewhat.
For more information, read the AAO’s post on the topic. You can also read this article which discusses how they differ from UV-protected lenses and offers some alternatives to polarized lenses.
Don’t Let the Sun Bother You Anymore
Driving with the sun constantly in your eyes can be unpleasant and, in the long term, harmful. Luckily, there are lots of great sun visor extenders available that help make your drives safer and more comfortable. You just have to find one that works for you. Drive safe! More

There is nothing quite like the heart pounding feeling of a good car audio system blasting the bass as you drive down the street. While the sound systems included in vehicles have improved significantly over the years, a stock audio system is simply not enough for people who want to truly feel every beat of their favorite music. To accomplish this goal, you need to install powerful subwoofers.
While subwoofers for your car audio system can come in sizes typically ranging from 8’’ to 15’’, the 10’’ option offers an ideal combination of powerful bass while maintaining clarity at all levels. As any audiophile can tell you, there are many things that will impact the overall sound of your car audio system. Keep reading for our top picks for subwoofers in 2020.

Essential Information for Choosing 10’’ Subwoofers
When shopping for subwoofers of any type, you will see a lot of different specs that you need to compare. Understanding each of the following factors will help you make the right decision.
Power Handling
The amount of power that your subwoofer can handle is one of the most important things to check. This will be listed in watts and will generally be rated by two separate numbers. Most speaker companies market their equipment based on the max power they can handle. While important, the max power capacity of a speaker rarely actually comes into play while in use. The truly important number is the RMS rating, which is the amount of continuous power that a subwoofer can handle without distortion.
Enclosure Options
Subwoofers need to be mounted in a case, or box, before being used. The specific box that is used will have a significant impact on how it sounds and where it can be placed in your vehicle. Some subwoofers come already mounted from the factory, and others will need to have the mounting box purchased separately and then secured into it.
While a subwoofer can technically be used with no box, it will not sound nearly as good and it will be very vulnerable to damage. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you avoid doing this. Our full buyer’s guide below has a section on the various Types of Enclosures available. Make sure to check it out to get the right one.
Voice Coils
You will have the option for either a single voice coil (SVC) subwoofer, or a dual voice coil (DVC). This refers to the number of inputs available for you to wire to the amp. While technically speaking a DVC subwoofer is better, it may not always be worth the extra expense. If you are going to be purchasing just one subwoofer for your sound system, an SVC model will be just fine in almost all cases. When using two or more subwoofers, the added expense of a DVC is worth it.
Taking the time to pick out the right subwoofers based on your budget, the type of music you enjoy, and how hard hitting you want the bass to be will get you great results. Below you will find the top ten 10’’ subwoofers available today. Read through each one to find the option that will best meet your needs.

Top 10 Best 10 Inch Subwoofers 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Rockford Fosgate R2D4 Prime

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This speaker delivers deep, powerful bass that is crystal clear. It is an exceptional subwoofer for a very reasonable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 250 Watt RMS, 500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
In the world of car audio, there are few names as iconic as Rockford Fosgate. They have been making incredible subwoofers for many years, and this is a great example. The R2D4 subwoofer is the choice of many car audio enthusiasts. It delivers extraordinarily deep bass when you want that hard hitting sound, but can also deliver the clarity you need no matter what type of music you are listening to. Perhaps most importantly, this is a very reliable subwoofer that will provide you with the sound you want for years to come.
With 250-watt RMS and 500-watt max power, this is not the most powerful subwoofer on the list. This means you are not going to get the ear-splitting volume out of this option. Instead, you will get a superb balance of volume, ‘punch’, and clarity.
If you are simply looking to push the power to the max, consider the Planet Audio AC10D subwoofer, which boasts a 1500 watt max power level. If you want added volume without sacrificing on audio clarity, we recommend installing two of these subwoofers. You won’t be disappointed.

Pros
Perfect balance of hard-hitting bass and audio clarity
Made by the iconic Rockford Fosgate company
Dual voice coils

Cons
Relatively low power handling

2. Best Premium Pick: Skar Audio VD-10 D2

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This is a workhorse of a subwoofer that can provide you with endless hours of strong, clear bass.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 500 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
This subwoofer from Skar Audio is made from very durable materials and can stand up to a ton of abuse. While it may not break any records in any specific area, it will absolutely rattle your windows every time you turn on your system and crank the volume.
One thing you might notice is that the RMS is well over half of the max watt for power handling. This is a great example of just how durable this sub really is. It can perform for hours on end at higher power levels than most other subs are rated for, which is exactly what many people will want.
Another great benefit of this sub is that it is a shallow mount model, which means you can install it in an enclosure that is quite a bit thinner than many other options. This provides you with additional options for placement and configuration. As a dual voice coil sub you will likely want to install two of these in one vehicle to get the best sound possible. Overall, there is a ton to love about this subwoofer and very little to be disappointed in.

Pros
Very high RMS compared to max power limits
Shallow mount subwoofer
Extremely durable

Cons
Does not outperform other top subs in any areas

3. Best Pre-Mounted: Kicker 10” Vented Thin Profile Subwoofer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This woofer comes pre-mounted in a thin profile enclosure, allowing it to fit easily under or behind a seat and it is also very easy to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 300 Watt RMS, 600 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
The Kicker brand of subwoofers lives up to its name in that when the bass hits, you really feel like you are getting kicked in the chest, which is exactly what you want. This particular model can handle plenty of power to give you the volume and punch you desire.
While most people purchasing this subwoofer will primarily be listening to bass heavy music, the sound clarity is absolutely good enough to compliment any genre of music that you enjoy.
What really sets this option apart from many others is the fact that it comes pre-mounted in a low-profile enclosure. It can fit easily behind the seats in just about any vehicle, or flush against the trunk wall if you prefer. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, you could even slide it under your driver’s seat so you can really feel it every time the bass hits. Installing this sub under or behind the driver’s seat is a great option, though it will produce an uneven sound for other passengers.
To have balanced audio throughout the vehicle you will either want to mount it in the center of the trunk or install two subwoofers. If you are going with two subs, you should consider an option that has dual voice coils, such as the Rockford Fosgate R2D4.

Pros
Pre-mounted in a low-profile enclosure
Excellent sound quality
Able to produce sharp, pounding bass

Cons
Single voice coil

4. Best All-in-One: Rockville RW10CA Slim Subwoofer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This subwoofer is enclosed in a case that also comes with its own amplifier.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 200 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
If you want to add strong bass to your car audio system, but you do not want to have to go through a complex installation process, this is a great option for you. The Rockville RW10CA is another pre-mounted subwoofer, but this one comes with an extra bonus. Within the enclosure is a built-in amplifier that serves to provide the sub with the steady stream of power that it needs. With most other subwoofers, you need to buy the amp separately. Surprisingly, this has not resulted in the price rising significantly.
While this subwoofer boasts an 800-watt max power limit, the RWS limit is only 200. This would be more of a concern if you were using a separate amplifier, but since the built-in model is made specifically for this speaker, it is fine.
This actual audio quality on this subwoofer is not as crisp as you will find on other options such as the JL Audio 10W3v3, but it will be a huge upgrade compared to any stock system. If you are like the vast majority of people and not looking to win any car audio competitions or an audiophile with perfect pitch, this subwoofer is an ideal option at an excellent price.

Pros
Amplifier included in the enclosure
Very slim enclosure ideal for under-seat installation
Easy installation

Cons
Low RMS compared to max power

5. Best Budget Pick: BOSS Audio CXX Car Subwoofer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Simply put, the price. We were shocked at just how inexpensive this model is while still producing very respectable bass levels.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 400 Watt RMS | 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
When most people talk about car audio in general and subwoofers specifically, they discuss how to get the most powerful bass or the clearest overall audio. The fact is, however, for many people, these things just aren’t that important.
In many cases, the goal is to get a big upgrade to their vehicle’s stock system without spending a huge amount of money. If that is what you are looking for, it will be hard to find a better option than this.
The BOSS Audio CXX subwoofer will dramatically out-perform the stock audio systems in all but the very highest end of vehicles. The sound quality is very respectable, and you will get a bass hit that is unmistakable.
Sure, you aren’t going to get the precision or punch that you would find on something like the Rockford Fosgate R2D4, but you will love the upgrade none the less. Not only are these subs very inexpensive, but they can easily be powered by a smaller amplifier, which will save you even more.

Pros
Very inexpensive
Significant improvement over stock speakers
Can be run on a low-cost amplifier

Cons
Cannot handle huge amounts of power
Does not hit as hard as other subwoofers

6. Most Powerful: Planet Audio AC10D 1500-Watt Subwoofer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This is a true powerhouse, boasting a 1500 watt max power that pushes out incredible volume for a 10’’ subwoofer.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 750 Watt RMS, 1500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coil
If you love those sideways glances that you see from the vehicles next to you (or even across the road) because your bass is pounding, this subwoofer is a great option. It is one of the most powerful subs you will find before having to move up to a 12’’ or 15’’ model.
Despite the huge power capacity, the price on these subwoofers is still very inexpensive. Just keep in mind, however, that if you want to get the full performance out of these subs, you will need a powerful amplifier installed as well, which will bump your total price up quite a bit.
As a dual voice coil subwoofer, you should purchase two of these subwoofers and have them enclosed into a single box. We recommend installing them into a box that is ported with the subs clearly displayed when you open the trunk. This is because this model uses a flexible foam material that has great excursion, meaning the speaker moves more than other models, which looks really impressive when showing them off.
While there is a lot to love about this sub, it is no surprise that a low-cost model that can take this much power is not going to have perfect sound quality. Don’t worry, the sheer volume and punch of the bass will more than compensate.

Pros
Can handle huge amounts of power
Great excursion for visibly appealing display
Surprisingly affordable

Cons
Sound quality is somewhat lacking

7. Best Audio Quality: JL Audio 10W3v3

View on Amazon
Why we like it: One of the best sounding subwoofers on the market today.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 250 Watt RMS, 500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
There is no doubt that the JL Audio brand makes exceptional equipment, and this model in particular will give you some of the cleanest, most heart pounding bass you will find anywhere. On top of having incredibly crisp and clear sound quality, this sub is also visually appealing. If you install it in a great enclosure, your vehicle’s audio system will look as sleek as it sounds.
The one big problem with this subwoofer is the price. It costs far more than other subs on this list, and the extra expense just isn’t justified. If you are Bill Gates and money is truly no object, you may as well move up to larger subwoofers at a premium level. If you are in any way worried about cost, this model is just too much. Anyone who absolutely has to have a 10’’ subwoofer and doesn’t care about money, however, will be very happy with this model.

Pros
Truly premium quality sound
Made from excellent materials
Will produce window rattling bass without distortion

Cons
Very expensive

8. Best Kit With Two Subwoofers: Belva 1000-Watt Complete Car Subwoofer Setup

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This kit includes everything you need to setup a full dual subwoofer audio system in your vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 500 Watt RMS, 1000 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
This is another all-in-one kit that includes everything you need to get your car audio system bumping. The big perk of choosing this one is that it comes with two 10’’ subwoofers installed in an attractive ported box. It also comes with the amplifier, so you do not need to purchase it separately. If you are looking for a simple upgrade to your car audio system, you won’t find anything that is much easier than this model.
If you are looking for premium quality and precision bass, these subs likely aren’t the right option for you. Instead, consider piecing together your own system using higher end subs such as the Rockford Fosgate R2D4. If you just want a good overall system that is easy to use, however, the Belva system will more than suffice.
This system even comes with a remote bass control that you can mount on your dash or near your seat to get precision control of your system, which is a great feature. If you do go with this system, let us recommend that you purchase some audio wiring rather than using the included wires, which aren’t of the best quality. This will give you an improved power flow, which translates to better sound.

Pros
Comes with everything you need
An easy and affordable way to upgrade your car audio system
Very attractive setup

Cons
Lower quality sound
Should buy better wires for installation

9. Most Durable: BOSS Audio Systems Elite BE10D

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Great well-rounded subwoofer that can handle lots of power.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 400 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
This is another nice subwoofer from BOSS Audio Systems. The main difference between this one and the BOSS Audio Systems CXX10 model is that this one has dual voice coils and the other is a single. Of course, the DVC option is going to be more expensive, and you should generally purchase them in pairs to get the full advantage. The quality of this subwoofer is quite high, though certainly not a premium option.
If you are looking to upgrade your current system and want to add a couple of good quality subs that can handle plenty of power, you will likely be very happy with this model. The bass produced by these subs is deep and strong, but not quite as clear as you will find on some of the higher-end options. While these speakers won’t be damaged when you turn the volume way up and hit the bass, there will be some noticeable distortion. If you just plan on listening to your music at reasonable (though still very loud) volumes, the sound quality is more than sufficient.

Pros
Can handle up to 800 watts of power
Affordable dual voice coil subwoofer
Made of durable materials

Cons
Some bass distortion at max volume

10. Best Stock Replacement: Studio Pro 10’’ Car Subwoofer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Very inexpensive subwoofer that will serve as a good replacement for stock systems.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 150 Watt RMS, 300 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
This is a low-cost subwoofer that can be used to replace the stock subs that you have in your vehicle’s system. While you will need to look at the specs of your vehicle, you likely will not need to have an additional amplifier to power this sub since quality stock systems produce enough power on their own. Whether you are replacing a blown subwoofer in your stock system or adding this sub to get a little extra bass, you should be happy with the results.
Given the price and materials found on this model you really can’t expect to get the earth-shattering bass that other subs can produce. That being said, many people aren’t really looking for that anyway. Anyone looking to dip their toes into improved car audio or wanting to replace existing subs in their vehicle will find this to be a great place to start without risking much money.

Pros
Not very expensive
Likely won’t require an amplifier

Cons
Can’t handle too much power
Lower sound quality

Everything You Need to Know About Buying 10’’ Subwoofers for Your Car Audio System

Purchasing and installing new subwoofers in your vehicle is a significant investment. Not only do you need the subs themselves, but also the proper wiring, enclosure, amplifier, and more. You may even be purchasing a new deck and other components. Getting the right subwoofers will help ensure the end result looks and sounds just the way you want it.
The best way to make sure you make the right purchase for your situation is to learn more about this type of speaker, and how it is installed in your vehicle. Read through this guide to get a strong understanding of everything you need to know. If you are already familiar with the basics of car audio, just skip to the section that you need to learn more about so you can avoid any mistakes.
Amplifier for Your Subwoofer
All subwoofers need a lot of electricity in order to produce the powerful bass that you desire. In most stock car audio systems, the power comes from your vehicle’s electrical system, into the stereo deck, and then out to the various speakers. While this is fine for basic speaker systems, the deck cannot handle subwoofers that often need anywhere from 300 to 1500 watts of power at a time. This is where car audio amplifiers are required.
Amplifiers for car audio systems are quite complex and need to be handled properly. If you are not familiar with them, you will want to take the time to learn about car audio amps before making a purchase. The following, however, are the key aspects of amplifiers so you know what to look for when buying one.
Power Capacity
Similar to the subwoofers themselves, an amp is going to be rated based on how many watts of power it can feed per channel. Manufacturers will typically list the limits both in RMS (max continuous flow of power) and max watts.
While it might seem safer to have an amp that provides no more than the max watts that your subwoofer can handle, that is not the case. Insufficient power to a speaker can actually damage it just as much as far too much power. With this in mind, it is recommended that you choose an amp that can produce about 100-150% of the RMS watts of your subwoofers.
Power Source
If you are installing an amp that needs 600 or more watts of power, you need to upgrade your vehicle’s battery. This can be done either by swapping the existing battery out with a premium option, or better yet, install a second car battery that is dedicated to the audio system.
Number of Channels
Each amplifier will have a specific number of channels, which is how many ports are available to plug in speakers. Most people will connect one speaker to one channel. This means you need at least one channel per speaker you will be powering. There are a variety of other ways to hook things up, however, so just be aware that you have plenty of options. If you are only wanting to run your subwoofers through the amp, all you need is one channel per sub for the easiest installation.
Heat Production
Amplifiers have large amounts of electricity running through them. During peak use, they can get very hot, which has the potential to be a fire hazard. While you generally want to install the amp in an out of the way location, so it does not get damaged. Equally important is making sure that it is in a spot that is not near flammable objects so that it can operate safely.
Positioning Your Subwoofers
Before you purchase your subwoofers, you should know exactly where in your vehicle they will be installed. The options will depend on what type of vehicle you have, how many subwoofers you plan on purchasing, and other factors. While the specifics will vary slightly based on these things, the following are the main options you have available to you.
In the Trunk
The trunk is the most common place for your subwoofers. This area will give you plenty of room for a full-size enclosure for the subs. When going with this option, the type of enclosure will have a big impact on the quality of the sound your subs produce. We cover the various types of enclosures below in detail to help you to pick the right one.
Many people who are new to car audio mistakenly believe that having the subs in the trunk will distort or muffle the sound, but that is not the case. This location actually has the potential to provide you with the best overall sound quality.
Behind the Seat
Placing subwoofers behind the driver’s and/or passenger’s seat is a great option as it will really allow you to feel it when the bass hits. This is most commonly done in small sports cars or trucks with no cab since the speakers would make it difficult for passengers to fit in the back seats. In addition to really feeling the bass, this setup has the subs in the same area as the people in the vehicle, which can increase the overall volume.
Under the Seat
If you purchase a low-profile subwoofer, such as the Rockville RW10CA you can slide it directly under the seats of the vehicle. This directs the full power of the bass up and through the seat, which many people love. This option is great because it does not take up any usable room in the vehicle, and it is very easy to run the wiring since it does not have to travel as far as if the subs were in the trunk.
Replace Stock Speakers
The last, and least common, option is to purchase subwoofers to replace stock speakers in your vehicle. Some SUVs and other larger vehicles will have stock speakers that are large enough to be replaced by 10’’ subwoofers without any trouble. This option may require you to make some alterations to your vehicle’s seats, doors, or other areas so make sure you do everything properly to avoid causing damage.
Types of Enclosures
The type of enclosure used for your subwoofers is going to have a huge impact on not only the way they sound, but also the way they look. Some custom-made subwoofer enclosures can be true works of art that make your vehicle look amazing. Some are just functional boxes cut out of basic plywood.
The look of the enclosure can vary greatly, but there are generally just four options when it comes to the design that you need to choose from.
Sealed Enclosures
Sealed enclosures are basically just a hollowed-out box that has a hole the size of the subwoofer. The subwoofer is placed into the hole, facing out, and secured in place. The electrical wires are fed into the enclosure and hooked up, then the wire hole is sealed up. This option is best known for people who want ‘tight’ bass.
If you aren’t sure which type of enclosure you want to use, this option is an excellent place to start. They are typically inexpensive, and they have very few problems. They are also easy to make, if you want to go that route. You will find that they also produce a great sound that most people love.
Ported Enclosures
Ported enclosures, which are sometimes called vented, tuned, or bass reflex enclosures are quite similar to a sealed enclosure except there is one opening. This is typically a circular opening, sometimes with a plastic tube going into the box. The port size is determined by the size of the subwoofer. If it is too big or small, it will cause problems with the sound as it comes out. Ported enclosures can produce greater volume for the same amount of power, which is why they are desirable.
Single and Reflex Enclosures
Both the single and double reflex enclosures have the normal box with the subwoofer mounted in it, and then an additional box in the front. This makes it so you can’t actually see the sub at all unless the box is made with plexiglass (which is quite common).
On a single reflex enclosure only the box in front of the subwoofer is ported. With a double reflex enclosure both the box that has the sub and the front box are ported. These types of enclosures are also known as bandpass enclosures and operate very efficiently in that they are able to produce a huge amount of sound with lower amounts of power.
Get the Heart Pounding Bass You Need
There is a lot to know about subwoofers, and it can take quite a bit of time and effort to install them properly into your vehicle. The first time you switch on your new car audio system and pump up the volume, however, you will know that it was all worth the effort.
A powerful subwoofer can provide you with a car audio experience that you just cannot find anywhere else. Now that you know everything you need to make the right decision, review our top 10’’ subwoofers list to pick out the ones that you want for your new system. More