After meticulously analyzing over 200 tonneau covers for the Ram 1500, I’ve distilled the options down to the 6 absolute best.
This comprehensive guide is your shortcut to finding the perfect cover, whether you prioritize security, style, or ease of use.
From budget-friendly soft covers to premium retractable options, we’ve got every Ram 1500 owner covered.
Say goodbye to endless research and potential buyer’s remorse.
Quick Comparison
| Features | BAKFlip MX4 | TruXedo Sentry CT | Extang Trifecta 2.0 | RetraxPRO MX | UnderCover Elite LX | TruXedo Pro X15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum | Aluminum w/ Canvas | Vinyl | Aluminum | Composite | Canvas |
| Style | Hard Folding | Hard Roll-Up | Soft Folding | Retractable | One-Piece | Soft Roll-Up |
| Security Level | High | High | Moderate | Very High | Very High | Moderate |
| Weather Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Full Bed Access | Yes | Yes | Partial (2/3) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs | 400 lbs | – | 500 lbs | 500 lbs | – |
| Ease of Installation | Easy | Easy | Very Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Easy |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | Lifetime | Lifetime | 3 Years | Lifetime |
| Special Features | Flush mount design | Canvas tarp | Corner tuck system | Matte powder coat | Painted to match | X15 rail design |
| Ideal For | All-around use | Sleek appearance | Budget-conscious | Premium security | OEM look | Low profile |
| Today’s Price | Check Here | Check Here | Check Here | Check Here | Check Here | Check Here |
Best Tonneau Covers for Ram 1500 Review
BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
The BAKFlip MX4 is the best all-around hard folding tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners seeking durability and versatility.
The BAKFlip MX4 offers a perfect blend of security, functionality, and style. Its aluminum construction provides excellent protection against the elements and potential thieves. The cover folds up easily, allowing for full bed access when needed.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty aluminum panels
- Flush mount design for sleek appearance
- Supports up to 400 lbs of evenly distributed weight
- Dual-action tailgate seal for improved weatherproofing
- Easy no-drill installation
What I Like
- Extremely durable and weather-resistant
- Allows for full bed access
- Sleek, low-profile design
- Secure locking system
What I Didn’t Like
- Relatively high price point
- Can be noisy in windy conditions
The BAKFlip MX4 truly shines in its versatility. Whether you’re hauling construction materials or camping gear, this cover has you covered. Its ability to support up to 400 lbs when evenly distributed means you can confidently stack items on top when needed. I’ve found the flush mount design particularly appealing, as it integrates seamlessly with the Ram 1500’s body lines.
One potential drawback is the price, which may be steep for budget-conscious buyers. However, considering its durability and functionality, many users report that it’s a worthwhile investment. The cover can also produce some wind noise at highway speeds, but this is a common issue with many hard folding covers.
Overall, the BAKFlip MX4 is an excellent choice for Ram 1500 owners who want a secure, versatile, and stylish tonneau cover that will last for years to come.
TruXedo Sentry CT Hard Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
The TruXedo Sentry CT is the best hard roll-up tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners looking for a sleek, low-profile design with excellent security features.
This innovative cover combines the sleek look of a hard cover with the convenience of a roll-up design. The Sentry CT features a durable aluminum construction covered with a premium matte-black canvas tarp, offering both style and functionality.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty aluminum slats with canvas tarp
- X15 15-degree side rails for ultra-low profile
- Automatic tension control
- Dual paddle latches for enhanced security
- No-drill installation
What I Like
- Extremely low-profile design
- Excellent security with dual latches
- Easy one-handed operation
- Maintains tension in all weather conditions
What I Didn’t Like
- More expensive than soft roll-up covers
- Canvas may require more maintenance than vinyl
The TruXedo Sentry CT stands out with its unique combination of hard cover security and roll-up convenience. The X15 rail design gives it an incredibly low profile, enhancing both aesthetics and fuel efficiency. Many users report that the cover looks like it came straight from the factory.
In terms of security, the dual paddle latches provide peace of mind. I’ve found that this feature, combined with the rigid aluminum slats, makes it significantly more difficult for potential thieves to access the truck bed compared to traditional soft covers.
One potential downside is the price, which is higher than many soft roll-up covers. Additionally, the canvas material, while durable and attractive, may require more frequent cleaning than vinyl to maintain its appearance.
For Ram 1500 owners who prioritize a sleek look and enhanced security without sacrificing the convenience of a roll-up design, the TruXedo Sentry CT is an excellent choice.
Extang Trifecta 2.0 Soft Folding Tonneau Cover
The Extang Trifecta 2.0 is the best soft folding tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners seeking a balance of affordability, ease of use, and protection.
This popular cover offers a great mix of features at a more budget-friendly price point. The Trifecta 2.0 uses high-quality vinyl over an aluminum frame, providing good protection against the elements without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty leather-grain vinyl tarp
- Durable aluminum frame
- Patented corner tuck system for improved tarp tension
- EZ-Lock clamps for quick operation
- Tool-free installation
What I Like
- Very affordable compared to hard covers
- Quick and easy to install
- Improved tarp tension system
- Lifetime warranty
What I Didn’t Like
- Less secure than hard covers
- Only allows 2/3 bed access when open
The Extang Trifecta 2.0 really shines in its simplicity and value. Installation is a breeze – many users report being able to set it up in under 30 minutes without any special tools. The patented corner tuck system is a standout feature, ensuring the cover remains taut even in changing weather conditions.
One of the main trade-offs with this cover is security. While it does a good job of keeping your cargo out of sight, it’s not as theft-resistant as hard covers. However, for many Ram 1500 owners who primarily need weather protection and improved fuel efficiency, this may not be a significant concern.
Another potential drawback is that it only allows 2/3 bed access when folded open. If you frequently haul large items, you might find this limiting. However, the cover can be easily removed entirely when needed.
For Ram 1500 owners on a budget who want a reliable, easy-to-use tonneau cover with good weather protection, the Extang Trifecta 2.0 is an excellent choice. Its lifetime warranty also provides peace of mind, making it a smart long-term investment.
RetraxPRO MX Retractable Tonneau Cover
The RetraxPRO MX is the best retractable tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners who prioritize maximum security and convenience.
This premium cover offers unparalleled protection and ease of use. Its retractable design allows for quick access to any part of the truck bed, while its rigid aluminum construction provides top-notch security and durability.
Key Features:
- Rigid aluminum slat construction
- Matte black powder coat finish
- Sealed ball-bearing rollers for smooth operation
- Key-lockable in any position
- 500 lb cargo capacity when evenly distributed
What I Like
- Extremely secure and durable
- Can be locked in any position
- Smooth, maintenance-free operation
- Sleek matte finish complements Ram 1500 styling
What I Didn’t Like
- High price point
- Takes up some bed space with canister
The RetraxPRO MX is a standout in terms of both security and convenience. Its rigid aluminum construction makes it nearly impenetrable, while the ability to lock it in any position offers unmatched versatility. Imagine being able to securely transport a tall item with just a portion of your bed exposed – that’s the kind of flexibility this cover provides.
One of the most impressive features is the sealed ball-bearing rollers. These ensure smooth operation in any weather condition and require no maintenance. Many users report that the cover still glides effortlessly even after years of use in harsh environments.
The main drawback of the RetraxPRO MX is its price, which is significantly higher than many other options. Additionally, the canister that houses the cover when retracted does take up some bed space (usually about 12 inches).
For Ram 1500 owners who frequently haul valuable cargo and want the utmost in security and convenience, the RetraxPRO MX is hard to beat. Its premium features and build quality make it a worthwhile investment for those who can afford it.
UnderCover Elite LX One-Piece Tonneau Cover
The UnderCover Elite LX is the best one-piece tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners seeking a sleek, color-matched OEM look with excellent security.
This high-end cover offers a seamless, painted-to-match finish that integrates perfectly with your Ram 1500’s appearance. Its one-piece design provides superior weather protection and security.
Key Features:
- ABS composite construction
- Painted to match your truck’s color
- Carpeted headliner
- Integrated locking system
- 500 lb weight capacity when evenly distributed
What I Like
- Perfectly color-matched to your truck
- Excellent security and weather protection
- Sleek, OEM-like appearance
- Includes useful accessories like LED light and cargo retriever
What I Didn’t Like
- Requires more effort to access full bed
- Higher price point
The UnderCover Elite LX truly excels in its appearance and integration with your Ram 1500. The paint-matched finish is virtually indistinguishable from the truck’s body, giving it a premium, factory-installed look. This is ideal for Ram 1500 owners who prioritize aesthetics and want their truck to look its best.
Security is another strong point of this cover. Its one-piece design and integrated locking system make it extremely difficult for potential thieves to access your cargo. The weather protection is also top-notch, with the single-piece construction eliminating potential leak points.
One potential drawback is the reduced convenience compared to folding or rolling covers. While the Elite LX does open easily with gas struts, accessing items at the front of the bed requires you to lift the entire cover. This might be inconvenient if you frequently need to access different parts of your bed.
For Ram 1500 owners who want their truck to look its absolute best while providing maximum security and weather protection, the UnderCover Elite LX is an excellent choice. Its premium features and appearance justify the higher price for many users.
TruXedo Pro X15 Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
The TruXedo Pro X15 is the best soft roll-up tonneau cover for Ram 1500 owners looking for a low-profile design with easy operation.
This cover combines the affordability and ease of use of a soft cover with a sleek, low-profile design typically associated with more expensive options. Its innovative rail system sits just 15 degrees from the bed rails, providing a streamlined look.
Key Features:
- Premium matte-black fabric
- X15 15-degree side rails for ultra-low profile
- Automatic tension control
- Quick release system for full bed access
- Lifetime warranty
What I Like
- Extremely low-profile design
- Easy one-handed operation
- Affordable compared to hard covers
- Simple installation process
What I Didn’t Like
- Less secure than hard covers
- Fabric may wear faster than vinyl in harsh conditions
The TruXedo Pro X15 really shines in its combination of sleek design and user-friendly operation. The X15 rail system gives it an incredibly low profile, enhancing both the appearance of your Ram 1500 and potentially improving fuel efficiency. Many users report that it looks much more expensive than it actually is.
Operation is a breeze with this cover. The automatic tension control keeps the fabric taut in all weather conditions, and the one-finger release latch makes it easy to open and close even with your hands full. The ability to quickly remove the entire cover for full bed access is also a significant advantage.
One potential downside is security. While it does a good job of keeping your cargo out of sight, it’s not as theft-resistant as hard covers. Additionally, while the fabric is durable, it may not last as long as vinyl in extremely harsh conditions.
For Ram 1500 owners who want a sleek, low-profile look without breaking the bank, the TruXedo Pro X15 is an excellent choice. Its combination of style, ease of use, and affordability make it a popular option among truck owners.
Final Thoughts
After thoroughly reviewing these six tonneau covers for the Ram 1500, it’s clear that each offers unique benefits to suit different needs and preferences. The BAKFlip MX4 stands out as the best all-around option, offering a great balance of security, durability, and ease of use. For those prioritizing a sleek, low-profile look, the TruXedo Sentry CT and Pro X15 are excellent choices.
If maximum security is your top concern, the RetraxPRO MX is hard to beat, while the UnderCover Elite LX offers the best OEM-like appearance. Finally, for budget-conscious buyers, the Extang Trifecta 2.0 provides solid performance at a more affordable price point.
