Bak Vortrak vs RetraxPro Tonneau Cover

For those who are consistently working out of their truck bed space, a retractable tonneau cover seems a perfect solution for them to rely on. In short, this is a covering device that is installed on the truck bed top to prevent the carriage part from every possible external casualty.

In most cases, this is smoothly retractable on the bed. But there are some other models which can be covered up by folding panels. In this article, we are discussing two popular American retractable tonneau cover brands; Bak Vortrak and RetraxPRO MX.

If you’re looking for a tough, durable tonneau cover that will protect your truck bed and your cargo, you may be wondering whether the Bak Vortrak or the RetraxPro is the right choice for you. Both of these covers are made of heavy-duty materials and offer excellent protection against the elements and potential thieves. But there are some key differences between them that you’ll want to consider before making your final decision.

The Bak Vortrak is made of aluminum, while the RetraxPro is constructed from powder-coated steel. This makes the RetraxPro slightly heavier than the Vortrak, but also more resistant to damage. The Vortrak’s aluminum construction does make it more rust-resistant than the RetraxPro, however.

Another key difference is in the way that the two covers open and close. The Bak Vortrak has a manual locking system that requires you to unlock it before you can open it, while the RetraxPro features an electric motor that opens and closes the cover automatically. This makes the RetraxPro more convenient to use, but it also means that it’s more expensive.

Finally, you’ll need to decide whether you want a cover that completely encloses your truck bed or one that leaves the sides exposed. The Bak Vortrak covers the entire bed, while the RetraxPro only covers the top of the bed. This means that if you’re carrying tall or bulky cargo, you’ll need to open the RetraxPro cover in order to access it.

So, which is the better choice for you? It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a tough, durable cover that’s easy to use, the RetraxPro is a great option. But if you’re on a budget or you need a cover that leaves the sides of your truck bed exposed, the Bak Vortrak is a good choice. Whichever one you choose, you can be sure that your truck bed and cargo will be well-protected.

Bak Vortrak vs RetraxPro Table

Bak Vortrak	RetraxPro

No-Drill Installation	Easy No Drill Installation
Matte Black Powder Coat Finish	Durable Matte Powder Coat Finish
Constructed From 1/2” Thick Aluminum Slats	Constructed From Heavy-Duty Aluminum Slats
Drain Tubes Included	Water Drainage System Available
Cover Can Be Locked in 2 Additional Spots	Aluminum Panels Can Support up to 500 Lbs
Comes With 2 Year Warranty	Comes with Limited Lifetime Warranty
Powder Coat Finish Offers Great Scratch Resistance and UV Protection	Allows to Be Used With 5th Wheel Hitches
Allowing Easy Open and Closing Operation All From the Rear of the Truck Bed	This Cover Can Be Locked in Place Anywhere Along the Truck Bed by Latch or Key
Check price on Amazon	Check price on Amazon
Check price on Walmart	Check price on Walmart
Check price on Ebay	Check price on Ebay

Why Compare

Once you pay for a device, it is done. Before that, you should always check if this would be the right fit for you; especially when there are many brands with very different solutions for a specific problem. Here our experts will cover up the similarities and differences between two popular retractable tonneau cover manufacturers, Bak and RetraxPRO.

This discussion focuses on some key points: Material used, Design and exterior, Functionality, Installation and Warranty, and brand value. Let’s jump on this.

Material

Aluminum is the most commonly used material for the hard retractable tonneau cover industry. Bak Vortrak uses extruded 1/2-inch thick aluminum slats to produce a durable and robust design. The side rails are also made of a heavy-duty aluminum angle bar. Thick alloy hard slats remain composed by the interlocking mechanism to ensure a tight bond sealing and dent-free plain surface on the truck top.

On the other hand, as part of the premium aluminum series- RetraxPRO MX is constructed from industrial-strength aluminum slats to provide super strength and ruggedness. To hold the sealed ball-bearing rollers, it used aluminum rails to glide effortlessly along with it.

Design and Exterior

The mounting rails of Bak Vortrak sit flush on the truck’s bed to provide a low-profile design. The side railing bars also remain hidden just inside the truck side rail. Everything on top is covered up with a matte black powder coat finish. It helps the surface create a secure, scratch-resistant barrier and UV protection.

Whereas, RetraxPRO comes with a chrome, painted, and polished exterior with a premium matte powder coat finish. Their patented very low-profile design stays flush with the truck bed by incorporating a front cover. Like the other one, it allows better weather protection and looks stunning as well.

Functionality

Though both of the cover models are presented in the market using very similar technology, we have already found many similarities between these two. But in terms of functionality, we found some major differences to look upon. Let’s start with the retracting mechanism.

Bak Vortrak combines the surface slats using a spring-loaded canister. A pull strap is attached at the rear of the cover to operate the 90 pounds total weighted device. Thanks to the compact design which confirms more hauling room in the bed space.

Along with full access, the cover can be locked in two additional places depending on your need. A convenient release cable is located underneath the rear of the cover. No one can access the bed space as long as your tailgate is locked. For better weather protection, this model introduces a drain tube.

RetraxPRO designed a ball-bearing roller system with an expedient handle instead of using pull straps, velcro, snaps, or springs. This design is key lockable in any position which allows much easier operation and unlimited flexibility in your hauling capacity. This around 90 pounds device can carry up to 500 lbs. of evenly distributed weight on the top of the cover.

Installation

Both of the models can be installed without using any drill or power tools. It takes nearly an hour to finish the installation by using the help of a manufacturer-provided manual guide. Depending on the different car manufacturers, the mounting system is fully adjustable.

Warranty

Both of the models are proudly manufactured in the United States of America. This confirms almost the same brand value though RetraxPRO is a bit popular among auto lovers. Besides, Bak Vortrak is covered by a two-year warranty, while the other backed you up with a Legendary Lifetime Guarantee. It is almost everything you might find helpful when you are planning to go for a retractable tonneau cover model. Let us know if you think of any points we miss here.