35 Percent Window Tint: Pros, Cons and Where To Buy

Everything you should know about 35 window tint, some before and after photos, how the tint looks at night time, some top brands to buy from.

What does 35% tint look like? 

While it is not the darkest tint available, 35 percent tint is a good balance between blocking out UV rays and helping with privacy when trying to view inside the vehicle. While you will still be able to view through the window, it will not be easy and will provide a good level of privacy and compliance. If you want to be sure you’re staying compliant with state tinting laws, 35% window tint is the way to go.

35 Window Tint Before and After Picture

Below is a before and after picture of a car that started with no window tint film and then added a 35% window tint so you can visualize the difference before and after the tint was added.

You can purchase 35 percent tint in various colors to match your vehicle. 

Below is an example photo of a car with 35% window tint applied to it.

How dark is 35% tint compared to other tint percents? 

35 percent tint is one of the most popular and preferred tint percentages.

While it is not the darkest shade available, 35% achieves a decent balance between blocking out the light and making it hard to see through your windows.

Drivers across the country choose 35 percent tint because of its sleek and aesthetically appearance combined with its ‘ nonissue darkness’ when law enforcement view it.

You can see in the picture below the VLT of several tinting options including 35 window tint as well as 5%, 15% and 50%

Can you see through 35% tint at night? 

Yes, you can see through 35 percent window tint at night. Tinting professionals will tell you that 35 window tint is an excellent compromise for both night and daytime driving will still give your car a tinted appearance.

A dark interior is beneficial. Twenty percent is approximately the darkest you can tint your windows and still see clearly on a gloomy night. 

In low-light situations, a hue that is too dark may make it more challenging to see your surroundings. Driving at night with a darker tint might also be risky. A dark night combined with dark window film can result in a severe lack of visibility.

How much does 35% tint cost? 

Installing 35% window tint on your vehicle may range from $150 to $600 for standard, non-reflective tint film.

If you want ‘the good stuff‘ your range will be closer to $250 to $800 for a more premium tint film, such as what you get with ceramic, carbon, or other specialized films.

Expect to spend extra on a vehicle with a larger number of windows.

If you need to remove your tint for whatever reason, you will have to pay for this service as well. This can cost anywhere from $25 to $200 or more. As you can see, a variety of factors will determine the price you’ll pay for 35% tint.

You can check pricing for 35 window tint rolls here.

35 Window Tint vs 20

Yes, you can see through the windows if you are close to the car with 20 percent tint applied, but, it will be tricky to see inside from a distance. As a result, most people will opt not to go with 20 tint.

With that said, 20 tint will certainly make your automobile look darker, allowing you to enjoy more privacy.

35 percent tinting is preferable to 20 percent tint since it easily allows you to see through the windows while you are driving regardless of the time of day.

The Best 35 Window Tint To Buy:

MKBROTHER 35% Window Tint

If you want a window tint with a medium shade, this is the perfect one for you. The tint used in MKBROTHER is sufficient for the tint permitted in most states, yet it is deep enough to protect you from intense heat and UV radiation. It is very simple to install since all that is required is a sharp cutter and hard plastic to compress water when installing it. It’s inexpensive and available in lengths ranging from 5-100 feet.

Diablo SOL X – 2 Ply Window Tint

This double-sided film is thicker than ordinary car window tint. It features an incredibly strong, energy-absorbing anchoring adhesive and is made out of polyester film sheets with extraordinarily high tension and break strength and up to 50% maximum heat resistance. It is appropriate for use in an automobile, a home, or commercial building windows. It comes with a self-adhesive backing that is simple to apply. 

Moto Shield Pro Premium Ceramic

Moto shield Pro Tint Film is the best quality window film on the market and offers a variety of choices for customers wishing to update their windows for additional protection. This film is equivalent to 3M but costs up to 60% less. This fantastic ceramic tint prevents up to 99 percent UV, 99 percent IR, 70% TSER, and 95% glare. Furthermore, it is nano-tech oriented and only two mils thick, reducing the internal temperature by up to 25°F and being ecologically benign. 

Moto Shield Pro Professional Carbon

This incredible Carbon tint protects against UV radiation and interior fading. With its dark, matte surface, this hue reflects up to 40% of infrared light. They do not fade with time and assist in minimizing overall fuel usage by cooling your car sufficiently to lessen the amount of air conditioning you require. This tint is also incredibly simple to apply and inexpensive. 

Gila USS46® Heat Shield Plus 35%

Gila® Heat Shield Plus 35 percent VLT Automotive Window Tint offers all of the advantages of the Gila Heat Shield solutions while blocking up to 99 percent of UV radiation. Heat Shield Plus combines elegance, seclusion, and protection with a range of tint levels to select from. Heat rejection technology keeps interiors cool, which means this film may help you save gas and money on cooling your vehicle. 

FINAL THOUGHTS: 

A 35 percent film is a fantastic alternative for making driving more pleasant and extending the life of your car’s interior if your objective is privacy and reducing eye strain, glare, or UV radiation. 

The optimal percentage for your windows is determined by your reasons for tinting them in the first place.

Interested to learn more about other tint percentages?

Check out 20% Window Tint

Check out 25% Window Tint

Check out 15% Window Tint

Check out 5% (Limo Tint)

The Difference Between Ceramic Tint and Regular Tint

When it comes to car window tinting, there are two main types of window tint: ceramic tint and regular tint.

So which one is better? And what are the differences between them? Let’s explore the benefits of ceramic tint and compare it to regular tint.

We will also look at the difference in price, quality, and appearance. By the end of this article, you will be able to make an informed decision about which type of tint is best for your car.

Which tint is better (ceramic vs regular)

Ceramic tint is known for its superior quality and high performance. It offers excellent heat rejection, which can help keep your car cool during the summer months. It also has a higher resistance to fading and cracking than regular tint. This makes ceramic tint a good choice for drivers who want the best quality tint for their car windows.

However, regular tint is less expensive than ceramic tint and it also has a more subtle appearance. If you are looking for an affordable way to tint your windows and you don’t mind sacrificing some quality, regular tint may be a better choice for you.

Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on your personal needs, budget and preferences.

Difference in look

The difference in appearance between ceramic and regular tint is quite noticeable.

The Ceramic tint shade is a deep, dark color that can really make your car stand out from the crowd. Regular tint (also known as dyed film) is lighter and has a more translucent appearance.

Difference in price

The price difference between ceramic and regular tint is significant.

Ceramic tint is more expensive than regular tint, because it is a higher quality film. We generally see ceramic tint costing anywhere between 30% to 50% more than regular/dyed window film. If you are looking for the best possible protection for your car windows, then ceramic tint is definitely worth the extra money. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Difference in quality

The quality of ceramic vs regular tint is also quite different. Ceramic tint is known for its superior heat rejection, fading resistance, and cracking resistance. It is made of high-quality materials that are designed to last longer as metallic window film.

In conclusion, ceramic tint is the better option for drivers who want the highest quality and most protection for their car windows. It is more expensive than regular tint, but it is well worth the investment.

Benefits of Ceramic Tint

Ceramic window tint offers a number of benefits that regular tint does not. Some of the key benefits include:

1) UV-Blocking Protection

Ceramic tint blocks 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can help protect your car’s interior from fading and cracking. It filter out UVB and UVA rays, which can cause serious damage to your car’s upholstery, dashboard, and other materials.

By using ceramic dyed window film, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. Prolonged exposure to these rays can result in eye and skin issues. It provides the greatest level of protection against UV radiation.

2) Major Heat Reduction

Ceramic window tint can help keep your car cool during the summer months by rejecting the sun’s heat. This can help reduce the amount of heat that builds up inside the car, making it more comfortable to drive.

The ceramic tint film is also thicker than regular tint, which helps to insulate the car and keep the interior cool. In short, ceramic tint can help you stay safe, comfortable, and healthy behind the wheel.

3) Less Glare While Driving

Ceramic film can also help reduce glare while driving, making it easier to see the road ahead. It is perfect for drivers who are sensitive to glare or who live in areas with a lot of sun.

The ceramic tint film is also non-reflective, which means that it does not produce sun glare like regular tint can. This can be a major benefit for drivers who are used to driving during the day or in bright conditions.

4) Fading Resistance

Ceramic window tint is known for its superior fading resistance. It does not fade as quickly as regular tint, which can help keep your car looking new for longer.

The ceramic tint film also contains UV inhibitors, which help to prevent the color from fading over time. This makes ceramic tint a great choice for drivers who want to keep their car looking its best for as long as possible.

5) Crack Resistance

Ceramic tint is known for being more crack resistant than regular tint. If you live in an area with a lot of severe weather, ceramic tint is a good option to help keep your windows safe from damage.

Crack resistance is especially important for drivers who regularly drive in extreme weather conditions. By using ceramic tint, you can help protect your car windows from cracking and breaking.

6) No Signal Interference

Another benefit of ceramic tint is that it does not produce any signal interference. This means that you can use your car’s GPS, radio, and other electronic devices without any problems.

It help to keep your car’s electronics functioning properly while you are driving. This can be a major benefit for drivers who rely on their car’s electronics for navigation or entertainment.

7) Quality & Durability

Ceramic tint is known for its high quality and scratch-resistant coating. It is made of high-quality materials that are designed to last. Regular tint is not as durable and it does not offer the same level of protection as ceramic tint. It’s fair to say, the two are not created equal.

By tinting your car with ceramic tint, you can rest assured knowing that your tinted windows are protected from the sun’s harmful rays and other damaging elements. Ceramic tint is a wise investment and it will help keep your car looking its best for years to come.

Ceramic tint is not only a practical choice, but it also looks great. It can give your car a sleek, stylish appearance that is sure to turn heads. If you are looking for a way to update your car’s look, ceramic window films are a great option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regular tint vs Ceramic?

Yes, ceramic tint is better than regular tint because it offers superior protection against UV light, heat rejection, and fading. It is also crack resistant and does not produce any signal interference.

Is ceramic tint more visible?

The ceramic tint film is thicker than regular tint, which can make it slightly more visible and help block heat during the hot summer months. However, it is still much less visible than regular window tint.

Does ceramic tint scratch?

Ceramic tint does not scratch. It is made of high-quality materials that are designed to withstand everyday use. You can rest assured knowing that your ceramic window film

will stay looking great for years to come.

Is ceramic tint legal in all states?

Ceramic tint is legal in almost all states. However, it may not be legal to use ceramic tint in certain areas, so be sure to check with your local law enforcement agency before installing ceramic tint on your car.

Can ceramic tint be removed?

Yes, ceramic tint can be removed. However, it is a more difficult process than removing the regular tint. If you decide to remove ceramic tint from your car, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.

Conclusion: Ceramic Tint vs Regular Tint

When it comes to choosing between ceramic tint and regular tint, ceramic tint is the clear winner and comes with many more benefits than regular tint.

The main difference includes the best protection against UV radiation & infrared light, heat rejection, enhanced privacy, and fading.

Ceramic window tint is also crack resistant, has a shatter-proof feature, and does not produce any signal interference. One of the biggest benefits of ceramic tint is its long-lasting quality and durability.

By tinting your car with ceramic tint, you will be combining both style and function, which is something that regular window tints does not offer. Not only do you get the look you want, but you also get the most advanced window tinting technology available on the market.

Ceramic Vs Carbon Tint: Comparison and What the Differences are?

The difference between Carbon and Ceramic tint

Both carbon tint and ceramic tint are made of different materials. A carbon window tinting film is made of (you guessed it!) carbon, which gives a dark matte-black finish to the window film.

Ceramic window tint is made of non-metallic ceramic particles and is slightly lighter (in color) than a carbon window tint. Ceramic tint is also non-reflective, which means it won’t act as a mirror on those bright sunny days and is a major differentiator between the two tint types.

Carbon vs Ceramic: Which Is Better

In a straight-up comparison of features and quality, ceramic tint is the winner. However, there are some caveats…Although ceramic window tint is more durable and lasts longer, it also comes with a hefty price tag.

If you don’t mind the higher cost then the ceramic tint is the one to choose because of its maximum efficiency in deflecting 99% of UV light, non-glare, and shatterproof feature.

While carbon film is also durable and environmentally-friendly you’ll need to be OK with the haze and glare that the carbon tint ‘throws off’. If the glare is not something that would bother you, carbon could also be a good option.

WINNER: CERAMIC TINT

Video Comparison: Carbon vs Ceramic Tint

Which is More Expensive: Carbon vs Ceramic Tint

When comparing pricing, carbon tint is going to be the more affordable option.

In a recent study, Ceramic tint was found to be between 20-25% more expensive than carbon. So for example, if carbon tint cost $100, ceramic tint could cost up to $125 for the same amount of film.

Ceramic tint is relatively new to the tinting market but is quickly developing traction and popularity.

WINNER: CARBON TINT

Will They Fade: Carbon vs Ceramic Tint

No matter how dark the ceramic film is, carbon tint is darker than ceramic tint because of its dense chemical makeup and shade of color.

Neither carbon nor ceramic film will fade, at least not for a very long time. That’s one of the reasons why they are the two best options when selecting window tint films.

WINNER: TIE

Is Ceramic Tint Worth The Extra Money?

Ceramic window tinting film might cost more than a carbon film but it has a tremendous advantage over any other window tint film. It is non-reflective unlike carbon film, prevents 99% of UV rays from entering the car’s interior, and provides shatter-proof protection if the glass is ever broken.

Can You Put Ceramic or Carbon Tint Over Another Tint?

Both carbon and ceramic window film can be placed on top of the factory tint. This is because the factory tint is actually inside the glass.

But, neither film can be placed over an aftermarket tint (which is not inside the glass). If you want to put another tint over it then it is better to remove the old tint and install the carbon/ceramic window tint over it.

Is carbon tint better than other tints?

Carbon window tint film is a better choice when compared to dyed or metallic window tint films.

Carbon is more durable, doesn’t fade away, and won’t block cell phones or GPS signals (like a metallic film may do). Carbon also prevents 40% of UV rays which is more than dyed or metallic window film blocks.

The Breakdown: Carbon and Ceramic Tint (plus a few more)

There are mainly 4 types of window tinting films available on the market, varying in price, material composite, and quality. Ceramic, Carbon, Metalized, and Dyed.

Ceramic window tint film (Best)

Ceramic window film is the highest quality window tint available, but it is the most costly.

How does it work?

Ceramic tint is not made of metal, carbon, or dyed tint but it’s made of non-conductive ceramic particles. (Oh science!) The nano-ceramic technology blocks UV light and will keep your car interior cooler. While it prevents light from entering the interior of the car, the ceramic particles still allow visibility both day and night.

Pros:

• A ceramic car window tint blocks 99% of harmful UV rays which can cause skin cancer.
• It excels in anti-shattering properties and heat rejection when compared to other types of window tint.
• Ceramic tints do not fade.
• It does not block cell phone signals and other such device connections.

Cons:

• Higher price tag.

Carbon window tint film (Great)

Carbon window film is much more effective at blocking heat than a dyed film or metalized window tint.

How does it work?

The carbon particles embedded in the window film block 40% of infrared light. It will keep the car cooler so you won’t need to amp up air conditioning in the summers. In winters it will also save you on heating by keeping your car warm for longer.

How does it look?

It looks much darker than ceramic window films.

Pros:

• Carbon tint helps in blocking infrared light much more effectively than metallic or dyed films.
• Prevents solar heat gain.
• Carbon tinting prevents the interior of the car from fading.
• Doesn’t block transmission from GPS systems or cell phones.
• A carbon window does not fade with time.

Cons:

• The carbon particles are large which creates glare and haze when they reflect the light.
• Doesn’t have the heat rejection quality of the ceramic film.

Metalized window tint film (Good)

This tint comes with a shatterproof feature and uses metallic particles which are inserted in the film to prevent solar heat gain.

Pros:

• Unlike dyed film, it is more resistant to heat.
• The metallic particles make the windows highly shatterproof.
• Metalized window film is more resistant to scratches.

Cons:

• Blocks radio, cell phone signals, and GPS systems.
• Better than dyed window tint in blocking UV light but still not effective as its other counterparts. Carbon and ceramic window tints.

Dyed window tint film (Entry Level)

This is an economical window tint film that is light on the budget.

Pros:

• Economical.
• Provides privacy.
• Provides visibility from the inside.

Cons:

• Does not block infrared light rays much effectively.
• Dye fades with time.
• Does not effectively cool inside space.

20 Window Tint

“The tint percentage refers to the portion of visible light that passes through a tint treated window”.  This percentage is also known as visible light transmission (VLT). 

For example, if you have treated your window with a 20% window tint, it means that 20% of the light is allowed to enter your vehicle.

20 Window Tint Before and After (Picture)

Below is a before and after picture of a car that started with no window tint film and then added a 20% window tint so you can visualize the difference before and after the tint was added.

What Does 20% Tint Mean?

If you have applied 20% window tint, this means only 20% of the visible light is entering your car.  A car usually comes with a built-in factory tint ranging between 15-20%.

From this explanation, it can simply be understood that the higher the percentage of the tint, the lighter the color of the tint will be. So a 20 tint percent is darker than a 70 or 80 % tint. That’s why you may see that 20% is illegal in most states.

How Dark is 20% Tint?

20% tint is fairly dark as it allows just 20% of light to pass through the car window, blocking the remaining 80% of light. This means that the driver may have to compromise on visibility, though it is great for privacy purposes. 

The associated visibility risk becomes one of the prime reasons that most states do not allow dark tints for cars and declare them illegal for driver side and passenger windows. Although some states will allow this tint on rear windows & back windshield (back window).

Can you See Through 20% Tint at Night?

Yes. But it can be a little difficult and it depends on the circumstances outside. It also depends on how dark it is outside.

For example, in the early evening when it’s not too dark yet, you may not notice a problem driving, but when it gets darker, this window tint may become a problem.

You may also find it difficult to park your car, as parking requires looking through rear windows. You will probably have to roll down your windows at night with a 20% tint to drive safely, especially in tight corridors. 

But again,  you can’t just install any level tint darkness on your car windows, you will have to see if you are allowed to use a 20% tint film according to your state’s laws.

Is 20% Tint Dark Enough?

Yes. While this is subjective and more personal opinion, remember that the 20 tint film will block 80% of the light from passing through.

It’s dark enough and a great option that offers a high level of privacy, protection and prevents intruders from seeing inside the car.

With 20 percentage tinted windows, people outside the vehicle can see through windows when they are very close but, not very well from a distance

What is the difference between 20% and 35% Window Tint?

20% window has 20% visible light transmittance whereas a 35% window tint film has 35% VLT. This means 35 % window tint allows more light to come in and is lighter than a 20% window tint.

Although 35% car window tinting also gives a darker and more stylish look, it is comparatively easy to see through, particularly at night. 

How much Does 20% Tint Cost?

The cost of getting your vehicle tinted with 20% film or purchasing 20% tint film rolls depends on a variety of factors such as; 

• The brand you prefer as brands may determine quality and price. A quality film is certainly different than a cheap one. Some brands offer an installation tint kit alongside. If not, you may also have to purchase one.
• The material and technology you want to go for.
• The warranty
• The size of the film or the quantity of material you need to treat your windows.
• How many windows do you want to tint? That is only front side windows or the back windows too.
• Whether you are looking for professional services for a flawless installation or doing it as a DIY project. Again the details such as make, model, and year of cars matter when you want professional service.

20% Tint Film – Best Choice

20 tint percentage films are available online for purchase, here are some top options based on reviews, customer feedback, pricing, and brand

TRUE LINE Automotive 1Ply Car Window Tint 

True line automotive is declared to be one of the top 10 automotive tint brands in 2022. This specific non-metalized tint comes with a 1.1 Mil thickness (0.001 inches) along with a high quality 1 ply fil. The product also features the prevention of up to 99% of harmful sun rays.  It is an easy installation. 

MKBROTHER 20% VLT 20″ in x 25′ Ft

The best part about this non-metalized 20% window tint is that it is very much affordable. It comes with peel and sticks technology with a 1.5 Mil thickness 1PLY Film. Like most of the top-quality automotive tint brands, it can prevent 99% of UV rays and 50% of heat.  Amongst the various sizes of this tint, this particular size 20in x 25Ft costs around 27.72$.

Gila® Static Cling 20% VLT Automotive Window Tint

Gila Static Cling Plus 20% VLT Automotive Window Tint features Gila’s specialty of improving your car’s aesthetics with its upgraded styles.  With this scientifically made tint, you can expect durability, scratch resistance, and 99 % UV rays.  The tint has heat rejection features that help keep your car interior cooler and save on fuel.

 LEXEN 2Ply Premium Carbon 24

This new Lexen is a  24″ X 100FT Roll 2Ply window tin that comes in a variety of tint shades including the dark  20% VLT and 5 % VLT.  This tint features particle technology which is made up of carbon pigments thus offering an exceptional amount of heat rejection and color stability. With this 20% film, you can expect privacy, interior fading protection, and cool temperature. 

Gila NRS44 Basic Limo Black 20-Percent 

For dark tint enthusiasts, this particular 20% product from Gila may prove to be an excellent option. Just like other top-rated tints, this tint allows 36% of heat rejection, minimizes glare, eye strain and protects you from 99% of UV rays. The installation with Gila complete application kit becomes very easy and you can go for a DIY. As far as the film size is concerned, the film size which is 24 in. x 6.5 ft. is sufficient enough to cover two side windows.  

Greenfilm Static Cling Window Tint 20%

This is a 24″ x 120″static cling window tint film with the ability to blocks 77% of visible light.  Also, it blocks 55% of IR and 96% thus giving you a good amount of privacy and peace of mind. However, the package contains one roll of G-Cling 20 window film and you need to purchase the installation kit separately. 

20 Tint on Cars – Pictures (Examples)

Pictures of cars with 20 tint so you can get an idea of how dark the tint is and what it could look like on your vehicle.

20 Tint Car Window Tint

20% window tint is a darker tint and undoubtedly it has an amazing appearance for vehicles along with its feature to avoid harmful UV rays and eye strain. However, before you make a purchase, check out what the law says about window films in your state. 

Also, almost all the top window tints have 20% window tint and the cost may vary depending on a variety of factors mentioned above. 

Interested to learn more about other tint percentages?

Check out 35% Window Tint

Check out 25% Window Tint

Check out 15% Window Tint

Check out 5% (Limo Tint)

There are six common types of window tinting.

One of them is ceramic window tinting.

Let’s review the advantages of ceramic windows vs. other types of tinting.

What Is Ceramic Window Tint?

Ceramic Window Tint is the highest quality and most expensive film on the market. It provides the best possible levels of Heat Resistance, UV Protection, and Sun Glare Protection. Ceramic Film does not contain any dyes, metal, or carbon making it non-conductive and non-metallic for high visibility.

What are the benefits of Ceramic Window Tint?

Ceramic window tint film has many benefits including UV Protection, Heat Resistance, and Sun glare protection. It also comes in a wide range of charcoal shades allowing you to create the precise look you desire while still maintaining a very high level of visibility while driving.

The best ceramic window tint films come with a highly durable coating made to last for a very long time if installed and maintained properly.

This style of window tint film offers a high-level glare control which means you may longer need to wear sunglasses while driving. It also provides UV protection and scratch resistance so you can be sure that your film and also your interior will not be destroyed by the sun. Also, as an added bonus, it’s metal-free, which means there’s no interference with electronic device signals.

What are the Different Types of Window Tint Film?

Although Ceramic Window Film provides the best results for the money and is worth the extra price you will pay, there are 6 main types of Window tint films:

• Ceramic Window Tint
• Dyed Window Tint
• Metallized Window Tint
• Metal/Dyed Hybrid Window Tint
• Carbon Window Tint
• Crystalline Window Tint

What is Dyed Window Tint?

Dyed Window Tint Films represent the least expensive option on the market but also tends to have a lower functionality compared to other types. Although Dyed Window Film blocks UV rays and absorbs heat using a colored dye, the results are nowhere near the results that Ceramic Window Tint provides.

Dyed window films are most often used for cosmetic purposes and are usually the go-to option for “$99 tint jobs”. The reason this tint can be applied to most vehicles for so cheap is because the film doesn’t cost much money and the quality of the install is usually not that great. We recommend that you avoid the infamous “$99 tint jobs” unless you are simply applying window tint for cosmetic purposes and don’t mind the potential for a low-quality tint.

When viewing your car from the outside, this window film appears flat and opaque which can provide a high level of privacy. One downside of this type of film is that it often fades or turns purple over time. The level of heat-reduction provided by this type of film isn’t very high.

Ceramic vs dyed window tint

If you are deciding between Ceramic window tint and dyed window tint you need to understand that you will basically be getting what you paid for. The only time we would recommend getting dyed window tint installed on your car is if you simply can’t afford ceramic tint and are mainly installing the tint for cosmetic purposes. Ceramic film beats dyed film on all levels except for the price. Although you get FAR more VALUE in a ceramic tint job, it can easily cost 3-5x more than a dyed window tint job. If your heart is set on installing dyed window tint you can get it installed at just about every tint shop or you can try to do it yourself with a DIY window tint kit and
pre-cut window film for your specific car model.

What is Metallized/Metallic Window Tint?

Metalized/Metallic Window Tint film contains tiny metal particles, invisible to the eye, that are used to effectively reflect the sun’s UV rays while providing the least amount of visual restriction possible. This ensures a high level of safety and privacy while still allowing for a very thin film.

The advantage of using this type of film compared to most others is that it provides advanced safety and privacy without having limitations of visibility from the inside of the tinted windows. This film is very useful in vehicles in which being able to efficiently see through the windows is important to your safety.

Metalized/Metallic film contains tiny sheets of metal particles that are embedded in the film which can actually help to strengthen the window. This type of film gives a mirror-like look to the windows when you are viewing them from the outside.

The Heat resistance properties of this film are very high due to the high reflectivity of the metallic particles in the film. The mirror appearance provides one of the highest levels of privacy for those inside the vehicle without affecting your vision. This film is the same type of film that is used on 2-way glass that you will likely see used for security rooms which allows the individuals inside the room to see outside of the room while making it near impossible to see what’s inside the room from the outside.

Although there are many benefits to Metallic Window film, there’s also a downside. The metal in the film has the potential to interfere with cell phones, GPS, radio receptions, and other electronics. Although this may not be noticed by many people, it can cause issues for some

Ceramic vs Metallic Window Tint

If you are deciding between Ceramic window tint and Metallic window tint it will usually come down to 3 factors. How much can you spend, do you want a metallic look and feel to your tint when viewing from the outside, and do you have a problem with the potential interference to your mobile devices. Metallic window tint can be attractive from the outside and comes in many colors, whereas ceramic usually only comes in charcoal shades. Ceramic window tint can be more expensive than metallic window tint but has many more benefits. If price isn’t an issue we would highly recommend that you choose ceramic tint over metallic/metalized tint.

What is Hybrid Window Tint?

Metal/Dyed Hybrid window tint film combines dyed and metalized layers which provide excellent protection from UV rays, glare and help reduce the amount of heat that passes through the film. The dyed layer helps to decrease the mirror life effect that the metal layers of the film provide.

This style of window tint ultimately provides a high-performing film that is only really beaten by its ceramic counterpart.

Ceramic vs Hybrid Window Tint

If you are deciding between Ceramic window tint and Hybrid window tint it will usually come down to just 2 factors: price and quality. Although some Hybrid films come close to matching the quality of Ceramic films, they are still not as good as Ceramic. Because there is metal in the Hybrid film there is always the potential of mobile device interference but not as much as Metallic film. If you are deciding between Ceramic and Hybrid film we would always recommend that you go with Ceramic because it does provide better UVA/UVB protection, heat resistance and glare protection. Ceramic films will usually always provide a better quality than Hybrid films.

What is Carbon Window Tint?

Carbon tint film uses a patented nano-carbon technology to provide a true black appearance that is resistant to fading. It blocks 50%-70% of infrared heat so that your vehicle remains cooler and also prevents transmission of 99% of UV-A and UV-B rays to ensure you and your car are safe from the sun.

The patented nano-carbon technology creates hundreds of microscopic layers of polymer. This film doesn’t contain any metal. Thus, there is no worry about interference with electronics.

The black color comes from the carbon used in creating the film. This black film doesn’t have a mirror look, but still provides increased privacy. This tint is great for heat and glare reduction.

Ceramic vs Carbon Window Tint

If you are deciding between Ceramic window tint and Carbon window tint it will usually come down to just 2 factors: price and quality. Carbon films should be used when you are looking for that true “black-out” experience. If you are deciding between Ceramic and Carbon film we highly recommend that you go with Ceramic if you aren’t worried about cost and the “black-out” effect because Ceramic will perform far better all around and it provides better UVA/UVB protection, heat resistance, and glare protection than Carbon films.

What is Crystalline Window Tint?

Some individuals wish to tint their windows for the benefits other than making them dark. The manufacturing process of the crystalline window tint involves a proprietary method.

It uses a multilayer optical film nanotechnology. The construction involves combining more than 200 layers of an extremely thin film.

This film reflects more heat than many of the darker films. A light tint level offers up to 60% solar energy rejection and 97% protection from infrared rays. This helps keep the interior of your vehicle cooler.

Crystalline tint blocks up to 99% of UV light. It also offers a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 1000 for those inside the vehicle.

This increases your visibility and increases driving safety. Blocking UV light helps to protect the interior from sun damage.

It also allows visible light in while keeping the heat out. Since there is no metal in the film, you won’t have difficulty using electronic devices.

Why Is Ceramic Window Tint a Better Choice?

Ceramic window tint provides several advantages over other types of films. It has twice the heat absorption of dyed or hybrid films. The color remains stable over time and does not fade or turn purple.

Many consider this film the most technologically advanced. They base this on the fact that it provides both UV and Infra-Red reduction.

This prevents UV damage to your car’s interior and to your eyes. The infra-red reduction decreases the inside temperature of your car. It also increases the strength of the window and prevents shattering.

This type of tint is somewhat new to the market. Yet it’s already shown high performance and reliability.

It blocks up to 70% of solar heat and as much as 97% infrared heat. The ceramic film also provides better glare reduction and a high level of clarity. When considering all these benefits, ceramic window film offers a superior choice for window tinting.

Why Glare Is Detrimental

Glare can impact your vision and make driving more difficult. It causes discomfort and decreases your ability to see clearly.

Glare creates a poor distribution of light intensity. This causes extreme contrasts in space or time.

There are three main categories of glare. These include discomfort glare, disability glare, and blinding glare. All types of glare can increase eye strain, visual fatigue, and accident risk.

UV Ray Risk to Eyes

UV rays contain two types that impact humans. These include UV-A and UV-B. Continued exposure to these UV rays can result in eye damage.

UV-A impacts your central vision. Over time, you can develop damage to the macula. The macula lies in the back of your eye on the retina.

UV-B can damage the front of your eye. This part of the eye contains the cornea and lens. When they absorb UV-B rays, the eye can become more damaged than from exposure to UV-A rays.

Examples of eye damage resulting from UV ray exposure include:

Macular Degeneration which is a leading cause of decreased vision and blindness in older Americans

Cataracts develop from prolonged exposure to UV-B rays. This manifests as a clouding of the lens in the eye. This makes it difficult to focus light and impairs vision.

Pterygium is a growth on the eye caused by UV ray exposure. The growth starts on the white part of the eye and may spread to the cornea. Over time, this growth can block your vision.

Skin Cancer is a well-known risk of exposure to UV rays. This cancer can develop on the eyelids from looking into the sunlight.

Corneal Sunburn, also called photokeratitis, can occur after short-term, high-level exposure to UV-B rays. This often occurs following long hours at the beach or on the snow without proper eye protection.

Extensive driving without eye protection may also cause corneal damage. This condition is often very painful and can result in temporary vision loss.

Window Tinting’s Impact on Driver Safety

Vision impairment while driving can result in decreased driver safety. If you are struggling to see due to glare or “blinding” light, you risk of having an accident increases. Window tinting can decrease glare, improves your vision, and make you a safer driver.

Does Window Tint Help Reduce Heat?

Window tinting has proven very effective in decreasing inside temperatures. The window tint creates a barrier between the sun’s heat and the car interior.

The multiple layers in the window tint create a thermal blockade. At the same time, they allow the transmission of some light.

Window tint ratings describe their light transmittance. The terms used include:

• VLT% (visible light transmitted) describes the amount of visible light transmitted through the window tint
• VLA% (visible light absorbed) tells you the amount of light absorbed by the tint
• VLR% (visible light reflected) grades the amount of light reflected by the surface

In a car without any window tint, 90% of visible light is transmitted giving it a VLT% of 90. The VLA% is 5 because only 5% is of the light is absorbed. The VLR% will also be 5 because most of the light goes into the vehicle resulting in almost no cooling.

What You Should Know Window Tinting Laws

All 50 states have laws concerning the level of tint darkness and reflection. Violating these laws can result in fines. It’s important to know about your specific state law.

Most states allow up to a VLT % of 50% darkness. Window VLT%s less than 50% are still effective. Even a window tint of 90% to 80% can reduce glare and protect you from UV rays.

Here are the rules from the first and last states that enacted window tint laws.

Iowa was the first state to pass window tint laws. They require that the front windshield allows more than 70% light transmission. The front side windows can have up to 70% darkness.

You may choose any chosen tint level for all other vehicle windows.

Washington was the 50th state to pass window tinting laws. These laws vary for passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles.

Passenger cars may have a non-reflective tint on the upper 6 inches of the front windshield. The side and rear windows may have up to 24% tint darkness.

The Rationale for Window Tinting Laws

So, why do states need to enact window tinting laws? Window tinting helps to increase the driver’s vision and decreases heat and damage to the car’s interior. Yet, a very dark tint can create both a safety and security risk.

Some individuals wish to put a dark tint on their car to protect their privacy. Yet, this can pose a public safety risk. The driver’s view through the front window and in the rear-view mirror can be decreased with darker tinted windows.

Heavy window tint decrease the police officers’ and emergency workers’ view inside the car. Police officers can’t assess the activity of suspects in the vehicle. This can increase their personal safety risk.

Emergency workers have trouble locating any injured people inside the car. If there’s significant damaged, it’s important to know where victims are before extrication procedures begin. Totally blacked-out windows may also cause other drivers to feel intimidated.

The United States has a high rate of road deaths every year. Eliminating illegal levels of tinting is a priority. Legal tint levels help decrease interference with the driver’s vision.

Advocates of the window tinting law encourage the enforcement of fines and vehicle confiscation without fear or favor. They also call for businesses that illegally tint windows to receive penalties as well. They state that it isn’t enough to warn the customer that the tint exceeds the law and then apply it anyway.

Are You Considering Tinting Your Windows?

Would you like to have your vehicle’s windows tinted? There are several factors to consider. Is your goal to have dark, mirror-looking windows that provide privacy inside the car?

Are you mainly interested in eye protection and increased driving safety? Do you want to protect the interior of your vehicle from sun damage? Is decreasing the heat inside your vehicle a priority?

This article has discussed six different types of window tint films and their advantages and disadvantages. One of the newest types, ceramic window tinting, has received high ratings on all beneficial features.

As you consider these questions, you must learn about your state’s window tint laws. Failure to follow these instructions can lead to fines.

To find accurate and current information about U.S. car window tinting laws, visit Windowtintlaws.us. All 50 states have now passed window tinting laws, but they are all unique. It important that you understand your state’s laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines.

When viewing our site, remember that specific districts, counties, and cities may have further restrictions, exemptions, and regulations. To ensure compliance, check your local Department of Motor Vehicle website. You do not want to pay for window tinting only to find out that it is illegal and have to remove it.

Check out our site today to learn about your state’s tint laws.