Comparison between 35% vs 20% Window Tint: Which one is better?

When considering whether to tint car windows, owners often find themselves at a crossroads. Window tinting is a common enhancement for vehicles today, and this layer is a special polyester material that elevates your car’s appearance. Yet, window tint isn’t solely about aesthetics and style. It provides several potent protective benefits – acting as a barrier against UV and IR radiation, lessening heat inside the vehicle, and increasing privacy.

The market offers a plethora of window tint options, with the primary distinction being the VLT – Visible Light Transmission. This percentage-based metric indicates the amount of visible light permitted into the car. A higher VLT means a lighter tint, with 35% and 20% being among the most popular choices. Let’s delve into the perks of window tinting for your vehicle and determine which tint percentage could be your optimal choice.

The Advantages of Tinting Your Car Windows

A significant number of car owners are unaware of the full spectrum of benefits that window tinting provides. A top-tier window tint is a strategic way to protect your automotive investment.

Reducing Glare

The battle against blinding sunlight while driving is universal. It’s not just a nuisance but a safety risk, as it impairs vision. Tinted windows offer a solution by diminishing the intensity of incoming light, ensuring a safer drive. They also protect your eyes from the harsh glare of bright LED headlights in your mirrors.

Protection from UV Rays

Tinted windows can block as much as 99% of damaging UV rays. This dual-action protection serves as a barrier for you inside the car, improving comfort, and also shields the interior of your vehicle. Constant UV exposure can degrade your car’s upholstery and finishes. Window tinting maintains the integrity of your vehicle’s interior, thus preserving its value.

Maintaining Cooler

Car Interiors Tints do more than block UV light; they also repel infrared radiation, which means they keep heat at bay. This keeps the car’s interior cooler and reduces the need for constant air conditioning, making your drive more pleasant and efficient.

Increased Privacy

Privacy is important, even when it comes to your car. Window tinting provides a level of seclusion, preventing prying eyes from seeing inside. Beyond comfort, this privacy also adds a layer of security. Car break-ins often happen when valuables are visible. Tinted windows obscure the interior view, thereby deterring potential thefts and contributing to your peace of mind.

If you want to read more about this topic we would recommend the following blog post:

• The Benefits of Window Tinting for Chicago Drivers 
• How Window Tinting Keeps Your Car Comfortably Cool

Comparing 35% Window Tint vs. 20% Window Tint:

When you’ve decided to apply a tint to your car windows, the question often arises: is a 35% or 20% tint better? Let’s examine these two options and consider what factors should guide your choice.

Controlling Heat and Glare

How well the tint controls heat and glare is a significant factor.

• 35% window tint: Offers some reduction in heat and glare, but may not perform as well under intense summer conditions as its darker counterpart. It’s suitable if you’re in a region with moderate sunlight or if visibility is a priority for you overheat control.
• 20% window tint: In very sunny or hot areas, a 20% tint can substantially cut down on the heat entering your car and more effectively reduce glare. However, keep in mind that in some places, very dark tints may draw attention from law enforcement.

Privacy and Aesthetics

The level of privacy increases with the darkness of the tint.

• 35% window tint: Provides moderate privacy, slightly darkening the windows but maintaining visibility from both inside and outside. It’s a good middle ground if you want some privacy without sacrificing transparency and is often within legal limits.
• 20% window tint: Offers enhanced privacy, greatly limiting visibility from the outside while keeping inside visibility reasonably clear. It’s vital to check the legality of this tint level in your locale.

Legal Considerations Adhering to local window tinting laws is important when choosing your tint level.

• 35% window tint: Often falls within the legally acceptable range, offering a balance between privacy and adherence to the law.
• 20% window tint: Can be illegal in certain areas, potentially leading to fines. Always confirm that it meets local legal standards before choosing this level.

If you are located in Illinois we would recommend reading our blog post: Illinois Window Tint Law: Essential Guide for Drivers

Should I Choose 35% or 20% Tint?

For a safer option, a 35% tint may be preferable due to its greater light allowance and better visibility. Keep in mind that a 20% tint film might not be permitted in many states.

Is 35% Darker than 20%?

No. Contrary to what some might think, a lower VLT percentage means a darker tint. Therefore, a 20% tint is darker as it allows only 20% of light through, compared to 35% for the lighter tint.

How Durable is Window Tint?

Quality tint materials typically have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years, though this can vary based on the film quality, installation expertise, and environmental factors. Unlimited Auto Style uses XPEL films and provides a 10-year warranty.

How Should I Clean Tinted Car Windows?

Wait until the tint has fully cured, which can take a few days, before cleaning. Then, use a mild soapy solution and a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners and tools.