20% vs 35% Window Tint: What’s the Difference?

If you’re comparing 20% vs 35% window tint, the biggest difference is  the darkness. A 20% tint is darker and provides more privacy, while a 35% tint allows more light through and generally provides better visibility, especially when it is dark.

Window tint percentages refer to Visible Light Transmission (VLT), or how much visible light passes through the film and the glass. A 35% tint allows about 35% of visible light through, while a 20% tint allows about 20%. That means the lower the percentage, the darker the tint.

We’ve installed both 20% and 35% window tint on vehicles at our Highland Park shop. Neither is automatically better. Your choice should depend on the look you want, how much privacy you need, nighttime visibility, and the window tint laws in Illinois.

The Advantages of Tinting Your Car Windows

High-quality window tint can improve driving comfort, reduce glare, block UV rays, add privacy, and help protect your car’s interior. The exact performance depends on the type of film you choose, not simply how dark it is.

That last sentence is most important for the 20% vs 35% comparison.

Reducing Glare

Window tint reduces the amount of visible light entering through the glass, which can help reduce glare from the bright sun. A darker 20% tint reduces more visible light than a 35% tint, but the trade-off is reduced visibility in low-light conditions.

Protection from UV Rays

Premium window films can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays. This helps reduce UV exposure for passengers and protects seats, dashboards, trim, and other interior materials from fading and sun damage over time.

UV protection isn’t determined by how dark the tint looks. A high-quality 35% ceramic tint can still provide great UV protection.

Maintaining Cooler Car Interiors

The tint can reduce solar heat entering your car, but darker doesn’t always mean better heat rejection. Film technology matters the moest. A premium ceramic film can provide strong heat rejection without requiring an extremely dark tint.

This is an important expertise signal because a lot of tint content incorrectly equates darkness with heat rejection.

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

35% vs 20% window tint: key differences

The choice between 35% vs 20% window tint comes down mainly to darkness, privacy, visibility, appearance, and local tint laws. Here’s what we’ve found customers notice most when comparing the two types:

20% window tint:

• Darker appearance
• More privacy
• Allows approximately 20% of visible light through
• Lower visibility in dark conditions
• Good choice for drivers who prefer a dark look

35% window tint:

• Lighter appearance
• Moderate privacy
• Allows approximately 35% of visible light through
• Better nighttime visibility than 20%
• Good balance between  privacy, appearance and, visibility

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 over heat 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 20% or 35% Window Tint?

Choose 35% tint if you want a balanced look with moderate privacy and better nighttime visibility. For many daily drivers, 35% is a comfortable middle ground between clear glass and a very dark tint.

Choose 20% tint if you prefer a noticeably darker appearance and more privacy and you are comfortable with less visibility in low-light conditions.

From our experience at Unlimited Autostyle installing window tint, the best way to decide is to see the shades in person. Lighting, your vehicle’s interior color, and existing factory glass can all change how dark 20% or 35% tint looks once installed.

Is 20% Tint Darker Than 35%?

Yes. 20% window tint is darker than 35% window tint. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint.

The percentage represents Visible Light Transmission (VLT). A 20% tint allows approximately 20% of visible light through, while a 35% tint allows approximately 35%.

How Long Does Window Tint Last?

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 your newly installed window tint has had time to cure before cleaning the inside of the windows. After that, use a soft microfiber cloth and a window cleaner that is safe for tinted film. Avoid abrasive pads, sharp tools, and harsh cleaners that could damage it.