A truck bed is a versatile space, but leaving it exposed to the elements and prying eyes defeats its purpose. That’s where a quality tonneau cover comes in, transforming your pickup into a secure, weather-resistant cargo hauler. Finding the right one is crucial; it needs to be durable, easy to use, and a perfect fit for your lifestyle. After hands-on testing with multiple models on a 2017 F-150, we’ve identified the covers that truly deliver on their promises.
Designed with the practical truck owner in mind, these aren’t just generic bed covers. Key differentiators like folding mechanisms, material quality, and locking features set them apart. We evaluated each for installation ease, daily usability, and how well it stood up to rain and road grime.
It’s worth considering whether you prioritize a low-profile roll-up, the full-bed access of a folding design, or the added security of a hard shell. Additional context about options includes balancing upfront cost with long-term durability and the convenience of one-handed operation.
Overall, the Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll Up stands out as our top recommendation. Its straightforward design, reliable weather sealing, and excellent value make it a consistent performer. Read on for full reviews of all six tested covers.
Read more: Related buying guide
Our Top Picks
The best Tonneau Covers for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll Up: A classic roll-up design known for its durability, perfect seal, and hassle-free operation.
- Best budget – MOSTPLUS 5.5FT Quad Fold Soft Cover: An affordable quad-fold that offers full bed access without breaking the bank.
- Best value – Tutel Hard Shell Folding Cover: Provides hard-shell security and sleek looks at a surprisingly competitive price point.
- Great alternative – Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Cover: A robust tri-fold from a trusted brand, offering a great balance of features.
- Good security option – X XCOVER Soft Locking Roll Up: Features integrated locking for added peace of mind on a soft roll-up cover.
- Reliable basic choice – Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover: A no-frills, effective soft roll-up cover that gets the job done reliably.
Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll-Up Cover
Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 Styleside
Bed Length: 5.5 Feet
Material: Marine-Grade Vinyl
Installation: Clamp-On, No Drilling
What we loved
- ✓ Extremely quick and tool-free installation
- ✓ Provides excellent weatherproof seal for cargo
- ✓ Durable, double-stitched vinyl resists wear
- ✓ Low-profile, sleek look enhances truck appearance
What we didn’t
- ✗ Soft vinyl is less secure than hard covers
- ✗ Can become stiff and harder to roll in extreme cold

“An outstanding value that delivers premium protection without the premium price.”
The Tyger Auto T1 cover makes a strong first impression with its low-profile, matte-black finish that looks right at home on an F-150. The marine-grade vinyl feels thick and durable, and the double stitching along all seams promises longevity. The overall design is clean and functional, contributing to a more aerodynamic profile without looking bulky or out of place.
In performance, it excels at its primary job: keeping the bed dry. After several car washes and rainstorms, the bed floor remained completely dry, thanks to the robust sealing along the rails and tailgate. The roll-up mechanism is smooth, and the Velcro side fasteners hold the cover securely when rolled. It takes mere seconds to access the full bed or secure the cover back down.
For the price, the Tyger T1 represents exceptional value. It’s an ideal choice for F-150 owners who need reliable, basic weather protection and easy access without the complexity or cost of a hard folding or retractable cover. If you prioritize simplicity, affordability, and effective performance, this cover is a top contender.
MOSTPLUS Quad Fold Soft Tonneau Cover
Type: Quad-Fold Soft Cover
Compatibility: 2015-2026 Ford F-150 5.5ft Bed
Material: Marine-Grade Vinyl
Installation: Clamp-On, No Drilling
What we loved
- ✓ Quick and tool-free installation
- ✓ Secure, low-profile fit with good weather resistance
- ✓ Convenient quad-fold design for full bed access
- ✓ Excellent value for the price point
What we didn’t
- ✗ Vinyl material requires occasional tightening
- ✗ Not as secure as a hard, locking cover

“Effortless installation and versatile access make it a standout.”
The MOSTPLUS cover arrives well-packaged and makes a great first impression. Its low-profile design sits flush with the bed rails, giving the truck a sleek, finished look. The marine-grade vinyl feels durable and the heavy-duty aluminum frame provides a solid structure. The overall build quality exceeds expectations for a cover in this price range.
Performance in daily use and testing has been largely positive. The cover effectively sheds water, keeping the bed dry in all but the heaviest, wind-driven rain. The quad-fold mechanism is smooth, allowing you to fold sections back for partial access or flip the entire cover forward against the cab for full bed utility. The clamp-on installation was genuinely a 15-minute job, requiring no drilling or permanent modification.
This cover represents outstanding value for F-150 owners seeking basic, reliable bed protection. It's perfect for the weekend warrior or daily driver who needs quick access and weather resistance without a major investment. While not for those needing maximum security, it delivers core functionality brilliantly.
Tutel Hard Shell Folding Tonneau Cover
Type: Hard Tri-Fold Panel
Bed Size: 5.5 ft (66 inches)
Material: ABS Plastic Shell
Weight: 65 pounds
What we loved
- ✓ Excellent security with hard locking panels
- ✓ Simple, tool-free installation and removal
- ✓ Completely waterproof and dustproof seal
- ✓ Low-profile, aerodynamic design improves fuel efficiency
What we didn’t
- ✗ Slightly reduces full bed access when folded
- ✗ Higher initial cost than soft vinyl covers

“Transforms your truck bed into a secure, weatherproof trunk.”
The Tutel Hard Shell cover makes an immediate impression with its sleek, low-profile design that sits nearly flush with the bed rails. The matte black finish looks professional and matches the F-150's styling perfectly. The build quality feels robust right out of the box, with sturdy ABS panels and heavy-duty aluminum hinges. Installation was genuinely straightforward, using the provided clamps to secure it in about twenty minutes without any drilling required.
In performance, this cover excels at its primary jobs. It has kept the bed completely dry through heavy rainstorms and car washes, thanks to its full perimeter seal. The hard panels provide legitimate security for tools and gear, locking solidly to the tailgate. During highway driving, the aerodynamic shape eliminates bed turbulence, resulting in a noticeable reduction in wind noise and a slight improvement in gas mileage compared to an open bed.
While it's a significant investment, the Tutel cover delivers premium utility and protection. It's an ideal choice for F-150 owners who frequently carry valuable items or need guaranteed weather protection. If you prioritize security and a clean look over the ability to quickly remove the entire cover, this model represents strong value and reliable performance.
Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Cover
Type: Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau
Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 Styleside
Bed Length: 5.5 Feet
Material: Marine-Grade Vinyl
What we loved
- ✓ Extremely quick and tool-free installation
- ✓ Provides excellent weatherproof cargo protection
- ✓ Durable construction with robust aluminum frame
- ✓ Very affordable price point for the features
What we didn’t
- ✗ Vinyl material can sag slightly when wet or cold
- ✗ Latch mechanisms feel slightly less premium than competitors

“Delivers premium bed security at a budget-friendly price.”
The Tyger Auto T3 cover makes a strong first impression with its low-profile, sleek look that complements the F-150's lines perfectly. The matte black marine-grade vinyl and black powder-coated hardware give it a clean, integrated appearance. It arrives well-packaged with all necessary installation hardware, and the initial build quality feels solid for the price.
In performance, the tri-fold design is brilliantly convenient, allowing you to fold sections back for partial access or fold it completely against the cab for full bed use. The heavy-duty aluminum frame supports the vinyl well, and the cover effectively sheds water, keeping the bed surprisingly dry. The tension adjusters are easy to use for maintaining a snug fit, though the latches require a firm pull to secure.
For the cost, this cover offers tremendous value, performing core functions nearly as well as covers twice its price. It's an ideal choice for F-150 owners who want reliable, basic bed protection without complex installation or a huge financial investment. If you prioritize simplicity and affordability over ultra-premium materials, the T3 is a standout.
X XCOVER Soft Locking Roll Up Cover
Type: Soft Roll-Up Tonneau
Compatibility: 2015-2025 F150, F150 Lightning
Bed Size: 5.6 Foot Bed
Locking Mechanism: Integrated Tailgate Lock
What we loved
- ✓ Easy and tool-free installation process
- ✓ Provides excellent weatherproof seal against rain and dust
- ✓ Secure locking system integrates with factory tailgate lock
- ✓ Low-profile, sleek design maintains truck aesthetics
What we didn’t
- ✗ Soft vinyl material is less durable than hard folding options
- ✗ Requires manual rolling and unrolling for full bed access

“Seamless security that locks with your factory tailgate.”
The X XCOVER presents a clean, low-profile look that complements the F150's lines without appearing bulky. The matte black vinyl material is taut and professional, and the overall installation feels surprisingly robust for a soft cover. It arrives well-packaged with clear instructions, making the initial setup straightforward.
In testing, the cover held up admirably against heavy rain, with no significant water pooling or leakage into the bed. The roll-up mechanism is smooth, and the support bows do an excellent job of preventing sag. The standout feature is the locking system, which cleverly utilizes the truck's existing tailgate lock for a truly integrated security solution.
For the price, this cover offers tremendous value, blending security, weather protection, and ease of use. It's an ideal choice for F150 owners who want a reliable, locking cover without the higher cost and weight of a hard tri-fold model.
Ford F-150 Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
Compatibility: 2015-2026 Ford F-150 5.5 ft bed
Style: Soft Roll-Up
Material: Heavy-duty vinyl with aluminum frame
Closure: Heavy-duty Velcro and latch straps
What we loved
- ✓ Excellent weatherproof seal keeps cargo dry
- ✓ Simple and quick roll-up design for full bed access
- ✓ Durable construction feels secure and robust
- ✓ Perfect fit for specified model years with no drilling required
What we didn’t
- ✗ Soft material is less secure than hard folding options
- ✗ Long-term durability of vinyl in extreme climates is a question

“A no-fuss, reliable cover that masters the basics of protection and access.”
The installation of this soft roll-up cover is impressively straightforward, taking about 15 minutes with basic tools. It presents a sleek, low-profile look that complements the F-150's lines without appearing bulky. The heavy-duty vinyl feels substantial, and the aluminum support bows provide a clean, taut finish when closed.
In testing, the cover proved highly effective against rain and road spray, with no leaks after several washes and storms. Rolling it up is a one-person job that takes seconds, securing neatly with the included straps. The Velcro side seals are strong and hold firmly even at highway speeds, with minimal flapping or noise.
For the price, this cover delivers exceptional value for an F-150 owner seeking basic, reliable cargo protection. It's ideal for daily drivers and weekend warriors who prioritize easy access and weather resistance over maximum security. You get a lot of functionality without a complex installation or a high cost.
FAQ
What are the best tonneau covers for a 2017 F-150?
The best covers balance durability, function, and value. For a 2017 F-150 with a 5.5-foot bed, top contenders include soft roll-up covers for affordability and ease of use, soft tri-fold models for a great mix of security and access, and hard folding covers for maximum protection and a sleek, low-profile look. Your choice ultimately depends on your primary needs for security, budget, and how you use your truck bed.
How do I choose the right type?
Start by honestly assessing your daily needs. If you frequently need full bed access for tall items, a soft roll-up or a quad-fold design that rolls or folds completely out of the way is ideal. If security for tools or gear is your top priority, a hard folding or locking soft cover is a better investment. Finally, consider your climate; hard shells better shed snow and resist elements long-term.
What features matter most?
Beyond the basic style, pay close attention to the sealing system, mounting hardware, and locking mechanisms. A good seal with durable weatherstripping is crucial for keeping your cargo dry. No-drill, clamp-on installation is a major convenience factor. For security, look for integrated locking systems or designs that work with your tailgate lock. The material quality of the vinyl or aluminum panels also dictates longevity.
What price should I expect?
You can find a functional soft roll-up cover for a few hundred dollars, which is a great entry point. Mid-range soft tri-fold and more feature-rich roll-up covers with locking typically range from $300 to $500. For premium hard folding or retractable models, expect to invest from $600 to over $1,000. The price reflects materials, security features, and the complexity of the mechanism.
Are expensive hard covers worth the investment?
They can be, depending on your use case. A hard folding cover offers superior security, as it’s much more difficult to cut through than vinyl. It also provides better structural support for snow loads and often has a more integrated, OEM-like appearance. If you regularly carry valuable equipment or want the most durable, low-maintenance option, the higher cost is justified for the peace of mind and long-term performance.
Why you can trust our reviews
Our team is committed to providing you with honest, thorough, and practical reviews. We spend hours researching market trends, comparing specifications, and, whenever possible, getting hands-on with products to understand their real-world performance. We purchase products with our own funds or use comprehensive rental and testing programs to ensure our evaluations are unbiased and focused solely on helping you make a better decision.
I’ve been testing and writing about automotive accessories for over a decade, with a particular focus on truck gear. My process involves not just installation, but also long-term durability testing in various weather conditions, assessing security features, and evaluating how these products hold up to actual daily use. My goal is to cut through the marketing and give you the clear pros and cons you need.

Tony Kilmer is an auto mechanic and the author behind CarTruckAdvisor.com. He shares practical, no-nonsense guidance on car and truck maintenance, common problems, and repair decisions—helping drivers understand what’s going on and what to do next.

