Car window tint has come a long way in the last few decades. While there are almost limitless options for style, performance, and pricepoint, innovations have led to the emergence of two superior products: carbon and ceramic window tint.

Both are great films, with benefits that far outweigh the drawbacks. But this can make it difficult to know which is best. It is why the carbon vs ceramic tint rages on.

The information below lays out the benefits of window tint in general. It also explains the advantages carbon and ceramic films afford. It will help you determine which product is the right one for you.

Benefits of Car Window Tinting

One of the biggest benefits of window film is protection against UV rays. The American Skin Cancer Foundation recommends window film as a preventative measure against cancer. It also can safeguard your upholstery and items inside your car from the harmful effects of the sun.

Window film adds style to your car and offers privacy. It also reduces glare, which can make driving safer. Film makes your windows stronger, which can be an asset against break-ins or flying debris during storms.

Window Tint Types

There are many different types of window tints for cars. Some of the most affordable and prevalent ones are dyed or metallic film. While they may save you a few bucks, that is where the benefits end.

Dyed film looks cheap and fades over time. It also does not provide the same level of protection from the sun as carbon or ceramic window tint.

Metallic film is notorious for interrupting radio, GPS, and cellular signals. And both dyed and metallic film have few options for customization. These deficits are in part why ceramic and carbon window tint have emerged as superior film products.

Carbon vs Ceramic Tint

Carbon fiber particles make up carbon window tint. They will not fade over time and are effective at blocking UV rays. While there is some opportunity for customization, carbon film usually has a matte finish, which a lot of people prefer anyway.

Ceramic tint can block 99 percent of UV rays. It is the most durable car film. Ceramic tint also is a great option if you want to reduce glare without having a very dark tint.

Although they are more expensive than other types of film, carbon and ceramic tint are durable and will look great for a long time. Also, they both have a very high insulating ability. This means that, besides keeping sun rays out, they can keep cool air from escaping during the summer and warm air in during the winter.

When considering carbon vs ceramic tint, you also should think about the few minor drawbacks. With carbon tint, the particles are so large that light can bounce around inside the film. This can create a mild haze and glare in certain conditions.

Ceramic particles are small enough to prevent haze and glare, but the material can oxidize faster than carbon. While it will last and perform much longer than dyed film, this could cause it to fade over time.

Note that there also are products that combine both carbon and ceramic tint, to minimize the drawbacks of each. Reputable car window tinting services can further explain how these products work and the advantages they offer.

Find Car Window Tint Near Me

Now that you understand the differences in carbon vs ceramic tint, you can decide which one is right for your vehicle. It can protect your skin and your car’s interior from the sun, as well as make driving more comfortable and safer. 

We hope you found this information on window tinting useful. If so, be sure to check out some of our other posts on all-things-automotive. We cover everything from buying and selling cars to vehicle repair and technology.