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Tonneau Cover Vs. Camper Shell: Which One Is Best for Your Truck

Updated on May 6, 2025

Comparison of GMC Sierra tonneau covers and Toyota Tundra camper shells.

You’re standing in your driveway, eyeing the open bed of your new, to you, truck. It is empty as a blank slate now, but you are already picturing the endless ways you will use this new steed. So much room for activities and equipment like tools loaded up for work, hauling home improvement supplies, packing it with camping gear for weekend adventures, and keeping your groceries dry on rainy days. The only question is: what is the best way to cover and protect it all?

Do you go with a camper shell, expanding your bed into a weatherproof cargo hold with added height and security? Or do you opt for a tonneau cover, keeping things sleek, low-profile, and easy to access? Both have their perks, but which one suits your lifestyle best?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of camper shell vs tonneau cover covering durability, security, weight, and versatility to help you decide. No matter if your pickup is a full-size or mid-size, new or old, long bed or short bed, these upgrades are an ideal modification for most truck owners. Whether you’re commuting to work, tackling weekend chores, or hitting the trail for a bit of off-road fun, we’ll help you figure out which setup is right for you.

Table of Contents:

What is a Camper Shell

What is a Tonneau Cover

Camper Shell Vs. Tonneau: Key Comparisons

Which one Should you Choose?

What Is a Camper Shell?

Blue pickup truck with a gray soft top and "TRD 4X4 SPORT" decal on the side.

Back in the day, camper shells earned their name because they made truck camping easier and more comfortable. Today, common industry terms for a camper shell also include truck topper, canopy, or cap since they can be used for a multitude of missions outside of camping.

The main difference between camper shell vs tonneau cover is that the camper shell is a large, hard cover that fully encloses the truck bed. Made from fiberglass, aluminum, or composite materials, it creates a lockable, weatherproof space that adds extra height for more storage. You can keep it basic or go all out with deluxe features like side access panels, windows, interior lighting, electronic locks, and custom paint-matched finishes like A.R.E. is known for. Some even handle bulky cargo, like the Black River Matrix XL Truck Topper, which can fit full-size motorcycles.

If you prefer something lightweight and portable, there are innovative options like FLATED’s inflatable truck topper. It sounds gimmicky, but it’s surprisingly rugged and practical. Made from heavy-duty materials, it is affordable, lightweight, and offers the convenience of easy installation and compact storage when not in use.

Interior view of a modern RV with a dining area and seating, outdoor foldable steps.

Camper Shell Key Benefits:

Weather Protection: Seals the entire bed, shielding cargo from rain, snow, and UV rays.
Security: Lockable windows and rear doors deter theft.
Extra Storage: More vertical space lets you haul larger items or stack cargo higher.
Customization: Many caps offer optional racks, windows, or ventilation.

Camper Shell Common Drawbacks:

Reduced Versatility: Fixed structure limits the ability to transport tall or oversized items.
Added Weight: Fiberglass caps can weigh 200-600 pounds, impacting fuel efficiency.
Higher Cost: Truck caps can range from cheap $1,200 to $5,000 high-quality beauties.
Installation: On higher-end units, it is recommended for professional installation.

Camper shells found on RealTruck include brands like A.R.E., Flated, and Black River.

What Is a Tonneau Cover?

Man in a gray knit hat and brown jacket opening a black toolbox outdoors.

The main difference between tonneau cover vs camper shell is that a tonneau cover is a flat, protective cover that sits flush with the top of the truck bed line. Like the camper shell, the tonneau cover name dates back a few years, over 100, to the early 1900s touring automobiles.

Tonneau covers are also called truck bed covers and come in a variety of configurations. Available in soft or hard materials, tonneau covers shield cargo from the elements while maintaining a sleek, low-profile look. They come in various styles, including hard folding, hard roll-up, soft folding, soft roll-up, one-piece, and retractable designs. Some are super basic, others can hold up better to the weather, some work with bed racks, and some covers are smartphone-compatible.

With all of that in mind choosing the right one for your needs should be a carefully considered process.

Gray GMC pickup truck with a covered truck bed.

Tonneau Cover Key Benefits:

Low Profile: Maintains the truck’s original silhouette and improves aerodynamics.
Easy Access: Flip, roll, or slide open quickly for fast cargo access.
Configurable: Some units allow for partial coverage configurations.
Lighter Weight: Weigh significantly less than a truck cap, minimizing the impact on fuel efficiency.
More Affordable: Ranges from $500 to $2,500 depending on material and style.

Tonneau Cover Common Drawbacks:

Less Secure: Softer covers can be cut or removed easily.
Limited Cargo Space: Does not allow for taller cargo storage when full cover is deployed.
Less Weather Protection: Some covers may allow water or dust to seep in.

There is no better place to shop for a tonneau cover than at RealTruck. It is pretty much a special area of expertise and the selection process is dialed down with helpful filters. All the top brands from Access, A.R.E., BAK, Dee Zee, Extang, Gator, Lund, Pace Edwards, Patriot, Truck Covers USA, TonnoPro, TruXedo, Stowe Cargo Systems, Ranch, Retrax, Roll-N-Lock, Rugged Ridge, and UnderCover are listed so finding your preferred setup is made easy.

Camper Shell Vs. Tonneau Cover: Key Comparison Factors

Two people loading coolers into vehicle trunks outdoors.

When choosing between a camper shell vs tonneau cover, durability, and protection are major considerations. Truck canopies, constructed from fiberglass or aluminum, offer superior resistance against harsh weather and road debris. Their enclosed design keeps cargo safe and dry, making them ideal for work trucks, overlanding rigs, or anyone needing secure, weatherproof storage. Tonneau covers, while providing some protection, are generally less robust. Soft covers can be prone to tearing or punctures, whereas hard covers offer better durability but still lack the full enclosure and security of a cap. When it comes to fuel efficiency, however, tonneau covers have the upper hand. Their low-profile, aerodynamic design reduces drag, potentially improving gas mileage, while camper shells add weight and wind resistance, which can slightly reduce fuel economy.

In terms of versatility and value, tonneau covers offer more flexibility for hauling oversized or irregularly shaped items, as they can be easily retracted, rolled, or folded out of the way. Truck caps, on the other hand, create a fixed, enclosed space that limits cargo height but provides superior organization and security. For those seeking budget-friendly options, soft tonneau covers are the most affordable, with hard covers costing more but still less than most toppers. Although truck canopies require a larger initial investment, they deliver greater long-term value by offering enhanced protection and security, making them a smart choice for those who frequently transport valuable gear.

Key Comparison Factors:

Durability: Truck caps offer better weather protection and resistance to debris.
Security: Caps provide superior cargo security with lockable windows and doors.
Fuel Efficiency: Tonneau covers reduce drag, potentially improving gas mileage.
Versatility: Tonneau covers allow for easier transport of tall or bulky items.
Cost: Tonneau covers are more affordable upfront, while truck caps offer better long-term value.

Which One Should You Choose?

Compare two pickup trucks with camping gear and a woman sitting in the open tailgate.

Deciding between a truck cap and a tonneau cover ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and how you use your truck. If you prioritize security, weather protection, and organized storage, a truck canopy is the better option. It creates a lockable, enclosed space that shields cargo from theft and the elements making it ideal for work trucks, overlanding adventures, or carrying expensive gear.

On the other hand, if you value versatility, low-profile sleek looks, ease of access, and fuel efficiency, a tonneau cover is the better fit. Its lightweight, low-profile design reduces drag and makes it easy to haul oversized cargo when needed.

However, not all camper shells and tonneau covers are made the same. To make the best investment, you should first determine which features are mandatory and which are desirable. Consider factors such as material quality, locking mechanisms, weather resistance, and ease of installation. A camper shell built specifically for overlanding activities like the A.R.E. Overland Series Truck Cap will be very different from a truck topper like the A.R.E. DCU Series Truck Cap a pool cleaner would prefer.

Next, focus on purchasing from reputable, high-quality manufacturers known for durability and reliability. Brands with strong warranties and proven performance will ensure you get the most value and longevity from your truck bed cover, whether you choose the security of a canopy or the flexibility of a tonneau cover.

Camper Shell Vs. Tonneau Cover: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle Best?

Ultimately, choosing between a camper shell vs tonneau cover depends on how you use your truck and what demands you place on it. If you spend your days hauling tools, running errands, or heading out on weekend adventures, you need a cover that keeps up.

Either way, adding a quality truck bed cover, topper, cap, canopy, camper shell, or tonneau cover, will make your truck more protected, usable, convenient, and ready for whatever you throw at it. Ready to upgrade your truck bed? Explore RealTruck’s selection of truck toppers and tonneau covers to find the perfect fit for your ride.