If you’re considering getting your vehicle windows tinted, you may have encountered various tint percentages, like 20% and 35%. But how do you decide which one is right for you? Is a 20% tint darker than a 35% tint? And how do these tint levels affect the look, feel, and functionality of your vehicle?
In this guide, we’ll dive into the difference between these two tint percentages, explain how window tint works, and give you all the information you need to choose the right tint for your car. Let’s start by understanding what window tint percentages actually mean.
What Does Window Tint Percentage Mean?
Window tint percentages refer to the amount of visible light that can pass through your car’s windows. The percentage number represents how much light is allowed to pass through the glass, so the higher the number, the lighter the tint. For example:
- 20% tint means only 20% of visible light passes through the window, while 80% is blocked.
- 35% tint means 35% of visible light passes through the window, blocking 65% of the light.
The key takeaway here is that the lower the percentage, the darker the tint, which has significant implications for both the appearance and functionality of your vehicle.
Is 20% Tint Darker Than 35%?
To answer your question directly: Yes, 20% tint is darker than 35% tint. Here’s why:
- 20% Tint: With only 20% of visible light passing through, this is considered a very dark tint. It provides maximum privacy, especially for the passengers inside the car. When you’re inside a vehicle with 20% tint, you can see out, but it’s much harder for others to see inside.
- 35% Tint: This is still considered a medium-dark tint, but it allows more light in compared to 20%. While it provides a decent level of privacy, it’s still more transparent, allowing for clearer visibility from the outside.
Visual Comparison
To make it easier, think of it like this: If you were to look at a 20% tinted window in broad daylight, it would appear significantly darker, and you would likely have a hard time seeing inside the vehicle. In contrast, with a 35% tinted window, the glass is noticeably lighter, and it’s easier to see the interior of the car from a distance.
Here’s a simple visual guide:
| Tint Percentage | Visible Light Transmission | Exterior View |
|---|---|---|
| 20% Tint | 20% of light passes through | Very dark, hard to see inside |
| 35% Tint | 35% of light passes through | Dark, but easier to see inside |
So, if you’re after a darker, more private look, 20% tint is your go-to option. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, but still with a touch of privacy, then 35% tint is a good choice.
How to Choose Between 20% and 35% Tints?
Choosing between 20% and 35% window tint depends largely on your needs and preferences. Let’s look at some factors that could influence your decision:
Privacy
If privacy is your primary concern, you’ll likely want to go with a 20% tint. This tint level provides the highest degree of privacy, making it difficult for people to see into your vehicle. It’s perfect if you want to keep the contents of your car hidden, or if you’re often parked in busy areas.
However, some people find 20% tints too dark, especially for the front windows or when driving at night, as visibility from the inside can be limited. If you still want privacy but with a slightly more balanced level of visibility, 35% tint could be a better option.
Aesthetic Preference
Tint is as much about looks as it is about functionality. 20% tint gives your car a sleek, luxury appearance, often associated with high-end vehicles. It creates a bold look but can be seen as too aggressive by some.
On the other hand, 35% tint provides a more balanced look that still has a stylish, sophisticated appearance. It’s perfect if you want privacy but don’t want to sacrifice visibility too much.
Legal Considerations
Before you settle on a tint percentage, it’s important to check the legal tint regulations in your state or country. Some regions have strict laws about how dark your window tint can be. For example:
- Front Windshield: In many places, only a light tint (50% or higher) is allowed on the front windshield.
- Driver and Passenger Windows: The tint percentage can vary, but typically, 35% is considered legal in most states, while 20% may be illegal in some areas, especially on front windows.
Make sure to check the local laws to avoid fines or issues with law enforcement.
UV Protection
Both 20% and 35% tints block a significant amount of UV rays, which can help protect your car’s interior from fading and cracking. However, darker tints, like 20%, tend to block more UV rays, offering slightly better protection. Additionally, dark tints can also keep the cabin cooler by reducing the amount of heat that enters the car.
Nighttime Visibility
One of the trade-offs with darker tints is that nighttime visibility can be significantly reduced. With a 20% tint, driving at night or in low-light conditions can become more challenging, especially when parking or changing lanes. 35% tint, being lighter, provides better visibility at night, making it a more practical option for people who drive frequently after dark.
Advantages of 20% Window Tint
If you’re leaning towards 20% tint, here are some of the key advantages:
Maximum Privacy
The primary advantage of a 20% tint is its ability to keep the interior of your car hidden from the outside world. Whether you’re traveling with valuables, personal items, or just want to enjoy some privacy, 20% tint makes it hard for anyone to see inside.
Aesthetic Appeal
For those looking for that high-end, luxury vehicle look, 20% tint delivers just that. It’s sleek, bold, and makes your car stand out on the road. It’s a popular choice for car enthusiasts who want their vehicle to look sophisticated.
Better Heat and UV Protection
A darker tint also provides better heat rejection and UV protection. If you live in a hot climate, 20% tint will help keep your car cooler and reduce sun exposure, protecting both your car’s interior and your skin.
Advantages of 35% Window Tint
If you’re still undecided, here’s why you might want to consider 35% tint:
Balanced Privacy and Visibility
35% tint strikes a balance between privacy and visibility. It provides a decent level of privacy without overly darkening the windows. If you want a subtle, classy look with a little more transparency, 35% tint is ideal.
Legal Compliance
In most regions, 35% tint is often the legal limit for front and side windows, making it a safer choice in terms of legality. You can avoid fines or legal issues with this tint level.
Improved Nighttime Visibility
Unlike darker tints, 35% tint doesn’t significantly obstruct visibility, especially at night. If you frequently drive after dark, this tint ensures you can still see clearly without compromising on privacy.
Conclusion: Which Tint Should You Choose?
In the battle of 20% vs. 35% tint, the choice comes down to your personal needs and preferences.
- If maximum privacy, a luxury appearance, and better UV protection are your priorities, 20% tint is the way to go.
- If you prefer a more balanced look, with better visibility at night and compliance with local tinting laws, then 35% tint might be your ideal option.
Before making your final decision, remember to check your local laws regarding window tinting and consider how much darkness you are comfortable with. No matter which option you choose, both tint percentages will provide great privacy, UV protection, and an enhanced appearance for your vehicle.
