BAKFlip MX4 Vs. Revolver X4S: Which Truck Bed Cover Is Best?

Pickup truck owners know that an open truck bed leaves cargo exposed to the elements and potential thieves. That’s why truck bed covers have become a popular accessory.

Two of the most popular brands are BAKFlip and Extang, with their MX4 and Revolver X4S covers respectively. But which one is the better choice for your truck? Let’s take an in-depth look at the pros and cons of each.

A Brief Comparison Table

Here is a brief comparison table summarizing the key differences between the BAKFlip MX4 and Extang Revolver X4S truck bed covers:

Feature	BAKFlip MX4	Extang Revolver X4S
Material	Aluminum + fiberglass panels	Dent-resistant aluminum panels
Opening	Folds forward	Folds forward or removes easily
Latches	Exposed	Concealed low-profile design
Security	Reliable latching system	Integrated lock rods
Noise	Textured matte underside reduces noise	More wind noise when driving
Price	$$	$$$

How Truck Bed Covers Work

Truck bed covers sit over the bed rails and seal to protect cargo. Most open and close using a folding mechanism, allowing complete access to the bed when needed. Hard folding covers like the MX4 and Revolver X4S have panels made from aluminum or fiberglass. The panels lock together when closed.

Covers attach to the bed using clamps or a rail system. They take less than an hour for most DIY installs. When not being used, most can be removed easily if full truck bed access is needed.

BAKFlip MX4 Overview

The MX4 is a folding hard cover made from aluminum and fiberglass reinforced polymer panels. The underside is coated with a textured matte finish to reduce noise while driving.

It uses an upgraded latch system from previous BAKFlip covers. The side rails have a low-profile design with no exposed latch hardware on top. Opening and closing is very smooth with the upgraded hinge system.

The cover panels lock when closed to secure the bed. You can drive with the MX4 partially opened and folded forward if you need rear window access.

Revolver X4S Overview

Extang engineers designed the Revolver X4S for simple operation and security. The cover is made entirely from thick aluminum panels with a dent-resistant texture.

It has a flush-mount paddle latch system integrated into the rails. This provides a sleek exterior with seamless panel gaps when closed. The Revolver X4S hinges allow you to fold it forward or fully remove in minutes.

An added security feature is the dual locking rods on each side. You can lock the tailgate when the cover is closed to prevent theft. The rods pull the panels tight against the seal for a weatherproof fit.

Cover Design Comparison

While both covers are well-designed, there are some key differences:

• Panels – The MX4 uses aluminum and polymer while the Revolver X4S is all aluminum. The X4S panels are dent-resistant but the MX4 won’t show small dings and dents as easily.
• Opening – They both fold forward with gas struts to make opening easy. The X4S hinges allow you to fully remove the panels for total bed access.
• Hardware – The X4S has a cleaner look with concealed latches while the MX4 uses exposed latch handles. Both create a tight seal when closed.
• Security – The X4S has integrated lock rods to pull panels tighter when locking the tailgate. The MX4 relies on the latching system alone to secure the bed.

Weather Protection Performance

Keeping out the elements is the main job of a truck bed cover. How do the MX4 and Revolver X4S compare?

• Rain Protection – They both form a watertight seal along the bed rails when closed. Rain, snow, and light splashing while driving are no match for either cover.
• Dust – Small dust particles won’t get in but the seal isn’t completely airtight on either cover. Minimize dust by closing tailgate when parked.
• Sun Exposure – With the solid panel designs, both covers provide excellent UV protection for cargo in the bed. They help prevent interior fading.
• Wind Noise – The textured underside of the MX4 dampens noise from wind slightly better than the Revolver X4S. Not a major difference but an advantage of the MX4.
• Gas Mileage – Adding a hard cover can improve gas mileage by making the truck more aerodynamic. The MX4 and X4S are close to equal in this regard.

Ease Of Use Comparison

Convenience features determine how easy the covers are to use:

• Opening/Closing – The X4S is slightly smoother and easier thanks to the full width hinges. The MX4’s segmented panel design requires a little more effort when folding.
• Accessing Bed – With both folded forward, you can reach cargo near the cab. But the X4S removable panels make accessing the full bed quicker and easier.
• Installation – They install in a similar fashion by clamping on the bed rails. But the X4S has a rail-free option that most find simpler to attach initially.
• Removal – Want to take the cover off completely? The X4S is the clear winner. You just unlock the panels and lift off in a couple minutes without tools.

Security And Safety Features

How well do the covers protect your cargo and equipment from theft or damage? Here are the key factors:

• Locking System – The Revolver X4S dual lock rods pulls the cover extra tight to the bed when locked. The MX4 relies on the tight seal alone.
• Tamper Evidence – It’s harder to pry open the X4S panels with the tight lock rod system. The MX4 latch points are more vulnerable.
• Partial Opening – Both allow folding forward to access part of the bed when needed. This minimizes leaving cover open wide.
• Highway Safety – Opening panels at highway speeds creates wind drag and instability. But both are safe when following proper protocols.

Also Read: Toyota Tundra Platinum Vs. 1794: Which Luxury Truck Is Right?

Styling Comparison

A truck bed cover is also an aesthetic accessory that alters your truck’s appearance. Here are the styling factors:

• Color Options – The MX4 offers three colors: matte black, gloss black or silver. The X4S has eight color options including black, gray and blue.
• Exterior Finish – Both use a grain texture on the panel exterior to minimize scratches. The X4S finish seems more resistant to scuffs and abrasion.
• Profile View – The low profile side rails on the MX4 have a sleek integrated look. The X4S paddle latches protrude slightly when closed.
• Gaps – With the lock rods pulling it tight, the X4S has barely noticeable seams between panels. The MX4 panel spacing is clean as well but shows slight gaps.

Cost Comparison

With high quality construction, these covers fall on the premium end of the truck bed cover price spectrum:

• Base Models – The MX4 costs around $1,100 while the Revolver X4S has an MSRP of $1,400. So Extang’s cover costs about 25% more.
• Upgrade Options – Opting for color upgrades or rail-free installation adds $200-300 for the MX4. The X4S color options cost $100-150 more.
• Warranty – Both have a 3-year warranty when purchased new. This protects against defects and premature wear.
• Resale Value – Used in good condition, expect 40-60% of original purchase price based on cover age and demand. The X4S may command slightly higher resale.

Pros And Cons Summary

BAKFlip MX4	Revolver X4S
Fiberglass panels resist dents	Dent-resistant aluminum panels
Low profile rails provide sleek look	Concealed latches give flush exterior
Textured underside quiets wind noise	Easier full bed access when removed
Lighter weight than all aluminum	Tight weather seal with lock rods
Good value at base price point	More secure with locking tailgate option

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Clazzio Vs. Katzkin: The Battle For Premium Automotive Seat Covers

Conclusion

The BAKFlip MX4 and Extang Revolver X4S represent two excellent options for securing your truck bed. For most truck owners, the Revolver X4S is the better overall value. The premium price gets you dent-proof aluminum panels and better protection against theft.

Easier installation and removal are added benefits. But if you want a sleek profile and don’t need regular full bed access, the MX4 is a quality cover for slightly less investment. As long as you choose a reputable brand, you can rest assured your cargo will stay dry and secure.