BAKFlip MX4 vs. RetraxPRO: The Battle of the Hard Bed Covers
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You own a 2015–2020 Ford F-150. You have a bed full of tools, camping gear, or groceries. And you are tired of checking the weather forecast every time you park.
You need a hard tonneau cover.
The two titans of the industry are the BAKFlip MX4 (Hard Folding) and the RetraxPRO XR (Retractable). Both turn your truck bed into a secure vault. Both look sleek and flush-mounted. But they function very differently.
The BAKFlip offers 100% bed access by folding up against the cab, while the Retrax offers unmatched convenience by sliding open with a single hand—but sacrifices some space to the storage canister.
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of folding vs. rolling to help you decide which premium cover deserves a spot on your truck.
Compare Tonneau Styles
Which cover fits your daily life?
|
Cover Style |
Security |
Bed Access |
Best For |
|
Hard Folding |
High. Aluminum/Composite panels. |
Full. Props up against rear window. |
Everyday Use. Secure like a trunk, folds away when hauling. |
|
Retractable |
High. Metal slats lock in rails. |
Partial. Canister blocks front 10". |
Luxury/Convenience. Sliding open with one hand. |
|
Soft Roll-Up |
Low. Vinyl can be cut. |
Full. Rolls tight to cab. |
Budget. Keeping rain/snow off groceries. |
|
One-Piece (Painted) |
Max. Overlapping lip. |
Low. Hinges up like a clam. |
Style. Paint-matched look; limits hauling tall items. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Bed Covers)
Is a tonneau cover 100% waterproof?
Technically, No. We call them "Weather Resistant." While premium covers (like the BAKFlip or Retrax) feature rubber seals and drain tubes to channel water out, a high-pressure car wash or driving rainstorm can force a few drops in near the tailgate or corners. Your cargo will stay 99% dry, but don't put expensive electronics directly on the floor near the edges.
Will a bed cover improve my gas mileage?
Yes. By covering the bed, you smooth out the airflow and reduce drag (the "parachute effect" of the tailgate). Studies show you can gain ~1 MPG on the highway, meaning a quality cover eventually pays for itself.
Can I install it myself?
Yes. Most covers for the 2015-2020 F-150 are "No-Drill" installs. They use clamps that bite onto the aluminum bed rail lip. A Soft Roll-Up takes about 20 minutes; a Hard Folding cover takes about 45 minutes. You usually just need a socket wrench and a screwdriver.
Stop worrying about your cargo.
Protect your tools from thieves and weather. Shop our verified collection of 2015–2020 F-150 Bed Covers from BAKFlip, TruXedo, and Retrax.