The difference between Carbon and Ceramic tint
Both carbon tint and ceramic tint are made of different materials. A carbon window tinting film is made of (you guessed it!) carbon, which gives a dark matte-black finish to the window film.
Ceramic window tint is made of non-metallic ceramic particles and is slightly lighter (in color) than a carbon window tint. Ceramic tint is also non-reflective, which means it won’t act as a mirror on those bright sunny days and is a major differentiator between the two tint types.
Carbon vs Ceramic: Which Is Better
In a straight-up comparison of features and quality, ceramic tint is the winner. However, there are some caveats…Although ceramic window tint is more durable and lasts longer, it also comes with a price tag.
If you don’t mind the higher cost then the ceramic tint is the one to choose because of its maximum efficiency in deflecting 99% of UV light, non-glare, and shatterproof feature.
While carbon film is also durable and environmentally-friendly you’ll need to be OK with the haze and glare that the carbon tint ‘throws off’. If the glare is not something that would bother you, carbon could also be a good option.
WINNER: CERAMIC TINT
Which is More Expensive: Carbon vs Ceramic Tint
When comparing pricing, carbon tint is going to be the more affordable option.
Ceramic tint is relatively new to the tinting market but is quickly developing traction and popularity.
WINNER: CERAMIC TINT
Will They Fade: Carbon vs Ceramic Tint
No matter how dark the ceramic film is, carbon tint is darker than ceramic tint because of its dense chemical makeup and shade of color.
Neither carbon nor ceramic film will fade, at least not for a very long time. That’s one of the reasons why they are the two best options when selecting window tint films.
WINNER: TIE
Is Ceramic Tint Worth The Extra Money?
Ceramic window tinting film might cost more than a carbon film but it has a tremendous advantage over any other window tint film. It is non-reflective unlike carbon film, prevents 99% of UV rays from entering the car’s interior, and provides shatter-proof protection if the glass is ever broken.
Can You Put Ceramic or Carbon Tint Over Another Tint?
Both carbon and ceramic window film can be placed on top of the factory tint. This is because the factory tint is actually inside the glass.
But, neither film can be placed over an aftermarket tint (which is not inside the glass). If you want to put another tint over it then it is better to remove the old tint and install the carbon/ceramic window tint over it.
Is carbon tint better than other tints?
Carbon window tint film is a better choice when compared to dyed or metallic window tint films.
Carbon is more durable, doesn’t fade away, and won’t block cell phones or GPS signals (like a metallic film may do). Carbon also prevents 40% of UV rays which is more than dyed or metallic window film blocks.