Understanding Different 3M Window Tint Percentages
Which 3M Window Tint is Right for You?
December 20, 2024 – Window tinting is a popular modification for car owners in Orlando. It increases privacy, adds curb appeal and helps reduce heat and glare. However, when it comes to selecting the right 3M window tint, there are a few different percentage options to consider.
Each tint percentage offers different levels of visibility, heat rejection, and privacy. This article will break down the differences between them so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
In this blog post, we will break down the pros and cons of six common window tint percentages: 5%, 15%, 20%, 35%, 50%, and 70%. Whether you’re looking for privacy, UV protection, or just a cooler interior, each tint level has its own advantages and drawbacks.
If you’re interested in protecting your car’s paint with 3M Paint Protection Film or changing its appearance with a vinyl wrap, read more about our award-winning Orlando automotive services or give us a call at (407) 841-2123.
What is 3M Window Tinting?
Our window tinting process is relatively straightforward: a thin, pre-cut window film is applied to the car’s windows after a thorough cleaning. 3M automotive window films are manufactured with different grades of materials, such as dyed, nano-ceramic, full ceramic and Crystalline.
These tiers of film offer different degrees of infrared heat rejection, but they all block up to 99% of harmful UV rays from the sun.
Pro Tint of Orlando provides computer-cut window tint services – meaning that our films will be laser cut to meet the exact specifications of your auto glass before they even touch your car.
Types of 3M Automotive Window Films:
- 3M Obsidian Series: Designed to provide effective heat rejection, privacy and style at a highly competitive price point. Contains 3M patented infused technology which helps prevent purpling and improved durability.
- 3M Color Stable (CS-IR): Originally a nano-carbon polyester film, this film has been upgraded with nano-ceramic technology which provides an incredible look and amazing color stability that never fades.
- 3M Ceramic IR: Developed with a nano-ceramic technology that provides a higher level of infrared heat rejection due to its absorptive technology.
- 3M Crystalline: Our top-tier film features a proprietary, multilayer optical film technology that combines over 200 layers in a film that is thinner than a Post-it note. Blocks more infrared rays than other films at the same tint percentage.
Benefits of Window Tint:
- Rejects Harmful UV Rays: All 3M window films protect your occupants and interior from fading by rejecting up to 99% of UV rays.
- Increased Privacy: With tinted windows, it will be harder for outsiders to see inside your vehicle, protecting your passengers and belongings from unwanted attention.
- Infrared Heat Reduction: Lower the amount of heat that passes through your car’s windows with 3M window tint. It reduces the load on your air conditioner and helps keep the inside of your car cool and comfortable.
- Blocks The Glare: A high quality 3M window film virtually eliminates the glare from the sun and bright headlights, improving driver safety and overall comfort.
5% Tint (Limo Tint / Blackout Tint)
Pros of 5% Tint:
- Maximum Privacy: 5% tint is extremely dark, often referred to as “limo tint” due to its use in high-end vehicles and limousines. It offers nearly complete privacy by significantly reducing visibility from the outside.
- Infrared Rejection: Darker shades of window films always reject more heat, so naturally the darkest tint will keep your car cooler for longer against the sun’s infrared rays.
- Curb Appeal: 5% tint can be highly attractive to certain drivers, who refer to it as “blackout tint”. It provides a unique look and feel that can not be matched by lighter tint shades.
Cons of 5% Tint:
- Greatly Reduced Visibility: This level of tint is so dark that it can be dangerous in low-light conditions, such as during nighttime driving. Visibility is severely restricted, especially for the driver and passengers.
- Legal Issues: Many states and countries have laws in place regulating car window tinting, including Florida. 5% tint is illegal to install on the windshield and side windows in most cases. In Florida, having illegal tint is a secondary offense. This means that you can’t be pulled over for just having 5% tint on your car, but you can get a ticket for it if you’re pulled over for another reason, like speeding. We recommend everyone to educate themselves on Florida’s window tint laws before choosing this tint percentage.
- Possible Fines: Since it’s often illegal in certain jurisdictions, getting a ticket for illegal tint could result in fines. You may also be asked to remove the 5% tint from your car.
15% Tint
Pros of 15% Tint:
- Excellent Privacy: 15% tint is still very dark, providing a substantial level of privacy for the vehicle’s occupants. It’s a popular choice for those who want to block out the prying eyes of passersby without completely blacking out the windows.
- UV & Heat Rejection: Like 5% tint, 15% also offers excellent protection from harmful UV rays and helps keep the car cooler by blocking heat in the form of infrared rays.
Cons of 15% Tint:
- Reduced Visibility: While not as dark as 5%, 15% still limits visibility significantly, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Drivers who struggle to see at night under normal conditions should choose a lighter tint shade, like 30% for their side windows.
- Legal Restrictions: As with 5% tint, this tint percentage may be illegal in Florida to use for front driver and passenger windows on cars like sedans and coupes. However, it may be permitted for utility vehicles like SUVs. Check first to see if your window tint complies with local regulations before getting it installed.
20% Tint
Pros of 20% Tint:
- Balanced Privacy & Visibility: 20% tint provides a good level of privacy without significantly impairing nighttime visibility. It’s a popular choice for drivers who prefer a darker look but still need to see clearly at night.
- Heat & UV Protection: Offers strong protection against UV rays and reduces the heat inside your car, keeping you comfortable during Florida’s summer months. For example, 3M Crystalline at 20% will actually block more infrared rays than most ceramic window films at a 5% tint.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many car owners prefer the sleek, stylish look of 20% tint, as it gives the vehicle a sophisticated appearance. Darker tints than 20% can have the effect of making a car look more aggressive.
Cons of 20% Tint:
- Not Necessarily Legal: Depending on the jurisdiction and vehicle type, 20% tint may be illegal for front windows or windshields in Florida. Always check local regulations first.
- Moderate Night Visibility Impact: 20% is noticeably lighter than 5% or even 15% tint, but it can still reduce visibility at night. This is especially true when driving in poorly lit areas.
30-35% Tint (Legal Tint*)
Pros of 30-35% Tint:
- Increased Privacy & Clarity: Tint between 30-35% tint strikes a balance between privacy and visibility, offering some protection from prying eyes without being excessively dark.
- Legal in Most States*: In Florida, any tint with more than 30% visible light transmission is typically legal for the front driver and passenger windows, making it a more universally acceptable choice.
- Good Heat & UV Protection: It still provides up to 99% UV protection and helps reduce the amount of heat entering the vehicle.
Cons of 30-35% Tint:
- Moderate Privacy: While providing some privacy, 30% and 35% tints don’t offer the higher levels of seclusion that darker tints like 5% or 15% provide. Passengers and valuables inside the car are still somewhat visible during the day.
- Less Pronounced Aesthetics: Some may find that 30-35% tints don’t deliver the bold, high-end look that darker tints offer when applied to the sides and rear windows. However, as a dark tint on their front windshield, these tint percentages make a bold statement.
50% Tint
Pros of 50% Tint:
- Optimal Visibility: With 50% tint, visibility is only slightly reduced, making it a great option for those who need to maintain clarity while still enjoying some tint benefits. It provides moderate visibility when applied to the front windshield.
- Legal & Functional: It’s legal in most states, offering a good balance of UV protection and heat without any legal consequences or substantial aesthetic change. 50% tint is not legal in most states to apply to the front windshield, though it may not be immediately picked up upon inspection.
- Comfortable Driving: 50% tint provides a noticeable reduction in heat and glare from the sun, especially 3M Crystalline. This film excels at eliminating heat and glare without substantially darkening your windows.
Cons of 50% Tint:
- Limited Privacy: At 50%, your car’s interior is visible to the outside, which means it doesn’t provide much privacy when applied to the side windows and rear glass. It does provide more privacy when applied to the front windshield, since the glass is curved.
- Minimal Aesthetic Impact: 50% and 70% tint are primarily installed to reduce heat and glare from the sun, especially on the front windshield, as they don’t impair visibility and are closer to a factory appearance.
70% Tint
Pros of 70% Tint:
- Minimal Visibility Reduction: At 70%, the tint is very light and barely noticeable, making it ideal for those who want the benefits of UV protection and heat reduction without sacrificing visibility.
- Legal & Safe: 70% tint is often the maximum allowable tint for front windows and windshields in many regions, making it a safe and legal option for most drivers.
- UV Protection: Despite its light nature, a 3M film at 70% tint still blocks up to 99& of UV rays, helping protect your vehicle’s interior and your skin from the sun damage.
Cons of 70% Tint:
- Limited Privacy: 70% tint provides little privacy, as it’s almost as clear as regular glass. Anyone can easily see into the vehicle, making it a poor choice for those seeking seclusion.
- Less Heat Reduction: Unless it’s a ceramic tint like 3M Ceramic IR or 3M Crystalline, 70% tint may not be as effective in keeping your car cool during the Florida’s hot summer days.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 3M window tint percentage depends largely on whether you value privacy, curb appeal, heat reduction, or visibility. If privacy is your top concern, tints like 5% or 15% might be ideal. If you prefer a more balanced approach, 20% or 35% tint offers a good compromise.
For those who need maximum visibility through their sides and rear glass, 50% tint may be the best choice.
With regards to front windshields, 70% is the lightest choice, blocking heat without sacrificing visibility or risking potential tickets from law enforcement. 50% tint is the next step down, followed by either 30% or 35% to complete a “blacked out” tint aesthetic.
However, it will be more challenging to drive in low-light conditions and at night with dark tint on the windshield.
Regardless of which percentage you choose, always check with your local laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
Pro Tint of Orlando: Central Florida’s 3M Pro Shop Dealer
At Pro Tint of Orlando, we specialize in providing industry-leading 3M window films, paint protection film, and color change vinyl wrapping solutions to our customers in Central Florida.
We guarantee all of our automotive window tint installations through a lifetime national warranty backed by 3M Corporation.
As Orlando’s only authorized 3M Pro Shop Dealer, we offer superior product knowledge and expertise with 3M’s automotive, commercial and residential product lines.
Our hard work and diligent service to the Central Florida community has earned us multiple awards, including being recognized as the #1 3M Automotive Window Tint Dealer in the United States.
Additionally, every year from 2019 – 2023 we have been awarded for our excellence in service, quality and innovation as a 3M Pro Shop Dealer.
Just give us a call at (407) 841-2123 or visit one our shops whenever you’re ready to upgrade your car with ceramic window tint or to add invaluable paint protection against the hazards on the road.
We’re open 7 days a week, and our friendly team is always standing by to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Understanding Different 3M Window Tint Percentages
Which 3M Window Tint is Right for You?
December 20, 2024 – Window tinting is a popular modification for car owners in Orlando. It increases privacy, adds curb appeal and helps reduce heat and glare. However, when it comes to selecting the right 3M window tint, there are a few different percentage options to consider.
Each tint percentage offers different levels of visibility, heat rejection, and privacy. This article will break down the differences between them so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
In this blog post, we will break down the pros and cons of six common window tint percentages: 5%, 15%, 20%, 35%, 50%, and 70%. Whether you’re looking for privacy, UV protection, or just a cooler interior, each tint level has its own advantages and drawbacks.
If you’re interested in protecting your car’s paint with 3M Paint Protection Film or changing its appearance with a vinyl wrap, read more about our award-winning Orlando automotive services or give us a call at (407) 841-2123.
What is 3M Window Tinting?
Our window tinting process is relatively straightforward: a thin, pre-cut window film is applied to the car’s windows after a thorough cleaning. 3M automotive window films are manufactured with different grades of materials, such as dyed, nano-ceramic, full ceramic and Crystalline.
These tiers of film offer different degrees of infrared heat rejection, but they all block up to 99% of harmful UV rays from the sun.
Pro Tint of Orlando provides computer-cut window tint services – meaning that our films will be laser cut to meet the exact specifications of your auto glass before they even touch your car.
Types of 3M Automotive Window Films:
- 3M Obsidian Series: Designed to provide effective heat rejection, privacy and style at a highly competitive price point. Contains 3M patented infused technology which helps prevent purpling and improved durability.
- 3M Color Stable (CS-IR): Originally a nano-carbon polyester film, this film has been upgraded with nano-ceramic technology which provides an incredible look and amazing color stability that never fades.
- 3M Ceramic IR: Developed with a nano-ceramic technology that provides a higher level of infrared heat rejection due to its absorptive technology.
- 3M Crystalline: Our top-tier film features a proprietary, multilayer optical film technology that combines over 200 layers in a film that is thinner than a Post-it note. Blocks more infrared rays than other films at the same tint percentage.
Benefits of Window Tint:
- Rejects Harmful UV Rays: All 3M window films protect your occupants and interior from fading by rejecting up to 99% of UV rays.
- Increased Privacy: With tinted windows, it will be harder for outsiders to see inside your vehicle, protecting your passengers and belongings from unwanted attention.
- Infrared Heat Reduction: Lower the amount of heat that passes through your car’s windows with 3M window tint. It reduces the load on your air conditioner and helps keep the inside of your car cool and comfortable.
- Blocks The Glare: A high quality 3M window film virtually eliminates the glare from the sun and bright headlights, improving driver safety and overall comfort.
5% Tint (Limo Tint / Blackout Tint)
Pros of 5% Tint:
- Maximum Privacy: 5% tint is extremely dark, often referred to as “limo tint” due to its use in high-end vehicles and limousines. It offers nearly complete privacy by significantly reducing visibility from the outside.
- Infrared Rejection: Darker shades of window films always reject more heat, so naturally the darkest tint will keep your car cooler for longer against the sun’s infrared rays.
- Curb Appeal: 5% tint can be highly attractive to certain drivers, who refer to it as “blackout tint”. It provides a unique look and feel that can not be matched by lighter tint shades.
Cons of 5% Tint:
- Greatly Reduced Visibility: This level of tint is so dark that it can be dangerous in low-light conditions, such as during nighttime driving. Visibility is severely restricted, especially for the driver and passengers.
- Legal Issues: Many states and countries have laws in place regulating car window tinting, including Florida. 5% tint is illegal to install on the windshield and side windows in most cases. In Florida, having illegal tint is a secondary offense. This means that you can’t be pulled over for just having 5% tint on your car, but you can get a ticket for it if you’re pulled over for another reason, like speeding. We recommend everyone to educate themselves on Florida’s window tint laws before choosing this tint percentage.
- Possible Fines: Since it’s often illegal in certain jurisdictions, getting a ticket for illegal tint could result in fines. You may also be asked to remove the 5% tint from your car.
15% Tint
Pros of 15% Tint:
- Excellent Privacy: 15% tint is still very dark, providing a substantial level of privacy for the vehicle’s occupants. It’s a popular choice for those who want to block out the prying eyes of passersby without completely blacking out the windows.
- UV & Heat Rejection: Like 5% tint, 15% also offers excellent protection from harmful UV rays and helps keep the car cooler by blocking heat in the form of infrared rays.
Cons of 15% Tint:
- Reduced Visibility: While not as dark as 5%, 15% still limits visibility significantly, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Drivers who struggle to see at night under normal conditions should choose a lighter tint shade, like 30% for their side windows.
- Legal Restrictions: As with 5% tint, this tint percentage may be illegal in Florida to use for front driver and passenger windows on cars like sedans and coupes. However, it may be permitted for utility vehicles like SUVs. Check first to see if your window tint complies with local regulations before getting it installed.
20% Tint
Pros of 20% Tint:
- Balanced Privacy & Visibility: 20% tint provides a good level of privacy without significantly impairing nighttime visibility. It’s a popular choice for drivers who prefer a darker look but still need to see clearly at night.
- Heat & UV Protection: Offers strong protection against UV rays and reduces the heat inside your car, keeping you comfortable during Florida’s summer months. For example, 3M Crystalline at 20% will actually block more infrared rays than most ceramic window films at a 5% tint.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many car owners prefer the sleek, stylish look of 20% tint, as it gives the vehicle a sophisticated appearance. Darker tints than 20% can have the effect of making a car look more aggressive.
Cons of 20% Tint:
- Not Necessarily Legal: Depending on the jurisdiction and vehicle type, 20% tint may be illegal for front windows or windshields in Florida. Always check local regulations first.
- Moderate Night Visibility Impact: 20% is noticeably lighter than 5% or even 15% tint, but it can still reduce visibility at night. This is especially true when driving in poorly lit areas.
30-35% Tint (Legal Tint*)
Pros of 30-35% Tint:
- Increased Privacy & Clarity: Tint between 30-35% tint strikes a balance between privacy and visibility, offering some protection from prying eyes without being excessively dark.
- Legal in Most States*: In Florida, any tint with more than 30% visible light transmission is typically legal for the front driver and passenger windows, making it a more universally acceptable choice.
- Good Heat & UV Protection: It still provides up to 99% UV protection and helps reduce the amount of heat entering the vehicle.
Cons of 30-35% Tint:
- Moderate Privacy: While providing some privacy, 30% and 35% tints don’t offer the higher levels of seclusion that darker tints like 5% or 15% provide. Passengers and valuables inside the car are still somewhat visible during the day.
- Less Pronounced Aesthetics: Some may find that 30-35% tints don’t deliver the bold, high-end look that darker tints offer when applied to the sides and rear windows. However, as a dark tint on their front windshield, these tint percentages make a bold statement.
50% Tint
Pros of 50% Tint:
- Optimal Visibility: With 50% tint, visibility is only slightly reduced, making it a great option for those who need to maintain clarity while still enjoying some tint benefits. It provides moderate visibility when applied to the front windshield.
- Legal & Functional: It’s legal in most states, offering a good balance of UV protection and heat without any legal consequences or substantial aesthetic change. 50% tint is not legal in most states to apply to the front windshield, though it may not be immediately picked up upon inspection.
- Comfortable Driving: 50% tint provides a noticeable reduction in heat and glare from the sun, especially 3M Crystalline. This film excels at eliminating heat and glare without substantially darkening your windows.
Cons of 50% Tint:
- Limited Privacy: At 50%, your car’s interior is visible to the outside, which means it doesn’t provide much privacy when applied to the side windows and rear glass. It does provide more privacy when applied to the front windshield, since the glass is curved.
- Minimal Aesthetic Impact: 50% and 70% tint are primarily installed to reduce heat and glare from the sun, especially on the front windshield, as they don’t impair visibility and are closer to a factory appearance.
70% Tint
Pros of 70% Tint:
- Minimal Visibility Reduction: At 70%, the tint is very light and barely noticeable, making it ideal for those who want the benefits of UV protection and heat reduction without sacrificing visibility.
- Legal & Safe: 70% tint is often the maximum allowable tint for front windows and windshields in many regions, making it a safe and legal option for most drivers.
- UV Protection: Despite its light nature, a 3M film at 70% tint still blocks up to 99& of UV rays, helping protect your vehicle’s interior and your skin from the sun damage.
Cons of 70% Tint:
- Limited Privacy: 70% tint provides little privacy, as it’s almost as clear as regular glass. Anyone can easily see into the vehicle, making it a poor choice for those seeking seclusion.
- Less Heat Reduction: Unless it’s a ceramic tint like 3M Ceramic IR or 3M Crystalline, 70% tint may not be as effective in keeping your car cool during the Florida’s hot summer days.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 3M window tint percentage depends largely on whether you value privacy, curb appeal, heat reduction, or visibility. If privacy is your top concern, tints like 5% or 15% might be ideal. If you prefer a more balanced approach, 20% or 35% tint offers a good compromise.
For those who need maximum visibility through their sides and rear glass, 50% tint may be the best choice.
With regards to front windshields, 70% is the lightest choice, blocking heat without sacrificing visibility or risking potential tickets from law enforcement. 50% tint is the next step down, followed by either 30% or 35% to complete a “blacked out” tint aesthetic.
However, it will be more challenging to drive in low-light conditions and at night with dark tint on the windshield.
Regardless of which percentage you choose, always check with your local laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
Pro Tint of Orlando: Central Florida’s 3M Pro Shop Dealer
At Pro Tint of Orlando, we specialize in providing industry-leading 3M window films, paint protection film, and color change vinyl wrapping solutions to our customers in Central Florida.
We guarantee all of our automotive window tint installations through a lifetime national warranty backed by 3M Corporation.
As Orlando’s only authorized 3M Pro Shop Dealer, we offer superior product knowledge and expertise with 3M’s automotive, commercial and residential product lines.
Our hard work and diligent service to the Central Florida community has earned us multiple awards, including being recognized as the #1 3M Automotive Window Tint Dealer in the United States.
Additionally, every year from 2019 – 2023 we have been awarded for our excellence in service, quality and innovation as a 3M Pro Shop Dealer.
Just give us a call at (407) 841-2123 or visit one our shops whenever you’re ready to upgrade your car with ceramic window tint or to add invaluable paint protection against the hazards on the road.
We’re open 7 days a week, and our friendly team is always standing by to answer any questions or concerns you may have.