
Magnetic Car Shade vs. Tint Window: LUX Test Results Unveiled
January 11, 2021Many individuals are unaware of the significant distinctions between magnetic car shades (mesh cloth type) and tinted windows. Here, we aim to shed light on this topic, providing valuable information to aid you in your decision-making process when considering car shade options.
To offer a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of car shades and window tinting, we conducted our test and presented the results for your consideration. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed choices when purchasing shades for the protection of your loved ones during travels.
A vehicle without Tint or Car Shade:
When a vehicle lacks window tinting or car shades, passengers endure strong sunlight and UV exposure while travelling. The Lux reading in this scenario is 2986.
Since testing vehicle window has a fixed rear section, tinted, which blocks some light already. If tested on a car without tint, the reading could be higher.

Car without car shade and window tint
Car Window Tinting:
The primary purpose of car window tinting is UV protection achieved through its optical properties. Although effective in blocking UV, tinting has its pros and cons.
Pros:
- Effectively blocks UV
- Reduces light transmission
- Retains clear vision
Cons:
- Ineffective when the car window is down
- Expensive installation
- Not easily removed or replaced
With just legal tint and no car sunshade, the Lux reading is 1164, reducing light transmission by approximately 61%.

Vehicle with tinted window, without car window shade
Car Window Shades:
Car window shades primarily provide shading by physically blocking sunlight. They significantly reduce strong sunlight from entering the car interior, with some UV protection.
Pros:
- Greatly reduces sunlight
- Easy to install and remove
- Maintains light blocking even when the window is down
Cons:
- Less efficient in UV filtration compared to tinted windows
- Slightly affects vision
When the testing vehicle had only a car window shade, the Lux reading was 1045, reducing light transmission by approximately 65%.
Shade mesh density varies between suppliers. We select the best and well-balanced mesh to maximize sunlight blocking with the least reduction in safety driving vision

Vehicle with car shade only
A Combination of Car Shade & Tinted Window:
Combining tinted windows and car shades is recommended for optimal protection.
When the testing vehicle had both a car window shade and tinted window, the Lux reading was 710, reducing light transmission by approximately 76%.

Vehicle with both tinted window and car shade
Additional Benefits of Mesh Car Window Shade:
Apart from sunlight blocking, providing a darker environment for babies & kids, car shades offer several additional benefits:
- Exceptional Privacy: Car shades provide better privacy protection than legal tint, akin to one-way vision film on public transportation advertisements.
- Stop Prying Eyes: Car shades make it challenging for outsiders to see inside your car, reducing the risk of break-ins.
- Continuous Protection: Even with car windows down, shades act as tinted windows, blocking light and UV while allowing fresh air into the vehicle.
- Block Inserts: Prevent flies and mosquitoes from entering your car interior when the window is down.
In conclusion, a combination of tinted windows and car shades provides the most effective protection. Explore our selection of mesh car window shades for enhanced driving comfort and safety.
Note: Lux readings are a unit for measuring illuminance, indicating the intensity of light as perceived by the human eye.
RVSUNSHADES® is specialized in
sun shades products for
cars, recreational vehicles, caravans & motorhomes.