I had the opportunity to experience both a RetraxPro MX and a Truck Covers USA American roll cover. Both of these tonneau covers were installed and utilized for 6+ months each on the same 2022 Ram 3500 with a 6’4” bed with Ramboxes. I only made the switch due to the RetraxPro not offering rails on my particle vehicle.
Since both truck covers were high quality, made in America, with outstanding warranties, I will only focus on what I experience as the difference between them.
Locking Mechanism
RetraxPro MX has its lock and release located on the rear driver’s side. As the release is on top of the cover and exposed to the world, it is required to lock and unlock with the key every time you wish to roll the cover back. It does allow for locking a partially retracted cover.
Truck Covers USA has a pull release that is underneath the cover and secured by locking your tailgate. This means you do not have to keep track of a separate key, just lower your tailgate and pull the release. It is not as easy to lock the cover in a partially retracted state but I never find myself needing that feature. I greatly prefer the quick release and not fumbling with yet another key.
Canister Size
Truck Covers USA has a smaller canister measuring in at 8" by 8" while the Retrax Pro canister was larger at 12" by 12". This might not sound like a large difference but it is very noticeable in available bed length and when you go to store cargo underneath the canister.
Install with Rambox Silver Cargo Rails
RetraxPro was mounted on top of the silver cargo rails that are commonly found with the Rambox Cargo Management System. With the RetraxPro installed, I was still able to utilize the side rails of the system.
Truck Covers USA fully replaced the silver cargo rails. While I can’t say for sure, it might be related to the need for more support
Drainage
Both systems leaked around the perimeter of the cover even after professional installs and require a mat (hey, we happen to sell one of those!) if you intend to keep cargo from soaking up the water that collects in the bed. This is likely a consequence of the Ramboxes. Retrax included two drainage hoses underneath the canister near the cab. Truck Covers USA included four – two underneath the canister near the cab and two near the tailgate. The two near the tailgate survived less than 1 hour as they were easily caught when sliding cargo out of the bed.
Rail Systems
While Retrax offers a T-slot rail compatible with Yakima, Thule, and Rhino Rack, they do not offer it for a 6’4” bed with Ramboxes while Truck Covers USA does. This was the reason for my switch from Retrax.