Window Tinting
Best LLumar Window Tint 2026: Complete Buying Guide
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·8 min read
Best LLumar window tint guide: ATC vs CTX vs IRX comparison. Which LLumar film is right for you? Specs, pricing, and honest recommendations.
LLumar makes some of the best window tint films available—but with three ceramic options (ATC, CTX, IRX), choosing the right one can be confusing. This guide breaks down exactly which LLumar tint is best for YOUR situation.
At Blackout Window Tinting, we've installed thousands of LLumar films since 1993. Here's our insider guide to choosing wisely.
LLumar Window Tint Lineup
| Film | Type | Heat Rejection | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATC | Ceramic | Up to 45% TSER | $ | Budget buyers |
| CTX | Ceramic | Up to 55% TSER | $$ | Value seekers |
| IRX | Nano-ceramic | Up to 63% TSER | $$$ | Maximum performance |
Quick Recommendation
Not sure which to choose? Here's our quick guide:
| Your Priority | Best LLumar Film |
|---|---|
| Lowest cost ceramic | ATC |
| Best value | CTX |
| Maximum heat rejection | IRX |
| Long-term durability | IRX |
| Tesla/glass roof | IRX |
| Occasional driver | ATC or CTX |
LLumar ATC: Entry Ceramic
Specs
- Heat Rejection: Up to 45% TSER
- UV Rejection: 99%
- Infrared Rejection: Up to 60%
- Price: $250-$350 (sedan)
Pros
✅ Lowest-cost ceramic option
✅ No signal interference
✅ LLumar quality and warranty
✅ Good UV protection
Cons
❌ Lower heat rejection than CTX/IRX
❌ Less stain resistant
❌ May feel insufficient in hot climates
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Mild climates
- Occasional drivers
- First-time tint buyers
LLumar CTX: Mid-Range Value
Specs
- Heat Rejection: Up to 55% TSER
- UV Rejection: 99%
- Infrared Rejection: Up to 80%
- Price: $300-$400 (sedan)
Pros
✅ Significant upgrade over ATC
✅ Reasonable price increase
✅ Good balance of performance and value
✅ Suitable for most climates
Cons
❌ Not maximum performance
❌ Less stain resistant than IRX
❌ May wish you'd upgraded later
Best For
- Value-focused buyers
- Moderate climates
- Covered parking situations
- Most daily drivers
LLumar IRX: Premium Performance
Specs
- Heat Rejection: Up to 63% TSER
- UV Rejection: 99%
- Infrared Rejection: Up to 97%
- Price: $400-$550 (sedan)
Pros
✅ Maximum heat rejection
✅ Best stain resistance
✅ Nano-ceramic technology
✅ Longest-lasting performance
✅ Best for hot climates
Cons
❌ Highest price
❌ May be overkill for mild climates
❌ Premium over CTX may not be justified for everyone
Best For
- Maximum heat rejection needs
- Hot climates (Bay Area summers)
- Tesla and glass roof vehicles
- Long-term ownership
- Those who want the best
Side-by-Side Comparison
Heat Rejection Test
| Film | Cool Off Time | Interior Temp Drop |
|---|---|---|
| ATC | 5-7 min | 10-12°F |
| CTX | 4-6 min | 12-15°F |
| IRX | 3-5 min | 18-22°F |
Pricing by Vehicle
| Vehicle | ATC | CTX | IRX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | $250-$350 | $300-$400 | $400-$550 |
| SUV | $300-$400 | $350-$450 | $500-$650 |
| Large SUV | $375-$475 | $425-$525 | $600-$750 |
| Tesla 3/Y | $325-$400 | $375-$475 | $500-$600 |
Long-Term Value
| Factor | ATC | CTX | IRX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected life | 8-10 years | 10-12 years | 12-15+ years |
| Stain resistance | Fair | Good | Excellent |
| Yellowing resistance | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Resale value impact | Minimal | Moderate | Highest |
How to Choose
Choose ATC if:
- Budget is primary concern
- You live in a mild climate
- Car is parked in covered spaces
- You're okay with basic ceramic performance
Choose CTX if:
- You want better performance at reasonable cost
- Your climate is moderate
- You want good value without premium pricing
- You're practical about cost vs benefit
Choose IRX if:
- Heat rejection is critical priority
- You live in a hot climate
- You have a Tesla or glass roof vehicle
- You plan long-term ownership
- You want the best and can afford it
Common Questions
What's the difference between CTX and IRX?
CTX uses standard ceramic technology; IRX uses advanced nano-ceramic. Result: IRX blocks ~15% more heat and has better stain resistance.
Is LLumar IRX worth the extra money?
For hot climates and glass roof vehicles, yes. For mild climates with covered parking, CTX may be sufficient.
How does LLumar compare to 3M?
LLumar ATC ≈ 3M Color Stable
LLumar CTX ≈ 3M Ceramic IR
LLumar IRX ≈ 3M Crystalline (but often better value)
Which LLumar tint is best for Tesla?
IRX. Tesla's large glass areas benefit most from maximum heat rejection. The premium is worth it.
Can I mix different LLumar films on one car?
Technically yes, but we don't recommend it. Different films age differently and may look mismatched over time.
Which VLT should I choose with LLumar?
Legal limits vary by state. In California:
- Front sides: 70%+ VLT required
- Rear sides: Any darkness legal
- Rear window: Any darkness legal
Most customers choose 35% (medium) or 20% (dark) for rear windows.
Our Recommendation
After 30+ years installing LLumar, here's our honest take:
For most Bay Area drivers, we recommend CTX or IRX:
- CTX for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality
- IRX for those who want maximum comfort and can invest in it
ATC is fine for occasional vehicles or tight budgets, but the jump to CTX is worth the extra $50-$75 for most people.
Get the Best LLumar Installed
At Blackout Window Tinting, we're authorized LLumar dealers with:
- All three ceramic options – ATC, CTX, IRX in stock
- Free consultations – We'll help you choose
- Same-day installation – Most vehicles done in hours
- Lifetime warranty – Backed by LLumar and us
📍 Location: 610 Holloway Rd, Gilroy (behind Target)
📞 Call: 408-848-8468
🎯 Get Your Free Quote →
Related Articles
- Comparing 3 LLumar Window Films
- LLumar IRX Review 2026
- LLumar CTX Review 2026
- LLumar vs XPEL Window Tint
31+ years
The team at Blackout Window Tinting has been serving the Bay Area since 1993, providing premium window tinting and vehicle protection services.
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