The Two Giants of Paint Protection Film
When it comes to premium paint protection film, two names dominate the conversation: SunTek and XPEL. Both offer top-tier protection, but they're not identical.
Important Note: At Blackout Window Tinting, we install SunTek, STEK, 3M, and LLumar PPF—not XPEL. This comparison is to help you make an informed decision, whether you choose our services or go elsewhere for XPEL.
SunTek Ultra PPF: Key Features
SunTek Ultra is SunTek's flagship paint protection film, designed for maximum clarity and protection.
Advanced Self-Healing Technology
SunTek Ultra's topcoat responds to heat exposure—either from the sun or warm water—to heal light scratches and swirl marks. In Bay Area conditions, most minor scratches disappear within hours of sun exposure.
Hydrophobic Surface
The film sheds water and contaminants effectively, making washing easier and reducing water spots. This matters significantly for daily drivers that don't get detailed every week.
High Gloss Finish
SunTek Ultra maintains a glossy appearance that closely matches factory paint. The film is virtually invisible when properly installed.
10-Year Warranty
SunTek backs Ultra with a 10-year manufacturer warranty covering yellowing, cracking, peeling, staining, and hazing.
XPEL Ultimate Plus PPF: Key Features
XPEL Ultimate Plus is XPEL's premium offering, known for its pattern database and installer network.
DAP (Design Access Program)
XPEL's massive pattern library covers virtually every vehicle, year, and configuration. This means precise, computer-cut patterns for most installations—though we still hand-cut for optimal coverage on edges and complex curves.
Self-Healing Topcoat
XPEL Ultimate Plus also features a self-healing topcoat that activates with heat. Performance is comparable to SunTek Ultra in real-world conditions.
Edge Seal Technology
The film's edges are designed to resist lifting and peeling, which is crucial for long-term durability in areas where the film meets painted surfaces.
10-Year Warranty
XPEL also offers a 10-year warranty, covering similar defects as SunTek. Their warranty is fully transferable to subsequent owners—a nice benefit for resale value.
| Feature | SunTek Ultra | XPEL Ultimate Plus |
| -------------------- | -------------------- | ---------------------- |
| Thickness | 8 mils | 8 mils |
| Self-Healing | Yes (heat-activated) | Yes (heat-activated) |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
| Finish Options | Gloss, Matte | Gloss, Matte (Stealth) |
| Pattern Database | Yes | Yes (larger) |
| Hydrophobic | Yes | Yes |
| Stain Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
Which Heals Better?
In our testing, both films self-heal minor scratches comparably. XPEL may have a slight edge on very light swirls, while SunTek seems slightly more resistant to staining from tree sap and bird droppings. The difference is marginal—both perform excellently.
Which Lasts Longer?
With proper care, both films easily last their 10-year warranty period. We've seen both films still performing well after 7-8 years on customer vehicles. Longevity depends more on maintenance than brand choice.
Which Looks Better?
Both films are virtually invisible on light-colored vehicles. On darker paints (especially black), some installers find SunTek slightly easier to achieve a perfectly invisible result. Again, the difference is subtle and installation quality matters more than the film itself.
Pricing: SunTek vs XPEL
Pricing varies by coverage level and vehicle size. Here's what you can expect at our Gilroy shop:
| Coverage | SunTek Ultra | XPEL Ultimate Plus |
| -------------------------------------------------- | ------------- | ------------------ |
| Partial Front (hood, fenders, mirrors) | $1,200-$1,800 | $1,400-$2,000 |
| Full Front (+ full hood, full fenders, bumper) | $1,800-$2,800 | $2,000-$3,200 |
| Track Pack (full front + rockers + door cups) | $2,800-$3,800 | $3,000-$4,200 |
| Full Vehicle | $5,500-$8,000 | $6,000-$9,000 |
XPEL typically commands a 10-20% premium over SunTek. Is the extra cost worth it? That depends on your priorities.
When to Choose SunTek Ultra
Choose SunTek if:
- Value matters: You get 95% of XPEL's performance at 80-90% of the price
- You want matte finish options: SunTek Matte is excellent for wraps or matte factory paints
- Your priority is stain resistance: Slightly better performance against environmental contaminants
- You're protecting a daily driver: Outstanding protection without the premium price
Best SunTek applications:
- Daily drivers and commuter vehicles
- Trucks and SUVs (larger surface area = bigger savings)
- Matte or satin paint/wrap protection
When to Choose XPEL Ultimate Plus
Choose XPEL if:
- Transferable warranty matters: Planning to sell the vehicle? XPEL's warranty transfers
- Pattern complexity: Vehicle has unusual body lines or limited pattern availability
- Brand recognition: XPEL is more widely recognized, which may help resale
- Track or motorsport use: XPEL has more track-specific coverage patterns available
Best XPEL applications:
- High-value vehicles (Porsche, Ferrari, etc.)
- Vehicles you may sell before warranty expires
- Track cars and weekend toys
- Exotic or limited-production vehicles
What About Tesla Owners?
Tesla owners get excellent results from both brands. Here's our recommendation:
- Model 3/Y (high-volume daily driver): SunTek Ultra offers outstanding value
- Model S/X (higher value, often leased): XPEL's transferable warranty adds value
- Cybertruck: SunTek Matte for the stainless steel look, XPEL Stealth also works well
Both films handle Tesla's notoriously soft paint equally well. The key is proper prep and professional installation—not which brand you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most daily drivers, no. SunTek Ultra provides comparable protection and appearance at a lower price point. XPEL's premium is justified for high-value vehicles where the transferable warranty and brand recognition add resale value.
Can I mix SunTek and XPEL on the same vehicle?
You can, but we don't recommend it. Minor differences in clarity and yellowing rates over time could become visible. Pick one brand and stick with it for your entire vehicle.
Which PPF yellows less?
Both have improved dramatically in recent years. Neither brand should show noticeable yellowing within the warranty period. SunTek tends to hold its clarity slightly better in our experience, but the difference is minimal.
Does PPF brand affect insurance claims?
No. Insurance companies don't distinguish between SunTek and XPEL. Both are considered premium PPF and valued similarly for replacement claims.
How long does PPF installation take?
The process is identical regardless of brand:
- Partial front: 1 day
- Full front: 1-2 days
- Full vehicle: 3-5 days
What's the difference between SunTek Ultra and SunTek Reaction?
Ultra is SunTek's top-tier film. Reaction is their newer release with slightly improved self-healing and stain resistance. Both are excellent—Ultra is more established, Reaction is the latest technology.
Get SunTek or XPEL Installed in Gilroy
We primarily install SunTek Ultra as our go-to PPF, plus 3M Pro Series and LLumar. The XPEL information above is provided for comparison so you can make an informed decision. We do not install XPEL—if you specifically want XPEL, we recommend finding a certified XPEL installer in your area.
| Film | Partial Front | Full Front |
| ---------------------- | ------------- | ------------- |
| SunTek Ultra | $1,200–$1,800 | $1,800–$2,800 |
| XPEL Ultimate Plus | $1,400–$2,000 | $2,000–$3,200 |
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Conclusion: SunTek or XPEL?
Both SunTek Ultra and XPEL Ultimate Plus are excellent choices that will protect your paint for a decade or more. The decision comes down to priorities:
Choose SunTek Ultra if: Value is important, you're keeping the vehicle long-term, or you want matte finish options.
Choose XPEL Ultimate Plus if: Transferable warranty matters, you have an exotic/high-value vehicle, or brand recognition is important for resale.
At Blackout Window Tinting, we install SunTek Ultra, 3M Pro Series, and LLumar PPF for exceptional value and proven performance. We don't install XPEL, but we provide this comparison so you can make an informed choice. View our paint protection film details or schedule a consultation and we'll help you find the right PPF for your vehicle.
Sources & Manufacturer References
{/* VERIFIED: All specs from manufacturer websites and technical data, January 2025 */}
Official Product Information:
- SunTek Ultra PPF — Official SunTek product page
- SunTek Film Comparison — SunTek lineup comparison
- XPEL Ultimate Plus — XPEL flagship PPF specs
- XPEL Stealth — XPEL matte finish PPF
Key Verified Specifications:
| Product | Thickness | Warranty | Self-Healing | Source |
|---------|-----------|----------|--------------|--------|
| SunTek Ultra | 8 mil | 10 years | Yes (heat-activated) | SunTek official |
| XPEL Ultimate Plus | 8 mil | 10 years (transferable) | Yes (heat-activated) | XPEL official |
Pricing Note: Prices shown are Bay Area market rates as of January 2025 and vary by vehicle size and coverage level.
Last Verified: January 16, 2025
Featured Brands
Learn more about the professional-grade products we use:
- LLumar - View product details and specifications
- XPEL - View product details and specifications
- SunTek PPF - View product details and specifications
- STEK PPF - View product details and specifications
- ClearPlex - View product details and specifications
