There is a good chance that you know the negative impacts UV rays can have on your health, but did you also know that they can cause great damage to your car?
Yes, it’s that bad! Ever considered getting window tints? Here come two superb options that will not just block UV but also cool your car and enhance privacy; Llumar IRX lasts five years, while 3M Crystalline can last up to ten years.
Llumar IRX mainly protects against UV, whereas 3M improves the glare of your vehicle.
Are you intrigued by what’s ahead? Then keep reading to find out more!
A Quick Comparison Table
| Description | LlumarIRX | 3M Crystalline |
| Durability | Five years | Ten years |
| Strong point | UV protection | Glare reduction |
| Type of Material | Polyester | Pressure-sensitive acrylic |
| Technology Implemented | IR-rejection | Multi-layered optical film |
| Number of layers | Six | 200 |
| Installation | Slightly complex | Easier |
| Colour | Charcoal | Brown |
| Customization | Highly customizable | Fewer customization options |
| Price Range | $63-$79 | $500-$560 |
Key Differences Between Llumar IRX And 3M Crystalline
- Durability
The main significant difference between the two films is their durability.
Are you looking for a long-lasting tint?
Well, consider your day made! Llumar IRX can give your car a splendid service for up to five years.
On the other hand, 3M Crystalline can last up to ten years with no sign of color fading.
One significant maintenance technique to increase longevity is to wash the film regularly and avoid using abrasive chemicals.
Also Read: Differences Between Llumar And Solar Gard Window Tint.
- Strong Point
For window tints to work effectively, you must carry out the installation part appropriately. Get a professional to do it other than doing it yourself. Llumar IRX virtually eliminates UV rays by 99% or more.
On the contrary, 3M’s main strength lies in reducing glare. The film allows you to see more clearly and improve your concentration while on the road by eliminating glare caused by the sun by 77%.
- Type of Material
Llumar IRX is made of polymer, which consists of an ultra-thin layer combined with a solid adhesive that increases the lifespan and ensures high resistance to scratches, stains, and cracks.
Contrarily, 3M Crystalline is made of pressure-sensitive acrylic that increases the lifespan by ensuring the film remains as good as new and provides outstanding chemical and UV resistance.
- Technology Implemented
Llumar IRX features IR-rejection technology that increases the heat-blocking performance and majorly targets infrared rays that tend to impact your vehicle negatively.
IR technology provides supreme solar control while ensuring a visible light provision.
Inversely, 3M uses multi-layered optical film technology to enable maximum UV protection and temperature regulation, thus giving you a fabulous driving experience.
- Number of Layers
Llumar contains six layers that feature an innovative nano-ceramic design to prevent UV rays, hence transforming your car inside out.
Drive in style with utmost comfort, all thanks to the reduced glare and the discreet privacy offered, thanks to the layers put in place.
On the other hand, 3M has 200 layers that prevent heat and light from passing through the vehicle. Despite the many layers, the film is still as thin as paper.
The top layer is fluorescent; hence it glows in the sun, which lowers the contrast through the glass.
- Installation
Setting up Llumar IRX on a car comprises steps to follow if you want the best results.
Also, it would be best to get an expert, as the process can be too complex for a newbie.
First, you need to wash the windows in and out.
Take measurements of the glass, remove the original film, spray with water, and put the tint on the glass from the inside.
Contradictorily, the installation process in 3M Crystalline is much simpler and quicker. However, it’s advised that you seek the help of a trained professional for it to be a success.
- Color
Are you specific on the type of color you want for your film? The colors in Llumar IRX are more charcoal-like, which means they are darker.
On the contrary, 3M Crystalline has brownish shades that you can use, which are lighter. That said, which one would you prefer?
- Customization
After-sales customization choices are the most cost-friendly ways to customize your car and make it seem new.
With Llumar IRX, there are a variety of shades, from matte to high gloss, available that you can choose and switch whenever you wish. If you are bored with the current appearance, you can change it to a shade of your liking.
Conversely, 3M is a little behind in customization options and might not be the perfect pick if you’d like to give your car a fresh look frequently.
- Price Range
The cost factor changes the game entirely. First, you must consider how much money you are willing to spend. Llumar IRX costs between $63 and $79.
On the flip side, 3M Crystalline prices range between $500 and $560. That’s quite a difference! If you are under budget, Llumar is the way to go. But if you are not worried about the cost and want an excellently durable tint, 3M is the answer.
Which Tint Is Best For Your Vehicle?
Llumar IRX and 3M Crystalline are exceptional tints, which makes the decision all the more difficult. You need a film that protects your car from harmful sunlight, provides a cooling effect and safety, and not to mention, fulfills the aesthetic aspect.
Llumar IRX offers optimal protection from destructive light, creating a safe environment. In addition, it is wallet-friendly.
Even without a budget, you can manage to get it. In contrast, 3M Crystalline is simple and quick to set up. This film is great if you need the job done in less time and get back on the road.
Moreover, it can last up to ten years before you have to do a replacement.
Also Read: Differences Between Xpel PPF And Llumar PPF.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Regarding the provision of a perfect glare, 3M does a great job. However, Llumar is better at blocking UV rays by 99%, which is significantly more than 3M.
Llumar IRX is the best choice for any luxury car owner as it provides excellent UV protection and ensures the inside of your car remains cool even under the hottest conditions.
3M Crystalline tint is worth every dime as it helps protect your car from UV and blocks more infrared light than other brands. In addition, it offers a lifetime warranty.
Llumar IRX, an upgrade of CTX, is much better because it improves IR energy rejection by 25% and increases the selective rejection by 27%.
Final Verdict
By now, you know a thing or two concerning the Llumar IRX and 3M Crystalline analogy. As you can tell from the exceptional features of the window tints, it’s not easy to pick one.
But a choice must be made since you can’t use them both at once.
Between affordability and durability, which factor is the most essential to you? If your car needs a film urgently and you want the cheapest version available, Llumar IRX is the one.
Also, if you are big on customization, stick with the same option. Nevertheless, if longevity is unnegotiable and you are taken away by easy installation, 3M Crystalline is the winner.
Get your vehicle a window tint today!
