When it comes to upgrading your vehicle’s off-road capabilities, lift kits are an essential consideration. But, with many manufacturers offering diverse product ranges, selecting the best kit can be quite the challenge.
Today, we’ll analyze two of the most popular options – Rough Country and Zone Lift Kits.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Rough Country | Zone |
| Price | Affordable, budget-friendly | Higher-priced |
| Product Range | Extensive, covers many vehicle models | Limited, specific to certain vehicle models |
| Durability | Satisfactory, may wear out sooner | Excellent, designed for long-term performance |
| Ride Comfort | Satisfactory, may lead to a harsher ride | Excellent, maintains a smooth ride |
| Installation | Designed for easy DIY installation | May require more effort/time or professional installation |
An Overview of Rough Country Lift Kits
Rough Country has been in the industry for decades, pioneering innovation in off-road equipment. The brand is renowned for its well-rounded and affordable lift kits.
Pros of Rough Country Lift Kits
- Value for Money: The most prominent benefit of Rough Country lift kits is their affordability. If you’re on a budget and want a quality lift kit, Rough Country offers competitive pricing without compromising on performance.
- Ease of Installation: Rough Country designs its lift kits for easy installation. This attribute is particularly beneficial for DIY enthusiasts or those seeking to minimize installation costs.
- Versatility: Rough Country provides a wide array of lift kits tailored to various vehicle models. Whether you own a Jeep Wrangler or a Chevrolet Silverado, you can find a kit compatible with your vehicle.
Cons of Rough Country Lift Kits
- Ride Quality: Some users report a harsher ride after installing Rough Country lift kits. If ride comfort is a priority for you, this may be a point to consider.
- Longevity: Although the initial cost is low, Rough Country kits might require frequent replacements due to wear and tear.
Zone Lift Kits: A Detailed Look
Zone Offroad Products, often simply referred to as Zone, has gained a strong reputation for producing robust lift kits suitable for extreme off-roading adventures.
Pros of Zone Lift Kits
- Durability: Zone Lift kits are celebrated for their durability. They are designed to withstand rigorous off-road conditions, offering extended longevity.
- Ride Comfort: Zone prioritizes not only lift but also the maintenance of a comfortable ride. Most Zone users report improved ride quality post-installation.
- Support: Zone offers exceptional customer support, often a decisive factor when dealing with technical issues or installation queries.
Cons of Zone Lift Kits
- Price: Zone lift kits are pricier than Rough Country. If you’re shopping on a tight budget, you might find Zone’s prices steep.
- Limited Range: Unlike Rough Country, Zone doesn’t offer a lift kit for every vehicle model. Thus, availability can sometimes be an issue.
Key Differences Between Rough Country and Zone Lift Kits
When comparing Rough Country and Zone lift kits, several key differences emerge. These variations span across a range of factors, from price and product range to durability and ride comfort.
By delving into these differences, you can make a more informed choice based on your specific requirements and preferences.
- Cost and Affordability
The most noticeable difference between the two brands lies in the pricing. Rough Country offers significantly more affordable options compared to Zone.
They achieve this by focusing on essential features, thus delivering lift kits that perform well but are accessible even to those on a budget. In contrast, Zone lift kits come at a higher price point, but this is justified by their enhanced durability, improved ride comfort, and superior build quality.
- Range of Products
Rough Country boasts a wider product range compared to Zone. They offer lift kits for almost all popular vehicle models. This expansive range ensures that no matter your vehicle make or model, you’re likely to find a Rough Country lift kit that fits.
On the other hand, Zone has a more narrow focus. Their lift kits are designed for specific models, which, while limiting their range, allows them to specialize and tailor their kits more closely to individual vehicle needs.
- Durability and Build Quality
Zone lift kits excel in the durability department. Built from high-quality materials, these kits are designed to withstand intense off-road conditions and offer long-term performance. This video will help you understand better.
This durability is one of the reasons why Zone lift kits come with a higher price tag. On the other hand, while Rough Country lift kits offer good initial performance, they may wear out sooner due to the lower-cost materials used in their manufacture.
This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re poor quality; rather, it reflects the different brand priorities between long-term durability and upfront affordability.
- Ride Comfort
One crucial factor when selecting a lift kit is the impact it will have on ride comfort. Rough Country lift kits, while providing a satisfactory lift, can lead to a harsher ride post-installation. The trade-off for their affordable pricing is often felt in the ride quality.
On the flip side, Zone puts considerable effort into ensuring their lift kits maintain a smooth and comfortable ride. This focus on ride comfort, along with durability, contributes to their higher pricing.
- Installation Ease
Rough Country lift kits are designed for straightforward installation. This ease of fitting is a significant benefit for those who enjoy do-it-yourself projects or those wanting to save on professional installation costs.
On the other hand, while Zone lift kits are not particularly difficult to install, they may require a bit more effort and time, making professional installation a more popular choice.
Both Rough Country and Zone provide quality lift kits. The decision will likely come down to your budget, your vehicle model, and personal preferences.
Rough Country’s affordability and ease of installation make it an excellent choice for those on a budget. Meanwhile, if you prioritize ride comfort and durability, Zone’s lift kits might be worth the extra investment.
Also Read: Comparison of Motofab And Rough Country Leveling Kits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
BDS and Zone are both produced by the same parent company, but BDS is marketed as a premium brand while Zone targets the mid-range market. BDS lift kits often have more features, resulting in improved off-road performance but at a higher cost.
Zone lift kits are produced by Sport Truck USA, a division of FOX Factory. The company manufactures a range of off-road parts and accessories, including BDS Suspension, Zone Offroad, JKS Manufacturing, and RT Pro.
The best suspension lift depends on various factors such as your vehicle model, intended usage, and budget. Both Rough Country and Zone lift kits have their strengths and weaknesses, which we have discussed in this article.
Yes, the Rough Country 3.5 lift kit is designed to level the truck by lifting the front more than the rear. This balances the truck’s stance, improving both aesthetics and off-road performance.
Finall Thoughts
In conclusion, when selecting between Rough Country and Zone lift kits, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs. Consider the initial cost, your desired ride quality, and the long-term durability when making your decision.
