Choosing the Right Window Tint Percentage: 5%, 20%, 35% – What’s Best?

When it comes to window tinting, one of the most common questions we hear is: “What percentage tint should I get?”

Whether you're looking for privacy, heat reduction, or just a clean, sleek look, choosing the right tint percentage is key. In this post, we’ll break down the most popular options — 5%, 20%, and 35% — and help you decide which is best for your needs, style, and legal requirements.

🧐 What Does Tint Percentage Mean?

The “percentage” in window tinting refers to Visible Light Transmission (VLT) — the amount of light that passes through the tint.

• Lower VLT = Darker Tint

• Higher VLT = Lighter Tint

For example:

• 5% tint only lets in 5% of light — very dark.

• 35% tint lets in 35% of light — much lighter, more natural.

🔎 Quick Comparison

Tint %	Appearance	Privacy	Heat Rejection	Visibility	Common Use
5%	Very dark	Maximum	Excellent	Low at night	Limos, privacy seekers
20%	Dark	High	Very Good	Moderate	Most trucks/SUVs
35%	Medium	Moderate	Good	Clearer visibility	Legal on most sedans

🖤 5% Tint – The "Limo Look"

• Appearance: Very dark, sleek, and private

• Best For: Maximum privacy and sun blocking

• Downside: Harder to see through at night from inside

• Legality in WV: Not legal on front windows for most vehicles without a medical exemption

Who it’s for: People who value privacy over visibility — often used on rear windows of SUVs or limousines.

🔥 20% Tint – Bold & Balanced

• Appearance: Deep tint with noticeable privacy

• Best For: Striking the balance between style, heat control, and function

• Visibility: Still visible from inside but more shaded than 35%

• Common Factory Tint Match: Many trucks and SUVs come with ~20% from the factory on rear glass

Who it’s for: Drivers wanting a darker look while keeping decent visibility — very popular.

🌤️ 35% Tint – Clean & Legal

• Appearance: Subtle shading with a natural look

• Best For: Heat reduction with less impact on visibility

• Visibility: Excellent visibility, especially at night

• Legality in WV: Street legal on front windows of sedans, SUVs, and trucks

Who it’s for: Anyone wanting a functional, legal tint that still reduces glare and UV exposure.

🛑 What’s Legal in West Virginia?

• Sedans: 35% front sides, 35% rear sides, and rear

• SUVs/Trucks: 35% front sides, unlimited on rear windows

• Windshield: Tint not allowed except on the top 5 inches, unless medically exempt

➡️ Check local regulations or contact us if you're unsure — we’re happy to help.

👀 Still Not Sure What to Choose?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Go 5% if privacy and maximum heat rejection are top priorities and you’re tinting rear windows only.

• Choose 20% if you want a "medium darkness" film.

• Stick with 35% if you want something that’s sleek, functional, and legal for all windows.

🎯 Bonus Tip: Not All Tints Perform the Same

Ceramic tints, like Llumar IRX or CTX, offer higher heat rejection even in lighter shades like 35% or 50%. So if you're concerned about heat but don’t want it too dark, ceramic tint is a great solution.

✅ Schedule Your Tint with Confidence

At Shade9 Window Tinting, we help customers across West Virginia choose the perfect window film based on their goals, lifestyle, and local laws. We’re a Llumar SelectPro dealer and offer premium ceramic, dyed, and reflective films with precision computer-cut patterns for a perfect fit every time.

📍 Serving: Morgantown, Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Cheat Lake, and beyond

📞 Call now: 304-710-0380

🌐 www.shade9tint.com

Need help choosing your tint shade?👉 Contact us or stop by to see real-life examples and get personalized recommendations!