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Is 35% or 20% Tint Darker? – The Ultimate Guide for Toronto Drivers

  • Writer: Arsham V
    Arsham V
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read

When it comes to car window tinting, one of the most common questions we hear at Tint by Designs – Window Tinting is: "Is 35% or 20% tint darker?"

The short answer: 20% tint is darker than 35% tint. But there’s more to it than just “darker or lighter.” The right choice depends on style, privacy, heat control, and Ontario tint laws.


What Do Tint Percentages Mean?

The percentage on window film refers to Visible Light Transmission (VLT) — the amount of visible light allowed to pass through the glass:

  • 35% Tint: Lets 35% of visible light in, blocking 65%.

  • 20% Tint: Lets 20% of visible light in, blocking 80%.

Lower VLT = darker tint.


35% Tint – The Balanced Choice

  • Appearance: Slightly tinted look, stylish but not overly dark.

  • Visibility: Good visibility at night; easy to drive in low-light conditions.

  • Privacy: Moderate — people can still see inside during the day, but with reduced clarity.

  • Best For: Drivers who want legal, subtle style and balanced performance.


20% Tint – The Privacy King

  • Appearance: Noticeably darker, sleek, and more aggressive look.

  • Visibility: Reduced night visibility — requires extra caution when driving in poorly lit areas.

  • Privacy: Excellent — hard to see inside during the day.

  • Best For: Maximum privacy, cooler interiors, and bolder aesthetics.


Ontario Tint Laws & Safety Considerations

In Ontario, front side windows must allow more than 70% VLT (which means 35% and 20% tints are typically used for rear and back windows only). At Tint by Designs, we ensure your tint setup complies with Ontario’s 2025 legal limits while still achieving your desired look.


Which Tint Should You Choose?

If you want:

  • Style + Balance: Go for 35%.

  • Privacy + Cool Factor: Go for 20%.

💡 Many Toronto drivers choose 35% for front side windows and 20% for rear windows for a stylish, legal, and functional combination.


Book Your Tinting Appointment Today

Ready to upgrade your ride with 35% or 20% tint?

📞 Call or Text: 437-331-5379

📍 Serving Toronto, North York, Vaughan & the GTA


Side-by-side comparison graphic of 35% vs 20% car window tint. On the left, a white sedan with lighter 35% tint labeled “Slightly tinted look, Good visibility, Moderate privacy, Legal for front side windows.” On the right, a black sedan with darker 20% tint labeled “Noticeably darker, Reduced night visibility, Excellent privacy, Typically for rear windows.” Bottom text reads “Call 437-331-5379.

 
 
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