It is always difficult to come to a decision on whether to get a hard top or a soft top for your vehicle. The best way to decide is to know all the facts and make an informed decision. Both Hard Top and Soft Top have major similarities like they are both 100% Waterproof and will protect you from the elements. They both do the job well however they have some crucial differences.
Following are key differences between a Hard Top and a Soft Top.
MATERIALS
Hard Top:
Metal
FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic)
Soft Top:
Canvas (ranging from high poly cotton blend to 100% cotton)
Nylon Cloth, etc.
SET UP
Hard Top:
Time Consuming Setup
Fabrication and Installation in Workshop
May require Cutting and Welding on vehicle
Installation Time Required: 7 -15 days
Soft Top:
Easy and Quick
Can be set up without any professional help
Does not require any cutting or welding
Installation time required: less than 30 minutes
LOOK
Hard Top:
Changed Look
SUV Style Look
Soft Top:
Original Look
Jeep Style Look
VERSATILITY
Hard Top:
Permanent Modification to your Vehicle
Opportunity of Versatility is extremely limited
Switching back from a Hard Top is very difficult
Soft Top:
Multiple Looks can be achieved for your Vehicle
Raining, go with a full soft top
Bright and Sunny, go with a Bikini or a Cabin hood
Change your Soft Top based on your Mood and Activity Plans
CABIN NOISE
Hard Top:
Better performance
Minimal Outside Sound
Due to Metal body and Insulation
Soft Top:
Weaker Performance compared to a Hard Top
Due to Soft Top being made with Cloth
SECURITY
Hard Top:
Higher Level of Security
Almost similar to any other vehicle
Soft Top:
Basic Level of Security
Slightly lower as the Soft Top is made with Cloth
WEIGHT
Hard Top:
Adds Significant Weight to the Vehicle
Soft Top:
Does not add much Weight to the Vehicle
STORAGE
Hard Top:
If removed off the body, Large Storage Space is Required
The Storage Space Needs to be Dry and Well-Maintained
May require a Garage/Store Room
Soft Top:
Can be easily Folded Down
Small Storage Space needed
Can easily fit in a wardrobe or closet
COST
Hard Top:
A Big Investment
Starting from INR 70 k and go upwards of INR 1.5 lacs
Soft Top:
Not a Major Investment
Starting from as Low as INR 8k for the Bikini Soft Top and INR 17.5k for a Full Soft Top
There is no single best option. The right top depends on your individual needs and requirements. Weighing the pros and cons of each, it is best to decide what is the right fit for your vehicle. This is not an all encompassing list and we would like to know what other factors do you look at when deciding a Hard top vs. a Soft top.