Best Truck Beds & Tailgates of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Truck beds and tailgates are essential components of any pickup truck. The truck bed is the open cargo area at the back of the truck, while the tailgate is the movable gate that covers the bed. These parts come in various sizes and materials to suit different needs and preferences. Steel and aluminum are popular materials for truck beds and tailgates due to their durability and strength. Other options include composite materials and even wood. Some truck beds also come with built-in features like toolboxes, cargo tie-downs, and bed liners. Tailgates can be simple or feature advanced functions like power release, drop-down steps, and backup cameras. Overall, truck beds and tailgates are crucial for hauling cargo and provide added functionality to any pickup truck.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dorman 926-578 Tailgate Molding Assembly Cover #TOP 1
Dorman 926-578 Tailgate Molding Assembly
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ECOTRIC Tailgate Protector for Ford Super Duty Cover #TOP 2
ECOTRIC Tailgate Protector for Ford Super Duty
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad with Tool Pockets Cover #TOP 3
Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad with Tool Pockets
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Truck Beds & Tailgates

#TOP 1

Dorman 926-578 Tailgate Molding Assembly

926-578
Black
Dorman 926-578 Tailgate Molding Assembly Cover
Dorman 926-578 Tailgate Molding Assembly Compatible with Select Dodge / Ram Models, Black

The Dorman Tailgate Molding is a perfect replacement part designed to fit your Dodge or Ram truck just like the original. It helps restore your tailgate’s appearance and function, especially if the original molding is missing, cracked, or faded. Made from durable materials, this molding offers long-lasting performance, so you won’t need frequent replacements. Plus, it’s backed by a team of experts with over a century of automotive experience, ensuring you get a reliable and high-quality product. This makes it easy for you to maintain your vehicle’s look and function without any hassle.

What We Like
Perfect OEM fit
Easy installation
Good quality material
Affordable price
Looks like original part
What We Don't Like
Plastic push pins not included
#TOP 2

ECOTRIC Tailgate Protector for Ford Super Duty

VC-LYAP-228
Black
Small
ECOTRIC Tailgate Protector for Ford Super Duty Cover
ECOTRIC Tailgate Top Cap Protector Molding Trim Cover Compatible with 2008-2016 Ford F250 F350 F450 Super Duty Replace for BC3Z-9940602-B FO1904104

The ECOTRIC Tailgate Protector is specifically designed for 2008-2016 Ford F250, F350, and F450 Super Duty models. It is made from high-quality, lightweight ABS plastic with a textured black finish, giving your truck a sleek look while providing protection. This protector is a direct replacement for the original part, ensuring a perfect fit. Its durable construction meets high-quality standards, so you can trust that it will withstand the elements. Installation is straightforward, allowing you to secure it easily without worrying about it coming off. This product is a great way to enhance both the style and durability of your tailgate.

What We Like
Perfect OEM-like fit
Easy installation
Great price
Good appearance
Strong adhesion
What We Don't Like
May require extra screws
Plastic could be sturdier
#TOP 3

Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad with Tool Pockets

TPUS-TailgatePad-FH
Small for 5 bikes
Small
Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad with Tool Pockets Cover
Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bike, Tailgate Protection Pad with Tool Pockets, Fits Most Truck Carries Up to 5 Bikes

Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is designed to protect your pickup truck and tailgate while transporting your bikes. The pad is made of premium quality materials, including sturdy 600D PVC and soft flannelette to protect both your bikes and truck. The tailgate pad also features thoughtful designs such as 2 tool pockets, a large rear open window, and a tailgate handle access flap. It comes in two sizes, small and large, and is easy to install with high-quality web cinch straps.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good material quality
Fits various truck models
Holds multiple bikes securely
Lightweight and compact storage
What We Don't Like
Minor strap durability concerns
Few tie-down straps
#TOP 4

ECOTRIC Rear Tailgate Steel Compatible with 1987-1996 Ford F150 F250 F350 Truck

VC-LYAM-358
black
ECOTRIC Rear Tailgate Steel Compatible with 1987-1996 Ford F150 F250 F350 Truck Cover
ECOTRIC Complete Primed Rear Tailgate Tail Gate Steel Compatible with 1987-1996 Ford F150 F250 F350 Truck Pick up Bed Replacement for Part Number E7TZ9940700A F2TZ9940700A FO1900104

This high-quality tailgate is made of strong, impact-resistant steel with a primed surface finish, ensuring long-lasting use. It is a direct replacement for Part Number FO1900114 and is compatible with 1987-1996 Full-Size Pickup trucks (excluding Stepside Style models) and 1996-1997 HD models. The package includes 1 x Primed Steel Complete Rear Tailgate only (hardware not included). Professional installation is highly recommended, and instructions are not included. Contact the seller for assistance with any problems.

What We Like
Easy installation
Matches factory hardware
Paintable finish
Solid packaging
Good price
What We Don't Like
Minor dents or dings
Lighter than OEM
#TOP 5

Dorman 924-571 Tailgate Molding for Ford/Lincoln

924-571
Black
Dorman 924-571 Tailgate Molding for Ford/Lincoln Cover
Dorman 924-571 Tailgate Molding Compatible with Select Ford/Lincoln Models, Black

The Dorman Tailgate Molding is a perfect choice if you're looking to restore your vehicle's appearance and function. It fits exactly like the original, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues. This part helps fix tailgates that are missing, faded, cracked, or damaged, making your truck look and work like new again. Made from durable materials, it’s built to last and withstand everyday wear. Plus, you can trust the quality since it’s backed by experienced product experts in the U.S. This makes it a reliable and convenient replacement for your Ford or Lincoln truck.

What We Like
Factory-like fit and finish
Easy installation process
Compatible with 2005-2008 F-150
High quality material
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Slightly short on ends
Minor adjustment needed with bed liners
#TOP 6

DZ43204 Tailgate Assist

DZ 43204
Multicolor
DZ43204 Tailgate Assist Cover
Dee Zee DZ43204 Tailgate Assist fits 2015-Current Ford F150, Multicolor

The DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist is a heavy-duty tailgate assist designed to fit 2015-current Ford F150 trucks. The nutsert comes with thread lock on it, making installation a breeze. With this product, you can release the tailgate with one hand and have a smooth, controlled drop, which allows your children to safely lower the tailgate. By adding this tailgate assist to your truck, you can ease the strain on the cables and hinge point and prevent the loud bang when the tailgate slams down. Installation is easy, with no drilling required, and the parts are specific to the year, make, and model of your truck. The DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist has been tested for durability and will assist you for years to come.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Prevents tailgate slamming
Neat and tucked-away design
Durable and long-lasting
Quiet and smooth operation
What We Don't Like
Protective film may not last
Old shocks lose effectiveness over years
#TOP 7

DEE ZEE DZ43301 Truck Tailgate Assist

DZ43301
DEE ZEE DZ43301 Truck Tailgate Assist Cover
DEE ZEE DZ43301 Truck Tailgate Assist

The Dee Zee DZ43301 Truck Tailgate Assist is a heavy-duty device that eases the strain on cables and hinge point by not allowing the tailgate to free fall. It allows you to release the tailgate with one hand for controlled drop rate, avoiding the loud bang. The parts are specific to the year, make, and model of your truck, and no drilling is required. The nutsert comes with thread lock on it and is ready to be installed, making it easy to install in fewer steps.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Helpful YouTube videos
Smooth, controlled tailgate motion
Protects truck tailgate
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Low quality included tools
Minor installation challenges
#TOP 8

DEE ZEE DZ43200 Tailgate Assist

DZ 43200
DEE ZEE DZ43200 Tailgate Assist Cover
DZ43200 Tailgate Assist fits 04-14 Ford F150 & Lincoln Mark LT

The DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist is designed for 2004-2014 Ford F150 and Lincoln Mark LT models, excluding Flareside variants. This improved product eliminates the hassle of using a separate thread lock, as it comes pre-applied on the nutsert, making installation simpler and cleaner. With this assist, you can easily lower your tailgate with one hand, avoiding the loud bang that typically accompanies it. This smooth drop is especially beneficial for families, allowing children to operate the tailgate safely. Additionally, it reduces strain on your truck's tailgate cables and hinge, prolonging their lifespan.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Smooth, controlled tailgate operation
No drilling required
Durable construction
Improves safety and convenience
What We Don't Like
Minor alignment challenge
Tool fitment issue for some
#TOP 9

APPERFiT Tailgate Hardware Rebuild Kit for 1999-2007 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra

DH033ST
APPERFiT Tailgate Hardware Rebuild Kit for 1999-2007 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Cover
Tailgate Hardware Rebuild Kit for Truck Bed Door Compatible with 1999-2007 Chevrolet Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra Tailgate Parts Tail Gate Handle Latch Hinge Cable Striker Bolt Set

The APPERFiT Tailgate Rebuild Kit is designed to replace worn-out tailgate parts on your 1999-2007 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra. It includes all essential components like the handle, bezel, clips, locks, cables, hinges, and bolts, so you get everything needed in one set. Made from durable materials, this kit ensures your tailgate stays functional and looks good even under tough daily use. Plus, it matches the exact size and specifications of the original parts, making installation straightforward and hassle-free for you. This kit helps restore your truck’s tailgate reliability and appearance with ease.

What We Like
Solid construction
Easy installation
Complete hardware kit
Smoother tailgate operation
Excellent value
What We Don't Like
Lack of instruction sheet
Extra hands needed for install
#TOP 10

Marscamd Thick Tailgate Bike Pad

MD00801
Black
Marscamd Thick Tailgate Bike Pad Cover
Marscamd Thick Tailgate Bike Pad – Best Match for Mid & Compact Pickups (51"–56" Tailgate Width), Holds 5 Bikes, Tailgate Cover with Storage Pocket – Black

The Marscamd Tailgate Bike Pad is designed to protect both your bikes and your truck’s tailgate. Made from durable 600D PVC fabric, it resists wear and repels water, keeping your gear safe in different weather conditions. The soft underside and thick padding provide extra cushioning, preventing scratches and damage during transport. This pad can hold up to five bikes securely with its long hook and loop straps, fitting most bike sizes. For your convenience, it features a roll-up flap so you can still access your backup camera and an interior pocket to store small accessories, while the reflective strip enhances safety at night.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good bike protection
Secure bike transport
Reasonable price
Camera flap functionality
What We Don't Like
Slightly long fit
Lacks front tire Velcro
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our truck beds & tailgate research, we found 24 truck beds & tailgate products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 176,568 customer reviews through our big data system to write the truck beds & tailgates list. We found that most customers choose truck beds & tailgates with an average price of $39.44.

The truck beds & tailgates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of truck beds & tailgates, including Dorman, ECOTRIC, Himal Outdoors, DEE ZEE, APPERFiT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Truck Beds & Tailgates Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Dorman ECOTRIC Himal Outdoors ECOTRIC Dorman DEE ZEE DEE ZEE DEE ZEE APPERFiT Marscamd
Color Black Black Small for 5 bikes black - Multicolor - Red Tailgate Hardware Set Black
Material Plastic Plastic Plastic Alloy Steel - Alloy Steel - Metal Metal, Plastic Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Exterior Finish Ready To Paint If Needed Textured - Alloy Steel - - Painted - Stainless Steel -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy