When it comes to windshield water repellents, Rain-X has been a trusted name for decades. However, recent comparison tests conducted by the Project Farm YouTube channel have revealed that while Rain-X remains competitive, it is no longer the best hydrophobic product on the market. In a lineup of 10 different brands, only four—Gtechniq, Aquapel, Gyeon, and Rain-X—stood the test of car wash soap and windshield washer fluid, maintaining their hydrophobic properties. The other six brands failed to retain their effectiveness after exposure to these common substances.
Testing and Results
Project Farm conducted various tests to evaluate the performance of different windshield water repellents. Of the four top brands, Aquapel and Gyeon demonstrated the quickest water removal from the glass when subjected to a blow dryer, taking just 1 second—emulating wind forces at 40 mph. Rain-X and Gtechniq both took 3 seconds in this test.
Temperature Exposure Test
One area where Rain-X fell short was in the warm temperature exposure test, where the glass was subjected to hot water spray for 2.5 hours in a dishwasher. While the other three brands maintained their effectiveness, Rain-X showed a decrease in performance after this test.
Overall Assessment
Despite its shortcomings, Rain-X remains a viable option for drivers. It is affordable, easy to apply, and held up well in most of the tests conducted. However, if you are looking for the best product available, Gtechniq’s G5 water repellent coating received top marks from Project Farm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Rain-X is still a popular choice for windshield water repellent, there are other brands on the market that outperform it in terms of durability and effectiveness. Project Farm’s comparison tests highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of various products, helping consumers make informed decisions when choosing a windshield water repellent for their vehicle.