Window film
Window tint shades: what VLT tells you—and what it doesn’t
Understand visible light transmission, compare WOT window tint shades, and prepare the right questions for your installer.
Read the shade number first
VLT stands for visible light transmission. It describes how much visible light passes through a material or glazing system. When comparing film shades, a lower percentage generally appears darker.
Use the tint visualizer to compare the look, then review real samples with your installer. Screen brightness, vehicle glass, interior color and surrounding light all affect what you see. A digital preview cannot reproduce every real-world condition.
Film shade and installed glass are different
The film is applied to glass that already has its own light transmission. The finished window is the combination, not simply the number printed on the film roll. Ask your installer to assess the existing glass and measure the finished result where appropriate.
Tint requirements vary by location and window position. Have your installer check the current rules that apply to your vehicle before choosing a shade. A shade shown in our visualizer is not a legal recommendation.
Compare more than darkness
Visible light transmission and heat-performance measurements describe different things. Do not treat a dark appearance as proof that one film will provide better heat performance than another.
When comparing products, ask for published specifications for the exact shade and comparable test methods. WOT’s lineup includes Rev carbon-ceramic window film, Shield ceramic window film and Velocity premium ceramic window film. Review the available shades and product details before narrowing the selection.
Bring a short brief to your installer
Explain the appearance you prefer, the windows you want treated and how you use the vehicle, including driving at night. Ask the installer to balance those preferences with visibility, the existing glass and applicable requirements.
Keep the selected film series and shade with your installation records, and follow the installer’s instructions for cleaning and when to operate the windows.