Comparing GFC Topper with RSI smartcap

After looking at ARE and LEER, and figuring out that with the basic options I need the fiberglass tops would be pushing 4000$ + I figured out RSI and GFC Topper are the realistic options.

Pro's and cons?

From what I could gather

RSI:
Pros:

• Positive pressure vent
• More standard options as well as wider range of optional equipment
• Brake light window looks into cap, aiding in night lighting

Cons:

• Made in SA, so lead times are not reliable, and they have a TX factory, but don't know if 2022+ Tundra cap will be made there
• Parts availability
• Cannot open from inside
• Latch freezing problem
• Non existent customer service, nobody replies to emails

GFC Topper
Pros:

• Stronger
• Dust can get inside from the tailgate, though positive pressure vent can be installed
• Better hinges and latches, engineer for strength
• Made in USA, and very user serviceable
• When V1 had a bug, the company actually made the owners whole. So excellent customer service. They quickly reply to your questions and are very responsive
• reliable lead time (currently 2.5 months out)

Cons:

• Costs about 500-800$ when similary spec'd with windows
• Optional equipment rarer
• Sits higher than the RSI, so adding a tent etc,. would hit your roof clearance by another extra inch

What are your thoughts on the Pros and cons. Which one would you go for?

 

The old man is on his second GFC and loves it. He was one of the first with the V1 on a tundra and now on the V2 topper. Great quality and company.

 

I had an ARE, a v2 GFC, and the RSI Smartcap Evo on my old truck. I think all your pros and cons are right on the mark.

The RSI was probably my favorite because the construction is super solid. The side doors open smoothly. Assembly was relatively straightforward. I live in Colorado, so the frozen latches were definitely a problem. I started carrying a small propane torch in case it got stuck in the winter. The paneling on the cab "felt" thicker and stronger than the GFC, but I actually ended up getting a few internal dents from a compressor moving around in the back and hitting the side panels.

The GFC was great, too. The outside panels feel a bit wobblier when you open them than the RSI, but overall it's a stronger product because of the frame construction. The latches on the GFC never froze, but they don't feel nearly as sturdy as the RSI...the GFC locks stuck quite a bit.

I had the GFC first. The only reason I sold it was because I had the full rooftop tent version on a Tacoma...it took 10 mph off the top end. The truck simply couldn't handle the wind. I got the smartcap later because I loved the side doors on the GFC and wanted similar functionality.

 

Just checked their website. The 3rd gen 5.5 bed is available now.