Best Wiper Blades Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Most people don’t think too much about their wiper blades until one of them gets damaged or missing under mysterious circumstances (wind’s fault almost every time). Only then we remember that these little things provided a clear view regardless of the weather conditions, keeping us safe through the pouring rain, ice, and snow! We all have to agree upon the notion that every car needs a pair of high-quality wiper blades. Keeping your windshield clean is crucial for having a good front view. Sometimes even the smallest streaks and residues on the glass can obstruct your view or distract your attention. Therefore, you don’t only need a quality and durable pair of wiper blades, but also the one that can clean your windshield efficiently and make the glass sparkle!
Featured Recommendations
- Bosch ICON 26A
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Our rating - Top-Notch
- Price: See Here
- Aero
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Our rating - Durable
- Price: See Here
- Anco 31-Series
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Our rating - Budget-Friendly
- Price: See Here
It’s not always easy to make the right decision and purchase a particular product, especially these days when the market is full of all kinds of wiper blades. With many different products comes doubt in our own judgment because we have to know everything about wiper blades to be able to pick the perfect one for our needs. Luckily for you, we got your back! We wanted to make this tiresome task easier by providing a list of the best options we could find out there. After thorough market research, we were able to pick 10 amazing products to meet a wide range of needs and requirements. Hopefully, our list will guide you through the purchase and help you decide on the perfect product. Here are our best picks:
10 Best Wiper Blades
Bosch ICON 26A
We really like the fact that Bosch comes with a dual rubber lining that makes it sturdy and incredibly durable! It proves to be up to 40% sturdier than the competition because of this rubber design. There are also dual steel springs built in the construction of this product, which means that Bosch made sure to apply equal pressure across the entire length of the wiper blade, securing it firmly to your windshield.
Most of the traditional and cheap wiper blades apply pressure on the ends or at the center of the wiper, which makes it more prone to damages and influences the entire cleaning process. All of these features used by Bosch add to the product’s quality and durability, significantly prolonging its lifespan and making it stand out from the competition.
Weather Proof
This is a bracketless wiper blade that is very useful during winter – it prevents snow and ice from building up on your windshield! Another great feature is a wind spoiler that reduces the clattering noise and keeps the wiper blade firmly on its place, protected from strong wind and other harsh weather conditions.
This design also allows for a custom fit to the windshield regardless of the vehicle type, just make sure to order a proper size for your particular vehicle. The installation is quite simple even if you’re changing the wind blades for the first time. The included straightforward instructions should help you in case you run into some issues.
Cost and Value
While we couldn’t find any flaw in the design of this wiper blade, we weren’t so satisfied with its price. We were quite surprised to find out that the box includes only one wiper, and that the price doubles with ordering a pair! Those who are on a limited budget will definitely have to search for another option. Don’t get us on the wrong way, Bosch Icon is our favorite, but we have to address that some people won’t be able to afford it.
Dual rubber lining for a longer lifespan
Firmly secured to the windshield
Sturdy and durable
Bracketless design for better performance during winter
Reduced noise and weatherproof
Easy to install
Expensive
Aero
Aero wiper blades are made from durable materials such as specially blended rubber for superior cleaning and streak-free finish. They are overall flexible enough to stick closely to the windshield yet sturdy enough to endure strong wind and other weather threats. Not to mention how quiet is this product compared to most of the other wiper blades, even when it swipes across dry glass. We have only seen Bosch Icon performing that well!
All-Seasons Product
This one is designed to withstand high and low temperatures (+158F to -40F) with great ease, which makes it suitable for all seasons. The bracketless design also helps, preventing snow and ice to build up on your windshield.
Overall, we are quite satisfied with these ones from Aero, but we really didn’t like the lack of installation instructions. There’s no manual in the box, so you’ll have to figure it out all by yourself. That being said, the installation is very simple once you get it right. It takes only a few minutes (or even seconds) to replace the old ones and you’re ready to go!
Cost and Value
Compared to the previously reviewed model, Aero offers a pair of wiper blades at a reasonable price. You’ll also get a 6 months warranty, which is quite unusual for wiper blades. All in all, we strongly recommend trying out this pair – it proves to be very durable and efficient, so you’ll be very satisfied with its overall performance for a long time!
Specially blended rubber for superior cleaning
Fits closely to the windshield
Sturdy enough to withstand weather threats
No noise
Suitable for all seasons especially for winter
Reasonably priced
There are no instructions for the installation
Anco 31-Series
With a specialized rubber compound which is called DuraKlear, this one guarantees streak-free cleaning and shiny windshield. This type of material also efficiently removes snow and ensures noiseless performance. The installation is quite simple and doesn’t take to much of your time - once you secure the wiper blades they stay firmly attached to the windshield even at harsh weather. You’ll hear a security click designed to notify you that everything is on its place, and that’s about it. This is quite useful because it allows an additional peace of mind and safe removing as well.
Durable
Anco 31-series is a quite durable product designed to withstand all kinds of threats and yet remain firmly on the windshield. It features special protection from environmental factors such as harmful sun rays, dirt, dust, and more However, we did find two issues with its design.
Firstly, the wiper blades are protected from several environmental factors and they are very durable, but they are not suitable for harsh weather. Constant exposure to rain and snow will drastically influence their durability. Secondly, Anco doesn’t fit all types of vehicles but only ones made after 2010. However, you should use a drop list to check whether it fits your vehicle or not, just in case.
Cost and Value
We were quite surprised when we found out that these Anco wiper blades come at an attractive price. They have their flaws, lagging behind Bosch and Aero, but they are probably the best budget-friendly option we could find on the market right now. Even if they don’t live through the winter you’ll still be very satisfied with their performance considering how easy they were on your pocketbook!
Specialized rubber compound for an incredibly clean windshield
Noiseless performance
Easy to install and remove
Sturdy and durable
Protection from various environmental threats
Inexpensive
Not suitable for harsh weather
Fit only vehicles made after 2010.
Bosch Aerotwin
Bosch features unique wiper blades with metal tensions spring to provide a close fit and superior performance. The dual rubber compound is also designed to give the best cleaning results without leaving any annoying streaks and residues.
Another useful protective feature is an aerodynamic all-steel frame that ensures a perfect fit and close attachment to the glass, applying equal pressure across the entire length of these wiper blades. All of these features provide perfect cleaning results during every ride as well as they make the Aerotwin incredibly durable!
Weather Proof
This pair comes with a weather shield connector system which guarantees that the wiper blades will stay on their place even at harsh weather conditions. Also, if you’re worried about the strong wind blowing off your new wipers, you’ll be pleased to know that Bosch offers a wind spoiler feature which keeps Aerotwin firmly attached to the glass. However, keep in mind that they are not enough protected from deterioration when continuously exposed to snow and ice!
Cost and Value
As we already said above, this pair comes at a reasonable price and we strongly recommend trying it out. If you’re a fan of Bosch products and you find the Icon model too expensive, you can easily go for Aerotwin and get an equally good pair of wiper blades!
Feature metal tension spring and dual rubber compound
Superior cleaning results and very durable
An aerodynamic all-steel frame
Protection from strong wind and other weather conditions
Perfect and stable fit
Well-priced
Not enough protection from snow and ice
Valeo 900161B
First and foremost, you should know that this model has a unique flat blade design. Unlike most of the competition, it features a single piece of rubber rather than two joined pieces. The one-piece design also prevents possible noise and vibration when swiping across the glass.
Additionally, high-quality rubber ensures great performance and amazing streak-free cleaning results. All you need to do is replace the old wiper blades with these new shiny ones, and you’re ready to go within a few short moments!
Heavy-Duty
Valeo wiper blades are specially designed to withstand all kinds of harsh conditions including snow and ice. Without metal superstructure that often allows for snow to build up on your windshield, they will provide super clean glass and clear view. Let’s not forget that flat design and integrated spoilers ensure the proper position of the wiper blades even at high speed and during strong wind.
Cost and Value
The only issue we have with this product is its high price. Don’t get us on the wrong side, these are not overpriced at all, but you might need to spend some extra cash to get them. Also, keep in mind that the box includes only one, so you’ll have to pay double to get a pair!
Flat blade design
A single piece of rubber for better performance
Excellent cleaning results and very durable
Easy to install
Suitable for all seasons
Expensive
Rain-X
Rain-X offers a specially designed rubber blade to ensure that your windshield stays sparkling clean all the time. What makes this one so special, you may ask? It’s a unique contoured construction that makes Rain-X stands out from the competition.
It follows the shape of every windshield and attaches firmly to the glass – the design allows for equal pressure along the entire wiper blade which guarantees flawless performance and stable position. This also prevents an annoying chattering sound and increases the durability of the entire product. All in all, it’s a flexible wiper blade that easily wipes off the glass and lasts for a long time!
All-Seasons Product
Without exposed metal parts Rain-X prevents snow and ice building up on your windshield, which makes it a great option for all seasons! It has a synthetic rubber squeegee that is designed to withstand all harsh weather conditions and provide undisturbed performance. Additionally, it’s available in many different sizes to suit almost every vehicle type and the installation is incredibly easy thanks to the included adapters. Therefore, you’ll be able to set it in a few minutes and enjoy the clear view!
Cost and Value
The only thing that we didn’t like at all is the high price tag that comes with the product. We can’t deny that it provides flawless performance and long-lasting features, but the box includes only one wiper blade! If you want to have a pair of Rain-X you’ll have to spend quite some cash to get it.
Unique contoured construction for more stability and better performance
Great cleaning results
Equal pressure through the entire blade for a perfect fit
Suitable for all seasons
Incredibly durable
Easy to install
Expensive
Valeo 60011
Valeo offers a perfect fit straight from the box thanks to the universal design suitable for all vehicle types, and you get to choose a perfect one from several available sizes. It’s made from galvanized steel which makes it super sturdy and durable.
This construction allows for close attachment to the windshield and consequently perfect cleaning results. The synthetic rubber part also helps, making the glass sparkling clean and preventing streaks and residues. All in all, it offers all the necessary features for flawless performance and improved view.
Durable
You'll be pleased to know that Valeo offers a wiper blade that can withstand a lot, from strong wind and snow to high temperatures and harmful sun rays. It’s suitable for all seasons so you’ll definitely find them useful regardless of the climate in your driving area.
The only issue seems to be an annoying sound that comes from the wiper blade when there’s not enough moisture on the glass, but it shouldn't bother you too much.
Cost and Value
When it comes to the price of this Valeo product, we run into the same issue as with the previously reviewed Rain-X model – you’ll have to pay some extra cash to get a pair of these wiper blades! All those who decide on this product won’t be disappointed, but those on a limited budget will have to search for another option.
Universal design for a perfect fit
Made from galvanized steel
Sturdy and durable
Perfect cleaning results
Feature a synthetic rubber part for improved performance
Suitable for all seasons
They could produce some annoying sounds
Expensive
PIAA 95055
Featuring a silicone rubber construction this wiper blade is resistant to many threats and offers flawless performance for many years. It efficiently cleans the windshield and maintains it residue-free during every ride. The aerodynamic frame ensures that the equal pressure is applied across the entire wiper blade for quiet working and streak-free cleaning results. All of these features contribute to the already highly durable product!
Water Repellent
What we liked the most about this product is a provided protection from rain, snow, and ice. These rubber blades feature a special formula that makes the glass protected from water and other liquids even when the wipers are not working!
The water-repellent coating proves to be very useful in many situations, but it also prolongs the life of Valeo wipers. Additionally, the installation takes only a few moments thanks to the provided hooks and adapters that allow for a perfect fit for every vehicle type.
Cost and Value
We have to admit that this wiper blade (only one in the pack) will cost you an arm and a leg. It’s well worth it, considering the overall performance and high-quality components, but many people opt for cheaper wiper blades.
Silicone rubber construction for improved protection
Excellent cleaning results
Aerodynamic frame for quiet working and streak-free finishes
Sturdy and durable
Water-repellant coating
Easy to install
Expensive
Michelin 8022 Stealth Hybrid
This one is made of rubber parts that will ensure superior cleaning and make your windshield sparkling clean without too much noise. Michelin uses a Smart Flex technology to ensure the proper and close fit to every windshield.
The wiper blade adapts to the form of the glass which makes it suitable for all vehicles. Nevertheless, it’s available in several sizes and you should search for the one that matches your vehicle type. It could happen that you can’t find a proper one for your car because Michelin doesn’t offer too many sizes.
All Seasons
This wiper blade is suitable for all seasons thanks to the durable construction that ensures a stable position regardless of the harsh conditions such as strong wind and pouring rain. The Smart Flex technology also adds to the overall great performance along with the aerodynamic cover that prevents debris, snow, and ice building up on the wiper.
Additionally, it features an EZ lock connector system that allows for simple installation. The only thing you might struggle with are the poorly written instructions. Most users had to search for some online instructions and youtube videos to figure out how to attach it properly to the windshield.
Cost and Value
Although Michelin offers many useful features and provides exceptional performance, it’s quite expensive. You won’t be needing new wiper blades any time soon, that’s for sure, but you’ll have to add a few more bucks to get a pair of these!
Rubber parts for superior cleaning and reduced noise
Smart Flex technology ensures a close fit
Suitable for all seasons
Sturdy and durable
Aerodynamic cover
Doesn’t offer many sizes
Expensive
Trico 12-B
Trico offers a wide range of different sizes and comes with special adaptors to suit every vehicle! It features a unique design to follow the line of curved windshields and stay close to the glass in every situation. The company uses modern technology to ensure that equal pressure is applied over the entire length of the wiper blade. This way, your windshield will be sparkling clean every time the wiper is on – Trico makes sure that no residues or streaks remain on the glass and obstruct your view!
High Protection
When it comes to sturdiness and overall durability, Trico achieved excellent results. Most users love it because of its heavy-duty polymer shell that offers protection from snow, ice, wind, and more.
Although it’s not as durable as some of the first-class wiper blades we had earlier on our list, it performs quite well and it will last for quite a while. Our only concern comes from the fact that some users had problems with the installation. The process itself is very simple, but it sometimes happens that little assembling parts break under the pressure. Make sure to be gentle on the Trico wiper during the installation!
Cost and Value
As we already said, this wiper blade comes at a budget-friendly price and yet it offers a lot in terms of quality and overall performance. Sure, it has its flaws but it’s easy on the pocketbook and quite durable for the price. Even if you do replace them after one season, you’ll be quite satisfied with the provided value for the money.
Comes in many different sizes and includes special adapters
Follows the curves of the windshield
Sturdy and durable
Easy to install
Budget-friendly
Not as durable as some of the earlier models
Installation could be tricky
Criteria Used in Evaluation of the Best Wiper Blades
In order to rank our 10 best picks, we had to apply strict criteria and assign points according to the overall quality and performance of each one of them. Here are some of the most important factors that influenced the evaluation:
Performance
When we say performance we mean the overall ability of every wiper blade to efficiently clean the windshield without leaving any residues or streaks. The windshield has to be sparkling clean for you to have the best view on the road! We have to admit that all of our picks offer flawless cleaning results which are the main reason they ended up on our list. Therefore, we assigned some points for other things that influence their performance such as less or more noise when cleaning, included parts for installation and adaptors for a perfect fit to the windshield, and more.
Installation
While the installation of wiper blades seems like a simple task, it can sometimes become rather tricky! You can even damage the product while trying to attach it properly to the windshield. Therefore, we had to assign some points to products that allow for easy and quick installation, while we took some points from those who come with missing information, don’t include manuals, or require a lot of effort in general.
Durability
Every high-quality wiper blade has to be sturdy enough to withstand harsh weather conditions and last for a long time. The most durable products are on the top of our list, providing flawless performance for years! They are able to withstand all kinds of outside threats and still deliver exceptional performance and perfect cleaning results. However, don’t skip to check the products at the bottom of the list. They are maybe not as durable as the top picks, but they still offer great performance and you might find them more suitable for your personal needs!
Cost and Value
Last but not least, we took into account the overall value that every wiper blade provides for the money. While we picked only the best ones on the market, some of them are quite expensive and not all drivers can afford them. On the other hand, we had to make sure that cheap ones have to offer enough value to meet a wide range of needs and requirements.
Other Factors to Consider When Picking Wiper Blades
Before you make a final decision and buy one of these amazing wiper blades, we recommend taking a few more moments to consider some of the additional factors that could influence your decision. Here is what we have in mind:
Size
First and foremost, you have to make sure that a particular size will fit your vehicle. Always use provided size charts and double check by measuring your old wiper blades. If you’re still not quite sure which size to get, consult a technician. It’s better to check all of this before the very purchase than going through the hassle of returning the product before you even get to chance to try it out!
Climate
When choosing wiper blades, you should always keep in mind the conditions they will be exposed to on a daily basis. For example, if you live in a rainy place you should definitely opt for a water-repellent design. You’ll need a heavy-duty one for winter, without metal parts that would pile up the snow and ice on your windshield, while you need a special UV resistant ones for hot summers. Think about the climate in your driving area and only then you can decide on the proper type!
Budget
If you have some extra cash to spend on your new wiper blades, we strongly recommend doing so. High-quality ones can last for years without any issues, providing exceptional performance during every ride and at any weather. However, even if you’re on a tight budget you can still find some amazing products that offer more than decent performance. They maybe won’t last for years, but they can be quite durable and clean the windshield perfectly!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I replace my old wiper blades?
A: You should replace your wiper blades every six months, but they can also last longer or shorter depending on their quality. If they are not cleaning the windshield properly and you can’t see clearly through the glass, you should immediately replace them. Of course, you already know that you have to replace the ones that are smearing your windshield, but sometimes even the smallest streaks could obstruct our view or make it more difficult to concentrate. As soon as you see residues or streaks on the glass, don’t hesitate to look for a new pair of wiper blades. Also, they should clean almost every part of the windshield and sweep smoothly across the glass.
Q: Is there a proper way to clean them?
A: Cleaning your wiper blades isn’t rocket science, but it can be a tricky process. They are more prone to damages during the cleaning process than in those tough moments when they are exposed to harsh weather such as strong wind and pouring rain. Make sure to use a soft piece of cloth and gently rub the parts when cleaning. You don’t want to rub them too hard because you can damage the fragile parts. Also, you should clean them every time you clean your vehicle because frequent washes and proper maintenance will prolong their lifespan!
Q: Are they universal?
A: No, every vehicle requires differently sized wiper blades. Some of them do provide a universal fit to the shape of the windshield, but you still have to order a proper size for your vehicle. A universal fit refers to the shape of the wiper rather than the size!
Q: Is there any special type for the winter?
A: Technically, all wiper blades can be used during winter, but not all of them offer great performance and only a few will actually live to see the spring! There are specially designed wiper blades that can effectively clean the windshield without piling up the snow on the glass. They might cost more than the regular ones, but they are well worth it. Also, you can aim for the ones that offer water-repellent coating so that your windshield is well protected even when they are not working.
Q: Do they all produce chattering noise?
A: No, they shouldn’t be noisy at all. However, sometimes they are not to blame for this annoying sound. It often happens that the windshield is frozen or there is not enough water for wipers to swipe smoothly. Also, due to strong winds and other harsh weather conditions, the wiper arm could be bent and cause this sound. Make sure that it keeps its position and clean the wiper blades on a regular basis because the pilled dirt could cause malfunction and chattering as well!
Sources
- , Winter vs. Summer Windshield Wipers, Article
- , What Size Windshield Wipers Are Right for My Car?, Article
- , How to Check and Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades, Article
