Cerakote Ceramic Sealant vs Tough As Shell – Which Protects Better?

Jimbo Balaam on

Looking at Cerakote® Ceramic Sealant for your next detailing project? We compared it directly to Tough As Shell to see which delivers better gloss, durability, and ease of use. The results might surprise you—especially if you want protection that actually lasts up to a year.

Cerakote Ceramic Sealant vs Tough As Shell – Which Protects Better?

 

Cerakote Ceramic Sealant vs Tough As Shell – Which Protects Better?

If you’re looking for a spray-on ceramic coating, Cerakote® Ceramic Sealant is one option you’ll see everywhere—from Amazon to big box auto stores. But does it truly outperform other sprays, or is there a smarter choice? In this guide, we put it head-to-head with Tough As Shell, our pro-grade ceramic spray designed for maximum gloss, slickness, and durability.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature Cerakote Ceramic Sealant Tough As Shell
Durability Up to 6 months Up to 12 months
Application Spray & wipe, 2-step process Spray on, wipe off – single-step
Surface Safety Safe on paint & glass Safe on paint, glass, trim, wheels, PPF
Gloss Level Moderate High gloss, slick finish
Hydrophobic Performance Strong water beading Extreme beading + self-cleaning

Real-World Performance

In side-by-side testing, Tough As Shell consistently showed stronger hydrophobic properties and held up longer against daily driving conditions. After 6 months, Cerakote's water beading noticeably declined, while Tough As Shell maintained strong performance even past the 9-month mark.

Application Experience

Cerakote recommends a two-step process: applying the product, then buffing with a second cloth. Tough As Shell simplifies this to a single-step wipe-off, saving time without sacrificing results. This makes it ideal for both professional detailers and DIY car care enthusiasts.

Watch the Comparison in Action

Verdict – Which Should You Choose?

If you want a ceramic spray that’s easy to use, safe on all surfaces, and built to last, Tough As Shell is the clear winner. Cerakote Ceramic Sealant isn’t a bad product, but it falls short in longevity, versatility, and overall finish compared to Tough As Shell.

Best Cerakote Replacement: Tough As Shell

If you want real ceramic performance with longer durability and easier application, Tough As Shell is the smarter, proven alternative.

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