Does MAXL Work? We Tested It Against Real Ceramic Sprays

MAXL looks good at first—but fades fast. Here’s what our testing found, and what to use instead for real ceramic protection.

Does MAXL Work? We Tested It Against Real Ceramic Sprays

Does MAXL Work? We Tested It Against Real Ceramic Sprays

MAXL Ceramic Spray has been all over TikTok and YouTube. But does it actually work, or is it just another overhyped detail spray?

In this test, we applied MAXL next to a pro-grade ceramic spray and tracked beading, durability, and ease of use. Here's what we found.


What MAXL Claims to Do

According to the brand’s marketing, MAXL offers:

  • Hydrophobic protection for up to 6 months
  • High-gloss, mirror-like finish
  • Safe for all surfaces including paint, trim, and glass
  • Easy spray-and-wipe application

But when we actually tested it, the results were very different.


Our Real-World Test: MAXL vs Tough As Shell

We tested both products on clean, decontaminated panels (no wax or coating underneath), then exposed them to normal Southern California weather and weekly washes. Here's what happened:

Category MAXL Tough As Shell
Initial Gloss High shine, but oily Slick, deep gloss
Ease of Use Streaky on glass/black Wipe-on, wipe-off clean
Water Beading Mild beading at 2 weeks Strong sheeting at 8+ weeks
Longevity Gone after 2 washes Still active at 3–6 months

Verdict: MAXL looks good for a day or two—but doesn’t hold up like a real ceramic spray should.


Better Option: Tough As Shell

If you want real ceramic protection, Tough As Shell is built to deliver. It’s not a rebranded detailer with a fancy label—it’s an SiO₂-based formula that bonds and protects.

  • ✅ Lasts 3–6+ months per coat
  • ✅ Safe on paint, trim, glass, and wheels
  • ✅ Easy to apply, even in sun
  • ✅ Legitimate hydrophobic and self-cleaning behavior

It’s the spray ceramic that MAXL tries to act like—but never quite becomes.


Other MAXL Resources Worth Reading


Real Ceramic Protection. No Gimmicks.

Tough As Shell outperforms rebranded sprays like MAXL in durability, gloss, ease of use, and protection. Make the switch once—and you’ll never go back.