Adams Graphene Spray vs Tough As Shell – Which Coating Holds Up?
Adams Graphene Ceramic Spray has built a reputation as a pro-grade coating. But how does it actually compare to Tough As Shell in the real world?
We put both to the test—same cars, same prep, same exposure—to find out which coating is actually worth your time and money.
→ Read the original Adams vs Tough As Shell breakdown
What Adams Graphene Spray Claims
- Graphene oxide infusion for added durability
- Up to 1 year of protection
- Gloss, slickness, and water repellency
In marketing, it sounds unbeatable—but on real paint, the results were mixed.
Real-World Comparison
Application
- Adams: Slightly tacky, needs buffing to avoid streaks
- Tough As Shell: Light spray, wipes off clean in one pass
Water Behavior After 30 Days
- Adams: Beads degraded slightly on horizontal panels
- Tough As Shell: Consistent tight beading, especially on glass & trim
Gloss & Feel
- Adams: Decent slickness, moderate depth
- Tough As Shell: Higher gloss with a slicker feel, even after multiple washes
Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Feature | Adams Graphene Spray | Tough As Shell |
|---|---|---|
| Application Ease | Moderate | Easy |
| Initial Gloss | Good | Great |
| Water Beading Longevity | Moderate | Strong |
| Surface Compatibility | Paint only | Paint, glass, trim, vinyl wrap |
| Price to Performance | Good | Better |
What We Recommend
Adams makes solid products—but Tough As Shell wins on ease of use, surface compatibility, and real-world performance.
Especially for DIYers or pros doing frequent washes, Tough As Shell is faster to use and more forgiving on hot panels, trim, or glass.
