Budget Window Tinting Tools – Full Kit Tested & Reviewed
If you’ve ever wanted to get into window tinting without spending a lot of money, today’s breakdown is for you. We recently did an unboxing of a complete budget-friendly tinting tool kit sent to us for testing. This kit includes everything a beginner needs to start practicing, trying their luck, and seeing whether window tinting is something they want to pursue.
Instead of showing everything in bags, we’re laying out each tool clearly so you can understand what each one does — and how useful it actually is in real tinting work.
Recommended tools for tinting?
byu/gargen_state inWindowTint
1. Hard Pass Squeegee
This tool is extremely effective for extracting large amounts of water from windows when laying the film. You’ll be using this constantly.
2. Window Shank Tool
This small shank slides behind the window seal to help tuck the film underneath. We used it throughout the install and it worked great.
3. Triangle Tools / “Easy Reach”
These triangle-shaped tools are must-haves. They reach far into the sides of the window to squeegee water where regular tools can’t reach.
The “Easy Reach” included in the kit is perfect — flexible, sharp, and essential when the film goes deeper than the edge of typical tools.
4. Hand-Cutting Blades & Holder
The kit includes 10 blades and a blade holder with another blade inside. This is ideal for cutting film by hand cleanly and safely.
5. Shrinking / Finger-Knocking Card
When shrinking the tint on the outside of the window, this card is what you’ll use to knock down fingers after heating. Great that this was included — you definitely need something like this.
6. Chisler Tool
This small chisler is perfect for fixing minor tinting mistakes like soft creases.
You do need to be gentle — it can scratch the film — but it’s very useful for smoothing out imperfections.
7. The Conqueror Squeegee
Known as the “Conqueror,” this ergonomic tool swipes nicely and feels great in the hand. We used it a lot and it performed well.
8. Plastic Blade Holder & Plastic Blades
This is ideal for cleaning windows before tinting, helping remove debris without scratching the glass. The kit also includes additional plastic blades.
9. Mini Rubber Squeegee
This small squeegee is useful for tiny areas like quarter windows. It doesn’t fit into other holders, so it’s meant to be used on its own.
10. Hard Card
Perfect for bumping top edges or knocking down fingers after shrinking. Durable, stiff, and essential in any tinting toolkit.
11. Vinyl Tuck Tool
Another tool for tucking film into the bottom seal of the window. It’s firmer than the shank, so it works on tighter seals where more rigidity is needed.
12. The Back-Glass Tools (Scrubbers & Bulldozer)
These two large tools are the stars of the kit for rear windows:
Back Glass Scrubber
Comes with scrubby pads and is used to aggressively clean the back glass. It helps loosen dirt, dust, and hair — all of which can ruin tint.
Bulldozer Tool
Perfect for reaching the bottom of the back windshield near the brake light. It’s firm and designed for water extraction behind tight spaces on the back glass.
Using the Full Kit
We tried all of these tools on a Hyundai Elantra and were genuinely impressed. This kit includes almost everything you need to start tinting — even as a complete beginner.
The only additional items you need are:
- A heat gun
- A spray bottle with soapy slip solution
And you don’t need expensive versions — you can find both for around $20 each if you know where to look.
Final Thoughts
The Pro Tinting Tool Kit had everything we needed to get the job done. Whether you’re a beginner or just experimenting to see if tinting is something you want to pursue, this kit is absolutely worth it.
It was fun testing all of this out, and we were pleasantly impressed with the quality.
Thanks for working with us on this Hyundai Elantra — see you in the next one!
Are budget window tinting tools good for beginners?
Yes. Budget tint tool kits usually include all the essential tools a beginner needs, making them a cost-effective way to start learning.
What tools do I need to tint windows on a budget?
You generally need a squeegee, hard card, razor blades, an easy-reach tool, a shank, and a spray bottle with slip solution.
Can cheap tinting tools still give a professional finish?
Yes—if you prep the glass well and use the tools correctly. Technique matters more than tool price.
Do budget window tint kits include everything required?
Most kits include all basic tools, but you may still need a heat gun and a sprayer to complete the job properly.
How long do low-cost tint tools last?
They can last months with light use. Blades wear out fastest, but other tools usually hold up well for beginner-level tinting.
