6-Inch vs 3.5-Inch Running Boards: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 6-Inch vs 35 inch running board depends on your need for step width versus ground clearance. Both options provide a 500 lb weight capacity and direct bolt-on installation without drilling. The main difference lies in the step surface: one offers a broad 6-inch stainless steel platform, while the other uses a 3.5-inch oval tube design. You must decide which profile fits your truck's geometry and your daily entry habits.
Key differences
| Aspect | COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board | Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards |
|---|---|---|
| Step Width | 6 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Carbon Steel |
| Finish | Stainless Steel | E-coating heavy textured powder finish |
| Tube Shape | Flat/Rectangular (implied by stainless steel step) | Oval |
| Weight | 49.6 pounds | 41.9 pounds |
| Warranty | not listed | 3 year |
Which one should you choose?
Choose COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board if
- You prefer a wider 6-inch platform for more secure footing.
- You want a stainless steel surface that resists rust without extra coating.
- You are installing on older 2007-2018 models or HD trucks.
Choose Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards if
- You need a lighter unit that weighs 41.9 pounds.
- You want a 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
- You prefer an oval tube design with a textured powder finish.
Verdict: Select the COMNOVA 6-inch board if you prioritize a wider step surface and stainless steel durability. Choose the Tyger Auto 3.5-inch board if you prefer a lighter, oval-tube design backed by a manufacturer warranty.
Step Width vs Profile Height
Step surface width
The COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board offers a 6-inch wide step surface. This broad platform provides a secure footing for your boots, which is helpful if you have larger shoe sizes or prefer extra stability when entering the cabin. In contrast, the Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards feature a 3.5-inch step pad. While narrower, the oval tube design creates a wider surface than single round tubes. You get a focused foothold that is still substantial enough for most users, but the COMNOVA clearly provides more lateral space for your feet.
Step height
Step height determines how high you must lift your leg to enter the truck. The COMNOVA model sits 2 inches above the rocker panel. This lower profile makes it easier to step up without straining your knees. The Tyger Auto option is positioned at 4.61 inches high. This higher placement requires more leg lift but can offer better protection for the side of the truck from road debris. If you prioritize ease of entry, the lower COMNOVA step is more practical. The Tyger design sacrifices some accessibility for a more aggressive stance.
Ground clearance
Ground clearance is critical for off-road driving and navigating steep driveways. The Tyger Auto running boards specify approximately 12 inches of ground clearance. This high profile keeps the bars well away from rocks, mud, and snow, reducing the risk of damage. The COMNOVA data does not list specific ground clearance measurements. However, with a step height of only 2 inches, the bars sit much closer to the ground. You should expect less clearance with the COMNOVA, making the Tyger Auto the better choice for rough terrain.
Material and finish
Build quality affects longevity and maintenance. The COMNOVA boards are made from stainless steel with anti-slip plastic steps. The brackets feature plastic covers to prevent rust formation. The Tyger Auto boards use a seamless carbon steel tube structure. They are coated with an E-coating and heavy textured powder finish to resist rust and corrosion. Both materials are durable. The COMNOVA offers a classic stainless look, while the Tyger provides a black textured finish. The seamless construction of the Tyger may offer slightly better protection against dirt and water buildup.
Weight and capacity
Both running boards support a weight capacity of 500 lb. This is sufficient for most users stepping in and out of the vehicle. The COMNOVA set weighs 49.6 pounds. The Tyger Auto set weighs 41.9 pounds. The Tyger bars are lighter, which might be a minor consideration for fuel efficiency or ease of handling during installation. However, the difference is small. Both systems use direct bolt-on installation without drilling. The weight capacity is identical, so neither product has a significant advantage in terms of load bearing or ease of installation.
Which Running Board Suits Your Truck?
Drivers prioritizing maximum step stability
The COMNOVA board features a 6-inch wide stainless steel step. This broad surface offers secure footing for larger boots. You gain confidence when entering or exiting your Crew Cab truck. The solid platform minimizes foot slippage. This width is ideal if you value a stable, spacious step over a lower profile design.
Owners needing higher ground clearance
The Tyger Auto board sits higher off the ground, providing approximately 12 inches of clearance. This helps protect the running boards from trail debris and rocks. The oval tube design adds stability while maintaining a lower visual profile. You get rust-resistant carbon steel construction with easier access to off-road obstacles.
Users wanting adjustable fitment
The COMNOVA model includes a slider design that allows forward and backward adjustment. This feature lets you customize the position on your vehicle for better fit. You can fine-tune the placement without complex tools. The patent-pending design ensures a secure mount. This adjustability is useful if your truck requires precise bracket alignment.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board | older Crew Cab trucks needing wide, adjustable steps | Check price of COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board on Amazon |
| 2 | Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards | Crew Cab trucks needing wide, stable steps | Check price of Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards on Amazon |
The products compared
COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board
Best for: older Crew Cab trucks needing wide, adjustable steps
- Width
- 6-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Cab Size
- Crew Cab
- Material
- Stainless Steel
- Step Width
- 6 inches
- Installation
- Direct bolt-on, no drilling
- Finish
- Stainless Steel
View on Amazon: COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board Affiliate link
This Comnova running board features a 6-inch wide step made from stainless steel and anti-slip plastic. It offers a 500 lb weight capacity and uses a direct bolt-on installation without drilling. The design includes a patented slider mechanism for forward and backward adjustment. It fits 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cabs, excluding diesel models. The 2-inch height provides secure footing for entering your truck.
Pros
- 6-inch wide stainless steel step for secure footing
- 500 lb weight capacity per bar
- Patented slider design allows forward and backward adjustment
- Direct bolt-on installation requires no drilling
Cons
- Not compatible with diesel engine models
- Excludes 2007 Silverado 1500 Classic
- Heavier build at 49.6 pounds compared to slimmer alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a wider 6-inch step for easier entry
- You want adjustable positioning for a custom fit
- You prefer stainless steel durability over plastic-only steps
Skip if
- You drive a 2019 or newer Silverado Crew Cab
- You have a diesel engine model
- You prefer a narrower 3.5-inch step for a sleeker look
Verdict: Comnova 6-Inch Stainless Steel Running Board fits buyers who prioritize a wide, adjustable step with high weight capacity for older Crew Cab models.
Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards
Best for: Crew Cab trucks needing wide, stable steps
- Width
- 3.5-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Compatible Vehicle
- 2019-2026 Silverado / Sierra 1500
- Cab Size
- Crew Cab
- Material
- Carbon steel
- Step Width
- 3.5 inch
- Tube Shape
- Oval
View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Affiliate link
This Tyger Auto running board offers a 3.5-inch step width for broader footing on your Silverado or Sierra. The oval tube design increases surface area compared to round tubes. It supports 500 lb on carbon steel construction with a textured powder finish. You get a 12-inch ground clearance and no-drill installation for Crew Cab models.
Pros
- 3.5-inch wide oval step pad for stability
- 500 lb weight capacity on carbon steel
- Seamless E-coating and powder finish for rust protection
- No drilling required for installation
Cons
- Heavier at 41.9 pounds than lighter alternatives
- Limited to Crew Cab configurations only
- No mention of integrated lighting or LED steps
Good fit if
- You want a wider step surface for easier entry
- You own a Crew Cab Silverado or Sierra
Skip if
- You drive a Double Cab or Extended Cab truck
- You prefer lightweight aluminum over carbon steel
Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Board suits Crew Cab owners who prioritize step width and heavy-duty steel construction over lightweight materials. It provides a stable, rust-resistant platform for daily use.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | COMNOVA 6" Stainless Steel Running Board | Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible Vehicle | not stated | 2019-2026 Silverado / Sierra 1500 |
| Cab Size | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Carbon steel |
| Step Width | 6 inches | 3.5 inch |
| Tube Shape | not stated | Oval |
| Installation | Direct bolt-on, no drilling | No drilling required |
| Finish | Stainless Steel | E-coating textured powder finish |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb. |
| Compatible Truck | Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra | Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra |
| Width | 6-Inch | 3.5-Inch |
| Style | not stated | Nerf Bars |
| Dimensions | 86 × 6 × 2 inches | 86.8 × 2.95 × 4.61 inches |
| Weight | 49.6 pounds | 41.9 pounds |
| Size | 07-18 Silverado Crew Cab | Silverado / Sierra Crew Cab (4th Gen) |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Black |
| Model | 15655H6-8-C | TG-SS2C35068 |
Frequently asked questions
Do 6-inch running boards fit all truck cabs?
No, fitment depends on your specific cab size. The COMNOVA 6-inch model is designed for Crew Cab trucks like the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. You must verify your truck’s cab configuration before purchasing. Narrower cabs may not accommodate the wider step profile correctly.
Is a 3.5-inch step too narrow for daily use?
It is sufficient for most users but offers less surface area than wider options. The Tyger Auto 3.5-inch model provides a 2.95-inch actual width. This stable platform works well for standard footwear. However, those with large boots might prefer the broader 6-inch alternative.
Which running board is heavier, 6-inch or 3.5-inch?
The 6-inch COMNOVA board weighs 49.6 pounds. The 3.5-inch Tyger Auto option weighs 41.9 pounds. The heavier unit offers a more solid feel but may require more effort during installation. Both weights fall within standard ranges for steel construction.
Do these steps increase ground clearance significantly?
They add height but do not drastically change approach angles. The COMNOVA board has a 2-inch height profile. The Tyger Auto model sits at 4.61 inches tall. This additional height aids entry but may slightly affect off-road clearance for very tight obstacles.
Are stainless steel running boards better than painted ones?
Stainless steel offers superior rust resistance and durability. The COMNOVA board uses stainless steel for long-term corrosion protection. The Tyger Auto model features a black finish over steel. Both materials provide heavy-duty strength, but stainless steel requires less maintenance to maintain its appearance.
Can I install these running boards without drilling?
Yes, both models use direct bolt-on installation. You do not need to drill holes into your truck’s frame. The COMNOVA and Tyger Auto boards attach using existing mounting points. This method preserves your vehicle’s structural integrity and simplifies the installation process.