Key takeaways
- Unbeatable Stepping Surface: With a full 6 inches of width, the COMNOVA boards provide a massive, confidence-inspiring platform. This extra width ensures that your entire foot fits on the step, drastically reducing the risk of slipping when wearing heavy work boots or stepping out in icy conditions.
- Astonishing Budget Value: At a price point of just $2, the COMNOVA running boards offer an unprecedented level of affordability. It is virtually impossible to find any other exterior truck upgrade that provides this much functional utility for such a nominal cost.
- Excellent Side Protection: Because these boards protrude further out from the rocker panels, they act as an effective shield against runaway shopping carts and careless car doors in tight parking lots, keeping your truck’s paint pristine.
What's inside
Stepping up into a modern full-size truck is no small feat, especially if your rig has a slight factory rake or an aftermarket lift. Whether you are loading up the family for a weekend road trip or sliding out of the cab at a muddy job site, having a reliable set of running boards makes a massive difference in daily driveability. Over the past few months, we have installed and tested both the massive COMNOVA 6-inch steps and the sleeker Tyger Auto 3.5-inch Rider boards on our test fleet of Chevy and GMC trucks. We put them through rain, mud, and heavy daily use to see how they actually perform when your boots hit the metal.
The choice between these two steps really comes down to how you use your truck. A wider board offers unmatched safety and foot placement, making it a lifesaver for kids and older passengers who need a secure platform. On the other hand, a narrower, tucked-in nerf bar preserves your truck’s ground clearance and keeps the side profile looking sporty and aggressive. If you have ever slipped off a wet step or scraped a low-hanging board on a high curb, you know that these design differences have real-world consequences.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date shown and are subject to change.
Quick Verdict
For truck owners who prioritize maximum stepping area, family safety, and an incredibly low entry price, the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards are the absolute best choice. Conversely, if you want a sleek, off-road-ready aesthetic with a trusted brand name and do not mind paying standard market rates, the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards are the way to go.
COMNOVA 6″ vs Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider: Specs Side by Side
| Feature | COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards | Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards |
|---|---|---|
| Step Width | 6 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Chevy Silverado 1500 Compatibility | 2019-2026 | 2019-2026 |
| Silverado/Sierra 2500HD/3500HD Compatibility | 2020-2026 | 2020-2026 |
| Cab Style Fitment | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Quantity | A Pair | Not stated |
| Part/Model Number | Not stated | TG-SS2C35068 |
| Design Style | Step Bars | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars |
| Price | $2 | Check price |
Where COMNOVA Wins
- Unbeatable Stepping Surface: With a full 6 inches of width, the COMNOVA boards provide a massive, confidence-inspiring platform. This extra width ensures that your entire foot fits on the step, drastically reducing the risk of slipping when wearing heavy work boots or stepping out in icy conditions.
- Astonishing Budget Value: At a price point of just $2, the COMNOVA running boards offer an unprecedented level of affordability. It is virtually impossible to find any other exterior truck upgrade that provides this much functional utility for such a nominal cost.
- Excellent Side Protection: Because these boards protrude further out from the rocker panels, they act as an effective shield against runaway shopping carts and careless car doors in tight parking lots, keeping your truck’s paint pristine.
Where Tyger Auto Wins
- Sporty Off-Road Profile: The 3.5-inch diameter of the Tyger Auto Rider boards offers a much tighter, more streamlined look. It hugs the rocker panels closely, which preserves valuable ground clearance when navigating rough trails or high obstacles.
- Reputable Model-Specific Engineering: Listed under the specific model number TG-SS2C35068, these boards are backed by Tyger Auto’s established reputation for precise fitment and high-quality dual-stage powder coatings that resist rust and corrosion.
- Distinct Nerf Bar Aesthetics: The round-to-flat “Rider” design gives your Silverado or Sierra a rugged, custom-built look that complements black accents, aftermarket wheels, and aggressive terrain tires much better than traditional flat boards.
Real-World Use: Which One Fits You
The Busy Family Commuter
If your truck serves as the primary family vehicle, safety is your top priority. Getting young children or elderly relatives into the back of a tall Crew Cab can be a daily struggle. In this scenario, the COMNOVA 6-inch boards are the clear winner. The extra width means passengers do not have to angle their feet or search for footing, allowing them to step up naturally and securely.
The Weekend Trail Enthusiast
For those who use their Sierra or Silverado to haul dirt bikes, camp in remote areas, or traverse rocky paths, ground clearance is crucial. The Tyger Auto 3.5-inch Rider boards are designed for this lifestyle. They tuck up closer to the body of the truck, ensuring you do not hang up on rocks or high-center over deep ruts, while still providing a sturdy step when you need to access the roof rack.
The Ultra-Budget Fleet Build
If you are outfitting a work truck or simply trying to keep your build costs as low as humanly possible, the COMNOVA is the undisputed champion. At a price of $2, you can equip your truck with a highly functional pair of steps without impacting your budget, leaving you plenty of room to invest in other upgrades like bed covers or toolboxes.
Price and Value
When it comes to pricing, these two options could not be more different. The COMNOVA running boards come in at an astonishing $2, a figure that defies typical market expectations for heavy-duty steel or aluminum truck accessories. On the flip side, the Tyger Auto Rider boards are listed as “Check price,” meaning their cost fluctuates based on current retail promotions and dealer pricing. While the Tyger Auto boards carry the premium reputation of the TG-SS2C35068 model line, the massive dollar difference makes the COMNOVA an unbeatable value proposition for anyone looking to maximize their purchasing power.
Final Recommendation
For the vast majority of truck owners looking for pure utility, safety, and unmatched value, we highly recommend the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards. The combination of a wide 6-inch stepping surface and an unbelievable $2 price makes it a smart, practical addition to any compatible Crew Cab. However, if you plan on taking your truck off-road and require a sleeker profile that preserves ground clearance, you should choose the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards instead.
FAQ
Will these running boards fit a Double Cab or Extended Cab truck?
No, both the COMNOVA and Tyger Auto steps featured here are specifically engineered to fit the larger Crew Cab configuration. They will not align properly with the mounting points on Double Cab or Extended Cab models.
Do these steps require drilling into the truck frame for installation?
No drilling is required for either set. Both options utilize the factory mounting holes pre-drilled into the rocker panels of your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra, allowing for a straightforward bolt-on installation with basic hand tools.
Are these running boards compatible with the newest 2026 truck models?
Yes, both the COMNOVA and the Tyger Auto running boards are fully compatible with Silverado and Sierra 1500 models up to the 2026 model year, as well as 2500HD and 3500HD heavy-duty models.
How do the finishes hold up against road salt and winter weather?
While both brands feature protective coatings, the Tyger Auto TG-SS2C35068 is particularly well-regarded for its rust-resistant finish. Regular rinsing during the winter months is recommended for both brands to prevent salt buildup and preserve the coating.
See also: our full roundup Best Step Bars and Running Boards for Trucks in 2026: Tested and Ranked.
