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Chains vs Cables: Detailed Comparison

April 19, 2019 By John Smith We are reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small commission.

Anti Slip Snow ChainsSecurity Chain Super Z6
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When you live in an area of the country that is prone to ice and snow, you may know a thing or two about chains and cables that are designed to help your vehicle get a grip on the surface that you are driving on.

In fact, there are even some parts of the country that require these tools to be attached to your vehicle when you are going to be driving on the highway. Although they are often considered to be very similar products, they do differ quite a bit.

In this guide, we are going to look at each one a little closer to determine which option is going to fit your needs best.

ModelType of carsSet, pcsRaiting
Anti Slip Snow ChainsPassenger Car, Truck, SUV104
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Price
Security Chain Company Super Z6Passenger Cars, Pickups, and SUVs23.9
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Price
Shark C50072 Super LongerPassenger Car, SUV24.4
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Price
We aim to show you accurate product information. Manufacturers, suppliers, and others provide what you see here, and we have not verified it. See our disclaimer.

Anti-Slip Snow Chains for SUV / Car / Truck Tires

These chains are designed with the ability to drive in winter conditions as well as mud. This is a universal model that can be applied to most tires; however, the width of the tire will need to be 7.2 inches to 11.6 inches wide.

This means, that these are chains that will fit on most SUVs and trucks, but it may not fit on all cars because they tend to have smaller tires. To make sure that these will fit your vehicle’s tires, it’s always important to check the tire size before ordering.

These chains have a great design that will easily break the ice that you were driving on to allow your tires to grip the road. They are made of alloy steel, so any contact with the ground is designed to be nonslip. Also, this premium material is designed to be able to handle cold temperatures well, so they can even work well in temperatures that are below negative 50 degrees Celsius.

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When using these chains, you should be driving at a slower speed of about 25 to 30 miles per hour. Driving too quickly with these chains attached to your vehicle can cause them to slip off the tire, which can be very hazardous, especially if the chain wraps around the axel. This makes the less safe driving conditions much easier to manage.

One of the biggest issues that people have noticed about this chain is the fact that if they’re not tightened properly, they can easily fall off or break when you are driving. Because of the movement that happens when you are driving, these Chains can leave scuff marks on your hubcaps and even the tires themselves.

The installation of these chains is also very simple; in fact, the entire process should only take minutes to complete. The set comes with 10 chains that you can attach to your tires, so you will need to attach five to each tire.

If you have a vehicle that is front-wheel drive, then a set of 10 will be sufficient, but for a four-wheel drive vehicle, you will want to purchase two sets so that you can put the chains on all four of your tires.

Is it Recommended?

If you are looking for a safe way to travel in the snow and the ice, then these chains will present a great option that will give you plenty of grip on the road. It also works well in muddy conditions, but it is not really recommended product that you should get for your vehicle unless you live in an area where snow and ice are prevalent.

The chains are designed to break through the ice and snow and give you traction on the road.

Pros
  • Touches the ground covered with high rigidity alloy nail, skid-resistant.
  • 360° omni-directional.
  • Insure a comfortable drive with less vibration and noise.
  • These fit well on most SUVs, trucks, and cars.
  • The installation process is quick and easy.
  • These chains are designed to be used in snow, ice, and mud.
  • This is a very durable chain and can handle very low temperatures.
  • It can easily be installed without moving your vehicle.
Cons
  • The instructions are difficult to decipher at points.
  • If the straps are not tightly installed, they will become loose while driving.
  • With these chains installed, you will not be able to travel faster than 30 miles per hour.
  • These chains can easily leave scuff marks on your tires if they are not properly tightened.

Anti Slip Snow Chains for SUV Car Adjustable Universal Emergency Thickening Anti Skid Tire Chain,Winter Driving Security Chains,Traction Mud Snow Chains for Car/Truck Tire Width 7.2-11.6",10 Pcs

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What Customers are Saying

The chains work as intended, but you will most likely need more than the instructions that are provided to install them properly.

In heavy snow and ice, these chains are ideal for gripping the road and giving you the traction that you need to drive safely in these conditions.

When attempting stopping with the chains on the tires, they stopped instantaneously without any skidding or sliding.

The installation of the chains is very simple to do, especially if you watch a Youtube video explaining the process.

Security Chain Company Super Z6 Cable for Cars / Pickups / SUVs

These cables, which are designed to be used in pickup trucks, cars, and SUVs is another great option to be used in the winter time. it is available in multiple sizes, so make sure that you know the size of your vehicle’s tire before making a purchase.

The tire sizes that are available for this cable range from 215 millimeters to 285 millimeters. These cables will give you better traction on your tires so that you can move safely in the snow and ice.

This is a set of cables that is designed to be compatible with vehicles that have four wheel drive, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. When you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, it is important to apply the same cables to all of your wheels so that you get the traction that you are going to need to get through the winter.

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When you are driving with these cables on your wheels, it is advised that you drive at less than 30 miles per hour so that all four of your vehicle’s tires maintain traction. These cables are not designed to break the ice and get your tires to the surface of the road; the potential traction that you will get is in the snow in most cases.

When it comes to the installation process of these cables, you will find that it is swift and easy to install. Also, there is no need to move the vehicle when you are applying the cables to the tire. One of the best features of these cables is the rubber tightener that is built-in to the design that is made to adjust the tightness on the tire as you are in motion.

This means that there is no chance of the cable coming off while you are driving or requiring you to pull over and tighten it when you are trying to travel in adverse conditions.

As part of the “Z” family, installing these cables requires much less clearance than most other cables and change the design for your tires. In fact, it is designed with a diagonal pattern that is designed to provide better traction and durability.

Is it Recommended?

This is a very durable option that is versatile enough to fit on a variety of vehicles. These cables are able to offer you more grip on the road as you drive, and they are even straightforward to install onto your vehicle. If you live in an area where snow is common, then this may be a great option to consider, but it does not have the capability of breaking the ice to reach the surface of the road.

Pros
  • These cables are very simple to install, especially if you watch a video.
  • The grip that these cables provide is exceptional.
  • These cables come with a carry bag that is designed to be used when there is no snow on the ground.
  • The fit of these cables on most tires is excellent.
  • The traction that these cables provide will get you through the snow with ease.
  • There is no need to move your vehicle to install these cables.
  • This versatile option can be used on trucks, cars, and SUVs.
Cons
  • The entire tensioner is made of rubber, so it may not be the most durable.
  • These cables cost a bit more than most chains.
  • These cables seem to rust easily, especially if left on the tires during a snowstorm.
  • These cables create a hum and a vibration that seem to increase with speed.
  • The size options on Amazon seem to be a bit off, so make sure the measurements are correct when ordering.

What Customers are Saying

These cables are straightforward to install, especially since the instructions are designed for individuals who have no experience installing them.

These cables do not take much time at all to put on your vehicle, and they are made from very heavy duty materials that will last for quite some time.

Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems. Greater durability than conventional tire chains or cables. Low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused.

These cables are very safe, which will bring you a lot of comfort on the road. You will immediately be able to feel the tires gripping to increase the traction on the road, and when you are ready to stop, no sliding or slipping should happen.

These are a great option to use when you are going to be traveling a lot in the wintertime. They work well in ice and snow as well as melting snow that can make your tires spin when you try to move.

Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain for Passenger Cars, Pickups, and SUVs - Set of 2

  • Please refer to the Application Guide under Technical Specification or product images and for fitment details, and product video for installation instructions.
  • Designed for cars, pickups, and SUVs with very limited operating clearance around the drive tires
  • Fast easy installation with no need to move the vehicle
  • Designed-in rubber tightener means there is no need to stop and retighten after installation
  • Better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables
  • Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems
  • PLEASE NOTE:  Chains should be fitted to tire before actual use.  Fitment can be affected by age of tire, tire manufacturer and/or tread type.
$110.27 -$5.28 $104.99
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Who’s The Winner?

When it comes to whether using chains or cables on your tires is best, both can be great options to consider during the wintertime; however, one is going to be better than the other option for your needs. If you live in an area of the country where snowfall is going to hinder your way to work, then you may want to consider the cables.

However, if you live in an area that is going to have a lot of ice as well as snow that you will need to consider when you need to drive somewhere, then the chains may be best for your needs.

An Alternate Option to Consider: The Shark C50072 Super Longer Life Issue Snow Socks for Traction

The final option that we are going to look at in this review is a snow sock that is designed to give your vehicle more traction in the snow. This sock comes in multiple sizes, which makes it more compatible with different cars, trucks, and SUVs.

The sock is designed to provide traction in the snow so that traveling in snowy conditions is less hazardous. When it is windy outside, these socks will also help add traction to the surface of the road, which is especially helpful when it is raining.

Designed to increase the traction of your vehicle on snow and ice, these socks have extra resistant fibers that are designed to be more durable. the 3D braiding of the material is designed to give your tire better grip in snowy conditions as well as increase the lifespan of the material. It is also designed with Nanotek which is responsible for controlling odor and bacteria that may develop on your tire.

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Because traveling with these socks on your tires can be tougher to handle at higher speeds, it is recommended that you do not exceed 30 miles per hour when you drive with the socks in place. If you need to drive for a longer period of time on clear roads, you may not be able to keep them in position easily.

This is a system that is designed to provide a lot of traction without a lot of hassle. Driving vibrations are not noticeable with this sock system because there is nothing large that you are going to need to run over with the wheel, and you need very little clearance to install it.

The installation process is very simple to complete; in fact, all you need to do is wrap the sock around your tire as tightly as possible and move forward slightly to finish putting it in place.

Is it Recommended?

If you are looking for a way to increase your traction in the snow, then a sock system may be the best option for you to consider. It is made from a very durable material event can keep you from sliding in snowy conditions, The material is designed to be recycled when you are done using it so that it is safe for the environment.

Pros
  • Low clearance compatible.
  • No driving vibration.
  • These socks are very straightforward to install.
  • They are designed to add traction in wet snow that is reasonably deep.
  • They are designed to be legal where snow chains are prohibited.
  • They are designed to be used off-road as well, so an unplowed driveway should be easy to traverse.
Cons
  • There is very limited clearance space that will be required when you are looking to install the socks.
  • You do need to move the car when you are installing it.
  • If the sock tears, they will not be usable.

Shark C50072 Super Longer Life Issue Snow Socks for Traction

  • Offers incredible traction in dangerous wintry conditions
  • Longer life than the Classic snow socks
  • Various sizes fit cars from small to SUV's
  • Easy to install
  • Machine washable
$145.89
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What Customers are Saying

With the socks on the vehicle, there is very little sliding on the road. In fact, it is easy to maintain a reasonable distance between you and cars in front of you.

As long as you keep your speed to a reasonable level, you will not have any issues driving in the snow with these.

The installation process is a simple one to complete that does not require a lot of effort.

When you no longer need them on the road, they will be dirty, so have a bag on hand that you can use to store them in.

FAQ/Buyer’s Guide

Contents:

  • Do you need to put snow chains on all four tires?
  • Why are snow chains illegal?
  • Do you need snow chains for 4wd?
  • How fast can you drive with chains on?
  • Can I drive with tire chains on pavement?
  • Do chains ruin tires?
  • Do tire chains work on ice?

Do you need to put snow chains on all four tires?

It depends on the type of vehicle that you are driving. You are going to need to have all four tires covered when you have a four-wheel drive vehicle; however, since some other models only use one set of axles to pull the car, you may only need to put the chains on either the front or the back of the vehicle.

Why are snow chains illegal?

The use of snow chains is not always permitted in every state. It may only be allowed to be used when there is a snow emergency in effect in the area where you live, or perhaps it will be required to drive with snow chains. In some areas, especially areas where it does not snow often, these chains may be illegal to use so that they do not tear up the roads and damage them as you drive.

Do you need snow chains for 4wd?

It is not required that you have snow chains on your four-wheel drive, but it is recommended that they be used, especially if you are going to be traveling in snowy conditions that are difficult to manage. If you have a lack of tread on your tires, you will find that your vehicle can still slide in snow and ice, even when you have four-wheel drive.

How fast can you drive with chains on?

When you are driving with snow chains on, it is recommended that you drive at a speed that is between 20 and 30 miles per hour. This is recommended because of the conditions of the road as well as the added vibrations of running over the chain as you drive. Drive at a speed that is safe for the conditions of the road, so if you need to go slower to be safe, do so.

Can I drive with tire chains on pavement?

You can use chains on your tires when you are driving on bare pavement; however, it is recommended that you only use them when it is required to drive safely in the snow. Using the chains without snow being on the ground can wear down the chains more quickly, and it could even cause damage to your tires if you do it a lot.

Do chains ruin tires?

Snow chains will not damage your tires when you only use them occasionally. However, if you keep them on your tires for the entire winter, the way that you drive your vehicle could cause damage to the tires. Hitting a curb or locking your wheels with the chains on could also cause damage.

Do tire chains work on ice?

Tire chains are designed to work well on both snow-covered roads and ice. If you are having trouble getting traction on the road, the chain will be able to break through the ice and help you gain the grip that you need when you are driving. Though, snow chains may not work as well on black ice that is thinner and more difficult to see on the roads.

Final Thoughts

In this guide, we have discussed the differences between snow chain, snow cables, and snow socks. They are all great options for traveling in the snow and ice, but they are all a bit different. Decide whether you need chains to help break the ice, cables to help you get a good grip on the road, or a sock to help you have more traction while you are on the go.

A snow chain is going to give you the most versatility, but they are not legal to use in some areas, so you may need to select another option. In the future, there may be a solution that can give you the safety that these products provide when you are driving on a snow-covered road that can be used all of the time. However, for now, these options are more than adequate.

4.4/5 - (7 votes)

Filed Under: Accessories, Blog

About John Smith

I have a Diploma in Vehicle Mechanics. I enjoy hearing from you, share your car problems, share ideas, and I will give you the best advises on how to solve your car problem.

The Only Thing Left To Do Now Is To Choose:

  • Chains vs Cables: Detailed Comparison
  • Anti Slip Snow Chains
  • Security Chain Company Super Z6
  • Shark C50072 Super Longer
  • FAQ /Buyer’s Guide

See also

Security Chain Company SZ1174 Tire Traction Chain Rubber Tightener - Set of 2

$21.77 -$0.53 $21.24

Amazon Basics Blue Light Blocking Safety Glasses Eye Protection, Anti-Fog, Orange Lens, 12-Count

$31.64 ($2.64 / Count)

Mallory 532 Cool-Force 26” Snowbrush with Ice Scraper, 1 Pack

$13.26 -$2.42 $10.84

Deluxe Ice Scraper (2 Pack) W/Foam Handle 10.5" Long 5.25" Wide Blade

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