If you’ve been around the Tacoma or overlanding scene for any time, you’ve probably come across the Prinsu name. Their roof racks have become a go-to option for adventurers looking to confidently mount rooftop tents, recovery gear, or extra storage.
When Prinsu announced the release of their new Pro version, I knew I had to check it out. It promised a complete redesign with improved strength, better modularity, and smarter features—all things I value in my build. If you want to know more about the original read my install and review. After recently installing the Prinsu Pro on my Tacoma, I wanted to share my first impressions, thoughts about the installation process, and what sets it apart from the standard version.
Features & Specs
- 44% stronger than previous generation rack
- 6 drop points per cross bar
- No-drill install process
- stainless steel hardware
- 2-part side rail construction
- 700 lb. dynamic weight load, 1200 lbs. static
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Table Of Contents
Why I Upgraded
My Tacoma has always been a platform for weekend getaways and longer overland trips. I’ve been running gear like a rooftop tent, recovery boards, and the occasional cargo box, so a strong and functional rack is essential. I had run the original Prinsu rack before, but it always felt like it needed just a little more in terms of strength and ease of accessory mounting.
The Pro version answered those concerns with better engineering and a tougher design. With a more rigid frame, drop-in crossbars, and stainless steel hardware, this rack looked like something that could handle both daily use and serious off-road travel without compromise.
Unboxing & First Impressions
When the Pro arrived, it was clear from the start that this wasn’t just a cosmetic refresh. The packaging was tight and well-organized, with protective wrapping around all the aluminum components and hardware neatly bagged and labeled. I appreciated the minimal use of plastic in the packaging—it was obvious the company put some thought into presentation and sustainability.
Handling the parts, I first noticed the upgraded construction of the side rails. They’re now a two-piece design with a unique top bend that gives them more structural rigidity and provides mounting slots directly along the outer face.
That little design tweak makes a big difference when adding accessories like an awning or shovel mount without needing to drill holes or hunt for weird brackets. The crossbars also feel significantly stronger than those on the older Prinsu rack. Each one is made from anodized 6063 aluminum and designed with multiple drop-in points, making mounting gear easier and more flexible than ever.
Installation Process
Installing the Prinsu Pro on my 2021 Tacoma was a pretty straightforward process. I took my time with it, mainly because I was filming parts of the process and snapping photos along the way, but all in all, it took me about two and a half hours from start to finish. Most of that time was spent aligning the side rails and evenly spacing the crossbars before tightening everything down.
One of the biggest improvements with the new model is the bolt-on mounting foot system. The mounting feet were integrated into the side rails on the older racks, which made alignment a bit tricky. With this new setup, the feet bolt on independently, making it easier to get everything dialed in before locking it down. These mounting feet also help distribute the load more evenly across the factory roof channels, which is huge when you plan to mount heavier gear like a rooftop tent or water jugs.
For Tacomas specifically, the rack installs using the existing factory mounting points, so no drilling was required. Everything lined up exactly as it should, and Prinsu’s instructions were clear enough that I didn’t have to second-guess any steps. I used a bit of blue Loctite on the hardware for peace of mind, and once it was all assembled, the rack sat perfectly flush and tight on the roof.
Design Features & Improvements
There’s a lot to like about this updated design. The most obvious improvement is the structural integrity. The reinforced side rails and stronger crossbars make the entire rack feel more solid than any modular rack I’ve used before. According to Prinsu, the new crossbars are 44% stronger than the previous generation, and I believe it. There’s no noticeable flex, even when I put my full body weight on the center of a bar during the install.
The side rails also add a lot of versatility with their new accessory mounting slots. Instead of using separate brackets or bolting into the top of the rack, you can now attach gear like traction boards, RotopaX, or awnings directly into the pre-machined slots. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference for anyone who wants to customize their setup.
Another welcome change is the hardware. Prinsu includes stainless steel hardware standard with the Pro, which means no more rusted bolts after a few muddy trail runs. The overall finish on all components is clean and consistent, with a matte black powder coat that matches the truck’s trim nicely. Even fully installed, the rack keeps a relatively low profile, adding only about three and a half inches of height to the roofline.
Initial Impressions
After installing the rack, I drove around for a few days, and I’m really happy with how it performs so far. Wind noise has been minimal, even at highway speeds. That’s likely thanks to the included wind fairing, which helps reduce drag and keeps things quiet in the cab. The rack feels rock solid, with no rattles or movement, and the crossbars offer plenty of room to mount the gear I typically carry.
I’ve already begun test-fitting my rooftop tent and awning, and the new drop-in slots make mounting much easier. I didn’t have to remove a crossbar or slide t-nuts in from the end—just drop them in where needed and tighten down. It’s a much more efficient system, especially for someone who frequently reconfigures gear depending on the trip.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’m really impressed with the Prinsu Pro roof rack. It’s more than just a stronger version of the original—it’s a smarter, better-designed system that feels purpose-built for overlanders and off-roaders. The improvements in mounting flexibility, build quality, and hardware are immediately noticeable. Plus, the fact that it installs cleanly using factory mounts makes it an easy recommendation for Tacoma owners.
If you’re looking to upgrade your roof rack or start a fresh build, the Prinsu Pro is absolutely worth considering. It’s built to handle real use, looks great on the truck, and allows you to set it up exactly how you need it.
