Prinsu was the first to introduce the CNC laser-cut roof rack, revolutionizing the rack manufacturing industry. I remember when the brand was first launched on Instagram/forums over 10 years ago, and it quickly gained popularity. A few years later, Prinsu was acquired by CBI, and the rest is history.
The original design was functional, beautiful, and adopted by many, but there were areas to improve, including the side rails and crossbars for those who needed more strength. Although it took over 9 years to make something new, Prinsu finally responded with the Pro model.
Let’s compare the original design and the Pro model side by side, so you can decide which rack is best for your 4Runner.
If you’re undecided between the original design or the Pro rack, this post will help you quickly determine which model is best suited for your needs.
Find it Online:Â
- The Original: Check Price
- The Pro: Check Price
Table Of Contents
Key Differences
While both racks share the same design ethos, they primarily differ in strength and accessory mounting points.
Both racks feature aluminum side rails, 10 crossbars (including the fairing), and wind deflectors. However, the Prinsu Pro introduces a key component that sets it apart; strength.
The original rack is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who need a rack for lightweight essentials such as light bars, chase lights, scene lights, grab handles, recovery boards, light storage boxes, and sub-100lb rooftop tents (RTTs). With nine (9) primary crossbars and four (4) drop-in mounting points, the rack can handle just about any mounting configuration you need.
The Pro, however, is ideal for those looking to mount heavier rooftop tents, and heavy storage boxes packed with gear – all while minimizing movement under load. The new Pro features 44% stronger re-engineered crossbars with six (6) drop-in mounting points – twice as strong as the original Prinsu. With the added strength, the Pro will handle heavier loads with less chance of rattle/movement. Finally, Pro gives you a redesigned side rail with a 90-degree bend on top, offering even more mounting points.
It’s simple—the Prinsu Pro is designed to handle more weight and allows for a wider variety of accessory mounting configurations.
The Original
The original Prinsu rack is reliable, affordable, and capable. It will handle most tasks you throw at it. It’s been proven to be one of the top racks on the market in its price range for over a decade now.
The rack features laser-cut aluminum side rails that mount directly to nine (9) 2×1″ T-slot aluminum crossbars, with a front-mounted wind deflector for added rigidity. Built to handle a decent amount of weight, it supports over 600 lbs. static and 1000 lbs. dynamic. For a custom look, optional color-matched side panels are available – something you won’t find on the new Pro.
If you need to mount accessories like a lightweight rooftop tent, MAXTRAX, RotopaX, shovels, and more – all without overspending, the original Prinsu rack is a solid, budget-friendly option.
If you plan on heavier items like HiLift Jacks, 200+ lb. RTTs, KC Pro6 Light bars, ROAM boxes loaded with heavy gear – look at the Pro.
The Newer Pro
The Prinsu Pro maintains the same look and feel as the original, but with several key upgrades. It features all-new 2×1″ redesigned crossbars that are stronger, as well as double side plates with a 90-degree bend at the top.
The 90-degree bend on the side rails includes long slotted cutouts down the length of the rails, allowing you to bolt accessories and dial-in fitment to the outer part of the rack without the need for t-nuts in the crossbars.
With the Pro rack, you have more options for mounting accessories to the top side even when you have an RTT mounted.
Pro Features
Let’s quickly run through some more highlights.
Updated Side Rails
The new rails feature a two-piece design, increasing strength while adding a new look to the unit.
The outer rail provides new and updated pre-drilled slots along the entire length of the rack, allowing you to add accessories to the side rails, something the original model lacked. You can see in the photo above, these slots are great for Ridgeline handles, or any of the other roof rack grab handles that Prinsu offers.
With all new drilled and slotted holes in the side profiles, you can get more creative with how you mount gear to the side of the rack.
Redesigned Crossbars
While the original 2×1 aluminum crossbars were functional, the Prinsu Pro’s redesigned crossbars are larger, making them ideal for heavier loads. Instead of being flat on the top and the bottom, the pro has a beveled portion on one side with gussets throughout the length of the crossbar.
I purposely mounted the rear crossbar with the beveled side out so you guys can see what it looks like, but for the most functionality and rear-facing accessories, you would want to flip the rear crossbar in the opposite direction.
The new design also introduces two additional drop points in the center of the rack, making it a total of six over the old four, offering more mounting flexibility. This is especially useful if you’re trying to mount accessories while navigating existing gear on the rack.
Bolt-On Mounting Feet
The bolt-on mounting feet make installation easier and improve the overall strength and stability of the rack.
Unlike the previous model’s bent feet integrated into the side rails, the bolt-on design helps distribute the load more efficiently, making the Pro model better suited for carrying heavier items.
Stainless Steel Hardware
Prinsu Pro comes equipped with black stainless-steel hardware, which is corrosion-resistant and durable, making it ideal for tough conditions.
Gone are the days of rusted bolts – this upgrade ensures a long-lasting refined look in harsh environments.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a roof rack that’s packed with accessory mounting features and designed for heavy-duty use, the latest Pro model is likely your best choice.
However, if you’re after a reliable, cost-effective option that still delivers on performance, the original remains an excellent option.
Ultimately, both racks are great choices, but the Pro offers upgraded features for those looking for enhanced strength and a ton of accessory mounting options.
