Michelin vs. Dunlop Tires: A Detailed Comparison

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Before buying a car, I didn’t think car owners faced such difficulty deciding which tire company to buy from. Reading the reviews helps, but most companies are new in the industry.

As such, it becomes hard to trust their quality. On our recent quest for car tires, I came across many brands, but it came down to Michelin and Dunlop.

With that, the next question became; is Michelin better than Dunlop or vice versa?

You might consider Dunlop better than Michelin and vice versa depending on your favourite features on the tires. Dunlop started in Dublin, while Michelin was founded in France. With time, these tire brands have made their way into the international market, earning a top spot in the car, bicycle, and motorcycle owners’ hearts.

Deciding which tire to go for depends on what you need the tire to do. Tire brands perform differently, especially where durability is concerned. The cost also differs, and ultimately, you’ll likely settle for the tire brand that you think will give you the most back for the buck. We evaluated Dunlop and Michelin based on many factors before purchasing.

So, keep reading to discover the differences between the two brands and why one is better, depending on your car’s needs.

Michelin vs. Dunlop Brand History

There are several brands today in the market that can produce reliable tires. However, none has built a reputation lasting over a century and a half like Michelin and Dunlop.

Dunlop started in 1888 when John Boyd ingeniously invented the pneumatic tire in Dublin. The brand has a long history of performance and success, even before it was acquired by Goodyear for the USA, European and Australian markets.

Alternatively, Michelin is another seasoned tire company whose origins trace back to 1888 in France. The brand has made its way to the top of the tire market to be the second biggest tire brand locally.

Looking at the two origin stories, it is clear both brands have a solid footprint in the industry. Now it is time to look at what these tires offer the daily driver,

Are Michelin Tires Better Than Dunlop?

Car owners that consider affordability and performance prefer Dunlop tires. However, Michelin tires are also high-performance but comes wih a higher price.

Michelin is a French brand currently considered the world’s second-largest tire manufacturer. Michelin’s reputation is enough testimony that car owners should invest in the brand. Currently, the brand works with Porsche, Mercedes Benz, and Ferrari as their supplier. 

To some degree, Michelin tires are better than Dunlop tires because they have harder rubber which is better for longevity and multi-use. Moreover, these tires start with a 9 mm thread, which lasts long for most driving situations. Alternatively, Dunlop tires are softer, starting at 8 mm, and are good for braking and improving traction on the road.

In addition, Michelin actively participates in Formula 1, Rally Racing, MotoGP, and other notable motorsports. But are Michelin tires worth the investment for ordinary car owners?

From our research, Michelin tires offer the following to car owners:

• Safety
• Durability
• Optimal performance 

Thanks to its many innovations, Michelin has developed technologies such as the regenerative EverGrip and Zero Pressure. These innovations make driving safer despite the weather and help you with punctures.

Michelin’s tire catalog has 5th-generation green tires to reduce carbon emissions and improve fuel economy. This feature makes the brand popular among its customers since the tires are environmentally friendly.

Advantages of Michelin Tires

• Many tires categories and types available for all vehicles
• Innovative fuel efficiency and environment-friendly technology for smooth rides
• Highly advanced wet and dry traction and control
• Warranties cover flat-tire roadside assistance
• Multi-season tire selections
• Adaptable for daily driving and touring, including off-road adventures

Disadvantages of Michelin Tires

• Michelin wheels are some of the most expensive on the market.
• Off-road tires sometimes skid and reduce traction in off-road environments.

Related reading:

• Michelin Tires Review: A Complete Breakdown

Is Dunlop a Good Brand for Tires?

Dunlop has a wide variety of tires that are affordable and high-quality. So, every car owner on a budget gets high-quality tires at excellent prices. Still, the brand has a collection of premium tires that cost more. These tires are higher performance and offer higher and safer speeds.

Dunlop is also popular in the tire industry for its participation in motorsport racing. Since the brand focuses on performance, every tire offers maximum control and confidence to drivers.

The tires are well-known for:

• Stability
• Long tire life
• Puncture protection
• Increased fuel efficiency
• Reduced resistance to rolling 

Advantages of Dunlop Tires

• Have a wide range of affordable tire options
• Deliver quality results for different driving conditions
• Great for cruising and commuting with proper grip and tread
• Smooth tires ensure a comfortable ride for performance cars or bikes

Disadvantages of Dunlop Tires

• The soft rubber may not do well when driving for extended miles

Michelin Vs. Dunlop: What to Expect

To determine which is better, we had to look at different factors. Both brands have their weaknesses and strengths when it comes down to performance and durability. Therefore, comparing the two based on these parameters made it easier:

Performance

Michelin and Dunlop’s tires are available for cars and motorcycles. The manufacturer designs them to perform well on ordinary roads and racing tracks. Although Michelin’s motorcycle range is limited, its tires have excellent traction and are perfect when turning corners. The tires also shake off water easily if the ground is wet.

Dunlop’s tires are not bad, either. The tires have technologies such as multi-radius tread technology. This innovation helps with cornering and keeps drivers safe in tricky situations and at high speeds.

Durability and Mileage

Both companies have different formulas for designing tires. Dunlop, in particular, uses softer compounds in its tires compared to Michelin. This soft compound helps Dunlop’s tires to maneuver corners better.

The downside is that the softness makes Dunlop’s tires less durable. Michelin’s tires have a tougher compound, making them tougher and more durable. So, Michelin tires would work best if you plan on using your car or motorcycle on rough terrain.

Market Availability

Although Dunlop and Michelin started manufacturing their tires in Dublin and France consecutively, they are now available worldwide. Dunlop was previously British-owned. However, it is now under Goodyear and available in more regions than the United States, Asia, and India.

Tire Technology

Michelin has been at the forefront of introducing new technology to tire designs, which could give Dunlop a run for their money. However, Dunlop also offers some high-end technology that allows drivers to enjoy a quality drive. Some of the technological differences include;

Michelin

• RFID technology for tracking tires and their lifecycle
• Regenion technology that allows tires to self-regenerate
• Powercoil technology improves resistance to damage and distortion by reducing rolling resistance and fuel consumption.

Dunlop

Dunlop has developed several tire designs and technological features which have improved overall performance. These technologies include;

• Noise shield technology to improve road noise reduction.
• Specific bead seat system for precise control.
• Multi-blade tire treading for superior performance during winter.
• Hybrid overlay technology improves stability during high speeds and for the uniform wearing of the tires.
• Dual silica tread compound for dependable traction and improved handling.

Noise

Some drivers and racers prefer quiet tires, while others are unbothered. If the latter is the case, go for Michelin tires. Since the manufacturers make Dunlop tires using softer compounds, they offer a quiet and smooth ride.

The tougher compound in Michelin tires makes them noisier, but the Michelin Acoustic Technology reduces internal tire noise by 20%. This technology makes Michelin tires a worthy competitor against Dunlop regarding noise.

Tire Warranty

Both tire brands are very generous about their product warranties and guarantees. However, Michelin beats Dunlop hands down because they offer a 60-day money-back guarantee when a user is unsatisfied with the product. This package also includes 3-year roadside assistance for tire failure. In addition, Michelin’s standard warranty lasts 6 years from the purchase, provided the driver adheres to proper tire care.

Conversely, Dunlop only offers warranties for 24 months or 24,000 miles. Whatever option comes first depends on the tire usage following the manufacturer’s guidelines. This may sound great for most drivers but Michelin having a 48-month advantage is more promising.

Pricing

Dunlop tires are more cost-friendly. Most car owners buy these tires because the lowest price is approximately $46. On the other hand, Michelin starts its prices at about $156.

Still, Dunlop has a category of premium-priced tires if you want special features in your tires for an extra cost.

Below is a summary of the differences between Michelin and Dunlop tires:

Feature	Dunlop	Michelin
Performance	High-performance	Optimal performance
Durability	Wears out faster	Long-lasting
Availability	Available worldwide	Available worldwide
Noise	Smoother and less noisy	Noisy
Pricing	Cheaper	More expensive

Factors to Consider Before Buying Michelin or Dunlop Tires

We walked through many stores to find the car’s best tires. However, a few questions kept popping up, which helped us make the final decision. When buying car or motorcycle tires, consider these factors:

1. Weather Conditions

Tire manufacturers make tires with different features to tolerate different weather conditions. As a result, some tires perform well in all four seasons. However, others perform better in specific weather.

For instance, if you want to buy tires for winter, you must check the specifications. If the tires you buy cannot perform well in the snow, you compromise your safety. Stability, performance, and durability are affected by weather conditions.

2. Speed Rating

Manufacturers indicate the maximum speed every tire can withstand by assigning a letter. Therefore, buyers know how fast they should go. However, going over the set speed limits compromises the driver’s safety.

If you choose to overspeed, there’s a high chance of crashing since the tires cannot handle such speeds. Racers should choose car tires for high racing speeds for better stability and safety.

Here’s a breakdown of tire speed ratings according to the professionals:

Speed Rating	Kilometres Per Hour (Kph)	Miles Per Hour (Mph)
A1 – A8	5 – 40	3 – 25
B	50	31
C	60	37
D	65	40
E	70	43
F	80	50
G	90	56
J	100	62
K	110	68
L	120	75
M	130	81
N	140	87
P	150	94
Q	160	100
R	170	106
S	180	112
T	190	118
U	200	124
H	210	130
V	240	149
ZR or W and Y	210 – 300	168 – 186

3. Tire Size

Car manufacturers indicate the tire size to use on every vehicle. Using the wrong size endangers the driver’s life. The information is available in the owner’s manual. Some car manufacturers also indicate the tire size on the driver’s door.

4. Noise Rating

Dunlop and Michelin’s tires have different noise ratings thanks to differences in tread patterns and internal compounds. If tire noise will affect your driving experience, ask the tire manufacturer about tire specifications.

 Reading customer reviews online helps determine which tires are noisier than others.

5. Tire Quality and Aesthetic

The customer base for car and motorcycle tires is broad. Buyers must consider other tire features apart from the size. Dunlop and Michelin’s tires come in many styles and patterns. So, buyers choose the tire based on their tastes, preferences, and aesthetic appeal.

Undoubtedly, the look of the tire determines how your car looks in the end. Choosing your preferred tire is a simple way of customizing your vehicle.

Tire options are available for these looks:

• Sporty
• Modern
• Vintage
• Rugged

Car owners should remember that appearance and functionality should go hand in hand. For example, minimalistic tires have better handling. But, on the other hand, they cost more, and the treads wear out quicker.

6. Durability of Tires

Tires have different lifespans. In this case, Michelin tires last longer. However, since Dunlop tires are designed for smooth rides and greater performance, they last for shorter periods. 

Before purchasing from a tire brand, ensure the durability, performance and quality match the price.

Michelin Vs. Dunlop: The Verdict

Once you get rid of worn-out tires, you want to find the best replacement. Quality, durability, and cost are the most critical factors influencing your choice. Dunlop and Michelin tires are well-known worldwide. Thus, car owners can be certain they’re getting their money’s worth.

Still, considering weather conditions and tire size helps you choose the best tire brand. Inarguably, cars are different, and so are their owners. So before settling on Dunlop or Michelin tires, you must stick to what works for you.

FAQs

Are Michelin Tires the Best in the Market?

Michelin tires are among the best in the market due to their high quality. They also have brilliant features and innovations to improve their performance. However, Michelin tires have a few weaknesses. For instance, Michelin is not the best option if you want a noise-free tire.

Which Tire Lasts Longer Between Dunlop and Michelin?

Michelin tires last longer. They are manufactured using harder compounds than Dunlop tires. Although Dunlop’s tires are excellent for smoother drives and high performance, they wear out much faster.

What Makes Michelin Tires So Expensive?

Michelin tires have higher industrial rankings. Moreover, they are more durable and tend to have extensive warranties. However, such features make them more expensive than Dunlop and other tire brands.

Can I Rely on Dunlop Tires?

Yes, you can. Although Dunlop tires don’t last as long as Michelin tires, they are good enough for their cost. In addition, these tires focus on performance, especially while cornering at high speeds. So, they are reliable enough.