Thule Omnistor 4200 vs 5200

Planning your next outdoor adventure? Thule awnings are your shelter saviour, but choosing between the Omnistor 4200 and 5200 can be tricky. The short answer? Go for the 4200 if you want lightweight simplicity, the 5200 for maximum coverage. Ready to discover which awning will transform your camping experience? Let's dive in.

Table of Contents

Feature Thule Omnistor 4200 Thule Omnistor 5200
Image Thule 4200 Awning Thule 5200 Awning
Rating ★ 85/100 - Ideal for lightweight travel enthusiasts seeking ease in set-up. ★ 88/100 - Great for adventurers needing quick set-up and all-weather durability.
Pros Lightweight design, easy installation, anti-rattling Quick set-up, all-weather fabric, broad size compatibility
Cons Limited size options, no optional LED Slightly heavier, higher price
Why Buy The perfect choice for those prioritising portability and seamless vehicle integration. An excellent option for those looking for robust build and universal mounting capabilities.
View Thule 4200 View Thule 5200

 

Thule Omnistor 4200: A Closer Look

Picture this: a perfect summer evening under your vehicle's awning. The Thule Omnistor 4200 makes such moments possible without breaking the bank or your back during setup.

Let's dive into what makes this awning tick.

Key Features of the 4200

Durability and Construction

Ever wondered how awnings handle those unexpected summer storms? The 4200's answer lies in its clever aluminium frame design. Each component works together like a well-orchestrated symphony, creating a structure that laughs in the face of bad weather.

The rust-resistant materials mean less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying the outdoors. Think of it as your vehicle's faithful companion, ready for action whenever adventure calls.

Ease of Use

Nobody wants to spend their precious holiday time wrestling with complicated equipment. The 4200 gets this right with its straightforward deployment system.

Want to set up camp quickly after a long drive? The lightweight design means one person can handle the job without breaking a sweat. The smooth operation feels like opening a well-oiled door - no struggling, no fuss.

Thule Omnistor 5200 being used by a family

Available Sizes and Colours

From compact campervans to larger vehicles, the 4200 comes in sizes ranging from 8 to 14 feet.

The colour options blend seamlessly with modern vehicle designs. Whether matching a sleek grey motorhome or complementing a classic white van, there's a shade that fits perfectly.

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Pros and Cons of the 4200

Breaking it down to the essentials:

Pros:

  • Feels light as a feather during setup

  • Installation that won't give you a headache

  • Wallet-friendly pricing

  • Perfect match for smaller vehicles

Cons:

  • Coverage might feel snug for larger groups

  • Fewer fancy features than its big brother

  • Might need extra support in strong winds

A Thule Omnistor 4200 in black on a white background


Thule Omnistor 5200: A Closer Look

Ready to step up your outdoor living game? The 5200 takes everything great about the 4200 and turns it up a notch.

Key Features of the 5200

Durability and Construction

Built like a tank but moves like a dancer - that's the 5200 in a nutshell. The reinforced frame structure handles weather conditions that would send lesser awnings packing.

Premium materials combine with clever engineering to create something truly special. Every joint, every component speaks of quality that's built to last.

Ease of Use

Despite its more robust build, the 5200 hasn't forgotten about user-friendliness. Smart design features make deployment smooth and steady.

The improved locking mechanisms click into place with satisfying precision. It's like closing the door of a luxury car - you can feel the quality in every movement.

Available Sizes and Colours

Going big? The 5200 offers lengths from 8 to 16 feet, perfect for creating generous outdoor living spaces.

The expanded colour palette lets owners match their awning perfectly with their vehicle's finish. Each shade has been selected to complement modern recreational vehicle designs.

Pros and Cons of the 5200

Time for some straight talk about what works and what doesn't:

Pros:

  • Creates a seriously spacious outdoor room

  • Stands firm when the wind picks up

  • Built tough enough to handle years of adventures

  • Comes with all the bells and whistles

Cons:

  • Requires a heartier budget

  • Needs more muscle to handle

  • Might be overkill for weekend warriors

A Thule Omnistor 5200 in silver on a white background


4200 vs 5200: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Specifications

Specs Thule Omnistor 4200 Awning Thule Omnistor 5200 Awning
Weight 17kg (2.6m model) 20% lighter than predecessors
Size Range 2.6m to 4.5m 1.92m to 5.02m
Set-up Time 5-10 minutes Under 5 minutes
Fabric Type Taut, wrinkle-free support All-weather fabric with integrated drainage
Mounting Compatibility Most motorhomes, vans, and caravans Caravans, motorhomes, and vans
Colour Options White, Anodised Grey, Anthracite Black Three sleek colours
Anti-rattling Yes Yes
Included Accessories Telescopic hand crank, installation kit Flat adapter, support legs, telescopic hand crank
Warranty Two years Two years
Mounting Type Wall-mounted Wall-mounted
Integrated Tension Arms No Yes on awnings length 4.02m+
Quick Leg Lock No Yes
Tent/LED Mounting Rail as Standard No No
Pitch Adjustment No Yes
Tent Awning Compatibility QuickFit, Residence, G3 QuickFit, Residence, G3, Panorama

 

Size and Projection

Think of the 4200 as a cosy apartment balcony and the 5200 as a sprawling garden terrace. Both provide shelter, but the 5200 gives you room to really spread out.

The extra projection depth of the 5200 means more space for outdoor furniture, cooking equipment, or simply enjoying the shade.

Mounting Type

Both awnings play nice with various vehicle types. The 4200 shines on lighter vehicles, while the 5200's robust mounting system handles larger RVs with ease.

Installation requirements differ slightly, but both systems have been engineered for secure attachment without compromising vehicle integrity.

Features and Options

The 5200 comes loaded with extras - think of it as the luxury car of awnings. LED lighting options and enhanced wind resistance systems make it a true outdoor living room.

The 4200 keeps things simpler but still delivers where it counts. It focuses on core functionality without the extra frills.

Price Comparison

Let's talk numbers: expect to pay about 20-30% more for the 5200. This price jump reflects its enhanced durability and additional features.

Think of it as choosing between a reliable mid-range laptop and a top-spec model. Both will get the job done, but one comes with extra capabilities for those who need them.

Choosing Between the 4200 and 5200

Thule Omnistor 5200 shown next to a lake

Consider Your Needs and Budget

Making the right choice comes down to honest assessment of how the awning will be used. Weekend warriors might find everything they need in the 4200's capable package.

Full-time travellers or those hosting regular outdoor gatherings might appreciate the 5200's extra features and space.

Vehicle Type and Mounting Options

Match the awning to your vehicle's size and capabilities. Smaller campervans pair naturally with the 4200's lighter build.

Larger RVs and motorhomes have the mounting capacity to handle the 5200's more substantial construction.

Desired Features and Accessories

Think about which features matter most for your outdoor lifestyle. Need maximum weather protection and space? The 5200 delivers.

Looking for reliable shelter without extra complexity? The 4200 hits the sweet spot of functionality and value.

Conclusion

Both Thule Omnistor awnings excel at transforming vehicles into proper outdoor living spaces. The 4200 offers outstanding value for those seeking quality without complexity. Its lighter weight and straightforward design make it perfect for weekend adventures and smaller vehicles.

The 5200 steps up with premium construction and extra features that serious travellers will appreciate. Yes, it costs more and weighs more, but it rewards that investment with superior space and stability.

Choose the 4200 for hassle-free weekend escapes and lighter vehicles. Go for the 5200 when maximum coverage and durability top your priority list. Either way, you're getting a piece of engineering that turns any parking spot into a perfect outdoor hangout.