Winter tire test - comparisons. Com 2024

The best winter tires in comparison

Safely through the winter: winter tires in comparison

Winter tires are an important component for winter driving and offer better grip and traction on snow and ice compared to summer tires. They are made from harder rubber to resist freezing in low temperatures and have a deeper profile to provide better grip on slippery road surfaces. However, compared to summer tires, winter tires have less grip and traction on dry and wet roads in warmer temperatures. Choosing the right tires for each season is important for safe and reliable driving. In this article we will look at the different types of winter tires and examine their advantages and disadvantages compared to summer tires.

Illustration
Best recommendation
Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V
Price-performance winner
Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T
Winter tires CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL
Firestone Winterhawk 3 M+S winter tires
Bridgestone BLIZZAK LM005 winter tire
Winter tires Tires Winter Michelin Alpin 5
Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D MS M+S winter tires
Winter tires Semperit Master-Grip 2 SUV FR M+S
Winter tires Vredestein Snowtrac 5 M+S
Pirelli W 190 Snowcontrol 3 M+S winter tires
Model Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T Winter tires CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL Firestone Winterhawk 3 M+S winter tires Bridgestone BLIZZAK LM005 winter tire Winter tires Tires Winter Michelin Alpin 5 Dunlop SP Winter Sport 4D MS M+S winter tires Winter tires Semperit Master-Grip 2 SUV FR M+S Winter tires Vredestein Snowtrac 5 M+S Pirelli W 190 Snowcontrol 3 M+S winter tires
Details
Brand Hankook Kumho Continental Firestone Bridgestone Michelin Dunlop seperit Vredestein Pirelli
Result
The Best Suggestionstest-vergleiche.com1,5Very good!
Price-value for moneytest-vergleiche.com1,9good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,6good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,7good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,8good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com2,0good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com2,1good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com2,2good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com2,3good
TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com2,4good
tire width 225 mm 195 mm 185 mm 195 mm 155 mm 195 mm 205 mm 215 mm 195 mm 195 mm
tire cross-section 45% 65% 55% 65% 65% 65% 55% 65% 65% 65%
Rim diameter 17 inch 15 inch 15 inch 15 inch 14 inch 15 inch 16 inch 16 inch 15 inch 15 inch
other sizes 225/45R17 94H 225/45R17 91H 215/65R16 98H and others 205/60 R16 92H 175/65 R15 84T 215/60 R16 99H and others 175/65 R14 82T 195/55 R16 87H 225/45 R17 91H and others 155/80 R13 79T 165/65 R14 79T 215/60 R16 99H and others 175/65 R14 82T 165/70 R14 85T 205/60 R16 96H and others 205/55 R16 91H 225/60 R16 102V 225/45 R17 91H and more 225/50 R17 94H 245/45 R17 99H 245/50 R18 100H and others 195/55 R15 85H 205/55 R16 91T 225/45 R17 91H and others 205/55 R16 91H 165/70 R13 79T 185/60 R14 82T and more 175/65 R14 82T 185/60 R15 88T 205/55 R16 91H and others
wet handling very well great very well great very well very well very well great great very well
low tendency to aquaplaning very well great great great great great great satisfying great satisfying
dry handling very well great very well great great great great great great great
snow handling great great very well great very well very well very well very well great very well
medium volume 72 dB 70 dB 71 dB 72 dB 70 dB 68 dB 68 dB 72 dB 69 dB 71 dB
Speed ​​index Vup to 240 km/h Tup to 190 km/h Hup to 210 km/h Tup to 190 km/h Tup to 190 km/h Tup to 190 km/h Hup to 210 km/h Hup to 210 km/h Tup to 190 km/h Tup to 190 km/h
Fuel efficiency class More fuel consumption compared to a higher class E0,14 l/100km E0,14 l/100km E0,14 l/100km E0,14 l/100km Cno information E 0,14 l/100 km CO0,12L/100km E0,14 l/100km CO0,12L/100km E0,14 l/100km
wet grip class B C B C A B C C C B
load index 94 to 670 kg 91 to 615 kg 86 to 530 kg 91 to 615 mm 91 to 615 kg 91 to 615 kg 91 to 615 kg 98 to 750 kg 91 to 615 kg 91 to 615 kg
Benefits
  • very good handling
  • good safety when wet
  • balanced driving behavior
  • very good handling
  • especially quiet
  • high mileage
  • good handling
  • high mileage
  • good handling
  • good durability
  • very good handling
  • good durability
  • quite quiet
  • quite quiet
  • quiet
  • good handling
  • relatively balanced handling
  • good handling
  • good safety in snow
to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer to offer
winter tires

Winter tires at a glance

  • Winter tires are specially designed for use in low temperatures and snow. They have a special rubber compound that ensures that they don't harden in cold temperatures and thus retain their grip
  • Winter tires have a deeper tread depth than summer tires, giving them better traction on snow and ice. They are also able to displace snow and ice better and thus prevent aquaplaning.
  • In some countries it is a legal requirement that winter tires must be used in winter. This applies, for example, in countries such as Germany and Austria. It is important to find out about the applicable laws in the country you are driving in to avoid penalties.

Top product: KeyWinterreifenword on Amazon

Hankook Winter i*cept RS2 W452 XL FR - 225/45R17 94V - winter tyres
2.408 reviews
Hankook Winter i*cept RS2 W452 XL FR - 225/45R17 94V - winter tyres
  • Fuel efficiency: E
  • Wet grip: B
  • Noise emission: 72 db
  • Specific properties: M + S, 3PMSF

What are winter tires?

Winter tires are special car tires designed for use in low temperatures and on snowy or icy roads. They have a special rubber compound that prevents the tire from hardening in cold temperatures and thereby losing grip. They also have a deeper profile and larger grooves than summer tires to better clear snow and ice and improve traction. It is recommended to use winter tires in cold climates to increase road safety.

winter tires

Differences between winter tires and summer tires

Winter tires and summer tires differ in terms of their rubber compound, tread and grooves.

  • rubber compound:

Winter tires have a special rubber compound that ensures that the tire does not harden at low temperatures and thus retains its grip. Summer tires, on the other hand, have a different rubber compound that is optimized for higher temperatures and can become harder at lower temperatures.

  • Profile:

Winter tires have a deeper profile than summer tires to better remove snow and ice and improve traction. Summer tires, on the other hand, have a flatter profile to reduce rolling resistance and fuel consumption.

  • grooves:

Winter tires have larger and deeper grooves than summer tires to better remove snow and ice and improve traction. Summer tires, on the other hand, have smaller and shallower grooves to better drain water and prevent aquaplaning.

It is recommended to fit winter tires if the temperature drops permanently below 7°C. This is because winter tires work better at lower temperatures because they are made of softer rubber and are better able to adapt to road conditions.

Legal regulations for winter tires

Winter tires are a legal requirement in some countries and regions when certain weather conditions prevail. However, these regulations vary from country to country and region to region.
In Germany, for example, winter tires are mandatory from October to April if the weather conditions are appropriate, such as black ice, hard snow, slush, ice or frost. However, it is important to note that this is only a recommendation and is not always mandatory.
In Austria, winter tires are generally compulsory from November to April.
There is no general winter tire obligation in Switzerland, but it is recommended to use winter tires when the roads are snowy or icy.
In other countries like France and Italy there is no legal requirement but it is recommended to use winter tires during the winter months.
It is important to note that failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties such as fines and points in Flensburg in Germany. It is therefore advisable to always find out about the current legal regulations in the country or region before driving.

Our recommendation: Winter tires on Amazon

Kumho WinterCraft WP51 (195/65 R15 91T)
287 reviews
Kumho WinterCraft WP51 (195/65 R15 91T)
  • Fuel efficiency: E
  • Wet grip: C
  • Noise emission: 70 db
  • Specific properties: M + S, 3PMSF

Some well-known manufacturers of winter tires

Some of the main manufacturers of winter tires are Michelin, Continental and Goodyear. These companies have earned a reputation for producing quality, high-performance winter tires and are widely used in the industry. Pirelli and Dunlop are also well-known brands that produce winter tires. Nokian is a Finnish manufacturer specializing in winter tires and is known for its high quality products. BF Goodrich, Bridgestone, Yokohama and Vredestein are other well-known manufacturers that produce winter tires. However, there are many other manufacturers that produce winter tires and it is worth comparing different makes and models to make the best choice.

A good winter tire has an M+S (Mud and Snow) symbol on the sidewall and a snowflake symbol on the sidewall. A 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake) symbol means that the tire meets EU standards and is suitable for use on snowy and icy roads. It is important to pay attention to the tread depth and that the tire is not cracked or damaged.

What should I look out for when buying winter tires?

When buying winter tires you should make sure that they have sufficient tread depth to ensure safe driving on winter road conditions. It is recommended to choose tires with a minimum tread depth of 4 mm. It is important that the tire is suitable for winter conditions, that is, a rubber compound and an M+S marking or snowflake symbol on the sidewall of the tyre. Brand quality is also important and it pays to invest in quality winter tires to ensure the safety of your vehicle. Also, keep in mind that winter tires tend to be more expensive than summer tires, so compare prices and features before making a decision.

Which rubber compound is best for winter tires?

A special rubber compound is used for winter tires, which remains flexible at low temperatures and thus provides better grip on snowy and icy roads. This rubber compound often contains silica or other components that improve the tire's grip on wet and snowy surfaces. It is also important that the winter tire compound has a higher cold flexibility to ensure that the tires still provide enough grip at low temperatures.

Winter tires should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent aging and warping. It is important that tires stand upright and not stacked on top of each other to ensure even aging. It is also wise to check tires regularly and make sure they are in good condition before putting them back on.

winter tires

All-season or winter tires?

Whether you use all-season tires or winter tires depends on a number of factors, such as geographic location and usual weather conditions. All-season tires are a combination of summer and winter tires and are suitable for regions where winters are not very cold and snowy. However, in most cases they do not offer the same performance as special winter tires when it comes to grip on snow and ice. Winter tires are designed for regions with frequent and severe winter weather and offer better grip and safety on snowy and icy roads. However, there is also the option of changing tires depending on the weather conditions. It is advisable to swap summer tires for winter tires in autumn and to swap winter tires for summer tires again in spring. It is important to make your own decision as to what type of tire is best suited to your needs and circumstances. It is advisable to seek advice from experts or the manufacturer.

How expensive is a set of winter tires?

The price of a set of winter tires can vary greatly and depends on various factors such as the size of the tyre, the manufacturer, the model and the place of purchase. On average, however, you can expect prices of around 50-150 euros per tire, giving a total price of 200-600 euros for a set of winter tyres. However, there are higher quality models that can be more expensive, and there are cheaper options that may not offer the same quality. It is definitely worth comparing different offers and checking the tires for their properties and test results before making a decision.

Where is the best place to buy winter tires?

There are essentially two options when buying winter tires: buying them online or in specialist shops. Depending on your individual needs, one option may be better than the other. If you're trying out different types of tires and want expert advice before you buy, it's probably best to go to a specialty store. These shops usually have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right tire for your car and driving conditions. On the other hand, if you know exactly what type of winter tires you need and are looking for the best possible deal, it's worth taking a look at online shops. Here you can compare prices from different brands and even look out for deals that include an assembly service for added convenience. Ultimately, both options have their merits, so it's up to you to decide which option works best for your winter tire buying needs.

Our insider tip: winter tires on Amazon

CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL - 185/55/15 086H - ​​E/B/71dB - Winter tires (car)
1.261 reviews
CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL - 185/55/15 086H - ​​E/B/71dB - Winter tires (car)
  • Continental WinterContact TS 860 winter tires 185/55 R15 86H XL - Maximum safety in any winter weather for vehicles in the...
  • Premium tires from Continental combine German technology with holistic vehicle expertise for optimal control in every...
  • Suitable for vehicles such as Audi A4, BMW 3 Series or Mercedes Benz C-Class.
  • Auto Bild issue (40/2016) tested the dimension 205/55 R 16 H. Quality rating for the WinterContact TS 860: "exemplary"...
  • Scope of delivery: 1x Continental WinterContact TS 860 185/55 R15 winter tires - tires without rims (depending on the tire dimensions, the...

Our conclusion on the subject of winter tires

The topic of winter tires is of great importance for road safety. Winter tires offer significantly better grip and safety on snowy and icy roads compared to summer tires. Legal regulations in some countries and regions stipulate that winter tires must be used in winter. There are various manufacturers of winter tires that offer different models and price ranges. When buying winter tyres, you should pay attention to the rubber compound, the tread depth and the properties of the tyre. Advice from experts or manufacturers can also help with the decision. There is also the option of using all-season tyres, but in most cases these do not offer the same performance as special winter tyres.

Winter tires bestsellers on Amazon:

ServicesBestseller no. 1
Tires pneus Tourador Winter pro ts1 205 55 R16 91H TL winter tires car tires
54 reviews
Tires pneus Tourador Winter pro ts1 205 55 R16 91H TL winter tires car tires
  • Tourador WINTER PRO TS1 205/55 R16 91H winter tire GTAM T264274 without rim - The price is for a tire without rim, depending on...
  • Tire width: 205 mm | Tire cross-section: 55% | Rim width: 16 inch | Load index 91 (615 kg maximum load capacity) |...
  • Please compare the tires offered with those on your vehicle. A different size is often mounted on the vehicle than with...
  • The tires offered are from the current production, ie not older than 36 months. Tires from older productions are...
Bestseller no. 2
Nexen WINGUARD SNOW G 3 WH21 205/55R16 91H winter tyres
226 reviews
Nexen WINGUARD SNOW G 3 WH21 205/55R16 91H winter tyres
  • Fuel efficiency: E
  • Wet grip: B
  • Noise emission: 72
ServicesBestseller no. 3
Dunlop Winter Response 2 MS M+S - 195/65R15 91T - winter tyres
221 reviews
Dunlop Winter Response 2 MS M+S - 195/65R15 91T - winter tyres
  • Fuel efficiency: C
  • Wet grip: B
  • Noise emission: 67 db
  • Specific properties: M + S, 3PMSF

Which winter tire model was rated as the winner in the Test-Vergleich.com comparison?

The article was rated as very good in our comparison cut off and prevailed against the other 5 other articles listed in the comparison.

Who are the most important manufacturers of winter tire products in comparison Test-Vergleiche.com?

In our winter tire comparison, a wide variety of manufacturers are represented in order to do justice to the extensive range of winter tires and to make it easier for you to make the widest possible selection. You will find well-known manufacturers such as Hankook, Kumho, Continental , Firestone, Bridgestone, Michelin , Dunlop, seperit, Vredestein and Pirelli.

Which product had in the winter tire comparison of Test-Vergleiche.com a good price-performance ratio?

All in the winter tire comparison Test-Vergleiche.com The items presented are among the best currently on the market. As the price-performance winner, the Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T crystallized out.

What do the winter tire products cost in the Test-Vergleiche.com Comparison are presented? 

You can buy winter tire products from around €41,10. Anyone who places more value on high-quality products should expect prices of up to around €87,49.

Which products were rated in the winter tire comparison by the editors of Test-Vergleiche.com considered?

In what order did the editors of Test-Vergleiche.com the winter tire articles appraised?

We research objectively, competently and independently of industry, media & Co. In our winter tire comparison, customer experiences, our own test results and possible evaluations by Stiftung Warentest have led to this ranking: Rank 1 was given to the article Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V, followed by Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T, Winter tires CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL, Firestone Winterhawk 3 M+S winter tires and Bridgestone BLIZZAK LM005 winter tire.

What was in the winter tire comparison of Test-Vergleiche.com next to the comparison winner and the price-performance winner?

In addition to the best winter tire items and the price-performance winner, there are other, also very good products in our selection that last: Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V, Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T and Winter tires CONTINENTAL WinterContact TS 860 XL.

Gabriel
Author test-vergleiche.com

Gabriel_Autor_small-1

Updated January 13, 2024

Winter tire purchase recommendation – The comprehensive guide for technology and lifestyle products

Discover with our detailed Winter tire test & comparison the top products in a wide range of categories such as Electronics, DIY & Tools, Budget, consumer electronics, home automation, gadgets, photography, PC hardware, audio accessories, smart home technologies, fashion, Cars & Motorcycles and more. Learn how to choose the ideal product for your individual needs.

Hello, I'm Gabriel, a passionate expert and author who works at Test-Vergleiche.com & Beste-Testsieger.de for various categories such as hardware store, leisure, Drug Store, household, electronics, Home & Living, Fashion and Cars & Motorcycles was responsible. My goal is to use my extensive experience and knowledge to make it easier for you to use products from these fascinating worlds. In my comprehensive Winter tire comparison I present my top 5 favorites from these versatile categories to introduce you to a wide range of quality products.

My guides and purchase recommendations aim to make your product choice easier. An important tip: Take the opportunity to compare prices and services online to find the best offer.

I hope my buying advice makes your decision easier. Your feedback and experiences, maybe even one of your own Winter tire test, are very important to me. My portal - inspired by my work at Beste-Testsieger.de - is always open to praise, feedback and your personal experiences in these areas.

Further links and sources too winter tires

Wikipedia winter tires

Further information about our article can be found under Wikipedia, a platform of the most popular free encyclopedias on the Internet. Here you will learn a lot of interesting facts and information about our selection on the winter tires to look up.

Youtube winter tires

If you are on the YouTube video portal real and concrete information about our products winter tires search, this source of information gives you direct access to the appropriate video clips.

Amazon winter tires

On the platform of Amazon You can discover almost every product you want to buy online. So you will find this too winter tires Product on Amazon. At the same time, many more articles can be found for your search on this portal.

Ebay winter tires

Ebay is one of the world's largest online marketplaces where you can also discover our articles. Next to the winter tires from commercial traders you will also find the winter tires as used items from private sellers

Best recommendation
Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V

Winter tires Hankook 225/45R17 94V

4.1/5 - (54 reviews)
Price-performance winner
Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T

Winter tires Kumho WP51 M+S – 195/65R15 91T

4.8/5 - (46 reviews)

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3.9 / 5 - (52 votes)