What is the difference between 9h ceramic coating and 10h ceramic coating?
Quick answer: On the standard pencil hardness test (ASTM D3363), 9H is the top rating. When you see “10H” in detailing, it usually signals an enhanced protection tier—materials and chemistry engineered to outperform typical 9H ceramics in real-world durability, mar resistance, and chemical/heat tolerance.
What does “H” mean?
The “H” in 9H refers to the pencil hardness test (ASTM D3363) used in coatings. In this specific method, 9H is the highest notch and indicates strong resistance to scratching under controlled lab conditions. It does not mean a coating is scratch-proof in daily use. Poor wash technique, dry dust wiping, or aggressive contact can still mar any coating.
What does “10H” really mean?
“10H” isn’t a standard step on the classic pencil hardness scale. In modern detailing, brands often use “10H” to describe a next-gen, reinforced protection tier—formulations that go beyond typical 9H ceramics in practical metrics like micro-marring resistance, chemical/heat tolerance, water-spot resistance, and longevity. Think of it as performance beyond typical 9H ceramics, not a literal pencil grade.
Where Wavex coatings fit
Wavex Aero Glide Ceramic Coating
Advanced ceramic delivering high gloss, slick hydrophobics, and robust UV/chemical resistance when applied on a properly prepared surface—our premium 9H-class ceramic experience.
Wavex Graphene Ceramic Coating — 10H
Graphene-reinforced network designed to outperform typical 9H ceramics in toughness, micro-marring resistance, and chemical/heat handling—ideal for harsher environments and spirited use.
Wavex Graphene Ultra Ceramic Coating — “Protection Beyond 10H”
Our flagship protection system. “Beyond 10H” refers to the overall protection envelope: faster cure, extreme hydrophobics, excellent chemical/heat tolerance, and maximum mar resistance in the Wavex line when installed as directed.
Side-by-side comparison
| Attribute | Aero Glide Ceramic (9H-class) | Graphene Ceramic — 10H | Graphene Ultra — “Beyond 10H” |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection concept | Advanced ceramic | Graphene-reinforced ceramic | Next-gen graphene system |
| Gloss & slickness | High | Very high | Extreme clarity & slickness |
| Hydrophobics | Excellent | Superior | Elite (tight beading, fast sheeting) |
| Micro-marring resistance | Strong | Stronger vs 9H-class | Strongest in Wavex line |
| Chemical/heat tolerance | High | Higher | Highest |
| Water-spot resistance | Good | Better | Best |
| Durability window* | Long | Longer | Longest |
| Ideal use case | Daily drivers, show-car gloss | Harsher climates, frequent washing | Maximum protection & longevity |
*Real-world durability depends on surface prep, application, wash technique, mileage, and environment.
How to choose the right coating
- Assess your paint: If it feels rough or looks swirled, correct first. Start with Wavex One Step Polishing Compound (use XT-Cut → XT-Gloss for heavier defects).
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Pick your protection tier:
- Aero Glide Ceramic — premium 9H-class gloss & protection.
- Graphene Ceramic — 10H — tougher resistance and extended envelope.
- Graphene Ultra — “Beyond 10H” — our maximum shield & longevity.
- Maintain correctly: pH-balanced shampoos (e.g., Wavex Foam Blaster), plush microfiber towels, and no dry-wiping. Top up slickness with compatible detailers as needed.
Why prep matters more than the label
- Decontaminate: Thorough wash → Clay with lubricant (if needed).
- Correct: Wavex One Step Polishing Compound to remove haze and light defects (XT-Cut/XT-Gloss for heavier correction).
- Coat: Apply Aero Glide, Graphene 10H, or Graphene Ultra as directed and allow proper cure.
FAQ
Is 10H scratch-proof?
No. “10H” denotes an enhanced protection tier compared to typical 9H ceramics in real-world metrics. Proper wash technique still matters to avoid marring.
Will a higher “H” fix swirls?
No. Polishing fixes swirls. Coatings lock in the finish you’ve created and protect it.
Can I apply a coating without polishing?
You can, but you’ll trap defects and reduce performance. For best results, polish first with Wavex One Step (or XT-Cut/XT-Gloss as needed).
