CTA Stealth Step vs. AMP Power Step: The Ultimate Power Running Board Showdown

TL;DR: Chandler Truck Accessories Stealth Step Power Running Boards offer clear competition to AMP Research's Power Step lineup. With a clean factory look, comparable performance and functionality, at a better value proposition - making Stealth Steps the better choice overall for most truck owners looking to add power running boards to thier vehicle without breaking the bank.

When it comes to upgrading your truck with a set of power running boards, two brands likely stand out as top contenders: Chandler Truck Accessories new Stealth Step Power Running Boards and Amp Research with their legacy line of PowerStep Running Boards. Both are designed to offer convenience, durability, and enhanced functionality, but which one truly stands out for truck owners? In this post, we’ll deep dive into the features of both models and explore why CTA’s Stealth Step Power Running Boards might just be the superior choice for your truck.

Overview of Power Running Boards

Before diving into the specifics, let’s breifly look at what power running boards do and why they’re a game-changer for truck owners. Power running boards are retractable side steps that deploy automatically when you open the door of your truck and retract back into place when the door is closed. They not only provide a practical solution for easier cab access but also add sleek, modern functionality and aesthetic to your truck. The key features that define the best power running boards include:

• Automatic deployment and retraction

• Material durability and weather resistance

• Ease of installation

• Clean, low-profile design

CTA Stealth Step: Sleek, Durable, and Reliable

Chandler Truck Accessories’ Stealth Step Power Running Boards stand out in several key areas, particularly when it comes to value. Here’s why the new Stealth Step form CTA is considered one of the best in its class:

Clean, Factory Look with a Premium Feel

The Stealth Step is engineered to maintain a clean and streamlined appearance, staying flush with the truck’s rocker panels when retracted. Unlike some power running boards on the market that protrude noticeably, the Stealth Step offers a much more discreet look. This makes it a great choice for truck owners who prefer a more factory-like, low-profile aesthetic without sacrificing the added functionality that power running boards offer; they look like a natural extension of your truck.

Heavy-Duty Lightweight Aluminum

Constructed from high-quality aluminum, the Stealth Step is built to withstand heavy use, adverse weather conditions, and the demands of jobsite conditions while not weighing your truck down. The aluminum construction also makes it corrosion-resistant and the premium powder coat finish ensures long-term durability, even in harsh climates where salt and moisture are a concern. The Stealth Step can handle up to 600 pounds of static load, making it an excellent option for both personal trucks with frequent multiple passengers and work vehicles that may involve lifting heavy loads into the cab.

Sealed Motor Technology

One of the standout features of the Stealth Step is its sensor-driven sealed motor technology. The Stealth Step running boards are powered by a high-torque weather-sealed motor that guarantees smooth, reliable deployment and retraction every time you open or close your door. Whether you’re stepping into your truck in the dead of summer or during a snowy winter storm, the Stealth Step will continue to perform day-in and day-out.

Custom Fit and Easy Installation

Chandler Truck Accessories offers a variety of Stealth Step custom designed mounting options for a variety of different truck makes and models, ensuring seamless installation and a custom fit. Installation is designed to be as straightforward as possible, with an included wiring harness system that still leaves access to your vehicle’s OBD-II functionality. This ease of installation is one of the reasons why customers love the CTA Stealth Steps – they’re the perfect combination of professional-grade quality and user-friendly design.

Smooth Operation with LED Lights

The Stealth Step comes standard with LED lighting, which illuminates the step area at night, adding an extra level of safety and convenience. Whether you’re parking in a dimly lit garage or navigating a poorly lit jobsite parking lot, the LED lights make it easy to see when the step’s deployed and help ensure a solid footing when you’re climbing into the cab.

Value Proposition

Price is always a factor when you’re looking to upgrade your truck, and likely the biggest strength the CTA Stealth Steps hold is their value proposition for full-size truck owners. The Stealth Step offers all the convenience, dependability, and ease-of-use at a fraction of the cost of the “leading competitor.” And you can put the money you save toward other truck accessories!

Amp Power Step: A Legacy Competitor

Now, let’s take a look at the Amp Power Step Running Boards. Amp Research is a well-known brand in the power running board market, and their PowerStep has earned a solid reputation for its quality and functionality. Here’s how the PowerStep stacks up:

More Bulky, Less Streamlined

While the PowerStep offers automatic deployment like the Stealth Step, it’s important to note that some versions tend to stick out more when retracted. The design of some of the PowerStep XL and Xtreme models, for instance, are physically bulkier - making them more noticeable even when the running boards are not in use and are definitely more visible from the side, which some truck owners may not prefer. For those looking for a sleek, low-profile integrated look, this might be a deal-breaker. 

Durability is a Draw

The PowerStep is built from high-strength aluminum and is designed to handle tough conditions similar to the Stealth Step. Users in coastal areas or regions with heavily salted roads will appreciate the performance of either brand, and both are backed by 5-year warranties.

Performance and Functionality

The PowerStep uses a similar motorized mechanisms for deployment and retraction, but - depending on model - the process can be a bit slower compared to the Stealth Step. While it’s certainly functional, some users have reported occasional delays in the step’s retraction, especially in colder weather. Nevertheless, you'll find both options offer a viable power running board solution for your truck.

Installation and Fitment

Installing the PowerStep can be a bit more challenging depending on the model and complexity. While it comes with detailed instructions, it may require additional wiring work or more customization to achieve the perfect function for your truck. Some users find the installation process a bit tedious and time-consuming. While PowerStep does offer a Plug-N-Play version (at a higher cost) that makes installation easier and a bit more seamless, this blocks access to your vehicle’s OBD-II reader without the additional/seperate purchase of a passthrough harness.

Why CTA’s Stealth Step is the Clear Winner

While the Amp PowerStep is still a solid option, the CTA Stealth Step Power Running Boards offer several advantages that make them the superior choice:

• Clean, Factory look: The Stealth Step has a streamlined, low-profile look that blends seamlessly with your truck’s factory body lines.

• Superior durability: With its premium finish and heavy-duty aluminum construction, the Stealth Step is built to last through the toughest conditions.

• Quiet and smooth operation: The Stealth Step offers quiet, smooth deployment and retraction, even in extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

• Easy installation: The wiring system and clear installation instructions make installation straightforward, saving time while also maintaining OBD-II port access and utility without the need to purchase additional harnesses.

• Integrated LED lighting: For enhanced visibility and safety at night, the Stealth Step offers premium LED lighting that comes standard.

• Better Value: CTA’s Stealth Step offers comparable utility and functionality, at a much more consumer-friendly price point.

If you're looking for an affordable, high-performance, sleek, and dependable set of power running boards for your truck, the Stealth Step by Chandler Truck Accessories is an easy winner. The combination of style, functionality, and ease-of-use makes it the best choice for truck owners who want both form and function without breaking the bank.

Ready to upgrade your truck? Check out the Stealth Step Power Running Boards at Chandler Truck Accessories and experience the ultimate in cab access, convenience, and style.