B2 vs B2B Pop Top Roofs for VW T5–6.1 (SWB & LWB): Complete Comparison Guide
Summary: The Stealth B2 is our lowest‑profile pop‑top roof available for VW Transporters T5-6.1 LWB & SWB, ideal for maximum stealth. The Stealth B2B is slightly taller but easier to close, more practical day‑to‑day, and more cost‑effective. This guide compares profile, usability, mattress space, installation and pricing to help you choose the right roof for your campervan conversion.
If you’re choosing a pop‑top roof for your VW Transporter or campervan conversion, one of the most common questions is the difference between the Stealth B2 and the Stealth B2B. Both roofs look similar, low‑profile, discreet and designed for stealth camping, but they’re built for different priorities. Once you start using your van daily, those differences matter.
This guide breaks everything down clearly, based on how each roof is designed and how it performs in real‑world use.
1. Profile & Stealth Look
B2, the lowest profile roof
If your number one priority is staying as low and invisible as possible, the B2 is the one. It’s the lowest‑profile roof we offer and the most discreet when closed, ideal for stealth camping and keeping your Transporter looking OEM.
B2B, still stealth, but more practical
The B2B is only slightly taller, still very low, still very stealth, but engineered to reduce compromises and improve everyday usability.
If you want the absolute lowest profile: choose the B2. If you want low profile plus convenience: choose the B2B.
2. Closing & Daily Usability
This is where the B2B really moves things forward.
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- Two rear bolts to close
- Two front key‑operated fasteners
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- Two front key‑operated fasteners
- One single T‑handle latch at the back
- Much quicker and easier to close
- Additional pair of automatic latches engage when you shut the roof
- Designed to be more “everyday friendly”
If you open and close your pop‑top regularly, the B2B feels noticeably easier and faster.
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3. Hinge & Mechanism Design Both roofs use our patented operating mechanism with no bulky scissor hinges. The B2B features an updated hinge layout, which removes the smaller rear strut seen on the B2. This design change is what allows the B2B to close more smoothly and work with the single rear T‑handle and automatic slam latches.
4. Mattress Space & Bed Comfort
B2-
- Limited space between the bed board and the roof when closed
- Mattress thickness capped at around 30mm
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- More internal clearance when closed
- Can leave a thicker 50mm mattress in place
- Optional Froli‑style spring system available with the B2B mattress
If sleeping comfort matters, the B2B gives you more flexibility and a better night’s sleep.
5. Manufacturing & Cost Differences
The B2B isn’t cheaper because it’s “lesser”. It’s cheaper because it was engineered to be:
- faster to install
- more efficient to manufacture
- less labour‑intensive
That labour saving is passed directly to the customer.
Typical Pricing
B2 Prices start from £5795 for the SWB model, fully fitted and including the bi‑fold bed‑board.
B2B Prices start from £4995 for the SWB model, fully fitted and including the bi‑fold bed‑board.
| Feature | B2 | B2B |
| Model | VW T5-6.1 LWB & SWB | VW T5-6.1 LWB & SWB |
| Profile height | Lowest possible profile | Slightly taller but still stealth |
| Closing system | 2 rear bolts + 2 front key fasteners | 2 front key fasteners + single rear T‑handle + automatic slam latches |
| Ease of closing | More manual | Much quicker and easier |
| Mattress space | Up to 30mm | Up to 50mm + optional Froli system |
| Bed board | Bi‑fold (standard) | Bi‑fold (standard) |
| Standard colours | Black & White (other colours available as optional extras) | Black & White (other colours available as optional extras) |
| Price (SWB) | From £5795 | From £4995 |
| Best for | Maximum stealth | Practical daily use + comfort |
6. Colours, Canvas & Options
- Both roofs come in Black or White as standard, with all other colours available as additional extras
- Scenic and coloured canvas options available
- Works with a wide range of campervan interior layouts
7. Awning Rails & Extras
Both roofs work perfectly with:
- Multirail awning rails
- Wind‑out awnings (e.g., Fiamma F45), best fitted by us as brackets may need slight modification
- Roof bars & solar panels can be added as optional extras
Tell us the awning you prefer, and we’ll give you an accurate cost.
8. Installation & Lead Time
We normally ask for the van for a full working week. Our team works on multiple vans at once, ensuring your pop‑top installation is completed cleanly and correctly. But check with the team, they can often turn around straight forward installations, especially with B2B roofs in less time.
9. Want to See Them in Person?
Call the team on 01625 707401, or read more on the website:
Which Roof Should You Choose?
Choose the B2 if you want:
- the lowest possible profile
- maximum stealth
- the classic bolt‑closure system
- a proven, original design
Choose the B2B if you want:
- easier closing
- additional automatic slam latches
- more mattress space
- optional Froli system
- lower overall cost
- a more practical, everyday‑friendly roof
Both roofs are excellent, the B2 is the original stealth roof, and the B2B is the evolution that removes compromises while staying discreet.
Both roofs are proven, reliable and designed specifically for VW Transporters. The right choice depends on whether you prioritise maximum stealth (B2) or everyday usability and comfort (B2B). If you’d like advice based on your van, layout or usage, our team can help you choose the best option.
FAQ: VW T5-6.1 LWB & SWB Stealth B2 vs Stealth B2B Pop‑Top Roofs
Is the B2 the lowest‑profile pop‑top roof for VW T5-6.1 Transporters?
Yes. The Stealth B2 is the lowest‑profile roof we offer and is designed specifically for maximum stealth, and an OEM look when closed.
How much taller is the B2B compared to the B2?
Only slightly. The B2B remains very low‑profile and discreet, but its design prioritises easier closing and improved practicality.
Which roof is easier to open and close?
The B2B. It uses a single rear T‑handle latch plus automatic slam latches, making it much quicker and more user‑friendly.
Can I leave the mattress in place when the roof is closed?
Yes, but the thickness depends on the roof type.
- B2: Up to 30mm
- B2B: Up to 50mm, plus optional Froli‑style spring system
Do both roofs come with a bed board?
Yes. Both the B2 and B2B include a bi‑fold bed board as standard.
What colours are available?
Both roofs come in Black or White as standard, with all other colours available as optional extras. Scenic and coloured canvas options are also available.
Are the roofs compatible with awnings?
Yes. Both roofs work with multirail awning rails and wind‑out awnings such as the Fiamma F45.
Can I add roof bars or solar panels?
Yes, both roofs can accept roof bars and solar panels as optional extras.
How long does installation take?
We normally ask for the van for a full working week to ensure a clean, correct installation. But check with the team, they can often turn around straight forward installations, especially with B2B roofs in less time.
Which roof is best for daily use?
The B2B. It’s designed to be more practical, easier to close, and more comfortable thanks to increased mattress space.
Which roof is best for maximum stealth?
The B2. It’s the lowest‑profile option and the most discreet when closed.
