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Last updated 2/07/2025 - Originally published 2/07/2025
Written by SimpleTire, Expertly reviewed by Brett Antosh
Thunderer and Starfire are two popular tire manufacturers known for their versatile range of affordable tires catering to the drivers of passenger and commercial vehicles. Thunderer Tires is a Thailan-based tire manufacturer and an associate brand from the Deestone family that offers tires engineered specifically for the North American market. On the other hand, Starfire is an associate brand from Cooper and focuses on durability and performance without compromising affordability. Both brands offer a range of all-terrain, all-season, all-weather, winter, and tires in other categories.
Thunderer and Starfire offer various high-quality tires and give drivers several options to choose from. Today, we will be comparing these two leading tires from the brands — Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 and Starfire Solarus AP. Both tires are designed for use on Jeeps, SUVs, and light trucks and are optimized to deliver superior performance when driving on challenging terrains. We will be discussing the similarities and differences between these two tires in this Ranger A/T R404 vs Solarus AP tires comparison.
Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 tires
The Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 is an all-terrain tire designed for use on light trucks and features an aggressive tread pattern to deliver solid off-road traction. You can also see a durable tread formulation paired with a 55,000 miles limited manufacturer tread life warranty and a rim guard with reinforced sidewall for improved durability.
Delivering solid performance in all avenues, the Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 received a solid average SimpleScore of 7.8 out of 10.
Get Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Starfire Solarus AP tires
The Starfire Solarus AP is an all-terrain light truck tire that delivers strong traction on paved and unpaved roads with an extended tread life. This tire features large, sharp-angled tread blocks, wide grooves, and various other tire elements, empowering it to deliver solid performance. The Solarus AP is also backed by a 50,000 miles limited manufacturer tread life warranty.
Delivering good performance in traction, handling, and longevity, the Starfire Solarus AP scored an average SimpleScore of 7.7 out of 10.
Get Starfire Solarus AP tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 vs Starfire Solarus AP tires on traction
Traction plays a vital role in the performance of a tire, influencing its ability to maintain grip on various roads. On wet roads where slipperiness can become an issue, having a dependable tire becomes vital to prevent hydroplaning incidents and ensure shorter braking distances. The level of traction a tire can deliver is influenced by its design, rubber composition, and tread pattern.
In traction, the Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 scored a solid 7.6 SimpleScore as the tire features an aggressive tread pattern that boosts wet and dry traction on- and off-road. Additionally, the broad shoulder helps maintain a solid grip on challenging terrains, resulting in solid traction performance.
The Starfire Solarus AP received a good 7.5 SimpleScore in traction as the tire features large, sharp-angled tread blocks that bite into the road for a solid grip. Additionally, the wide grooves within the tread reduce the risk of hydroplaning, while full-depth sipes create additional biting edges for improved winter traction.
While both tires deliver reliable performance on paved and unpaved roads, the Ranger A/T R404 received slightly better SimpleScore and leads here.
ADVANTAGE: Thunderer Ranger A/T R404
Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 vs Starfire Solarus AP tires on handling
Although traction is a key consideration in selecting the appropriate tires for your vehicle, handling is equally important as it ensures smooth and confident lane changes. The handling characteristics of a tire are typically influenced by multiple factors which should be assessed before making a final choice.
The Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 received 7.8 in handling as the aggressive tread pattern improves surface contact for a solid grip. Additionally, the rim guard, reinforced sidewall, and durable rubber compound ensure that the tire retains its optimal shape, boosting control on paved and unpaved roads.
You can see a solid score of 7.7 in handling for the Starfire Solarus AP, thanks to its symmetrical tread pattern. It helps in boosting road contact and maneuvering performance on paved and unpaved roads.
Again, in handling, we see the Starfire Solarus AP a step behind the Ranger A/T R404.
ADVANTAGE: Thunderer Ranger A/T R404
Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 vs Starfire Solarus AP tires on longevity
Longevity is a significant aspect to consider when evaluating tires, as it directly impacts how long a tire can maintain its traction and handling capabilities over time. It's essential to examine the mileage warranty offered with tires, as this warranty is influenced by factors such as the type of rubber used, tread design, and tire construction.
In longevity, the Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 received a great 8.0 SimpleScore as the tire features a durable rubber compound that protects the tire against cuts, chips, abrasions, and uneven tread wear for better longevity. You can also get a limited manufacturer tread life warranty of 55,000 miles.
The Starfire Solarus AP truly excels in longevity with a great 8.2 score. As the tire is built with a unique rubber compound that resists uneven tread wear, the Starfire Solarus AP will last for a longer period. You also see a mileage warranty of 50,000 for the Solarus AP, rounding off the performance perfectly.
The Starfire Solarus AP takes the win here with a better SimpleScore. However, the Thunderer is not far behind with a better mileage warranty of 55,000 miles vs 50,000 miles of Solarus AP.
ADVANTAGE: Starfire Solarus AP
When to use each
Both the Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 and Starfire Solarus AP are all-terrain tires intended to be used on- and off-road. These tires will deliver responsive handling, confident traction, and a long tread life. Additionally, these tires can deliver great performance in light winter weather conditions.
However, neither tire is Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified and should not be used in moderate to severe winter weather conditions. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, winter tires could be a more suitable option. Conclusively, both tires are durable and offer consistent and strong traction, and handling performance.
Which one should you choose?
So, which all-terrain tire might be the better choice for you? Well, the answer depends solely on your personal preference. As stated earlier, both Ranger A/T R404 and Solarus AP offer solid performance on paved and unpaved roads. However, there are key differences that can help you make a decision. The Thunderer tire scored higher in traction and handling and also offers a better mileage warranty. Conversely, the Starfire Solarus AP also delivers solid performance in longevity and is optimized for light winter weather.
Another important thing to consider is the price. You can get a set of four Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 at $419.96 which is $104.99 per tire for a particular size. On the other hand, the Starfire Solarus AP costs $491.96 for a set of four and $122.99 per tire for the tire size 235/70R16.
(Note - Prices may vary depending on the tire size.)
Based on SimpleScore, you should choose the Thunderer Ranger A/T R404 if you:
- Driver a vehicle like Jeep Grand Cherokee or GMC Canyon
- Want a tire that has better traction (7.6 vs 7.5) and handling (7.8 vs 7.7)
- Want a better mileage warranty (55,000 vs 50,000 miles)
- Want a more affordable set of tires that offer better traction and handling
Based on SimpleScore, you should choose the Starfire Solarus AP if you:
- Driver a truck like Chevrolet Silverado 2500 or Nissan Titan XD
- Want a tire that offers better longevity (8.2 vs 8.0)
- Are willing to pay more for a long-lasting set of tires
Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.