Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 vs Uniroyal WinterExpert
- TR Score
- 9.5/10
- Owners say
- 87% · 33
- TR Score
- 7.8/10
- Owners say
- 76% · 7
In the 6 independent tests that ran both tires, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 finished ahead 6 times and the WinterExpert not once. The Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 8.5% shorter in the dry; the WinterExpert had 4% lower rolling resistance.
Data updated
Which should you buy?
Performance-focused or safety-first drivers, and owners of sporty vehicles, should pick the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5. High-mileage, budget-minded drivers prioritizing fuel economy and strong aquaplaning resistance should choose the Uniroyal WinterExpert.
Where the Pilot Alpin 5 is stronger
- Class-leading braking on dry, wet, snow and ice across tests
- Consistently precise handling and high lateral grip in dry/wet
- Low noise and high comfort; strong predicted mileage and low abrasion
Where the WinterExpert is stronger
- Excellent rolling resistance for fuel savings
- Strong curved aquaplaning resistance
- Attractive purchase price and value score
The bullet points are analysis of the shared tests and of owner reviews; the measured wins in each discipline are in the tables below. Where the two disagree, the figures are right.
Pilot Alpin 5 vs WinterExpert at a glance
| Category | Pilot Alpin 5 | Gap | WinterExpert |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared tests won6 shared tests | 6 | 0 | |
| Dry7 measurements | 7 | The Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 8.5% shorter in the dry (4 tests) | 0 |
| Wet20 measurements | 16 | The Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 4% shorter in the wet (6 tests) | 4 |
| Snow16 measurements | 15 | The Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 3.5% shorter on snow (6 tests) | 1 |
| Ice1 measurement | 1 | 0 | |
| Comfort5 measurements | 5 | The Pilot Alpin 5 was 1.4 dB quieter (4 tests) | 0 |
| Value8 measurements | 3 | The WinterExpert had 4% lower rolling resistance (3 tests) | 4 |
| Tire Reviews Scoreevery test and review we hold | 9.5/10 | The Pilot Alpin 5 by 1.7 | 7.8/10 |
| Owner rating33 and 7 reviews | 87% | The Pilot Alpin 5 by 11 points | 76% |
| Would buy againshare of owners | 84% | The Pilot Alpin 5 by 13 points | 71% |
| Pricein the 5 tests that listed prices | +36.5% | The Pilot Alpin 5 was dearer in 5 of 5 | Cheaper |
| Sizes madeEU label registrations | 81 | 28 sizes made in both | 90 |
Wins count every measurement the shared tests recorded for both tires; a tick marks the tire ahead on that line. Subjective driver scores count as wins but are never averaged, because each test uses its own scale.
Head to head in 6 tests, 2022 to 2025
Each row is one published test in which both tires ran on the same car, in the same size, on the same day. The line is the whole field, winner on the left.
| Test | Pilot Alpin 5 | Field | WinterExpert |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Autobild Winter Tire Test | P1 of 20 | P8 of 20 | |
| 2025 Winter Tire Braking Test - 52 Sets! | P2 of 51 | P5 of 51 | |
| 2025 ADAC Winter Tire Test | P2 of 31 | P11 of 31 | |
| 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tire Test | P1 of 20 | P12 of 20 | |
| 2023 Winter Tire Test 54 Set Braking Test | P2 of 54 | P11 of 54 | |
| 2022 AMS Winter Tire Test | P1 of 8 | P6 of 8 |
Performance profile
14 measurements from the 6 shared tests, each tire shown as its share of the better figure in every test.
Where each is furthest ahead
Pilot Alpin 5
WinterExpert
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
In each test the better of the two figures counts as 100% and the other as its share of it, so a 118 ft stop against 112 ft is 95%; each spoke averages the shared tests that recorded it. 7 measurements recorded in only one shared test are left off; every measurement is in the table further down.
Where each scores higher
Pilot Alpin 5
WinterExpert
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
Category scores are percentiles among tires of the same season and class: 90 means this tire out-performs 90% of them, measured across every test we hold, not only the ones it appeared in.
Where owners rate each higher
Pilot Alpin 5
WinterExpert
Not ahead in any category
Point at or tap any spoke for both tires' figures.
Owners rate the Pilot Alpin 5 87% from 33 reviews and the WinterExpert 76% from 7. Each spoke is one question owners answer out of 10; reviews are vetted by hand before publication.
Every measurement, side by side
Averages of the figures both tires posted in the same tests. The gap is the average of each test's own gap, so figures from different cars and years are never mixed. Open a discipline for its measurements, and a measurement for every test's figure.
| Measurement | Pilot Alpin 5 | Gap | WinterExpert | Wins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 139 | 8.5% | 152 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 72.3 | 1.1% | 71.5 | 3-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 131 | 4% | 136 | 6-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 121 | 3.1% | 125 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 50.2 | 3.8% | 48.3 | 3-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 5.4 | 8.3% | 5.8 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 12.23 | 2.2% | 12.51 | 2-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 49.2 | 1.8% | 48.4 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 7.5 | 7.6% | 8 | 0-3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 82 | 3.5% | 85 | 6-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 320 | 5% | 304 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 35.7 | 2.9% | 34.7 | 3-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 4.08 | 8.8% | 3.72 | 0-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 10.1 | 4.6% | 9.6 | 2-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 53 | 6.3% | 57 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| scored | 9% | scored | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 69.23 | 1.4 dB | 70.65 | 4-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 32,220 | 9.2% | 29,247 | 2-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 8.42 | 4% | 8.08 | 0-3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 5.8 | = | 5.8 | 0-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 50 | 27.5% | 69 | 1-0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Braking distances and lap times are better when lower; speeds, wear and grip figures when higher. A test's figures are its own: sizes, cars, surfaces and temperatures differ from one to the next, which is why the averages here are only ever of tests the two tires shared. "Scored" rows are subjective driver ratings: each test uses its own scale, so only the wins are counted.
Scores beyond the shared tests
On the Tire Reviews Score, which weighs every test and review we hold, the Pilot Alpin 5 scores 9.5 and the WinterExpert 7.8 out of 10.
| Pilot Alpin 5 | Category | WinterExpert | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99 | Dry | 35 | ||
| 90 | Wet | 70 | ||
| 89 | Comfort | 40 | ||
| 59 | Value | 69 | ||
| 92 | Snow | 65 | ||
| 80 | Ice | 19 | ||
Category scores are percentiles among tires of the same season and class: 90 means this tire out-performs 90% of them, measured across every test we hold, not only the ones it appeared in.
What owners say
| Pilot Alpin 5 | Category | WinterExpert | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Dry Grip | 8.3 | ||
| 9 | Wet Grip | 9 | ||
| 8.8 | Road Feedback | 7.3 | ||
| 8.9 | Handling | 7.4 | ||
| 9 | Wear | 7.8 | ||
| 8.3 | Comfort | 7.4 | ||
| 9 | Snow Grip | 7.2 | ||
| 8 | Ice Grip | 6 | ||
Owners rate the Pilot Alpin 5 87% from 33 reviews and the WinterExpert 76% from 7. Reviews are vetted by hand before publication; ownership is not verified.
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
- 87%from 33 reviews
- 84%would buy again
- 357,850 milesdriven by reviewers
Owners rate the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 highly overall (average 82.7%), with the clearest consensus around strong snow traction and unusually capable dry-road performance for a winter tire. Wet grip also earns plenty of praise, and a smaller group highlights sharp steering feel and secure snow handling. Complaints are more mixed, but around a quarter of owners mention either firmer-than-expected ride comfort or disappointing ice performance, and a smaller minority report noticeable road noise and weak slush behavior.
- Strong snow traction and confidence in winter conditions
- Outstanding dry grip for a winter tire
- Very good wet grip
- Secure, sporty handling on dry roads
- Ice grip can be poor and unpredictable for some
- Firm or bumpy ride comfort for a winter tire
- Noticeable road noise at speed
Summarised by AI from 27 vetted reviews; the reviews themselves are on the tire page.
All 33 Pilot Alpin 5 reviewsGreat tire, i replaced my GY Ultragrip performance 3 with this and i can say they are even better on snow than GY. Where Michelin lacks to GY is on wet. I find goodyear a bit better on wet surfaces but both tires are excepional.
Uniroyal WinterExpert
- 76%from 7 reviews
- 71%would buy again
- 59,000 milesdriven by reviewers
Drivers generally report the Uniroyal WinterExpert performs strongly in wet conditions, with confident rain performance and good grip on wet and dry roads. Snow capability is usually described as good, though one reviewer felt it lagged behind a previous winter tire on snow/ice and questioned value for money. A recurring downside is higher noise typical of winter tires, while fuel economy and predictable, responsive handling are noted positives.
- strong wet grip and rain performance (hydroplaning resistance)
- good overall grip on dry and wet roads
- capable winter performance for normal/calm driving (including snow)
- predictable/controlled handling and responsive steering feel
- tends to be noisier than expected, especially at low-speed maneuvers
Summarised by AI from 6 vetted reviews; the reviews themselves are on the tire page.
All 7 WinterExpert reviewsTires that I had before was Hankook winter I-cept 2 much beter tires than this uniroyal when it comes to snow and ice driving, driving comfort are about the same, driving on wet roads uniroyal is realy good, beter than hankook, handling is ok and noise level beter than advertised. overall I will not spend that kind of money on uniroyal anymore.
Sizes, EU label and lineage
From the EU label registrations for each tire: 81 sizes of the Pilot Alpin 5 and 90 of the WinterExpert, 28 of them made in both.
| Category | Pilot Alpin 5 | WinterExpert |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Winter | Winter |
| Sizes made | 81 sizes, 16 to 23 inch | 90 sizes, 13 to 20 inch |
| Made in both | 28 sizes 205/60 R16215/65 R16225/50 R17235/45 R17235/55 R17215/40 R18215/50 R18215/55 R18225/40 R18225/45 R18225/50 R18225/55 R18and 16 more | |
| EU label wet grip | B58%C40%D2% | C79%B21% |
| EU label rolling resistance | C60%D30%B9% | C64%D30%B6% |
| EU label noise | 68-75 dB B70%A30% | 71-73 dB B100% |
| Severe snow (3PMSF) sizes | 96 of 96 | 121 of 121 |
| On the market since | 2017 | 2021 |
| Replaced | Michelin Pilot Alpin 4 (2012) | - |
| Price in the shared tests | The Pilot Alpin 5 was the dearer tire in 5 of the 5 tests that listed prices, by 36.5% on average. Each test priced the tires in its own market at the time; only the gap is comparable. | |
Label grades are shown as the share of registered sizes carrying each grade, so "B (88%), C (12%)" means most sizes are B. Grades vary by size; check the label for yours.
Reading the results
Written from the test results and owner reviews above. It is analysis, not a measurement: where it and the tables disagree, the tables are right.
This head-to-head pits two very different winter tires against each other: Michelin's Pilot Alpin 5, an ultra-high-performance winter choice aimed at drivers who value precision and all-round control, versus Uniroyal's WinterExpert, a premium-touring option focused on efficiency and value. Across six shared tests from 2022-2025 in 18-19-inch fitments, the Michelin consistently competes at the sharp end, while the Uniroyal positions itself as a sensible, economical all-rounder.
The data shows a clear pattern: Michelin dominates braking and handling on dry, wet, snow and even ice, often by meaningful margins, while Uniroyal counters with lower purchase price and class-leading rolling resistance. Aquaplaning is the notable exception where Uniroyal frequently edges ahead in curved/combined water evacuation. Buyers are essentially choosing between maximum dynamic safety and refinement (Michelin) versus lower running costs and solid, predictable winter competence (Uniroyal).
Conclusion
Michelin's Pilot Alpin 5 is the benchmark performer here: it wins all six shared tests overall and leads in the majority of critical safety metrics-dry/wet/snow braking, wet and snow handling, noise comfort, and wear. Its braking gaps are often decisive (e.g., up to ~10-12% shorter on dry and wet in some tests) and it remains composed across conditions, making it a standout for confident winter driving, spirited use, and high-performance cars. The main trade-off is price.
Uniroyal's WinterExpert delivers balanced, dependable winter manners with standout efficiency. It regularly tops curved aquaplaning and posts the best rolling resistance and value scores, which can translate into lower fuel costs and a smaller purchase outlay. For cost-conscious drivers who prioritize economy and are comfortable with slightly longer stopping distances and softer steering precision, it's a smart, practical pick.
Bottom line: Choose Michelin if you want the highest safety margins and driving precision in all winter conditions. Choose Uniroyal if you value low running costs and good all-round capability, especially on wet motorways where aquaplaning resistance and efficiency matter most.
Pilot Alpin 5 vs WinterExpert: your questions
Is the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 or the Uniroyal WinterExpert the better tire?
In the 6 independent tests that ran both tires, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 finished ahead 6 times and the WinterExpert not once. On the Tire Reviews Score, which weighs every test and review we hold, the Pilot Alpin 5 scores 9.5 and the WinterExpert 7.8 out of 10.
Which is better in the wet, the Pilot Alpin 5 or the WinterExpert?
The Pilot Alpin 5 led 16 of the 20 wet measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 4% shorter in the wet across 6 tests.
Which is better in the dry?
The Pilot Alpin 5 led 7 of the 7 dry measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 8.5% shorter in the dry across 4 tests.
Which is better in snow?
The Pilot Alpin 5 led 15 of the 16 snow measurements the shared tests recorded. On average it stopped 3.5% shorter on snow across 6 tests.
Which lasts longer and costs less to run?
The Pilot Alpin 5 lasted 9.2% longer in the wear tests (3 tests); the WinterExpert had 4% lower rolling resistance (3 tests). Owners rate wear 9/10 for the Pilot Alpin 5 and 7.8/10 for the WinterExpert.
Which is quieter and more comfortable?
The Pilot Alpin 5 was 1.4 dB quieter (4 tests). Owners rate comfort 8.3/10 for the Pilot Alpin 5 and 7.4/10 for the WinterExpert.
What do owners say?
Owners rate the Pilot Alpin 5 87% from 33 reviews and the WinterExpert 76% from 7. 84% of Pilot Alpin 5 owners would buy it again, against 71% for the WinterExpert.
Which is more expensive?
In the 5 tests that listed prices, the Pilot Alpin 5 was the dearer tire in 5 of them, by 36.5% on average. Prices are the test's own at the time, in its own market.
Are they available in the same sizes?
The Pilot Alpin 5 is made in 81 sizes (16 to 23 inch) and the WinterExpert in 90 (13 to 20 inch). 28 sizes are available in both. On the EU label the Pilot Alpin 5 is graded B for wet grip and C for rolling resistance in most sizes; the WinterExpert C and C.
Which is the newer tire?
The WinterExpert is the newer design: it reached the market in 2021, the Pilot Alpin 5 in 2017. The Pilot Alpin 5 replaced the Michelin Pilot Alpin 4.
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Run either of these?
Your review is the part of this page no test can supply: how the tire wore, how it aged, what it was like in the rain in year three. It takes about five minutes.
Where this data comes from
Finishing positions and measurements are transcribed from each published test. A test only counts here when both tires ran in it, so every figure was recorded on the same car, size and day as the one it is compared to.
About the TR Score
The Tire Reviews Score rates each tire out of 10 from every independent test result and vetted owner review we hold, so two tires can be compared even before a test has run them together.
Who does the testing
Every test published as a Tire Reviews test is run by Jonathan Benson, who has been testing tires independently since 2007.
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