75
/ 100
Objective (60%)
96/100
35 professional tests
User signal (40%)
71/100
110 owner reviews
Prices change daily — check the retailer for your size.
Head-to-head
Updated September 2026
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 vs Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 — Compared (September 2026)
Our Relative Score blends 60% objective test data with 40% owner-review signal — so any two tires can be compared even if they were never tested on the same day.
VS
75
/ 100
Objective (60%)
89/100
19 professional tests
User signal (40%)
78/100
3 owner reviews
Prices change daily — check the retailer for your size.
VerdictToo close to call: Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 and Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 are within 2 points overall. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is stronger on wet and comfort. Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 is stronger on snow and handling.
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Category breakdown
7 categories, side by side
Each bar is the Relative Score for that category. Expand a tile to see the test results and owner ratings behind it.
Dry
Score (0–100)
Blizzak LM005 leads by 2
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 89 | 83 |
| Tire Rack owners | 87 | – |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 77 | 80 |
| Dry Braking (% of best) | 93% | 95% |
| Dry Handling (% of best) | 100% | 99% |
Wet
Score (0–100)
Blizzak LM005 leads by 4
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 91 | 82 |
| Tire Rack owners | 88 | – |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 84 | 87 |
| Wet Braking (% of best) | 100% | 95% |
| Wet Braking - Concrete (% of best) | 81% | 81% |
| Wet Circle (% of best) | 99% | 99% |
| Wet Handling (% of best) | 100% | 98% |
Snow
Score (0–100)
Cinturato Winter 2 leads by 7
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 80 | 79 |
| Tire Rack owners | 81 | – |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 72 | 90 |
| Snow Braking (% of best) | 99% | 93% |
| Snow Circle (% of best) | 91% | 99% |
| Snow Handling (% of best) | 98% | 99% |
| Snow Slalom (% of best) | 90% | 100% |
| Snow Traction (% of best) | 99% | 100% |
Comfort
Score (0–100)
Blizzak LM005 leads by 4
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 84 | 76 |
| Tire Rack owners | 81 | – |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 74 | 77 |
Noise
Score (0–100)
Cinturato Winter 2 leads by 2
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 63 | 65 |
Treadwear
Score (0–100)
Cinturato Winter 2 leads by 1
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Rack owners | 64 | – |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 59 | 60 |
Handling
Score (0–100)
Cinturato Winter 2 leads by 4
Why this score
| Source | Blizzak LM005 | Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Reviews owners | 73 | 77 |
Scores at a glance
| Category | Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 | Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Relative Score | 75 | 75 |
| Dry | 84 | 82 |
| Wet | 88 | 84 |
| Snow | 77 | 84 |
| Comfort | 80 | 76 |
| Noise | 63 | 65 |
| Treadwear | 59 | 60 |
| Handling | 73 | 77 |
Higher is better. The Relative Score follows your weights below; category scores do not change.
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Wet grip and treadwear start at “Important” — the two things buyers rank highest. Move the sliders and the scores update instantly.
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Recomputed
Headline score
75
/ 100
Tire A
75
/ 100
Tire B
Test data
The professional test results behind the scores
Each result is shown as % of the best tire in that test. “Same test” rows are the strictest comparison: both tires were measured side by side.
| Discipline | Category | Tire A | Tire B | Δ | Both? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curved Aquaplaning | Curved | 95% #2/9 · 2023 Tyre Reviews SUV Winter Tyre Test | 82% #14/15 · 2023 ADAC 17 inch Winter Tyre Test | +13.1 | Different tests |
| Dry Braking | Dry | 93% #11/11 · 2023 Sports Cars Winter Tyre Test | 95% #6/20 · 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | -2.3 | Different tests |
| Dry Handling | Dry | 100% #1/7 · 2023 AMS SUV Winter Tyre Test | 99% #3/10 · 2025 AMS Winter Tyre Test | +1 | Different tests |
| Rolling Resistance | Efficiency | 96% #2/10 · 2021 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tyre Test | 84% #9/11 · 2023 Tyre Reviews Winter Tyre Test | +11.7 | Different tests |
| Fuel Consumption | Fuel | 98% #10/16 · 2023 ADAC 16 Inch Tyre Test | 100% #9/12 · 2024 ADAC 16 Inch Winter Tyre Test | -1.7 | Different tests |
| Ice Braking | Ice | 89% #12/16 · 2023 ADAC 16 Inch Tyre Test | 98% #5/15 · 2023 ADAC 17 inch Winter Tyre Test | -9.9 | Different tests |
| Abrasion | Other | 92% #14/16 · 2023 ADAC 16 Inch Tyre Test | 75% #10/15 · 2023 ADAC 17 inch Winter Tyre Test | +17.2 | Different tests |
| Noise | Other | 96% #5/9 · 2021 Tyre Reviews Winter Tyre Test | 97% #6/11 · 2023 Sports Cars Winter Tyre Test | -0.3 | Different tests |
| Price | Other | 73% #7/10 · 2021 AMS Winter Tyre Test | 100% #8/9 · 2022/23 Tyre Reviews Winter Tyre Test | -26.7 | Different tests |
| Value | Other | 100% #6/6 · 2023/24 Tyre Reviews UHP Winter Tyre Test | 86% #16/20 · 2025 Autobild Winter Tyre Test | +14.5 | Different tests |
| Wear | Other | 82% #5/20 · 2019 Auto Bild Winter 17 inch Tyre Test | 95% #5/20 · 2022 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | -12.9 | Different tests |
| Overall Ranking | Overall | 100% #1/10 · 2021 AMS Winter Tyre Test | 14% #7/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | +85.7 | Different tests |
| Snow Braking | Snow | 99% #3/10 · 2024 All Season and Winter Tyre Test | 93% #8/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | +6.6 | Different tests |
| Snow Circle | Snow | 91% #5/7 · 2023 AMS SUV Winter Tyre Test | 99% #2/10 · 2024 All Season and Winter Tyre Test | -8.4 | Different tests |
| Snow Handling | Snow | 98% #7/9 · 2021 Tyre Reviews Winter Tyre Test | 99% #4/20 · 2024 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | -0.9 | Different tests |
| Snow Slalom | Snow | 90% #17/20 · 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | 100% #1/9 · 2023 Sport Auto Winter Tyre Test | -10.4 | Different tests |
| Snow Traction | Snow | 99% #3/9 · 2023 Tyre Reviews SUV Winter Tyre Test | 100% #8/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | -0.8 | Different tests |
| Straight Aqua | Straight | 97% #5/10 · 2022 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tyre Test | 100% #4/20 · 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | -2.9 | Different tests |
| Subj. Comfort | Subj | 88% #4/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | 100% #4/20 · 2025 Autobild Winter Tyre Test | -12.5 | Different tests |
| Subj. Dry Handling | Subj | 97% #2/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | 77% #7/8 · 2022 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | +20 | Same test |
| Subj. Snow Handling | Subj | 100% #1/14 · 2020 Auto Zeitung Winter Tyre Test | 99% #2/7 · 2025 Die Reifentester Winter Tyre Test | +1.3 | Different tests |
| Subj. Wet Handling | Subj | 100% #3/11 · 2019 AMS Winter SUV Tyre Test | 91% #5/7 · 2025 Die Reifentester Winter Tyre Test | +8.8 | Different tests |
| Total Cost of Ownership | Total | 0% #6/6 · 2023/24 Tyre Reviews UHP Winter Tyre Test | 0% #16/20 · 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | 0 | Different tests |
| Wet Braking | Wet | 100% #1/20 · 2019 Auto Bild Winter 17 inch Tyre Test | 95% #3/56 · 2022 Winter Tyre Market Overview | +5.2 | Different tests |
| Wet Braking - Concrete | Wet | 81% #1/16 · 2023 ADAC 16 Inch Tyre Test | 81% #2/16 · 2024 ADAC 17 inch Winter Tyre Test | +0.2 | Different tests |
| Wet Circle | Wet | 99% #2/10 · 2022 Auto Bild SUV Winter Tyre Test | 99% #4/20 · 2023 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | +0.3 | Different tests |
| Wet Handling | Wet | 100% #3/20 · 2021 Auto Bild Winter Tyre Test | 98% #3/10 · 2024 All Season and Winter Tyre Test | +2.2 | Different tests |
From owners
Pros, cons & observations
Themes extracted from owner reviews across retailers and review sites — not the opinion of TireWheelGuide.
The Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is widely regarded as a class-leading winter tire for wet and slushy conditions, offering exceptional grip and braking performance that rivals summer tires. While it performs reliably in fresh snow, user consensus indicates a significant decline in performance and tread life after the first two seasons, with many owners reporting premature wear and increased noise levels as the tire ages.
Pros
- Exceptional wet-weather grip and aquaplaning resistance.
- Predictable and stable handling on dry roads.
- Strong performance in slush and fresh snow when new.
- High levels of ride comfort and low noise levels during the initial phase of ownership.
Cons
- Rapid and premature tread wear, often failing to last beyond 15,000–20,000 km.
- Significant performance degradation in snow and ice after the first or second season.
- Development of loud humming or buzzing noises as the tire ages.
- Reports of tread deformation, wobbly blocks, or uneven wear patterns.
Observations
- Heavy vehicles, including EVs and large SUVs, appear to accelerate the rapid tread wear observed by many users.
- Users with RWD vehicles noted that while the tire is predictable, it can struggle with traction on steep inclines once the tread depth drops below 5mm.
- Drivers of performance-oriented or heavier cars reported noticeable understeer during spirited driving in dry conditions.
The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 is generally regarded as a highly capable winter tire that excels in wet and snowy conditions while providing a secure, planted feel. While users appreciate its safety and traction, there are notable concerns regarding its longevity and tread wear, as well as a shift toward a softer, touring-oriented handling profile compared to its predecessors.
Pros
- Excellent traction and confidence in wet and snowy conditions
- Strong braking performance on dry surfaces
- High level of subjective road feedback and handling security
- Comfortable touring-oriented ride quality
Cons
- Rapid tread wear and concerns regarding overall tire longevity
- Less precise handling and feedback compared to sportier winter tires
- Increased road noise and fuel consumption noted by some users
- Softer sidewall feel which may not suit performance-oriented driving
Observations
- Users transitioning from the sportier Sottozero 3 noted a significant shift toward a touring-focused, less direct handling experience.
- The tire's performance is highly regarded for drivers seeking a balanced, safe option for cold, rainy, and occasional mountain winter conditions.
Specifications
Specs side by side
| Attribute | A · Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 | B · Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Winter Premium Touring tires | Winter Premium Touring tires |
| Vehicle type | Passenger Car / Crossover | — |
| Sizes available | 11 | 8 |
| Rim diameters | 17″ – 21″ | 16″ – 18″ |
| Tread depth | 9/32″ | 11/32″ |
| Sidewall | Blackwall | Blackwall |
| Max pressure | 50 psi | 50 psi |
Final verdict
Which one should you actually buy?
75
/ 100
Bridgestone
75
/ 100
Pirelli
Too close to call: Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 and Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 are within 2 points overall. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is stronger on wet and comfort. Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 is stronger on snow and handling.
Pick tire B
You drive through snowy winters
Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 scores 84 vs 77 on snow.
Pick tire A
Your priority is wet-weather safety
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 scores 88 vs 84 on wet.
Pick tire A
You want the most comfortable ride
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 scores 80 vs 76 on comfort.
Pick tire B
You enjoy sharp, responsive handling
Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 scores 77 vs 73 on handling.
Tire A · Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
Tire B · Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
More comparisons
Also compared with
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 also compared with
Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 also compared with
How do we compare tires?
Every category score blends two independent signals. 60% comes from professional tire tests (braking distances, lap times, noise measurements) normalized against the best tire in each test and weighted toward recent tests. 40% comes from thousands of owner reviews collected from retailers and review sites. When a tire has only one of the two, we use what exists and say so.
Community buzz from Reddit and forums is shown for context only — it never changes the score.