We researched and compared the top intakes for the Hellcat engine, analyzing manufacturer specs, published performance data, and aggregated owner feedback. Our evaluation covers power gains, fitment, filtration quality, and real-world durability. Whether you have a Challenger or Charger Hellcat, this guide helps you choose the best intake for your needs and budget.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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AFE Power Momentum GT Pro 5R Top Pick Dry synthetic media, 5-layer filtration, sealed aluminum housing |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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K&N 63 Series Blackhawk Best Value High-flow cotton gauze, rotomolded plastic tube, heat shield |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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ROTO-FAB Dry Filter Intake Best Dry Filter Dry synthetic filter, sealed box, 6-layer media |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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JLT Performance Cold Air Intake Best Budget Option Oiled cotton filter, aluminum tube, open element with heat shield |
8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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S&B Filters Cold Air Intake Best Filter Design Oiled cotton filter, sealed box with clear lid, 360-degree filter |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mopar Cold Air Intake Factory Upgrade Oiled cotton filter, plastic housing, factory-backed design |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Injen Evolution Cold Air Intake Unique Design Oiled cotton filter, dual-wall tube, sealed box |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. AFE Power Momentum GT Pro 5R: Top Pick
In our evaluation, the AFE Power Momentum GT Pro 5R stands out for its exceptional build quality and dyno-verified gains. The sealed airbox is engineered to pull air from the front of the vehicle, reducing intake air temperatures by up to 20 degrees compared to the stock system. Owner feedback consistently praises the easy installation and noticeable throttle response improvement. The Pro 5R dry filter offers great filtration without the need for oiling, making maintenance simple. However, the premium price may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers, and the large housing can be tight in some engine bays.
This intake is ideal for Hellcat owners who want maximum performance and are willing to pay for it. If you are on a strict budget or prefer a simpler open-element design, consider other options. The Momentum GT is also not recommended for those who frequently drive in dusty conditions, as the dry filter may require more frequent cleaning in such environments.
- Gains up to 18 hp and 20 lb-ft torque on dyno tests per manufacturer
- Sealed airbox design reduces heat soak and draws cooler air from front grille
- Includes Pro 5R oil-free filter with 99.2% efficiency per ISO 5011 testing
Pros: Proven power gains with no tune required; High-quality construction with excellent fitment
Cons: Price is among the highest in this category
2. K&N 63 Series Blackhawk: Best Value
We found the K&N 63 Series Blackhawk to be a solid performer that balances cost and performance. It uses the classic K&N cotton gauze filter that flows well and can be cleaned and reused for years. The rotomolded intake tube maintains smooth airflow, and the included heat shield helps reduce heat soak. Owner reviews note an increase in intake sound and throttle response, though some report that the heat shield does not create a perfect seal, allowing some hot air to enter. Installation is straightforward, and the kit fits both Challenger and Charger Hellcats without modification.
This intake is best for Hellcat owners who want a reliable performance upgrade without breaking the bank. However, if you are looking for the absolute lowest intake air temperatures or plan to track your car extensively, a fully sealed system like the AFE Momentum GT may be a better choice. The K&N is also a good option for those who prefer the convenience of a reusable filter.
- Claimed gains of 15 hp and 15 lb-ft torque
- Washable and reusable cotton filter with 10-year warranty
- Includes heat shield to block engine heat
Pros: Great value for the price point; Easy installation with simple hand tools
Cons: Heat shield may not fully seal in all conditions
3. ROTO-FAB Dry Filter Intake: Best Dry Filter
We evaluated the ROTO-FAB Dry Filter Intake and found it to be a top contender for those who prefer a dry filter system. The sealed airbox is well-designed to pull air from outside the engine bay, and the 6-layer synthetic media provides high flow while trapping fine particles. Owner feedback indicates consistent performance and easy maintenance, as the filter can be cleaned with a vacuum or compressed air. The carbon fiber look adds a visual upgrade under the hood. However, some users note that the filter media can clog faster in dusty conditions compared to oiled gauze filters.
This intake is ideal for Hellcat owners who prioritize filtration quality and low maintenance. If you drive in very dusty environments or want the longest interval between cleanings, an oiled cotton filter might be more suitable. The ROTO-FAB is also a good choice for those who want a sealed system but at a slightly lower price than the AFE Momentum GT.
- Gains of 16 hp and 18 lb-ft torque per manufacturer dyno
- Fully sealed airbox with carbon fiber look finish
- Oil-free filter with 99.5% efficiency per ISO 5011
Pros: Excellent filtration without oiling; Sealed box reduces heat soak effectively
Cons: Filter may need more frequent cleaning than oiled types
4. JLT Performance Cold Air Intake: Best Budget Option
We researched the JLT Performance Cold Air Intake and found it to be a budget-friendly option that still delivers noticeable gains. The oiled cotton filter and aluminum tube are straightforward in design, and the MAF adapter ensures proper sensor operation. Owner reviews highlight the aggressive intake sound and easy installation. However, because it is an open-element setup with only a heat shield, it is more susceptible to heat soak than sealed box systems. In stop-and-go traffic or hot climates, intake air temperatures can rise significantly, reducing power gains.
This intake is best for Hellcat owners on a tight budget or those who prioritize sound over maximum performance. If you live in a cooler climate or primarily drive at higher speeds where heat soak is less of an issue, the JLT can be a good value. However, for track use or hot environments, a sealed intake would be a better investment.
- Claimed 12 hp gain and improved throttle response
- Includes a CNC-machined MAF sensor adapter for accurate readings
- Simple installation with no tuning required
Pros: Very affordable compared to competitors; Loud intake sound that many owners enjoy
Cons: Open element design can suck in hot engine bay air
5. S&B Filters Cold Air Intake: Best Filter Design
We compared the S&B Filters Cold Air Intake and appreciated the thoughtful engineering behind its 360-degree filter. The filter is cylindrical with pleats on all sides, providing more surface area than traditional flat panels. The sealed box with a clear polycarbonate lid lets you see when the filter needs cleaning. Owner feedback indicates good power gains and a noticeable intake sound. However, some users report that the clear lid can become cloudy or yellow after prolonged exposure to engine heat, though this does not affect performance. Installation is moderately easy, but the design is slightly more complex than simpler intakes.
This intake is a strong choice for Hellcat owners who want a sealed system with a unique filter design and easy visual maintenance. If you prefer a dry filter or want the absolute best filtration, the ROTO-FAB may be better. The S&B is also a good option for those who like to monitor filter condition without removing the intake.
- Gains of 14 hp and 16 lb-ft torque per manufacturer
- Unique 360-degree filter design for maximum surface area
- Clear lid allows visual inspection of filter condition
Pros: Innovative filter design for high flow; Sealed box helps reduce heat soak
Cons: Clear lid may yellow over time
6. Mopar Cold Air Intake: Factory Upgrade
We evaluated the Mopar Cold Air Intake as a factory-backed option that prioritizes reliability and warranty retention over maximum power. It uses a high-flow oiled cotton filter and a plastic housing that mimics the stock airbox design. Owner feedback confirms that it installs in minutes and produces a subtle improvement in throttle response and sound. However, the power gains are modest compared to aftermarket offerings, and the price is relatively high for the performance increase. For many owners, the Mopar intake is a safe choice that won’t void the factory warranty.
This intake is best for Hellcat owners who are concerned about warranty or emissions compliance and want a simple upgrade. If you are looking for significant power gains, other intakes offer more value. The Mopar is also a good option for those who prefer a conservative modification that maintains the stock appearance.
- Mopar performance part with factory warranty coverage
- Claimed 10 hp gain with no tune required
- Direct bolt-on using factory mounting points
Pros: Maintains factory warranty and emissions compliance; Very easy installation with perfect fitment
Cons: Lowest power gains among top intakes; Higher price for modest performance increase
7. Injen Evolution Cold Air Intake: Unique Design
We researched the Injen Evolution Cold Air Intake and found it offers a unique dual-wall intake tube intended to minimize heat transfer. The sealed box and large heat shield help isolate the filter from engine heat. Owner reviews are mixed: some report good gains and sound, while others note that installation can be challenging due to tight clearances in the Hellcat engine bay. In some cases, trimming of the heat shield or other components may be necessary. The filter is oiled, requiring periodic maintenance. The power gains are decent but not class-leading.
This intake is suitable for Hellcat owners who want a distinctive design with the potential for good heat management. However, if you prefer an easy, hassle-free installation, other intakes are simpler. The Injen is also not ideal for those who want the highest possible power gains, as its performance falls short of the top picks.
- Claimed 13 hp gain with MR Technology tube
- Dual-wall intake tube reduces heat transfer
- Includes a large heat shield that seals against hood
Pros: Dual-wall tube design reduces heat soak; Aggressive sound under acceleration
Cons: Fitment can be tight and may require trimming
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a cold air intake void my Hellcat's warranty?
In the US, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers, meaning a dealer must prove that the aftermarket part caused a failure to deny warranty coverage. However, some dealers may still be difficult. The Mopar intake is designed to maintain factory warranty, while aftermarket intakes like AFE or K&N may be questioned. We recommend checking with your dealer before installation if warranty is a concern.
Do I need a tune after installing a cold air intake on my Hellcat?
Most cold air intakes for the Hellcat are designed to work without a tune, as the stock ECU can adapt to the increased airflow within limits. However, for maximum gains and to avoid a lean condition, a custom tune is recommended. Many owners run intakes without a tune without issues, but the manufacturer claims are typically based on a tuned or optimized setup.
How much horsepower can I expect from a Hellcat intake?
Based on manufacturer dyno claims and owner feedback, expect gains of 10 to 18 horsepower and similar torque increases. The actual gain depends on the specific intake, your vehicle’s condition, and whether you have a tune. The AFE Momentum GT and ROTO-FAB tend to show the highest gains, while the Mopar intake is at the lower end.
What is the difference between dry and oiled air filters?
Dry filters use synthetic media that is cleaned with a vacuum or compressed air, requiring no oil. They offer high filtration efficiency but may clog faster in dusty environments. Oiled filters use cotton gauze impregnated with oil to trap particles. They can be cleaned and re-oiled, offering long life and high flow, but require careful maintenance to avoid over-oiling which can damage MAF sensors.
Which intake is the quietest for a Hellcat?
If you prefer a subtle sound, the Mopar intake is the most conservative, as it closely resembles the stock airbox. Sealed box intakes like the AFE Momentum GT and ROTO-FAB also produce a modest increase in intake noise. Open-element intakes like the JLT or Injen tend to be louder, with more pronounced supercharger whine and induction sound.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top intakes for the Hellcat, our top pick is the AFE Power Momentum GT Pro 5R for its superior power gains, excellent heat management, and high-quality construction. For those seeking the best value, the K&N 63 Series Blackhawk offers strong performance at a lower price. Both are reliable choices that will enhance your Hellcat’s performance without compromising durability.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: May 21, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
