The difference is as you stated, in-channel and tape on. i personally like the in channel ones that i have on my matrix (weather tech) vs the tape on ones (AVS). it is mostly a matter of preference. i didnt like the idea of "tape on" during the time. since it is only secured by tape they can be stolen easily. i had a friend that had an si with the jdm tape on visors and they ended up getting stolen.