F250 vs F350 Comparison

Here at Hillbilly Auto Supply we often debat which truck is the better option for folks and so we decided to put pen to paper. The Ford F-250 Super Duty and F-350 are closely related heavy-duty pickups that cater to slightly different needs, making them a natural comparison for buyers who tow and haul. Both share similar engines, interiors, and technology, but the F-350 typically offers higher payload and towing capacities thanks to its stronger rear axle, suspension, and higher GVWR. That extra capability makes the F-350 better suited for frequent heavy fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing, while the F-250 often strikes a better balance of price, ride comfort, and everyday usability. Shoppers essentially choose between “more than enough truck” in the F-250 and “absolutely no compromises on capability” in the F-350.

1. Overview & Purpose

• Ford F-250: Considered a ¾-ton truck, it is ideal for those who need significant towing and hauling capability but don’t require the extreme payload and towing ratings of the F-350.
• Ford F-350: A 1-ton truck, it is built for heavier towing and payloads, making it better suited for commercial applications or those who tow extremely heavy trailers.

2. Chassis & Suspension

• F-250: Generally comes with a lighter-duty suspension compared to the F-350, making the ride slightly smoother for daily driving.
• F-350: Features a heavier-duty suspension, often with additional rear leaf springs, allowing for greater payload and towing capabilities.

3. 3. Payload Capacity

• F-250: Payload capacity varies based on configuration but typically ranges from 3,500 to 4,300 pounds.
• F-350: Can handle significantly more, with payload capacities ranging from 4,000 to over 7,800 pounds, especially when equipped with a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup.

4. Towing Capacity

• F-250: Conventional towing capacity ranges from 12,000 to 20,000 pounds, depending on engine choice and axle configuration. With a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch, towing can increase to around 22,000 pounds.
• F-350: Offers a higher towing capacity, ranging from 13,000 to 21,000 pounds with conventional towing and 24,000 to over 35,000 pounds with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel setup.

5. Drivetrain & Axle Options

• F-250: Usually comes with a 10.5-inch rear axle for single rear wheel (SRW) configurations.
• F-350: Offers a larger 11.5-inch or 12-inch rear axle, which allows for increased towing and payload. It is also available with a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup, providing more stability for heavy loads.

6. Wheels & Tire Options

• F-250: Only available in single rear wheel (SRW) configurations.
• F-350: Available in both SRW and DRW (dually) setups, with the dually option providing better stability for towing heavy trailers.

7. Frame & GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)

• F-250: Has a GVWR typically between 10,000 and 10,800 pounds.
• F-350: Features a higher GVWR, ranging from 10,100 to 14,000 pounds, depending on whether it is an SRW or DRW configuration.

8. Pricing & Cost Considerations

• F-250: Generally less expensive than the F-350 due to its lower towing and payload capabilities.
• F-350: Costs more, especially in dually configurations, due to its higher weight ratings and heavy-duty components.

9. Ride Comfort & Daily Driving

• F-250: More comfortable for daily driving due to its softer suspension.
• F-350: Rides rougher, especially when unloaded, due to the stiffer suspension designed for heavy loads.

10. Who Should Choose Which?

• Choose the F-250 if you need a powerful truck for towing and hauling but want a slightly smoother ride and lower costs.
• Choose the F-350 if you regularly tow heavier loads, require a dually for stability, or need maximum payload capacity.

Conclusion

While both trucks are powerful workhorses, the F-350 offers more capability at the expense of ride comfort and cost. The F-250, on the other hand, provides plenty of capability for most users while being a better daily driver. Got questions about any of this, feel free to reach out to us with any questions youm ay have.