If you want the best heavy-duty truck, the two best options to consider are the 2021 Ram 2500 and the 2021 Ford F-250. Both of these trucks have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Ford F-250 provides a little more than the Ram 2500. 

The 2021 Ram 2500 vs. the 2021 Ford F-250 

The team over at Motor Trend ranked heavy-duty trucks in six different categories to determine the best option. The 2021 Ford F-150 Super Duty won four out of six of the groups, while the 2021 Ram 2500 only won one. But the Ram 2500 isn’t far behind, 

Let’s start with pricing. You can get started in an F-250 Super Duty for about $34,230. The 2021 Ram 2500 starts at about $34,345. That’s only a difference of $115. These prices are the MSRPs and don’t include dealership markups or destination fees. 

Does the F-250 or Ram 2500 have more power? 

The Ford F-250 has the most horsepower with the gasoline and diesel engines. The optional 7.3-liter V8 engine provides 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. With the 6.7-liter diesel engine, you get 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. On that note, the F-250 also has the best torque. 

With the 2021 Ram 2500, the 6.4-liter gasoline V8 provides 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. The 6.7-liter inline-six diesel engine musters up 420 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. Ram would have the best torque if the high-output Cummins was offered with the 2500 model. 

Next up is more muscle. The Ford F-250 can tow up to 21,000 lbs making it the best option for towing. The Ram 2500 can tow up to 19,290 lbs. So, they only have about a 2,000 lb difference, which isn’t bad. 

The Ram 2500 can carry a payload of up to 4,480 lbs. It won the payload category! Meanwhile, the F-250 can carry a payload of up to 4,260 lbs, putting it in second place. 

When it comes to the best warranty, the trucks are all tied. Super Duty or heavy-duty options come with a standard three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty with gasoline engines. With the diesel powertrains, you get a five-year or 100,000-mile warranty. 

Does the F-250 or Ram 2500 have better features? 

So based on the numbers, the 2021 Ford F-2500 has more strength than the 2021 Ram 2500. But let’s consider more subjective things, like performance. 

The F-250 has a peppy acceleration and smooth transmission shifts, but the braking is a bit soft. It takes longer than average to stop. The steering is vague, but despite being bulky, it’s maneuverable. 

Critics found that the Ram 2500 has average braking power with an adequate acceleration. The handling could be more responsive, and it’s pretty agile for driving in the city. Plus, the Power Wagon offers serious off-roading capability. 

Both trucks offer a spacious cabin, but the Ram 2500 has more comfortable seats and a smoother ride. The F-250 has a quieter interior with tech that’s a little more intuitive. Both trucks have a well-executed layout with everything within reach. 

At the end of the day, the Ford F-250 and Ram 2500 are both excellent options to consider. However, the F-250 beats the 2500 in more categories. We recommend giving both a test drive.