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It seems like it’s been a quiet year for the 2021 Ram 1500. The 2021 Ford F-150 has been in the news more often as the best-selling truck. However, the Ram 1500 still manages to outrank the F-150 on some lists as the best truck and beats the F-150 in certain areas.

The 2021 Ram 1500 vs. the 2021 Ford F-150 

Pictured is one of the best trucks for towing, the 2021 Ram 1500 Limited, as it tows a boat.
2021 Ram 1500 Limited | Stellantis

According to U.S.News, the 2021 Ram 1500 outranks the 2021 Ford F-150 for the Best Full-Size Pickup Truck title. This goes against other critics from TrueCar and MotorTrend that have the F-150 listed as the best option. 

Across different sites, vehicle ranking processes vary. U.S.News ranks vehicles based on published reviews from respected automotive critics and data from third-party sources. The reviews come from newspapers, magazines, and automotive reviews that provide information about the vehicle’s performance, interior, safety, reliability, cargo, comfort, fuel economy, and awards. 

Each segment has a unique formula to accurately rate a vehicle with a score from zero to 10. For example, minivans are rated a bit differently than pickup trucks to correctly line up with shopper’s expectations across different segments. Also, the scores may change as updated information rolls out. 

What does the Ram 1500 rank higher than the Ford F-150? 

The 2021 Ram 1500 has a score of 9.1 from the U.S.News, and the 2021 Ford F-150 has a score of 8.9. They have an incredibly close score, but ultimately the Ram 1500 managed to pull ahead because of its interior. 

The Ford F-150’s ranking says that it’s less upscale and comfortable than the Ram 1500. The only con listed for the Ram 1500 is that some rivals can tow more. The Ram 1500 got a totally redesigned interior in 2019 that competitors haven’t been able to match yet. 

The Ford F-150 received an interior refresh in 2021 that includes max recline seats and updated tech, but it still has some catching up to do. The Ram 1500 has a unique coil-spring rear suspension that provides a more comfortable ride, and it provides a more peaceful interior. 

According to Edmunds, the Ram 1500 has comfortable and supportive front seats that are great for long distances. The backseat has a comfortable backrest angle and a nice recline angle. Edmunds noted that the max recline seats in the F-150 are great for taking a nap but lack side bolstering and overall comfort compared to the standard seats. 

How do the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 compare? 

The 2021 Ford F-150 towing a boat on the road
2021 Ford F-150 | Ford

You can get started in 2021 Ram 1500 for about $32,795, and the 2021 Ford F-150 begins at about $28,940. The Ford F-150 gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway. The Ram 1500 gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. 

The Ford F-150 Hybrid may provide an advantage for fuel-conscious drivers. However, both trucks offer a diesel engine. When properly equipped, the F-150 can tow up to 14,000 lbs, and the Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 lbs. 

Both trucks offer an optional 12-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The systems are fast and easy to use. Convenience features include a wireless phone charger, ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. 

While the Ford F-150 may be a little stronger with new bells and whistles, such as the onboard generator, the Ram 1500 is considered the more comfortable option. Both trucks are great choices to consider.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.