Pickup trucks are enormously popular in the United States. They provide utility, towing capabilities — and recent models have many useful technologies. Two of the highest-selling pickup trucks are the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. See how these two large light-duty trucks stack up in this 2022 Ford F-150 vs. 2022 Ram 1500 comparison.

Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500: Performance, engine specs, and fuel economy

Both the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 are impressive on the performance front, with a wide range of engine options. The output of the F-150’s engines ranges from 250 to 450 hp and 265 to 570 lb-ft of torque. For the Ram 1500, engine output ranges from 260 to 702 hp and 269 to 650 lb-ft of torque. Also, Ford may release a high-performance F-150 Raptor R model, which will likely have an even higher horsepower and torque than the current F-150 Raptor.

As can be expected for large pickup trucks, neither the F-150 nor Ram 1500 gets great gas mileage. Fuel economy ranges from a combined 19 to 25 mpg for the F-150 and 12 to 26 mpg for the Ram 1500. However, if you’re aiming for efficiency and eco-friendly credentials, then you should take a look at the F-150 Lightning, which has an all-electric powertrain. The Ram 1500 doesn’t currently offer an electric model.

Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500: Towing and payload

The Ford F-150 is a towing beast. With a towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, it can tow more than any other pickup truck. In comparison, the Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds. Both trucks offer towing features like an integrated trailer brake controller, rear cameras, and autonomous steering for backing up with a trailer. However, unlike the Ram 1500, the F-150 offers an optional air suspension. In addition to improving ride quality, the air suspension enables you to lower the height of the F-150 for easier hitching of a trailer. 

For hauling in the pickup bed, the F-150 and Ram 1500 are evenly matched. While the F-150 has a higher standard payload capacity (1,745 vs. 1,242 pounds), the Ram 1500 has a higher maximum payload capacity (2,322 vs. 2,238 pounds).

Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500: Technology features

The F-150 and Ram 1500 offer a similar array of technologies. This includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, USB ports, a navigation system, and a high-quality audio system. Also, the F-150 and Ram 1500 offer safety and driving assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beam headlights. 

Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500: Utility features

Both the F-150 vs. Ram 1500 are strong for utility. The Pro Power Onboard feature for the F-150 turns the truck into a mobile generator, with the ability to produce up to 7,200 watts of electricity. Also, the F-150 offers a Work Surface feature, which is a table that folds from the center armrest.

A utility highlight of the Ram 1500 is its multifunction tailgate, which can open either straight down or to the side with the 60/40 split for the doors. The Ram 1500 also offers the RamBox Cargo Management System, with lockable, illuminated, and weatherproof storage bins on each side of the bed.

Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500: Price

The range in prices for both the F-150 and Ram 1500 varies considerably. As of this writing, pricing information for the 2022 F-150 is not yet available. However, we can look at the price of the 2021 F-150. The base-level 2021 F-150 costs $29,250, while pricing for the high-performance 2021 F-150 Raptor starts at $64,145. For the 2022 Ram 1500, the base-level Tradesman trim costs $35,670, while pricing for the high-performance TRX trim starts at $72,390.

Both the 2022 Ford F-150 and 2022 Ram 1500 are great trucks. With their high-level capabilities, it’s easy to see why they are top-selling models. Each truck has its strengths, so evaluate your needs and choose the best pickup truck for you.