Every truck brand has models designed for specific types of truck shoppers. The Ram 1500 lineup includes the luxurious 2023 Ram 1500 Limited and the sporty TRX and GMC Sierra counters with the 2023 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate and off-road oriented AT4X at the upper end. However, building brand loyalty starts before most buyers can afford to spend upwards of $80,000 for a pickup truck, so let’s look at models from each brand priced under $50,000. 

Ram 1500 and GMC Sierra models under $50,000 for 2023

Using base MSRP data from Ram Trucks reveals three models under $50,000. Using the same data from GMC shows only one model below our self-imposed price cap. Let’s explore these options in more detail.

2023 Ram 1500 models under $50,000

The three 2023 Ram 1500 trucks with starting MSRPs under $50,000 are the Tradesman, Tradesman HFE, and Lone Star. All three Ram models feature the following standard equipment:

• Ram’s Quad Cab with the 76-inch truck box configuration
• A 3.6-liter V6
• An eight-speed automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive

2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman

The 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman is the lowest-priced option, with an estimated net selling price of $39,405 after the additional $1,995 destination charge. However, the following stand-alone options could increase the price considerably if chosen:

• 5.7-liter Hemi V8 – $2,995
• Anti-spin differential rear axle – $495
• Class IV receiver hitch – $445

These desirable options bring the total net price to $43,340. There are also optional groups and packages available to increase the functionality or style of the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman, including:

• Bed Utility Group – $945
• Chrome Appearance Group – $1,100
• Level 1 Safety Group – $595
• Night Edition – $2,145
• Sport Appearance Package – $1,100
• Tradesman Group – $845
• Tradesman Level 1 Equipment Group – $1,695
• Trailer-Tow Group – $2,260

Much of the equipment in these groups and packages overlap, depend upon additional options, or disallow others. So adding one or more of these requires careful consideration about your goals for the truck. 

2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman HFE

Ram designs the 2023 Tradesman HFE for a specific truck buyer and offers few options compared to the other models in the lineup. Starting at $41,045, the Tradesman HFE features the same 3.6-liter engine and eight-speed automatic transmission as the base Tradesman. The only available option on Ram’s online build and price tool is a $795 Paint Protection Film by Mopar.

2023 Ram 1500 Lone Star or Big Horn

Depending on your location, the 2023 Ram 1500 Lone Star or Big Horn starts at $41,820, including destination fees. The Ram 1500 Lone Star features the same engine and transmission options as the Tradesman but comes with the Class IV receiver hitch standard. The following groups and packages are available:

• Bed Utility Group – $945
• Big Horn Level 1 Equipment Group – $1,895
• Big Horn Level B Equipment Group – $3,845
• Level 1 Safety Group – $595
• Night Edition – $2,445
• Premium Lighting Group – $995
• Sport Appearance Package $1,305
• Trailer-Tow Group – $2,240

The only 2023 GMC Sierra model under $50,000

The 2023 GMC Sierra Pro is the only GMC pickup under $50,000. However, GMC provides several configurations from which to choose.

• Regular Cab, Standard Box – $38,995
• Regular Cab, Long Box – $39,195
• Double Cab, Standard Box – $42,295
• Crew Cab, Short Box – $44,695
• Crew Cab, Standard Box – $48,295

The GMC Sierra Pro has a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Upgrading to the 5.3-liter V8, 10-speed automatic powertrain adds $1,940. The Sierra Pro’s standard color is white, but other color choices cost an additional $495. Likewise, opting for more stylish wheels requires an extra appearance package or a $350 upcharge.

Similar to the Ram 1500 Tradesman, the 2023 GMC Sierra Pro offers several group and package upgrades, including the following:

• Graphite Edition – $4,175
• Pro Value Package – $965
• 1SA Safety Plus Package – $785
• Convenience Package – 1,070
• X31 Off-Road Package – $945
• GMC Protection Package – $450
• Snow Plow Prep Package – $400
• Trailering Package – $395
• Connectivity and Entertainment Package – $3,825

You should note, however, that not every package is available with every model configuration. 

Is the 2023 Ram 1500 a better value than the 2023 GMC Sierra Pro?

While the Ram 1500 Tradesman carries a lower starting price than the GMC Sierra Pro, U.S. News also rates it higher overall, including a large point gap in favor of the Ram 1500’s interior. In addition, the Ram posts a better fuel economy rating, standard cruise control, and variable-speed intermittent wipers. As far as entry-level four-door trucks go, the lower-end Ram options beat the GMC Sierra Pro.