In some of the expert review circles, the 2020 Ram 1500 is the clear victor this year, in the full-size truck segment. In a few ‘best of’ lists for this year’s pickup contenders, the Ford F-150, to the surprise of many, didn’t manage to even make an appearance.

Curiously, having spent the last few years as America’s best-selling truck, the F-150 just hasn’t caught the attention of many reviewers this time around. But the gurus at U.S. News & World Report Cars aren’t afraid to put Ford back on top and ahead of the Ram 1500, even if it’s only by 0.1 point on the scorecard.

Apples to apples comparison of these top pickups

The 2020 Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 shake out to have a lot in common. Both earn bragging rights with infotainment, Ford with its Sync and Ram with its updated Uconnect 5 platforms, although Ram’s screen is a tad larger.

Both pickups offer a range of cabin options, although Ram discontinued its regular cab. The Ford F-150 brings six different powertrain options from which to choose, which is robust in comparison to the Ram 1500’s three variations.

But Ram’s 3.6L V6 engine is reported to be better than Ford’s at towing, in fuel economy, and in performance. Both models present six-cylinder diesel engines, for those consumers who need them.

Pricing is similar throughout both model trucks, from base to high-end trims, although the Ford variations tend to be a tad higher in MSRP.

The Ram 1500 is a fan and critic favorite

The 2020 Ram 1500 is getting a great deal of attention from reviewers and auto industry experts. In part, the Ram is introducing a fresh design, that includes a unique style and significant upgrades. Some suggest it now has a class-leading interior overall.

Critics like the idea of headlight design changes at the higher-level trims, too, signifying a plushier and more handsome appearance. The V8 engines have a newly introduced feature that Ram calls eTorque. This quasi-hybrid system adds an extra 130 lb-ft of torque and is reported to improve gas mileage ratings.

The Ram 1500 also scored well in safety and earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, beating out the predominantly ‘good’ scores for the F-150.

U.S. News & World Report weighs in, and the 2020 Ford F-150 stands out

Many of the auto industry experts are singing the praises of the Ram 1500 this year. But U.S. News & World Report scores the class and ranks the 2020 Ford F-150 at the top. Ford is no stranger to its view from the head of the full-size pickup segment, and this review suggests it deserves to stay there.

The F-150 scores a 9.1, which beats the Ram 1500’s 9.0 total score. The gurus say the F-150 continues to be the total package, with ideal towing and hauling capability, and all the industry best in tech and comforts. The F-150 still has one of the highest predicted reliability scores, too.

It may fall short with style, but it still offers more engine options, trims, and cabin sizes than most. The U.S. News World Report Cars experts also remind consumers, nothing outperforms the beast mode of the F-150 Raptor, either.

When you’re ready to visit the dealership for a test drive, it may be best to sample both pickups. The Ram 1500 is getting all the buzz right now and rightfully so.

But the Ford F-150 is still a comparable, all-around truck worth considering. And with its robust menu of available options, far more extensive than the Ram, Ford makes it easier to carve out the perfect truck for your work and lifestyle needs.