Shopping for a full-size pickup? Chances are you’ve got both the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Chevy Silverado on your list. But of these two pickup trucks, which is the better option for you? Let’s find out.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Chevy Silverado: Engine options

If you want a pickup truck that offers plenty of options when it comes to what’s under the hood, you’ll be pleased to know that both the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Chevy Silverado offer no shortage of options to choose from. 

Consider the 2021 Ford F-150, which is standard with a 3.3-liter V6 engine. This year’s model can also be had with a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel engine, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a 5.0-liter V8, and a 2.7-liter V6. Also available is an all-new 3.5-liter PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 engine.

As for the 2021 Chevy Silverado? Take your pick from engine options like a Duramax 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine, a 6.2-liter V8, two different 5.8-liter V8 engines, a 4.3-liter V6, and a 2.7-liter turbo engine.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Chevy Silverado: Towing capacity

Now, it’s important to consider what’s under the hood of your next pickup. At the end of the day, your choice of engine will help determine just how much your pickup can tow. And if you’re after a pickup that can tow a considerable amount of weight? You’re going to need a pickup with a strong engine under its hood.

Fortunately, both the 2021 Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado are more than capable of towing a sizeable amount. Consider a 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and the Max Trailer Tow Package, and this year’s new model boasts a max tow rating of 14,000-pounds. 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado, on the other hand, can tow a maximum of 13,300-pounds when outfitted with a 6.2-liter V8. While that does mean the Silverado will have you towing less than the F-150, a maximum towing capacity of 13,300-pounds is nothing to scoff at.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Chevy Silverado: Reliability ratings

Chances are you want a reliable pickup. The bad news is that Consumer Reports didn’t give these pickups the most impressive ratings. In fact, while it gave the 2021 Chevy Silverado a one out of five predicted reliability rating, it gave the Ford F-150 a two out of five predicted reliability rating. 

The good news is that J.D. Power gave both pickups a ‘Great’ quality and reliability rating. RepairPal also gave both trucks an ‘Above Average’ reliability rating. RepairPal added that major repairs are infrequent for the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado too.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Chevy Silverado: Trim levels and features

Let’s talk trim levels. While towing power and overall reliability is important, it’s also important to consider what types of features you want in your next truck. Fortunately, both pickups are available in a wide variety of trim levels, each of which comes stocked with features.

Take, for example, the range-topping F-150 Limited, which benefits from features like Pro Power Onboard, full leather seating, a 12-Inch digital productivity screen, and a wireless charging pad. Meanwhile, Kelley Blue Book reports that the Chevy Silverado offers up sought-after features like a new Multi-Flex tailgate and an advanced multi-camera trailering system.

Which full-size pickup is the better choice for you?

Choosing between these pickups doesn’t have to be difficult. Take into consideration what type of towing power you’re looking for in your next pickup truck, along with what features you’d like to see. Then? Get behind the wheel for a test drive.