The 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Ram 1500 are both full-size pickups that have plenty to offer. But how do these two pickups actually compare? After all, both options offer very different things.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Ram 1500: Engine options

Both the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Ram 1500 offer several options when it comes to what’s under the hood. The F-150 offers not only a 5.0-liter V8 engine but also multiple V6 engines. The 2021 Ford F-150 is even available with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 hybrid engine. Producing an impressive 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, Kelley Blue Book reports that the F-150’s available hybrid engine is the most powerful of the bunch.

Engine options for the 2021 Ram 1500, on the other hand, include a 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid technology, a 5.7-liter V8 with or without eTorque mild-hybrid technology, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, and a 6.2-liter supercharged V8. With an astounding 702-hp to its name, the Ram 1500’s available supercharged V8 is the most powerful engine this year’s model is available with.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Ram 1500: Towing capacity

Sure, engine options are important. Chances are, though, you want to know how much the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Ram 1500 can tow. And why not? That’s what pickups are meant to be used for, after all. Fortunately, both of these models can tow a considerable amount. 

With its 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid technology engine under the hood, the 2021 Ram 1500 can tow a maximum of 7,730-pounds. If you need additional towing power, opt for the V8, which will have you pulling up to 11,610-pounds. Upgrade to the V8 with eTorque, and you can tow up to 12,750-pounds. And if you’re after a diesel pickup? You can count on the Ram 1500’s available diesel engine to tow up to 12,560-pounds.

The Ford F-150 offers plenty of towing power too. At its weakest, the F-150 will have you pulling a maximum of 8,200-pounds. Opt for a diesel-powered F-150, and you can expect to tow a maximum of 12,100-pounds. But for even more towing power? You’re going to want an F-150 with the 3.5-liter V6 and the Max Trailer Tow Package, both of which give the F-150 a max tow rating of 14,000-pounds, making it stronger than the Ram 1500.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Ram 1500: Reliability ratings

Let’s talk about reliability. After all, reliability ratings are important when it comes to shopping for a new pickup. Unfortunately, neither of these pickups earned very high predicted reliability ratings. Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Ford F-150 a two out of five predicted reliability rating. Unfortunately, Consumer Reports gave this year’s new Ram 1500 a similarly low score. 

The good news is that Consumer Reports gave both pickups a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. Consumer Reports says that Ram 1500 owners will be most happy with its driving experience, styling, and overall comfort. As for the F-150? Consumer Reports has yet to release any specific data as the truck is still being tested.

2021 Ford F-150 vs. 2021 Ram 1500: Available features

Of course, towing power and reliability ratings aren’t everything. Chances are, you’re after a pickup that offers plenty of creature comforts too. Fortunately, both the Ford F-150 and the new Ram 1500 do. While the Ford F-150 offers up sought-after features like an interior worksurface and premium leather seating, this year’s Ram 1500 can be decked out in lavish amenities like a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and a 10-square-foot panoramic sunroof.

Choosing between these trucks is going to take a test drive

Now, there’s no denying that both the 2021 Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500 have a lot to offer. That can make choosing the right pickup for you feel like a pretty daunting task. That’s why, in the end, we recommend taking both of these full-size pickups out for a test drive before making any final decisions.