The Super Duty pickup is Ford's ultimate workhorse. But how does it fare against the RAM's Heavy Duty models? So you know which truck gives you the best bang for your buck, let's break down the differences between the two.
Key Takeaways:
- The SuperCab Short Box returns for the Super Duty, and the Tremor lineup finally gets a diesel engine option.
- With the Super Duty, you have hauling capacity that reaches 8,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 40,000 lbs.
- The RAM HD lineup adds two trims for 2026.
Feature Updates for the Super Duty vs. RAM HD
The Super Duty now features the Lariat Premium package--Ford grouped its towing tech into a bundle for the Lariat Crew Cab 4WD. The SuperCab Short Box returns to the lineup with a 6.5-foot bed. Off-road fans also win big, as the Tremor trim finally gets a diesel engine. Dually models pick up STX styling cues, and tech-minded buyers can now opt for a 7-year connectivity plan via a one-time payment.
Following a major refresh last year, the 2026 Ram HD introduces the new 2500 Black Express and 2500 Warlock trims built on the base platform. The Black Express comes as a Crew Cab with rear- or four-wheel drive and a short or long bed, while the Warlock is strictly a Crew Cab 4WD short bed. You can option either package with the 6.4-liter gas V-8 or the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel. Additionally, all gas-powered models now get a new 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty starting this year.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Super Duty |
2026 RAM HD |
| Lariat Premium package bundles trailer tech on Crew Cab 4WD |
New 2500 Black Express trim |
| SuperCab with 6.5-foot short box returns to lineup |
New 2500 Warlock trim |
| Tremor package is now available with a diesel engine |
10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for all gas-powered models |
| STX Appearance Package now offered on Dually trucks; New 7-year connectivity plan available for single purchase |
No other changes for 2026 |
Engines and Drivetrains of the Super Duty and Ram HD
The Super Duty's engines start with the XL trim's 6.8-liter V-8 cranking out 405 horsepower and 445 pound-feet. The XLT and higher trims get a 7.3-liter V-8, generating 430 horsepower and 485 pound-feet. The optional 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel is available as a standard version delivering 475 horsepower and 1,050 pound-feet, and a high-output model with 500 horsepower and 1,200 pound-feet. All engines mate with a 10-speed automatic and single- or dual-rear-wheel axle options.
Standard muscle for the Ram HD lineup comes from a 6.4-liter V-8 producing 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet. This is the only engine-and-transmission pairing for the 4WD-only Power Wagon, but other trims can be upgraded to the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel inline-six, available in rear- or four-wheel drive. This diesel engine is available on both 2500 and 3500 series trucks, generating 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet. Ram pairs all engines with an eight-speed automatic.
Comparing the Towing and Hauling Might of the Super Duty and RAM HD
Do you know which is the best heavy-duty truck for towing? The Super Duty can pull up to 30,000 pounds with a conventional hitch, 35,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel, and 40,000 pounds using a gooseneck. To keep these massive loads stable, Ford offers Trailer Navigation, which maps out routes according to trailer size, and onboard cargo scales with a Smart Hitch feature. And when it comes to raw payload capacity, the Super Duty is a monster, supporting up to 8,000 pounds in the truck bed.
The Ram 3500 maxes out at a 36,610-pound towing limit, though hitting that number requires the turbo-diesel engine. (Conversely, reaching the Ram 3500's peak 7,590-pound payload rating requires staying with the standard gas V-8.) For the Ram 2500, the diesel engine allows a 20,000-pound max towing capacity, while the gas engine reaches its highest payload of 4,420 pounds.
Which Pickup Should Be Your New Work Companion?
The Ford Super Duty is still the top choice for those who need a serious work companion, thanks to its versatility and sheer power. Come to Brighton Ford to experience its power during a test drive!
