Because they have so much to offer, choosing between the 2021 Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 can be tough. Both full-size trucks provide a long list of options, including rugged powertrains and luxurious trim models, which can feel overwhelming at first. But our comparison guide is here to help you select the best light-duty truck for your needs.
Engine Options: 2021 Ford F-150
Both the F-150 and the Silverado 1500 offer a range of trim models, body styles, and powertrains. But it’s the F-150 that offers both more engine options and greater power.
Of its six engines, the F-150’s new hybrid powertrain is the most powerful. It combines a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with a battery-powered electric motor for a total output of 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque. This engine is also the F-150’s thriftiest option, helping this Ford truck earn up to 25 mpg combined.
The Silverado 1500 has four engines available. Its most powerful option is a 5.3-liter V8, which helps you perform big jobs with 355 horses and 383 pound-feet of torque. For the Silverado’s thriftiest performance, choose the turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine, which helps the Silverado achieve up to 27 mpg combined.
Workhorse Capabilities: 2021 Ford F-150
If you need a light-duty truck that’s capable of moving serious weight, the F-150 is at your service. Depending on powertrain, body style, and equipment, the F-150 can tow max loads of 14,000 pounds. This Ford truck can also handle impressive payloads — up to 3,325 pounds — so you’ll make fewer trips hauling work supplies.
While the 2021 Silverado 1500 isn’t quite as strong, it’s still pretty capable. Tow ratings vary depending on body style and equipment, but Chevy’s light-duty truck can tow up to 13,300 pounds. Max payloads reach 2,280 pounds.
Tech Gear: 2021 Ford F-150
This year, the F-150 is rolling out some tech features you won’t find anywhere else. The new Active Drive Assist system includes automated driving capabilities, for hands-free performance on thousands of miles of pre-mapped highways. The new Pro Power Onboard power station provides up to 7.2 kilowatts to run power tools and charge batteries. And the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system returns to help you guide a trailer in the desired direction.
Although the Chevy Silverado 1500 doesn’t offer hands-free driving or an onboard power station, it does provide all the usual infotainment and safety aids. Just like the F-150, the Silverado 1500 provides touch-screen infotainment and complete smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And driver safety aids, like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation, help you avoid trouble.
Friendliest Price: 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
If saving money is your main goal, the Silverado 1500 can help you out. With a starting MSRP of $34,900, it’s slightly more affordable than the F-150, which starts at $36,650.
Final Tally
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will save you a little bit of money, but the newly redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 is the better truck. Choose the new F-150 for its modern configurations, extra muscle, and cutting-edge tech features.