2025 Ford F-350 vs. F-250 Trucks: Which Is Right for You?

April 19th, 2025 by

When it comes to pickup trucks that can handle tough jobs, two of the most popular choices are the Ford F-250 and the Ford F-350. These models have a reputation for being some of the best towers and haulers in their class, and they’ve become reliable workhorses for their owners. While at first glance, these vehicles may seem identical, there are some key differences that you’ll want to know before you decide which one to get. Below, we’ll explore the F-250’s and F-350’s specs to help you decide which model is right for you.

Towing and Payload Capabilities

Ford F-250 vs F-350 Superduty trucks

Two of the biggest considerations when choosing between the F-350 and F-250 are the towing and payload capacities. While both trucks have the same engine and powertrain options available, the towing capacities vary. Here’s what you can expect between the two models in terms of towing capacity:

Engine F-250 SRW  F-350 SRW 
6.7L V-8 Turbo Diesel 15,500-22,000 pounds 20,000-23,200 pounds
6.7L High Output V-8 Turbo Diesel 18,200-22,000 pounds 20,000-25,000 pounds
6.8L V-8 Gas 13,800-17,300 pounds 13,700-18,100 pounds
7.3L V-8 Gas 16,400-18,200 pounds 17,800-19,500 pounds

As for payload, we look at the truck’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum weight a vehicle can carry safely, including passengers, cargo, fuel, and even the weight of the vehicle. You don’t want to exceed the GVWR, as it can lead to serious safety risks and potential damage to the truck. For the F-250 and F-350, the maximum GVWR depends on a few factors, including the powertrain, the size of the tires, and the size of the cab.

For the F-250, the lowest GVWR comes when you have the 6.8L engine setup, with a rating of 10,000 pounds. You can improve the GVWR on the F-250 to a maximum of 11,400 pounds when you opt for the 6.7L High Output diesel engine and either the four-wheel-drive (4WD) Super Cab or 4WD Crew Cab.

The F-350, meanwhile, has higher GVWR ratings. The minimum for the F-350, which features 17-inch tires and a 6.8L engine, is 10,200 pounds. The maximum is 11,499 pounds, which you’ll get with either of the diesel engines and the 4WD Crew Cab setup.

Design and Comfort Features

Another key consideration is how enjoyable a truck is to drive. Luckily, the F-250 and F-350 are very similar in terms of design and comfort features. Both models have the same trim levels available: the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited. Which trim you select will determine whether you end up with more of a work truck or a luxury hauler.

On the inside, both models have a spacious, stylish interior with similar upgrades available, including a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and leather-trimmed seating. Each truck also comes with the SYNC 4 infotainment system, which you can access through the large 12-inch touch screen. Finally, practical features such as a tailgate step and a deployable bed step make both models suitable for a wide range of tasks.

Cost of Ownership and Value

According to CarEdge and Edmunds, the cost of ownership and value are very similar between the F-250 and the F-350. Here’s a quick comparison between the two:

Cost Ford F-250 Ford F-350
Maintenance after five years $4,944 $4,968
Insurance costs $2,548 per year $2,548 per year
Value depreciation after five years $32,656 $27,830
Fuel costs (average for a large truck) $218 per month $218 per month

Customer and Expert Reviews

According to Edmunds, “The F-250 truck provides more than enough capability for most truck owners and is one notch below the more robust F-350. The F-250 is an excellent heavy-duty (HD) truck thanks to its lineup of four powerful engines that provide class-leading performance and its long list of helpful towing and hauling tech features like Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch. The F-350’s impressive towing and hauling capacities don’t make it just a powerhouse. It also offers many features that help make towing and hauling easier, including the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Onboard Scales.”

In addition, Kelley Blue Book gave the 2025 Ford Super Duty 4.7 stars, and Car and Driver gave it 4.2 stars, noting, “As one of our favorites in its segment, the Ford Super Duty has earned a spot on our Editors’ Choice list for 2025.”

Which Model Is Right for You: F-350 or F-250?

So, which model is right for you? It all comes down to what sort of performance you need from your truck. The F-250 offers a significant boost in terms of towing and payload capacity over the F-150, but it still may not be enough for some. If you need even more power, then the F-350 is the choice for you.

We highly recommend taking some time to consider your personal or professional needs when it comes to towing and hauling, then see which truck best aligns with those needs. The interior amenities, exterior styling, and driving experience are essentially the same between the 2025 Ford F-250 and the Ford F-350, so your decision comes down to your personal power requirements.

Explore the 2025 Ford F-350 and F-250 in Kalispell, Montana

To learn more about either the 2025 Ford F-250 or 2025 Ford F-350, visit us at Kalispell Ford. Our knowledgeable sales staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide expert advice as to which model will best suit your needs. We know the importance of having a reliable pickup truck out here in Montana, and we’ll work with you to find the right model at an affordable price.

Contact us today to schedule a visit, or stop by our dealership at your earliest convenience. Also, be sure to check out our latest Ford specials to see if we’re offering discounts on either the F-250 or F-350.

Posted in Ford Model Features