Loading

Are F250 and F350 the same-size?

They are not exactly the same size. The F-250 and F-350 share a common platform and many exterior dimensions, but the F-350 typically carries a higher GVWR and payload, and the DRW (dual rear-wheel) variant adds a wider rear footprint. In most single-rear-wheel configurations, the trucks look very similar in length and width, but their weight ratings and rear-wheel setups drive the size differences in capability.


What “size” means in this comparison


In this context, size encompasses more than total length. It includes payload capacity, towing capability, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and the physical footprint created by the rear-wheel configuration (single vs dual rear wheels) and cab/bed combinations. The following sections explain how these factors play out between the F-250 and F-350.


Platform and exterior footprint


Both trucks ride on Ford’s Super Duty platform and share many body dimensions in common configurations. When you select the same cab and bed setup, the overall exterior length and width are usually very similar. The most noticeable size differences arise from weight ratings and the rear-wheel arrangement rather than from a dramatic change in the outside silhouette.


Key size and capability differences


Here is a quick comparison of the main size-related attributes that buyers consider:



  • GVWR and payload capacity: The F-350 generally has a higher GVWR and payload than the F-250, and the DRW version offers the highest payload capacity.

  • Rear-wheel configuration: The F-250 is typically sold as SRW (single rear wheel). The F-350 can be SRW or DRW (dual rear wheels), and the DRW option increases the rear footprint and weight-handling capability.

  • Towing and hitching envelope: Both are capable heavy-duty pickups, but the F-350’s higher GVWR and axle ratings typically translate to greater towing/payload potential in the same drivetrain and cab/bed configuration.

  • Cab and bed options: In practice, both models can be configured with similar cabs (e.g., SuperCrew, SuperCab) and bed lengths, so exterior length can be very close across many setups.


In short, while the F-250 and F-350 share engineering and appearance in many configurations, the F-350—especially in DRW form—presents a higher weight rating and a larger rear footprint. This difference matters most for heavy-duty workloads and payload demands.


Dimensions and configurations you should know


Understanding where these trucks differ helps buyers pick the right model for work, towing, or daily driving. Keep in mind that exact numbers depend on the cab style, bed length, drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), and whether the truck is SRW or DRW.


Shared elements


Both trucks can be configured with similar cabs (e.g., SuperCrew) and bed lengths, and they share the same overall exterior silhouette in many configurations. This is why they can look nearly identical at a glance.


What changes with the F-350


The F-350 offers a higher GVWR and payload, and in DRW form it gains a second rear axle and a wider rear footprint, which affects handling and space requirements. These differences translate to stronger heavy-duty capability, even when the outside dimensions appear similar in many setups.


Summary


The F-250 and F-350 are not the same size. They share a common platform and many exterior dimensions, especially in SRW form, but the F-350—particularly the DRW variant—offers higher GVWR and payload, and a larger rear footprint. For buyers, the key takeaway is to check GVWR/payload and whether you need SRW or DRW configurations, rather than assuming identical size based on the model name.

What is the advantage of the F-350 over the F-250?


At a glance, these two trucks look similar—but dig deeper, and the difference between the Ford F-250 and F-350 becomes clear. Specifically, the Ford F-350 is designed to handle heavier loads more effectively than the Ford F-250. Ford F-250 Max Payload: Up to 4,246 lbs. Ford F-350 Max Payload: Up to 8,000 lbs.



Are F-250 and F-350 frames the same?


No, F-250 and F-350 frames are not the same; F-350 frames are built with stronger, more reinforced materials to handle heavier loads, while F-250 frames are designed for less demanding use. While the two trucks may share a similar cab and chassis, the frame differences are intended to give the F-350 superior structural integrity under heavy loads. 
Key differences between F-250 and F-350 frames

  • Reinforcement: F-350 frames are more reinforced with stronger materials, which improves their structural integrity and ability to handle heavy loads. 
  • C-channel height/thickness: On some models, F-350s have taller and thicker C-channel rails compared to F-250s. 
  • Rear axle and suspension: The F-350 typically has a more robust rear suspension system and a larger rear block, which provides greater load support and towing stability compared to the F-250. 

Overlap and shared components
  • Identical frames: Some model years and configurations may use the same frame, with the only difference being suspension components and gearing, such as certain F-250 and single-rear-wheel F-350 models. 
  • Shared components: F-250 and F-350 trucks often share the same cab, front axle, and sometimes the same transmission and drive shafts. 
  • Trim levels: Trim levels, such as Lariat and XLT, are typically the same for both F-250 and F-350 models. 



Is there a size difference between F-250 and F-350?


Length is the same between F-250 vs. F-350 trucks in the same configurations (like the 231.8-inch long body of all F-250 and F-350 SRW Regular Cab 8-foot box models). Height does vary between the same-configuration 2025 F-350 and F-250 trucks, but typically only by a fraction of an inch.



What is the difference between the F-250 and the F-350 chassis?


The main difference is that the F-350 frame is stronger and more reinforced to support higher payloads and towing capacities, while the F-250 frame is lighter and optimized for everyday hauling and towing. Key distinctions include the F-350 often having a more robust rear spring pack and potentially a larger rear axle, contributing to its greater load-carrying capability. 
Frame and suspension differences

  • Reinforcement: The F-350 has a stronger, more reinforced frame to handle heavier loads compared to the F-250. 
  • Rear springs: The most common difference is in the rear leaf spring pack, with the F-350 typically having more springs and a higher rating than the F-250. Some F-250s, however, have the same spring pack as an F-350 if equipped with specific packages like the Tremor, notes this YouTube video. 
  • Rear axle: The F-350 may have a stronger axle, such as a Sterling 11.50-inch ring gear compared to the Sterling 10.50-inch in some F-250s, although this can vary by configuration. 
  • Suspension blocks: The F-350 often has a larger rear block than the F-250, which helps increase the payload capacity. 
  • Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) option: Only the F-350 is available in a dual rear wheel configuration, which provides superior stability for the heaviest loads. 

Performance and handling differences
  • Ride quality: The F-250 often provides a more comfortable ride when unloaded due to its lower curb weight. The F-350's stiffer, heavy-duty frame can result in a firmer ride when not carrying a heavy load. 
  • Maneuverability: The F-250 is generally more maneuverable, while the dual rear wheel F-350 models have a wider turning radius. 
  • Loading capacity: The F-350's reinforced frame and suspension allow it to handle significantly higher payload and towing capacities than the F-250. 

What to consider when choosing
  • Choose the F-250 if: You need a heavy-duty truck for daily use, moderate towing, and hauling, and a more comfortable unloaded ride is a priority. 
  • Choose the F-350 if: You need maximum towing and payload capacity, such as for frequent heavy-duty commercial work or towing very large trailers. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.