What is the difference between a ball hitch and a receiver hitch?

A receiver hitch is the frame-mounted opening on a vehicle that accepts a detachable ball mount and other towing accessories; a ball hitch refers to the actual towing ball (and its mounting) used to connect a trailer to that setup. In practice, most towing configurations combine both: a receiver hitch on the vehicle and a ball-mount with a hitch ball inserted into that receiver to pull a trailer.

What is a receiver hitch?

Before listing the main features, here's a quick overview of what you get with a receiver hitch. The following points cover the essentials drivers should know.

• Definition and purpose: A receiver hitch is a frame-mounted component that provides a square opening to accept hitch accessories, most commonly a ball mount.


• Mounting and compatibility: It bolts to the vehicle frame and comes in standard receiver sizes, typically 1-1/4 inches or 2 inches, with higher-capacity options in larger vehicles.


• Class ratings: Hitches are categorized by class (I–V) that indicate tongue weight and gross trailer weight ratings.


• Accessories and versatility: The receiver accepts various attachments, including ball mounts, bike racks, and cargo carriers, via a hitch pin or locking pin.


• Installation and maintenance: Proper torque on mounting bolts and pins, plus regular inspection for wear and rust, are advised.

In short, the receiver hitch is the mounting framework that enables towing by accepting interchangeable hitch accessories.

What is a ball hitch?

Here are the core components and considerations for a ball hitch system. The following items cover the main points you should know before buying or towing.

• Ball size options: Common diameters are 1-7/8 inches (light duty), 2 inches (most common for light to mid-duty), and 2-5/16 inches (heavy-duty). The ball size must match the trailer coupler.


• Ball mount and shank: The ball sits on a ball mount (shank) that slides into the receiver hitch or, in some cases, bolts to a bumper hitch. The mount can be fixed or adjustable in height and rise/drop.


• Trailer connection: The trailer's coupler fits over the ball and locks in place; a locking pin ensures the ball mount stays secured while towing.


• Weight ratings: The ball hitch system is rated for tongue weight and gross trailer weight, and must be compatible with the vehicle and hitch receiver class.


• Safety and maintenance: Check for wear on the ball, rust, and proper lubrication; ensure the locking mechanism is secure and that the ball is properly tightened.

Ball hitches are the actual towing connector—the ball and its mount—that couples to the trailer and must be matched to the trailer’s coupler and the vehicle’s towing specs.

Key differences at a glance

These points contrast the two components in practical terms.

• Role: The receiver hitch provides the mounting framework; the ball hitch provides the actual towing connection (the ball).


• Components: Receiver hitch is the tube in the vehicle chassis; ball hitch comprises the ball, ball mount, and coupler interface.


• Interchangeability: A receiver can carry various accessories; a ball hitch is typically paired with a compatible hitch ball of a given size.


• Sizing and ratings: Receiver hitches are rated by class and tongue weight; ball hitch systems are rated by tongue weight and gross trailer weight, but the ball size must match the trailer coupler.

In practice, towing typically uses a receiver hitch with a ball mount and ball assembly; choosing the right combination depends on the trailer and vehicle specifications.

Choosing the right setup for your needs

Guidance for selecting a receiver and ball hitch that fit your vehicle and trailers.

• Check your vehicle’s receiver size and class rating; most passenger vehicles use 1-1/4" or 2" receivers and a Class II or Class III for typical trailers.


• Determine the gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW) you will tow to pick the appropriate class and mount capacity.


• Select the matching ball size to your trailer coupler (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16").


• Consider additional features like an adjustable-height ball mount, anti-rattle devices, and locking pins for security.

With the right receiver and ball hitch pairing, you’ll ensure safe towing and avoid compatibility issues.

Summary

The receiver hitch is the vehicle-mounted frame that accepts a ball mount and other hitch accessories; the ball hitch is the actual ball-and-mount assembly that forms the towing connection to the trailer. Most towing setups combine both: a receiver hitch on the vehicle and a ball mount with a hitch ball of the appropriate size that fits your trailer. By matching receiver size, class rating, and ball size to your trailer’s coupler and your vehicle’s towing capacity, you can tow safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between a ball mount and a hitch receiver?

Ball Mounts vs Hitches
The big difference is that a trailer hitch includes a ball mount as part of a larger mechanism. While the stand-alone ball mount is cheaper and easier to install, the e2® hitch from Fastway Trailer offers better sway control and weight distribution.

What type of hitch is best for towing?

Types of Trailer Hitches

• Class I & II: Ideal for small trailers, bike racks, and cargo carriers.
• Class III: Suitable for medium-sized trailers, such as boats and small campers.
• Class IV & V: Perfect for heavy-duty towing, including large trailers and equipment.

What is the difference between a receiver hitch and a tow hitch?

A hitch receiver is a specific type of tow hitch that is permanently mounted to a vehicle's frame and features a square tube, or "receiver," into which various accessories are inserted. A hitch is a broader term for the entire towing system, which can include a hitch receiver, a ball mount, a hitch ball, and a trailer coupler. The receiver is the vehicle-side component, while the "hitch" is often used to refer to the accessories that connect to the receiver to actually pull the trailer.
 
This video explains the difference between a hitch and a hitch receiver: 59sBig Truck Big RVYouTube · Nov 2, 2024
Hitch receiver

• What it is: A permanently mounted, vehicle-side component that has a square tube or "receiver". 
• Function: Provides a standardized and versatile connection point for a variety of towing accessories. 
• Examples: It's the tube on the back of a truck where you slide in a ball mount or other accessories. 

Hitch

• What it is: A general term for any device used for towing. It can also refer to the specific attachment that goes into the receiver. 
• Function: The system that physically connects and pulls the load. 
• Examples: A ball mount with a hitch ball is the most common example, but it also includes other types like gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitches. 

Analogy
Think of the hitch receiver as a "garage" on the back of your vehicle. The "hitch" (like a ball mount) is the tool you put inside the garage to do the job. This system allows you to use one receiver with many different attachments (hitches).

What is the 80% rule when towing?

Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.