What is the difference between ST-SLT and Laramie?

The ST is the base Ram trim, SLT sits a notch above with more convenience features, and Laramie represents a higher-end, more luxurious option. If you want barebones capability, ST; for a balanced mix of comfort and function, SLT; for premium interior and tech, Laramie.

Where ST, SLT, and Laramie Fit in the Ram Lineup

In Ram pickup lineups, ST has traditionally served as the entry-level work-trim, SLT adds mid-range comfort and tech, and Laramie pushes into the premium segment with upgraded materials and features. It’s important to note that trim names and exact equipment can vary by model year and market, so always verify the year-specific brochure for precise details.

Typical ST features

• Basic interior materials (often cloth upholstery) and durable finishes


• Manual or simpler power controls; fewer creature comforts


• Standard radio/infotainment setup with essential connectivity


• Steel wheels or basic alloy wheels; fewer chrome accents


• 2WD configuration commonly available; fewer advanced options

ST emphasizes value and capability over luxury, focusing on straightforward functionality for work and daily driving.

What SLT Adds Over ST

SLT builds on ST by adding more convenience, better materials, and more standard tech. It’s the mid-level trim designed to improve daily usability without entering luxury territory.

Typical SLT features

• Upgraded interior materials and enhanced seating options


• Improved infotainment system with larger display and more connectivity


• Power accessories (windows/locks), possibly remote keyless entry


• Alloy wheels and more chrome or premium exterior trim


• Additional driver aids and comfort features compared to ST

In brief, SLT makes everyday driving more comfortable and convenient without stepping into luxury-grade equipment.

What Laramie Adds Relative to SLT

Laramie is the premium trim in many Ram configurations, delivering leather or higher-grade interior materials, comfort-focused features, and more advanced technology. It’s aimed at buyers who want a more refined, feature-rich pickup with stronger resale appeal.

Typical Laramie features

• Leather seating surfaces or upgraded premium upholstery


• Heated front seats and often a heated steering wheel; often dual-zone climate control


• Power-adjustable front seats, sometimes with memory settings


• Advanced infotainment options (larger touchscreen, navigation, premium audio)


• Exterior refinements such as bigger wheels and chrome accents


• More comprehensive safety and driver-assist features, depending on year and package

Overall, Laramie represents a substantial upgrade in interior quality, comfort, and technology compared with SLT and ST.

Practical Considerations When Choosing

Choosing among ST, SLT, and Laramie depends on your priorities: budget, daily comfort, technology needs, and how much you value interior refinement versus utility. Here are quick guidelines to consider:

• Budget-conscious buyers favor ST for lowest price and essential capability.


• For a balanced mix of features and cost, SLT is the common middle ground with better comfort and tech.


• If you prioritize comfort, premium materials, and advanced tech, Laramie is the strongest choice, often with higher resale value.

Note that exact features and availability can vary by model year and market. Always consult the specific brochure or dealer configuration for the year you’re considering to confirm which features come standard or as options.

Summary

Across Ram pickups, ST serves as the base level, SLT adds mid-range comfort and tech, and Laramie delivers premium interior quality and enhanced technology. The differences center on interior materials, seating comfort, infotainment and safety features, exterior styling touches, and price. For buyers, the decision typically comes down to how much luxury and technology they want versus keeping costs lower.

What does SLT mean on Ram?

In a Ram truck, SLT stands for Special Luxury Trim. It is a trim level that offers upgrades over the base models, such as chrome accents, a more comfortable interior, and various convenience and appearance features. While it was once a mid-to-high level trim, it has since been replaced by other trims like the Big Horn and Express in newer models, though it still exists in classic or older configurations. 

• Enhanced features: The SLT trim adds features over the base Tradesman or SXT, including chrome accents, heated mirrors, and upgraded stereo systems. 
• Comfort and convenience: It generally includes more comfortable cloth seats, carpeted floors, and options like Sirius radio, keyless entry, and steering wheel controls. 
• Position in the lineup: It is a step up from the base models and provides a good balance of features and price. In newer models, this position is now filled by trims like the Big Horn. 

What is the difference between SLT and Laramie?

The main difference is that Laramie is a higher-end trim with more luxury and premium features, while SLT is a mid-level trim focused more on utility. Laramie models typically include features like premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, advanced infotainment systems, and more interior and exterior upgrades, while SLT models have more basic cloth seats and fewer standard convenience features, though many options can be added. 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the exterior features of different Ram models, including the SLT and Laramie: 59sMacIver DodgeYouTube · Apr 3, 2013
SLT

• Focus: Utility and functionality. 
• Interior: Typically features cloth seats and less premium materials, though higher-end options can be added. 
• Standard features: Less emphasis on premium comfort and technology compared to Laramie. For example, it has manual air conditioning and cloth seats. 
• Availability: Historically, SLT models have been available with a wider variety of cab and box configurations. 

Laramie

• Focus: A mix of ruggedness, luxury, and technology. 
• Interior: Generally has more premium materials like leather-appointed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable pedals. 
• Standard features: Comes with a more advanced infotainment system, like a larger Uconnect system, and dual-zone climate control. 
• Availability: Includes premium exterior elements and features like remote start and LED lighting that are not standard on lower trims. 

This video discusses the differences in interior luxury between the Ram Laramie and other trims: 1mJB ReviewsYouTube · Dec 29, 2024
Which one should you choose?

• Choose SLT if: You want a capable truck with more basic features and don't need the premium amenities of a higher trim, or if you want to customize it yourself later. 
• Choose Laramie if: You want a more luxurious and comfortable ride with advanced technology and are willing to pay more for the upgraded features. 

This video explains how to choose between different Ram trims like the Laramie and Limited: 45sMacIver DodgeYouTube · Mar 31, 2013

Which Ram trim is the best?

The "best" Ram trim depends on your needs, but the Tungsten is the most luxurious, the Rebel is best for off-roading, and the Limited offers a high-end balance of comfort and technology. For a work-focused truck, the Tradesman is the most budget-friendly option. 
Best for luxury and premium features 

• Tungsten: This is the most luxurious and expensive trim, featuring premium leather seating, a suede headliner, a massive 14.4-inch touchscreen, and 24-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage. 
• Limited: A step down from the Tungsten, the Limited still offers premium features like massaging front seats, a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment system, and available RamBox cargo management. 

Best for off-roading 

• Rebel: Specifically designed for off-road use, the Rebel includes a raised suspension, Bilstein shocks, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and an electronic locking rear axle.
• TRX: For extreme off-roading, the TRX is the top performer with a 702-hp engine and advanced suspension systems like the Bilstein Black Hawk e² shocks. 

Best for work and value 

• Tradesman: This is the most affordable and basic trim, built for heavy-duty work and fleet use, but still offers enough power and capability for the job. 
• Tradesman HFE: An upgrade from the base Tradesman, this trim adds key features like 20-inch chrome wheels, wheel-to-wheel side steps, and a Uconnect 5 with an 8.4-inch display. 

Balanced and refined 

• Big Horn: A good all-around choice that provides a more refined feel than the Tradesman while still being functional and capable, ideal for families or small businesses. 
• Laramie: Focuses on comfort for daily driving and long road trips, featuring leather-trimmed seats, power-adjustable seats, and a 12-inch touchscreen as standard. 

Which Ram to stay away from?

5 RAM 1500 Years To Avoid
If you're looking for reliable trucks, steer clear of the 2003 Dodge RAM 1500, as well as the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2019 RAM 1500. These models are plagued by problems in critical components, like engines, steering, braking, airbags, electrical systems, and fuel systems.