What models are 1 2 ton pickups?
In today's market, true 1-ton pickups are led by the heavy‑duty, bed‑and‑tackle capable models such as Ford F-350 Super Duty, Ram 3500, and GM’s Silverado/Sierra 3500HD. There are no widely sold, consumer‑targeted “2-ton” pickups in the standard lineup; the two‑ton segment is served by larger commercial trucks such as the Ford F-650/750 and Ram 5500/6500, which are typically used by fleets or for specialized applications rather than everyday driving.
This article provides a clear look at what counts as a 1-ton pickup, what qualifies as 2-ton by market practice, and where today’s offerings sit in terms of payload, capability, and typical use cases.
1-ton pickup models
These models form the core of the 1-ton segment in the United States, representing the upper end of payload and towing capability in a pickup bed. Exact ratings vary by configuration, so consult official specs for precise figures.
- Ford F-350 Super Duty
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
- GMC Sierra 3500HD
- Ram 3500
These trucks are purpose-built for heavy payloads, large towing needs, and applications such as gooseneck hauling or heavy-duty work crews. The 2500-series models sit on the lighter end of the spectrum and are occasionally discussed in practice as approaching 1-ton capability depending on configuration, but the 3500 series is the primary 1-ton designation.
2-ton (and heavier) pickup alternatives
In common consumer terms, a true two‑ton pickup is not part of the standard consumer lineup. The two‑ton tier is occupied by heavier commercial/mid‑duty trucks that may be sold with bed-like configurations but are typically marketed as medium‑duty or chassis‑cab vehicles rather than conventional pickups.
- Ford F-650 / F-750 (medium‑duty trucks often used with flatbeds or service bodies)
- Ram 5500 / 6500 (heavy‑duty platform, frequently configured as cab‑and‑chassis or with service bodies)
These vehicles offer substantial payload and towing capacity, but they are generally purchased by fleets or businesses rather than individuals seeking a typical daily driver pickup. They are best understood as the commercial end of the spectrum rather than mainstream consumer pickups.
Market notes and regional variations
Definitions of “ton” can vary by region and by manufacturer. Some markets may use different labeling or class designations for heavy‑duty trucks, and payload ratings can swing significantly with cab/bed configuration, drivetrain (gas vs diesel), and whether the rear axle is single or dual. Always verify the exact GVWR, payload, and tow ratings on the specific truck you’re considering.
Summary: For buyers seeking roughly 1-ton capacity, the key models are the Ford F-350, Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD, GMC Sierra 3500HD, and Ram 3500. If you’re aiming for a true 2-ton class, you’ll typically be looking at commercial/medium‑duty trucks such as the Ford F-650/750 or Ram 5500/6500 rather than a conventional pickup truck.
In the end, the choice depends on your payload and towing needs, as well as whether you require a traditional pickup bed or a chassis‑cab setup for specialized tasks.
What are half-ton pickup trucks?
A "half-ton pickup" is a light-duty, full-size pickup truck that originally referred to a 1,000-pound (half-ton) payload capacity, though modern versions can carry significantly more. These are the most popular and common type of pickup truck, ideal for daily driving and lighter work tasks due to their comfortable ride and fuel efficiency compared to heavier-duty trucks. Examples include the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
Key characteristics
- Payload and towing capacity: While the name implies a half-ton (1,000 lb) payload, modern half-ton trucks can carry much more, often over 2,000 pounds, depending on the specific configuration. Their towing capacities also vary widely but are generally suited for lighter loads than heavy-duty trucks.
- Classification: The "half-ton" label places them in a specific class of light-duty, full-size trucks, which are larger than midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma but are not engineered for the same level of heavy-duty work as three-quarter-ton or one-ton trucks.
- Daily driving focus: They are designed to balance hauling and towing capability with a comfortable and maneuverable driving experience, making them popular for everyday use and general purposes, notes this YouTube video.
- Model examples: Common models that fall into this category include the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Toyota Tundra.
Is a Toyota Tacoma considered a half-ton truck?
No, a Toyota Tacoma is not considered a half-ton truck; it is a midsize pickup. The term "half-ton" typically refers to full-size trucks, while the Tacoma is in the smaller, more versatile midsize category, alongside vehicles like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado.
- Classification: The Tacoma is officially a midsize truck.
- "Half-ton" meaning: The "half-ton" classification is a general term for light-duty, full-size trucks with higher payload capacities than midsize trucks.
- Size difference: Midsize trucks like the Tacoma are smaller and more agile than full-size trucks, and they are not designed for the same heavy-duty hauling as full-size models.
- Toyota's lineup: Toyota's half-ton, full-size truck is the Tundra, which is larger and has a greater payload capacity than the Tacoma.
What model is a half-ton truck?
The Ram 1500, Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are an examples of half-ton trucks. Whether you're in need of a new truck for work or for recreation, half-ton pickup trucks like the Ram 1500 are great options for those in need of power, versatility, and a go anywhere attitude to get any job done with ease!
What trucks are considered 1/2 ton?
Common 1/2-ton trucks are the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra. These are also known as light-duty trucks, and the numerical designation, such as "150" or "1500" in their names, indicates their half-ton classification.
- Ford F-150: Ford's most popular light-duty, half-ton truck.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Chevrolet's entry in the half-ton market.
- GMC Sierra 1500: GMC's equivalent to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
- Ram 1500: The half-ton offering from Ram (formerly Dodge).
- Toyota Tundra: A half-ton truck from Toyota.
- Nissan Titan: Another half-ton pickup truck option.
