What’s the Difference Between 1500, 2500, and 3500 in Trucks?

What is the difference between 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 trucks? Around North Pole, you’ll see 1500, 2500, and 3500 designations used across popular manufacturers, including Chevy, GMC, RAM, and Ford. However, it’s common not to understand what the difference truly is between 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 trucks. Here’s a rundown on everything you need to know about these pickup weight and capability classifications to help you choose which kind of new truck works for your driving needs, on or off the job site.

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What’s the Difference Between 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 Trucks?

These truck differences used to come down to the amount each one could haul in tons. The estimation was rough, but things generally broke down like this:

• 1500: Half-Ton
• 2500: Three-Quarter-Ton
• 3500: One Ton

You’ll still sometimes see 1500 trucks referred to as half-tons, but these days, those labels don’t really describe these trucks’ true capabilities as such all the time.

Instead, today:

• 1500 designates a light-duty truck
• 2500 and 3500 designate heavy-duty trucks

1500 badging is commonly used for trucks that are suitable for light work and general driving. 2500 and 3500 designations are preferred by Fairbanks service workers and other truck drivers who need to tow and carry extremely heavy loads.

 1500 vs. 2500HD vs. 3500HD: Chevrolet Silverado Trucks

It’s probably easier to explain truck designations with an example from Chevrolet, GMC:

•  Chevy Silverado 1500: First up is the Chevy Silverado 1500 which is a fan favorite due to its powerful
  5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine with DFM along with the versatility of up to 89.1 cubic feet of cargo space to transport everything you need in one trip.
• Chevy Silverado 2500HD: Next is the Silverado 2500HD which delivers unleashes 910 lb-ft. of torque and can tow up to 18,100 lbs thanks to the power of a 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 engine paired perfectly with a 6-speed, heavy-duty, electronically controlled automatic transmission.
• Chevy Silverado 3500HD: The Chevy Silverado 3500HD shares the same engine as the Silverado 2500HD and gets up to 401 horsepower and delivers extra power with a payload capacity of 4,365 lbs.

1500 vs. 2500HD vs. 3500HD: GMC Sierra Trucks

Much like Chevy, GMC offers Fairbanks customers these three model types that offer their own enticing advantage and features highlighted below:

• GMC Sierra 1500: The latest GMC Sierra 1500 features a powerful 3.5L Duramax turbo engine that generates up to 460 lb-ft of torque along with advanced features such as a six-function multi-pro tailgate as well as a carbon fiber composite bed.
• GMC Sierra 2500HD: If you opt for the GMC Sierra 2500 HD you’ll have access to a powerful Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 engine and cutting-edge features such as a ProGrade Trailering System and air filtration monitoring to ensure your truck can tackle any job with ease.
• GMC Sierra 3500HD: Another stellar option is the GMC Sierra 3500HD which features the same engineering as the Sierra 2500HD but is supported by upgrades such as StabiliTrak which is an electronic stability control system and an integrated trailer brake controller to secure items when towing.

Learn More at Chevrolet Buick GMC of Fairbanks

Still, comparing vehicles? We’ve got you covered. Contact us today to explore our inventory! We have plenty of trucks in stock – including those in fun colors. Learn more about what a 2500 truck can do for you in our GMC Sierra 2500 towing capacity guide today!

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