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

April 30th, 2018 by
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2018 Silverado 2500

What’s the difference between 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 trucks? Why are trucks labeled 1500, 2500, and 3500? Around North Pole, you’ll see 1500, 2500, and 3500 designations used across popular manufacturers, including Chevy, GMC, and RAM. 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 a 1500, 2500, and 3500 Truck?

Why are trucks labeled 1500, 2500, and 3500? What’s the difference between a 1500, 2500, and 3500 truck? 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 suitable for light work and general driving. Fort Wainwright service workers and other truck drivers who need to tow and carry extremely heavy loads prefer 2500 and 3500 designations.

 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 unleashes 975 lb-ft of torque and can tow up to 22,500 pounds thanks to the power of a 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 engine paired with an Allison® 10-speed transmission.
  • Chevy Silverado 3500HD: This truck boasts a towing capacity of 36,000 pounds and up to 975 lb-ft of torque.

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

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

  • GMC Sierra 1500: The latest GMC Sierra 1500 tows up to 13,300 pounds when equipped with the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine.
  • 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 a towing capacity of 22,070 pounds.
  • GMC Sierra 3500HD: Another stellar option is the GMC Sierra 3500, which can tow up to 36,000 pounds when equipped with the Max Trailering Package, Gooseneck/Fifth-Wheel Prep Package, and gooseneck hitch.

Compare 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 Trucks in Fairbanks

Are you still comparing vehicles or confused why trucks are labeled 1500, 2500, and 3500? We’ve got you covered. Contact us today to explore our inventory! We have plenty of trucks in stock to match your lifestyle.

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