Modern full-size trucks, like the 2018 Ford F-150 and GMC Sierra 1500, pull much more than their own weight. These towing and hauling pros are equally good at keeping you connected and comfortable. How do you choose which truck is best for you and your crew? Read our comparison guide to help.

Creature Comforts

With so many configurations on offer, the Sierra 1500 cabin ranges from workhorse-lite to absolutely lavish. If you've got clients to impress, the slick leather upholstery is certain to do the trick. No winter should pass without the Sierra's heated front seats. The good news is that no matter how much you want to spend, the Sierra 1500 delivers supportive comfort, with seats to accommodate a wide range of body types.

The 2018 Ford F-150 supplies similar options in terms of luxury. It even offers extra trim models - like the King Ranch, which is decked out in Texas-ranch-style luxury, including saddle-brown leather upholstery. If you have your heart set on the top-trim F-150 Limited, however, you will end up spending a little more than you would on the Sierra 1500 Denali.

Tech Features

This year, the F-150 outdoes itself in terms of work-ready technology. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system helps you back a trailer into your driveway without jackknifing in the wrong direction. The Ultimate Tow Trailer System combines seven cameras, so you can monitor the cargo hold, hitch a trailer, or maneuver into parallel parking spaces without a scratch.

The Sierra 1500 keeps things simpler. The rearview camera helps you back out of tight spaces without running over any valuable work supplies. Like the F-150, the Sierra 1500 helps you make a quick exit, with keyless ignition and entry.

Safety

The F-150 is worth its weight in safety ratings. In government crash tests, it earned a perfect five stars for overall protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2018 F-150 a Top Safety Pick. The F-150 can also be equipped with heavy-duty driver aids. For example, the forward collision warning system alerts you to a crash, even as it pre-charges the brakes to deliver maximum stopping power.

We also like the Sierra's advanced driver aids, which also include forward collision alert and lane keeping assist. This technology helps you spot danger without missing a beat. The GMC Sierra 1500 earned the IIHS's top score of "Good" in most tests, even if it wasn't named a Top Safety Pick.

Towing Capability

If you need to tow heavy machinery or trailers, hitch a ride in the F-150. Properly equipped, this pickup truck tows 13,200 pounds. That's thanks in part to Ford's turbocharged, 3.5-liter V6 engine, which now makes 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque for your towing pleasure.

With the Sierra, you can still move substantial weight. The GMC Sierra 1500 can tow up to 12,500 pounds - coming up just short of the F-150's max loads. However, you need to purchase the Max Trailering Package to reach this figure.

Learn More about the Ford F-150

The 2018 Ford F-150 is our overall pick. It's everything you want in a rugged pickup truck and, with leather upholstery and the multi-contour seats, it's also everything you could want from a luxury vehicle as well. It's hard to beat the combination of capability and comfort that the Ford F-150 offers.