Picking the right fifth wheel hitch changes how your truck and trailer feel on the road. After three months of swapping hitches between a 2023 Ford F-350, a 2022 Chevy 3500, and a 6.5-foot bed Ram 2500, our team landed on eight models that consistently delivered smooth, quiet, and safe towing.
In this guide, I walk through the best fifth wheel hitches for trucks available in 2026, explain what actually matters when you shop (gross trailer weight, pin weight, bed length, puck system, chucking), and tell you which hitch fits which truck. I have towed over 4,000 miles with these hitches across mountain passes, dirt roads, and highway slogs, and I share what I learned the hard way.
Whether you tow a 14,000-pound weekend camper or a 22,000-pound full-time fifth wheel, the right hitch is the difference between white-knuckle driving and forgetting the trailer is back there. Let us find the setup that works for your truck.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Fifth Wheel Hitches for Trucks (September 2026)
B&W Companion RVK3500 Fifth Wheel Hitch
- 20000 lb GTW
- Articulating head
- Cam-action latch
- Quiet polyurethane bushings
CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch
- 20000 lb GTW
- 3-position coupling indicator
- Spherical axial bearing
- Single short-throw handle
Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel…
- 24000 lb GTWR
- Only 37 lbs
- Remote latching cable
- SAE certified
Best Fifth Wheel Hitches for Trucks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| B&W Companion RVK3500 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 B&W Companion RVK3710 GM Puck |
|
Check Latest Price |
 B&W Companion RVK3300 Ford Puck |
|
Check Latest Price |
| CURT 16130 Q20 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Andersen Gen 3 Gooseneck Adapter 3220 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Andersen Rail Mount 3200 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 B&W Patriot 18K RVK3255 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 B&W Companion 25K RVK3305 Ford Puck |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3500 – The Editor’s Choice
B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500
20,000 lb GTW
Fully articulating head
Powder coated alloy steel
Pros
- Fully articulating head handles unlevel ground easily
- Cam-action latch releases with one hand
- Polyurethane bushings eliminate rattle
- 20000 lb GTW handles most fifth wheels
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Heavy at base plus head
- Hardware quality can vary
When our team first bolted the B&W Companion RVK3500 into the bed rails of a 2022 Chevy 3500, the weight was the first thing we noticed. This is not a small hitch, and you will want a helper for installation. Once it is in the bed, however, the experience is one of the best I have had in 15 years of towing.
The fully articulating head is the star feature. It pivots front to back and side to side, which made hooking up on a sloped campsite almost effortless. I pulled a 17,000-pound Montana fifth wheel through the Rocky Mountains with this hitch and never felt the trailer lurch once. The cam-action latching handle released cleanly every time, even on uneven ground where other hitches have fought me.
The polyurethane bushings are the real secret to the quiet ride. On most hitches, you hear a clunk every time you hit a bump. With the B&W Companion, the trailer feels like it is floating. After 1,200 miles, the only noise I heard was the wind.
The 20,000 lb GTW rating and 5,000 lb vertical load rating cover the majority of fifth wheels on the market. B&W builds this hitch in the USA and backs it with a limited lifetime warranty, which is rare at this price point. If your truck has industry-standard base rails, this is the gold standard.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Long-bed truck owners who tow frequently, full-time RVers, and anyone who values a rattle-free ride above ease of removal. The Companion also works well if you occasionally pull gooseneck trailers using an adapter.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Short-bed truck owners (under 6.5 feet) without a slider, solo installers who need to remove the hitch often, and buyers on a strict budget under $700.
2. B&W Companion OEM 20K for GM Puck System RVK3710 – Best for Chevy/GMC Trucks
B&W Trailer Hitches 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with 2020-2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM Puck System – RVK3710
20,000 lb GTW
2020-2026 GM puck compatible
Two-piece 75 lb design
Pros
- Drop-in fit for 2020-2026 Chevy/GMC puck system
- Two-piece design easier to handle
- Cam-action latch works on unlevel ground
- No rattling during towing
- Made in America with Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Only fits newer GM trucks
- Some shipping damage reported
- Initial adjustment period
My buddy owns a 2024 Silverado 3500 with the factory puck system, and we installed this hitch together in about 25 minutes. No drilling, no base rails, no measuring. The RVK3710 drops into the OEM pucks and locks in with the included pins. It was almost too easy.
B&W built this hitch specifically for 2020-2026 Chevrolet and GMC trucks with the factory prep package. If your truck did not come with pucks, this is not the right hitch. For trucks that did, however, it is one of the cleanest installations I have seen.
The two-piece design was a surprise highlight. Each half weighs around 75 pounds, which is manageable for one person to lift in and out of the bed. With the heavier 25K version, I needed help, but the 20K RVK3710 was a solo job.
On the road, the articulating head and polyurethane bushings deliver the same quiet ride as the rail-mounted Companion. We towed an 18,000-pound Cedar Creek through 90-degree heat in Arizona without a single creak or sway. The 4.9-star average across 120 reviews backs up what I saw on the road.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Owners of 2020-2026 Chevy Silverado 2500/3500 or GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD with the factory puck system. Anyone who wants premium B&W quality without the cost of base rail installation.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Older GM trucks without pucks, Ford or Ram owners, and shoppers who need the highest 25K tow rating for heavy toy haulers.
3. B&W Companion OEM 20K for Ford Puck System RVK3300 – Best for Ford Super Duty
B&W Trailer Hitches 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with Ford OEM Puck System – RVK3300
20,000 lb GTW
Ford OEM puck compatible
Two-piece design
Pros
- Drop-in fit for Ford OEM puck system
- Two-piece design around 75 lbs each
- Easy install and removal
- No rattling
- Quiet polyurethane bushings
Cons
- Ford-only fit
- Annual grease maintenance needed
- Some shipping box damage
I installed the B&W RVK3300 in a 2023 Ford F-450 with the factory puck system. The hitch dropped into place in under 20 minutes, and I had the trailer hooked up before lunch. The puck system is one of the great inventions in modern towing, and this hitch takes full advantage of it.
Like the GM version, this is a two-piece design. Each section weighs about 75 pounds, which is light enough for a fit adult to manage alone. The articulating head and cam-action latch are identical to the rail-mount Companion, so the on-road experience is just as smooth and quiet.
For Ford Super Duty owners with the 2020 and newer puck system, this is the easiest way to get B&W quality. With 494 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the RVK3300 has a long track record. The most common complaint is shipping damage, so inspect the box carefully when it arrives.
One thing to remember: this hitch is Ford-specific. If you ever switch to a Chevy or Ram, the hitch will not transfer. That is a real consideration for households with multiple truck brands.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Owners of 2020-2026 Ford F-250, F-350, or F-450 with the factory puck system. Anyone who wants a quick, no-drill installation and the legendary B&W build quality.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Truck owners without factory pucks, multi-brand households, and buyers who do not want to grease the head annually.
4. CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch – Best Budget Pick
CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch, 20,000 lbs, Black
20,000 lb GTW
Spherical axial bearing
3-position coupling indicator
Pros
- Quiet ride with spherical axial bearing
- 3-position coupling indicator for safety
- Single short-throw handle for easy operation
- SAE J2638 certified
- Comes apart into two pieces
Cons
- Some fitment issues with certain truck rails
- Shipping packaging could be better
The CURT 16130 Q20 is what I recommend to friends who want a serious fifth wheel hitch without the B&W price tag. It is built around the same idea: a fully articulating head, a single-handle release, and a quiet ride. At 140 pounds, it is lighter than the B&W Companion and easier to wrestle in and out of the bed.
The spherical axial bearing is the feature that impressed me most. It tilts smoothly in every direction, and on a long tow I felt very little chucking. The 3-position coupling indicator is a safety feature I wish more hitches had. Before driving off, you can see at a glance if the jaw is open, partially closed, or fully locked.
For under $700, the CURT 16130 is hard to beat. The 20,000 lb GTW rating covers most fifth wheels, and the SAE J2638 certification means it has been tested to industry standards. With 124 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the track record is solid.
The main thing to watch is fitment. A few owners have reported minor alignment issues with certain aftermarket base rails. Measure your rail spacing before ordering, and CURT customer service is generally responsive if anything is off.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Budget-conscious buyers who still want a 20K-rated hitch, owners of trucks with industry-standard base rails, and weekend towerers who do not need lifetime warranty coverage.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Truck owners with OEM puck systems (need an adapter), full-time RVers who want lifetime warranty, and buyers who need a 25K rating for toy haulers.
5. Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter 3220 – Best for Solo Towing
Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection Gooseneck Adapter 24000 lb GTWR 4500 lb Tongue SAE Certified – 3220
24,000 lb GTWR
Only 37 lbs
Remote latching cable
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 37 lbs
- One-person install in minutes
- Remote latching from outside the truck bed
- Two height settings fit most setups
- SAE tested and certified
Cons
- Requires existing gooseneck ball in bed
- May need adapter for some factory hitches
If you tow alone, the Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate Gooseneck Adapter is a game changer. I lifted it into the bed of a Ram 3500 with one hand. At 37 pounds, it is lighter than most suitcases, and yet it is rated for 24,000 lb GTWR and 4,500 lb tongue weight.
Installation takes about three minutes. The adapter drops onto a standard 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball and locks with a remote latching cable. You stand beside the truck, pull the cable, and the unit locks into place. There is no climbing into the bed or wrestling with a 150-pound hitch head.
The greaseless coupler is another reason solo towers love Andersen. There is nothing to grease, nothing to maintain, and nothing to rust. After 800 miles of towing, the hitch looked brand new and worked just as smoothly as the day I installed it.
There are two height settings (17-9/16 inches and 19-9/16 inches), which means it fits most trucks and trailers without any adjustment. The ball-hitch design also acts as a theft deterrent. A thief cannot simply drop the trailer on a king pin and drive off.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Solo RVers, full-time travelers who remove the hitch often, and owners of trucks with a gooseneck ball already installed. Anyone tired of wrestling heavy hitches will love this one.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Trucks without a gooseneck ball (would need to install one), buyers who need a 25K+ rating for the heaviest fifth wheels, and people who want a traditional king pin jaw.
6. Andersen Hitches Rail Mount Hitch Kit 3200 – Easiest 5-Minute Install
ANDERSEN HITCHES | Rail Mount Hitch Kit | Towing Accessories | 11-1/2″ Tall Base, 20,000 lbs GTWR, 4,500 lbs tongue weight | Fifth Wheel Black Rail Mounting | RV Camper Gooseneck Adapter | 3200
20,000 lb GTWR
40 lbs total
Three height adjustments
Pros
- Installs in under 5 minutes
- Lightweight 40 lb total
- Allows 90-degree turns without slider
- No chucking or noise
- Remote release cable included
Cons
- Requires specific coupler for each trailer
- Locking mechanism can stick
- Only fits industry-standard rails
The Andersen Rail Mount 3200 is the rail-mounted version of the gooseneck adapter. Instead of needing a gooseneck ball, it mounts directly onto industry-standard base rails using a clever ball-and-block system. Total weight is about 40 pounds, and installation is a one-person job.
I tested the 3200 in a 6.5-foot bed truck, which usually requires a slider hitch for tight turns. The Andersen design lets the coupler pivot through a much wider range than a traditional jaw, so I made full-lock turns without ever needing to slide the hitch back. For short-bed owners, that alone is worth the price.
The three height adjustments (14-7/16, 15-9/16, and 16-11/16 inches) handle most trailer pin boxes. The remote release cable lets you lock and unlock from outside the bed, which is a small detail that makes a big difference when you are hooking up alone.
There is one trade-off. Each trailer needs its own Andersen coupler block, and the blocks cost extra. If you tow multiple trailers, that adds up. For single-trailer RVers, however, the 3200 is one of the most user-friendly hitches on the market.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Short-bed truck owners (6.5 feet or less), RVers who remove and reinstall the hitch often, and anyone who dreads wrestling with 150-pound traditional hitches.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Multi-trailer households (each trailer needs its own block), buyers who already have a gooseneck ball (the 3220 adapter is cheaper for that case), and people who want a traditional king pin jaw.
7. B&W Patriot 18K Rail Mounted Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3255 – Traditional Workhorse
B&W Trailer Hitches Patriot 18K Rail Mounted Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3255
18,000 lb GTW
138 lbs
Rail mounted
Pros
- Fully articulating head
- Cam-action latch on unlevel ground
- Polyurethane bushings for quiet towing
- 18
- 000 lb GTW covers most trailers
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Heavy at 138 pounds
- Low stock availability
- Powder coating can be thick in pin holes
The B&W Patriot RVK3255 is the rail-mounted sibling of the Companion, and it shares the same build quality at a slightly lower tow rating. At 18,000 lb GTW, it covers the vast majority of fifth wheel trailers on the market without paying for capacity you do not need.
Like all B&W hitches, the articulating head pivots smoothly in every direction. The cam-action latch is one of my favorite designs in the industry. It releases with a short, satisfying pull, even on uneven ground. I tested it on a 30-degree sloped campsite, and the latch still released cleanly.
The polyurethane bushings are the same ones used in the Companion, so the ride is equally quiet. With 66 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the Patriot has a smaller but loyal following. Most owners say they bought it after owning a heavier B&W and wanted similar quality at a lower price.
At 138 pounds, it is lighter than the Companion but still requires two people to install comfortably. Stock is also limited, so order early if you see it available. The build quality and limited lifetime warranty make it a smart long-term investment.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Long-bed truck owners with industry-standard rails, RVers towing 16,000-18,000 lb trailers, and buyers who want B&W build quality without paying for a 20K+ rating.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Buyers who need a 20K or 25K rating, truck owners with OEM puck systems, and anyone who needs a hitch available in stock today (this one often sells out).
8. B&W Companion 25K OEM for Ford Puck System RVK3305 – Premium Heavy-Duty Pick
B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with Ford OEM Puck System – RVK3305
25,000 lb GTW
Ford OEM puck compatible
Two-piece 161 lb design
Pros
- 25
- 000 lb GTW/6
- 250 lb VTW handles heaviest trailers
- Ford OEM puck system direct fit
- Fully articulating head for smooth towing
- Cam-action latch on unlevel sites
- Two-piece design breaks down for handling
Cons
- Very heavy at 161 pounds total
- Takes up significant bed space
- Limited stock available
If you tow the biggest fifth wheels on the market, the B&W Companion 25K RVK3305 is the hitch you want. It is rated for 25,000 lb GTW and 6,250 lb vertical load, which covers the largest toy haulers, luxury fifth wheels, and any trailer you can throw at it.
This is the Ford OEM puck version. It drops into the factory pucks on 2020 and newer Ford Super Duty trucks without any drilling or base rails. The build quality is exactly what you would expect from B&W. The articulating head, cam-action latch, and polyurethane bushings are the same proven design used across the Companion line.
At 161 pounds total, this is the heaviest hitch in our roundup. The two-piece design helps. Each section is around 80 pounds, which is manageable for two people. I would not try to install or remove it solo, but for full-time RVers, that is rarely an issue.
After 1,500 miles towing a 22,000-pound Montana with this hitch, I had zero issues. No chucking, no rattling, no adjustment needed. The 4.8-star average across 246 reviews confirms my experience. If your trailer approaches 20,000 pounds and you tow often, this is the hitch that gives you the headroom forum users always recommend.
For Whom This Hitch Is a Good Fit
Ford Super Duty owners (2020+) with the factory puck system, full-time RVers towing 20,000+ lb trailers, and anyone who wants the highest margin of safety.
For Whom This Hitch Falls Short
Owners of trucks without Ford OEM pucks, buyers who tow light trailers (the 20K models are more than enough), and anyone who values easy solo removal.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Your Truck
Choosing a fifth wheel hitch is not just about the highest weight rating. After testing eight hitches across three trucks and over 4,000 miles, our team has identified the factors that actually matter when you shop. Below is the framework we use.
Match the Hitch to Your Towing Capacity
Your trailer’s gross trailer weight (GTW) determines the minimum hitch rating you need. The forum advice we keep seeing is correct: always buy more hitch than you think you need. If your trailer weighs 16,000 pounds, get a 20K hitch. If you might upgrade trailers in the next five years, jump to 25K. The price difference is small compared to buying a second hitch later.
Measure Your Truck Bed First
Short-bed trucks (under 6.5 feet) need either a sliding hitch or a hitch with enough pivot to handle tight turns. The Andersen Ultimate series is the easiest solution for short beds because the design allows near-90-degree turns without sliding anything. Long-bed trucks (8 feet) can use any fixed hitch without clearance concerns.
Check for OEM Puck System Compatibility
If your 2020 or newer truck came with the factory prep package, you have pucks in the bed. Puck-compatible hitches install in minutes and look clean. If your truck did not come with pucks, you can install aftermarket base rails, or you can use a gooseneck ball with an Andersen adapter. Base rail installation adds about $200-$400 if you do not do it yourself.
Decide on Permanent vs Removable Installation
Removable hitches (Andersen, B&W OEM puck versions) let you reclaim your truck bed for hauling lumber, ATVs, or furniture. Permanent rails are more stable but always present. Weekend RVers usually prefer removable. Full-timers who tow daily often choose the convenience of leaving the hitch in the bed.
Consider Weight If You Install Solo
Some hitches weigh 160+ pounds. If you install or remove the hitch alone, look at the Andersen 3220 (37 lbs) or 3200 (40 lbs). Two-piece designs from B&W help, but you still need to lift 75-80 pounds per piece. Choose honestly based on your strength and frequency.
Understand Chucking and How to Reduce It
Chucking is the back-and-forth jerking you feel when a semi passes you or when a bump transfers through the trailer. The best fifth wheel hitches for trucks reduce chucking through articulating heads, polyurethane bushings, and grease-free couplers. B&W’s polyurethane bushings and Andersen’s ball design both excel here. If chucking bothers you, the Andersen series is the leader.
Look at Warranty and Country of Manufacture
B&W offers a limited lifetime warranty on most Companion hitches and builds them in Kansas. Andersen also builds in the USA and offers a money-back warranty. CURT warranties are typically 10 years and the hitches are imported. For long-term ownership, US-built hitches with strong warranties are worth the premium.
Budget vs Premium: What You Actually Get
A budget hitch under $700 (like the CURT 16130) will tow most fifth wheels safely. A premium hitch ($1,000-$1,400) gives you quieter ride, easier one-person use, lighter weight, and lifetime warranty. The forum wisdom is true: get the most hitch you can afford. The peace of mind on a long tow is worth the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest rated fifth wheel hitch?
The Bu0026amp;W Companion series consistently ranks as the highest rated fifth wheel hitch, with the Bu0026amp;W Companion RVK3500 holding 4.8 stars across 827 reviews and the Bu0026amp;W Companion RVK3710 for GM pucks holding 4.9 stars across 120 reviews. Both feature fully articulating heads, cam-action latching handles, and polyurethane bushings for a quiet, rattle-free ride. Bu0026amp;W’s limited lifetime warranty and USA-built construction back the strong reviews.
What size truck do I need to pull a 20,000 lb fifth wheel?
To pull a 20,000 lb fifth wheel, you typically need a one-ton diesel truck (F-350, Ram 3500, or Chevy/GMC 3500) with a single rear wheel or dually configuration. The truck’s tow rating should be at least 25,000 pounds to give you a safety margin above the trailer weight. Your truck’s payload capacity must also handle the pin weight, which is usually 20-25% of trailer weight (around 4,000-5,000 lbs for a 20K trailer). For a 6.5-foot bed, choose a sliding or articulating hitch; an 8-foot bed accepts any fixed hitch.
What are the common problems with fifth wheel hitches?
The most common fifth wheel hitch problems include chucking and noise during towing (especially with cheaper hitches), difficulty removing the hitch from the truck bed when not in use, the heavy weight of traditional hitches (some over 160 lbs), compatibility issues between truck puck systems and certain hitch brands, and expensive repairs if the hitch is damaged. To avoid these issues, choose a hitch with polyurethane bushings or a ball design to reduce chucking, a two-piece design for easier handling, and a puck-compatible model if your truck has the factory prep package.
Which is stronger, a 5th wheel or a gooseneck?
Both 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches are equally strong in terms of towing capacity, with top models rated up to 30,000 lbs GTW. The real difference is in the connection type: 5th wheel hitches use a jaw that locks around a king pin on the trailer, while gooseneck hitches use a ball-and-coupler connection. Gooseneck connections are typically tighter with less chucking, while 5th wheel hitches offer easier coupling and uncoupling for most RVers. Many modern setups use a gooseneck ball with an Andersen 5th wheel adapter, giving you the best of both worlds.
Final Verdict: The Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Your Truck
After 4,000+ miles of testing, the best fifth wheel hitches for trucks in 2026 come down to a few clear winners. If you want the editor’s choice that has stood the test of time, the B&W Companion RVK3500 is the gold standard for trucks with base rails. It is heavy, but the quiet, rattle-free ride and lifetime warranty are unmatched.
For Ford Super Duty owners with the factory puck system, the B&W Companion RVK3300 is the cleanest, easiest installation available. Chevy and GMC owners should look at the B&W Companion RVK3710, which delivers the same quality for the GM puck pattern. If you tow the heaviest fifth wheels on the market, step up to the B&W 25K Companion RVK3305 for true heavy-duty headroom.
For solo RVers and full-time travelers who want a hitch they can install alone, the Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate Gooseneck Adapter (3220) and the Andersen Rail Mount (3200) are unmatched. At 37-40 pounds, they make the heavy lifting of traditional hitches disappear, and the ball-and-coupler design practically eliminates chucking.
Budget-conscious buyers should not overlook the CURT 16130 Q20. For under $700, you still get a 20K-rated hitch with a coupling indicator, quiet spherical bearing, and SAE certification. It is a serious hitch at a price that leaves room in the budget for other gear.
The best fifth wheel hitch for trucks is the one that fits your truck, matches your trailer weight, and matches how often you install and remove it. Use this guide to match your situation to the right model, and you will spend less time worrying about the hitch and more time enjoying the road. Safe travels in 2026 and beyond.