When shopping for a full-size pickup, two popular contenders under the Ram 1500 banner stand out—the no-frills Tradesman and the stylish yet capable Big Horn. While they share the same DNA, these trims cater to very different needs. Whether you’re a worksite warrior or someone who wants a mix of ruggedness and comfort, choosing between these two could come down to the details.
This blog supports our in-depth comparison with real-world considerations to help you make the right call.
Overview of the Ram 1500 Lineup
The Ram 1500 is known for its refined ride, strong towing capacity, and interior comfort. Across its various trims, you’ll find configurations suited for jobsite utility, long hauls, or daily family duty. The Tradesman and Big Horn sit on the lower half of the pricing ladder, but neither skimps on the essentials that make the Ram 1500 a top-rated truck year after year.
Ram Tradesman: Built for Work
The Ram 1500 Tradesman is built with a simple goal—get the job done. It’s a straightforward truck designed for function, not flash. With a focus on durability and cost-efficiency, the Tradesman has long been a favorite for fleet buyers and commercial use.
Key Highlights:
- Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque (standard), 5.7L HEMI V8 optional
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Durable vinyl seating standard, easy-to-clean surfaces
- Infotainment: Uconnect 3 with a 5-inch screen
- Wheels: 17-inch steel
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,730 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Payload: Around 2,300 lbs
Ideal For:
- Contractors
- Landscapers
- Municipal or fleet use
- Value-focused buyers
The Tradesman is all about utility. If you want a tough, reliable truck that hauls gear, tows trailers, and isn’t worried about a little dirt, this is your go-to trim.
Ram Big Horn: Comfort Meets Capability
Step up to the Big Horn, and you start to see a more refined take on truck life. Still built for work, the Big Horn adds style and comfort that makes it equally at home on city streets or off-road trails. It’s the most popular trim in the Ram lineup for a reason.
Key Highlights:
- Engine Options: 3.6L V6 with eTorque or available 5.7L HEMI V8
- Exterior: Chrome accents, 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps
- Interior: Cloth seating with optional power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Infotainment: Uconnect 4 with 8.4-inch touchscreen available
- Comfort Features: Dual-zone climate control (optional), leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Towing Capacity: Similar to Tradesman but varies by configuration
Ideal For:
- Drivers who mix work and personal use
- Towing and trailering with added comfort
- Buyers looking for customization and package upgrades
The Big Horn lets you personalize your truck with multiple packages, including the Level 1 and Level 2 Equipment Groups that add creature comforts like heated seats, remote start, and upgraded audio.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Tradesman | Big Horn |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Lower | Moderate |
| Engine (Standard) | 3.6L V6 | 3.6L V6 |
| Optional Engine | 5.7L HEMI | 5.7L HEMI |
| Infotainment | 5″ Uconnect 3 | 8.4″ Uconnect 4 (optional) |
| Wheels | 17″ Steel | 18″ Aluminum |
| Seats | Vinyl or cloth | Cloth, optional upgrades |
| Style Features | Basic | Chrome grille, fog lamps |
| Interior Tech | Minimal | Available enhancements |
Real-Life Scenarios
Scenario 1: The Workhorse Buyer Let’s say you’re a contractor or tradesperson who needs a reliable truck for daily hauling and jobsite demands. You’ll appreciate the Tradesman’s lower upfront cost and durable interior. You’re not worried about touchscreen size—you want rubber floor mats and a bench seat that handles muddy boots.
Scenario 2: The Everyday Adventurer You drive to job sites during the week and hit the mountains or lake on weekends. You want towing muscle for your boat, but you also want Apple CarPlay and a quieter cabin. The Big Horn gives you the best of both worlds—tough where it counts, refined when it matters.
Which Trim Offers Better Value?
The Tradesman is unbeatable for basic utility and price-conscious shoppers. If you’re financing and every dollar matters, it offers unbeatable Ram quality at a minimal investment.
The Big Horn, meanwhile, delivers excellent long-term value thanks to its comfort features and higher resale value. Buyers who want a daily driver that doubles as a weekend warrior will find it hard to beat.
Financing Options at Simi Valley CDJR
At Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we make it easy to drive off in either trim. Whether you’re paying cash or financing, our team will help you find the right monthly payment and available incentives.
- Competitive interest rates
- Lease or finance options
- Trade-in evaluations
- Commercial fleet assistance
👉 Check our Ram 1500 inventory now
Final Thoughts: Tradesman or Big Horn?
If you want a simple, budget-friendly truck that works as hard as you do, the Tradesman is your trim. If you want a truck that makes room for comfort, tech, and personalization, the Big Horn is well worth the upgrade.
Whichever you choose, you’re getting a Ram—built to lead in performance, towing, and reliability.
📍 Visit us at Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram or explore our current Ram specials to get started today.
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