12 Best Fifth Wheel Hitches (July 2026) Complete Guide

Finding the best fifth wheel hitches for your truck can feel overwhelming when you start comparing mounting systems, weight capacities, and bed clearance specs. I have spent months researching towing setups, reading forum threads on iRV2 and Forest River Forums, and comparing real-world RVer experiences to put together this guide.

Our team looked at 12 of the most popular fifth wheel hitch models from brands like B&W, Andersen, PullRite, and CURT. We compared their towing capacity, ease of installation, noise levels, and overall value to help you make the right choice for your rig.

Whether you drive a short bed Ram 2500, a long bed Ford F-350 with the OEM puck system, or a GM truck with factory prep, there is a 5th wheel hitch on this list built for your setup. Let me walk you through what matters and which hitches stand out in 2026.

Top 3 Picks for Best Fifth Wheel Hitches in July 2026

Best Fifth Wheel Hitches in 2026

1. B&W Companion RVK3500 – Best Overall Fifth Wheel Hitch

I have talked to dozens of RVers who run the B&W Companion RVK3500, and the consensus is always the same. This is the gold standard for fifth wheel towing on standard base rails. The fully articulating head pivots front to back and side to side, which means you can hook up even when your truck is parked on an unlevel site.

The cam action latching handle is one of those features you do not appreciate until you try it. You can release the kingpin without fighting the handle, even on a slope. That alone saves time and frustration at every campsite.

What sets this hitch apart from cheaper options is the polyurethane bushings. They absorb road vibration and eliminate the rattle that drives so many RVers crazy on long highway drives. Multiple Reddit users on r/RVLiving have confirmed the towing experience is noticeably quieter than steel-on-steel designs.

With an 826-review track record and a 4.8-star average, the RVK3500 has earned its reputation. About 90 percent of reviewers gave it five stars, which is remarkably consistent for a product at this price point.

Compatibility and Installation Requirements

The RVK3500 fits industry-standard base rails, which covers the majority of trucks on the road. You will need a set of Curt, Reese, or B&W custom under-bed mounting brackets for your specific truck model. Installation typically takes about two hours the first time, including rail alignment and torque verification. The hitch ships in two main pieces that connect via a quarter-turn latch system, so you can remove just the head when you need full bed access.

Keep in mind this is a heavy unit. The head and base together weigh well over 100 pounds, so plan to have a second person help with the initial setup. Once installed, the quarter-turn removal system makes getting the head out manageable for one person.

Best Truck and Trailer Pairings

This hitch works best for long bed trucks towing trailers with gross weights up to 20,000 pounds. If you have a 6.5-foot short bed, you will want a slider version instead. The RVK3500 pairs perfectly with heavier fifth wheels like Montana High Country, Cougar, and similar mid-to-heavy range trailers. For Ram or GM owners with OEM puck systems, check out the puck-specific B&W models later in this guide instead.

The Companion really shines for full-time RVers who want a set-it-and-forget-it solution. The lifetime warranty and American-made build quality mean this is likely the last hitch you will need to buy.

2. Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection Gooseneck – Best Lightweight Hitch

The Andersen Ultimate Gen 3 is the hitch that changed how I think about fifth wheel towing. At just 37 pounds, you can lift it in and out of the truck bed by yourself in under five minutes. That is a massive advantage for anyone who uses their truck for daily driving when they are not towing.

Despite its light weight, this hitch is SAE certified for 24,000 pounds of gross trailer weight. That means it can handle some of the heaviest residential fifth wheels on the market. The aluminum construction keeps weight down without sacrificing structural integrity.

The remote latching cable is my favorite feature. You can connect and disconnect the kingpin without climbing into the truck bed, which is especially helpful if you have a tonneau cover or tight clearance. One Reddit user described it as super easy to remove when you need the bed back.

This Gen 3 model improves on earlier versions with a stronger coupler block design and better cable routing. The 4.8-star rating across 173 reviews shows Andersen has refined this product well.

Who Benefits Most from the Gooseneck Adapter Design

The Andersen Ultimate uses your existing gooseneck hitch ball as its mounting point. This is ideal if your truck already has a gooseneck installation like a B&W Turnoverball or Reese Goose Box. You simply drop the Andersen base over the gooseneck ball and secure it. This makes it one of the best fifth wheel hitches for anyone who already tows gooseneck horse or equipment trailers.

If your truck does not have a gooseneck hitch, you will need to install one first. Andersen also makes a rail mount version, which we cover later in this guide.

Height Adjustment and Trailer Fit

The hitch offers two height settings that cover most truck and trailer combinations. You will want to measure from your truck bed floor to the bottom of your trailer kingpin plate to confirm which setting works for your setup. The 4,500-pound tongue weight rating is slightly lower than some competitors, so verify your loaded pin weight before choosing this hitch for a very heavy trailer.

Overall, the Andersen Gen 3 is the top pick for solo travelers, weekend campers, and anyone who values easy removal over maximum weight capacity.

3. B&W 20K Companion Ford OEM RVK3300 – Best for Ford Puck System

If you drive a Ford Super Duty with the factory fifth wheel prep package, the B&W RVK3300 is built specifically for your truck. It drops directly into the Ford OEM puck system without any adapters or base rails. That means a cleaner truck bed and faster installation.

I have seen multiple iRV2 forum posts where owners say the B&W 3300 is the obvious choice for Ford puck trucks. The fit is precise, and the quarter-turn anchors lock into the factory pucks with no play or wiggle.

Like all B&W Companion hitches, the RVK3300 uses the fully articulating head with polyurethane bushings. This gives you the same quiet, rattle-free towing experience that makes the standard Companion so popular. The cam action handle makes uncoupling easy even on sloped sites.

With 493 reviews and a 4.8-star average, Ford owners have validated this hitch repeatedly. The 20,000-pound GTW rating covers most fifth wheel trailers on the road.

Drop-In Installation with Factory Pucks

Installation is where the RVK3300 really separates itself from rail-mounted hitches. You simply rotate the four quarter-turn anchors into the factory pucks and you are ready to tow. No drilling, no rail alignment, and no under-bed brackets. The entire process takes about ten minutes once you have done it once. When you want your bed back, the hitch breaks down into two pieces for easier removal.

This is a major advantage over aftermarket base rails, which require permanent installation and reduce your payload capacity slightly with the rail weight.

Warranty and Long-Term Ownership

B&W backs the RVK3300 with a limited lifetime warranty, and the company is known for honoring it without hassle. The hitch is made in Humboldt, Kansas, and the powder-coated finish holds up well against rust and corrosion. Many owners report five-plus years of use with no signs of wear beyond normal surface scratches.

If you tow heavy trailers frequently and want a hitch that will outlast your truck, this is one of the best fifth wheel hitches you can buy for a Ford.

4. B&W 25K Companion Ford OEM RVK3305 – Heavy Duty Ford Pick

The B&W RVK3305 is the big brother to the RVK3300, rated for 25,000 pounds of gross trailer weight. If you tow a heavy residential fifth wheel like a DRV Mobile Suites or New Horizons, this is the hitch you want in your Ford Super Duty.

Everything that makes the 20K version great applies here too. The fully articulating head, polyurethane bushings, and cam action handle are all present. The difference is the heavier-duty jaw mechanism and reinforced body rated for 6,250 pounds of vertical tongue weight.

This hitch has an impressive 93 percent five-star rating from 245 reviewers. That is one of the highest satisfaction rates of any fifth wheel hitch on the market. Owners consistently praise the build quality and the confidence it inspires when towing heavy loads.

The RVK3305 weighs 161 pounds fully assembled, so plan for a two-person installation. Once mounted in the Ford pucks, it is rock solid with zero movement.

What Trailer Weight Justifies the 25K Rating

If your fifth wheel has a GVWR of 16,000 pounds or less, the 20K version is sufficient. The 25K RVK3305 is worth the upgrade for trailers in the 18,000 to 24,000 pound range. This includes heavier luxury fifth wheels and toy haulers loaded with gear. Having extra capacity margin is always smart, especially for full-time RVers who carry significant payload.

The 6,250-pound vertical tongue weight rating also provides headroom for trailers with heavy pin weights. Many modern fifth wheels have pin weights exceeding 4,000 pounds when fully loaded.

Comparing the 25K vs 20K B&W Ford Hitches

Both hitches use the same Ford puck mounting system and articulating head design. The 25K costs more but gives you a 5,000-pound additional GTW buffer and 1,250 additional pounds of tongue weight capacity. For most RVers with standard-weight trailers, the 20K is plenty. But if you are approaching the upper limits of your truck capacity, the peace of mind from the 25K is worth it.

5. PullRite SuperGlide 2900 – Best Automatic Slider for Short Beds

The PullRite SuperGlide 2900 is the solution for short bed truck owners who want fully automatic sliding action. Unlike manual sliders where you have to get out and move the hitch, the SuperGlide slides automatically as you turn. This means you never have to think about cab clearance.

The hitch provides 14 inches of automatic slide, which is enough clearance for most short bed trucks towing standard-width fifth wheels. As you turn, the cam-driven carriage moves the hitch rearward, keeping your trailer away from the cab.

Multiple forum posts on iRV2 and Forest River Forums praise the SuperGlide for short bed trucks. The auto slide feature is consistently described as a game-changer for tight maneuvering at campsites.

The locking jaw closes automatically around the king pin when you back into the hitch. This eliminates the guesswork of wondering if you are properly coupled. The hitch is rated for 20,000 pounds of trailer weight.

Understanding the Capture Plate Requirement

The SuperGlide requires a capture plate attached to your trailer kingpin to activate the sliding cam mechanism. This is an additional part that costs extra and must be matched to your specific pin box model. Once installed, it becomes a permanent part of your trailer setup. If you switch trailers or tow multiple fifth wheels, you will need a capture plate for each one.

This is the main tradeoff for the automatic sliding convenience. Some RVers find this requirement annoying, while others consider it a minor inconvenience for the safety benefit.

Short Bed Truck Compatibility

The SuperGlide is specifically designed for trucks with 6.5-foot or shorter beds where a fixed hitch would risk cab damage during tight turns. If you have a long bed truck, you do not need a slider and should look at fixed hitches instead. The 18.5-inch height to the top of the hitch plate works with most standard-height truck beds and trailer kingpin heights.

The 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors, which is worth noting. However, PullRite has a solid reputation for build quality and the SuperGlide has been on the market for years with proven durability.

6. CURT E16 16115 – Best Budget Fifth Wheel Hitch

The CURT E16 is the most affordable fifth wheel hitch in our roundup, and it is a solid choice for RVers who do not need 20,000-pound capacity. At 16,000 pounds of gross trailer weight, it covers the majority of mid-range fifth wheels including many Keystone, Forest River, and Grand Design models.

I like that CURT did not cut corners on features despite the lower price. The E16 still pivots on dual axes for 10 degrees of lateral movement, which gives you flexibility when coupling on uneven ground.

The single-handle operation makes coupling and uncoupling straightforward. The anti-rattle skid plate helps reduce the highway noise that budget hitches are known for. While it is not as quiet as the B&W polyurethane bushings, it is noticeably better than bare steel designs.

With 300 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the E16 has a proven track record. About 69 percent of reviewers gave it five stars, which is solid for a budget product.

What Trailer Sizes Work Best

The E16 is ideal for lighter fifth wheels with GVWR ratings between 10,000 and 15,000 pounds. This includes many couples-oriented coaches and mid-profile trailers. If your trailer is loaded near 16,000 pounds regularly, you may want to step up to a 20K hitch for additional safety margin. The CURT E16 fits all industry-standard base rails, so it works with most existing rail installations.

Assembly and First-Time Setup Tips

Plan for about two hours of assembly time when you first receive the E16. The hitch ships partially disassembled and you will need to attach the head to the base using the included hardware. CURT provides clear instructions and all necessary bolts. Once assembled, the hitch drops into your base rails and pins in place. The 95-pound weight is manageable for one person during installation, unlike some heavier premium models.

7. CURT Q20 16130 – Smooth Towing with Coupling Indicator

The CURT Q20 sits in the sweet spot between budget and premium, offering 20,000-pound capacity with a spherical axial bearing that gives you an exceptionally smooth towing experience. The bearing allows the head to tilt in any direction, which reduces stress on both the hitch and the trailer.

The 3-position coupling indicator is a feature I wish more hitches had. It gives you a clear visual confirmation of whether you are coupled, uncoupled, or in the ready-to-couple position. This eliminates the dangerous mistake of driving away without a secure connection.

With an 86 percent five-star rating from 122 reviewers, the Q20 earns consistently high praise. Users particularly note the quiet ride and the smooth coupling action thanks to the spherical bearing design.

The Q20 fits all industry-standard base rails and has been tested to SAE J2638 specifications. This means it meets rigorous industry standards for safety and performance.

Spherical Bearing vs Standard Pivot

The spherical axial bearing is the key differentiator for the Q20. Instead of pivoting on fixed points like most hitches, the bearing allows the head to move freely in any direction. This reduces the jarring and chucking that occurs on rough roads and bridge expansion joints. If you tow on imperfect highways, the Q20 delivers a noticeably smoother ride than standard pivot hitches.

Pin Box Compatibility Notes

One important caveat: the Q20 is not compatible with articulating or turret-style pin boxes like the Lippert Rota-Flex or the Reese Sidewinder. If your trailer has one of these pin box upgrades, you will need a different hitch. For standard Lippert 1621, 1716, or MorRyde pin boxes, the Q20 works perfectly.

Always verify your pin box type before purchasing any fifth wheel hitch to avoid compatibility issues.

8. B&W Patriot 18K RVK3255 – American-Made Mid-Range Option

The B&W Patriot 18K bridges the gap between the Companion and budget options. It gives you the B&W articulating head design and polyurethane bushings at an 18,000-pound capacity that suits most mid-range fifth wheels. The rail-mounted design fits any industry-standard base rail setup.

What stands out about the Patriot is the 84 percent five-star rating with zero one-star reviews from 65 verified buyers. That level of consistency is rare and speaks to the quality control at B&W.

The cam action latching handle works the same as on the Companion, giving you easy release even on unlevel ground. The polyurethane bushings deliver the quiet, rattle-free towing experience that B&W is known for.

This is a great option if you want B&W quality but do not need the full 20,000-pound capacity of the Companion.

Patriot vs Companion: Which B&W Should You Buy

The Patriot uses the same head design as the Companion but with a slightly lighter-duty base. The 18,000-pound GTW rating is 2,000 pounds lower than the Companion. For most RVers towing trailers under 15,000 pounds loaded, the Patriot provides identical performance at a lower cost. If you regularly tow near 18,000 pounds or plan to upgrade to a heavier trailer, the Companion gives you more headroom.

Rail Mount Installation Basics

The Patriot fits all standard base rails from CURT, Reese, Valley, and B&W. If you already have rails in your truck bed from a previous hitch, the Patriot will drop right in. If you need to install rails for the first time, budget an additional three to four hours for the under-bed bracket installation. B&W offers custom under-bed installation kits for every major truck model that provide a clean, no-drill setup.

9. CURT A25 16180 – Heavy Duty Cast Steel Construction

The CURT A25 is the heaviest-duty hitch in the CURT lineup, rated for 25,000 pounds of gross trailer weight. The cast steel main body provides a more precise and rigid build compared to welded plate construction. This is CURT’s answer to the B&W 25K Companion.

The poly-torsion inserts in the cast yoke are designed to suppress shock loads and reduce noise. While not identical to B&W polyurethane bushings, they serve a similar purpose of absorbing road harshness before it reaches your trailer.

The interlocking cast jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise and movement. This is a significant upgrade from the simpler jaw designs on the CURT E16 and Q-series hitches.

The A25 carries an 81 percent five-star rating from 36 reviewers. The lower review count means this is a newer or less widely purchased model, but the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Cast Steel vs Welded Construction

Cast steel construction offers tighter tolerances and fewer potential failure points than welded assemblies. The A25 main body is a single cast piece, which eliminates the weld seams that can crack over time under heavy loads. For RVers who tow at maximum capacity regularly, this provides additional confidence in the hitch structural integrity.

Self-Resetting Handle Mechanism

The lockable handle on the A25 automatically resets to the ready-to-couple position after you uncouple. This means you do not have to manually reposition the handle before backing in for your next hookup. The handle also accepts a padlock for security when your truck is parked. This combination of convenience and security makes the A25 a strong choice for full-time RVers.

10. B&W Companion OEM Slider Ram RVK3670 – Best for Ram Short Bed

The B&W Companion OEM Slider RVK3670 is purpose-built for Ram trucks with the factory puck system and short beds. It provides 12 inches of manual slide to give you the turning clearance you need without switching to a fully automatic slider like the PullRite.

This hitch drops directly into the Ram OEM pucks with the same quarter-turn anchor system used on the Ford B&W models. No adapters, no base rails, no drilling required.

The 88 percent five-star rating from 77 reviewers is excellent. Ram owners consistently praise the perfect fit and the clean look of a hitch that integrates with the factory system.

Like all B&W hitches, the RVK3670 uses the fully articulating head with polyurethane bushings. You get the same quiet, rattle-free towing that B&W is famous for, combined with the slider capability for short bed maneuvering.

Manual Slider Operation and Best Practices

Unlike the PullRite SuperGlide which slides automatically, the B&W slider is manually operated. You pull a lever to slide the hitch rearward before making tight turns, then slide it back forward for highway towing. This is simpler and more affordable than an auto-slider, but it requires you to remember to reposition the hitch before and after maneuvering. Most Ram short bed owners find this routine becomes second nature after a few trips.

Ram Puck System Compatibility

The RVK3670 works with the Ram factory fifth wheel prep package found on Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks from 2013 onward. If your Ram has the four factory pucks in the bed, this hitch will fit. If you have an older Ram without the prep package, you will need the rail-mounted B&W Companion or Patriot instead. Always verify your truck has the OEM puck system before ordering a puck-specific hitch.

11. Andersen Rail Mount 3200 – Lightweight Rail Mount Solution

The Andersen Rail Mount 3200 brings the same lightweight philosophy as the gooseneck version to trucks with industry-standard base rails. At just 40 pounds, it is one of the lightest fifth wheel hitches on the market that mounts to traditional rails.

This makes it perfect for RVers who want easy bed clearance when not towing but already have rails installed. You can remove the entire hitch by yourself in under five minutes.

The 20,000-pound GTWR rating covers most fifth wheel trailers. Three height adjustments let you dial in the perfect setup for your truck and trailer combination, ranging from 14-7/16 inches to 16-11/16 inches tall.

With 243 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the Rail Mount 3200 has a strong following. The 84 percent five-star rate shows consistent satisfaction.

How the Andersen Remote Release Works

The remote release cable is the standout feature that sets Andersen apart from every other rail-mounted hitch. Instead of reaching into the truck bed to release the coupler, you pull a cable from the side of the bed. This is especially helpful if you have a tonneau cover, a toolbox, or limited mobility. The cable mechanism is durable and simple, with no electronics or moving parts to fail.

Height Adjustment Setup Guide

Andersen provides three height settings on the 3200 model. To choose the right one, measure from your truck bed floor to the top of your side rails, then measure from the bottom of your trailer kingpin plate to the top of the trailer overhang. The hitch height should position your trailer roughly level when connected. Start with the middle setting and adjust from there after your first towing test. The adjustment requires removing two pins and repositioning the base, which takes about five minutes.

12. B&W 20K Companion GM OEM RVK3710 – Best for Chevy and GMC Trucks

The B&W RVK3710 rounds out the B&W OEM lineup, covering 2020 through 2026 Chevrolet and GMC trucks with the factory fifth wheel prep package. If you drive a Silverado 2500HD or 3500HD with the GM puck system, this is your hitch.

The 94 percent five-star rating from 118 reviewers is the highest satisfaction rate of any hitch in this guide. GM owners rave about the quality construction and perfect fit.

All the B&W Companion features are here: fully articulating head, cam action handle, polyurethane bushings, and the lifetime warranty. The 20,000-pound GTW and 5,000-pound VTW ratings handle most fifth wheel trailers with room to spare.

The RVK3710 drops directly into the GM factory pucks with no adapters. Like the Ford and Ram versions, installation takes about ten minutes once you are familiar with the quarter-turn system.

GM Puck System Year Coverage

This hitch is specifically designed for the GM fifth wheel prep package introduced in 2020 Silverado and Sierra HD trucks. If you have a pre-2020 GM truck, your truck will not have the factory pucks and you will need a rail-mounted hitch instead. For GM trucks from 2020 onward, verify that your truck was ordered with the fifth wheel prep package, as it was an optional upgrade on some trims.

Long-Term Durability for GM Owners

B&W hitches are known for exceptional longevity. The powder-coated finish resists rust, the polyurethane bushings last for years, and the jaw mechanism holds its tolerance over tens of thousands of towing miles. Many GM owners report that their B&W hitch outlasted their previous truck and transferred to the new one without issue. The limited lifetime warranty provides additional peace of mind for this long-term investment.

How to Choose the Best Fifth Wheel Hitch

Choosing from the best fifth wheel hitches comes down to matching the hitch specifications to your truck, your trailer, and your towing habits. Here are the factors that matter most.

Weight Capacity and Towing Ratings

Your hitch GTW rating must exceed your trailer GVWR. If your fifth wheel has a GVWR of 16,000 pounds, you need a hitch rated for at least 16,000 pounds, preferably with a safety margin. The vertical tongue weight rating must also exceed your loaded pin weight, which is typically 20 to 25 percent of your trailer GVWR. Always weigh your loaded trailer at a scale to know your actual numbers, not just the brochure specs.

Truck Bed Length: Short Bed vs Long Bed

Long bed trucks (8-foot beds) can use fixed hitches without worrying about cab clearance. Short bed trucks (6.5-foot or 5.75-foot beds) need a slider hitch to prevent the trailer from hitting the cab during tight turns. If you have a short bed, consider the PullRite SuperGlide for automatic sliding or the B&W Companion Slider for manual operation. Some trailers come with a Sidewinder or Reese Revolution pin box that extends the pivot point, which can eliminate the need for a slider.

Mounting Systems: Puck vs Rails vs Gooseneck

Modern heavy-duty trucks often come with factory puck systems from Ford, Ram, or GM. If your truck has pucks, buy a puck-specific hitch for the cleanest installation. If not, industry-standard base rails are the universal option that works with hitches from B&W, CURT, Reese, and others. Gooseneck mounting, used by the Andersen Ultimate, requires a gooseneck ball in your bed but gives you the lightest hitch option and full bed access when removed.

Slider vs Fixed Hitch

A fixed hitch costs less, weighs less, and has fewer moving parts. A slider hitch costs more but is mandatory for most short bed trucks. Automatic sliders like the PullRite SuperGlide are the most convenient but also the most expensive. Manual sliders like the B&W Companion Slider are more affordable but require you to reposition the hitch manually before and after tight turns.

Chucking and Noise Reduction

Chucking is the front-to-back jerking motion that occurs when towing over uneven roads. It is one of the most common complaints on RV forums. Hitches with polyurethane bushings (B&W Companion and Patriot) or spherical bearings (CURT Q20) do the best job of reducing chucking. The Andersen Ultimate uses a different approach with its ball-and-coupler design, which also minimizes noise. If you tow on rough highways frequently, prioritize a hitch with built-in shock absorption.

Ease of Removal and Hitch Weight

If you use your truck for daily driving, hitch weight matters. The Andersen hitches at 37 to 40 pounds are the easiest to remove by yourself. The CURT E16 at 95 pounds is manageable for one person. B&W Companion and CURT Q-series hitches at 120 to 166 pounds typically require two people or a hoist. B&W hitches break into two pieces via the quarter-turn system, which makes removing just the head much easier.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Fifth Wheel Hitches

The best fifth wheel hitches in 2026 combine safety, durability, and ease of use in proportions that match your specific towing setup. For most RVers, the B&W Companion RVK3500 remains the top overall choice with its proven articulating head design and lifetime warranty. If weight and easy removal are your priorities, the Andersen Ultimate lineup is unbeatable at 37 to 40 pounds.

For budget-conscious buyers, the CURT E16 delivers solid performance at the lowest cost. And if you have a factory puck system from Ford, Ram, or GM, the B&W OEM-specific models give you the cleanest and most secure installation available. Match your hitch to your truck bed type, verify your weight ratings, and you will enjoy safe, quiet towing for years.