Top 10 Best Fifth Wheel Hitch 2024 – Review & Buyer’s Guide

The thing about hauling 5th wheel trailers is that it’s a highly functional task. And you can’t perform it without a specialized hitch like the best fifth wheel hitch.

There are tons of them currently available for moving things around has now become a big business. So having to deal with such a large number is not only difficult but confusing too. This is where I come into the picture.

Well, not me particularly. But my expertise at providing the best RV 5th wheel hitch recommendations. The first and most important thing to understand is the weight of the fifth wheel when it’s fully loaded.

That’s because there’s no point in buying a hitch that doesn’t support the weight of your furniture and other gear. And let’s not even talk about how dangerous it is to buy without weighing.

Once that is in place, you can scroll down to gain access to all the information about the top picks on the current market.

Best Fifth Wheel Hitch: Top 10 Reviews

My recommendations discussed below give you a better understanding of what you’re getting yourself into. But if you only want to compare the highest rated hitches, here’s the comparison table.

Name	Price	Type	Weight Capacity
CURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel HitchCURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel Hitch	$$$	Double Jaw	25K lbs
Reese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel HitchReese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel Hitch	$$	Sliding	15K lbs
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel HitchB&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch	$$$$	Gooseneck	20K lbs
CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel HitchCURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch	$$	Double Jaw	20K lbs
Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel HitchReese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch	$$$$	Single Jaw	18K lbs
CURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel HitchCURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel Hitch	$$$	Sliding with Double Jaw	16K lbs
Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel HitchPro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch	$$	Four-Pivot	20K lbs
CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel HitchCURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch	$	Two-Pivot	16K lbs
B and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel HitchB and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch	$$$$	Double Jaw	20K lbs
Andersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel HitchAndersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch	$$$	–	20K lbs

Our Top Picks for 2024

1. CURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel Hitch – The Best High-Quality Double Jaw Fifth Wheel Hitch

If you buy an ordinary hitch, it might not be able to carry heavy-loaded trailers. So to work with something like that you require the best fifth wheel hitch that has a double jaw design.

Such as the CURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel Hitch. The Q-series of the company offers options for not only 25K pounds but also 24K and 20K. So you can pick either this 25K version or the other two.

Depending on the weight you want it to carry! In terms of price, the CURT 16049 Q25 is not one of the expensive models. It is priced below $1000, which, given its high functionality, is quite reasonable.

Now let me tell you all about its high functionality. The CURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel Hitch features an invaluable dual jaw locking system. And that too with indicators! These integrated indicators eliminate the potential wobbly connection between the vehicle and trailer when unlocked.

What’s even more appealing is the remarkable axial bearings. The spherical, multi-spatial axial bearings bring forth easy maneuverability. Without affecting the performance factor!

The components enable smooth and quiet towing. And to enhance the experience even further, CURT provides you with all essential bolts and screws for hassle-free assembly and attachments.

So what you’re looking at is the best double jaw fifth wheel hitch that won’t let you down in matters of performance.

It’s the weight capacity of the product that makes an impression. It has the ability to handle weights as high as 24,000 pounds.

That makes the CURT 16049 Q25 Fifth Wheel Hitch suitable for moving houses and camping. With such a competitive load capacity, it comes as a shock to find out that the unit doesn’t cost much.

Unfortunately, the height adjustment of this thing is not built to accommodate all vehicles. So it’s better to check the height of the vehicle you want to tow before you buy the CURT 16049 Q25.

 

2. Reese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel Hitch – The Best Affordable Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch

When I say that the Reese Pro Series 30128 allows you to make tight turns even when the trailer is loaded, what comes to mind first? Will it smash your truck? Well, the answer is NO.

The unit I’m currently reviewing features a phenomenal slider design. And with that in place, there’s no smashing of any kind. The slider structure is specifically crafted for trucks with a short bed and extended cab. And that’s how this best fifth wheel hitch makes way for clearance during those tight turns.

That too without causing any sort of damage! The weight capacity, in this case, is 15,000 pounds. But the fact that you can use it on short and long bed trucks is what sounds the most convincing. As for the height, it’s plenty adjustable. So you can achieve the fit your desire.

Since you’re looking for the best fifth wheel hitch, here’s something that might push you towards buying this model. The Reese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel Hitch has a four-directional pivoting head. That means the equipment provides a jerk-free, quiet ride.

Irrespective of what you’re hauling! Assembly and disassembly are also error-free, effortless tasks. And why wouldn’t they be when Reese has included the much-needed installation kit!

So expect nothing but greatness from the inexpensive Reese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel Hitch.

What’s to like about this particular pick? The rounded sliding bar mechanism that enables automatic latching. The well-cushioned grip handle for added comfort.

The four-directional pivoting head to make hookup easier. Even on the uneven/bumpy ground! And lastly, the height adjustment feature for different trailers. There’s everything in here to fit your convenience!

So what’s disappointing about the Reese Pro Series 30128 Fifth Wheel Hitch? It looks like the company hasn’t paid much attention to quality control. So the end product is not what you expect in terms of quality.

 

3. B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – The Best Gooseneck Fifth Wheel Hitch

The strength and power of this B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch are factors responsible for placing it on my list. The unit is simply perfect for your long-haul journey with an RV or trailer attached to the truck.

If you ask any hitch expert, he/she will tell you all about the high-quality products that B&W manufactures. And this particular option is no exception.

It utilizes an excellent mounting system to make installation seem like a breeze. The gooseneck design allows you to tow trailers while also leaving your vehicle bed free. For when you’re not hauling the load! What you’re looking at is a durable, sturdy hitch with the ability to pull RVs and trailers weighing 20,000 pounds.

Furthermore, the completely articulated head enables front, back, and side pivoting without any hassles. That means you get access to tight maneuvering, which is great news.

You don’t even have to think about a smooth, quiet hauling operation as the equipment provides just that. And on both an off-beaten path and the highway!

Thanks to the polyurethane bushings. They amplify the jerk and noise reduction capabilities of the B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch. So now you know why I’m recommending this product to you.

All that’s required to do; pull that lever to activate the gooseneck designed ball. Then slide in that attachment post found in the kit. Position the base on top of the shank before tightening the bolts.

That’s about it in terms of installation. And even removing the unit is pretty much as easy as this.

So leave no room for uncertainty when dealing with the B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch.

The drawback I’m about to discuss is only negligible. In fact, it’s not even worth mentioning. But I’m going to anyway. It’s better for you to know every little detail, positive and negative.

The B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch is relatively heavier than the other models. Now you decide if this sounds important or not.

 

4. CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch – The Best Affordable Double Jaw Fifth Wheel Hitch

The second pick by CURT is one that offers a load capacity of 20,000 pounds. It’s the budget-friendly CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch.

It also ranks as one of the highest rated stationary hitches. But to tell you the truth, that’s not the unique selling point of this best fifth wheel hitch. The most attractive characteristic is the 3-position coupler.

You can spot this from the rearview mirrors. So you know that the equipment is locked in. And that does eliminate a ton of worries, doesn’t it? Furthermore, there’s the dual jaw working mechanism. It wraps around that kingpin in the most efficient manner.

That means minimal movement and noise while driving. Then comes in the spherical shaped axial bearing system for mounting! With such a structure, the hitch is allowed to move in different directions.

So the CURT 16130 Q20 is perfect for steep hills and rough terrain. Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that the unit is powder coated. That keeps rust away from it for a long, long time.

So this particular CURT model does live up to your expectations in terms of features, doesn’t it?

You know that the product at hand can carry weights as high as 20,000 pounds. But did you know that it also has the capacity to accept vertical loads of 5,000 pounds? So if you wish to haul a huge recreational vehicle, this is what you should buy.

On top of that, towing is quiet and smooth with unimpeded movement of the head. The turning radius is also wide enough. So you’re dealing with no disappointments here.

But that doesn’t solve the problem that you might encounter with the CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch. Just like the previous CURT model, this one too lacks height adjustments. So proceed only after measuring the height of your ride.

 

5. Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch – The Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Lighter Towing and Smaller Trailers

The first Reese product discussed in the article is suitable to handle heavy-duty towing.

But this one is specifically crafted for hauling lighter, smaller trailers. Also, please note that the Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch is an ideal pick for those who have full-sized trucks.

In that case, it has every feature you might need for easy coupling and installation. The best part about this option is that it arrives pre-assembled.

All that’s left is to place/mount it on the truck. As for the coupling process, you’ll appreciate the extra-strong single jaw design.

Along with the quick-lock, high-strength mounting system! So you can back it into place in the smoothest manner.

Without causing any damage! Here’s another piece of excellent news. The funnel is wide enough, meaning there’s no need to be troubled about precision during coupling. Then there’s the kingpin indicator too. It ensures that you’re loaded and locked before heading out anywhere.

In that context, you might even value the presence of the lockable handle.

That’s bad news for thieves when you’re parked overnight. So to sum it up, the Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch features every single component to make the experience smooth, stable, and safe.

Looking for an honest feedback? Well, here it is. The Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch is easy and quick to install. It fits into place without having to make even a single major adjustment. You can go as far as you like with minimal noise.

Also, the remarkable four-directional pivoting head ceases to make driving through rough terrain a concern.

Instead, the only thing to be concerned about with this model is the paint job. It’s susceptible to chipping off sooner than expected. Also, in terms of maintenance, the unit does require you to make some extra efforts.

 

6. CURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel Hitch – The Most Durable Fifth Wheel Hitch

This particular CURT creation scores the highest marks when it comes to durability.

You won’t find anything better than the CURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel Hitch in terms of long-lasting value. Even the two previous CURT products discussed above don’t match up to that level.

The unit I’m currently reviewing is stronger with the ability to handle the excess weight. Now, allow me to bring a common problem to your notice. Stationary hitches prove to be problematic during tight turns. And at such times, you end up smashing or hitting something.

So to address the issue, CURT designed this unit with an invaluable sliding mechanism. That way, you have the freedom to pull back the trailer to enable better turning. Plus, the component responsible for the flawless functionality of the sliding system is rollers.

Unlike other hitches that use hollow rails. So it’s clear that you’ll be dealing with an even weight distribution. And it’s because of this particular characteristic that maximum durability takes control.

As the hitch doesn’t even bend when under pressure! As for the dual jaw mechanism, it doesn’t fail at wrapping around that kingpin. That means no noise during riding either. So if you value quality as much as longevity, you won’t regret buying this pick.

The CURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel Hitch is packed with too many exceptional features. For starters, it offers double interlocking jaws to create a secure, tight seal.

Then comes the roller-sliding functionality to make the tightest of turns. Even mounting is a straightforward process. Thanks to the extra-broad opening.

In all, it’s a durable fifth wheel hitch capable of exceeding all your expectations.

If you’re the only one assembling the unit, be ready to face disappointments. So it’s a better idea to ask for help when installing the CURT 16521 A16 5th Wheel Hitch.

 

7. Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch – The Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Short Bed

Not many fifth wheel hitches are created to work on short beds. But, fortunately, the Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch is.

In fact, the equipment is perfect for long beds as well. It has the capacity to tow heavy-duty loads. As high as 20,000 pounds! And stability is not lost in the process.

I have tested this and many more such hitches, so I request you to take my word for it. The package features a solid four-directional pivoting head.

In simple language, that means easy maneuverability at the time you need it the most. And when is that? When you’re in tight spaces! Expect no bumps or jerks whenever you tow your RV or trailer.

The Pro Series 20K also ranks as the smoothest 5th wheel hitch. You can use it on all types of road surfaces without any worries.

The tight locking system keeps the trailer attached to the truck in the securest manner. The design of the Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch is plenty practical.

It features a handle that’s the easiest to reach. And if you’re thinking that you might have to spend big bucks given the presence of all these exceptional features, you’re wrong.

It’s not an expensive pick and offers an excellent value for your money. So leave no room for suspicion or even confusion when taking this particular option into account.

Value for your money! That’s the only way I would like to describe the Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch. The thing provides a tight, secure clam-shell lock-up.

A smooth ride with minimal chucking and easier unlocking when unhitching! This is the kind of experience you’re paying for with the Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch.

Everything about the product is up to the mark. The only department in which Pro Series is a bit lacking is the installation kit.

 

8. CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch – The Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Versatile Towing/Hauling Applications

CURT doesn’t fail at manufacturing hitches to suit all types of user needs and requirements. For versatile applications, it presents the CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch.

I would also like to state that this particular model is the cheapest on the list. In terms of nothing but the cost! The little affordable wonder is capable of delivering a smooth ride with maximum driving control. And the features responsible for such an action are the remarkable skid plate and double pivoting head.

The latter, in particular, plays a major part.

Thanks to its anti-rattle quality. Furthermore, this best fifth wheel hitch features an all-steel construction. One that is coated with durable carbide finish!

So much to improve sturdiness while also preventing unnecessary dents and scratches! What else is unique about this pick? The height adjustments, of course!

These are components that contribute to bringing tons of versatility into play. You might also admire the presence of the double-pin head. It makes the process of detaching the hitch a single-person job.

Installation is simple and quick. Durability is maximum with minimum maintenance. And hauling capacity is one of the highest. So there’s nothing that can go wrong with the CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch.

The best three features of this CURT creation say a lot about the way it functions. The first component is the double pivoting head.

The second is the 10-degree lateral movement. And the third feature is the rattle-resistant skid plate. All three combine to provide a quiet, smooth ride. Irrespective of the condition of the surface you’re driving on!

Now you should know that most fifth wheel hitches are equipped with a self-leveling head. It’s because such an element makes the process of coupling easier. But, to my surprise, this is not the case with the CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch.

 

9. B and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch – The Most User-Friendly Fifth Wheel Hitch

Why should you or anyone want to buy the B and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch? The answer is as simple as the working mechanism of this model.

It’s because the unit is the easiest to use, handle, install, remove, and maintain. And if I’m missing any other major aspect, then it performs impressively in that department as well.

But how is something like this possible? When the best fifth wheel hitch is equipped with a remarkable rail-free structure, anything is possible.

Such a design allows for complete truck bed access once the equipment is removed. On top of that, it offers a hauling capacity of as much as 20,000 pounds. With the vertical loading limit of 5,000 pounds! And in order to keep the RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch in great condition, B&W has equipped it with powder coating.

That brings corrosion resistance into the picture. For improved flexibility and dynamics, there’s nothing better than this particular option.

The addition of three different height settings as well as polyurethane bushings is what’s remarkable.

As these components ensure that your ride remains rattle-free and quiet. Even installation is not a worry. Given the presence of four integrated receiver pucks!

So to get your hands on something accessible and powerful, do consider the B and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch.

It’s the excellent two-piece structure that makes a solid impression. Because there’s nothing more convenient than being able to remove and install the hitch easily! The cam-activated latching system is known for effortless release and hookup.

But the bigger picture presents itself in the form of the well-machined locking jaws. They are equipped with optimally tight tolerances. So you can achieve that perfect connection for a smooth hauling experience.

After examining the product, I realized that the company didn’t so well in terms of quality control.

 

10. Andersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch – The Bonus Pick

You’ll be thrilled to know that the bonus pick offers the quickest installation. The Andersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch can accommodate loads as high as 20,000 pounds.

A smooth drive is what it claims to provide. And trust me, it’s no false claim. The unit has the ability to swivel in all directions. But it’s the phenomenal ball-funnel feature that’s responsible for easy removal and hookup.

So you can disconnect and connect the trailer with nothing but maximum ease. Moreover, the Andersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch is suitable for long, short, and standard bed trucks. And you don’t even require any additional adapters or parts for installation. (What are drop hitch receivers?)

A noiseless and smooth drive is exactly what you get with this particular model. So don’t expect it to perform any less competitively.

The Andersen Hitches 3200 Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitchis quite an advanced product. The unique ball-funnel component is something you might not come across on most models. With such a feature, you can remain above the ball across any direction.

While also still dropping onto that ball! So if you’re expecting to face problems related to that department or overall performance, you’ll be glad to face disappointment.

The only complaint I have about the equipment is related to its pin box. Since the thing is not positioned properly, it tends to hit the truck bed sides.

 

What You Need to Know about Fifth Wheel Hitch

Different Types of the Best Fifth Wheel Hitch

If you want to know all about choosing the best fifth wheel hitch, you need to understand its basic anatomy. Having said which, you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision. Depending on your trailer, truck, and hauling requirements.

Types of Fifth Wheel Hitch

1. Gooseneck

There are some trailers that hang on top of the truck bed’s back. That means they demand additional support to carry the excessive pin weight.

Gooseneck hitches are specifically crafted for these trailers. So they have the ability to provide an optimal amount of weight distribution and pivot. To keep the RV and truck safe when you’re driving!

2. Two-Pivot

The two-pivot version is designed to move in only two directions. Guess what they are? Forward and back. Such movement enables your truck to travel down and up hills. But without swaying from one side to the other! That means you’ll have to keep a lookout for road bumps and potholes.

3. Four-Pivot

Then comes the four-pivot fifth wheel hitch for total flexibility. It makes room for all the rocking and swaying when on uneven terrain. So when using this particular type, expect the truck bed and hitch to remain in pristine condition.

4. Sliding

As for sliding hitches, they are suitable for a short/small truck bed. To be more specific, anything less than 8 feet is more like it. The best fifth wheel hitch for short bed ensures that your trailer doesn’t crash into the cab during those tight turns.

The sad part is that such a model requires manual sliding. So you go through the trouble of getting out for making trailer adjustments before locking in the hitch.

Then you make that tight turn and once again get out to reset it. The good news here is that you’ll come across automatic models as well. But they are not easy on the wallet. So it’s only a matter of whether the heavy price is worth it or not.

5. Double Jaw

The double jaw 5th wheel hitch is quite common. Its mechanism encompasses the two kingpins. More often than not, these jaws interlock. But that’s not the case always.

They have the ability to reduce movement and noise while driving. However, here’s the downside. Since there are two jaws, each one consists of lesser strength than both together.

6. Single Jaw

Hauling heavy trailers demands the use of the best single jaw 5th wheel hitch. Trailers weighing above 25K lbs require such a single jaw design. Given its ability to deliver more strength! And also handle the heavy weight in a much better manner.

Also, since the model includes only one unit, there’s no need to stress about the hitch breaking down during transit. Unlike its double jaw counterpart!

Important Factors for Buying the Best Fifth Wheel Hitch

The only way to differentiate between good and bad comes in the form of essential factors. They are an integral part of every buyer’s guide. So to choose the best fifth wheel hitch, here’s what you need to take into account.

Installation

It goes without saying that your truck and trailer should match. Otherwise, installation becomes difficult. There are many units currently available that enable easy installation without having to ask for help.

In that case, look for brands that provide you with a useful kit. So there’s no need for you to head out to your local store to buy individual parts.

Usability

In terms of use, the easier the better. Am I right? Convenience is considered to be the greatest factor of all. Being able to disconnect and connect the hitch depending on your needs translates into easy usability.(Smart tips for towing a trailer)

Exterior

Every best fifth wheel hitch should be constructed using fiberglass material. It ensures a rich, glossy color and shine.

Weight Capacity

When using the wrong hitch, you’re inviting nothing but danger. It’s crucial to get a unit that supports the fully loaded weight of the trailer. An incorrect model that doesn’t accommodate the overall capacity is not safe in any way.

Price

Another useful suggestion is to correlate the features of the hitch to its price. If the equipment is expensive, then the features better be worth every penny. Even so, don’t let the price of the product define its quality. Because not all extravagant options boast of high quality! And not all cheap quality fifth wheel hitches are inexpensive.

Final Verdict

When having to choose between different hitches, it’s important to break down the options into 2 categories. These include fixed and sliding.

With that in place, the top stationary version is the CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch. As it features double jaws, spherical shaped axial bearings, and 3-position indicator for coupling.

Along with a head that’s self-aligning! For the top sliding hitch, I would recommend the Reese Pro Series 30128. You can easily take it off completely when not hauling the trailer.

Hence, the equipment is plenty versatile and robust. So figure out your requirements and pick either one.

Here are some other interesting models that you might like: