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While buying a new set of tires, it is important to know which one is going to be the best fit for your vehicle. Two of the most sought after sizes for the SUVs, trucks, and off-road vehicles are the 275/55R20 and the 285/55R20. Though the difference between these sizes is not very clear, still they have different dimensions, performance attributes and more which is important to understand. In this article, you’ll learn what are the differences between 275 55r20 vs 285 55r20, their characteristics, and possible uses to better understand which option is most suitable for you.
About Tire Size Code
Before diving into the comparison, let’s see what the numbers in 275/55R20 and 285/55R20 mean:
275/285: The first figure represents the width of the tire in millimeters. The 275/55R20 tire is 275mm wide and a 285/55R20 has a slightly larger width of 285mm.
55: This number is the aspect ratio which indicates the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall height is 55% of the width for both tires.
R: This letter means Radial construction and it is the most common construction type for latest vehicles.
20: This last figure means the diameter of the wheel in inches, for which the given tire is designated for.
With this knowledge as the ground, we can compare and contrast these two tires sizes.
Features of 275/55R20 and 285/55R20 Tires
Width and Contact Patch
275/55R20: Its width is only 275 mm, so the contact patch is slightly narrower.
285/55R20: The 285 mm width allows for a greater contact area and thus better grip and stability especially during cornering or driving in off road conditions.
If you are targeting better traction especially off road or where there is loose surface the wider 285/55R20 tire will be appropriate. However, the 275/55R20 tire might have slightly better fuel economy than the 285/55R20 due to lower rolling resistance.
Sidewall Height
Despite having the same aspect ratio i.e. 55%, we must admit that the width difference will make the 285/55R20 tires slightly taller than the 275/55R20 tires.
275/55R20: About 151.25 millimeters of sidewall height.
285/55R20: About 156.75 millimeters of sidewall height.
More height on the sidewall creates superior cushioning and shock absorption that are much needed in off road conditions. On the other hand, the shorter sidewall of 275/55R20 may afford better response to highway drive and give a sportier look.
Overall Diameter and Ground Clearance
The overall diameter of a tire slightly influences your vehicle’s ground clearance and performance.
275/55R20: It is about 31.9 inches in diameter.
285/55R20: It is about 32.3 inches in diameter.
On ground contact, the extra width of the 285/55R20 contributes to slightly more clearance to the ground which may be very important when pulling through rough terrain or deep snow.
Weight and Fuel Efficiency
Wider and larger tires are heavier and they impact on the fuel rates in most cases.
275/55R20: It is lighter because of the slimmer width.
285/55R20: It is heavier, resulting in increased rolling resistance that can decrease fuel efficiency.
For daily usage such as to and from work, or for any driver who is conscious about costs of fueling the car, the 275/55R20 tire is better. The 285/55R20, on the other hand, will be a much better choice to the one who does not really care about fuel economy, and who wants capability and performance.
Performance Features Comparison
On-Road Handling and Comfort
- 275/55R20: Has better response, especially to steering commands due to its thin construction and lighter weight. The additional shorter sidewall also helps in decreased flex during driving and therefore increases stability on highways.
- 285/55R20: Although it has slightly less tractive effort, the greater contact area means an improved traction, especially at high speed while carrying heavy loads.
As for highway and city traffic conditions, go for the 275/55R20 option.
Off-Road Performance
- 275/55R20: Is quite good on relatively rough terrain but, on deep mud or loose sand it will be struggling because of a relatively narrow width of the tire’s body and, therefore, smaller contact area.
- 285/55R20: Performs well in off-road conditions, given the wider track width and slightly higher profile.
For off-road use, the wider 285/55R20 tires are the best.
Wet and Snow Traction
- 275/55R20: The narrower tires tend to do better in deep snow because they can reach down to the traction layer. But it may not provide better traction on the wet roads as more extensive tires do.
- 285/55R20: The increased width of the contact patch increases traction on wet surfaces and avoids the risk of hydroplaning.
Each tire has its pros and cons: the 275/55R20 excels in snow and the 285/55R20 in moderate wet roads.
Load Carrying Capacity
Load ratings are tied to the model of the tire and the brand of the tire. But in a general way Load ratings of the wider tires like the 285/55R20 are greater than the load rating of comparatively narrow tires.
The 285/55R20 gives more ways for demanding use.
Applications of 275/55R20 and 285/55R20 Tires
Popular tires for 275/55R20 and 285/55R20 Sizes
Popular 275/55R20 Tire Models
Michelin Defender LTX M/S: A long-wearing touring tire that affords users very good wet and dry handling.
Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure: All-season tire designed to perform equally well on highways and off highways.
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus: This product is popular among buyers thanks to its low noise and durability of the tread.
Popular 285/55R20 Tire Models
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: One of the external choices for achieving the best off-road performance and vehicle toughness.
Nitto Ridge Grappler: Provides the elements of magnificent off road performance with great road feel.
Toyo Open Country A/T III: Provides very good grip on the roads and even on the snowy ones.
Final Words
275/55R20 and 285/55R20 are pretty much the same and are just depending on the driver's needs and demands. If your driving needs are more specific, towards fuel efficiency, better handling, and better comfort for daily driving, then the 275/55R20 tire is perfect for you. In off-road use, demanding situations, and stronger stability it’s better to go for 285/55R20 tires.