Last reviewed: May 2026 - MLC editorial team - UK trade engineering perspective
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SKF and FAG are the two bearings that show up on every UK industrial bill of materials. They're functionally interchangeable for most applications-but the differences matter when you're specifying for life-cycle cost, sealed-for-life service, or temperature extremes. Both brands offer a wide range of products including deep groove ball bearings, tapered roller bearings, and cylindrical roller bearings. In the UK engineering trade, buyers often find that SKF is more readily available through local distributors, while FAG may require direct ordering from Germany. This can impact lead times and inventory management for maintenance teams. Additionally, when it comes to specialised applications such as high-speed machinery or extreme operating conditions, each brand offers unique features that could influence your choice based on specific performance criteria.
What they have in common
- Both meet ISO 15 dimensional standards - a 6205 from either brand is dimensionally identical to a 6205 from any other reputable maker.
- Both publish full ISO 281 dynamic load ratings (C) and ISO 76 static load ratings (Cor) - comparable on the same data basis.
- Both offer the same standard precision class (ABMA 0 / ISO P0) for general engineering, plus higher-precision P6 / P5 / P4 grades for machine tool spindles.
Header comparison
Where they differ
Premium-tier life rating
In UK trade workshops, SKF Explorer bearings claim a 50% longer L10 life compared to standard SKF models, while FAG X-life bearings boast a 30% increase over their standard counterparts. The FAG X-life achieves this with tighter geometric tolerances and superior surface finishing.
| Skf | SKF Explorer: ~50% longer L10 vs standard SKF (claimed) |
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| Fag | FAG X-life: ~30% longer L10 vs standard FAG (claimed). X-life uses tighter geometric tolerances and surface finishing. |
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Origin transparency
When comparing SKF and FAG bearings in terms of origin transparency, SKF's country of manufacture varies by series; for instance, 6200/6300 deep-groove bearings are often made in India. In contrast, genuine FAG bearings are exclusively German-made from Schweinfurt, though counterfeit versions from China pose a risk. For assured quality, purchase FAG through authorised UK distributors only.
| Skf | SKF distributes from multiple plants; the country marked on the bearing box varies by series. India-made SKFs are common in 6200/6300 deep-groove. |
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| Fag | Genuine FAG is German-made (Schweinfurt). Counterfeit FAG from China is a known risk - buy from Schaeffler-authorised UK distributors only. |
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Sealed-for-life ratings
When comparing sealed-for-life ratings for bearings, SKF's 2RS1 model is rated to operate continuously at 110°C, while its Energy Efficient seals run cooler. In contrast, FAG's standard 2RSR seal handles continuous operation up to 120°C, with their HRS high-temperature option extending this range to 160°C.
| Skf | Standard SKF 2RS1 rated to 110°C continuous. SKF Energy Efficient seals run cooler. |
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| Fag | FAG 2RSR rated to 120°C continuous. FAG HRS high-temp option to 160°C. |
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Hybrid ceramic option
When comparing SKF SunRife ceramic hybrid bearings and FAG HCB hybrid ceramics in high-speed spindle and EV motor applications, both offer a 30% speed increase over steel counterparts. The SKF variant is tailored for precision machinery, while the widely stocked FAG option suits similar industrial needs efficiently.
| Skf | SKF SunRise (ceramic hybrid) available - high-speed spindle and EV motor applications. |
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| Fag | FAG HCB hybrid ceramic widely stocked. Same 30% speed uplift over steel. |
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UK distributor breadth
In UK trade workshops, SKF bearings are widely available through multiple distributors such as Brammer, ERIKS, Bearing Service, Acorn, MSC, and Cromwell. In contrast, FAG bearings, part of the Schaeffler group, are primarily stocked by Schaeffler-direct, Brammer, and Acorn, making them less ubiquitous outside these channels compared to SKF.
| Skf | More UK distributors stock SKF - Brammer, ERIKS, Bearing Service, Acorn, MSC, Cromwell all carry it. |
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| Fag | Strong via Schaeffler-direct, Brammer, Acorn - less ubiquitous than SKF outside the trade-distributor network. |
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Counterfeit risk
When considering counterfeit risk for bearings in a UK trade workshop, SKF leads as the most counterfeited brand globally, necessitating the use of SKF's Authenticate app or purchasing from authorised distributors to ensure authenticity. FAG also faces widespread counterfeiting on platforms like eBay and Alibaba; however, Schaeffler's counterfeit-detection programme offers some protection, with recommendations to buy directly from Schaeffler.com or named UK distributors.
| Skf | Counterfeit SKF is the most-faked bearing brand globally. Use SKF's Authenticate app or buy from listed authorised distributors only. |
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| Fag | Counterfeit FAG is widespread on eBay/Alibaba. Schaeffler runs a counterfeit-detection programme; buy from Schaeffler.com or named UK distributors only. |
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Decision framework: when to pick each
| Scenario | Recommendation |
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| Cost-sensitive volume production | FAG standard - typically 10-15% cheaper than SKF for 6200/6300 series at trade prices. |
| Maximum life / minimum maintenance | SKF Explorer or FAG X-life - both deliver substantively longer L10. Choose by which your distributor stocks; performance is comparable in independent testing. |
| High-speed spindle (>50,000 RPM) | FAG HCB or SKF SunRise (both hybrid ceramic). Steel-only bearings won't survive. |
| Food / hygiene / IP69K | SKF Food Line - fully sealed, food-grade grease, marked with FDA-compliant logo. |
| Wind / generator / large size | SKF or NTN; FAG is less common in >1m bore sizes. SKF Energy Efficient is the OEM choice for many turbine designs. |
| Replacement on a Schaeffler-built machine | FAG (matches the build manual; OEM-spec parts compatibility). |
| Aerospace / motorsport scrutineering | Either, but specify the lot/heat number traceable certificate from the distributor - both brands provide it on request, costs £15-40 extra. |
Real trade scenarios
- Automotive workshop replacing wheel bearings: either works. SKF often easier to source same-day at MSC / Cromwell counters.
- Industrial pump rebuild: check pump's OEM manual - KSB and Grundfos typically spec SKF; Wilo and Lowara often spec FAG.
- Conveyor maintenance: FAG X-life pays back via reduced downtime over 24-month service intervals.
Related reference on MLC
Tools + parts for these comparisons (Amazon UK)
Frequently asked questions
Are SKF and FAG bearings actually different inside?
Yes. Both meet ISO 15 dimensional tolerances but internal geometry, surface finish, cage design and steel alloys differ. SKF Explorer and FAG X-life use proprietary processing for longer fatigue life. Standard-grade bearings from either brand have very similar performance for general engineering.
Can I substitute FAG for SKF (or vice versa) without changing anything else?
For a 6205-2RS or similar standard part - yes, dimensions are identical. For high-precision applications, machine-tool spindles, or sealed-for-life rated assemblies, check the OEM's recommended part numbers; cross-substitution can void warranty.
Why does my SKF box say 'Made in India'?
SKF operates plants in Sweden, Italy, Germany, India, China and Brazil. Standard 6000/6200/6300-series deep-groove from India is produced to the same SKF specification and quality system. SKF Explorer is mostly Italian/German made.
How do I spot counterfeit SKF or FAG bearings?
SKF: use the Authenticate app (free, scan box QR). FAG: cross-reference the lot code at schaeffler-medias.com. Buy from named authorised distributors (Brammer/Rubix, ERIKS, Schaeffler UK direct, Acorn Industrial). Avoid eBay/Alibaba for industrial bearings.
Is FAG owned by SKF?
No. FAG is part of Schaeffler Group (Germany) which also owns INA. SKF is an independent Swedish company. They are direct competitors.
Which lasts longer in practice - SKF Explorer or FAG X-life?
Comparable. SKF claims 50% L10 uplift vs standard SKF; FAG claims 30% uplift vs standard FAG. Independent fatigue testing places both substantively above their own standard grades, with no consistent winner across application types.
Are SKF and FAG more expensive than Chinese bearings?
Yes - typically 3-8× the price of unbranded Chinese 6205. The premium buys consistent material composition, traceable heat treatment, predictable L10 life, and counterfeit protection. For industrial OEM use the price difference is negligible vs unplanned downtime cost.
Do SKF and FAG use the same cages?
No. SKF mostly uses steel ribbon cages on standard deep groove, polyamide (PA66) on Explorer. FAG mostly uses steel for standard, brass or polyamide on X-life depending on speed rating. Cage choice affects max RPM rating and temperature limits.
Which is better for high-temperature applications?
FAG HRS (special high-temp seals + special grease) rated to 160°C continuous. SKF's nearest equivalent is the VA228 grease + Viton seal combination at 180°C continuous but it's a special-order item. For >100°C continuous, specify the high-temp variant from either brand - don't rely on standard 2RS.
What's the typical lead time on each?
SKF stocked items: same-day from Brammer/ERIKS/MSC. FAG stocked items: same-day from Schaeffler UK / Brammer. Non-stocked sizes: 2-6 weeks from European warehouses for both brands.
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