275/55R20 vs 305/50R20
305/50R20 is 0.10″ (2 mm) taller than 275/55R20, a 0.3% difference in overall diameter — comfortably inside the ±3% band most fitment guides use, so it swaps straight across for gearing and the speedometer.
| Measurement | 275/55R20 | 305/50R20 | Difference | % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 31.91″ | 32.01″ | +0.10″ | +0.3% |
| Section width | 10.83″ | 12.01″ | +1.18″ | +10.9% |
| Sidewall height | 5.95″ | 6.00″ | +0.05″ | +0.8% |
| Circumference | 100.25″ | 100.56″ | +0.31″ | +0.3% |
| Revs per mile | 632.0 | 630.1 | −1.9 | −0.3% |
| Revs per km | 392.7 | 391.5 | −1.2 | −0.3% |
Speedometer: with 275/55R20 as the original, 305/50R20 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 60.2 mph, and the axle sits ~0.05″ higher.
Reading this comparison
The overall diameter is what matters here: 305/50R20 is the taller tire. It sets ride height, gearing and how far the tire travels per revolution — which is what the speedometer and odometer count. Width and sidewall change fit and feel (a wider tire needs a wider wheel and more clearance; a shorter sidewall sharpens steering) but not the gearing.
Figures are geometric estimates from the size codes; real moulded tires vary by brand by 1–3%. Confirm load rating, wheel width and physical clearance on your vehicle before fitting. To compare any other two sizes, use the tire size comparison tool; to decode one size and see what else fits its wheel, the tire size calculator.