Best Self-Aligning Ball Bearings of 2025

Harvey Wall Avatar
Harvey Wall
Last Updated: 30 Jan 2025

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Self-aligning ball bearings are a type of rolling-element bearing that can accommodate misalignment between the shaft and housing without causing damage. This makes them ideal for applications where there may be shaft deflection or mounting errors. The bearings consist of two rows of balls and a common concave sphered raceway in the outer ring. They are commonly used in industrial machinery, automotive applications, and agricultural equipment. These bearings are designed to reduce friction and increase rotational efficiency, making them a reliable choice for a range of applications.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

sourcing map 4pcs 1029 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings Cover #TOP 1
sourcing map 4pcs 1029 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SKF 2205 E-2RS1KTN9 Self-Aligning Bearing Cover #TOP 2
SKF 2205 E-2RS1KTN9 Self-Aligning Bearing
ftb score rating icon 9.7
FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing Cover #TOP 3
FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings

#TOP 1

sourcing map 4pcs 1029 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings

a22041700ux0012
9x26x8mm
sourcing map 4pcs 1029 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings Cover
sourcing map 4pcs 1029 Self-Aligning Ball Bearings 9mm Bore 26mm OD 8mm Thickness Open Type Chrome Steel for Transmission

The sourcing map Self-Aligning Bearings are designed with a 9mm inner diameter and 26mm outer diameter, making them ideal for various applications. Made from chrome steel, these bearings offer excellent surface quality and durability, ensuring they can withstand high loads and resist wear over time. The double-row design and open type allow for better alignment, which is especially useful in situations where centring the shaft and housing is challenging. Additionally, their ABEC1 accuracy provides reliable performance for your mechanical needs.

What We Like
Durable chrome steel construction
Good load capacity
Open type for easy maintenance
Suitable for misaligned shafts
Reliable ABEC1 accuracy
#TOP 2

SKF 2205 E-2RS1KTN9 Self-Aligning Bearing

SKF
2205 E-2RS1KTN9
SKF 2205 E-2RS1KTN9 Self-Aligning Bearing Cover
SKF 2205 E-2RS1KTN9 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

The SKF 2205 Bearing features a double row design, making it ideal for applications requiring stability and alignment. With its seals on both sides, you benefit from enhanced protection against contaminants, ensuring a longer lifespan. Its tapered bore type allows for easy installation and proper fitting, while the normal tolerance group guarantees reliable performance in various conditions. This combination of features makes the SKF 2205 Bearing a practical choice for those seeking durability and dependability in their machinery.

What We Like
Double row design for stability
Sealed for greater protection
Tapered bore for easy installation
Reliable normal tolerance
#TOP 3

FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

FAG
1205-TVH-C3
FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing Cover
FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Self Aligning Ball Bearing

The FAG 1205-TVH-C3 Bearing offers versatile functionality as it can support axial forces in both directions and radial forces, making it suitable for various applications. You will appreciate the added convenience of self-aligning capabilities, allowing the bearing to swivel approximately 4° around its central position under normal operating conditions. For those needing higher precision, sealed versions swivel by a maximum of 1.5°. Additionally, the open bearings with brass cages function effectively in operating temperatures ranging from -30 °C to +150 °C, ensuring reliability in extreme conditions.

What We Like
Supports axial and radial forces
Swivels for alignment flexibility
Works in extreme temperatures
Maintenance-free sealed option
#TOP 4

SKF 2308 EKTN9 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

SKF
2308 EKTN9
SKF 2308 EKTN9 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing Cover
SKF 2308 EKTN9 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

The SKF 2308 EKTN9 Bearing is designed for enhanced performance with its two rows of balls, providing stability and alignment. With a bore diameter of 40 mm and an outside diameter of 90 mm, it ensures a secure fit for various applications. The normal tolerance group (PN) allows for easy installation, while the CN radial internal clearance ensures smooth operation. As it comes without seals or lubricant, you have the flexibility to select the appropriate lubrication for your specific needs.

What We Like
Enhanced alignment capabilities
Versatile sizing options
Easy installation process
Custom lubrication selection
#TOP 5

NTN 1205 Double Row Self-Aligning Bearing

NTN
NTN 1205
NTN 1205 Double Row Self-Aligning Bearing Cover
NTN Bearing 1205 Double Row Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing, Normal Clearance, Standard Cage, 25 mm Bore ID, 52 mm OD, 15 mm Width, Open

The NTN 1205 Bearing is designed to accommodate shaft deflections and misalignments, making it ideal for various applications. Its straight bore allows for easy fitting onto a conventional cylindrical shaft, providing convenience for installation. The steel cage ensures that the balls are evenly spaced, which helps reduce friction, vibration, and noise during operation. Additionally, being an open bearing allows you to apply lubrication directly where needed, enhancing its performance and longevity.

What We Like
Self-aligning for misalignment issues
Easy installation on cylindrical shafts
Reduces friction and noise
Open design for easy lubrication
#TOP 6

SKF 2209 EKTN9/C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

SKF
2209 EKTN9/C3
SKF 2209 EKTN9/C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing Cover
SKF 2209 EKTN9/C3 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

The SKF 2209 Bearing features a double-row design, making it ideal for self-alignment in various applications. With a bore diameter of 45 mm and an outside diameter of 85 mm, it provides a robust solution for accommodating misalignment. The normal tolerance group ensures reliable performance, while the C3 radial internal clearance allows for higher speeds and improved load-carrying capacity. These features contribute to enhanced durability and efficiency, giving you peace of mind in your machinery's operation.

What We Like
Self-aligning design
High load capacity
Robust construction
Normal tolerance group
Ideal for various applications
#TOP 7

NTN 1310 Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing

NTN
NTN 1310
NTN 1310 Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing Cover
NTN Bearing 1310 Double Row Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing, Normal Clearance, Standard Cage, 50 mm Bore ID, 110 mm OD, 27 mm Width, Open

The NTN 1310 Bearing is designed for applications where shaft deflections or misalignments may occur. Its self-aligning feature ensures smooth operation even under challenging conditions, providing you with peace of mind. The straight bore allows for easy fitting onto a conventional cylindrical shaft, making installation straightforward. Additionally, the steel cage evenly spaces the balls, which helps to reduce friction, vibration, and noise, enhancing the overall performance and longevity of your machinery.

What We Like
Self-aligning for easy installation
Reduces friction and noise
Durable steel cage construction
Open design for lubrication
Normal clearance for standard use
#TOP 8

NTN 1210 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing, 50 mm

NTN
NTN 1210
NTN 1210 Self-Aligning Ball Bearing, 50 mm Cover
NTN Bearing 1210 Double Row Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing, Normal Clearance, Standard Cage, 50 mm Bore ID, 90 mm OD, 20 mm Width, Open

The NTN 1210 Bearing is designed for applications where shaft deflections or misalignments may occur. Its self-aligning feature allows for easy installation and reliable performance even in less-than-perfect conditions. The straight bore makes it suitable for conventional cylindrical shafts, ensuring a proper fit. With a steel cage that spaces the balls evenly, it reduces friction, vibration, and noise, providing a smoother operation for your machinery.

What We Like
Self-aligning for easy installation
Reduces friction and noise
Suitable for cylindrical shafts
Open design for lubrication
Normal clearance for standard applications
#TOP 9

NTN 1207 Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing

NTN
NTN 1207
NTN 1207 Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing Cover
NTN Bearing 1207 Double Row Self-Aligning Radial Ball Bearing, Normal Clearance, Standard Cage, Tapered Bore, 35 mm Bore ID, 72 mm OD, 17 mm Width, Open

The NTN 1207 Bearing is designed for applications where shaft misalignments or deflections may occur. Its self-aligning feature ensures smooth operation even when the shaft is not perfectly aligned, providing you with greater reliability. The straight bore allows for easy fitting on conventional cylindrical shafts, saving you time during installation. Additionally, the steel cage effectively spaces the balls, which reduces friction, vibration, and noise, enhancing the overall performance of your machinery.

What We Like
Self-aligning for easy use
Straight bore for simple fitting
Reduces friction and noise
Open for easy lubrication
#TOP 10

FAG Self-Aligning Bearing 1200TV 10mm

FAG
1200-TVH
FAG Self-Aligning Bearing 1200TV 10mm Cover
FAG 1200TV Self-Aligning Bearing, Double Row, Open, Steel Cage, Normal Clearance, Metric, 10mm ID, 30mm OD, 9mm Width, 30000rpm Maximum Rotaional Speed, 270lbf Static Load Capacity, 1220lbf Dynamic Load Capacity

The FAG 1200TV Bearing is designed for applications where shaft misalignments or deflections may occur. Its self-aligning feature allows for smoother operation, reducing wear and increasing longevity. The straight bore makes it easy for you to fit onto a conventional cylindrical shaft. With its open configuration, you can easily apply lubrication directly, ensuring optimal performance. Additionally, the steel cage design helps to evenly space the balls, which reduces friction, vibration, and noise during operation.

What We Like
Reduces friction and vibration
Easy lubrication access
Self-aligning for misalignment issues
Straight bore for simple fitting
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a self aligning ball bearing used for?

Self-aligning Ball Bearings are particularly suitable for applications where misalignment occurs from errors in mounting or from shaft deflection. This bearing should only be used in light axial load applications due to the small axial capacity.

2. How do self aligning linear bearings work?

This self-alignment capability is made possible by the design of the load bearing plates, which can be sharply crowned, gradually crowned, or radiused. Sharply crowned designs use bearing plates that are thinner on the ends than in the middle, allowing the plate to “rock” around a pivot point at its center.

3. Are tapered roller bearings self aligning?

Tapered roller bearings also have static misalignment limitations however, in some applications the bearing housings can be designed so the bearing can self align properly. One of the other disadvantages is with speed limitations.

4. What is a self aligning pillow block bearing?

MRC self-aligning bearings have two rows of balls with a common sphered raceway in the outer ring. This gives the bearings their self-aligning property, permitting angular misalignment of the shaft relative to the housing.

Editor's Notes

During our self-aligning ball bearing research, we found 23 self-aligning ball bearing products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,040 customer reviews through our big data system to write the self-aligning ball bearings list. We found that most customers choose self-aligning ball bearings with an average price of £30.97.

The self-aligning ball bearings are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of self-aligning ball bearings, including sourcing map, SKF, FAG, NTN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 20,020 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Harvey Wall Avatar

Harvey Wall was born and raised in Norwich. He mastered the art of tool production and finished at the prestigious Norwich University. His area of interest include cutting tools, abrasive finishing and power tools. Harvey is always looking for ways to improve the finesse of industrial tools via his myriads of researches. He also shares some of his experiences on many platforms while writing on tool products.