Crocodiles and alligators have fascinated people for centuries. These ancient reptiles are often mistaken for one another, but they have some key differences—especially when it comes to strength, speed, and fighting ability.
So, if a crocodile and an alligator went head-to-head, who would come out on top? Let’s take a closer look.
Both crocodiles and alligators are surprisingly quick, but they shine in different environments.
On land: Alligators have the upper hand here. They can sprint up to 35 mph (56 km/h) in short bursts, thanks to their strong, muscular legs. Crocodiles, on the other hand, are a bit slower on land, maxing out at around 20 mph (32 km/h).
In water: This is where crocodiles take the lead. Their streamlined bodies and powerful tails help them glide through water at 15-18 mph (24-29 km/h), while alligators typically reach 10-12 mph (16-19 km/h).
Both reptiles are incredibly strong, but crocodiles have the edge regarding raw power.
Bite force: Crocodiles have the strongest bite of any animal on the planet. Some species, like the saltwater crocodile, can bite down with an astonishing 3,700 psi (pounds per square inch) of force. In comparison, an alligator’s bite force is around 2,125 psi.
Size & weight: Crocodiles also tend to be larger and heavier. The biggest crocodiles can grow up to 23 feet (7 meters) long and weigh over 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg). Alligators, while still massive, usually top out at 14 feet (4.2 meters) and 1,000 pounds (450 kg).
If a crocodile and an alligator ever got into a serious fight, the crocodile would likely have the advantage. Crocodiles are generally bigger, so they have a natural edge in a physical confrontation.
Crocodiles are also known for being more aggressive and territorial. Alligators, on the other hand, are usually a bit more reserved.
Crocodiles could seriously damage an alligator in a fight with their extreme bite force.
That being said, alligators are more agile on land, so if the fight happened outside of water, they might have a better chance of escaping or counterattacking. However, in water—where both species thrive—a crocodile’s size and power would likely be too much for an alligator to handle.
