The most economical type of needle roller bearing is a full-complement of loose needle rollers assembled directly between a hardened and ground shaft and housing. Generally, hardened end washers provide axial location. This type appears in many applications such as those where a hardened and ground gear bore serves as the outer raceway.

When application requirements are met and assembly is not difficult, a full complement of rollers forms a bearing of small cross section and high load capacity. It is the lowest-cost rolling bearing per pound of capacity, and is of particular advantage where production rates justify automated assembly equipment.

Needle rollers come in several end configurations. Controlled contours have also been developed to reduce roller-end stress concentrations from misalignment or deflection of one or both raceways under load. Controlled contour refinement brings more uniform stress distribution and optimum bearing performance.