Needle roller bearings are roller bearings with cylindrical rollers that are small in diameter. In spite of their low cross section, needle roller bearings have a high load carrying capacity and are therefore extremely suitable for bearing arrangements where radial space is limited.Needle roller bearings utilize small, cylindrical rollers, referred to as needle rollers, to reduce friction between moving components. The needle rollers are the load-carrying components of the needle roller bearing. They are located between two races, between a single race and a shaft.

Needle roller thrust bearings are available as a roller and cage assembly, are available without a washer, or are available as a complete assembly including a washer. Needle roller thrust bearings without a washer are ideal for tight spaces where the facing surface acts as the bearing raceway.