Nv4500 or nv3500 in my 4x4 4runner swap?

What's up guys I need some advice from people who have real world experience with these two transmission.

I'm currently swapping a 5.3 into my 95 4runner. I already have the transfer case I'm going to use.

I can get both these transmission for same price from local salvage.
Nv3500 4x4 is a 2003 Silverado
Nv4500 4x4 is from 2001 Silverado 2500


Now I know the difference in gearing. But they both have the same final overdrive ratio for 5th

I also know the 4500 is slightly bigger heavier

But the 4500 is also easily serviceable where the 3500 is not.


Now my build is not a rock crawler, or even going to see crazy trails. This is a daily driven lifted 4x4 that will see freeway drives to vacation sites and maybe some off-road but nothing wild.


I have swapped LS stuff in cars and I'm used to the t56. Not these.


So in your opinion which should I get? The 4500 bc it's beefier but has closer gearing? Will that really matter since I'm more interested in overdrive on freeway and not racing around.

Or should I go with the 3500?

Install is not a problem.

I'm guessing people will say 4500

Just wanted to know people's experience with these too.