Roller bearings use cylindrical rolling elements that have a wider contact surface with the bearing raceway which distributes load more evenly, allowing them to tolerate higher loads than ball bearings. Cylindrical roller bearings handle heavy radial and impact loads. Spherical roller bearings support heavy radial loads in applications prone to misalignment and shaft deflection. Needle roller bearings have a thin profile for applications where the radial space is limited. Tapered roller bearings support heavy radial, axial, or thrust loads.