Axial ball bearings are pure axial bearings, which means that they may only be subjected to predominantly axial load. However, depending on the axial load and speed range, very small radial forces can also be transmitted.

Axial ball bearings also include axial deep groove ball bearings and axial angular contact ball bearings. Axial angular contact ball bearings can support lower axial loads than comparable axial ball bearings but have a higher radial load carrying capacity.