While self aligning bearings offer significant advantages in terms of accommodating misalignment and reducing maintenance, they also have some disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is their susceptibility to higher friction and wear under heavy loads or high-speed conditions. This is due to the extra movement within the bearing as it adjusts to misalignment. Additionally, self aligning bearings can be more expensive than standard bearings, which might be a consideration for cost-sensitive applications. They also have a lower load capacity compared to some other bearing types of the same size. In environments with high levels of contamination or dirt, self aligning bearings may require more frequent maintenance and cleaning to prevent performance issues. Therefore, while they are highly beneficial in certain applications, it's important to consider these factors when choosing the appropriate bearing type for a specific use case.