Abstract Due to the uncontrollable factors in the installation process, the angular misalignments of the inner and outer races may exist in deep groove ball bearings. In order to analyze the performances of bearings with misalignments, a quasi-static model of deep groove ball bearings is developed under the combined angular misalignments and external loads. In this model, considering the different cases of the combined angular misalignments, the time-invariant or time-varying abnormal preload caused by the misalignment is calculated. The proposed model also considers the weakening effects of the rib of the raceway on the contact force, which makes the proposed model more practical than the traditional model. Based on the proposed model, the contact characteristics of the bearing are analyzed. The results show that the misalignment angle and the radial load greatly influence the contact characteristics, and the rotational speed significantly changes the friction force.