Bobcat S250 vs Bobcat S550: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $23,450 for the Bobcat S550. That's a $1,295 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the S550's 46 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,550 lb for the S550. Based on 230 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $1,295 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Bobcat S250
SSL$22,154 CAD avg
$416
Low
$57,314
High
206
Sales
Avg 3,958 hours · 2002–2011 model years
Full price guide →Bobcat S550
SSL$23,450 CAD avg
$1,931
Low
$47,816
High
24
Sales
Avg 2,354 hours · 2015–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and S550 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,550 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 5,670 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S250 and S550?
- Price: The S250 is $1,295 cheaper on average (6% savings).
- Power: The S250 has 29 more horsepower (75 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S250 lifts 950 lbs more (2,500 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S250s average 3,958 hours while S550s average 2,354 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or S550? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or S550?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($1,295 savings)
- You need more power (75 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (2,500 lbs)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and S550 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | $10,994 (3) |
| 2019 | — | $15,717 (4) |
| 2018 | — | $36,125 (4) |
| 2017 | — | $26,909 (4) |
| 2016 | — | $19,974 (5) |
| 2015 | — | $28,738 (4) |
| 2011 | $24,824 (4) | — |
| 2010 | $28,545 (6) | — |
| 2009 | $26,139 (8) | — |
| 2008 | $20,976 (30) | — |
| 2007 | $22,072 (26) | — |
| 2006 | $24,503 (34) | — |
| 2005 | $23,239 (16) | — |
| 2004 | $23,061 (26) | — |
| 2003 | $21,189 (24) | — |
| 2002 | $21,210 (24) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S250 and S550 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $47,225 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $20,665 (11) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $24,334 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | $18,083 (3) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,642 (88) | $20,394 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S250 or S550 in Canada?
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