Bobcat S250 vs John Deere 331G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S250 averages $22,154 CAD at auction, compared to $59,332 for the John Deere 331G. That's a $37,177 difference. Power-wise, the S250 offers 75 HP versus the 331G's 91 HP. The S250 has 2,500 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,000 lb for the 331G. Based on 246 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S250 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $37,177 less than the 331G. The 331G is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 16 HP or the higher 3,000 lb lifting capacity .
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 →John Deere 331G
CTL$59,332 CAD avg
$28,082
Low
$83,036
High
40
Sales
Avg 1,876 hours · 2016–2023 model years
Full price guide →How do S250 and 331G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 91 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,825 lbs | 11,205 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S250 and 331G?
- Price: The S250 is $37,177 cheaper on average (63% savings).
- Power: The 331G has 16 more horsepower (91 HP vs 75 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The 331G lifts 500 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Track Type: S250 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 331G is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S250s average 3,958 hours while 331Gs average 1,876 hours.
Both Bobcat and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S250 or 331G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S250 or 331G?
Choose the Bobcat S250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($37,177 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 331G if:
- You need more power (91 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,000 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S250 and 331G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | $71,173 (6) |
| 2021 | — | $55,128 (6) |
| 2020 | — | $55,331 (6) |
| 2019 | — | $69,698 (6) |
| 2017 | — | $53,008 (10) |
| 2016 | — | $58,502 (2) |
| 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 331G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S250 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $24,492 (6) | $55,662 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $31,829 (30) | $64,316 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,470 (40) | $63,395 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $24,423 (24) | $41,496 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,642 (88) | $48,576 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S250 or 331G in Canada?
More Comparisons
Related Guides
Get Pricing
Get a Price Quote on Bobcat S250
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.
Get a Price Quote on John Deere 331G
We'll send you current pricing and available units. No spam.