Bobcat S300 vs Bobcat S550: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S300 averages $22,136 CAD at auction, compared to $23,450 for the Bobcat S550. That's a $1,313 difference. Power-wise, the S300 offers 81 HP versus the S550's 46 HP. The S300 has 3,000 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,550 lb for the S550. Based on 136 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $1,313 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Bobcat S300
SSL$22,136 CAD avg
$15
Low
$49,061
High
112
Sales
Avg 4,246 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 S300 and S550 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 81 hp | 46 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 1,550 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 8,448 lbs | 5,670 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | small |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | — |
What are the key differences between S300 and S550?
- Price: The S300 is $1,313 cheaper on average (6% savings).
- Power: The S300 has 35 more horsepower (81 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The S300 lifts 1450 lbs more (3,000 lb ROC).
- Usage: Used S300s average 4,246 hours while S550s average 2,354 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S300 or S550? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S300 or S550?
Choose the Bobcat S300 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($1,313 savings)
- You need more power (81 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,000 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 S300 and S550 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S300 | 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 | $17,640 (4) | — |
| 2010 | $23,648 (8) | — |
| 2009 | $17,730 (8) | — |
| 2008 | $28,758 (14) | — |
| 2007 | $26,192 (14) | — |
| 2006 | $18,890 (14) | — |
| 2005 | $25,551 (20) | — |
| 2004 | $19,556 (12) | — |
| 2003 | $26,828 (4) | — |
| 2002 | $18,157 (8) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S300 and S550 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S300 | Bobcat S550 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $47,225 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $38,045 (8) | $20,665 (11) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $27,931 (26) | $24,334 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $20,750 (14) | $18,083 (3) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,424 (54) | $20,394 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S300 or S550 in Canada?
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