Bobcat S450 vs Bobcat T550: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S450 averages $27,371 CAD at auction, compared to $29,412 for the Bobcat T550. That's a $2,041 difference. Power-wise, the S450 offers 46 HP versus the T550's 61 HP. The S450 has 1,300 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,595 lb for the T550. Based on 58 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
Both machines are competitively priced with only a $2,041 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.
Bobcat S450
SSL$27,371 CAD avg
$15,938
Low
$46,423
High
15
Sales
Avg 1,463 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →Bobcat T550
CTL$29,412 CAD avg
$15,869
Low
$43,263
High
43
Sales
Avg 1,934 hours · 2013–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S450 and T550 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S450 | Bobcat T550 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 61 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,300 lbs | 1,595 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,215 lbs | 7,215 lbs |
| Lift Type | radial | vertical |
| Frame Size | small | small |
What are the key differences between S450 and T550?
- Price: The S450 is $2,041 cheaper on average (7% savings).
- Power: The T550 has 15 more horsepower (61 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The T550 lifts 295 lbs more (1,595 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S450 uses radial lift while T550 uses vertical lift.
- Track Type: S450 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while T550 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used S450s average 1,463 hours while T550s average 1,934 hours.
Both Bobcat and Bobcat retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S450 or T550? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S450 or T550?
Choose the Bobcat S450 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($2,041 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Bobcat T550 if:
- You need more power (61 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,595 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
How do S450 and T550 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S450 | Bobcat T550 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $41,814 (4) | $20,930 (9) |
| 2019 | $20,700 (1) | $15,869 (2) |
| 2018 | — | $27,779 (4) |
| 2017 | — | $33,258 (6) |
| 2016 | $21,800 (4) | $32,798 (8) |
| 2015 | $16,399 (2) | $35,516 (6) |
| 2014 | $25,651 (4) | $35,291 (6) |
| 2013 | — | $23,370 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S450 and T550 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S450 | Bobcat T550 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $45,602 (2) | $35,935 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $24,566 (13) | $27,579 (25) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $31,099 (14) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | — | $33,996 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S450 or T550 in Canada?
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