Bobcat S550 vs Takeuchi TL12: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S550 averages $23,450 CAD at auction, compared to $35,736 for the Takeuchi TL12. That's a $12,286 difference. Power-wise, the S550 offers 46 HP versus the TL12's 111 HP. The S550 has 1,550 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,560 lb for the TL12. Based on 96 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S550 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $12,286 less than the TL12. The TL12 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 65 HP or the higher 3,560 lb lifting capacity .
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 →Takeuchi TL12
SSL$35,736 CAD avg
$467
Low
$77,418
High
72
Sales
Avg 3,141 hours · 2012–2016 model years
Full price guide →How do S550 and TL12 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 111 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 3,560 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,670 lbs | 12,632 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | small | large |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S550 and TL12?
- Price: The S550 is $12,286 cheaper on average (34% savings).
- Power: The TL12 has 65 more horsepower (111 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The TL12 lifts 2010 lbs more (3,560 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S550 uses vertical lift while TL12 uses radial lift.
- Usage: Used S550s average 2,354 hours while TL12s average 3,141 hours.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S550 or TL12? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S550 or TL12?
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($12,286 savings)
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL12 if:
- You need more power (111 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,560 lbs)
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S550 and TL12 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $10,994 (3) | — |
| 2019 | $15,717 (4) | — |
| 2018 | $36,125 (4) | — |
| 2017 | $26,909 (4) | — |
| 2016 | $19,974 (5) | $37,026 (20) |
| 2015 | $28,738 (4) | $36,787 (14) |
| 2014 | — | $34,467 (16) |
| 2013 | — | $43,162 (16) |
| 2012 | — | $36,473 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S550 and TL12 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL12 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $47,225 (2) | $42,666 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $20,665 (11) | $49,775 (6) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $24,334 (6) | $41,346 (26) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,083 (3) | $34,568 (8) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $20,394 (2) | $27,354 (16) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S550 or TL12 in Canada?
Bobcat S550
2015 Bobcat S550
N/A hrs · Pembroke
$30,000 CAD
2018 Bobcat S550
547 hrs · Kingston
$28,800 CAD
2019 Bobcat S550
1,333 hrs · North York
$28,800 CAD
2018 Bobcat S550
2,300 hrs · Surrey
$32,000 CAD
Takeuchi TL12
No active listings right now.
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