Bobcat S550 vs Takeuchi TL8: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S550 averages $23,450 CAD at auction, compared to $30,396 for the Takeuchi TL8. That's a $6,945 difference. Power-wise, the S550 offers 46 HP versus the TL8's 74 HP. The S550 has 1,550 lb rated operating capacity vs 1,900 lb for the TL8. Based on 71 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 $6,945 less than the TL8. The TL8 is worth the premium if you specifically need the extra 28 HP or the higher 1,900 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 TL8
CTL$30,396 CAD avg
$10,152
Low
$63,755
High
47
Sales
Avg 2,340 hours · 2014–2020 model years
Full price guide →How do S550 and TL8 specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 46 hp | 74 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 1,900 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 5,670 lbs | 8,532 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | radial |
| Frame Size | small | mid |
| High Flow | — | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S550 and TL8?
- Price: The S550 is $6,945 cheaper on average (23% savings).
- Power: The TL8 has 28 more horsepower (74 HP vs 46 HP).
- Lifting Capacity: The TL8 lifts 350 lbs more (1,900 lb ROC).
- Lift Type: S550 uses vertical lift while TL8 uses radial lift.
- Track Type: S550 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TL8 is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
Both Bobcat and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a S550 or TL8? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S550 or TL8?
Choose the Bobcat S550 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($6,945 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL8 if:
- You need more power (74 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (1,900 lbs)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do S550 and TL8 prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $10,994 (3) | $55,069 (2) |
| 2019 | $15,717 (4) | $25,587 (6) |
| 2018 | $36,125 (4) | $32,347 (9) |
| 2017 | $26,909 (4) | $26,248 (4) |
| 2016 | $19,974 (5) | $24,275 (4) |
| 2015 | $28,738 (4) | $31,728 (18) |
| 2014 | — | $26,342 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S550 and TL8 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S550 | Takeuchi TL8 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $47,225 (2) | $55,069 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $20,665 (11) | $33,418 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $24,334 (6) | $27,670 (20) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $18,083 (3) | $27,505 (2) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $20,394 (2) | $26,646 (4) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S550 or TL8 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 TL8
No active listings right now.
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