Bobcat S850 vs John Deere 331G: Which Is the Better Value?
The Bobcat S850 averages $29,856 CAD at auction, compared to $59,332 for the John Deere 331G. That's a $29,475 difference. Power-wise, the S850 offers 100 HP versus the 331G's 91 HP. The S850 has 3,150 lb rated operating capacity vs 3,000 lb for the 331G. Based on 50 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Bobcat S850 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $29,475 less than the 331G. With similar specs, the price difference is hard to justify unless you have a strong brand preference.
Bobcat S850
SSL$29,856 CAD avg
$16,698
Low
$52,839
High
10
Sales
Avg 3,195 hours · 2011–2015 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 S850 and 331G specs compare?
| Spec | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 91 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,150 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 9,590 lbs | 11,205 lbs |
| Lift Type | vertical | vertical |
| Frame Size | large | large |
| High Flow | 1 gpm | 1 gpm |
What are the key differences between S850 and 331G?
- Price: The S850 is $29,475 cheaper on average (50% savings).
- Power: The S850 has 9 more horsepower (100 HP vs 91 HP).
- Track Type: S850 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 S850s average 3,195 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 S850 or 331G? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: S850 or 331G?
Choose the Bobcat S850 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($29,475 savings)
- You need more power (100 HP)
- You need higher lifting capacity (3,150 lbs)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Bobcat's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 331G if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do S850 and 331G prices compare by year?
| Year | Bobcat S850 | 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) |
| 2015 | $16,946 (2) | — |
| 2014 | $37,131 (4) | — |
| 2013 | $32,844 (2) | — |
| 2011 | $25,228 (2) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do S850 and 331G prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Bobcat S850 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | — | $55,662 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $52,225 (2) | $64,316 (18) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $29,036 (4) | $63,395 (8) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,037 (2) | $41,496 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $16,946 (2) | $48,576 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a S850 or 331G in Canada?
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