Caterpillar 259D3 vs Caterpillar 306B: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 259D3 averages $56,219 CAD at auction, compared to $8,272 for the Caterpillar 306B. That's a $47,947 difference. Based on 76 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 306B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $47,947 less than the 259D3.
Caterpillar 259D3
CTL$56,219 CAD avg
$18,630
Low
$100,950
High
70
Sales
Avg 1,801 hours · 2019–2024 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 259D3 and 306B?
- Price: The 306B is $47,947 cheaper on average (85% savings).
- Track Type: 259D3 is a compact track loader (CTL) while 306B is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 259D3 or 306B? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 259D3 or 306B?
Choose the Caterpillar 259D3 if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 306B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($47,947 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 259D3 and 306B prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 306B |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $67,473 (2) | — |
| 2023 | $62,505 (17) | — |
| 2022 | $66,385 (5) | — |
| 2021 | $58,168 (16) | — |
| 2020 | $52,232 (22) | — |
| 2019 | $40,765 (8) | — |
| 2017 | — | $9,134 (2) |
| 2016 | — | $10,095 (2) |
| 2015 | — | $5,587 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 259D3 and 306B prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 259D3 | Caterpillar 306B |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $76,206 (19) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $58,349 (22) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $41,158 (15) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $41,303 (12) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $45,386 (2) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 259D3 or 306B in Canada?
Caterpillar 259D3
2021 Caterpillar 259D3
2,345 hrs · Ameliasburg
$56,700 CAD
2023 Caterpillar 259D3
2,026 hrs · Edmonton
$59,500 CAD
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,340 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
2020 Caterpillar 259D3
2,561 hrs · Oro-Medonte
$57,000 CAD
Caterpillar 306B
No active listings right now.
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