Caterpillar 268B vs John Deere 318E: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 268B averages $20,417 CAD at auction, compared to $31,600 for the John Deere 318E. That's a $11,182 difference. Based on 28 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 268B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $11,182 less than the 318E.
Caterpillar 268B
CTL$20,417 CAD avg
$11,385
Low
$32,807
High
18
Sales
Avg 5,399 hours · 2005–2007 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 318E
SSL$31,600 CAD avg
$22,770
Low
$45,679
High
10
Sales
Avg 880 hours · 2014–2015 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 268B and 318E?
- Price: The 268B is $11,182 cheaper on average (35% savings).
- Track Type: 268B is a compact track loader (CTL) while 318E is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 268Bs average 5,399 hours while 318Es average 880 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 268B or 318E? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 268B or 318E?
Choose the Caterpillar 268B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($11,182 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 318E if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 268B and 318E prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 268B | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | $34,846 (6) |
| 2014 | — | $26,732 (4) |
| 2007 | $23,982 (4) | — |
| 2006 | $20,728 (8) | — |
| 2005 | $17,627 (6) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 268B and 318E prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 268B | John Deere 318E |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $11,528 (2) | $32,867 (8) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | — | $26,534 (2) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $32,342 (2) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,161 (2) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,913 (10) | — |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
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