Caterpillar 279D3 vs Caterpillar 287B: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D3 averages $47,719 CAD at auction, compared to $27,750 for the Caterpillar 287B. That's a $19,969 difference. Based on 45 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 287B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $19,969 less than the 279D3.
Caterpillar 279D3
SSL$47,719 CAD avg
$28,841
Low
$66,033
High
11
Sales
Avg 1,925 hours · 2019–2022 model years
Full price guide →Caterpillar 287B
CTL$27,750 CAD avg
$13,358
Low
$51,476
High
34
Sales
Avg 3,014 hours · 2004–2007 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279D3 and 287B?
- Price: The 287B is $19,969 cheaper on average (42% savings).
- Track Type: 279D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 287B is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 279D3s average 1,925 hours while 287Bs average 3,014 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D3 or 287B? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D3 or 287B?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D3 if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 287B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($19,969 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D3 and 287B prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 287B |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $55,199 (1) | — |
| 2021 | $29,979 (2) | — |
| 2020 | $47,814 (2) | — |
| 2019 | $52,354 (6) | — |
| 2007 | — | $19,348 (8) |
| 2006 | — | $33,743 (12) |
| 2005 | — | $25,557 (12) |
| 2004 | — | $38,560 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D3 and 287B prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D3 | Caterpillar 287B |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $64,431 (2) | $37,198 (6) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $46,316 (4) | — |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $34,364 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,897 (4) | $32,614 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | — | $19,728 (8) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D3 or 287B in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D3
2022 Caterpillar 279D3
3,562 hrs · Dartmouth
$55,600 CAD
None Caterpillar 279D3
N/A hrs · Komoka
$105,000 CAD
Caterpillar 287B
No active listings right now.
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