Caterpillar 279D3 vs Takeuchi TL250: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 279D3 averages $47,719 CAD at auction, compared to $29,740 for the Takeuchi TL250. That's a $17,979 difference. Based on 51 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Takeuchi TL250 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $17,979 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 →Takeuchi TL250
CTL$29,740 CAD avg
$7,809
Low
$57,683
High
40
Sales
Avg 4,561 hours · 2009–2012 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 279D3 and TL250?
- Price: The TL250 is $17,979 cheaper on average (38% savings).
- Track Type: 279D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while TL250 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 TL250s average 4,561 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Takeuchi retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 279D3 or TL250? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 279D3 or TL250?
Choose the Caterpillar 279D3 if:
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Takeuchi TL250 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($17,979 savings)
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Takeuchi's dealer network and parts availability
How do 279D3 and TL250 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 279D3 | Takeuchi TL250 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $55,199 (1) | — |
| 2021 | $29,979 (2) | — |
| 2020 | $47,814 (2) | — |
| 2019 | $52,354 (6) | — |
| 2012 | — | $31,899 (18) |
| 2011 | — | $30,798 (16) |
| 2010 | — | $18,571 (4) |
| 2009 | — | $24,175 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 279D3 and TL250 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 279D3 | Takeuchi TL250 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $64,431 (2) | — |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $46,316 (4) | $39,255 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | — | $35,938 (6) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $38,897 (4) | $35,148 (4) |
| 4,000+ hrs | — | $26,013 (26) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 279D3 or TL250 in Canada?
Caterpillar 279D3
2022 Caterpillar 279D3
3,562 hrs · Dartmouth
$55,600 CAD
None Caterpillar 279D3
N/A hrs · Komoka
$105,000 CAD
Takeuchi TL250
No active listings right now.
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