Best Skid Steer Brands Compared
Honest comparison based on auction data and market analysis
Bobcat dominates market share, but every major brand builds quality machines. Your best choice depends on dealer proximity, parts availability, and intended use. Brand loyalty matters less than finding a well-maintained unit.
Market Share (North America)
Brand-by-Brand Analysis
Bobcat
Strengths
- • Largest dealer/parts network
- • Most attachments designed for Bobcat
- • Widest model range
- • Strong resale value
Considerations
- • Higher initial cost (brand premium)
- • Some reliability concerns on newer Tier 4 engines
- • Parts expensive compared to some brands
Best for: Operators who value parts availability and resale value.
CAT (Caterpillar)
Strengths
- • Premium build quality
- • XHP (extra high pressure) hydraulics standard
- • Excellent dealer support network
- • Strong in cold weather
Considerations
- • Highest purchase price
- • Expensive dealer service rates
- • Smaller model selection
Best for: Commercial operators running high hours who need reliability.
John Deere
Strengths
- • Best visibility (sloped hood design)
- • Strong agricultural dealer network
- • Good resale in rural areas
- • Reliable Yanmar engines
Considerations
- • Urban dealer coverage limited
- • Historically weaker vertical lift design
- • Less aftermarket attachment compatibility
Best for: Agricultural operations and rural users with JD dealer nearby.
Kubota
Strengths
- • Excellent resale value retention
- • Reliable diesel engines
- • Fuel efficient
- • Good dealer network in ag areas
Considerations
- • Smaller model range
- • Limited large-frame options
- • Parts can be expensive
Best for: Buyers prioritizing resale value and fuel efficiency.
New Holland / CASE
Strengths
- • Competitive pricing
- • Same parent company (CNH) — shared parts
- • Good dealer presence in farm country
- • Super Boom vertical lift design
Considerations
- • Lower resale than tier-1 brands
- • Limited urban dealer coverage
- • Smaller market share
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers in areas with CNH dealers.
Resale Value Comparison
| Brand | 5-Year Retention | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kubota | 55-65% | Best retention |
| Bobcat | 50-60% | Strong demand |
| CAT | 50-58% | Higher starting price |
| John Deere | 48-55% | Strong rural markets |
| New Holland/CASE | 40-50% | Lower initial cost |
The Bottom Line
Every major brand builds reliable machines. Your decision should be based on:
- Dealer proximity: How far to nearest service center?
- Parts availability: Can you get parts same-day locally?
- Existing equipment: Match your current fleet for parts sharing
- Budget: Lower-tier brands offer good value at lower cost
- Resale plans: If resale matters, stick to Kubota, Bobcat, or CAT
Compare Actual Prices by Brand
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