Best Skid Steer for Beginners
Choosing your first machine with confidence
Start with a mid-size machine from a major brand with local dealer support. Avoid the temptation to buy cheap — a reliable $30K machine beats an unreliable $15K headache. Rent first to learn what you need before buying.
Before You Buy: Rent First
Seriously consider renting for 3-6 months before purchasing:
- • Learn what size you actually need — most beginners buy too small
- • Try different brands — see what controls feel right
- • Discover your attachment needs — before committing to a machine
- • No maintenance surprises — while you learn operations
- • Rental costs: $250-$400/day or $1,500-$3,000/month
Best First Skid Steers
Bobcat S570/S590
Best OverallThe most popular first skid steer. Mid-size, forgiving to operate, excellent parts availability. Not too big, not too small. Perfect learning machine.
Capacity
2,190 lb
Why Good for Beginners
Forgiving size
New Price
$55K-$65K
Used Price
$25K-$45K
Kubota SSV65/SSV75
Best ValueExcellent reliability with lower cost than Bobcat. Great dealer support in rural areas. Holds value well if you decide to sell.
Capacity
2,100-2,700 lb
Why Good for Beginners
Reliable, simple
New Price
$50K-$60K
Used Price
$25K-$42K
John Deere 318G/320G
Best VisibilitySloped hood design provides best-in-class visibility — huge advantage for beginners. Excellent if you have a JD dealer nearby for service.
Capacity
2,100-2,700 lb
Why Good for Beginners
Great visibility
New Price
$52K-$62K
Used Price
$28K-$45K
What Beginners Should Prioritize
Must-Haves
- • Local dealer support — within 50 km if possible
- • Major brand — Bobcat, CAT, JD, Kubota
- • Enclosed cab — safety and comfort
- • Pilot controls — easier to learn than hand/foot
- • Mid-size frame — versatile for most jobs
Nice-to-Haves
- • Backup camera — safety aid
- • Two-speed — faster travel
- • High-flow hydraulics — future attachment options
- • AC — summer comfort
- • Self-leveling — easier bucket control
Common Beginner Mistakes
Buying Too Small
Small machines seem easier but limit what you can do. A mid-size machine is no harder to learn and handles 80% of jobs.
Buying Too Cheap
A $12K auction special often costs $12K more in repairs. Better to finance a reliable $30K machine than fix a $15K headache.
Ignoring Dealer Distance
That rare brand might be cheaper, but when it breaks, parts take weeks. Downtime costs more than the savings.
Skipping the Inspection
Always get a pre-purchase inspection ($300-$500). Hidden problems can cost thousands. No exceptions for auction buys.
Learning to Operate
Plan for a learning curve:
- • First 10 hours: Basic movement, bucket control, safety
- • 10-50 hours: Competent with simple tasks
- • 50-200 hours: Comfortable with most operations
- • 200+ hours: Proficient operator
Tip: Take a basic equipment operation course if available in your area. Many dealers offer free or low-cost training for new buyers.
Essential First Attachments
| Attachment | Priority | Used Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Purpose Bucket | Essential | $800-$1,500 |
| Pallet Forks | Essential | $600-$1,200 |
| Tooth Bucket | Recommended | $1,000-$1,800 |
Start with just a bucket and forks. Add attachments as you identify specific needs.
Research Before You Buy
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