CAT and John Deere are two of the biggest names in heavy equipment. They both make strong, reliable machines that help you move dirt, haul loads, and get tough jobs done. CAT and John Deere build a wide range of equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, skid steers, and wheel loaders. Whether you’re buying your first piece of equipment or adding to an existing fleet, choosing the right brand can save you money and help your crew work more efficiently. In this article, we’re going to put CAT vs John Deere head to head for their heavy machine features, price, and overall value to help you decide which one fits your needs best.
CAT in a nutshell
Caterpillar, also known as CAT, was founded in 1925 when two companies merged to create the Caterpillar Tractor Company. It was formed through a merger between Holt Manufacturing and the C.L. Best Tractor Company. Today, it’s one of the biggest names in heavy equipment around the world.
CAT moved its headquarters from Deerfield, Illinois, to Irving, Texas, in 2022. This change was part of a larger shift in how the company operates and where its leadership is based.
The company is best known for manufacturing powerful machines, including excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, and mining trucks. These machines are often used on big construction and mining sites. CAT also has one of the strongest dealer networks in the industry. It offers global support, rental equipment, and fast access to parts and service, which helps keep job sites running without long delays.
John Deere in a nutshell
John Deere got its start in 1837 when a blacksmith named John Deere invented a steel plow that would not clog in sticky prairie soil. He began making those plows in Illinois, and that was the beginning of what would become Deere & Company, a major name in farming equipment.
The company is still headquartered in Moline, Illinois. Its main offices are located on a large campus called the John Deere World Headquarters, situated in Moline.
John Deere is best known for tractors, combines, and other farming tools; that is their bread and butter. But they also make tough construction equipment like excavators and backhoes.
The brand is especially popular in North America and continues to expand its global presence. Deere & Company is now the world’s largest manufacturer of agricultural equipment.
John Deere has a reputation for making machines that are comfortable to operate and feature advanced technology. For example, their S700 combine line was honored for having improved operator comfort and advanced innovative features.
John Deere has recently updated its backhoe loaders with features such as a rear camera, a wider cab, improved climate control, and new controls to enhance comfort and usability.
CAT vs John Deere: How do their heavy machines compare?
CAT
- Product range includes backhoe loaders, bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, compact track loaders, articulated trucks, and wheel loaders.
- Best sellers include the CAT 336 Excavator, CAT D6 Dozer, and CAT 262D3 Skid Steer.
- The CAT 336 is frequently cited as a favorite among builders for its digging strength, fuel efficiency, and quick cycle times.
- The D6 series is one of Caterpillar’s enduring and highly recognized bulldozer lines.
- The 262D3 skid steer is also a popular model known for its reach, lift capacity, and stability.
- Why they’re popular: reliability, power, resale value, and aftermarket support.
- CAT machines are frequently chosen for their heavy-duty build and long-lasting performance.
- They tend to retain substantial resale value, thanks to demand for used CAT equipment and support availability.
- The global dealer network ensures fast access to parts, service, and rentals, making upkeep easier and helping equipment stay working longer.
John Deere
- Product range includes dozers, backhoes, excavators, skid steers, loaders, and motor graders.
- Best sellers include the 333G Compact Track Loader, the 310L Backhoe, and the 850L Dozer.
- The 333G Compact Track Loader delivers about 100 horsepower, excellent lift and reach, and offers advanced grade-control technology, including SmartGrade™ 3D and laser slope systems.
- The 310L Backhoe is praised for its power, low-effort controls, responsive hydraulics, and productivity-boosting features like ride control and a PowerTech™ engine.
- The 850L Dozer is more powerful than its predecessor and built for tough jobs. It includes advanced controls and is available with flexible grade-control technology to help operators grade faster.
- Why they’re popular: smooth controls, tech‑savvy operator cab, excellent maneuverability.
- The 310L backhoe features ride control, economy mode, and a PowerShift transmission for easy operation.
- The 333G’s cab is roomy, ergonomically designed, and packed with grade-control technology.
- Compact machines like the 333G combine power with agility, making them ideal for tight workspaces.
Which brand gives more bang for your buck?
CAT
CAT machines usually have a larger upfront cost. Their powerful build, advanced features, and long-lasting reputation come with a higher price tag. However, many buyers consider this worthwhile because CAT equipment tends to retain its value over time. This strong resale value comes from CAT’s reputation for durability and high demand in the used market.
John Deere
On the other hand, John Deere gear is often more cost-effective upfront. It is more affordable to buy and cheaper to operate, especially when considering compact equipment like smaller loaders and backhoes.
If you care a lot about keeping costs low from the start, especially for smaller jobs or when owning your own machine, John Deere often wins out. But if you need hard-working machines that last a long time and hold their value, CAT can be the better choice when considering the long-term return on investment.
What extra features do they offer for their heavy equipment?
CAT
CAT offers a lot of smart technology to help operators and managers do more with less effort:
- Advanced display systems, such as Cat Grade, Payload, and VisionLink, provide you with jobsite data, productivity insights, and remote machine details all in one place.
- Operator Coaching shares real tips to help operators work better and keep machines longer.
- E‑Ticketing sends digital records of dump loads right to managers, saving time and paper.
- Telematics, via products like VisionLink, provides data on machine usage, location, fuel consumption, and idle time. It helps you monitor your entire fleet, regardless of your location.
John Deere
John Deere also puts a lot of thought into making machines smarter and more operator-friendly:
- SmartGrade technology offers both 2D and 3D grade control options. It helps operators beat the grade with boom and bucket adjustments for a smoother finish.
- Electrohydraulic (EH) joystick controls allow operators to choose how the machine responds, whether through ISO-pattern or foot control, and create a setup that is comfortable and familiar.
- Customizable operator settings include heated and ventilated seats, adjustable performance modes, sealed-switch modules, and big LCDs for easy control and visibility.
- Redesigned cabs are made with clear glass, tight seals, climate control, and ergonomic seats to reduce noise, dust, and fatigue.
CAT vs John Deere: Which heavy equipment brand should you buy from?
Choosing between CAT and John Deere really depends on what you need your machines to do and how you plan to use them.
Choose CAT if your focus is on durability, high power, and maximizing value over a long period. CAT machines are built to withstand tough conditions and are ideal for large-scale construction projects, mining, and other demanding applications. Their strong resale value and wide support network also make them a smart pick for large fleets.
Consider John Deere if you’re looking for a machine that offers excellent performance at an affordable price. Their compact equipment is especially good for smaller to midsize operations. Many operators also prefer the comfort and advanced tech inside Deere cabs.
In the end, both brands have strengths. CAT leads the way in heavy-duty jobs and long-term investments, while John Deere excels in precision grading, smooth controls, and ease of use. The best choice depends on your business size, budget, and project needs.
If you’re new to the industry and wondering how to get started, check out our guides on construction equipment, gear, and informative how-tos:
- Heavy equipment anti-theft devices
- How to become a heavy equipment operator
- Carhartt vs Caterpillar workwear
- John Deere debuts 5 new large frame p-tier loaders with advanced cabin design
- The best of skid steers best picks from the top manufacturers
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