Compact loaders are a staple on construction and landscaping sites, making appearances on nearly every jobsite. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Bobcat Company unveiled a newly streamlined lineup with two categories—Classic and Pro—designed to make it easier for contractors to choose the right machine. The Classic series focuses on dependable, entry-level, no-frills performance, while the Pro models introduce advanced features, including jobsite awareness systems and AI-powered tools, that boost productivity and operator confidence.
Two loader categories, different jobsite needs
Instead of organizing loaders by generation or series, Bobcat now groups them into two categories. The idea is straightforward: make it easier for contractors and fleet managers to match a machine to the type of work they do most often.
The Classic line focuses on proven machines with familiar controls and straightforward operation, and they’re a great entry into the compact loader market. These models target rental fleets, landscaping crews, and general construction work where reliability and ease of use matter more than advanced digital features.
The Pro line moves in a different direction. These machines bring upgraded technology, expanded control options, and operator-assistance systems to support high-productivity work on large or complex job sites.
Both categories include skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders, giving contractors flexibility depending on terrain, traction needs, and attachment compatibility.
Classic loaders focus on proven performance
Bobcat helped create the compact loader category nearly 70 years ago by introducing the first machine of its kind. The latest lineup builds on that history with updated controls, new software, and added jobsite awareness tools.
These loaders use familiar operating systems that many contractors already know. Selectable joystick controls remain available, along with traditional hand-and-foot control options. Machines also include features such as automatic ride control and two-speed travel, which help smooth operation during material transport or grading work.
A deluxe display provides basic machine information, while an optional rear-view camera improves visibility in tight areas.
Classic loader models
These machines are commonly used for jobs that require dependable performance without complex setup. Landscapers often rely on them for grading, soil movement, and hardscape preparation. Rental companies also favor this type of equipment because operators with varying experience levels can quickly learn the controls.
Pro loaders introduce advanced technology and higher performance
The Pro category represents Bobcat’s most advanced compact loaders to date. These machines include upgraded control software, redesigned electrical systems, and a cab environment aimed at long workdays.
Pro loaders include four drive modes that allow operators to adjust machine behavior based on the task at hand. These modes change acceleration, responsiveness, and handling characteristics.
The available drive modes include:
- Balanced: Smooth response suited for grading or precise material placement
- Agile: A general-purpose mode intended for daily operation
- Dynamic: Faster acceleration and response for productivity-focused tasks
- Charged: Maximum speed and responsiveness for experienced operators working in open areas
These options give operators more control over how the machine reacts to inputs. In practice, that means one loader can be tuned for both precision work and faster cycle times depending on the situation.
Inside the cab, Pro loaders introduce a redesigned operator environment with heated air-ride seats, additional storage, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. The display handles machine settings, camera views, and infotainment functions while giving operators easier access to performance controls.
Pro loader models
At the top of the lineup sit the T86-2 and S86-2, which deliver roughly 115 horsepower and lift heights reaching about 12 feet. Those capabilities make them well-suited for demanding work such as truck loading, heavy material handling, and large-scale site preparation.
Technology designed to improve productivity and safety
Beyond the machines themselves, Bobcat is introducing several technology packages designed to assist operators and improve jobsite awareness. One of the most talked-about additions is Jobsite Companion, an AI-based system that uses voice commands to control machine functions and automate attachment settings. Operators can access machine information and job data while keeping their hands on the controls. The system can manage more than 50 machine functions and includes a dashboard that tracks machine usage and operating costs relative to job estimates.
Megan Finch, Senior Manager Construction Product Marketing at Bobcat Company, shared some of the impressive ways Jobsite Companion can assist operators, including features like:
- Automated machine functions: 50 machine functions are now automated with the touch of a button. Using voice command, operators can ask their machine to “turn on lights” or “adjust bucket levelling” without having to do it manually.
- Automatic attachment optimization: Operators hook up an attachment, and the machine automatically optimizes the settings for them.
- Fully informed to answer questions: Workers can ask questions like, “How long can I run on my fuel right now?” or “What does this code mean?”, and the machine will respond accordingly.
- Job-costing dashboard: Operators can input a job description and the estimate they provided to their customer, and Jobsite Companion will track their machine utilization, attachment costs, fuel costs, and hours. Operators can then compare that to their original estimate.
Bobcat is also rolling out a group of jobsite awareness tools that rely on cameras and radar systems.
These include:
- Bobcat View camera systems that provide rear or expanded visibility
- Rear object detection and avoidance that alerts operators or slows the machine if obstacles appear behind it
- A 360° detection system that warns operators when workers move near the machine
Compact equipment often operates in crowded work areas. Visibility improvements and detection systems help reduce the risk of collisions or near misses when workers are nearby.
Applications across construction, landscaping, and material handling
The separation between Classic and Pro loaders allows contractors to choose equipment based on the type of work they perform most often.
Classic models are often chosen for:
- Landscaping and grounds maintenance
- Rental fleets
- Residential construction
- Light material handling
Their simplicity and familiar controls make them a good fit for crews that rotate operators between machines or for equipment that needs to remain easy to learn.
Pro loaders, on the other hand, are better suited for:
- Large construction projects
- Heavy earthmoving work
- Material handling on busy jobsites
- Contractors running advanced attachments
The added drive modes and performance upgrades allow operators to tailor machine behavior to different tasks. That flexibility can reduce cycle times when loading trucks or moving large volumes of material.
For contractors running multiple attachments—such as trenchers, cold planers, or grading tools—the additional machine control options can make it easier to adapt the loader to different applications throughout the day.
Another reason for the new loader categories is workforce trends. A large portion of experienced equipment operators are approaching retirement age, prompting many companies to bring in newer workers into the field. As Finch explained, Bobcat designed these machines with that shift in mind, anticipating the industry’s labor needs in 5 years. Simplified controls, improved displays, and automated features are intended to help less-experienced operators become productive more quickly. At the same time, experienced operators still have access to higher-performance drive modes and advanced machine control when needed.
What contractors can expect next
The newly introduced loaders are scheduled to reach select North American dealerships beginning in summer 2026. For contractors who attended CONEXPO 2026, the machines are among the show’s larger equipment announcements. Compact loaders remain one of the most widely used machines on construction sites, and updates in this category tend to have ripple effects across multiple industries. From landscaping crews to large construction contractors, compact loaders often serve as the first machine on site and the last one to leave.
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