Skid steers are versatile and compact construction machines equipped with lift arms and a variety of attachments, making them essential for tasks such as digging, grading, and material handling. Several manufacturers, including Bobcat, Caterpillar, and John Deere, produce high-quality skid steers, each with unique features catering to different needs in the construction and agriculture industries.
Top skid steer brands
Choosing the right skid steer can significantly impact your project’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The best skid steers are known for their power, performance, reliability, and operator comfort. Here’s a look at some of the top manufacturers and what makes their skid steers stand out.
Hyundai
Hyundai’s HS120V skid steer loader is powered by a Tier 4 Final Hyundai HTI4 turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 70 net horsepower and a rated operating capacity of 2,690 pounds. The HS120V features a vertical lift path for improved stability, an auto self-leveling system for better load retention, and a multifunction joystick for reduced operator fatigue. It also offers a spacious cabin with excellent visibility and air conditioning, showing Hyundai’s focus on operator comfort.
Hyundai construction machines are known for their durability and are designed to be rugged and reliable for longer up time, reduced operating cost, and improved productivity. An excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize the work time of their machines.
Kioti
The Kioti SL750 skid steer loader is built with reliability and performance in mind. Equipped with a 74 horsepower engine, the SL750 offers a rated operating capacity of 2,689 pounds and exceptional lift heights of approximately 10.5 feet. The model includes features like standard two-speed travel for increased productivity, pilot hydraulic joystick controls for smooth operation, and a spacious cab with a sliding overhead door for easy entry and exit.
In addition to performance, the SL750’s standard LED work lights enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Its design prioritizes operator comfort with an ergonomic layout and optional enclosed cab with HVAC, providing added comfort and reduced fatigue during long work days.
Bobcat
When you think of skid steers, you think of Bobcat. The name is synonymous with skid steers, and for good reason—they are the best-selling skid steer manufacturer in the world. Credited with creating the world’s first skid steer more than 60 years ago, they now sell eleven different variations of skid steers.
Models like the Bobcat S770 feature powerful engines, advanced hydraulic systems, and various attachments, making them suitable for construction, landscaping, and agriculture. The S770, for instance, offers a rated operating capacity of 3,350 pounds and is equipped with a 92-horsepower engine, providing exceptional lifting capabilities and robust performance.
Smaller models like the S70 Narrow Width and S450 offer versatility for smaller jobs and more maneuverability around tight spaces. So whether you’re looking for a skid steer to work in the backyard or on a major construction site, Bobcat has you covered.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated Operating Capacity | Operating Weight |
| S70 | 23.5 hp | 760 lb | 2892 lb |
| S450 | 49.8 hp | 1,330 lb | 5,027 lb |
| S510 | 55 hp | 1,790 lb | 6,213 lb |
| S590 | 66 hp | 2,100 lb | 6,676 lb |
| S62 | 68 hp | 2,150 lb | 7,893 lb |
| S64 | 68 hp | 2,300 lb | 7,961 lb |
| S66 | 74 hp | 2,450 lb | 8,087 lb |
| S76 | 74 hp | 2,900 lb | 8,615 lb |
| S740 | 74.3 hp | 3,100 lb | 9,515 lb |
| S770 | 92 hp | 3,350 lb | 9,870 lb |
| S850 | 100 hp | 3,950 lb | 10,237 lb |
John Deere
John Deere, a prominent name in the construction and agricultural equipment industries, offers a robust lineup of skid steer loaders designed for power, efficiency, and versatility. But what sets them apart from the rest is their power. The 332G model features a 100-horsepower engine and a rated operating capacity of 3,600 pounds, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated operating capacity | Operating weight |
| 316GR | 61 hp | 1,750 lb | 6,180 lb |
| 318G | 65 hp | 1,945 lb | 6,542 lb |
| 320G | 69 hp | 2,190 lb | 6,749 lb |
| 324G | 74 hp | 2,690 lb | 8,327 lb |
| 330G | 84 hp | 3,000 lb | 9,900 lb |
| 332G | 100 hp | 3,600 lb | 10,264 lb |
Their models range from 61 to 118 horsepower, with operating weights spanning 6,180 to 10,264 pounds. They also offer over 100 available attachments. These include augers, trenchers, brooms, cutters, mulchers, and hammers, catering to various tasks from construction to agriculture.
The machines are built to ensure durability, ease of use, and maintenance, supported by an extensive dealer and service network. It’s the type of lineup we’d expect from such a heavyweight player in the industry.
Caterpillar
Caterpillar, a leading name in the construction equipment industry, launched its first skid steer loaders in 1999. Today, the CAT D3 Series skid steer loaders are celebrated for their advanced features and robust performance. The D3 Series includes models with both radial and vertical lift designs, offering horsepower ranging from 67 to 110.
Notable features include a hydraulically driven demand fan for optimal cooling, high-flow auxiliary hydraulics for enhanced tool performance, and a spacious, comfortable operator cab with excellent visibility and advanced control systems. The largest model, the 272D3 XE, provides up to 40 gallons per minute of hydraulic flow, making it ideal for demanding applications such as cold planing and heavy-duty brush cutting.
These machines are designed to be user-friendly while offering some of the best productivity features on the market.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated operating capacity | Operating weight |
| 226D3 | 67.1 hp | 1,550 lb | 5,849 lb |
| 232D3 | 67.1 hp | 1,850 lb | 6,559 lb |
| 236D3 | 72.9 hp | 1,800 lb | 6,559 lb |
| 242D3 | 72.9 hp | 2,150 lb | 7,123 lb |
| 246D3 | 72.9 hp | 2,150 lb | 7,703 lb |
| 262D3 | 74.3 hp | 2,700 lb | 8,011 lb |
| 272D3 | 98.8 hp | 3,200 lb | 8,768 lb |
| 272D3 XE | 98.8 hp | 3,700 lb | 9,573 lb |
JCB
JCB is renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality construction equipment, making it a leading name in the industry. Their skid steers are distinguished by the single-arm Powerboom™ design, offering excellent visibility, safety, and enhanced machine strength.
Models like the JCB 270, with a 74-horsepower engine and a rated operating capacity of 2,723 pounds, deliver powerful performance and efficiency. JCB’s impressive horsepower-to-operating capacity ratio allows their machines to accomplish more work per fuel tank and lift heavy weights quickly, outperforming many competitors.
Each model, from the compact radial lift to the robust vertical lift, combines strength, durability, and safety, ensuring high performance for any task. If you need a versatile and capable skid steer, JCB offers reliable options that stand out in the market.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated operating capacity | Operating weight |
| 215 | 74 hp | 2,112 lb | 7,001 lb |
| 270 | 74 hp | 2,723 lb | 8,423 lb |
| 300 | 74 hp | 3,186 lb | 9,330 lb |
| 3TS-8W | 74 hp | 3,695 lb | 12,615 lb |
Kubota
As a reputable Japanese brand, Kubota has gained significant traction in the skid steer market, becoming one of the most popular choices. Kubota’s SSV Series skid steers, including models like the SSV65 and SSV75, exemplify the company’s dedication to performance and versatility. The SSV65 features a 64-horsepower engine and a rated operating capacity of 1,950 pounds, while the SSV75 offers a 74-horsepower engine and a rated operating capacity of 2,690 pounds.
Both models include innovative features such as a slide-up front door for easy access in tight spaces, a spacious and pressurized cabin for operator comfort, and standard two-speed travel. These skid steers are designed for durability and ease of maintenance, with easily accessible service points and a large fuel tank for extended operation. As long as you can find a model that fits the operating capacity you need, you can’t go wrong with a Kubota.
Wacker Neuson
Wacker Neuson is known for manufacturing durable and versatile skid steer loaders designed to handle tough applications. Their models are built with a focus on comfortable operation, high performance, and best-in-class service accessibility.
Wacker Neuson’s skid steers feature a high-visibility cab that is easy to enter and exit, making them user-friendly and efficient. Models like the SW32, the most powerful in their lineup, are equipped with a standard two-speed transmission and a 5.7″ multifunction display for in-cab control customizations, enhancing productivity on job sites. These machines are designed for easy maintenance with features such as a forward-tilting cab and a spacious engine bay, reducing downtime and ensuring long-term reliability.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated operating capacity | Operating weight |
| SW21 | 74 hp | 2,100 lb | 6,510 lb |
| SW24 | 74 hp | 2,200 lb | 7,067 lb |
| SW32 | 100 hp | 3,200 lb | 8,860 lb |
Gehl
In 1973, Gehl introduced its first skid steer loader, which quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design and ease of use. The company’s focus on continuous improvement and customer feedback has led to the development of a wide range of skid steers, including both radial- and vertical-lift models.
Gehl skid steers are celebrated for their durability, user-friendly controls, and versatility. The company’s commitment to quality is evident in features like the T-Bar hands-on control system, Powerview lift arm, and adjustable operator restraint bar. Gehl’s strong heritage in agriculture and construction equipment, combined with innovative technology, makes their skid steers a reliable choice.
| Model | Horsepower | Rated operating capacity | Operating weight |
| R105 | 33.3 hp | 1,050 lb | 5,020 lb |
| R135 | 46.3 hp | 1,350 lb | 5,665 lb |
| R165 | 69.3 hp | 1,650 lb | 6,570 lb |
| R190 | 69.3 hp | 1,900 lb | 7,775 lb |
| R220 | 70.7 hp | 2,200 lb | 8,065 lb |
| R260 | 70.7 hp | 2,600 lb | 8,470 lb |
| V210 | 70.7 hp | 2,100 lb | 6,881 lb |
| V230 | 70.7 hp | 2,300 lb | 7,920 lb |
| V275 | 72 hp | 2,750 lb | 8,690 lb |
| V330 | 72 hp | 3,300 lb | 9,890 lb |
ASV
Founded in 1983 by Edgar Hetteen and Gary Lemke, ASV started with the innovative Track Truck and expanded to skid steer loaders in 2008. In 2020, they launched the MAX-Series, known for premium features. ASV machines are designed for exceptional productivity with faster speeds, higher ground clearance, reduced ground pressure, and superior traction.
ASV skid steers, like the RS-75 and VS-75, are renowned for their high performance and durability. The RS-75 boasts a 74.2 horsepower engine with a 2,600-pound capacity, while the VS-75 offers similar power with added vertical lift. Both models feature advanced hydraulics for precision, spacious cabs, ergonomic controls, and high visibility. ASV’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction ensures their skid steers are reliable, efficient, and built to last.
How to choose the best skid steer for your job
When choosing a skid steer, consider all necessary factors to find the perfect fit for your needs. Different brands offer unique advantages, and what suits one business might not be ideal for another.
It’s essential to weigh what matters most to your specific operations and preferences. By understanding each brand’s strengths, you can make an informed decision that optimizes your project’s efficiency and success.
