Shopping for a compact tractor with a loader is an exciting step for property owners, hobby farmers, and landscapers. But with Kubota, Bobcat, and John Deere all offering product contenders, how do you select the machine that delivers the best value for your needs now and for years to come?
Our role is to help you make a confident, informed investment. We want to help you achieve lasting value and satisfaction. Let's dig in.
Jump ahead to a section
Bobcat: Immediate Savings, Basic Functionality
Kubota: Steady, for Budget Shoppers
John Deere: Premium Investment for Long-Term Benefit
Before diving into specs and pricing, we're always going to want to clarify your top priorities. What matters most to you? Not your neighbor or family, you. When choosing a compact tractor, understanding how you want to put it to work and what you expect out of it is really important.
Budget: Is initial price or total long-term cost more important?
Usage: Will your tractor work hard year-round or only occasionally?
Service Support: Is dealer proximity and warranty coverage critical for you?
Resale Value: Is it a “forever” machine? Maybe just a short-term machine?
Let’s break down how each brand serves different needs and why those price tags make sense.
Who It’s For: First-time buyers looking for the lowest upfront investment.
Price Range: $18,499–$20,612 (loader included)
Strengths: Bobcat delivers solid entry-level performance for daily property jobs, often coming in at less than the premium options.
Compromises: Fewer advanced features, a smaller dealer network, and lower resale value can mean higher long-term costs if you upgrade or need extensive service.
Best For: Those prioritizing budget and basic loader tasks, aware that some trade-offs in comfort and support are part of the deal.
Who It’s For: People seeking an option with a lower price
Price Range: $20,000–$24,000 (loader included)
Strengths: Kubota has an entry-level product and straightforward engineering which may be an option for those just starting out. Warranty coverage and moderate resale values are consistent.
Compromises: Technology and comfort trail John Deere; some owners report occasional challenges with parts availability.
Best For: Buyers who want a straightforward tractor without paying a premium (spoiler: even though they wish they would have later on).
Who It’s For: Those who see their tractor as a lasting, high-value asset.
Price Range: $21,990–$24,499 (loader included)
Strengths: John Deere stands out for advanced technology, superior comfort, and the most active dealer/service network in the industry (over 2,000 locations). Owners report consistently high satisfaction and lowest lifetime maintenance costs.
Compromises: Upfront price is often highest, though strong resale value (20–30% above competitors) and lower upkeep costs typically offset the difference over time.
Best For: Long-term thinkers who value reliability, comfort, technology, and support. Deere owners are the kind of owner who wants “buy it once, love it forever.”
John Deere earns its premium for ground-breaking technology, engineering, and owner experience; it’s an investment that pays off in proven reliability and trade-in value.
Kubota offers essential durability and simplicity, making it a “value” for many property owners.
Bobcat provides basic performance at entry-level pricing, giving new owners a way to get started affordably, but with the understanding that long-term costs may rise.
Every customer journey is unique, but our experience shows that John Deere compact tractors with loaders consistently deliver the highest satisfaction and best value over time. If you plan to use your tractor regularly, appreciate comfort and innovative features, and want strong dealer support for years to come, John Deere is our top recommendation.
But if your budget is tight, Kubota packages offer an excellent blend of performance and reliability, representing smart, practical value.
Bobcat remains the best choice for those needing immediate savings and basic loader functionality, provided you accept the potential downsides in support and resale.
We've been helping Customers find the right equipment for over 120 years. We’re committed to helping you test, compare, and select the compact tractor that truly fits your needs. Let’s help you invest in the equipment that supports your property and peace of mind for years to come (not just next weekend).
Let's kick off a great partnership.