When choosing the right machine for your farm or worksite, the decision often comes down to two main types: tracked skid steers and wheeled compact track loaders. Although they may seem like similar machines, each has its own advantages. Both are versatile, powerful machines that can tackle a wide variety of tasks.
At Koenig Equipment, you’ll find a selection of both skid steers and compact track loaders from trusted brands like John Deere, designed to help you get the job done efficiently and reliably. Understanding the differences between these two types can help you make the best choice for your farm or business.
Skid steers are compact, engine-powered machines with lift arms that can attach to a range of tools and attachments. They’re known for their maneuverability, making them ideal for jobs in tight spaces.
Wheeled skid steers are equipped with four rubber tires. They are best suited for hard, stable surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or compacted dirt. If your work is mostly on paved areas, barn floors, or other firm ground, a wheeled skid steer is likely your best option.
Wheeled models are known for their speed and agility. They can accelerate quickly and make sharp turns, which is especially useful when working in tight spaces or moving between different areas of a jobsite. Their ability to perform zero-radius turns makes them highly maneuverable, allowing you to get close to obstacles or work efficiently in confined areas.
Another advantage of wheeled skid steers is their lower maintenance costs. Tires are generally less expensive and easier to replace than tracks, and the machines themselves tend to require less upkeep. This makes them a cost-effective choice for many farm operations, especially if you don’t often deal with muddy or uneven ground.
However, wheeled skid steers can struggle in soft, muddy, or snowy conditions. The tires can sink or lose traction, making it difficult to operate effectively on these surfaces. If your farm is mostly flat and dry, this won’t be an issue, but it’s something to consider if you work in variable conditions.
Compact track loaders, sometimes informally called tracked skid steers, use continuous rubber or steel tracks instead of wheels. This design spreads the machine’s weight over a larger area, reducing ground pressure and allowing it to “float” over soft, muddy, or uneven terrain.
If your farm has areas with loose soil, sand, mud, or steep slopes, a compact track loader can be a game changer. The tracks provide superior traction and stability, making it possible to work in conditions where a wheeled machine would get stuck or risk tipping over. Tracked machines are also gentler on soft ground, leaving fewer ruts and minimizing soil compaction.
Compact track loaders do have some drawbacks. They tend to be slower than wheeled models, and their tracks can wear down more quickly, especially if used on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. Tracks are also more expensive to replace and require more frequent cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good working order.
The biggest factor in choosing between a tracked and wheeled machine is the terrain you’ll be working on most often.
Wheeled Skid Steers are best for hard, flat surfaces. They’re faster, more maneuverable, and less expensive to maintain. Ideal for barns, paved lots, and jobsites with firm ground.
Compact Track Loaders excel on soft, uneven, or sloped ground. They offer better traction and stability in mud, sand, or snow, but are slower and cost more to maintain.
If your work involves a lot of moving between different areas or you need to cover ground quickly, a wheeled skid steer might be a better fit. But if you’re regularly dealing with wet fields, construction sites, or hilly terrain, a tracked machine like a compact track loader will keep you productive year-round.
Maintenance is another important consideration. Wheeled skid steers generally require less maintenance, as tires are easier and cheaper to replace than tracks. Compact track loaders need more frequent inspections, cleaning, and track tension adjustments to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Tracks can last anywhere from 1,200 to 1,600 hours, depending on the conditions, while tires may need to be replaced more frequently if used on rough surfaces. Keeping up with regular maintenance will help maximize the lifespan of your equipment, regardless of which type you choose.
At Koenig Equipment, you’ll find a range of skid steers and compact track loaders to suit your needs. For example, the John Deere 320G is a popular wheeled skid steer known for its reliability, speed, and maneuverability—perfect for farms with mostly paved or compacted surfaces. If you need something for tougher terrain, the John Deere 317G compact track loader offers the traction and stability required for muddy fields or construction sites.
Both models are compatible with a wide variety of attachments, from buckets and forks to augers and sweepers, making them versatile tools for any farm operation. Koenig Equipment’s knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right skid steer or compact track loader attachments based on your specific needs and the conditions you face on your farm.
If you’re not sure which tracked or wheeled machine is right for you, visit Koenig Equipment or check out our website to see the latest models and talk to an expert. With the right machine, you’ll be equipped to handle whatever your farm throws your way—rain or shine, mud or pavement.
Whether you choose wheels or tracks, investing in a quality skid steer from Koenig Equipment will help you work smarter, not harder, every season.