Both a Skid Steer and Compact Track Loader are compact in size, have a tight turning radius, and are efficient, proven job site machines due to their versatility, maneuverability, and ability to serve a multitude of tasks such as backfilling, digging, excavating, landscaping, trenching, and more.
Although remarkably similar in their capabilities, they do have different strengths and weaknesses. Depending on your needs, one might serve you better, so what do you consider when making the choice?
The location/ground type where you will be using the machine is generally the biggest factor in making the choice.
A Skid Steer is equipped with wheels making it lighter and easier to transport, often with lower costs and time needed to make the move. They are good on rock, hard ground, concrete, pavement, and asphalt.
A Skid Steer is often less expensive in terms of short-term costs due to the lower price tag, lower fuel, and transportation costs.
Job timelines may also play a factor. A tight job timeline may be better served with a Skid Steer as they are more lightweight, and the wheels allow for faster movement and quicker maneuvering than slower-tracked machines. However, if on uneven or soft ground the extra time and potential damage could be more costly than a track loader.
A Compact Track Loader has two sets of tracks on its undercarriage and offers a smoother driving experience (greater comfort for the operator) along with less disruption to the ground due to the even distribution of the weight of the machine. They are good on uneven terrain, sand, mud, softer ground, and snow or rain. Additionally, they have great stability due to the two tracks.
The tracks on a Compact Track Loader are a wear item and are more expensive than wheels but the long-term costs might be outweighed by the number of hours the track lasts vs. the wheels on a Skid Steer.
When making an equipment purchase speak with a United Ag & Turf or United Construction & Forestry compact equipment sales professional about your needs to be sure you are getting the best possible fit for your requirements and job site.
