Compact track loaders are strong little machines that make hard work easier. Whether you’re digging on a building site, leveling land, or doing farm work, their tracks help them move on tricky ground like mud, sand, or slopes without sinking. That’s why builders, landscapers, and farmers like them.
If you want to buy, brands like Cat, Bobcat, Kubota, Case, and John Deere have models, or you can just rent one. We’ll also talk a bit about how they’re different from skid steers and give tips to find one close to you. Like a car engine that runs smooth without transmission problems, these loaders keep power flowing so your work doesn’t stop.
What Are Compact Track Loaders and What Is Their Use?
Compact track loaders, or CTLs, are quite small but tough machines with rubber tracks that give excellent grip and balance. Popular models come from Cat, Bobcat, and John Deere, made to last and work efficiently.
Compared to wheeled skid steers, CTLs spread their weight better, lowering ground pressure to about 4–5 psi, which is great for soft soil or turf. They’re handy for short-term rentals or buying for long-term use. If you’re looking for a compact track loader for sale nearby, sites like Equipment Trader list lots of options, from new Kubota units to used Case machines.
Top Brands and Models: Cat, Bobcat, Kubota, Case, John Deere
If you looking for compact track loader, the brand matters a lot for how long it last and what features it got. Here’s quick look at popular choices in 2025 based on what people like.
Cat Compact Track Loader: Caterpillar machines, like the 259D3, weigh about 8,987 lbs, has 74 hp engine, and can lift around 2,900 lbs. Tracks got steel inside so they stay strong and can handle rough ground without problem. They use steel-reinforced tracks that last long and handle rough terrain reliably. The new 255 Next Gen (9,578 lbs, 74 hp, 2,499-lb ROC) boosts torque by 13% and cab space. Great for construction with new ones costing $60,000-$75,000. Users praise the Smart Creep mode for attachments.
Bobcat Compact Track Loader: Bobcat’s R-Series such as the T770 (10,300 lbs, 92 hp, 3,475-lb ROC), offers 11-ft lift height for truck loading. The T66 (under 10,000 lbs, 74 hp) is versatile for landscaping. With 10+ models, prices range $70,000-$85,000 new. Known for its innovation like the all-electric T7X.
Kubota Compact Track Loader: Kubota’s SVL series, like the SVL97-2 (11,273 lbs, 96 hp, 3,150-lb ROC), features vertical lift to 131 inches and quiet cabs. The new SVL50x (48.5 inches wide, 49.6 hp) fits tight spaces. Affordable at $80,000 new, with strong torque for farms.
Case Compact Track Loader: Case’s B-Series, including the TV620B (10,610 lbs, 90 hp, 6,200-lb ROC), delivers high breakout force (12,907 lbs). The TR270B (8,270 lbs, 74 hp) is easy to transport. Prices $70,000-$90,000; ideal for heavy hauling with 8-inch LCD displays.
John Deere Compact Track Loader: John Deere’s G-Series, like the 333G (10,033 lbs, 100 hp, 3,300-lb ROC), includes SmartGrade for precise grading. The 325G (7,434 lbs, 65 hp, 1,530-lb ROC) suits mid-sized jobs. New models $75,000+; praised for anti-vibration undercarriages.
For a compact track loader for sale near me, check IronPlanet or Equipment Trader, used Bobcat compact track loader T66s go for $40,000. In 2025, electric models like the Bobcat T7X are quite trending for eco-jobs.
Renting a Compact Track Loader: When and Why
A compact track loader rental is smart for short jobs or testing brands. Rentals from Herc or United start at $200/day for small models, $400+ for large like Cat 299D3. For example, Bobcat T770 rentals suit landscaping; John Deere 333G for grading. Sites like BigRentz list options near you. Rent if your project is under a month, buy for ongoing work to save long-term, like maintaining parts of transmission system for reliability.
Common Questions About Compact Track Loaders (CTLs)
What is a compact track loader in brief?
A compact track loader, or CTL, is a small but strong machine that runs on rubber tracks instead of wheels. This gives it good grip and stability, letting it work on soft, uneven, or slippery ground without sinking.
How is a CTL different from a skid steer?
Skid steers usually have wheels, but CTLs have tracks that spread the weight of the machine. This lowers pressure on the ground and gives better traction on soft soil or turf. That’s why they are great for landscaping, farming, and construction on tricky surfaces.
Which CTL brands are popular in 2025?
Top names are Cat, Bobcat, Kubota, Case, and John Deere. They all have different models for jobs like construction, landscaping, and farming. Some electric CTLs, like the Bobcat T7X, are also becoming popular for environmentally friendly work.
What jobs are CTLs best suited for?
They excel at earthmoving, digging, grading, leveling, loading trucks, landscaping, and farm work. Their tracks allow operation on mud, sand, slopes, or turf without causing damage.
Are electric compact track loaders worth considering?
Yes, models like the Bobcat T7X provide eco-friendly operation, quieter cabs, and lower emissions.
