🏆 Best Skid Steer Brands Compared: Bobcat vs. Cat vs. Kubota
ProSkid Machines | Honest Breakdown from the Ground Up
If you’re in the market for a skid steer, chances are you’ve come across Bobcat, Caterpillar (Cat), and Kubota — three industry giants known for building rugged, reliable machines. But which one is really the best for your worksite, budget, and long-term use?
At ProSkid Machines, we’ve worked with all three — here’s our no-fluff, side-by-side comparison to help you make the smartest investment.
🔍 Brand Overview
🦡 Bobcat
- Founded: 1947
- Known For: Inventing the modern skid steer
- Strength: Industry legacy + attachment versatility
- Made In: USA
🐱 Caterpillar (Cat)
- Founded: 1925
- Known For: Global construction equipment powerhouse
- Strength: Premium power, operator comfort, strong resale
- Made In: USA & international
🟧 Kubota
- Founded: 1890 (Japan)
- Known For: Compact tractors and utility equipment
- Strength: Reliability, affordability, ease of use
- Made In: Japan, USA
⚙️ Key Feature Comparison
| Feature | Bobcat | Cat | Kubota |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lift Types Available | Radial & Vertical | Radial & Vertical | Vertical only |
| Horsepower Range | 50–100+ HP | 65–110+ HP | 60–74 HP |
| Cab Comfort | Solid, functional | Premium, high-tech | Basic but improving |
| Attachment Compatibility | Very high (Bob-Tach system) | High (Cat Smart Attach) | High (with SSQA system) |
| Ease of Maintenance | Simple, tool-friendly | Dealer-dependent | Very user-friendly |
| Track/Tire Options | Yes (wide selection) | Yes (with heavy-duty options) | Limited but growing |
| Price Point | Mid-range | High-end | Budget to mid-range |
| Resale Value | Strong | Very strong | Moderate |
🛠️ Which One Should You Choose?
💼 Choose Bobcat if:
- You want legacy reliability and max attachment versatility
- You’re a contractor, landscaper, or rental yard manager
- You prefer simple, affordable maintenance
🏗 Choose Cat if:
- You work in heavy-duty construction or commercial sites
- You want the most comfortable and advanced cab
- You don’t mind paying more for premium performance
🚜 Choose Kubota if:
- You need a budget-friendly, dependable machine
- You work in agriculture, landscaping, or small builds
- You value ease of use and low maintenance costs
🛒 Still Undecided?
No worries — at ProSkid Machines, we stock all three brands and more. Contact us and we’ll help match you with the best machine based on your budget, job type, and experience level.
