Comparing Compact Track Loaders and Skid Steer Loaders

When you’re preparing to add another piece of heavy machinery to your fleet, you want to assess all of your options to ensure you make the right decision. In the world of compact equipment, compact track loaders (CTLs) and skid steer loaders stand out as two highly effective and capable options — and both have similar features that can make them hard to differentiate.

That said, CTLs and skid steer loaders still have impressive specifications that set them apart from each other, and it’s helpful to know their main distinctions before selecting one.

The Basics of Compact Track Loaders

A CTL operates on two parallel sets of tracks, complete with an operator cab and an attachment to perform specific tasks. Each part of the equipment makes it ideal for certain scenarios, which is important to note when deciding whether a CTL fits your job best — especially considering CTLs are the smallest track loaders available.

This machine’s tracks create superior maneuverability and stability, allowing the operator to navigate rough, challenging terrain around the job site — based on the specific machine, a CTL can have high- or low-flow hydraulics capabilities. Additionally, a CTL’s smaller size makes it ideal for completing jobs in tight spaces and traveling through complex layouts.

In terms of versatility, one of the top advantages of a compact track loader is that it can feature an array of attachments. The most common attachment is a front-mounted bucket for transporting materials, but augers, trenchers and various other tools can turn a CTL into a one-size-fits-all machine. Depending on the work you typically complete, a CTL with a selection of attachments may be all you need to get the job done.

The Basics of Skid Steer Loaders

A skid steer loader is compact and wheel-based, featuring four wheels that move the machine by skidding along the ground, giving the equipment its name. The wheels remain straight and fixed, and both axles synchronize automatically. When the operator wants to turn the loader, they increase the speed on one side, causing the other side to drag and create a turn.

Like other types of loaders, skid steers are ideal for an array of jobs with the use of attachments, but they also offer some notable advantages. Because they feature wheels, skid steer loaders are beneficial for work on smooth surfaces like asphalt and concrete. Plus, skid steers have a high center of gravity, which allows them to handle heavy loads despite their light weight, though they typically have a 50% rated operating capacity.

Applications of Compact Track Loaders vs. Skid Steer Loaders

CTLs and skid steer loaders are suitable pieces of equipment for many of the same projects, but you can use them in slightly different ways depending on your environment. Below are comparisons of how you can operate either machine in common construction, landscaping, agriculture and maintenance projects.

Construction

When using different attachments, compact track loaders are ideal for completing various construction tasks. For example, a CTL fitted with a ripper or tiller can assist in preparing a project site by clearing debris. It’s also easier to excavate land and demolish objects with a CTL, especially in rocky or muddy spots.

A skid steer loader can complete many of the same tasks. However, they’re particularly beneficial for heavy-duty construction environments in urban areas. When you have to navigate pavement while carrying large loads of material through tight corners, a skid steer loader is a top pick due to its composition and ease of use.

Landscaping

From moving soil and mulching to clearing vegetation, a compact track loader can help you complete nearly any landscaping task. Whether you’re working on a small residential project or planting across an acres-large property, using a CTL gives you the versatility you need to level, grade and more. Specifically, CTLs are perfect for navigating all the different types of terrain you might encounter during a landscaping job.

If you’re planting at a commercial space or in a city park, a skid steer loader offers an effective setup for carrying materials across sidewalks and parking lots. This equipment also moves quickly, so operators can get from one end of a business lot to the other without wasting time.

Agriculture

While a CTL might not be the first machine that comes to mind when you think of agriculture equipment, they’re superior for many small tasks around the farm. Maybe you need an easier way to handle animal feed or want to quickly clean up fields and plots. In either case, a CTL could be the ideal choice — a bucket makes gathering feed more accessible, and a rake helps remove weeds and prepare soil.

In large spaces with flat surfaces, like barns and stables, using a skid steer loader with a bale attachment is a highly efficient way to move hay between stalls or remove it completely. Additionally, skid steers can be beneficial for construction tasks on farms, as farmers can use them to move heavy building materials when creating a new structure for animals or storage.

Maintenance

A compact track loader’s stability makes it an effective pick for maintaining sites with uneven terrain. For example, you might need to remove downed tree limbs and other debris after a storm when the surroundings are wet and muddy. CTLs with forestry mulchers and other land-clearing attachments can make that kind of maintenance simple.

When it comes to commercial site maintenance, a skid steer loader’s wheels offer the traction required to easily navigate smooth surfaces. For example, you can traverse icy parking lots to clear out snow with an array of winter attachments. Performing other types of maintenance, like pathway patching or paving, is also easier with a skid steer and the right add-ons.

How to Choose the Best Machine for Your Project

How do you decide on the most practical machine for your project when compact track loaders and skid steers can perform such similar tasks? It’s all about asking yourself the right questions. Consider the following points to help you narrow down your options:

• How versatile do you need the machine to be? The good news is you can configure both CTLs and skid steers with a vast range of attachments, so you can swap out add-ons as needed to complete different tasks. Note that many attachments are universal, but your options may be limited based on the equipment model you choose.
• What kind of environment do you work in? Every job site varies, and the machine you choose should be able to navigate the environment without issue. Generally, a CTL’s tracks make it the best option for sites with uneven, rough terrain. The machine’s lower center of gravity means it can handle slopes, too. A skid steer loader can navigate easily across even surfaces like cement, and you can maneuver it more easily in tight spots.
• What’s your maintenance budget? If you plan to purchase a CTL or skid steer, you’ll want to invest in continual maintenance to keep the equipment safe and operational. Compared to a skid steer, a compact track loader can require more costly maintenance because tracks are more expensive to repair and replace than tires. However, your specific maintenance costs will depend on where and how often you use the machine, so it’s best to connect with an expert for professional advice.
• Do you complete more light- or heavy-duty tasks? While your projects may look different from day to day, you may not encounter highly strenuous tasks often, or vice versa. For example, a residential landscaping company wouldn’t likely complete the same jobs as a construction company based in a dense city. CTLs are strong machines with plenty of horsepower, so they can perform well in tasks like dozing. While skid steer loaders can do similar heavy lifting, they may not be best for highly demanding work.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your business’s and team’s needs. By comparing different equipment models and assessing your project specifications, you can get one step closer to selecting the right machine. It also helps to work with a reputable machinery dealership that can offer guidance to match you with the precise loader you need.

Find the Compact Cat^® Equipment You Need at Mustang Cat

If you’re located in Southeast Texas, Mustang Cat^® can provide your business with a wide selection of industry-leading Cat equipment for sale or rent. With plenty of compact track and wheel loaders in stock, we have what you need to haul material, dig trenches, clear debris and much more. Additionally, our team can provide you with high-quality new and used parts to keep your machine operating as expected.

Simply find a location near you today or contact us to speak with a Mustang Cat representative to get started.