Compact Track Loader vs Skid Steer: Which Should You Buy?
A head-to-head comparison of CTLs and wheeled skid steers — covering performance, cost, maintenance, resale value, and the best use cases for each in 2026.
It's the question every compact equipment buyer faces: tracks or wheels? Compact track loaders (CTLs) now outsell wheeled skid steers nearly 3-to-1, but that doesn't mean a CTL is always the right choice. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.
The Quick Answer
Buy a CTL if you work on soft, wet, muddy, or finished surfaces — or if you need maximum pushing power. Buy a wheeled skid steer if you work primarily on hard, flat surfaces like concrete and asphalt, do a lot of road travel between sites, or want lower operating costs.
Performance Comparison
| Factor | CTL | Skid Steer | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traction | Excellent — tracks distribute weight | Good on hard surfaces only | CTL |
| Ground pressure | 3.5-5.0 PSI | 25-40+ PSI | CTL |
| Pushing power | Superior — full track contact | Limited by tire grip | CTL |
| Travel speed | 7-9 MPH | 10-12 MPH | Skid Steer |
| Turning on hard surfaces | Chews up asphalt/concrete | Clean, tight turns | Skid Steer |
| Ride quality | Smoother, better suspension | Harsher, more bouncing | CTL |
| Grading precision | Good, very stable platform | Good on hard surfaces | CTL (slight edge) |
| Snow removal | Best in heavy/deep snow | Best for plowing on pavement | Depends on conditions |
Cost Comparison
This is where things get interesting. CTLs cost more to buy and operate — but they also hold value better. Here's the full picture:
Purchase Price (New — Similar Size Class)
| Brand | CTL | Skid Steer | CTL Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat (T770 vs S770) | $72,000-$82,000 | $58,000-$66,000 | +$14,000-$16,000 |
| Cat (299D3 vs 272D3) | $78,000-$88,000 | $62,000-$70,000 | +$16,000-$18,000 |
| John Deere (333G vs 332G) | $70,000-$80,000 | $56,000-$64,000 | +$14,000-$16,000 |
CTLs typically cost 20-28% more than their wheeled counterparts in the same size class.
Annual Maintenance Costs
| Item | CTL | Skid Steer |
|---|---|---|
| Track/Tire replacement | $3,000-$6,000 every 1,500-2,500 hrs | $2,000-$4,000 every 1,500-2,500 hrs |
| Sprockets/Idlers/Rollers | $2,000-$4,000 every 3,000-4,000 hrs | N/A |
| Fuel consumption | 10-15% higher (more drag) | Lower (less rolling resistance) |
| Routine service | Similar | Similar |
| Estimated annual cost | $4,000-$7,000 | $2,500-$4,500 |
Over 5 years, a CTL will cost roughly $8,000-$15,000 more in total operating costs vs a comparable skid steer. That's a significant number — but it's often offset by the CTL's ability to work in conditions where a wheeled machine simply can't.
Resale Value Comparison
CTLs hold value better in both absolute dollars and as a percentage:
| Age | CTL (% of New Price Retained) | Skid Steer (% of New Price Retained) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 years | 72-78% | 68-74% |
| 5 years | 52-60% | 46-54% |
| 8 years | 35-42% | 28-36% |
This means the actual cost of ownership (purchase price minus resale value) is closer than the sticker price suggests. A CTL that costs $15,000 more to buy may only cost $8,000-$10,000 more over a 5-year ownership cycle after factoring in the higher resale.
Best Use Cases for Each
Buy a CTL if you:
- Work in soft, wet, or muddy conditions regularly
- Do site prep, grading, or earthmoving as a primary task
- Need to work on finished lawns or sensitive surfaces without leaving ruts
- Need maximum pushing/digging power for your size class
- Operate in snow and ice during winter
- Use forestry attachments (mulchers, masticators) that need maximum traction
Buy a Skid Steer if you:
- Work primarily on concrete, asphalt, or hard-packed surfaces
- Drive between job sites on public roads frequently
- Do a lot of pallet handling, loading, or warehouse work
- Want lower upfront cost and operating expenses
- Need to turn in very tight spaces without damaging the surface
- Are in landscaping and work mostly on established properties with hardscaping
The Market Trend
The industry is clearly moving toward CTLs. In 2015, the split was roughly 60/40 in favor of CTLs. Today it's closer to 75/25. Manufacturers are investing more in CTL development, and many contractors are standardizing on tracks for their fleets.
That said, wheeled skid steers aren't going away. For the right application — especially material handling on hard surfaces — they're still the better tool. And because the market has shifted so heavily toward CTLs, used wheeled skid steers can be excellent values.
Check Values for Both
Whichever direction you're leaning, start by checking the fair market value for the specific models you're considering. EquipBook's free valuation tool covers all major CTL and skid steer models — or compare two models side by side to see how they stack up on price, depreciation, and value retention.
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