Bobcat S86 vs John Deere 332G
Quick take: The John Deere 332G costs $4,000 less; the John Deere 332G has a higher rated operating capacity (3,600 vs 3,400 lbs); the Bobcat S86 has more engine power (105 vs 100 hp).
| Spec | Bobcat S86 | John Deere 332G |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $82,000 | $78,000 |
| Rating | 4.7★ (460) | 4.5★ (360) |
| Type | Wheeled Skid Steer | Wheeled Skid Steer |
| Lift Path | Vertical Lift | Vertical Lift |
| ROC | 3400 lbs | 3600 lbs |
| Engine HP | 105 hp | 100 hp |
| Operating Weight | 9728 lbs | 10000 lbs |
| Tipping Load | 6800 lbs | 7200 lbs |
| Lift Height | 132 in | 133 in |
| Hydraulic Flow | 23 GPM | 25 GPM |
| Engine | Bobcat (Doosan) 3.4L | Yanmar |
| Tracks | No | No |
| Vertical lift | Yes | Yes |
| High-flow | Yes | Yes |
| Enclosed cab | Yes | Yes |
| Two-speed | Yes | Yes |
| Self-leveling | Yes | Yes |
| A/C & heat | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 yr / 2000 hr | 2 yr / 2000 hr |
Pros & cons
Bobcat S86
- ✓The S86 is one of the only machines offering standard-flow, high-flow (36.6 GPM), and super-flow (42 GPM) hydraulics, and owners running planers and mulchers say it powers attachments nothing else in its class can.
- ✓At 105 hp and 3,400 lb capacity it's the top of Bobcat's wheeled lineup, and heavy-duty contractors praise its raw production capability.
- ✓The vertical lift with 132-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, a real advantage for aggregate work.
- ✓The cab-forward visibility and refined, quiet cab carry over from the R-Series, and operators rate it top-tier for comfort and sightlines.
- ✓Bobcat's unmatched dealer network keeps parts, loaners, and service readily available, minimizing downtime on a machine this productive.
- ✓Resale value is exceptional — the S86 commands strong used money, softening the high purchase price over time.
- ✓The 5-link torsion suspension and strong breakout force make it capable across dirt work, loading, and heavy attachment tasks.
- ✓The super-flow option at 4,061 psi delivers class-leading hydraulic horsepower, which owners running the hungriest attachments specifically buy it for.
- ✗The S86 is expensive — its premium price and the cost of the super-flow package push it well into large-CTL territory.
- ✗Bobcat dealer parts and labor rates are among the highest in the industry, and owners feel locked into a costly ecosystem.
- ✗As a wheeled machine it lacks the flotation of a CTL, so it's less suited to soft or muddy ground where the T86 shines.
- ✗The proprietary Bob-Tach and controls can complicate running certain third-party attachments, nudging buyers toward Bobcat tools.
- ✗The DPF/emissions system on the 3.4L engine draws complaints during heavy idling and light-duty cycles.
- ✗At nearly 10,000 lb it needs a heavy truck and trailer, and the machine's size reduces versatility on tight sites.
- ✗Tires wear quickly under heavy loads on abrasive surfaces, and a full set of premium tires is a steep recurring cost.
- ✗Fully optioned with super-flow and premium cab features, the S86's price climbs fast, testing buyers' budgets.
John Deere 332G
- ✓At 100 hp and 3,600 lb capacity the 332G is Deere's biggest wheeled skid steer, and heavy operators praise its production capability for loading and pushing.
- ✓The high-flow option up to 41 GPM is generous, and owners running planers, mulchers, and snow blowers say it powers demanding attachments with ease.
- ✓The 133-inch lift height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, a real advantage for aggregate and material handling.
- ✓Deere's huge dealer and financing network makes parts, service, and support easy, especially for customers already running green equipment.
- ✓The side-by-side cooling package resists overheating and cleans out easily in dusty, debris-heavy conditions.
- ✓EH controls with selectable response help operators run a big, powerful machine precisely for both grading and heavy work.
- ✓The large frame and heavy weight give a planted, stable feel when handling heavy loads at full reach.
- ✓Deere skid steers hold resale value well, supported by brand loyalty and the popularity of the large-frame G-Series.
- ✗Deere parts and dealer labor are on the higher end, and owners note maintenance costs on a big machine accumulate over time.
- ✗The Yanmar's DPF emissions system can be finicky with regen during light-duty idling, interrupting production.
- ✗As a wheeled machine it lacks the flotation of a CTL, so it's less suited to soft or muddy ground than the 333G.
- ✗At 10,000 lb it needs a heavy truck and trailer, and its size reduces versatility on tight residential sites.
- ✗Some operators find the EH controls take a learning curve and feel less direct than pilot or mechanical setups.
- ✗New pricing reflects the Deere premium, and value shoppers note Case and New Holland large frames can undercut it.
- ✗The feature-rich cab and high-flow package push the price up quickly, so a well-equipped 332G gets expensive.
- ✗Tires wear quickly under heavy loads on abrasive surfaces, and a full premium set is a steep recurring cost.