Bobcat T76 vs John Deere 331G
Quick take: The John Deere 331G costs $2,000 less; the John Deere 331G has a higher rated operating capacity (3,100 vs 2,900 lbs); the John Deere 331G has more engine power (90 vs 74 hp).
| Spec | Bobcat T76 | John Deere 331G |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $78,000 | $76,000 |
| Rating | 4.7★ (700) | 4.5★ (340) |
| Type | Compact Track Loader | Compact Track Loader |
| Lift Path | Vertical Lift | Vertical Lift |
| ROC | 2900 lbs | 3100 lbs |
| Engine HP | 74 hp | 90 hp |
| Operating Weight | 10250 lbs | 11228 lbs |
| Tipping Load | 8228 lbs | 8857 lbs |
| Lift Height | 128 in | 128 in |
| Hydraulic Flow | 23.3 GPM | 23 GPM |
| Engine | Bobcat (Doosan) D24 | Yanmar |
| Tracks | Yes | Yes |
| 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 T76
- ✓The T76 is arguably the best-selling CTL in the country for a reason — operators praise its balanced blend of lift capacity, pushing power, and refinement in one machine.
- ✓Vertical lift with a 128-inch hinge-pin height makes truck-loading and pallet-stacking genuinely easy, a real advantage over radial-lift CTLs.
- ✓The cab-forward visibility and low door threshold are class-leading, and operators specifically call it out for grading and finish grading accuracy.
- ✓High-flow (30.3 GPM) and Super Flow options let it run planers, mulchers, and mixers that many CTLs can't handle, maximizing attachment versatility.
- ✓The 5-link torsion suspension undercarriage smooths out rough ground and reduces operator fatigue over long days better than rigid designs.
- ✓Bobcat's dealer network means parts, tracks, and loaner machines are almost always available quickly, keeping downtime low.
- ✓Resale value is exceptional — the T76 commands strong money used, which owners factor into a lower true cost of ownership.
- ✓Cycle times and hydraulic responsiveness are strong, and contractors say it keeps pace with machines a size class up on production work.
- ✗Undercarriage and track costs are significant — owners report expensive track sets and roller wear, especially when run on abrasive or hard surfaces.
- ✗Bobcat parts and dealer labor rates are among the highest in the industry, and owners feel the proprietary ecosystem keeps costs up.
- ✗The premium price is well above Kubota, Case, and New Holland equivalents, and buyers question whether the badge justifies the gap.
- ✗At 74 hp, heavy-duty operators sometimes wish for the 105 hp T86's extra muscle for demanding dirt and mulching work.
- ✗The DPF/regen system on the D24 draws complaints when the machine spends a lot of time idling or on light-duty tasks.
- ✗Fully-loaded with high-flow and premium cab options, the T76's price climbs fast into large-frame territory.
- ✗Tracks make it slower and less efficient on pavement, and owners note accelerated wear if it lives on concrete.
- ✗Mud and snow packing in the undercarriage is a recurring winter maintenance chore operators mention.
John Deere 331G
- ✓The 331G's 3,100 lb capacity and vertical lift make it a strong, versatile large-frame CTL that operators use for everything from grading to heavy loading.
- ✓The 90 hp Yanmar engine delivers solid power, and owners praise the G-Series drivetrain for reliability under sustained hard use.
- ✓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 operators face daily.
- ✓EH controls with selectable response let operators tune sensitivity for both precise grading and heavy production work.
- ✓The cab is roomy and comfortable with good visibility, and the pressurized option keeps dust out for all-day comfort.
- ✓The large frame and heavy operating weight give a planted, stable feel when handling heavy loads at full reach.
- ✓Deere CTLs hold resale value well, supported by strong brand loyalty and the popularity of the G-Series.
- ✗Deere parts and dealer labor are on the higher end, and owners note maintenance costs accumulate over the machine's life.
- ✗The Yanmar's DPF emissions system can be finicky with regen during light-duty idling, interrupting production.
- ✗At over 11,000 lb, the 331G requires a heavy truck and trailer to move, which smaller operators find limiting.
- ✗Standard hydraulic flow is adequate but demanding attachments really want the high-flow option, adding cost.
- ✗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-frame CTLs undercut it.
- ✗Undercarriage and track costs are significant on a machine this size, especially on abrasive surfaces.
- ✗The large frame is overkill for tight residential work, reducing versatility versus a medium-frame CTL.