Skid Steer Buying Guides

When you're moving heavy loads, capacity matters. We ranked every skid steer and compact track loader we track by rated operating capacity, from nimble compacts to large-frame machines built to feed a crew. If you routinely handle pallets, boulders, or dense material, start at the top.

You don't need to spend big to get a skid steer that earns its keep for years. Every pick here costs $40,000 or less and is ranked by owner rating, so the highest-rated value champions come first.

When you're running demanding attachments or grading all day, horsepower matters. We ranked the skid steers with the most engine power so you can find the one with the muscle for the job. Owner rating breaks ties.

High-flow auxiliary hydraulics unlock the most demanding attachments — mulchers, cold planers, and stump grinders. Every pick here offers a high-flow hydraulic option, ranked by owner rating so the most capable machines lead.

Rubber tracks give you flotation and traction that wheels can't match on soft, muddy, or sloped ground. We pulled together every compact track loader we track and ranked them by owner rating so the most-loved machines come first.