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Mini Track Loader or Small Skid Steer?

MT52 - Mini track loader

Mini track loader

How do I choose between a Bobcat skid steer loader or a mini track loader? The smallest models in each product line are both 36 inches wide, allowing you to fit through a gate and they share attachments. Let's talk about the difference between these two loader types.

Tires vs. Tracks

While tires are less expensive, the tracked undercarriage of the Mini Track Loader gives it several advantages. The tracks distribute the loader's weight, reducing ground pressure to just 5.2 psi for the MT52 and 4.1 psi for the MT55. This minimizes damage to lawns and other surfaces — meaning that there is little need for costly and time-consuming worksite reclamation after a job is completed. They provide improved traction in loose or soft conditions, and of course, no tires means no flats!

Sit or Stand

MT52 - Mini track loader

Mini track loader

Would you rather sit or stand while you work? It sounds obvious, but take a minute to think about it. If you're operating a machine all day, it's nice to be sitting down. Or, consider how often you or your crew need to get off the machine to complete other tasks. If you frequently need to exit the machine, it's quicker to step off the mini loader platform than to climb out of the skid steer loader cab.

Other things to consider when looking at a Bobcat mini loader vs. a smaller size skid steer loader include:

  • Visibility - Although Bobcat skid steer loaders have excellent visibility from the cab to the work environment, keep in mind there's no cab on a mini loader.
  • Winter Use - At times, tough conditions just demand the comfort of an enclosed cab! For example, the enclosed cab and heat available on a skid steer loader is a definite advantage for a task such as snow removal.