Skid Steer Loader and Compact Wheel Loader both have their own advantages in agricultural activities, which one is more suitable depends on a number of factors, let’s discuss which one is more suitable for agricultural activities from the following aspects?

Appearance and Construction

Skid steer loaders: skid steer loaders usually feature a compact design and a skid steering system that enables them to operate flexibly in small spaces, such as in orchards, greenhouses, farms, and other places where space is limited.
Compact wheel loaders: small wheel loaders are relatively large in size and use traditional steering methods such as articulated steering or front wheel steering, which are usually inferior to skid steer loaders in terms of flexibility. Its larger steering radius makes it more difficult to operate in narrow spaces, and may require more space to complete manoeuvres such as steering and turning.

Performance and Capabilities

Skid steer loaders: skid steer loaders generally have a relatively low power of 20-50kW; the load capacity of skid steer loaders is relatively small, generally with a load capacity of about 1-2 tonnes
Compact wheel loaders: usually more powerful than skid steer loaders, generally around 30-60kW, can provide stronger power output, suitable for heavier material handling and excavation work. Compact wheel loaders have a higher capacity, with some compact loaders having a capacity of up to 2-3 tonnes.

Operations and Efficiency

Skid steer loaders: due to their flexible steering characteristics, they are more efficient in small, diverse jobs. However, due to their relatively low capacity and power, they are less efficient in large-scale material handling and excavation operations.
Compact wheel loaders: Compact wheel loaders have relatively high operational efficiency, especially in material handling and excavation, and can complete tasks quickly.

Applicable Scenarios

Skid steer loaders are suitable for narrow space operations in urban construction, landscape engineering, agriculture, warehouses and other fields, such as indoor decoration, tree transplantation, warehouse cargo handling and so on.
Compact wheel loaders are suitable for material loading and unloading, digging, levelling and other operations in construction sites, mines, harbours and other places.

Price and Maintenance Cost

Skid steer loaders: skid steer loaders have relatively high price, relatively complex structure and high maintenance cost. Professional technicians are needed for maintenance and repair.
Compact wheel loaders: compact loaders have relatively low prices, relatively simple structures and low maintenance costs. The price of its parts is relatively low, and it is easier to repair and maintain.

Compact Wheel Loaders vs. Skid Steer Loaders on the Farm. choose the right equipment according to your actual situation. For more information about the choice of skid steer loaders and compact wheel loaders, welcome to consult LGMA machinery manufacturers.