Skid steers are one of the most commonly used types of heavy equipment. With the right attachments, it has multiple functions like digging, lifting, and drilling. What’s more, the skid steer has many size choices. As two popular skid steer brands, Kubota and Bobcat have their own design and characteristics. But Kubota vs. Bobcat skid steer: which is best for you? Let’s compare their performance in terms of power and operating comfort to find the brand that best meets the needs of your project.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Brand Overview
Before we explore the details, let’s get a quick look at the two brands. Based on years of service on demanding job sites, both have earned their reputations in the industry.
Kubota Skid Steers
Kubota is known for powerful and reliable engines. Entering the loader market, they focused on power, durability, and operating experience as usual. With years of engine technology accumulation, Kubota’s machines can reach high fuel efficiency and durability. Its hydraulic system operates very smoothly and is responsive. Lift, dump, or change attachments, all smooth. Even working long hours doesn’t feel strenuous. The design of the cockpit is user-friendly, making it comfortable to drive.
Bobcat Skid Steers
Bobcat was a pioneer in the skid steer industry, creating the first skid steer in the world. With this history, they are leading position in brand awareness and market share. Bobcat has many models for selection, which can almost meet the needs of various working conditions. Their exclusive Bob-Tach® quick installation system has become the standard in the industry. Whether it’s versatility or after-sales support, Bobcat has strong advantages.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Performance and Specs
Let’s get into the numbers. The performance specifications are where you can really see how these machines stack up for heavy-duty work. We’ll compare them on three critical points.
Engine Horsepower
While the horsepower parameters of the two machines were close, they used completely different engines. Kubota uses its own classic commercial diesel engine— this engine has always been known for being reliable and durable. In fact, the Bobcat used to use Kubota’s engine on its own machines until about 2015, when it switched to Doosan.
Kubota’s V3307-CR-TE4 engine has a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that reaches operating temperature faster and clears exhaust gases— meaning that after a cold start, it usually only takes 60 to 90 seconds to get into operation. And the Bobcat’s Doosan engine uses a diesel oxidation catalytic converter (DOC) system, which some operators have reported to be operating at a higher temperature and consuming a little more fuel during the regeneration cycle.
Operating Weight and Capacity
This is where the two brand ideas really diverge, and understanding this difference is key to choosing the right machine. Choosing the right machine depends not only on which machine can carry more weight, but also on how its product line is built to meet different customer needs.
The main advantage of the Bobcat lies in specialization. Whether you have very specific needs, whether it’s for extreme flexibility or sheer lifting capacity, there’s almost certainly a Bobcat model designed specifically for that purpose. In a small job, you can opt for the Bobcat S70, rated at about 760 pounds of workload. Its small size and light weight make it ideal for working in tight spaces, such as backyard gardening or construction environments through small doors. For heavy-duty operations, a larger variant, like the S86, with a rated working load of over 3,500 lbs, is selected for high-intensity tasks such as demolition, heavy-duty handling, and forestry operations.
Kubota took the opposite approach. Instead of trying to cover all possible market segments, they focused their engineering efforts at the heart of the market —serving most users, most popular, most versatile size classes. Its product line consists of two main core models: The Kubota SSV65 weighs 1,950 pounds and is suitable for general construction, farm work, and handling turf or small stone trays. The SSV75 can lift to 2,690 pounds and is more powerful, capable of handling heavier pallets, loading large trucks, or operating demanding hydraulic attachments.
Therefore, as a buyer, your decisions depend on your business model. Do you run a specialist business that requires machines of a specific size? If so, Bobcat is better for you. Or, do you need a machine of the most ordinary size? In this case, Kubota offers you an attractive option.
Hydraulic Systems Capabilities
In terms of hydraulic system performance, both brands of machines are powerful and can drive demanding attachments. Kubota’s hydraulic pilot control system is easy to use and very precise, with no extra adjustments needed. It’s a favorite among operators because it makes delicate tasks like leveling much easier and less tiring. With ergonomics, all buttons and switches are within reach and comfortable to operate.
The Bobcat’s hydraulics are also excellent, with advanced optional joystick controls like the advanced Selectable Joystick Controls(SJC) available. However, some operators felt that Kubota’s standard system was smoother, and the fine-tuning action was more natural.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Attachment Versatility
The performance of a loader largely depends on which attachments it can be paired with. Kubota and Bobcat are good at this. However, they have their own characteristics in terms of attachment compatibility and installation methods.
Kubota skid steers come with a seamless, universal quick-connect system. It easily fits a wide array of common attachments like buckets, pallet forks, and augers. This design is beneficial for changing tools faster and with less trouble. Wide compatibility is really practical for operators who often need to change different attachments, which greatly improves work efficiency.
Bobcat’s Bob-Tach® system, on the other hand, gives it one of the largest attachment options in the world, both original and third-party. As a result, almost all jobs can find the right tools. The only thing is, some accessories not made by Bobcat might need an adapter. If your project requires switching between various professional tools for different tasks, Bobcat is definitely the go-to.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Design and Maneuverability
The design of the machine directly affects its daily availability and visibility.
Kubota skid steers are known for their ingenious designs, which are capable of improving the operator’s field of vision. They feature a roll-up front door that opens or closes regardless of boom position and can be stowed above the head. The windows slide along the inner track to prevent dirt and debris from entering. The top grille features a thinner fence for improved visibility upwards when loading trucks.
Bobcats use traditional swing-out doors that can only be opened when the boom is lowered. Window tracks are mounted on the outside and are more likely to be clogged with dust. These are small details, but over a long working day, they add up to more.
Choosing between Kubota and Bobcat is not about finding which machine “isn’t good”, but how to match the machine’s advantages to your specific job.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Operator Comfort
Both brands have made considerable progress in cab comfort, but in very different ways.
Kubota’s cab design is operator-centric and ergonomic, with intuitive joysticks, clear vision, and well-positioned buttons. So, it is not easily tiring for long periods of operation. The goal is to create a single, high-quality cab experience that reduces fatigue during long hours.
Bobcat has a greater focus on customization, offering a variety of cab kits and control options. While the standard cab may not be as refined, the control mode and comfort features can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. It is a big advantage for some users.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Maintenance and Support
Maintenance and support, downtime directly affects efficiency and cost, so the ease of maintenance of the machine is very important.
The key maintenance points of the Kubota skid steer are designed to be very convenient: the rear door can be fully opened, making the engine, filter, and hydraulic fluid inspection all easy to operate. Many handles and components are bolted, and it is quick and economical to replace them when damaged. Moreover, Kubota parts are very easy to find and help reduce the cost of long-term use.
The Bobcat likewise provides easy access to repairs, but some design options, such as handles welded to the chassis, make repairs more complicated and expensive. However, Bobcat parts are very well supplied and can be obtained easily, both from dealers and aftermarket suppliers.
Kubota vs Bobcat Skid Steer Performance and Innovation
In terms of performance and innovation, both companies are among the best in the industry, but they have different concerns.
Kubota’s innovations focused on the integration of powertrain and hydraulic systems. They achieved excellent fuel efficiency and smooth operating performance through the overall design optimization of the engine and machine. Kubota focused on elevating the machine’s core functionality, allowing the machine to perform tasks stably and reliably, whether handling, loading, or fine operation. At the same time, this design also reduces operator fatigue and makes long working hours easier and more efficient.
Bobcat, for its part, places more emphasis on diverse innovations in technology and functionality. Equipped in the cab with an advanced display, precision joystick controls, and a wealth of optional control modes, they make operation more intelligent and intuitive. What’s more, Bobcat has the most comprehensive line of furniture products in the industry, and whether it’s for forestry operations, building construction, or agricultural applications, it can find matching furniture to adapt the machine to different task needs. Through the continuous introduction of new technologies and appliances, Bobcat continues to push the performance limits of skid steer loaders, providing more possibilities and flexibility for operators.
In general, Kubota focuses more on core performance and operational stability, while Bobcat has advantages in intelligence and multifunctional expansion. Which machine to choose, depending on whether you value reliable and efficient basic performance more, or flexibility due to versatility and technological innovation.
Price & Ownership Cost
In terms of price and cost of ownership, there was little difference between the purchase prices of similar Kubota and Bobcat models. What’s more important is the total cost of the machine during use, which is the total cost of ownership.
- fuel efficiency, Kubota’s engines have diesel particulate filters, which are generally more fuel efficient.
- Resale value: Both brands are well-maintained and are solid investments in the long term.
- Parts and repair: Maintenance costs are critical. No matter which brand you choose, you can easily buy parts at a reasonable price and with reliable quality, which helps to reduce the total cost throughout the entire life of the machine.
Best Uses and Applications
So, which machine is right for which job?
- Kubota skid steers often excel in applications that demand fuel efficiency and precise hydraulic control. This makes them a favorite for landscaping, agricultural work, and tasks requiring a delicate touch.
- Bobcat skid steers are a powerhouse for general construction, demolition, and companies that need a wide variety of specialized attachments. Their extensive model range means there is a Bobcat for almost any task imaginable.
In Conclusion
Whether you choose Kubota or Bobcat Slide Steer, your needs and preferences are the top consideration. Bobcat may be more appropriate if you value versatility and lifting capacity more. When it comes to being easy to maintain and cost-effective, Kubota is a better choice. Before making a decision, it’s a good idea to test drive this brand of machine yourself, thinking about the type of work that is performed daily. No matter which brand you choose, FridayParts offers you high-quality, reliable aftermarket parts, fully compatible with Bobcat and Kubota models, helping you to keep your equipment in top condition. Visit FridayParts today to equip your skid steer with reliable parts for more efficient and safer work.
