Mini Track Loader or Small Skid-Steer?
How should you compare Bobcat® skid-steer loaders and mini track loaders? The smallest models in each product line are 36 inches wide, which allows you to fit through a gate. They also share attachments. Let's compare the two loader types.
Tires or Tracks
Mini track loader
While tires are less expensive, the tracked undercarriage of mini track loaders offers several advantages. The tracks distribute the loader's weight, reducing ground pressure to just 5.2 psi for the MT52 mini track loader and 4.1 psi for the MT55.
The weight distribution minimizes damage to lawns and other surfaces, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming worksite repairs after a job is completed. Mini track loaders provide improved traction in loose or soft conditions – and, of course, no flat tires.
Sit or Stand
Mini track loader
When you operate a machine all day, it's more comfortable to sit down. At the same time, consider how often you or your operators get off the machine to complete other tasks. If you frequently need to exit the machine, it's quicker to step off the mini track loader platform than to climb out of a skid-steer loader cab.
Other factors to consider when comparing a Bobcat mini track loader with a smaller-size skid-steer loader:
- Visibility: Although Bobcat skid-steer loaders have excellent all-around visibility, there's no cab on a mini track loader.
- Winter use: At times, tough conditions 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 snow removal.

S70
S100
S130
S150
S160
S510 M-Series
S175
S550 M-Series
S185
S530 M-Series
S570 M-Series
S205
S590 M-Series
S630 M-Series
S650 M-Series
S750 M-Series
A770 All-Wheel Steer
S770 M-Series
S850 M-Series
T110
T180
T190
T550 M-Series
T590 M-Series
T630 M-Series
T650 M-Series
T750 M-Series
T770 M-Series
T870 M-Series
MT52
MT55
418
324
E26 M-Series
E32 M-Series
E35 M-Series
E42 M-Series
E45 M-Series
E50 M-Series
E55 M-Series
E60 M-Series
E80 M-Series
V417
Loader
Excavator
Telehandler
Utility Vehicle
Toolcat™
Compact Tractor
CT122
CT225
CT230
CT235
CT335
CT440
CT445
CT450
3450 4x4
3400XL 4x4
3400 4x4
3200 4x2
5600
5610