Compact Tractor Comparisons

   / Compact Tractor Comparisons #1  

Denlow

New member
Joined
Aug 9, 2025
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1
Tractor
International
Beginning my search for a new compact tractor. I have little to know experience with tractors. I have a 6 foot shredder that I want to use my new tractor and will want a front end loader.
Thoughts on brand and size???
 
   / Compact Tractor Comparisons #2  
To run a 6 footer you probably want at least a 30 horsepower if not 40. Just my opinion there are the “big two” in compact tractors. Kubota and John Deere. The build good ones and have a strong dealer network and support. They also cost the most. There are lots of other makers also that build good tractors, lots of choices.
 
   / Compact Tractor Comparisons #3  
I agree that 30 pto hp is a good starting point for a 6' brush hog. There will be operators with less hp and lighter conditions running 6' mowers, or operators in tall / heavy brush running perhaps a little slower. Lots of options.
Not unlike snowblowing, there are conditions that will bring even a much larger tractor to its knees with a 6' mower.
 
   / Compact Tractor Comparisons #4  
Just my opinion...it really depends on how much you like to throw money around, how comfortable you are doing your own wrenching, and what sort of dealerships are within an hour or so of you.

John Deere and Kubota are both significantly higher priced that similarly equipped/capable tractors from LS, Kioti, TYM, or Mahindra. They are also more expensive than Massey, McCormick, New Holland, CaseIH, or Bobcat. (Note: most NH, CIH and Bobcat in that size are made by LS or Kioti. Rural King are also much less expensive than JD or Kubota (made by TYM, but supported by RK). Yanmar makes a great machine, but will approach JD and Kubota in price.

Every manufacturer makes good equipment. Specs will vary, but the significance depends on how you use your tractor. Every manufacturer also will have units that fail.

With a 6' rotary cutter, you are looking at likely a "2nd level" frame size with 25 to 30+ HP coming off of the PTO.

Think about what other tasks you will do with it? How many acres of land will you cut? How dense is the vegetation you are cutting?
 
   / Compact Tractor Comparisons #5  
Don't rule any brand in or out without visiting the dealer. Promotions come and go and may significantly change the price. Also, some dealers are more aggressive on discounts than others.
 

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