A Complete Buyer’s Guide for Contractors, Landscapers, and Construction Pros

When planning your next project, choosing the right piece of equipment can significantly affect productivity, operating costs, and project timelines. Two of the most common options—skid steer loaders and compact track loaders (CTLs)—often leave buyers wondering which machine is the better fit.

What Is a Skid Steer Loader?

A skid steer loader is a compact, wheeled machine known for its agility, speed, and versatility.
It is widely used in:

• General construction

• Municipal work

• Road maintenance

• Landscaping

• Demolition

• Snow removal

Because of its tire-based design, a skid steer performs best on hard, flat surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, and compacted soil.

What Is a Compact Track Loader (CTL)?

A compact track loader shares similar functions with a skid steer but uses rubber tracks instead of tires.
This design gives CTLs:

• Superior flotation

• Better traction

• Lower ground pressure

Compact track loaders excel on soft, muddy, uneven, or sensitive terrain, often found in:

• Agriculture

• Forestry

• Soft soil construction

• Wetland restoration

• Landscaping

• Snow and muddy-weather operations

Skid Steer vs. CTL: Key Differences You Must Know

1. Terrain Adaptability

Skid Steer

• Best on firm, durable surfaces

• Tends to sink in mud or sand

• Faster travel speed on road-like surfaces

Compact Track Loader

• Best on mud, loose soil, snow, or uneven ground

• Operates with minimal ground disturbance

• Performs well in wet weather and winter conditions

Verdict:
If your jobsite varies or feels unpredictable—CTL wins.
If you're working on paved or hard-packed surfaces—Skid Steer wins.

2. Traction and Stability

Because of its track system, a CTL offers:

• Increased stability on slopes

• Higher traction in slippery environments

• Better lifting power in loose terrain

Skid steers maintain strong pushing power on hard surfaces but can slip in mud or snow.

3. Operating Cost & Maintenance

Skid Steer Costs

• Lower maintenance cost

• Tires are cheaper to replace

• More fuel-efficient on hard surfaces

Compact Track Loader Costs

• Higher undercarriage maintenance

• Rubber tracks are more expensive

• Slightly higher fuel consumption

Verdict:
For long-term ownership cost control, skid steers are more economical.
CTLs cost more to maintain but outperform in difficult terrain.

4. Purchase Price

• Skid Steers: Generally 15–30% cheaper

• CTLs: Higher upfront cost due to track system

For budget-sensitive contractors, skid steers offer strong value.

5. Versatility & Attachments

Both machines support hundreds of attachments:

• Buckets

• Pallet forks

• Augers

• Trenchers

• Grapples

• Mulchers

• Sweepers

• Snow blowers

However:

• CTLs perform better with ground-engaging attachments, thanks to greater traction.

• Skid steers are excellent with non-ground-engaging tasks on firm surfaces.

Which Machine Should You Choose?

Choose a Skid Steer Loader if:

• Your jobsite has solid ground

• You frequently travel on roads

• You need a more affordable machine

• You want faster maneuverability

• You prioritize lower maintenance cost

Choose a Compact Track Loader if:

• Your terrain is muddy, sandy, snowy, or unstable

• You need maximum traction and flotation

• You work on landscaping or agricultural projects

• You frequently lift heavy materials on soft ground

• You want year-round performance in all weather

Final Recommendation

Both machines can be excellent depending on your jobsite, climate, and budget.
If you need maximum versatility on soft or harsh terrain, a compact track loader is the clear winner.

If you need an affordable, fast, low-maintenance machine for construction and municipal work, a skid steer loader is ideal.

For many contractors, owning one of each offers the best balance—but for most projects, understanding your terrain and usage pattern is the key to choosing the right equipment.