When it comes to compact construction equipment, one of the most common points of confusion is the difference between a Bobcat and a skid steer. Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are not quite the same thing. A Bobcat is actually a brand name, while a skid steer is a type of machine. Understanding the distinction is important whether you are a contractor, a homeowner tackling a major landscaping project, or someone shopping at a local Bobcat dealer. In this article, we will break down the differences, explore the similarities, and explain how to decide which is right for your specific needs.
What is a Skid Steer?
A skid steer is a type of compact, rigid-frame machine with lift arms that can attach to a variety of tools and accessories. It is called a skid steer because it turns by skidding or dragging its wheels across the ground. Instead of pivoting like a car or using articulated steering like some loaders, the wheels on one side of a skid steer turn faster than the wheels on the other side, which allows the machine to spin in place. This gives the skid steer exceptional maneuverability and makes it ideal for working in tight spaces such as residential yards, barns, or urban construction sites. Skid steers are highly versatile machines that can handle everything from grading and digging to lifting, hauling, and snow removal, depending on which attachments are being used. They can come in both wheeled and tracked versions, with tracked models often referred to as compact track loaders.
What is a Bobcat?
Bobcat is a brand name owned by the Bobcat Company, which is one of the leading manufacturers of skid steers. In fact, Bobcat was one of the pioneers in the development of the skid steer loader back in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Because Bobcat became so popular and synonymous with skid steers, many people began to refer to all skid steers as Bobcats, even if they were manufactured by different companies. This is similar to how people use brand names like Kleenex or Band-Aid to describe products made by other brands. A Bobcat skid steer is still a skid steer, but not all skid steers are Bobcats. There are several other manufacturers, such as Caterpillar, John Deere, Case, and New Holland, that also produce skid steers. That said, Bobcat remains one of the most recognized and trusted names in the industry, and visiting a Bobcat dealer is often the first step for anyone considering purchasing or renting a machine.
Key Differences Between Bobcat and Skid Steer
The most important distinction is that skid steer refers to the machine itself, while Bobcat refers to one specific brand of that machine. A skid steer could be made by many different manufacturers, while a Bobcat is always made by the Bobcat Company. Another difference is in the design and features that Bobcat has developed over the years. For example, Bobcat is known for innovation in quick-attach systems that allow operators to swap attachments quickly and safely. Many Bobcat models also feature advanced cab designs, better visibility, and operator comfort compared to some competitors. Furthermore, Bobcat offers a wide network of dealers who provide parts, service, and support, which is a significant advantage for owners. When you buy from a Bobcat dealer, you are also gaining access to maintenance programs, warranties, and expert technicians who specialize in the brand.
Similarities Between Bobcat and Other Skid Steers
Since a Bobcat is technically a skid steer, it shares the same basic characteristics as machines from other brands. Both Bobcat skid steers and competing models have lift arms, use hydraulic systems for attachments, and are built for tasks like digging, lifting, grading, and moving materials. Most manufacturers offer similar attachment compatibility, which means that buckets, augers, trenchers, and pallet forks can often be used across different brands with the right couplers. Performance specs such as engine power, rated operating capacity, and hydraulic flow are also comparable across many skid steer brands, although each company offers unique variations to appeal to specific customer needs.
Why Bobcat Became Synonymous with Skid Steer
The reason many people think of a skid steer as a Bobcat is because of the company’s long history and reputation. The original skid steer loader was developed by brothers Cyril and Louis Keller in Minnesota in 1957, and Bobcat quickly became a leader in the compact equipment market. Over the decades, Bobcat invested heavily in research, product development, and marketing, making their name almost interchangeable with the machine itself. By consistently offering reliable equipment and expanding its dealer network, Bobcat secured its place as the go-to brand for many contractors and property owners. This brand dominance is why you will often hear people say they need to rent a Bobcat when what they actually mean is a skid steer.
How to Decide Between a Bobcat and Another Skid Steer
If you are deciding between a Bobcat skid steer and a competitor model, your choice will likely come down to factors such as price, dealer support, and specific machine features. Bobcat is known for durability and innovation, but other manufacturers may offer competitive advantages in certain areas. For example, Caterpillar machines are praised for their comfortable cabs, while John Deere equipment is often chosen for its integration with other Deere machinery. One of the biggest considerations is the availability of parts and service. Working with a Bobcat dealer ensures you have direct access to OEM parts, factory-trained service technicians, and specialized knowledge of your machine. If you plan on relying heavily on your skid steer for daily use, having a nearby Bobcat dealer can make a huge difference in minimizing downtime and keeping your projects on schedule.
Attachments and Versatility
One of the main reasons people invest in a skid steer, whether Bobcat or another brand, is the machine’s versatility. With the right attachment, a skid steer can replace multiple pieces of equipment. Bobcat has developed an extensive line of attachments, including augers, sweepers, trenchers, grapples, and snow blowers. Other manufacturers also offer attachments, but Bobcat’s attachment lineup is one of the broadest in the industry. When you purchase from a Bobcat dealer, you can also ensure compatibility and receive expert advice on which attachments best fit your projects. This makes a Bobcat skid steer a highly adaptable investment.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a skid steer can vary significantly depending on size, horsepower, features, and brand. Bobcat machines often sit at a competitive price point compared to other major brands, though they may not always be the cheapest option. However, many customers see the value in paying slightly more for the quality, innovation, and dealer support that come with the Bobcat name. Skid steers in general can range from around $25,000 for smaller models to well over $60,000 for larger, high-capacity machines. Used equipment is another option, and Bobcat dealers often have certified pre-owned inventory with warranty coverage for added peace of mind.
Dealer Support and Service
One of the most overlooked aspects of buying heavy equipment is the importance of dealer support. Even the best skid steer will eventually need service, maintenance, or repairs. Having a trusted Bobcat dealer nearby can be a game-changer. Bobcat dealers provide regular maintenance programs, factory-trained technicians, genuine Bobcat parts, and responsive service to keep your machine running at peak performance. This level of support can be the deciding factor for many buyers when choosing between Bobcat and another brand.
Final Thoughts
So, what is the difference between a Bobcat and a skid steer? A skid steer is the type of machine, while Bobcat is a specific brand that manufactures skid steers. The confusion arises because Bobcat has been such a dominant player in the market for decades that its name became synonymous with the machine itself. While other manufacturers also make skid steers with similar capabilities, Bobcat stands out for its history of innovation, wide attachment lineup, and exceptional dealer support. If you are in the market for a skid steer, visiting your local Bobcat dealer is an excellent first step. They can help you compare models, explore attachments, and provide the service and expertise you need to make the most of your investment.
