Track Skid Steer vs wheel Skid Steer: which one should you invest in?

For contractors in North America and Europe, choosing the right type of skid steer loader can make or break project efficiency. The two main options are track skid steers and wheel skid steers. Both have unique advantages, but which one is right for your business?

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Track Skid Steers – Built for Stability

Track skid steers use rubber or steel tracks instead of wheels, making them perfect for soft, uneven, or muddy ground.

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Advantages:

Superior traction on mud, sand, or snow

Lower ground pressure, reducing soil damage

Higher stability on uneven surfaces

Best for: Forestry, landscaping, agriculture, and projects in challenging terrains

Wheel Skid Steers – Speed and Versatility

Wheel skid steers are more common on urban job sites and industrial yards.

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Advantages:

Faster travel speed on paved surfaces

Lower operating and maintenance costs

Better fuel efficiency

Best for: Warehousing, roadwork, port operations, and general construction

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Cost Considerations

Track skid steers are typically more expensive and have higher maintenance costs due to track wear. Wheel skid steers are cheaper to maintain but struggle in rough terrain.

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Which One Should You Choose?

Urban projects and logistics → Wheel skid steer (RS10)

Forestry, landscaping, muddy terrain → Track skid steer (RS06-2 or RS20 track version)

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Final Thoughts

Your investment should match your job site conditions. For contractors working across multiple terrains, owning both types or opting for a rental mix may be the smartest strategy.

👉 Rippa offers both wheel and track skid steer loaders (RS06-2, RS10, RS20) to meet every contractor’s needs.