Small Tractor Comparison: Sub-Compact vs. Compact Utility

When you’re searching for a tractor to tackle all those projects around your small farm or acreage, there are a lot of considerations to make before committing to a purchase.

Whether upgrading from a garden tractor, replacing your old tractor, or buying your first small or mini tractor, read on to determine which tractor type is best for your needs and which models are the best value for your money.

Benefits of a sub-compact tractor

Sub-compact tractors are great for acreages and farms up to about five acres, sloped properties, or tight spaces. They are popular because of their affordability and versatility. Most people find them easy to operate for a novice tractor owner.  

Larger and more robust than a riding lawn mower, sub-compact tractors are the smallest type of tractor and usually have up to 25 HP diesel engines. These mini tractors often have a lineup of implements used to mow grass and thick brush, plow snow, tackle landscaping projects, assist with pet or livestock chores, and maintain trails.

Benefits of compact tractors

Compact tractors are larger and heavier than sub-compact tractors. They have between 25 HP and 40 HP diesel engines and a wider wheelbase. While more affordable than full-size tractors, they cost more on average than sub-compact tractors. Due to their size and weight, compact tractors can also handle heavier loads and more complex projects and are a little more stable. 

Compact tractors are best for small to mid-size acreages and small farms with more than three acres, loads up to 2,500 lbs. (depending on the make and model), and a variety of needs above and beyond mowing, managing snow, and hauling branches. 

Sub-compact vs. compact tractor comparison

Considerations when buying a sub-compact vs. compact tractor

Buying a tractor, regardless of size, is an investment and commitment to your small acreage or farm. Before purchasing a sub-compact or compact tractor, consider the following.

Tractor storage

Sub-compact tractors and their implements require less room to store. They often fit in a residential garage or garden shed. However, the more implements you buy, the tighter the space in your garage will be. 

Compact tractors may require a taller doorway due to their higher stance and bigger implements that can be attached, such as large backhoes.

Tractor implements

Sub-compact tractors tend to have fewer implement options and are also often smaller, e.g., 54” mowing decks vs. 72” mowing decks.

Compact tractors are equipped with a more advanced three-point hitch system, which offers several benefits. Some manufacturers have even introduced quick hitches, making it easier to switch between implements. This system, combined with the higher PTO horsepower of compact tractors, allows them to handle larger implements and more demanding projects with greater ease and efficiency.

Tractor maneuverability and use

Sub-compact tractors are shorter, have less ground clearance, and have a better turning radius than most compact tractors. Because they are smaller, sub-compact tractors can squeeze between buildings or stands of trees more easily. Due to their low center of gravity, sub-compact tractors are also suitable for slopes. Sub-compact tractors are best if your primary use will be managing a large garden, mowing grass, pushing a moderate amount of snow, or doing small landscaping projects that don’t require a heavy lift capacity.

Compact tractors are taller with a broader wheelbase and have higher ground clearance than sub-compact tractors. Their taller stance and higher undercarriage make them ideal for traversing thick brush and reaching high areas. Though taller than sub-compact tractors, compact tractors are more stable when lifting heavy loads due to the weight of their large frame. Compact tractors are helpful if you have livestock to manage or large landscaping projects.

It’s also important to consider safety when evaluating equipment. Check out our guide to tractor safety features to better understand what you may need.

Tractor operator comfort

Tractors, in all categories, have come a long way in terms of operator comfort and luxury features. You can find tractors with either a cab or open canopy operator station in both categories.

Sub-compact tractors are more refined and suited for the casual tractor user. Many offer seats, padded armrests, radios, heated cabs, radios, and power ports. Due to their small stature, sub-compact tractors are easier to enter and exit than compact tractors, but they may be a little cramped for tall operators. 

Compact tractors are much more rugged and utilitarian than sub-compact tractors. Though a little less refined, they often offer more room for the operator and are still comfortable for a long day’s work.

Best sub-compact and compact tractors for your money

Now that you have a better idea of the difference between sub-compact tractors and compact tractors and which might best fit your small farm or acreage, it’s time to check out our list of the best sub-compact and compact tractors to consider.

This list and our guide to the best sub-compact tractors for your money should help you become more informed and confident about making a purchase.

John Deere 1025R sub-compact tractor

Engine HP: 23.9 HP
PTO HP: 17.2 HP
Max lift capacity: 758 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/HeatedBest uses: Large mowing areas, plowing snow, owners that switch between implements often or complete small-midsize projects. According to Tractor Zoom data, auction average is $13,116 and dealer listing average is $19,167.

The John Deere 1025R is one of the most popular sub-compact tractors. It is the top-of-the-line for sub-compact tractors in durability and price. You’ll be riding comfortably in the upgraded suspension seat. Implements quickly attach without the use of tools, so you can get to work faster. The 1025R offers an optional heated cab to keep out the elements and LED headlights. With the second largest max lift capacity on our sub-compact list, the 102R is good for heavier loads.

Kubota 23S sub-compact tractor

Engine HP: 21.6 HP
PTO HP: 17.7 HP
Max lift capacity: 680 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/Heated
Category: Sub-compact
Best uses: Hilly properties that require a variety of implements, projects that require a backhoe. According to Tractor Zoom data, auction average is $14,369 and dealer listing average is $20,530.

The Kubota BX23S has a max lift capacity of 680 lbs. and comes standard with a backhoe attachment. Kubota offers an impressive lineup of implements for its sub-compact tractors. Kubota has focused on comfort, with an upgraded seat and optional cab.

New Holland Workmaster 25S sub-compact tractor

Engine HP: 24.7 HP
PTO HP: 17.2 HP
Max lift capacity: 1,005 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/Heated
Best uses: Heavy lifting, riders who need extra legroom or easy entry and exit, areas where stability and power is a major concern. According to Tractor Zoom data, auction average is $12,910 and dealer listing average is $17,901.

The New Holland Workmaster 25S is designed for ease of use and comfort. With one of the largest max lift capacities in the sub-compact segment, the 25S is great for heavy loads. 

If legroom is important to you, take note of New Holland’s flat platform design. Built for easy entry and exit, this trip-free zone adds an extra layer of comfort. Color-coded controls reduce the learning curve for new operators.

Massey Ferguson 1840M compact tractor

Engine HP: 39.4 HP
PTO HP: 27.9-30 HP
Max lift capacity: 2,545 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/Heated
Category: Compact
Best uses: Heavy lifting, projects that require a powerful PTO, owners who are noise conscious and appreciate luxury features.

According to Tractor Zoom data, auction average is $25,643 and dealer listing average is $36,043.

The Massey Ferguson 1840M has an engine HP of 39.4 and a PTO HP ranging from 27.9 HP to 30 HP, depending on your chosen transmission option. The Massey Ferguson 1840M delivers extra power at lower RPM, allowing you to reduce noise and engine wear for larger projects. With the straightforward implement hookup, you’ll be ready for bigger and better projects in no time. This tractor rises to the challenge with one of the highest max lift capacities for compact tractors under 40 HP at 2,545 lbs. Massey Ferguson also includes all the creature comforts in this line. It’s perfect for those serious about getting the job done without sacrificing luxury upgrades

Mahindra 1626 Compact Tractor

Engine HP: 29.9 HP
PTO HP: 19.1-21.5 HP
Max lift capacity: 1,560 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/Heated & Cooled
Category: Compact
Best uses: Properties in cold climates or outdoor storage, properties with a lot of tight spaces or where a short turning radius is required.

According to Tractor Zoom data, the auction average is $15,015 and dealer listing average is $19,737.

The Mahindra 1626 has a 25.9 engine HP and 19.1 PTO HP (live) – 21.5 PTO HP (independent), with a max lift capacity of 1,560 lbs., Mahindra’s battery system is designed to start well in frigid temperatures, ideal for small farms and acreages in cold climates. In warmer months, stay cool with the A/C-enabled cab. Its short radius and superior handling for make it an ideal choice for wooded properties or projects in tight spaces.

 John Deere 3039R Compact Tractor

Engine HP: 38.8 HP
PTO HP: 29.8 HP
Max lift capacity: 2,100 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/ Heated & Cooled
Category: Compact
Best Uses: Heavy lifting, properties in hot climates or warm weather projects, and livestock management.  

According to Tractor Zoom data, the auction average is $25,891 and the dealer listing average is $37,584.

The John Deere 3039R is one of the only compact tractor models with the option of an air-conditioned cab. For those that have heavy loads like large round bales for horses or cattle and spend long hot days working on extensive landscaping or farm projects, the John Deere 3039R will take care of whatever you can throw at it with 38.8 engine HP, 29.8 HP PTO, and up to 2,100 lb. lift capacity.

Kubota L3560 Compact Tractor

Engine HP: 37 HP
PTO HP: 29.5 HP
Max lift capacity: 1,784 lbs.
Cab options: Yes/ Heated
Category: Compact
Best uses: Properties that require a lot of versatility.  

According to Tractor Zoom data, the auction average is $26,747 and the dealer listing average is $32,393.

The Kubota L3560 has 37 engine HP, 29.5 PTO HP, and a max lift capacity of 1,784 lbs. This tractor adds even more capabilities to the lineup, including the options of a 64” snowblower and 72” front flail mower. The Kubota L3560 is best for small farms or mid- to large-sized acreage owners with big projects to tackle that cover a variety of disciplines.

Begin your search to find new and used sub-compact tractors for sale and compact tractors for sale on TractorZoom.com.