Comparing Bobcat and New Holland Skid Steers for Practical Use

[MikePhua]

Brand Background and Market Position
Bobcat, founded in 1947 in North Dakota, is widely credited with inventing the modern skid steer loader. Its machines have become synonymous with compact equipment, and the brand has maintained a dominant market share globally. With over 1 million units sold, Bobcat’s reputation is built on durability, resale value, and a vast dealer network.
New Holland, originally established in Pennsylvania in 1895 and now part of CNH Industrial, entered the skid steer market later but introduced innovations like the Super Boom vertical lift system. This design offers extended reach and lift height, making New Holland machines popular in agricultural and material handling applications.
Operator Comfort and Control Systems
Bobcat machines are known for their ergonomic hand controls and visibility. Newer models feature selectable joystick patterns, allowing operators to switch between ISO and H-pattern layouts. This flexibility reduces fatigue and accommodates different operator preferences.
New Holland traditionally used foot controls for boom and bucket functions, which some operators prefer for precision tasks. However, manual controls on older models can be stiff and tiring over long shifts. New Holland has since introduced pilot controls in newer units, addressing this concern.
Operators with conditions like tendonitis may find electronic controls more comfortable. Machines like the Bobcat S300 or Case XT series offer minimal effort input and smoother hydraulic response, which is critical for tasks requiring fine control, such as pallet handling or snow removal.
Hydraulic Performance and Lifting Capacity
Bobcat skid steers generally offer strong breakout force and responsive hydraulics. The S300, for example, delivers over 3,000 lbs of rated operating capacity and high-flow auxiliary hydraulics for demanding attachments.
New Holland’s LS190, while offering good reach and lift height, has been criticized for underpowered hydraulics and outdated control systems in earlier models. However, it remains a capable machine for lifting heavy loads, with some operators reporting consistent performance when loading semis or handling logs.
Key performance comparisons:

• Bobcat S300: 3,000+ lbs ROC, high-flow hydraulics, cab comfort
  
• New Holland LS180/LS190: 2,500–2,800 lbs ROC, Super Boom reach, manual controls
  

Maintenance and Dealer Support
Bobcat’s extensive dealer network ensures parts availability and service support, but some users report high costs for parts and labor. New Holland machines are often easier to service independently due to simpler mechanical layouts, though dealer support varies by region.
Dealership reputation plays a major role in ownership experience. A machine with excellent specs can become a liability if the dealer is unresponsive or overpriced. Buyers are advised to evaluate local dealer service quality before committing.
Resale Value and Longevity
Bobcat machines tend to hold their value better due to brand recognition and widespread use. A well-maintained Bobcat can command a premium in the used market, especially models with cab, heat, and low hours.
New Holland machines depreciate faster, particularly older models with manual controls. However, for part-time users or those with limited budgets, a used New Holland can offer solid performance at a lower entry cost.
Anecdotes and Field Experience
One operator in Connecticut ran both Bobcat and New Holland machines and preferred Bobcat for visibility and control layout. Another user in Iowa favored New Holland for its smoother ride and reach but noted the lack of hydraulic power in older models.
A nursery in New York uses New Holland machines exclusively, citing reliability and lifting capacity. Meanwhile, a snow removal contractor found the Case 95XT’s heater design inadequate for cold climates, despite liking the machine’s overall performance.
Alternative Brands and Considerations
Other brands like Mustang, Thomas, and Scat Trak offer budget-friendly options with simpler designs. Mustang machines, for example, have proven reliable over decades but may lack modern features. Cat skid steers, while more expensive, offer advanced controls and comfort, setting a benchmark for premium performance.
Recommendations for buyers:

• For heavy lifting and reach: New Holland Super Boom models
  
• For operator comfort and resale: Bobcat S-series with cab and joystick controls
  
• For budget-conscious users: Used Mustang or Scat Trak with low hours
  
• For long-term reliability: Machines with strong dealer support and parts availability
  

Conclusion
Choosing between Bobcat and New Holland skid steers depends on intended use, operator comfort, budget, and local support. Bobcat leads in ergonomics and resale, while New Holland offers reach and simplicity. Both brands have strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice often comes down to personal preference and job requirements. With careful inspection and realistic expectations, either machine can serve reliably for years.