Bobcat S550 vs S570: which 3-ton skid steer gives better lift

Bobcat S550 and Bobcat S570 are both 3-ton skid steer loaders built for compact site work, but they are different machines with different strengths. The S550 carries a larger bucket and higher tipping load, while the S570 reaches a slightly higher lift point. Picking the wrong one for your job can cost you time and money every day. 

This article compares S550 and S570, it focuses on lifting capacity, bucket size, engine output, and lift height so you can choose the best-fit skid steer for your jobsite needs.

Bobcat S550 vs S570: full specs comparison

Both machines sit in the same weight class, but the differences in power, bucket volume, and lift specs matter on a working site. Here is the full picture side by side.

Bobcat S550 VS S570: Which has higher lifting capacity

Bobcat S550 has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 894 kg and a tipping load of 1,852 kg. Bobcat S570 comes in at 885 kg ROC and a tipping load of 1,769 kg. 

The S550 lifts more, full stop. 

The gap is not massive, around 9 kg in ROC and 83 kg in tipping load, but over a full shift of repeated lifts, that extra capacity adds up.

For buyers sourcing a skid steer for heavy loading tasks like stockpiling aggregate, moving soil, or loading trucks on a busy site, the S550 is the stronger performer. 

The S570 is still a capable machine, but its lower tipping load means operators need to be more careful when the bucket is full and the arms are raised. 

You can read more about tipping load and rated operating capacity in skid steers. 

Bobcat S550 vs S570: Bucket size

This is where the gap between these two machines becomes very clear. Bobcat S550 comes with a 0.93 m³ GP bucket, while Bobcat S570 uses a 0.37 m³ GP bucket. That is more than twice the bucket volume. In practice, the S550 can move significantly more material per pass, which directly reduces cycle times on loading and cleanup tasks.

If your work involves moving loose material like sand, gravel, mulch, or demolition debris, the S550 completes the job in fewer passes. 

The S570's smaller bucket suits lighter, more precise work, but for high-volume material handling on a busy construction site, the S550 is the more productive machine. 

Keep in mind that bucket selection for excavators and loaders is always job-specific, so larger is not always better, but for general site loading, the S550 has the clear advantage.

S570 vs S550 engines: 36% difference in power output

The S550 runs a Kubota V2607-DI-T-E3B engine rated at 61 hp. The S570 uses a Bobcat D24 engine rated at 45 hp. That is a 36% difference in power output, which has real consequences on site. 

The S550 handles heavier attachments more comfortably, pushes through denser material without bogging down, and maintains more consistent hydraulic flow under load.

The S570's 45 hp engine is adequate for standard loading, light grading, and general cleanup, but if you plan to run demanding attachments like a hydraulic breaker, auger, or cold planer, the S550's extra power gives you more room to work. 

Both machines use hydrostatic transmission, which supports smooth, controlled travel and helps protect the drivetrain during long operating hours. 

For more detail on how powertrain systems affect skid steer performance, see our guide on skid steer powertrain types.

Lift height comparison: S550 vs S570

Bobcat S570 reaches a lift height of 3.02 m, compared to the S550's 2.9 m lift height. The S550 also has a maximum dump height of 2.205 m. 

The S570's 12 cm advantage in lift height can matter when loading into high-sided trucks or tipping over tall barriers, but in most standard applications, both machines reach an acceptable working height.

If your site regularly involves loading into elevated truck beds or working above standard height barriers, the S570's extra reach is a practical benefit. 

For most general construction and landscaping tasks, the S550's lift height is more than enough, and the larger bucket and higher capacity more than compensate. The difference in lift height alone is not a reason to choose the S570 unless your job demands it specifically.

Need a lighter skid steer? Available Bobcat models on Makana

The S550 and S570 are coming soon, but if you need a Bobcat skid steer loader for sale right now, Makana has three models in stock at its yard in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai.

Bobcat S150, Bobcat S450, and Bobcat S510 cover a wide range of operating weights, lift heights, and rated capacities. Each machine has passed a +75-point certified inspection using the Jaltest Link V9 Kit before listing. 

Comparing available Bobcat skid steer loaders on Makana

The S150 is the lightest option, suited for tight spaces and lighter loads. The S450 and S510 step up in capacity and lift height for more demanding site work. 

You can browse current stock on Makana, request a machine, or get in touch with the team directly through the platform. 

Read more about Bobcat skid steer articles on Makana

• Bobcat S510 specs and performance. 
• Bobcat S510 ROI for UAE buyers.
• Bobcat skid steer lineup (S130, S450, and S510) comparisons.

FAQ

What is the tipping load of Bobcat S550

Bobcat S550 has a tipping load of 1,852 kg and a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 894 kg. The ROC is 50% of the tipping load, which is the standard safe operating figure for skid steer loaders.

Is Bobcat S570 good for heavy loading work

Bobcat S570 can handle general loading tasks with its 885 kg ROC and 1,769 kg tipping load. However, for high-volume material handling or demanding attachment work, the S550 offers more capacity and nearly 36% more engine power.

What engine does Bobcat S550 use

Bobcat S550 uses a Kubota V2607-DI-T-E3B-BC-2 engine rated at 61 hp. It is a turbocharged diesel engine paired with hydrostatic transmission, manufactured in the Czech Republic.

How high can Bobcat S570 lift

Bobcat S570 has a lift height of 3.02 m, which is slightly higher than the S550's 2.9 m lift height. This makes the S570 a better option when loading into tall trucks or working above standard dump height.

Can Bobcat S550 and S570 use the same attachments

Both Bobcat S550 and S570 support Bobcat attachment mounting system, so most standard Bobcat attachments are compatible with both machines. However, the S550's 61 hp engine supports more demanding hydraulic attachments compared to the S570's 45 hp output. Always check the hydraulic flow requirements of the attachment against the machine's auxiliary hydraulic specs before fitting.