Best wheel loaders 2025
Explore the best wheel loaders in 2025. Ranked by brand and model, these machines deliver outstanding performance in construction, mining, and heavy material handling, sourced from trusted global manufacturers.
The Cat 906M (2015–2022) is a compact loader with an operating weight of ~5.6 t, bucket capacity ~0.8–1.0 m³, and net power of ~55.5 kW (74 hp) from a Cat C3.3B engine. It combines skid steer-like agility with loader stability, ideal for tight-site work.
- Engine: Cat C3.3B (~55.5 kW / 74 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~5,600 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~0.8–1.0 m³
- Breakout Force: ~42–45 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~3,450 kg
- Travel Speed: ~20–35 km/h
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing, 100 L/min pump flow
- Fuel Tank: ~80 L
Overview
Compact loader for landscaping, municipal, and farm work. Tight turning, parallel-lift arms, and good visibility make it versatile year-round.
Parallel lift improves load stability.
Hydrostatic drive not ideal for long travel.
Performance & Efficiency
Hydrostatic transmission makes it nimble. Parallel-lift arms keep loads level. Load-sensing hydraulics improve control and fuel efficiency.
In Comparison
Volvo L25F matches size with more bucket capacity; JCB 406 offers more clearance but less refined cab.
Verdict
Best suited for operators needing agility over volume in compact loader work.
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AED 300,000Starting from
AED 200,000The Cat 938 (2013–2025) comes in K and M variants. Operating weight ~14.3–15.0 t, bucket size ~2.5–2.7 m³, power ~129–140 kW (173–188 hp) from the Cat C7.1 ACERT engine. K is Tier 4 Interim with proven Z-bar linkage; M is Tier 4 Final with advanced hydraulics, Payload, and improved fuel efficiency.
- Engine: Cat C7.1 ACERT (~129–140 kW / 173–188 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~14,300–15,000 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~2.5–2.7 m³
- Breakout Force: ~105–115 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~9,800–10,300 kg
- Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; Smart Mode & EH controls (M)
- Fuel Tank: ~250 L
Variants
- 938K (2013–2016): Tier 4 Interim, mechanical joystick, basic monitoring, strong Z-bar breakout.
- 938M (2017–2025): Tier 4 Final, electro-hydraulic controls, Payload system, Optimized Z-bar for better parallel lift.
Overview
Mid-size loader ideal for bulk handling, snow removal, and plant work. K trim is simple and proven; M trim adds tech features for faster cycles and fuel savings.
M adds tech and better fuel efficiency.
M electronics require precise servicing.
Performance & Efficiency
Both variants are quick and stable. M's Smart Mode adapts RPM to load for lower fuel use. K stays consistent and simple across job types.
In Comparison
Volvo L70H matches size but is heavier; Deere 644K offers more lift but adds weight.
Verdict
K for reliable simplicity, M for advanced features and efficiency gains.
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AED 590,000Starting from
AED 280,000The Cat 950 series (2006–2025) spans G, GC, H, and M trims. Operating weight ~18.1–20.1 t, bucket sizes ~2.7–4.4 m³, power ~168–186 kW (225–249 hp). G and H target heavy production, GC trims cost for light applications, M adds Payload, advanced hydraulics, and better fuel efficiency.
- Engine: C7.1 ACERT / C9 ACERT (~168–186 kW / 225–249 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~18,100–20,100 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~2.7–4.4 m³
- Breakout Force: ~145–170 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~12,500–14,200 kg
- Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement (H, M)
- Fuel Tank: ~259–300 L
Variants
- 950G (2006–2007): Simple, robust, mechanical controls.
- 950GC (2017–2025): Lower-cost spec, simplified cab and systems for light-duty or intermittent use
- 950H (2007–2011): Tier 3 ACERT, improved ride control, upgraded cab ergonomics
- 950M (2014–2025): Tier 4 Final, integrated Payload, optimized Z-bar linkage, better fuel efficiency.
Overview
Mid-size loader balancing capacity and maneuverability. GC suits low-cost utility, G/H bring proven durability, M focuses on efficiency and integrated tech.
Strong breakout and stability, good resale value.
G and H less fuel efficient than M.
Performance & Efficiency
High breakout across variants. M benefits from adaptive hydraulics, auto-dig, and payload weighing for fewer passes and lower fuel burn. G/H are simpler and tolerant of mixed fuel quality.
In Comparison
Volvo L120H offers smoother hydrostatic feel; Komatsu WA470 matches breakout but carries more weight. Cat’s service network remains a buying advantage.
Verdict
GC for lowest entry cost, G/H for durability, M for efficiency and tech integration.
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AED 300,000Starting from
AED 150,000The Cat 966 (2014–2025) comes in H and M variants. Operating weight ~23.5–24.6 t, bucket size ~3.2–4.2 m³, power ~195–239 kW (261–321 hp) from the Cat C9.3 ACERT or C9.3B. H is Tier 4 Interim with proven durability; M is Tier 4 Final with Payload, drivetrain refinements, and improved EH controls.
- Engine: Cat C9.3 ACERT / C9.3B (~195–239 kW / 261–321 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~23,500–24,600 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~3.2–4.2 m³
- Breakout Force: ~195–210 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~17,000–18,200 kg
- Travel Speed: ~37–40 km/h
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; EH controls on M
- Fuel Tank: ~300–350 L
Variants
- 966H (2014–2016): Tier 4 Interim ACERT, mechanical joystick, robust Z-bar linkage, proven field serviceability.
- 966M (2017–2025): Tier 4 Final, Payload weighing, more efficient powertrain tuning, improved cab ergonomics, better parallel lift with Optimized Z-bar.
Overview
Heavy-duty loader for quarry, aggregate, and bulk handling. H trim is tough and simple; M trim adds Payload, tech upgrades, and fuel efficiency improvements.
M adds Payload and parallel lift improvements.
M electronics require skilled servicing.
Performance & Efficiency
Both trims are fast and stable. M's Smart Mode optimizes fuel use and reduces operator fatigue. H is predictable and service-friendly for remote work.
In Comparison
Volvo L150H matches lift but rides smoother; Komatsu WA470-8 has more bucket volume but heavier frame.
Verdict
H for tough-site reliability, M for tech integration and efficiency gains.
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AED 550,000Starting from
AED 275,000The Cat 980 (2006–2014) comes in G and H variants. Operating weight ~29.4–30.5 t, bucket size ~4.6–6.1 m³, power ~250–274 kW (335–367 hp) from the Cat C15 ACERT engine. G is Tier 3 with proven durability; H adds improved hydraulics, better fuel economy, and cab comfort upgrades.
- Engine: Cat C15 ACERT (~250–274 kW / 335–367 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~29,400–30,500 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~4.6–6.1 m³
- Breakout Force: ~250–265 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~22,000–23,500 kg
- Travel Speed: ~39–40 km/h
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing, variable-displacement; refined in H
- Fuel Tank: ~454 L
Variants
- 980G (2006–2008): Tier 3 ACERT engine, mechanical joystick, strong Z-bar breakout, heavy-duty axles.
- 980H (2009–2014): Enhanced powertrain tuning, load-sensing hydraulics, improved HVAC, and better cab insulation.
Overview
Large production loader for quarry, stockpile, and load-out work. G is rugged and serviceable; H adds tech refinements for efficiency and comfort.
H has smoother hydraulics and better fuel use.
Large footprint reduces mobility.
Performance & Efficiency
Handles heavy production well. H runs cooler and more efficiently with refined hydraulics and powertrain tuning.
In Comparison
Komatsu WA500-6 matches capacity with faster travel; Volvo L220F rides smoother but costs more upfront.
Verdict
G for remote-site toughness, H for efficiency and operator comfort.
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AED 500,000Starting from
AED 200,000The John Deere 524K (2015–2019) is a mid-size K-Series wheel loader. Operating weight ~12.67 t, bucket capacity 1.7–2.4 m³, powered by a PowerTech E 6068H Tier 3 diesel at 106 kW (142 hp). It breaks out at ~9,638 kg, travels ~38.5 km/h, with a 2.54 m bucket width and ~2.77 m max discharge height.
- Engine: PowerTech E 6068H Tier 3, 106 kW (142 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~12,670 kg
- Bucket Capacity: 1.7–2.4 m³
- Breakout: ~9,638 kg (~21,248 lb)
- Travel Speed: ~38.5 km/h
- Bucket Width: ~2.54 m
- Max Discharge Height: ~2.77 m
Overview
K-Series value with smart tech: reliable PowerTech power, quad-cooler durability, Powerllel™ linkage, onboard LCD and JDLink monitoring—without fluff.
Tech-rich (diagnostics, payload, fleet tracking).
Needs proper site access—over 12 t.
Performance & Efficiency
Fast hydraulics, matched bucket and engine, smart cooling—less downtime. Visibility and controls reduce fatigue.
In Comparison
Cat 924G is lighter and simpler; Volvo L70F smoother but costlier in total ownership.
Verdict
524K hits the sweet spot for smart mid-sized loader needs—tech, toughness, uptime.
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AED 385,000Starting from
AED 320,000The John Deere 544 (2004–2008) comes in J and K variants. Operating weight ~15.2–15.6 t, bucket size ~2.3–3.1 m³, power ~121–127 kW (162–170 hp) from the 6068H PowerTech engine. The J is simple and service-friendly, while the K adds Tier 3 compliance, improved cab comfort, and smoother hydraulics.
- Engine: John Deere 6068H PowerTech (~121–127 kW / 162–170 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~15,200–15,600 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~2.3–3.1 m³
- Breakout Force: ~120–135 kN
- Tipping Load (Straight): ~10,900–11,300 kg
- Travel Speed: ~37 km/h
- Hydraulics: Closed-center, load-sensing; faster on K
- Fuel Tank: ~246 L
Variants
- 544J: Mechanical controls, proven drivetrain, straightforward maintenance.
- 544K: Tier 3 engine, low-effort pilot controls, better ride control, updated HVAC for operator comfort.
Overview
Mid-size loader with proven versatility. J trim is rugged and easy to service; K trim focuses on comfort, Tier 3 emissions, and refined hydraulics.
J’s mechanical simplicity eases maintenance.
Fuel economy behind modern equivalents.
Performance & Efficiency
Strong breakout and stable handling across trims. K gains faster hydraulics and ride control for better load retention.
In Comparison
Comparable to Cat 924G but stronger; Komatsu WA200-5 burns less fuel but has less torque.
Verdict
J for rugged simplicity, K for comfort and Tier 3 compliance.
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AED 292,000Starting from
AED 210,000The John Deere 624K (2008–2021) is a mid-size wheel loader delivering around 141 kW (188 hp) from a PowerTech 6068H Tier 3 engine. It weighs ~15.6 t, carries ~2.7 m³ buckets, and offers ~12,821 kg of breakout force. Its K-Series build combines PowerTech efficiency, Quad-Cool durability, and parallel-lift Z-Bar linkage—designed for uptime.
- Engine: PowerTech 6068H Tier 3 — 141 kW (188 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~15,600 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~2.7 m³ (3.5 yd³)
- Breakout Force: ~12,821 kg
- Travel Speed: up to ~40 km/h via 5-speed PowerShift
- Cooling / Hydraulics: Quad-Cool; load-sensing hydraulics (~223 L/min)
- Fuel Tank: ~300–350 L
Overview
Reliable mid-size loader with a strong punch and field-tested tech like LCD diagnostics, payload options, and simplified servicing with Quad-Cool.
Tech-savvy and uptime-focused features.
Fuel economy follows older emissions class.
Performance & Efficiency
Strong breakout, smart hydraulics, and Chic thermal control keep work moving in hot or dusty environments.
In Comparison
Volvo L110E smooths things out, Komatsu WA470-8 brings more bucket—Deere wins on service and uptime.
Verdict
Dependable, tech-equipped mid-size loader that delivers. K-Series II is newer, but 624K still works the hardest.
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AED 560,000Starting from
AED 480,000The John Deere 644K (2015–2019) is a mid-size wheel loader delivering ~173 kW (232 hp) from a Tier 3 PowerTech engine. Weighs ~18.3–18.7 t, bucket size ~2.8–3.2 m³, and offers ~15,378 kg of breakout force.
- Engine: PowerTech 6068H Tier 3 — 173 kW (232 hp)
- Operating Weight: ~18,333–18,682 kg
- Bucket Capacity: ~2.8–3.2 m³
- Breakout Force: ~15,378 kg
- Travel Speed: Up to ~40 km/h via PowerShift
Overview
Heavy-duty loader built to last. Designed for high-output performance with engineering for uptime—Quad-Cool, payload options, and service accessibility.
Technology for uptime: Payload, LCD, PowerShift.
Fuel efficiency less than Tier 4 loaders.
Performance & Efficiency
Consistent breakout with smart thermal control and fast cycles via PowerShift transmission.
In Comparison
Volvo L110E offers smoother ride, Komatsu WA470-8 has larger bucket—Deere wins on support and uptime.
Verdict
For serious loader work where uptime, power, and simplicity matter—the 644K is a sharp pick. K-Series II adds newer emissions tech, but the original stays robust.
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AED 850,000Starting from
AED 690,000Related machinery rankings
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