KIOTI

By Joel Hicks, Product Line Manager, KIOTI

( GUEST CONTRIBUTOR)— In recent years, compact track loaders( CTLs) have steadily grown in popularity, and are now holding a significant share of the compact equipment industry in the North American market.

Built for durability, versatility and the ability to navigate uneven terrain, CTLs have long been mainstays on construction sites. Today, however, more farmers are beginning to recognize their potential as partners alongside tractors.

From moving hay bales to preparing fields for crops and even clearing snow in the winter, farmers need machines that can handle a wide range of jobs. To that end, compact track loaders offer capabilities that allow them to get some work done more effectively than tractors.

Tractors vs. CTLs on the Farm

No equipment can truly replace tractors. These powerful machines remain the backbone of most farms’ daily operations. They excel at row cropping, planting, tillage and any job requiring power take-off( PTO)-driven implements, such as balers or mowers. Their pulling power and endurance in fieldscale work are unmatched.

On the other side of things, CTLs bring unique advantages such as utilizing tracks instead of wheels which gives them the ability to distribute weight evenly, making them stable on soft ground, snow and any uneven terrain.

Their compact size, precision hydraulics, high lift height and strong lifting performance make them ideal for material handling and construction-style jobs, particularly in confined areas where tractors are less efficient.

While they typically don’ t match tractors for pulling power or field-scale farming, CTLs often provide superior versatility for lifting, grading and site preparation around the farm.

Why Choose Compact Power for Acreage

For many farmers, a CTL is not a replacement for the tractor, but a powerful partner. Tractors are built for long hours in the field, while CTLs handle the heavy lifting, digging and precision work around the farm that bring unique advantages.

With tracks instead of wheels, CTLs can operate on a wide range of terrains throughout the year. Their tracks distribute weight more evenly than tires, offering better traction, stability and lift capacity on soft or uneven ground. When it comes to lifting materials, moving in tight spaces or handling construction-style projects, CTLs often give farmers

October 2025 | www. FarmersHotLine. com | 23