Bobcat T86 vs John Deere 333G: Which Compact Track Loader Delivers More Power and Productivity in 2026?

Choosing between the Bobcat T86 and John Deere 333G compact track loaders is a high–impact business decision that affects daily productivity, attachment performance and long‑term operating cost on your jobsites. This enhanced guide compares horsepower, hydraulics, lift capacity, travel speed, comfort and attachment versatility, then adds expert buying tips tailored to modern construction, landscaping, agriculture and rental fleets.

Key spec overview: Bobcat T86 vs John Deere 333G

Before looking at jobsite behavior, it helps to compare the major specs side by side.

Core performance specifications

Feature	Bobcat T86	John Deere 333G
Engine horsepower (gross)	105 hp	100 hp
Rated operating capacity	3,800 lb	3,700 lb
Top travel speed (two‑speed)	10.4 mph	7.8 mph
Hydraulic flow – standard	23.6 gpm	25 gpm
Hydraulic flow – high	36.6 gpm	41.1 gpm
Hydraulic flow – super flow	42 gpm (T86 only)	Not available

The Bobcat T86 pairs slightly higher horsepower with a compact machine frame, which helps when you need power in tight spaces. The John Deere 333G remains competitive on standard and high‑flow hydraulics but lacks a super‑flow option, limiting maximum attachment performance compared with the T86.

Horsepower and power management

Engine power and driveline behavior

The Bobcat T86 delivers 105 hp, while the John Deere 333G offers 100 hp. That additional power in the T86 is matched to an optimized machine‑to‑horsepower ratio, which improves responsiveness and maneuverability in a compact frame.

– T86: higher horsepower, compact frame, optimized power‑to‑weight balance.

– 333G: slightly lower horsepower but still suitable for heavy construction and site work.

Premium Power Performance: intelligent power distribution (T86)

A key differentiator for the T86 is Premium Power Performance, an intelligent power management system that automatically distributes power between the drive train and the hydraulic workgroup. It can provide up to 13% more output during work cycles compared to competitive compact track loaders, especially on high‑flow and super‑flow applications.

How this helps on site:

– When pushing into a pile, more power is sent to the drive system for traction.

– When running a high‑demand attachment, power is directed to the hydraulics while still keeping the machine controllable.

– During multitasking (driving while operating an attachment), the system continuously balances power to help prevent stalling and maintain smooth operation.

The John Deere 333G offers strong hydrostatic performance but does not include the same Premium Power Performance system found on the T86. For contractors frequently running high‑demand attachments, that can make the T86 feel more efficient and easier to control under load.

Hydraulics, lift capacity and travel speed

Hydraulic flow options

Hydraulic versatility is one of the main reasons many buyers lean toward the Bobcat T86.

– T86 hydraulic flow options:

– Standard flow: 23.6 gpm

– High flow: 36.6 gpm

– Super flow: 42 gpm

– 333G hydraulic flow options:

– Standard flow: 25 gpm

– High flow: 41.1 gpm

While the 333G offers slightly higher numbers in standard and high‑flow modes, the T86 adds a third, super‑flow mode that increases auxiliary flow and pressure to deliver more hydraulic horsepower than the Deere machine. This is especially valuable for demanding attachments such as planers, forestry drum mulchers and large snowblowers.

Rated operating capacity and machine productivity

The T86 has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 3,800 lb, compared to 3,700 lb on the 333G. That difference may appear small on paper, but it gives the T86 a slight edge when handling heavy pallets, pipe bundles or large material buckets.

In practice, that means:

– Lifting slightly heavier loads with confidence.

– Better stability at maximum reach when loading high‑sided trucks or hoppers.

– More flexibility when pairing the machine with heavier attachments.

Travel speed and cycle times

The T86 includes standard two‑speed travel with a top speed of 10.4 mph, while the 333G reaches 7.8 mph. On large jobsites or roadwork and snow contracts, this higher transport speed can reduce non‑productive travel time and improve total daily output.

Attachment versatility and super‑flow advantages

Three hydraulic flow settings in one machine (T86)

One of the strongest selling points of the Bobcat T86 is its ability to run three hydraulic flow settings in a single compact track loader. This makes the T86 exceptionally flexible for fleets that share machines across different crews and applications.

Typical use cases:

– Standard flow: buckets, grapples, brooms and light‑duty attachments.

– High flow: cold planers, standard forestry mulchers, snowblowers.

– Super flow: high‑demand super‑flow planers, super‑flow forestry drum mulchers and large snow equipment designed specifically for the T86.

By comparison, the 333G offers standard and high‑flow packages but no super‑flow, limiting maximum hydraulic horsepower for the most demanding tools.

Super‑flow attachments and productivity

Bobcat’s super‑flow attachments are engineered to match the T86’s super‑flow hydraulics. These include:

– Super‑flow forestry drum mulchers.

– Super‑flow cold planers.

– Super‑flow snowblowers.

In internal comparisons, Bobcat notes that its 48‑inch super‑flow planer was up to 20% more productive than a comparable high‑flow planer. The widest John Deere cold planer for the 333G is 30 inches, which not only covers less width but runs with slightly less hydraulic horsepower and flow than the T86 super‑flow combination.

Over several hours of milling or snow removal, that extra width and power can translate into measurable gains in completed work and lower cost per job.

Operator comfort, controls and visibility

Cab design and visibility

The T86 is part of Bobcat’s R‑Series, which features a one‑piece enclosed cab with best‑in‑class visibility and an optional clear‑side enclosure. A rear‑view camera comes standard to improve awareness when backing up or maneuvering in congested areas.

Key T86 comfort features:

– Spacious R‑Series cab with improved visibility around the boom.

– Standard rear‑view camera.

– Optional clear‑side enclosure to help reduce blind spots.

John Deere’s 333G cab is also designed for all‑day use, with competitive visibility and comfort, but the T86’s visibility and rear‑view camera are highlighted as standard advantages.

Controls and operator fatigue

The T86 includes Bobcat Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC) as standard. Operators can switch between ISO or H‑pattern control at the flip of a switch, which helps:

– Reduce training time when you have mixed operator backgrounds.

– Lower fatigue by allowing operators to choose their preferred pattern.

– Improve precision when grading or working close to obstacles.

Combined with automatic ride control and dual‑direction bucket positioning, the T86 is designed to keep the load more stable and reduce material spillage while increasing comfort over rough ground. The 333G offers its own advanced controls, but the availability of SJC and dual‑direction bucket positioning as standard on the T86 is a notable advantage for fleets focused on operator experience.

Suspension, cooling and reliability

5‑Link torsion suspension undercarriage (T86)

The Bobcat T86 uses a patented 5‑Link torsion suspension undercarriage for enhanced ride quality and stability. This design isolates the undercarriage from the main frame to better absorb bumps, which helps:

– Increase operator comfort and reduce fatigue.

– Improve grading precision on uneven ground.

– Reduce shock loads that can contribute to wear on machine components.

The John Deere 333G uses a different undercarriage concept and does not feature this 5‑Link torsion suspension system, which is unique to the R‑Series loaders.

Cooling system and maintenance

The T86 cooling system is designed for optimal performance with larger cooling components and a standard reversing fan. This is especially important for:

– Forestry and brush work where debris can pack radiators.

– High‑duty cycles in hot climates.

– Long days of milling, mulching or snow removal.

R‑Series loaders use a Bobcat‑branded engine with a focus on efficient performance and simplified routine maintenance. The 333G is also engineered for demanding environments, but the combination of larger cooling components and a standard reversing fan gives the T86 a clear advantage when working in dusty, hot or debris‑heavy conditions.

Real‑world applications: which jobs suit each loader?

When the Bobcat T86 is the stronger choice

The T86 is a compelling option if you:

– Regularly run high‑demand hydraulic attachments, especially planers, forestry mulchers and large snowblowers.

– Need three hydraulic flow options in one machine for maximum fleet flexibility.

– Work on large jobsites where higher travel speed (10.4 mph) improves cycle times.

– Prioritize cab visibility, rear‑view camera, and advanced suspension for all‑day operator comfort.

Typical ideal applications:

– Road milling and asphalt maintenance.

– Forestry, land clearing and vegetation management.

– Municipal and commercial snow removal.

– Heavy construction, infrastructure projects and high‑productivity rental fleets.

When the John Deere 333G may still fit

The John Deere 333G remains a capable compact track loader with strong high‑flow hydraulics and a rated operating capacity comparable to the T86. It may be suitable if:

– Your attachment set is built around standard and high‑flow tools, without the need for super‑flow.

– You have existing Deere machines and dealer support that you want to standardize around.

– You prioritize integration with other John Deere equipment in your fleet.

However, if you are comparing purely on power, productivity and attachment versatility, the T86 generally offers more future‑proof capacity for high‑demand hydraulic work.

Expert buying framework for contractors and fleet managers

To go beyond specs, use this step‑by‑step approach when deciding between the Bobcat T86 and John Deere 333G in 2026.

1. Define your top three applications

List the jobs that generate most of your revenue: road construction, land clearing, site prep, snow removal, agriculture or rental. If two or more of these rely on heavy hydraulic attachments, lean toward the T86 for its three flow modes and super‑flow capability.

2. Audit your current and planned attachments

Note which attachments you own and which you may buy in the next three years. Flag tools that are high‑flow or super‑flow candidates, such as planers and forestry drum mulchers. If you plan to move into heavier milling or forestry work, the T86’s super‑flow system and dedicated attachments will deliver more growth potential.

3. Evaluate operator comfort and retention

Ask operators to test both machines, focusing on visibility, cab noise, joystick feel and ride comfort. The T86’s R‑Series cab, 5‑Link torsion suspension and Selectable Joystick Controls are designed to reduce fatigue and improve precision, which can directly impact daily productivity and long‑term operator retention.

4. Consider jobsite conditions and climate

For hot, dusty or debris‑intense conditions, prioritize the T86’s larger cooling components and standard reversing fan, which help maintain performance and reduce downtime for cleaning. In milder climates with lighter duty cycles, both machines can perform well, but the T86 still retains an advantage for intensive hydraulic work.

5. Balance upfront cost with lifecycle value

Compare not just purchase price, but also expected productivity, attachment compatibility and resale value. A T86 equipped with high‑flow or super‑flow hydraulics plus Premium Power Performance can generate more revenue per hour in demanding applications, which may offset a higher initial investment.

How the T86 compares in productivity and efficiency

Premium Power Performance and jobsite efficiency

Premium Power Performance can make the T86 up to 13% more productive than competitive compact track loaders in similar applications. This advantage comes from better engine‑to‑workgroup efficiency, meaning more usable power is delivered to where it is needed most at any moment.

In practice, this can result in:

– Fewer stalls and slow‑downs when pushing or grading under load.

– Smoother operation when simultaneously driving and operating high‑demand attachments.

– More consistent performance through the workday, especially when conditions vary.

Planer width and hydraulic horsepower

The 48‑inch super‑flow planer available for the T86 covers significantly more ground than John Deere’s widest 30‑inch cold planer for the 333G. Paired with greater hydraulic horsepower from the super‑flow system, the T86 setup can complete larger projects faster, with fewer passes and less fuel burned per square meter.

For contractors bidding on competitive roadwork or municipal maintenance contracts, these differences can translate into more profitable jobs and stronger bid positions.

Get the right power class for your jobs

If you are evaluating the Bobcat T86 vs John Deere 333G, the key is to match power, hydraulics and comfort to your real‑world jobs instead of just comparing spec sheets. For many high‑demand applications, the T86 stands out with three hydraulic flow modes, super‑flow attachments, higher travel speed, and advanced power management that can unlock significantly more productivity.

As a global manufacturer of excavators, skid‑steer loaders, road rollers, forklifts, tractors and tracked carriers, Certeg can help you select machines in the right power band and hydraulic configuration for your core applications. Use this comparison as a reference, then contact our team to discuss a tailored equipment solution, including compact track loaders, attachments and matching support packages for your region.

Ready to move from comparison to action? Reach out to Certeg today for a one‑to‑one equipment consultation, a customized loader and attachment proposal, and support that helps you turn machine power into real jobsite profit.

FAQ:

(1) Is the Bobcat T86 more powerful than the John Deere 333G?

The Bobcat T86 has a 105 hp engine versus 100 hp on the John Deere 333G, giving it a modest horsepower advantage in a compact frame size. In addition, its power management system improves how that power is distributed, helping deliver more usable output in demanding applications.

(2) What are the hydraulic differences between the T86 and 333G?

The T86 offers three hydraulic flow options—standard, high and super flow—while the 333G provides standard and high‑flow options only. Super flow on the T86 delivers up to 42 gpm, which supports more demanding attachments and higher hydraulic horsepower than the 333G can provide.

(3) Which loader is better for planers and forestry mulchers?

For heavy planing and forestry work, the T86 is usually the stronger choice because of its super‑flow hydraulics and dedicated super‑flow attachments. Its 48‑inch super‑flow planer can be significantly more productive than a comparable high‑flow planer, and Deere’s widest cold planer for the 333G is 30 inches.

(4) How do operator comfort and controls compare?

The T86 R‑Series cab includes excellent visibility, a standard rear‑view camera, an optional clear‑side enclosure and Selectable Joystick Controls that let operators switch between ISO and H‑pattern. It also features a 5‑Link torsion suspension undercarriage and automatic ride control, which together deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride over rough terrain.

(5) How should I choose between the Bobcat T86 and John Deere 333G?

Start by listing your main applications and attachment requirements, then consider which machine offers the hydraulic flow, travel speed, comfort and attachment support that best matches those jobs. If you depend on high‑demand hydraulic tools, need maximum productivity and value advanced power management, the T86 generally provides more capability and room for future growth.

References:

1. https://www.bobcat.com/na/en/buying-resources/loaders/bobcat-t86-loader-vs-john-deere-333g-loader

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