The smallest true sit-in skid steer class
Small-Frame Skid Steer Loader
A conventional sit-in skid steer at the smallest available frame size. Representative machines include Bobcat S70-class units and entry small-frame models from CASE, John Deere, Kubota and New Holland. This is the step up when a mini loader runs out of capacity but a full-size machine will not fit or is not needed.
Approximate specifications
| Specification | Approximate range |
|---|---|
| Rated operating capacity | Approx. 700-1,400 lb |
| Operating weight | Approx. 2,800-5,500 lb |
| Width | Approx. 36-60 in |
| Height | Approx. 71-77 in |
| Engine power | Approx. 23-50 hp |
| Auxiliary hydraulic flow | Approx. 10-17 gpm |
Where this class fits
Best for
- Tight-site dirt work
- Enclosed cab comfort
- All-day operation
- Mixed material handling
Watch-outs
- Width is typically too large for standard residential gates.
- Wheeled units mark soft turf more than tracked mini loaders.
Pricing and rental guidance
Buying
New small-frame skid steers are typically quoted well above mini loaders once a cab, heat and attachments are configured. Used inventory is deep, which makes condition and hours the deciding factors.
How pricing worksRenting
Widely available from national rental chains on daily, weekly and four-week rates.
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Common attachments for this class
General Purpose Bucket
The default tool on nearly every machine: moving soil, gravel, mulch and spoil, plus rough backfill and grading.
No auxiliary hydraulics required. Match bucket width to machine width so you are not dragging spoil off-line.
Pallet Forks
Turns the loader into a rough-terrain material mover for pallets, sod, block and bagged goods.
No auxiliary hydraulics. Load capacity is limited by machine rated operating capacity and by load center distance.
Auger
Drills post holes and footing holes far faster than hand digging, with bit sizes matched to the job.
Requires auxiliary hydraulics. Flow rating must match the drive head; rocky soil needs rock-specific teeth.
Grapple Bucket
Grabs irregular material — brush, limbs, demolition debris, rock — that a plain bucket cannot hold.
Requires auxiliary hydraulics. Check the weight of the attachment itself against the machine's capacity.
Hydraulic Breaker
Breaks concrete, asphalt and rock in tight areas where a full-size breaker cannot reach.
Requires correct hydraulic flow and pressure. Undersized carriers reduce productivity and stress the machine.
Frequently cross-shopped with CASE
CASE small-frame loaders are often shortlisted by buyers cross-shopping on price per pound of capacity. Buyers report straightforward maintenance access; as always, local dealer quality drives the real ownership experience.
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Other size classes
- Narrow Stand-On Mini Loader
Gate-width access for landscape and backyard work
- High-Capacity Stand-On Mini Loader
More lift and hydraulic flow, still trailer-friendly
- Compact Skid Steer Loader
Mainstream capacity for daily contractor work