If you are facing the question of which brand of backhoe loader to buy, it is important to understand that there is no universal model suitable for all tasks and conditions. The choice of equipment must be based on a thorough analysis of operating conditions and job specifics, because a backhoe loader is a multifunctional machine, and only the right selection will ensure maximum efficiency.

Backhoe Loader: What It’s For

A backhoe loader is a universal machine that combines two types of construction equipment in one. This hybrid model is widely used in construction, public utilities, agriculture, and industrial facilities.
The primary purpose of a backhoe loader is to perform earthworks, dig trenches and pits, prepare sites, and also load and transport bulk materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and other cargo. Thanks to interchangeable attachments, the equipment can perform a wide range of tasks: loosening soil, leveling surfaces, lifting and moving loads, and working in confined spaces.
This kind of equipment is valued for its maneuverability and compact size, which allows it to work in urban environments and on small construction sites. Its versatility and cost-effectiveness make the backhoe loader an indispensable tool for companies needing a machine capable of switching between different types of tasks without requiring multiple units.

Which Backhoe Loader to Choose

Choosing a backhoe loader depends on many factors — the type and scope of work, site conditions, and budget. For the machine to work effectively and serve a long time, it’s essential to correctly evaluate key parameters and technical characteristics. Below are the main criteria to help you make the right choice and select a machine that fits your needs as closely as possible.

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Engine Features

The engine is the heart of any machine. Its power and reliability directly affect the equipment’s performance and efficiency. When choosing an engine, you should consider not only its technical specifications but also the intended operating conditions.

Key points to consider:

  • Engine Power — Higher power allows the backhoe loader to handle more demanding tasks such as digging dense soil or moving heavy loads. However, more powerful engines usually consume more fuel, so it’s important to balance performance and fuel economy.
  • Engine Type and Displacement — Most models come with 4- or 6-cylinder diesel engines. A larger displacement generally means higher durability and power reserve.
  • Environmental Standards — Modern engines comply with strict emissions standards (such as Stage IV or Tier 4), which is important when working in environmentally sensitive areas or large cities.
  • Cooling and Filtration Systems — A reliable cooling system prevents overheating during long operations, while quality filters ensure clean fuel and air, extending the engine’s lifespan.
  • Serviceability and Spare Parts Availability — Consider how easy the engine is to maintain and whether service centers are available so that repairs can be done quickly and affordably when needed.

For example, construction companies that frequently move equipment between job sites and work with dense or compact materials should opt for engines with high torque. It’s also important to assess the fuel system: how the backhoe loader performs heavily depends on fuel quality. For instance, Common Rail systems are more sensitive to fuel quality and less tolerant of Ukrainian operating conditions compared to classic mechanical injection systems (ТНВД).

Selecting the Proper Size Class

Choosing the correct size class of a backhoe loader is one of the key factors in ensuring the machine’s efficiency. This is especially important when the machine is part of a technological chain, where its productivity directly impacts the completion of subsequent work stages.

If the backhoe loader is too large for the tasks, it will idle, wasting time and resources, leading to inefficient use and higher costs. On the other hand, if the machine is too small, it won’t deliver the necessary performance, which will slow down the entire process and create a bottleneck.

The optimal size ensures balanced operation: the machine is used to its full capacity without downtime or overloads, positively impacting overall productivity and project profitability.

Lifting Capacity and Counterweight

Lifting capacity is one of the most critical parameters when choosing a backhoe loader because it determines what volume and weight of materials the machine can handle effectively. The counterweight also plays a vital role, as it ensures the machine’s stability and safety when lifting loads.

It’s important to understand how lifting capacity and counterweight balance each other to maintain safe and productive operation. A proper balance prevents the machine from tipping and provides optimal conditions for various tasks. An insufficient counterweight with high lifting loads can lead to accidents, while excessive counterweight can unnecessarily increase transportation and maintenance costs. When selecting a backhoe loader, always consider the actual tasks and materials you’ll be working with.

Digging Depth

Before choosing a backhoe loader, determine how deep the machine needs to dig. This parameter directly affects which model is most appropriate.

If the job requires deeper excavation, consider models with an extended telescopic backhoe arm. These arms may feature side-shift capability, which is especially useful when working near walls or in tight spaces. While such equipment is typically more expensive due to the complexity of the mechanisms, it significantly improves efficiency and ease of performing complex excavation tasks.

Off-Road Capability and Drive Type

When choosing a backhoe loader, it’s crucial to carefully analyze the working conditions in which the machine will be used.

If you expect to operate on rough terrain — such as soft, slippery, or uneven ground — it’s best to choose models with full 4×4 drive. This can be either permanent or switchable, depending on the machine’s design.

A limited-slip differential or 100% differential lock significantly increases traction, improving grip on surfaces and reducing the likelihood of wheel slippage. This not only ensures more stable operation in difficult conditions but also decreases tire wear, extending the service life of the machine. Such a drive system helps effectively handle challenging and unstable terrain, making the backhoe loader more productive and safe.

Model Types: Equal-Wheel and Unequal-Wheel Designs

What’s the difference between equal-wheel and unequal-wheel backhoe loaders? Machines may come with wheels of the same size on both axles (equal-wheel models) or different sizes (unequal-wheel models).

Equal-wheel backhoe loaders provide better traction and exert lower ground pressure thanks to the larger contact area between the wheels and the surface. They also have a higher loader boom reach, comparable to front-end loaders, which is important when stacking materials high. The front wheels in these models have greater load-bearing capacity, allowing for heavier loads. Another advantage is that all wheels are interchangeable, simplifying maintenance and reducing costs — especially useful when multiple machines operate side by side.

These machines typically feature three steering modes, including crab steering, which improves maneuverability and handling in confined areas. If crab steering isn’t necessary, it’s better to choose a simpler model without it — such machines are more reliable and cost-effective to maintain. Equal-wheel loaders are suitable for both hard and soft ground, for example, when digging foundations or frequently using the loader bucket.

Unequal-wheel models currently dominate the Ukrainian market. They are more affordable, offer better visibility for the operator, and have a tighter turning radius — crucial in urban environments and on firm surfaces. However, their smaller front wheels perform poorly on soft ground and may cause difficulties on loose terrain.

Configuration and Controls

When selecting a backhoe loader, think about how the machine will be used — primarily as a backhoe or as a loader. This will directly influence the choice of attachments and additional features that will make your work as efficient as possible.

As for the controls, machines may come with joysticks or traditional levers. It’s important to consider the operator’s preferences and comfort, as this directly affects the speed and accuracy of the work being performed.

It’s equally important to consider the climate of the region where the equipment will be used. A powerful heater and air conditioner in the cab ensure comfortable working conditions year-round, which significantly improves productivity and reduces operator fatigue during long shifts.

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Interchangeable Attachments

Additional attachments expand the machine’s capabilities and improve its return on investment. Plan ahead which tools may be needed for different types of jobs.

Example of Equipment — MST Backhoe Loaders

The Turkish brand Sanko Makina offers a lineup of six MST models weighing between 8,800 and 9,240 kg, equipped with Perkins engines rated at 101.3 hp and Carraro POWERSHIFT automatic transmissions. Some models are equal-wheel, others unequal-wheel, with large-diameter wheels for improved off-road performance. Equal-wheel models feature three steering modes, including crab steering.

The 4-in-1 universal bucket (1.2 m³) can be equipped with a damping system. Options include a telescopic dipper stick and side-shift backhoe arm. The cab is safety-certified and includes air conditioning, sound insulation, an adjustable seat, and a steering column.

According to user reviews, MST machines are not premium class, but they significantly outperform Ukrainian and Belarusian equivalents, as well as budget brands, due to better performance, reliability, and reasonable maintenance costs. When comparing backhoe loader price-to-quality ratio, MST occupies a strong niche: you get a dependable machine at a fair price without paying extra for branding. That’s why they are increasingly chosen both for rental and for permanent use in construction and municipal services.

Hydraulic System — A Key Component

The hydraulic system is one of the most critical elements of a backhoe loader, directly impacting performance, smooth operation, and fuel efficiency. Today, there are two main types: open-center and closed-center systems — each with its own characteristics and applications.

An open-center system is mechanically simple and effective for performing individual hydraulic operations. Its advantages include affordable components, quick response, and ease of maintenance. However, it’s less efficient when performing multiple functions simultaneously, as fluid flow is fixed and tied to engine RPM. These systems typically use gear pumps — they are cheaper, more tolerant of contamination, and warm up faster, making them ideal for general-purpose tasks without heavy loads.

In contrast, a closed-center system is a more advanced, high-tech solution, commonly found on machines requiring precision and multifunctionality. Fluid flow is regulated based on demand, reducing heat generation and improving fuel efficiency. This system maintains high flow even at low RPMs, which is especially important when working near people — the engine runs more quietly, and the operator can interact with the team more safely. These systems are usually equipped with variable displacement axial-piston pumps, allowing more flexible power management and extending component life.

If the machine is intended for active use with the loader bucket and frequent travel, a closed-center system is the best choice. For general tasks with moderate demand, a simpler and reliable open-center system will suffice. The decision largely depends on your priorities — whether that’s cost, efficiency, or ease of service.

Which Backhoe Loader to Choose?

The choice of equipment depends on the tasks, working conditions, and available budget — so the answer to “what is the best backhoe loader” will differ for each case. It’s important to consider the hydraulic system type, transmission, handling, and service availability — because it’s the combination of these factors that truly determines how effective a machine will be.