Bobcat S650 vs S770: Comparing Used Skid Steer Loaders
If you're shopping for used Bobcat skid steer loaders for sale and you've narrowed it down to the S650 and the S770, you're looking at two of the most capable machines in Bobcat's mid-to-large lineup. Both hold their value well on the secondary market, both run proven powertrains, and both will handle the daily grind on a construction site or farm. But they're built for different workloads, and spending an extra $8,000-$12,000 on a used S770 only makes sense if your jobs actually demand what it brings to the table. Here's a straight comparison to help you decide which one deserves a spot on your trailer.
Quick Overview
| Specification | Bobcat S650 | Bobcat S770 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Bobcat 3.4L Turbo Diesel | Kubota V3800 3.8L Turbo Diesel |
| Horsepower | 74.3 hp | 92 hp |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,690 lb | 3,350 lb |
| Tipping Load | 5,380 lb | 6,700 lb |
| Operating Weight | 7,885 lb | 9,175 lb |
| Hydraulic Flow (Std) | 23 gpm | 23 gpm |
| Hydraulic Flow (High-Flow) | 30.5 gpm | 36.6 gpm |
| Fuel Tank | 27.2 gal | 32.8 gal |
| Max Travel Speed | 7.1 mph (12.3 mph 2-speed) | 7.1 mph (12.0 mph 2-speed) |
| Lift Path | Radius | Vertical |
| Max Lift Height | 120 in | 133 in |
| New MSRP Range | $55,000 - $65,000 | $75,000 - $85,000 |
| Used Price Range (1,500-3,000 hrs) | $25,000 - $40,000 | $35,000 - $52,000 |
Operating Capacity and Lifting Power
This is where the S770 pulls away from the S650, and it's the primary reason buyers step up to the larger frame.
The S650 carries a 2,690 lb rated operating capacity, which is 50% of its 5,380 lb tipping load. That's more than enough for standard bucket work, pallet forks with most material loads, and general grading. You can run a full day moving dirt, loading trucks, or clearing brush without feeling limited.
The S770 jumps to 3,350 lb rated capacity and a 6,700 lb tipping load. That extra 660 lb of rated capacity matters when you're running heavy attachments like concrete buckets, rock grapples, or full-size augers. The S770 also uses a vertical lift path with a max height of 133 inches compared to the S650's radius lift at 120 inches. If you're loading high-sided dump trucks or stacking pallets, the S770 reaches further and lifts higher without losing stability.
Bottom line: If your typical loads stay under 2,500 lb and you're not regularly loading over the side of a truck bed, the S650 has plenty of muscle. The S770 earns its keep when you routinely push past that threshold.
Engine Power and Performance
The S650 runs a Bobcat-branded 3.4L turbocharged diesel putting out 74.3 hp. It's a straightforward, reliable engine that most independent mechanics can service without Bobcat-specific diagnostic tools. Torque sits at roughly 195 ft-lbs, which delivers smooth power through the operating range.
The S770 steps up to a Kubota V3800 3.8L turbo diesel producing 92 hp and 229 ft-lbs of torque. That 24% horsepower advantage translates directly to faster cycle times under heavy loads and more authority when pushing into a stockpile or grading hard-packed material. The Kubota engine in the S770 is well-regarded for longevity, with many operators reporting 5,000+ hours without major overhaul when properly maintained.
On a used machine, pay attention to the engine hours in context. An S650 with 3,000 hours that's been well-maintained still has a lot of productive life ahead. An S770 with the same hours running heavy demolition work may be closer to needing injector or turbo attention. Always pull service records when they're available.
Cab Comfort and Operator Experience
Spending 8-10 hours in a skid steer cab is the reality for many operators, and both machines handle this differently.
The S650 uses Bobcat's standard cab platform with pressurized air sealing to keep dust out. You get an adjustable suspension seat, selectable joystick controls (SJC), and optional heat and AC. The cab is reasonably quiet, and the forward visibility is good. Side and rear visibility is average for the class. One thing operators consistently note: the S650 cab feels adequate but not spacious for taller operators over 6'2".
The S770 cab is physically larger, matching its bigger frame. Entry and exit are easier thanks to a wider door opening and lower threshold. The seat has more adjustment range, and the additional engine power means the hydraulic system maintains smooth response even when running multiple functions simultaneously. On used units equipped with the deluxe cab package, you'll typically find automatic climate control, a better sound package, and improved interior lighting. According to operator discussions on Boom & Bucket, the S770's cab is frequently cited as a key factor for operators who run machines all day.
If comfort is a priority and you're putting full shifts in the seat regularly, the S770's cab justifies some of the price premium on its own.
Fuel Efficiency and Operating Costs
Fuel is a real cost that adds up fast, especially if you're running a machine 40+ hours per week.
The S650 burns approximately 2.5-3.5 gallons per hour under typical mixed-duty operation. With its 27.2-gallon tank, you'll get a full working day before refueling in most scenarios. Annual fuel costs at moderate utilization (1,000 hours/year) run roughly $10,000-$12,000.
The S770 consumes 3.5-4.5 gallons per hour doing similar work, which is roughly 15-25% more than the S650. The larger 32.8-gallon tank offsets some of that difference at the pump, but your annual fuel bill will be $13,000-$16,000 at similar utilization. Maintenance costs also run slightly higher on the S770 due to larger oil capacity (12 quarts vs. the S650's 10 quarts) and bigger filters.
Over a 5-year ownership period, the S650's lower fuel and maintenance costs can save $12,000-$18,000 compared to the S770. That's significant when you factor in the lower acquisition cost as well.
Resale Value and Market Demand
Bobcat skid steers hold their value better than most competing brands on the used market, and both the S650 and S770 benefit from that reputation.
The S650 is one of the most popular mid-size skid steers on the secondary market. Demand stays strong because it hits the sweet spot for landscapers, small contractors, and farmers looking for a versatile machine. Expect to lose roughly 25-30% of purchase price in the first 500 hours, then depreciation flattens to around 5-8% per year after that. A well-maintained S650 with 2,000 hours typically commands $30,000-$38,000.
The S770 depreciates at a similar percentage rate, but the higher starting price means the dollar amounts are larger. Used S770s with comparable hours trade in the $38,000-$48,000 range. According to industry pricing data from Mobzel, machines equipped with deluxe cabs and high-flow hydraulics consistently bring a premium at resale. The S770 is slightly less liquid on the used market simply because fewer buyers need that much machine, so expect it to take a bit longer to sell when you're ready to move on.
Who Should Choose What
Choose the S650 if you:
- Run a landscaping crew, small excavation outfit, or farm operation
- Typical loads stay under 2,500 lb
- Want lower fuel and maintenance costs over time
- Need a machine that's easy to transport (lighter towing weight)
- Plan to run standard-flow attachments like buckets, forks, and grapples
- Value faster resale when it's time to trade up
Choose the S770 if you:
- Handle heavy materials regularly (concrete, wet soil, rock, demolition debris)
- Need vertical lift to load high-sided trucks or stack pallets overhead
- Run high-flow attachments like cold planers, mulchers, or large augers
- Have operators in the seat for full shifts who need a roomier cab
- Work sites where 92 hp makes the difference between one pass and two
Conclusion
The Bobcat S650 is the smarter buy for the majority of used skid steer shoppers. It delivers roughly 80-85% of the S770's capability at 65-75% of the total cost of ownership over five years. For landscaping, light construction, farm work, and general utility, the S650 does everything you need without the extra weight, fuel burn, and upfront cost.
The S770 earns its place when your work genuinely demands more lifting capacity, vertical reach, and sustained power. If you're running heavy attachments daily or loading trucks that sit above standard height, the S770 pays for itself through faster cycle times and fewer passes. Just make sure your workload actually requires it before you write the bigger check.
Whichever direction you go, buy the best-maintained unit you can find and verify the service history. On used Bobcat skid steer loaders for sale at this price point, the condition of the machine matters more than the model number on the side.