9 best mini tractors: review of models and characteristics

The development of small farms and gardens leads to an increase in demand for mini tractors. The price range on the agricultural machinery market starts from several hundred thousand to a million rubles. The best mini tractor is not the one that is more expensive, but the one that is worth the cost.

Not everyone understands brands of agricultural equipment and their quality. This has led to the appearance of unscrupulous sellers on the market who, under the guise of high-quality equipment, sell counterfeits. From year to year, tractors are improved, engines in old models are replaced, and main components are updated. Market trends change, so the rating of mini tractors changes every year.

What you need to know so as not to make a mistake in choosing a mini tractor

Chinese industry is actively developing; ten years ago no one knew about the Chinese automobile industry, but now Chinese cars are already competing with global brands. In China, they have long borrowed technology from the best manufacturers (Kubota, New Holland, Branson, TYM, MTZ), and now, as in other areas, they produce tractors of no worse quality. Answering the question “recommend a good mini tractor”, it’s time to talk honestly and without hesitation about Chinese brands.

Mini tractors use manual transmissions; the only difference is in the number of speeds. Usually these are three or four gears, which are combined with high or low speed, which multiplies the number of speeds by two or three times.

The track must be a multiple of the row spacing. In order to work with 60 cm wide rows, the distance between the front wheels must be 120 cm, and so on. Measure the width of your garden beds, or determine how wide you need them. And then proceed to selecting a car model based on the track size. The best mini tractors are made with the widest possible track adjustment. The track size is also affected by the width of the wheels themselves, since it is measured along the axes of the wheel rims. With wider wheels, the track size is larger.

The rear gearbox is the place where attachments are mounted on the mini tractor. The semi-professional gearbox consists of one mounting point, and the professional gearbox consists of three, just like large tractors. Plows, hillers and other mounted tools are specially made single-point and three-point.

The hydraulic distributor must have a floating mode.

• If the tractor is equipped with a distributor with one hydraulic outlet, you can work with only one implement at a time (plow, hiller, etc.), and when changing equipment from rear to front, you will need to reconnect the hoses.
• If a dual-line distributor is installed, then you can either use two equipment at the same time, or use complex equipment (auger snow blower, rotary blade, etc.).
• A hydraulic distributor with three lines will allow you to simultaneously use complex equipment together with other attachments, or operate a front-end jaw loader, mini-excavator, etc.

What is a “mini tractor” and what are its differences from the classic one?

The power of the mini tractor is enough for a medium-sized garden or garden; it is also ideal for farms and small private farms.
The difference is not only in size, but primarily in the traction class. Mini tractors are inferior to traditional models in weight and, accordingly, power. Therefore, their cost is significantly lower, and they also consume less fuel and have less expensive parts.

With the help of a mini tractor you can:

• Remove snow, construction debris, branches, leaves, etc.
• Uproot stumps.
• Plow the ground.
• Clear outbuildings.
• Correct the road level.

• Patch the asphalt.
• Cover the lawn.
• Mow the lawn.
• Irrigate the land.
• Apply de-icing agents or fertilizers.
• And much more.

Top best models

Mini tractors are divided into several types based on engine power. The basic machine is a tractor with an engine power of up to 16 hp. This unit is designed for agricultural work on a small plot or cottage. Mini tractors with power up to 20 hp. are already capable of performing long periods of work in fields and farms. These machines are more stable and can perform not only agricultural work, but also partially municipal work, which is associated with snow removal. Machines with engine power from 25 hp. - these are tractors for farms, for which the solution to a specific task already depends on the attachments, and not on engine power. When choosing, focus on the tasks that must be solved using technology.

Fighter T15

The Fighter T15 mini-tractor is quite small in size, but has many functions, as well as the ability to install attachments. Such devices can be all kinds of seeders, plows, lawn mowers and other auxiliary devices for cultivating the site. Power is 15 hp. and is quite suitable for working on areas up to 3 hectares.

A mini-tractor will do an excellent job with basic tasks, for example, dispersing various crops and harvesting them later. The only omission is the lack of a canopy. In this regard, the operation of the tractor is limited by weather conditions and the time of year in general.

The T15 fighter is compact and has dimensions of 220x115x140 cm. The weight of the equipment is 468 kg. The assembly and packaging will please you, since all the parts of this model are made of fairly high-quality materials. The gearbox has 4 speeds: 3 forward and 1 reverse. The price for a mini-tractor of this model is quite reasonable.

Up to 16 hp

Tractors of this class are equipped with single-cylinder diesel engines with power up to 16 hp. The technique works continuously for up to 60 minutes, then it needs a break. On a standard summer cottage where you need to cultivate the soil, transport loads and remove snow, you need a tractor from 12 to 16 hp. These are basic machines that are not very powerful, but they do an excellent job with basic tasks.

Fighter T-15

The Fighter minitractor is a budget equipment that is produced in China. The unit is designed for work in the country and small garden plots. The tractor has small dimensions: length - 241 cm, width - 120 cm, handlebar height - 119 cm, and weight - 470 kg. The machine works quietly in a small area, maneuvering between trees.

The Fighter is equipped with a single-cylinder diesel engine XT-15 with a power of 15 hp. The tractor is driven by a belt drive with a pair of V-belts. In the event of an overload, the belt takes the blow, not the engine. The battery does not provide a full charge, so the household must have a starting charger.

Mechanical gearbox without planetary gear, with high and low gears - (3+ 1)x2. The Fighter T-15 is a rear-wheel drive tractor with a differential lock. The rear wheels of the car are 16 inches, and the front wheels are 10 inches. The track is adjustable from 110 to 140 cm in order to maintain row spacing when planting.

Attachments are connected to a single-point attachment. The tractor is equipped with a single-line hydraulic system with a floating position, in which the attached equipment sinks under its own weight. Equipment for plowing the land, sowing and harvesting, mowing grass and removing snow is connected to the minitractor. The load capacity of the single-point hitch system is 120 kg.

Advantages of Fighter T-15:

• Low cost;
• Maneuverability;
• Multifunctionality.

Disadvantages of Fighter T-15:

• The generator does not provide a full charge for the battery;
• Gearbox without planetary gear.

Cost - from 129,900 ₽.

Scout T-15

SCOUT mini tractors are produced in China, but assembled in Russia. Scout T-15 is the base model in the tractor line. The car has small dimensions: length - 240 cm, width - 135 cm, handlebar height - 109 cm, and weight - 540 kg. In the basic configuration, the tractor is equipped with weights weighing 116 kg and a reinforced frame, which is produced in St. Petersburg.

The mini tractor is equipped with a single-cylinder diesel engine R195-T with a maximum power of 14.85 hp. The design involves a belt drive from the engine to the clutch mechanism. The belt takes on possible overloads, protecting the engine from deformation. The engine is started using an electric starter.

Gearbox with planetary mechanism and forced locking of the rear axle. Number of gears - (3+ 1)x2. Gear shifting occurs using a double-disc single-stage dry clutch. The rear wheels of the tractor are 16 inches, and the front wheels are 10 inches. In winter, snow chains are installed on the rear wheels to prevent the mini tractor from slipping. The machine's track is adjustable from 110 to 140 cm. Adjustment is necessary so that the tractor can pass between the beds of planted crops.

Attachments are connected to a single-point rear hitch and power take-off shaft. The Scout is equipped with a single-line hydraulic system with 4 modes, including a floating position, in which the attachment sinks under its own weight. The minitractor aggregates: a rototiller, a plow, a mower, a seeder, a snow blade, etc. The carrying capacity of the mounted system is 190 kg.

Scout T-15 is a full-fledged vehicle with low and high beam headlights, turn signals and dimensions, as well as a dashboard with temperature, coolant and ammeter indicators. In 2021, the Scout line of tractors passed traction and dynamic tests at the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the Agricultural University of St. Petersburg.

Advantages of Scout T-15:

• Reinforced frame;
• The tractor has passed traction and dynamic tests;
• Wide selection of attachments.

Disadvantages of Scout T-15:

• No engine hour sensor;
• Single-line hydraulic system.

Cost - 159,900 ₽.

MTZ Belarus 132N

The Minsk Tractor Plant produces not only large tractors, but also low-power mini tractors. The first model MTZ 132N came off the assembly line in 1992; before it there were two modifications of mini tractors that are no longer produced. The length of the car is 250 cm, the width is 100 cm, and the height along the roll bar is 200 cm.

The car is equipped with a four-stroke single-cylinder gasoline engine Honda GX390 with a power of 13 hp. This engine is often used on motorized equipment. The engine runs on AI-92 gasoline. Fuel with a lower octane rating may damage the fuel filter. The engine is started using an electric starter.

Manual gearbox with four forward and three reverse speeds. Gear shifting occurs using toothed clutches. A closed-type cross-axle differential lock helps reduce the turning radius of the machine. Front and rear tires are the same size - 5.9-13. Machine weight - 532 kg.

The attachments are connected to a three-point system, and the active equipment is connected to the hydraulic system and to the dependent single-speed power take-off shaft - 1200 rpm. A plow, hiller, hay mower, utility blade, snow blower, etc. are connected to the tractor.

Advantages of MTZ Belarus 132N:

• Three-point hitch system;
• Japanese engine;
• Four-wheel drive.

Disadvantages of MTZ Belarus 132N:

• Small wheels;
• In hot weather, the hydraulic oil overheats.

Cost - from 240,000 ₽.

The best garden tractors

Garden tractors are called riders. This is a compact piece of equipment that can also be attached to attachments, but they are often located at the front or between the chassis. Garden tractors have smaller wheels, so they can only be used on dirt paths and lawns. But riders have rotating axles not only front, but also rear, which gives a smaller turning radius and increased maneuverability. Often the tractor is already equipped with a lawn mower and grass catcher.

MasterYard CR1838

Rating: 4.9

In first place in this rating category is a garden tractor from a Czech company. The model is equipped with a Briggs&Stratton engine, which is extremely reliable. The power plant produces 17.5 hp. The single-cylinder engine receives fuel from a tank holding 7.5 liters. Buyers note in reviews the smooth operation of the variator, which has no shocks when switching. Setting the “forward”, “neutral” and “backward” modes is located on the right wing. The hydrostatic transmission is controlled only by pressing the pedal. The minitractor is equipped with a lawn mower with a cutting width of 92 cm. Two blades rotate in it, ensuring quick mowing of vegetation. Special equipment moves on equivalent wheels, the hubs of which have bearings. The kit comes with a 200 liter rear grass catcher.

Our experts included the product in the rating because it has cruise control. The garden tractor can be set to the desired speed and directions, and the system itself will maintain them. This relieves the operator of the workload and makes it easier to carry out processes in a large area.

Advantages

• wide comfortable driver's seat;
• Beautiful design;
• built-in lawnmower with mid-discharge;
• LED headlight illumination increases safety when working in a crowded place;
• convenient variator link on the right, and not between the legs.

Flaws

• a rotary snow blower cannot be attached;
• rear-wheel drive only;
• high price;
• To throw the grass back you need to purchase an additional kit.

Husqvarna R 112C5 (2014)

Rating: 4.8

The second position in the garden mini tractor rating category is given to the American model R 112C5, released in 2014. Special equipment is still successfully sold and is designed for small green areas of up to 1 hectare. The minitractor has increased maneuverability due to the swivel rear wheels and the worm connection of the two parts of the body. Customer reviews like this because it makes it easy to mow grass around bushes and garden features. The “heart” of the rider is a single-cylinder engine with a volume of 344 cm³, operating on a four-stroke circuit. It produces 12.5 hp. The driver has excellent visibility to the front because the combustion engine is located in the rear. The lawn mower is equipped with mowing modes with height adjustment and mulching.

Experts included a mini-tractor for garden care in the rating because its deck with knives is placed as close to the nose as possible. The weight of the engine and operator is supported on a four-chassis platform, and the mower is suspended from a retractable frame with two additional support wheels. The latter are made of rubber and do not damage curbs or statues, and also provide a soft collision with obstacles.

Advantages

• wide operator's chair;
• high maneuverability;
• electric starter;
• cutting height adjustment from 25 to 70 mm;
• low noise level.

Flaws

• suitable for caring for a small area;
• high price;
• The deck lowering handle is far from the driver's seat.

STIGA Estate 5102 H

Rating: 4.7

A mini tractor from a Swedish brand entered the top three of our ratings in the garden equipment category. The unit is equipped with an Intek 5210 AVS motor from Briggs & Stratton. The power plant produces 14.1 hp. The transmission is implemented in the form of rear-wheel drive and is controlled hydrostatically from the pedal. There is a grass catcher at the back that collects the grass from the mower. The garden tractor supports the mulching function. To quickly clean the cutting mechanism from debris, there is a fitting for connecting a water hose. To set the cutting height there is a regulator accessible from the operator's seat. The adjustment range is 25-80 mm. The gas tank is located under the hood, so nothing sticks out from the outside. Owners, judging by the reviews, like the bright LED headlights, which allow them to work at any time of the day.

The garden tractor is deservedly included in the rating due to its stylish design. Narrow headlights and a high radiator grille, as well as a streamlined body, make it look like an expensive foreign car. Such a garden mini tractor will look attractive on the territory of a sanatorium or hotel with an adjacent park. The special equipment also surpasses other private manufacturers in the rating with a mowing width in one pass of 102 cm.

Advantages

• there is a mulching function;
• automatic grass ejection back;
• grass catcher included;
• durable engine.

Flaws

• high price;
• inconvenient to climb to the top;
• If you carelessly collide with an obstacle, you can damage the plastic casing.

MTD Smart RF 125

Rating: 4.6

The rating is completed by a garden tractor from the American MTD. It is suitable for an area of ​​1500 m² and difficult terrain. The special equipment is equipped with an 8.4 hp motor. The operator has a comfortable seat with a comfortable position thanks to the open frame. The transmission here is fully automatic and has smooth shifting. The lawn mower has a width of 96 cm and is equipped with a side deflector for ejection. Torque is transmitted to the rear wheels. The mini tractor weighs only 150 kg. The deck has its own two support wheels, which increase the accuracy of cutting height adjustment and prevent the blades from cutting into the ground. The front axle of the tractor is designed with a pendulum suspension, so the mower cuts smoothly even on difficult terrain. Users note in their reviews a thoughtful tread pattern that does not damage the lawn.

In our opinion, a garden tractor should be in the ranking due to its compactness. Its dimensions - 1700x1300x1000 mm - are among the smallest, so the name Smart suits it very well. The turning radius of the equipment is only 46 cm. Owners of spacious gas spaces in front of the cottage should pay attention to the product.

Advantages

• working width per pass - 96 cm;
• throwing grass to the side through the side deflector;
• automatic transmission;
• Adjustable cutting height from 30 to 95 mm.

Flaws

• grass catcher must be purchased separately;
• does not cut grass below 30 mm;
• one headlight.

Up to 20 hp

For agricultural and utility work on personal plots, choose equipment with a power of up to 20 hp. The vehicles will be equipped with an 18 hp diesel engine. The large mass of the machine will allow you to easily plow large areas of land, transport loads in a trailer and remove snow. If you need a multifunctional tractor, then choose equipment of this class.

Scout T-18

In 2021, all components and gearboxes on SCOUT mini tractors have been redesigned. In the new generation of tractors, the gearbox has become tactilely responsive, which simplifies long-term agricultural work. Dimensions of the car: length - 259 cm, width - 135 cm, and height at the steering wheel - 120 cm.

The tractor is equipped with a water-cooled single-cylinder diesel engine ZS1100-T. Maximum engine power is 17.65 hp. The motor is easy to operate, and maintenance does not require special knowledge. To change the oil or clean the filters, you only need consumables, an instruction manual and a wrench.

The internal parts of the gearbox are designed for variable loads, and the gearbox itself is (3+ 1)x2. The planetary differential enhances control over the vehicle's handling, and the rear axle locking increases cross-country ability. The front wheels are 6.00″-12″ and the rear wheels are 9.5″-16″. This is the optimal size to ensure reliable traction of the machine to the ground. The structural weight of the tractor is 670 kg. The mass of the unit is evenly distributed throughout the machine in order to reduce slipping and improve controllability, and it also reduces vibration from the engine so that the driver can operate the tractor more comfortably.

All Scout models are equipped with a single-point mechanism for connecting attachments. The load capacity of the mechanism is 190 kg. The machine aggregates the entire range of single-point attachments. The movement from the engine to the attachment is transmitted using a gear power take-off shaft. To connect hydraulically driven equipment, such as a front loader, a two-position hydraulic valve is installed on the tractor.

Advantages of Scout T-18:

• Large weight + weights included;
• Two-position hydraulic valve;
• Multifunctional.

Disadvantages of Scout T-18:

• To use a potato digger, you need an offset plate;
• The generator power is not enough to charge the battery.

Cost - 189,900 ₽.

Rustrak P18

sells Chinese-made equipment. One of the main models is the Rustrak R18 minitractor. The dimensions of the unit are almost the same as those of other machines in this category: length - 240 cm, width -135 cm, and height at the steering wheel - 109 cm. The machine is intended for basic agricultural and municipal work.

The tractor is equipped with a Chinese four-stroke diesel engine R18ND with a power of 18 hp. Water type motor cooling. This engine is often used on budget motorized vehicles produced in China. The engine requires careful and careful handling to prevent damage. The volume of the fuel tank is 5.5 liters. The engine is started using an electric starter.

The gearbox consists of 6 forward and two reverse speeds. Combined gearbox with rear axle locking function. The track is adjustable in the range from 93 to 140 cm. The front wheel sizes are 6.0-12, and the rear wheels are 7.5-16. Tractor weight - 500 kg.

Attachments are connected to a single-point system and a two-line hydraulic distributor. The tractor aggregates the main equipment for plowing and hilling the land, mowing grass and removing snow.

Advantages of Rustrak P18:

• Low price;
• Powerful engine;
• Two-line hydraulic distributor.

Disadvantages of Rustrak P18:

• Budget build;
• Little weight.

Cost - from 167,000 ₽.

Uralets 180

Minitractors "Uralets" are Chinese-Russian equipment. Production is established in China, but the subassembly is located in Russia. The Uralets 180 model has been known on the market since 1991, but the old models are radically different from those currently in production. The length of the machine is 253 cm, the width is 120 cm, and the height along the exhaust pipe is 175 cm. The tractor is suitable for performing agricultural and municipal work on farms and for personal use.

The machine is equipped with a four-stroke diesel engine TY-290 with water cooling with a power of 18 hp. The engine is started by an electric starter. The tractor has rear-wheel drive. Machine weight - 940 kg. Thanks to its heavy weight, the machine operates confidently on rough terrain.

Mechanical gearbox - (3+1)x2. Low and high gears allow you to select a specific speed for work. The front wheels are 4.00″ - 14″ and the rear wheels are 7.50″ - 20″.

The attachment is connected to a three-point system, with a maximum lifting capacity of 240 kg. The movement from the engine to the active equipment is transmitted using a power take-off shaft, which rotates at a speed of 540 rpm. Structurally, a utility blade and a front loader cannot be connected to the front of the tractor.

Advantages of Uralets 180:

• Large mass;
• Powerful engine;
• PTO 540 rpm.

Disadvantages of Uralets 180:

• Some equipment is not aggregated;
• Plastic body.

Cost - from 250,000 ₽.

Types of mini tractors

A modern mini-tractor for a summer residence is a multifunctional device that is ideal for plowing and harrowing the surface layer of the earth. It is also suitable for improving the lawn, mowing grass, irrigating a utility area, digging holes for planting seedlings, etc. It can also be used to transport goods between farms and clear snow. Functionally, the following minitractors are distinguished:

• Rider. It is a small-sized special equipment that is adapted for mowing grass. The disadvantage is the meager set of operational functions.
• Garden. Compared to the rider, he is a real professional in gardening with a powerful body. Can replace a walk-behind tractor, cultivator, forage harvester, frigate, snow blower and other technical equipment. Such a mini tractor can be equipped with a trolley, bucket, rake and other equipment.

Garden mini tractor
Mini tractors are classified into several types and according to the type of chassis. The following units are distinguished:

• Crawler. Adapts to any surface and has good maneuverability on uneven country roads. Ideal for rural areas.
• Wheeled. Moves faster and has convenient controls. Suitable for farms with not too bad roads.

The type of fuel being poured is another sign by which mini tractors can be classified. The following units are distinguished:

• Gasoline. Low noise, adapted to any season of the year. They are more profitable in terms of repairs. The only negative is the high fuel consumption, which only becomes more expensive. The traction potential of a gasoline mini tractor prevails over a diesel one - up to 18 liters. With.
• Diesel. These agricultural machines are more economical in consumption and have good wear-resistant qualities. The disadvantage is a strong hum, expensive spare parts and repair work. Their power reaches 12 hp. With.

Crawler tractor
Mini tractors also differ in the type of drive. There are three types of units:

• Rear wheel drive. Drive only to the rear wheels.
• Front wheel drive. Driving front wheels.
• All-wheel drive. Due to the controllability of all 4 wheels at the same time, high maneuverability is ensured.

This technique also differs in traction force. Classification according to this criterion:

• heavy models from 13 to 40 kW;
• average from 5 to 13 kW;
• light up to 5 kW.

Up to 25 hp

Owners of personal plots are inclined to believe that a farmer needs a 24 hp tractor. It does the same job as older 35 hp models, albeit a little slower, but its price is noticeably lower. For other areas you will need a more powerful mini tractor. 24 horsepower will cope with plowing, cultivating, and spraying the soil. An undoubted advantage will be that tractors with such power can be equipped with a front loader for working with bulk materials.

Scout T-25

The T-25 minitractor is the flagship in the Scout model range. The machine is used to perform agricultural and municipal tasks: plowing, hilling, haymaking, snow removal, etc. The tractor copes well with utility work when you need to transport loads or remove snow with a blade. The dimensions of the tractor are compact, but larger than those of the T-15 and T-18 models. Length - 259 cm, width - 125 cm, and height along the muffler - 186 cm. The structural weight of the unit is 790 kg.

The machine is equipped with a four-stroke diesel engine ZS1115-T with a power of 20 hp. with water cooling system. The fuel tank capacity is 9 liters. The engine starts using an electric starter even at sub-zero temperatures. The diesel engine is quiet, and the reinforced frame absorbs vibration from the engine.

Gearbox with six forward and two reverse speeds, shifting occurs using a double-disc single-stage clutch. Given its dimensions, the tractor copes well with driving on rough terrain; the differential lock adds additional maneuverability. The car's ground clearance is 30 cm, which is enough to drive on snow or a plowed field. Like all mini tractors, the unit has rear-wheel drive. The tractor's track width is adjustable in the range from 110 cm to 145 cm. A telescopic mechanism is responsible for moving the front wheels, and hubs are responsible for the rear wheels. The adjustable track allows you to increase the stability of the mini tractor and cultivate the soil wider than the movement of the wheels. The size of the rear wheels is 7.50″ - 20″, and the front wheels are 6.00″ - 12″.

Attachments are connected to a single-point mounting mechanism. The tractor is equipped with a hydraulic distributor with four positions, with which the machine aggregates the entire line of Scout attachments, which is more than 50 positions. In addition, an auger snow blower is connected to the unit, with which you can quickly clear a large area of ​​snow. The hydraulic distributor is designed in such a way that two attachments can be used simultaneously, one at the rear and one at the front. The most popular equipment for a minitractor is a rotary cutter; on the Scout T-25, the cultivation width with a rotary cutter is 140 cm.

The minitractor is equipped with a lighting system, which includes high and low beam headlights, turn signals and side lights. The instrument panel displays indicators: voltmeter, engine hours, fluid temperature in the cooling system and engine oil pressure.

Advantages of Scout T-25:

• Aggregates the entire line of SCOUT equipment;
• Powerful and reliable engine;
• Simple and clear design.

Disadvantages of Scout T-25:

• Single-point equipment fastening system;
• Rear drive.

Cost - from 199,000 ₽.

Xingtai 224

Xingtai mini tractors are manufactured in Xingtai, Hebei Province, China. The equipment has been known on the Russian market since the early 90s. Xingtai tractors are the majority of all motorized Chinese equipment that is supplied to the Russian Federation. Manufacturers brand their cars under different names, but all equipment is made in China.

The Xingtai XT-224 model is equipped with a TY295 four-stroke diesel engine with a power of 22 hp. The engine is started using an electric starter. The length of the car is 270 cm, the width is 126 cm, and the height at the steering wheel is 140 cm. The weight of the unit is 1050 kg, such a large weight due to the powerful diesel engine.

The tractor is all-wheel drive. Gearbox with blocking of the planetary mechanism of the rear axle. Number of gears: (3+ 1)x2. Gears are shifted using a single-plate, single-stage dry clutch with constant mesh. The mini tractor is equipped with power steering, which significantly improves control. The machine is equipped with tractor tires, the size of the rear wheels is 9.50″ - 20″, the front wheels are 6.00″ - 14″. The track on the car is 100 cm, the width is not adjustable.

The attachments are connected to a three-point hitch system, a power take-off shaft and a hydraulic distributor. The tractor aggregates most agricultural equipment: plow, harrow, mower, seeder, milling cutter, rake; and utility equipment: blade, front loader, backhoe, brush and drill. You can install two equipment on a mini tractor at the same time. The load capacity of the rear linkage system is 360 kg.

Advantages of Xingtai 224:

• Four-wheel drive;
• Multifunctionality;
• Power steering.

Disadvantages of Xingtai 224:

• The track is not suitable for working with potatoes;
• Low lifting capacity of the rear linkage.

Cost - 333,900 ₽.

Dongfeng 244C

The Chinese plant DongFeng makes tractors from its own components, and makes its own cabs and attachments. 60% of the plant's products are produced for China's own needs. The rest are export versions of mini tractors. Dong Feng tractors are suitable for use in construction; the plant makes excavators and loaders for them, adapted for its own machines. The Dongfeng 244C model is equipped with a sealed cabin, which allows you to work comfortably at sub-zero temperatures. The machine is 318 cm long, 142 cm wide, and 240 cm high.

The machine is equipped with a three-cylinder KM385BT engine with a power of 24 hp. The motor is cooled by circulating fluid. The cooling system is designed in such a way that it is almost impossible to overheat the engine. Before entering the engine, the fuel goes through two stages of purification. The volume of the fuel tank is 28 liters. The engine is started using an electric starter.

The Dong Feng is an all-wheel drive vehicle with a differential lock. All-wheel drive is switchable. Gearbox - (4+1)x2. The minitractor is equipped with power steering, which makes it easier to turn the steering wheel. The track is adjustable in the range from 120 to 140 cm. The tractor is equipped with all-terrain tires that make it easier to move over rough terrain.

Attachments are connected to a three-point mechanism and a two-speed power take-off shaft. Independent PTO with speeds of 540 and 730 rpm. Most attachments operate at 540 rpm. The tractor is equipped with two hydraulic pumps. One for the power steering and the other for the hydraulic system. The minitractor aggregates agricultural and mounted equipment, including a front loader. The load capacity of the rear linkage is 450 kg.

Advantages of Dongfeng 244C:

• Powerful and reliable engine;
• Well-thought-out equipment connection system;
• Sealed cabin.

Disadvantages of Dongfeng 244C:

• Single disc clutch;
• No reverse.

Cost - 649,900 ₽.

How to choose?

It is recommended to choose a mini tractor based on the tasks for which you need it:

• If you need a mini tractor for clearing snow on your property in winter, preference should be given to models with attachments. In this case, the minitractor must be supplemented with a snow blower and a blade. The tractor itself should have a power of about 12-16 horsepower.
• If you need a small tractor for summer tasks - transporting gravel, digging trenches, cutting grass, you should give preference to twenty powerful tractors. They do an excellent job of planting potatoes, hilling and subsequent harvesting.
• But if you plan to use the unit for cultivation, irrigation or plowing, you should choose models with more power (about 24 horsepower). Three-cylinder models are suitable for growing vegetable crops such as potatoes or corn.

Buying a mini tractor

In any case, purchasing a mini tractor will be much more profitable than purchasing a traditional full-size model.
The cost of the model consists of a number of characteristics - engine power, weight, type of attachment, the presence or absence of hydraulics.

When selecting this unit, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Dimensions and weight of the model
• Mini tractor equipment
• Build quality
• Economical fuel indicator

• Performance
• Existence of service centers
• Availability of necessary spare parts
• Service cost
• Ease of use

Expert opinion

Kulikov Vladimir Sergeevich

It is recommended to immediately select the most multifunctional device that will be useful both for primary tasks and for subsequent ones.

Dimensions

Its maneuverability and power depend on the dimensions of the tractor. Therefore, when selecting, it is necessary to proceed from the required functions of garden equipment. For constant work in large areas (fields, plantations), you should choose models with a power of 25 horsepower or more. They make it easy to remove snow from the area, get rid of debris and leaves, dig trenches, create embankments and perform any other complex gardening operations.

The best options are those with small dimensions and high performance. They fit perfectly into the openings between houses, do not touch the crowns of trees and shrubs, and do not damage the lawn. Compact mini tractors for the dacha fit in the garage or are stored under a canopy. In addition, such models can be easily deployed even in small areas.

Weight

If equipment is purchased for freight transportation or landscaping of a garden or lawn, it is recommended to purchase options weighing less than one ton. You should focus on the proportion of mass to engine power, 1 horsepower per 40 kg of weight.

Expert opinion

Kulikov Vladimir Sergeevich

Lightweight models can easily drive between bushes and trees and do not get stuck in snow, loose and wet soil.

Transmission

When selecting a transmission, you should also take into account the tasks required to be performed. Thus, for improving the garden or vegetable garden, a manual model is suitable, but if you need to clear snow or mow the lawn, prefer an automatic one.

Equipment

The versatility of mini tractors for dachas primarily depends on the configuration, so when purchasing it is worth checking what exactly is included in the kit.
It is advisable that the tractor be equipped with parts of the same brand as the device itself. And the presence of a power take-off shaft allows you to connect a lawn mower, hiller, and snow removal equipment to the tractor. The heated cabin allows you to use the tractor with great comfort in winter, and the lighting makes it possible to work even at night.

conclusions

When choosing a mini tractor, you should pay attention not only to the technical characteristics of the machine, but also to the conditions of its future work: the size of the plot, the type of soil, what additional tasks the unit will have. You need to weigh all the requirements for the car and, based on them, select a mini tractor based on power. Another important factor is that attachments for a single-point attachment cost several times less than for a three-point attachment. It will not be possible to connect most attachments to a three-point with a small carrying capacity; take this factor into account when you are ready to buy yourself a reliability assistant.

MasterYard M244 4WD (with sun protection)

In fifth place is the best mini tractor for the village from the MasterYard brand. The manufacturer has long been known to domestic farmers. It is under this brand that high-quality and reliable mini tractors for all occasions are produced. The cost of this device is 519,990 rubles. The device has a spacious 25-liter fuel tank: this amount of fuel is enough for many hours of continuous operation. The model is illuminated using dimensions located around the entire perimeter of the body and two powerful headlights. The battery is capable of producing 12V. The power unit is a diesel 4-stroke three-cylinder engine. The engine capacity is 1532 cc. Maximum power 24 hp, or 17.65 kW. A water cooling system, which is more efficient than an air one, is responsible for heat removal. The vehicle is equipped with an electric starter for easy starting.

The minitractor has all-wheel drive and a stepped gearbox with 5 speeds, four forward, one reverse. The turning radius is 260 cm and the maximum forward speed is 22.4 km/h. The package includes power steering and seat adjustment. The instrument panel informs you about the amount of fuel in the tank and the battery charge. When assembled, the minitractor weighs 1308 kg, which cannot be called light.

• three-point type of attachment attachment;
• two speeds of PTO operation;
• there is a hydraulic outlet;
• can be used with a trailer;
• power steering;
• you can install a cultivator;
• sun visor.

• quite high price;
• expensive attachments and maintenance;

Prices for MasterYard M244 4WD (with sun protection):

Premieres from Rostselmash

A review of new 2021 products on the tractor market would be incomplete without mentioning this flagship of the domestic agricultural machinery industry. Over the past year, the company’s lineup has been expanded with two new models: the wheeled RSM 1370 and the tracked RSM 3000 DeltaTrack. Both developments were presented to the public at the AGROSALON-2020 exhibition.

The RSM 1370 is a tractor of the 6th traction class, which is equipped with an ultra-reliable 6-cylinder Cummins QSL diesel engine, which produces up to 400 “horses” with a volume of 8.9 liters. They are processed by Powershift transmission (16x9 speeds). The new product has already received good reviews from market experts, but it won’t be possible to test it in action until next year – the start of mass production is planned for 2022.

But the 4-track articulated tractor RSM 3000 DeltaTrack has already been put into production. The series includes 3 models with engines ranging from 460 to 620 hp. It is noteworthy that the flagship 620-horsepower version is the most powerful domestic crawler tractor.

Our verdict

An inexpensive, full-fledged factory mini-tractor without attachments will cost the site owner about 7,000 rubles. However, those who plan to purchase such equipment and drive it on public roads must obtain a license to drive a tractor, register the car, undergo a technical inspection and take out insurance.

In an attempt to save money, you can buy a walk-behind tractor with an adapter. It will cost much less, up to 3000-4000 rubles, to operate such a device you do not need “rights” and registration, but it will be inferior to the tractor in terms of power.

As for homemade tractors, there are many of them on private advertisement sites, they are cheaper than factory tractors, some of them are made of very high quality, but in order to avoid problems, such machines must be registered and operated by people with a certificate of the appropriate category. Otherwise, it is better not to drive them on public roads.

Tractors in the Automotive Business ad database

And if with mileage?

In search of cheaper options, we studied the advertisements. Most of the offers are homemade tractors without documents. Let's look at some of them.

A homemade tractor with a trailer, plow and hillers is sold in the Mogilev region for 2,568 rubles. As the owner said over the phone, he made the tractor himself about 15 years ago, and recently assembled another one. It has a two-cylinder engine, the kind that used to be installed on Belarusian walk-behind tractors; the tractor is powerful and suitable for agricultural work. “It doesn’t slip in the field, I even pulled a cargo lawn with it,” said the owner. Although the homemade product was not registered with the traffic police, the owner claimed that he had no problems.

Another homemade product with a ZID engine, a gearbox from a GAZ-69, an axle from a Moskvich and a trailer is sold in the Brest region for 1,156 rubles. “The tractor was used to work in the fields and remove garbage. Now we only have a vegetable garden, we don’t need it,” the owner told us. In addition to the tractor, he gives away a spare engine and axle.

A mini-tractor assembled on the basis of an MTZ walk-behind tractor is sold in the Minsk region for 4,366 rubles. “We have two walk-behind tractors, we have reduced the number of plantings, so the second one is no longer needed,” the owner said over the phone. “Such a device is considered to have a towing force of up to 1.2 tons, so in theory it can be driven without a license, but we didn’t drive it on public roads, and if necessary, we transported it on a trailer.” The tractor has a battery and a generator, so you can attach equipment to it: lights, turns. The owner only gives the plow as a set.

We would call one of the most expensive options for a mini-tractor a unit from the Brest region for 5,650 rubles, which, although similar to the factory one, turned out to be homemade. According to the owner, the tractor is new, it has an original Japanese Honda engine, hydraulic brakes and, judging by the photo, front running lights and rear-view mirrors, which are usually not found in homemade machines. The owner assured that the tractor was better than the factory one, made by him soundly and using original spare parts. As for documents, there are none, but, according to the owner, he has never had problems with the traffic police, the main thing is not to interfere with the road.

One of the simplest and cheapest homemade options is sold in the Minsk region for 2,000 rubles. Over the phone, the owner did not talk in detail about the unit and offered to come and have a look.

Of the used factory tractors, we found a 2016 Centaur T15D with a 15 hp engine. The ad states that the car is in new condition. In addition to the unit, the owner will give a plow, a milling cutter and a single-row potato digger. The cost of a used tractor is 4,500 rubles.

Belarus MTZ 320.4 Lamborghini

This model can be classified as a mid-price mini-tractor. Outwardly, it looks like professional equipment, but has somewhat limited capabilities and reduced dimensions. The scope of use of such a mini-tractor is no longer limited to summer cottages or farms. It can be used in both construction and public utilities.

The main external difference between the Belarus MTZ 320.4 mini-tractor and the previous ones is the presence of a cabin with a roof, which can be removed if necessary. You can also note the internal heating system, air conditioning, and headlights.

The unit has a power of 36 hp, and the gearbox is equipped with 24 speed modes: 16 forward and 8 rear. This mini-tractor was produced in Belarus. The total area that it can cultivate reaches 20 hectares.

Externally, the mini-tractor looks quite large. With dimensions of 322x155x169 cm, it weighs 1720 kg. Maximum speed is 25 km/h.