Wheel loaders: compare specs, models, and performance

Wheel loaders work extended hours in earthmoving, quarrying, aggregates, and industrial applications. While their day-to-day lift-and-carry or load-and-dump work cycles may seem simple, the variables that you need to consider when selecting a wheel loader for your job site and production targets are complex.

The basic design of wheel loaders comes in articulated or rigid frame designs — both are compatible with a wide range of attachments, such as buckets, forks, or couplers.

Articulated wheel loaders feature a centre-pivot design that allows the rear tires to follow the path of the front tires which is particularly useful when working in confined spaces and around obstacles. A rigid frame design is most suitable for high-capacity environments. The solid base allows for high breakout forces and superior durability when working in extreme environments. 

Outside of durability, the size of a wheel loader is often top of mind for new buyers. Depending on the type of work being done and the job sites that it will be used on, thought should be given to choosing a compact, medium, or large machine. 

In our 2026 wheel loader spec guide, explore wheel loader models ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 pounds with a wide variety of breakout forces and bucket capacities to help select your next wheel loader to meet your operational needs.

1. Liebherr

Liebherr's large wheel loader lineup, which includes five XPower models, offers powerful and efficient solutions for heavy-duty material handling across construction, aggregates, industrial yards, forestry, and mining support. Engineered with Liebherr's XPower drive, these loaders deliver outstanding fuel efficiency, strong breakout forces, and long component life. This helps lower the total cost of ownership for operators and fleets. 

Features of the L 566 XPower wheel loader: 

The L 566 XPower provides an ideal combination of power, durability, and fuel efficiency for demanding applications such as quarrying, aggregates, waste handling, and industrial loading. The XPower drive distributes power intelligently and reduces fuel consumption while still delivering high breakout forces and fast loading cycles. With an operating weight in the mid 50,000-pound range, a spacious cab, and intelligent assistance systems that support comfort and safety, the L 566 XPower helps maximize productivity while lowering operating costs.

2. DEVELON

DEVELON's -7 Series wheel loaders deliver enhanced performance with higher capacities, faster cycle times, and enhanced lift capabilities, with some models offering up to 7 percent greater lift capacity compared to prior DEVELON models. Operators can optimize fuel efficiency and performance by selecting from multiple engine power modes. Operator comfort is prioritized with redesigned cabs featuring reduced noise levels and ergonomic controls. Maintenance is simplified to reduce downtime and lower operating costs through centralized lubrication points and easy component access. The MY DEVELON telematics system provides remote monitoring of machine health. DEVELON also offers the exclusive Transparent Bucket, which allows operators to "see through" the bucket with a supplemental view. An optional around view monitor (AVM) camera system offers up to 270 degrees of enhanced visibility and can be paired with proximity sensors to further increase job site safety.

Features of the DL320-7 wheel loader:

The DL320-7 wheel loader boasts a 7 percent greater lift capacity compared to the previous -5 Series model, allowing for a larger capacity bucket for faster, easier loading in fewer cycles. The 271-hp machine features a comfortable operator cab with a DEVELON Smart Touch screen for easy access to vital machine functions. Safety features like the Transparent Bucket technology and the AVM camera system enhance operator visibility of the job site. 

3. CASE Construction Equipment 

CASE Construction Equipment's G Series wheel loader lineup is designed to give contractors powerful, smart, and efficient solutions to conquer tough job site challenges and boost productivity. Spacious cabs with ergonomic seating and responsive, easy-to-use controls help operators stay comfortable and in control all day long, while advanced electro-hydraulic systems deliver smooth, precise performance. Engine and hydraulic efficiencies maximize reliability and fuel savings, allowing crews to move bigger payloads with greater accuracy and less effort. With production-class power, intelligent features like Ride Control and auto-reversing fans, and a design focused on operator experience and total cost of ownership, CASE has designed G Series wheel loaders to give contractors the confidence and capability to take on bigger challenges with ease.

Features of the 821G wheel loader:

At 42,414 pounds and 230 hp, CASE Construction Equipment's 821G wheel loader delivers the breakout force, traction, and travel speed needed for demanding production work. Its intelligent electro-hydraulic controls, programmable touchscreen, and smooth hydraulic response help crews load faster and work more efficiently across heavy construction applications. Built for consistent, day-long performance, the 821G blends robust power with smart efficiency, while its sealed, climate-controlled cab keeps operators comfortable, protected, and focused. 

4. Volvo Construction Equipment

Volvo's new-gen large wheel loaders are built to maximize productivity, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort. Standard features include a Smart Control engine mode, which lowers fuel consumption by up to 4 percent, plus automatic bucket levelling and OptiShift with Reverse By Braking technology to shorten cycle times and reduce component wear. The redesigned cab includes streamlined controls and a larger integrated Volvo Co-Pilot display for intuitive control and machine management. Optional features include an intelligent Auto Bucket Fill system that automates the throttle, lift, and tilt hydraulics. The Comfort Drive Control system uses a single ergonomic lever for steering, significantly reducing operator fatigue. Volvo Smart View provides a 360-degree view, and an updated collision mitigation system warns the operator about obstacles when reversing, automatically braking when the machine gets too close to an object.

Features of the Volvo L260 wheel loader:

The Volvo L260 wheel loader is designed for rehandling, earthmoving, mining and quarrying work, and more. With an operating weight of about 77,000 pounds and a 414-hp Volvo engine, the L260 delivers the power operators need with nearly 64,000 pound-feet of breakout force. For added efficiency, it includes Automatic Traction Control, which locks the differential to prevent wheel slip in challenging conditions. Designed for fast cycle times and operator comfort, it also features load-sensing hydraulics and the latest integrated Volvo Co-Pilot display for enhanced machine management.

5. Komatsu

Komatsu wheel loaders span from versatile mid-size to heavy yard loader configurations — the lineup supports a wide range of applications from aggregates and quarry to waste, infrastructure, and general construction with advanced technology and dealer support to help keep fleets productive. Redesigned cabs, heated air suspension seats, and intuitive controls, including advanced joystick steering and quick-set boom and bucket positioners, help operators maintain accuracy and reduces fatigue.

Features of the WA 485-11 wheel loader:

Engineered for efficiency and power, the WA485-11 delivers more productivity with less fuel. Its Tier 4 Final engine and Komatsu Hydraulic Mechanical Transmission (KHMT) combine to improve fuel economy by up to 12 percent compared to previous models, while providing smooth, responsive control. Independent work equipment control and optional angle feedback joystick steering (AFJS) enhance operator precision and comfort. A spacious cab with intuitive controls supports long shifts, and integrated load-meter functions help optimize truck loading. Ideal for aggregates, quarries, and heavy construction, the WA485-11 is built to move more material while lowering total cost of ownership.

6. John Deere Construction & Forestry 

The John Deere wheel loader lineup offers flexibility in size without compromising in durablity or power. On the lower end, the 644 P-Tier, 644 X-Tier, and 724 P-Tier are suited to medium-duty material handling and are easy to manoeuvre across job sites. Moving up in size, the 744 P-Tier and 744 X-Tier models serve as versatile and high-performance options that offer strong horsepower, responsive hydraulics, and advanced operator-assist features. The 824 P-Tier and 824 X-Tier provide increased breakout force, larger bucket capacities, and enhanced stability, making them ideal for heavy-duty production loading. At the upper end, the 844 P-Tier delivers substantial power for quarry and large-site operations. Across the lineup, operators can enjoy upgraded cabs, intuitive controls, and consistent performance on any job site. 

Features of the 824 X-Tier wheel loader:

The 824 X-Tier is a standout in the John Deere lineup due to its powerful engine and operating weight. The 824 X-Tier delivers durability with high-capacity, heavy-duty axles with standard axle cooling and filtration designed to withstand demanding conditions. What particularly sets the 824 X-Tier apart is the exclusive Electric Variable Transmission (EVT), a hybrid E-Drive system that improves fuel efficiency, reduces complexity, and enables near-instant power delivery under load, boosting throughput while lowering life cycle costs. Operators also benefit from a cab that features a temperature controlling HVAC system and ergonomic controls for optimal comfort. 

7. HD Hyundai Equipment North America

Hyundai's wheel loaders feature ZF axles and transmissions, sealed driveline components, long-life braking systems, and buckets constructed with wear-resistant HARDOX 400 steel. Optimized bucket geometry improves fill factors and material retention. Inside the cab, a quiet, spacious work environment includes a seven-inch touchscreen display, electro-hydraulic controls, climate management, and an integrated weighing system to support precise loading. Available configurations include heavy-duty packages designed for demanding quarry or industrial environments, extended reach and tool carrier linkage versions for greater lift flexibility, traction-enhancing limited slip differentials, axle coolers for high-temperature job sites, and a full 360-degree surround view monitoring system.

Features of the HL985A wheel loader:

The Hyundai HL985A is the largest and most recently introduced wheel loader in the A Series. Built for high-volume and demanding work, its large bucket makes it ideal for quarries, aggregates, earthmoving, and heavy industrial jobs. Operators enjoy a spacious cab, electro-hydraulic controls, on-board weighing, Smart Power technology, and optional features such as all-around view monitoring, auxiliary hydraulics, heavy counterweight, and enhanced axle cooling.

8. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas

Hitachi wheel loaders feature fuel-efficient engines with intelligent power management that adjusts output to match the task. Spacious, low-noise cabs with ergonomic controls, excellent visibility, and adjustable seating improve operator comfort. Built-in payload weighing systems and intuitive monitors support accurate loading and better cycle times, while advanced safety options, such as camera systems and rear object detection, enhance job site awareness. Versatile configurations and attachment options suit a wide range of material-handling needs. Telematics and remote monitoring tools enable proactive maintenance, performance tracking, and reduced downtime. 

Featured of the ZW220-7 wheel loader:

The Hitachi ZW220-7, the newest in Hitachi's lineup, has an operating weight of 40,013 pounds and delivers approximately 204 hp. The ZW220-7 provides a straight tipping load of 33,797 pounds and a full-turn tipping load of 29,938 pounds when equipped with a general-purpose bucket. With its enhanced attachment capabilities, operators can easily switch attachments for increased versatility. The ZW220-7 incorporates a redesigned cab developed to make operators more comfortable and safer in their work environment. With refined ergonomics, air-ride seats, and improved technology, operators can move confidently, and comfortably, around the job site. 

9. XCMG

XCMG's wheel loader lineup is built around a consistent Z-bar linkage design that provides strong breakout force and fast digging performance across all models. Each loader comes standard with automatic lubrication, ride control, and auxiliary hydraulics routed down the boom to support quick attachment changes. The operator cabin features ROPS/FOPS protection, high visibility, ergonomic controls, and multiple power modes suited for varied site conditions. A parallel-lift function is available electronically, enabling the bucket or forks to remain level through the lift cycle without requiring a different linkage type. Optional configurations include multiple bucket sizes, high-lift boom options, payload weighing systems, telematics, and guarding packages for severe-duty environments. The lineup supports a range of applications in construction, aggregates, industrial handling, and material-processing operations, with operating weights and capacities selected to match material density and production requirements. 

Featured of the XC958U wheel loader:

The XC958U is a mid-size production wheel loader designed for strong breakout performance, efficient load cycles, and reliable operation in quarry, aggregate, and material-handling environments. The machine features an operating weight of 43,211 pounds and a 255-hp engine. As well, the Z-bar linkage provides a breakout force of 39,342 lbf, along with a static tipping load of 23,369 pounds. 

10. Caterpillar

Caterpillar's medium wheel loader line feature next-generation performance enhancements, such as auto front differential lock. Smoother transmission engagement and improved integrated brake systems boost traction and operating ease. Standard and optional technologies, like Cat Payload, manual tip-off, application profiles, and Autodig with Auto Set Tires, help operators achieve consistent high bucket fill and efficient cycles. New operator aids and refined controls increase comfort and ease of use. Remote operation is available through Cat Command for Loading, enabling semi-autonomous control in hazardous environments. Across the range, Caterpillar emphasizes integrated technology, robust performance, and adaptable configurations to suit varied job sites while enhancing productivity and lowering operating costs. 

Featured of the 980 wheel loader:

The Cat 980 medium wheel loader is powered by the Cat C13 engine and an efficient drivetrain; it's designed to handle high-production workloads while maintaining fuel efficiency. The machine features a durable frame, responsive hydraulics, and a range of bucket options to support different materials and site needs. Operator comfort and visibility are prioritized through a well laid out cab, and serviceability is designed to help reduce downtime and simplify routine maintenance.