What is the Best Tractor Available?
When it comes to determining what tractor is the best on the market, it’s not about the paint color or model year. So then which one is the best? It’s different for every operator because the best tractor is the one that makes the most sense for your operation.
Value For Cost
Purchasing a tractor is a big investment, whether you’re looking for a new field horse or a utility model. The first thing that will make or break the title of “best tractor” is absolutely if it’s price tag matches the value it will bring to your operation. Many people will talk about the depreciation of equipment, which is an important factor, but the true value comes from its efficiency and usefulness on the farm.
When you purchase a tractor, you are investing in a tool that will improve your work day. Therefore, the cost should accurately reflect the features, ease of use, and longevity of that piece of equipment.
Adaptability
Along with evaluating the cost, you should examine if it can be adapted for multiple uses. How many implements can be used based on its horsepower and PTO capability? Will you have to have multiple tractors to complete several tasks?
The best tractor is one that can be adapted to work year-round easily.
Technology
The modern agriculture industry relies heavily on technology. From precision planting tools to in-cab implement controls, advanced tech has changed the way we work ground, plant, and harvest.
It’s important to utilize available technology because it can increase productivity and your profit margins, but it’s also necessary to pay for what you’ll use. It might seem like the best choice is always the most advanced, but it’s crucial to understand what tools will genuinely benefit your work flow and efficiency.
For example, GPS and auto-steer might be critical for operators running on large acreage farms, but some circumstances won’t require that technology. You know your needs the most, so find a tractor that best reflects that.
Efficiency
Another important set of features to consider when trying to find the best choice is efficiency in regard to fuel, product outputs, and user-friendliness.
You want a tractor that can put in long hours on a single tank of fuel, even if it’s using higher levels of power. This not only cuts down on your operating costs, but contributes to your environmental impact.
You’ll also want to consider machines that can work well with the implements you tend to use. For example, if you want to utilize precision planting technology on your row planter, make sure your tractor can be set up with those features.
Lastly, you should consider the user-friendliness of the tractor you choose. While most models have similar controls and driving settings, always make sure it’s something you will be confident running. Of course you can always adapt to changes, but if a model doesn’t seem user-friendly, it could potentially cause work delays in the future.
There really is no straightforward answer to the question, “what is the best tractor available?” because it is so unique to the person who’s asking. There are so many factors to consider! If you’re on the hunt for the right tractor for your operation, our team at West Hills Tractor would be happy to help you with the search. We are located in Jonesborough, TN, and proudly serve the communities of Johnson City and Greeneville. Visit us today to see our inventory and find your best tractor!