Rating of the best wheel loaders for 2020

In many spheres of human activity, automotive special equipment comes to the rescue. Front-end loader is a universal representative of special bucket equipment, indispensable for construction, agriculture, mining. It grabs, lifts, transports, stacks, and moves loads. We present a rating of high-quality models of Russian and foreign production for 2020 with a description of the technical characteristics, advantages, and average prices.

How to choose a front loader

Consider where to buy such equipment, which company is better, what to look for when choosing.

Reasons for the popularity of front loaders

A person tries to make work as easy as possible. An excellent aid in the performance of construction, earthmoving, agricultural work is a front loader.

The main reason for the popularity of this technique is its versatility:

• combination of functions of a bulldozer, scraper, excavator;
• increasing functionality with the help of interchangeable equipment for narrow-profile manipulations.

The next reason is workflow optimization. Front loader helps to reduce physical effort and time, save money. Different levels of work are carried out quickly and easily. The devices are easy to operate and maintain.

What are the types:

1. on the base: wheeled, tracked;
2. by type of attachments: bucket, fork;
3. by duration of work: cyclical, continuous action;
4. by engine type: electric, with internal combustion engines (petrol, diesel, gas).

Another reason for its popularity is the device's maneuverability and mobility due to its small dimensions and weight, which allows performing several types of manipulations simultaneously (transport and loading, lifting and storage, etc.). The long luffing boom model conveniently loads items and materials into trucks with high sidewalls.

In addition, the optimal ratio of lifting capacity and weight, in contrast to models of similar construction equipment (hydraulic excavators). Comfort cannot be disregarded: the cabins are equipped with electronic equipment, air conditioning. All this ultimately leads to the fact that interest in this type of vehicle is steadily growing.

Criterias of choice

However, in order to purchase a quality option, it is important to consider several parameters:

1. specifications;
2. equipment;
3. cost;
4. purchase method;
5. level of comfort;
6. manufacturing company;
7. reviews.

Specifications. Any technique is evaluated according to its technical characteristics. For a front loader, these are:

• lifting capacity - breakout force (small - up to 2 tons; medium - from 2 to 5 tons; high - from 5 tons);
• power - the fundamental factor on which the performance of the unit depends (from 128 to 320 hp);
• weight (from 3 to 30 tons);
• unloading height (from 2.7 to 3.3 m);
• bucket volume (from 1 to 7.5 m3).

Equipment. When choosing a technique, it is advisable to consider whether additional equipment is included in the kit, or it will have to be bought separately. Attachments that increase the functionality of the machine:

• pitchfork;
• dump;
• brush;
• snow removal plant;
• hydraulic hammer;
• Boer;
• log grab;
• ripper;
• grab;
• vibratory rammer;
• trench bucket;
• leveling bucket.

The cost... This is often a key selection criterion, because the buyer is interested in how much the product costs. Expensive branded models are in less demand than representatives of inexpensive lines of the same Chinese manufacturers, which are not inferior in quality to renowned world firms.
Purchase method. Online stores have entered everyday life, and in addition to the traditional way of buying goods, the opportunity to order a front loader that you like is used online. A model range of equipment with a description of the technical characteristics is displayed on the seller's website. Often, customer reviews are posted there, which is appropriate to study in order to get an idea of ​​the online store, the level of service, the quality of the goods offered.

Comfort level. Gone are the forklifts with rattling parts, stuffy, dusty cab, small visibility, uncomfortable driver's seat. Today, manufacturers are releasing a new generation of equipment with increased comfort, which is a pleasure to work on. Models are equipped with a driver's cab. No one is surprised by the presence of an air conditioner, soundproofing, electronics, which allows you to control the car in two clicks.
Manufacturing company. When choosing, it is appropriate to take into account the manufacturer of the equipment. It is better to give preference to well-known brands that occupy a certain niche in the special equipment market. It is important to have service points for warranty repairs, availability of spare parts, maintainability of machines. Not all manufacturers are ready to provide this.

Reviews. Before purchasing a product, it has become a tradition to study customer reviews. Today, this is quickly done through numerous Internet resources: forums, blogs, YouTube. To contact the official website for this purpose is not advisable due to the fact that an advertising description is given there and is silent about possible shortcomings.

Recommendations when choosing

1. Pay attention to the bucket material: it should be high strength steel with a reinforced edge.
2. When choosing a complete set, it is appropriate to proceed from the intended types of work in the use of equipment.
3. Choose a model that combines economy in operation and high performance.
4. With the expected continuous operation of the unit a full work shift, it is advisable to opt for an industrial loader with the possibility of cyclic movement without interruption.
5. If the nature of the work is varied, the machine will have to periodically idle, stand with the engine off, then it is better to choose a communal loader.
6. The leading factor in the choice is the ratio of machine performance and fuel consumption.
7. Correlate the fuel consumption with the expected volume of work.
8. When buying a large model, make sure that there is an oil cooling system for a longer service life of brakes and axles.
9. If a wide range of work is expected, it is important to take care of purchasing a quick-acting adapter for installing attachments.
10. Find out what is included in the list of options necessary for the comfort of the cab: air conditioning and heating system, automatic seat heating, rear-view mirrors, audio system, airtightness.

Top manufacturers

The best manufacturers of new generation wheel loaders take into account the achievements of modern mechanical engineering, consumer recommendations.The design has been improved, working equipment has been improved to increase the bucket capacity, the list of functions performed by the machine has been expanded, and the comfort of the cab has been increased. In our country, models of Russian, Chinese, Belarusian production are popular. Almost 90% of the market is the budget segment. Expensive equipment from Europe, America, Japan is in less demand.

XCMG - the largest Chinese manufacturer of special equipment. It supplies its products to the markets of many countries around the world. He successfully uses the system of foreign investment in new production technologies. Produces quality copies of well-known world brands.

SDLG - one of the high-tech Chinese enterprises for the production of front loaders, excavators, road rollers. Cooperates with Volvo, which affects the level of technology, product quality.

Lonking - is one of the three leaders in Chinese engineering firms. Under the Longgong brand, it produces wheel loaders and other road construction vehicles that are popular all over the world.
Hyundai is a well-known engineering brand from South Korea, popular for its reliability, durability, and flawless performance. Plus the manufacturer's work in the presence of any spare parts, which increases the maintainability of his products.

Komatsu - the hallmark of the famous Japanese manufacturer has always been the perfect design of products and the highest quality of assembly of parts, components, mechanisms. A plant has been built in Russia where the entire range of construction equipment of this company is produced. Warranty service centers work.

HITACHI - a popular company in the world for the production of new generation front loaders from Japan has established itself on the market with a positive side. Her cars are distinguished by:

• Automatic transmission;
• operating weight from 6.9 to 46.6 tons;
• bucket volume from 1 to 6 tons;
• hydraulic disc brakes;
• diesel engine;
• cabins with protection against rollover and penetration by fallen objects.

There are two series of multifunctional front loaders with high performance: LX, LW.

Volvo Is a leading European manufacturer of small and medium-sized wheel loaders with a wide range of attachments for various types of work in many industries. The only disadvantage of the technique is the high price, which is compensated by the impeccable quality.

Amkador - over its almost century-long history, which began in 1927, the Belarusian company has grown to the largest production holding, which includes three factories. The company is constantly improving its technical characteristics taking into account the emerging requirements. The dignity of the brand is the emphasis on the versatility of equipment, comfort for the operator. Work is underway to improve warranty and service.

Ranking of the best wheel loaders in 2020

Let's proceed to an overview of the most popular, according to buyers, front loader models in 2020.

XCMG LW 300F

The popularity of the model is due to the combination of high quality and affordable price. The use of the latest technologies borrowed from well-known European and American companies provides an increase in economic efficiency. Unit with a rear engine with 125 hp. on an articulated frame, it is able to work even in the most difficult conditions of the Russian North. The compact and manoeuvrable representative of the Chinese engineering industry is complemented by improved indicators of power, productivity, and a longer service life:

• weight 10 t;
• lifting capacity 3 t;
• bucket volume 1.8 m3;
• breakout force 11.7 t.

Lever control allows the operator to perform multiple operations quickly in a short period of time. The all-metal cabin has increased corrosion protection, protects against harmful factors.In the event of a breakdown, the unit is easy to repair: parts are easy to replace, you can use regular spare parts for tractors, and on the side of the hood there is a wide door for access to the engine.

Average price: 3,200,000 rubles

• high-quality assembly;
• affordable price;
• high carrying capacity;
• reliability of hydraulics;
• high breakout force;
• ease of management;
• compliance with labor safety requirements;
• high maintainability;
• passed climatic adaptation;
• modern design;
• comfortable cabin;
• unpretentious in maintenance;
• economic efficiency.

• risk of damage to the low gearbox.

Amkador 342B

One-bucket device with bulldozer equipment for performing a wide range of loading, unloading, transportation, stacking of lumpy, loose, stacked materials. Convenient to use in warehouses. High speed performance is due to compliance with hydraulic cycles. Thanks to them, the bucket loader is in high demand as a professional commercial. Distinctive features:

• small turning radius (5.9 m);
• large force separation (12 t);
• lifting height 3 m;
• low fuel consumption;
• 155 hp engine providing shaft rotation of 2400 rpm;
• lifting capacity 4 t;
• weight 11.5 tons.

Efficiency is achieved thanks to gas turbine charging, hydromechanical transmission. The special vehicle has a comfortable compact cab:

• thoughtful positioning of the chair with height adjustment;
• lever control;
• the ability to adjust the position of the steering wheel;
• rear-view mirrors with a large viewing angle;
• powerful heating system for the cold season;
• fan with directional blowing function.

The scope of application is increased by additional attachments:

• antero-hinged jaw grip;
• stacker;
• log grab;
• crane boom;
• small and medium capacity buckets;
• replaceable knives, tips;
• pitchfork;
• bulldozer blades.

Average price: 4 500 000 rubles

• high-quality assembly;
• long service life;
• adequate cost;
• profitability;
• comfortable cab;
• multifunctionality;
• available spare parts;
• convenience of ordering via the Internet;
• simple control.

• not identified.

SDLG L953F

This model is produced at a state-owned plant in China, and is distinguished by the competitiveness provided by the quality of components and assembly. A compact device with a small turning radius can be used in production and storage facilities, in confined spaces. The overall width is only 285 cm. The bucket capacity is 3.3 m3, the lifting capacity is 5 tons. The ergonomic cab allows the operator to sit comfortably and freely operate the equipment even for a full working day. This is facilitated by good noise and vibration isolation, visibility, the ability to connect an engine preheater, air conditioner, audio system. The machine can be equipped with a swivel dozer blade for road or snow removal. The width of the dozer blade is 2500 mm, the depth is up to 5 tons. Snow, sand, gravel can move left, right, straight. Equipping with other attachments is available:

• grab;
• pitchfork;
• hay thrower;
• logging;
• pipe grab.

Buyers invariably note the adequate ratio of the cost and quality of the assembly of the goods, ease of use, the possibility of maintenance throughout Russia, they are happy to choose this particular model. The only drawback of the model is that in severe Russian frosts, cable hydraulics may stop functioning.

Average price: 4,800,000 rubles

• quality of components and assembly;
• affordable price;
• ergonomic cabin;
• advanced design;
• ease of management;
• durability of mechanisms and units.

• cable control of hydraulics.

Volvo L90F

Wheeled version with an environmentally friendly reliable 175 hp engine.designed for serious manipulations of any complexity in industry, forestry and agriculture. Indispensable in construction, mining industry. Adapted for the harsh conditions of the North. Multifunctionality is provided by:

• hanging bracket (adapter);
• original attachments;
• lifting mechanism.

Can be used with a bucket from 2.5 to 7 m3, lifting capacity 5.5 t. The operating weight is 15170 kg. High-quality components, flawless assembly ensure many years of trouble-free operation. Excellent running and technical characteristics make the car in demand on the market.

Average price: 15 360 000 rubles

• low noise level;
• high quality components;
• Automatic transmission;
• powerful transmission axles;
• comfortable sealed cabin;
• electronic control;
• flawless braking system;
• smooth running;
• decent design.

• high price.

Hitachi ZW180-5A

One of the most demanded models from a well-known Japanese manufacturer due to its special design solutions. In addition to reliability and high performance, the automatic bucket balancing unit is completely environmentally friendly. The powerful diesel turbine engine with a volume of 6.7 liters has a large margin of safety, allows for high-speed digging. Attachments allow you to perform many operations in different areas of life. The spacious cab provides maximum operator comfort. Basic equipment:

• vibration isolation system;
• internal noise absorber;
• climate protection system against dust;
• simple joystick control;
• comfortable chair with adjustable position.

The package includes devices that increase the efficiency of loading:

• boom limiting valve;
• frictional shutdown system depending on the machine speed.

An optional auto boom leveler can be installed for increased productivity.

Average price: 11,200,000 rubles

• versatility;
• a set of loading efficiency devices;
• uninterrupted operation for a long time;
• high maintainability;
• Ease of controls;
• the possibility of service;
• the most comfortable cab;
• environmental Safety;
• high performance;
• excellent overview;
• works in any climatic conditions.

• high price.

Komatsu WA-380-6

Easy to operate, maneuverable universal model with basic controls. Technical features:

• maximum height and range of unloading;
• two-speed hydraulic system;
• equipment control control;
• powerful economical engine;
• sealed connectors;
• long wheelbase;
• reversible fan;
• transmission mode selection system.

Bucket volume 3.3 m3, power 192 HP, lifting capacity 6000 kg.

Average price: 14,500,000 rubles

• ease of use;
• convenient control;
• technical advantages;
• excellent driving performance;
• high build quality;
• original components;
• a large selection of attachments;
• operator comfort.

• high price.

Hyundai HL780-9S

The all-wheel drive model of the South Korean manufacturer has gained popularity among Russian consumers due to its quality, durability, and reliability. The manufacturer takes care of the availability of original spare parts, consumables, assemblies, the timely replacement of which will allow the equipment to be used for many years. Convenient hydrostatic machine control, 353 hp diesel engine water-cooled, joysticks in the operator's cab make the process of work effortless and effortless. The bucket volume is 4.8 m3, the lifting capacity is 8,000 kg, the operating weight is about 30 tons. An exhaust gas toxicity control system has been installed, which indicates the environmental friendliness of the device. Convenient functional cab allows the operator to work comfortably:

• climate control;
• audio system;
• heater;
• air conditioning;
• LSD display of parameters from the on-board computer.

Average price: 17,900,000 rubles

• reliable engine;
• available spare parts;
• ergonomic control;
• comfortable cab;
• versatility;
• environmental Safety;
• high performance;
• great breakout force.

• high price.

ANT 3000

The popular full-size wheeled model produced by the Kovrov Electromechanical Plant is used in many industrial and municipal operations. The John Deere diesel engine of an American manufacturer of high-class environmental safety with a liquid cooling system allows the machine to work in the difficult conditions of the Russian climate. A set of attachments provides versatility. Hydromechanical all-wheel drive transmission, hydraulic disc brakes, automatic bucket balancing guarantee long-term trouble-free operation of the equipment. The comfortable cab with circular glazing is equipped with a steering column with a dashboard, a side panel with control buttons. The cab is heated from the engine cooling system, even in severe frosts, the operator is comfortable to work. Lifting capacity 3 t, bucket capacity 1.6 m3.

Average price: 3,500,000 rubles

• reliability;
• build quality;
• affordable price;
• ease of repair;
• a large selection of attachments;
• environmentally friendly engine;
• trouble-free operation;
• adapted for severe winter;
• good maneuverability.

• uncomfortable operator's seat.

What type of front loader is better to buy, which brand to give preference to, the buyer decides. The presented rating gives an idea of ​​the popular models of the best brands, helps to avoid mistakes when choosing a universal road car.