If you’re like me and have a lot of landscaping projects or heavy lifting jobs around the property, you probably know how crucial it is to have the right equipment.
Today, I’m going to share my thoughts on the AGT Mini Skid Steer—an affordable piece of machinery that’s caught the attention of many buyers.
But let me start by saying this: if you want something that’s going to be worth every penny, you might want to keep reading because this product comes with some caveats. I’m here to give you a full, balanced review, so you can decide if this skid steer is the right fit for your needs.
Why buy an AGT Mini Skid Steer?
Well, it’s definitely a cost-effective option. On the surface, it’s a versatile machine that claims to do it all—from digging to moving large loads to helping you complete a variety of outdoor tasks. However, there’s more to the story than just its attractive price tag.
In this article, I’m going to break down my experience, along with some pros and cons, and I’ll even give you some comparisons to other brands to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Let’s get into it!
First Impressions of The AGT Mini Skid Steer
When I first laid my eyes on the AGT Mini Skid Steer, my immediate thought was, “This thing looks like it could get the job done.”
It has a compact design, and the marketing pitch seems convincing: a powerful, all-purpose machine for anyone dealing with landscaping, farming, or construction work.
The idea of not needing to hire a big machine every time I wanted to do some serious digging was pretty appealing.
But as soon as I got it, reality started to unfold—both the good and the not-so-good. I’m not going to lie, it does the job it’s supposed to do, but I can’t ignore the few hiccups along the way. And I’m here to share all of that with you so you can be well-informed.
Pros of The AGT Mini Skid Steer
- Affordable Price Point: One of the biggest advantages of the AGT Mini Skid Steer is its affordability. If you’re trying to cut costs, this skid steer certainly offers an attractive entry-level price compared to its competitors. It’s perfect for anyone on a budget who still wants a piece of heavy equipment that can tackle a variety of jobs.
- Versatility: The AGT Mini Skid Steer is a multi-functional machine. With attachments like a bucket, auger, or even a trencher, it can take on quite a range of tasks—from digging holes for fence posts to clearing debris and transporting materials. If you’re handling various projects, this machine might be able to keep up with your workload.
- Compact Design: The compact design is ideal for people like me who don’t have tons of space to store a huge piece of machinery. It’s also easy to maneuver through tighter spaces. Whether you’re working in a backyard or a cramped construction site, its size makes it convenient to work with.
- Decent Power for the Price: Considering the price point, the AGT Mini Skid Steer offers a decent amount of power. It’s capable of handling basic landscaping and construction tasks without breaking a sweat. It’s not a monster machine, but for light-to-moderate jobs, it generally gets the work done.
Cons of The AGT Mini Skid Steer
- Lack of Proper Documentation: Let me tell you, one of the biggest headaches was the lack of a service or operator’s manual. You’d think such a vital piece of equipment would come with detailed instructions on how to use and maintain it properly. Unfortunately, AGT seems to have missed the mark here. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it makes routine maintenance and troubleshooting difficult.
- Subpar Build Quality: Another issue I faced was with the build quality. After unpacking, I noticed several components had minor damages—a bent right light, a missing knob, and some bent steel areas. Now, I’m not sure if this is purely due to shipping or if it’s an indicator of a more fragile build, but it doesn’t leave a good impression. I wouldn’t call it poorly constructed, but it’s not built like a tank either.
- Freight and Delivery Issues: I’ve read from other users and experienced myself that the shipping of this machine is far from perfect. Some parts came damaged, which means either poor packaging or rough handling during transit. Either way, it’s something AGT needs to improve.
- Customer Service Challenges: I had trouble getting in touch with customer service, and I’ve read similar complaints online. If you run into an issue, getting timely assistance may not be a simple process. This is a dealbreaker for anyone who wants to ensure their investment is protected and serviced efficiently.
Maintenance Tips For AGT Mini Skid Steer
If you decide to go for the AGT Mini Skid Steer, there are a few maintenance tips that I’ve found essential to keep it running smoothly. Since there is no service manual included, I had to learn some of this the hard way, but hopefully, it will save you some time and headaches.
- Regular Lubrication: Keeping all moving parts well-lubricated is crucial. This will ensure that everything works smoothly and prolong the life of your skid steer. Make sure to use high-quality grease and focus on the joints and hydraulic areas.
- Frequent Inspections: Given the build quality and shipping issues, I would recommend giving your skid steer a quick inspection before and after each use. Look for any damage, loose parts, or leaks that could indicate a developing problem.
- Hydraulic System Maintenance: The hydraulic system is the lifeline of the AGT Mini Skid Steer. Regularly checking hydraulic fluid levels and replacing the fluid as per the manufacturer’s recommendations (if you can get hold of any details) will keep it functioning well.
- Keep It Clean: Due to its smaller size, the AGT Mini Skid Steer can be prone to clogging from debris, especially if you’re working in muddy or dusty environments. Be sure to clean the undercarriage and any exposed components after every use to keep it in good shape.
Comparing AGT Mini Skid Steer To Other Brands
- AGT Mini Skid Steer Vs. Wacker Neuson Skid Steer
Wacker Neuson is a brand known for quality construction equipment, and their skid steers are no exception.
Compared to the AGT Mini Skid Steer, the Wacker Neuson model offers far superior build quality and durability.
Wacker Neuson skid steers are built to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease, which makes them ideal for demanding projects.
The AGT, on the other hand, is more suited for light-duty use due to its affordable yet somewhat fragile construction.
Another notable difference is customer support—Wacker Neuson provides extensive service networks and support, whereas AGT has been reported to have limited customer service. If you need something that will withstand the test of time and handle tough tasks, Wacker Neuson is the clear choice, albeit at a higher price point.
- AGT Mini Skid Steer Vs. Takeuchi Skid Steer
Takeuchi skid steers are also well-regarded in the construction industry for their reliability and performance.
When comparing Takeuchi to the AGT Mini Skid Steer, it becomes evident that Takeuchi offers more power, efficiency, and features.
Takeuchi machines have advanced hydraulics, better operator comfort, and a well-designed control system that makes them easy to use even for longer periods. The AGT Mini Skid Steer, while more affordable, lacks these premium features and falls short in terms of power and build quality.
Takeuchi skid steers are more expensive, but if you are looking for a machine that offers excellent performance and comfort, it is worth the investment.
- AGT Mini Skid Steer Vs. Komatsu CK30 Skid Steer
The Komatsu CK30 Skid Steer stands out as a powerful and dependable machine, designed for heavy-duty use.
Compared to the AGT Mini Skid Steer, the Komatsu CK30 offers much greater power, better stability, and enhanced features.
The Komatsu CK30 is equipped with a comfortable operator cabin, a highly efficient hydraulic system, and robust tracks that make it suitable for challenging terrain.
In contrast, the AGT Mini Skid Steer is best for lighter work and occasional use, lacking the power and durability that Komatsu provides.
However, the price difference is also significant—the Komatsu CK30 is much more expensive, making it a better fit for professional contractors who need reliable performance day in and day out. If budget is a primary concern, the AGT can work for smaller projects, but for heavy-duty and professional-grade work, the Komatsu CK30 is a superior option.
Should You Buy The AGT Mini Skid Steer?
So, here’s the big question: should you buy the AGT Mini Skid Steer? I think it really depends on your needs and expectations.
If you’re on a budget and only need a machine for light work, then this skid steer could be a reasonable choice. It’s versatile, and the price is certainly more attractive than some of the higher-end models.
But let’s be real—if you’re expecting a heavy-duty machine with no issues, the AGT Mini Skid Steer will likely fall short. The lack of proper documentation, potential for damage during shipping, and challenges with customer support all weigh heavily on my mind.
If you’re looking for something that can handle frequent, rigorous use, I’d recommend looking at other brands, even if it means paying a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best brand for a mini skid steer really depends on your needs. For reliability, Bobcat and Ditch Witch are often considered top-tier. They have strong reputations for durability, performance, and good customer support. Toro and Vermeer are also excellent choices if you’re looking for versatility and good attachment options.
AGT equipment is typically manufactured by Chinese companies and is often imported to various markets around the world. AGT’s focus is primarily on making affordable machinery for budget-conscious consumers, which explains some of the cost-saving compromises.
There are several Chinese brands offering mini skid steers, including AGT, Sunward, and Lovol. Of these, Sunward is often seen as providing slightly better build quality and more reliable service compared to AGT. However, Chinese-made skid steers generally focus on affordability, so they may not match the durability of premium Western brands.
Bobcat and Caterpillar are generally considered the most reliable brands for skid steers. Both offer high-quality machines that are built to last, with a solid network of service and support. They come at a premium price, but they also offer superior reliability, which can save time and money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the AGT Mini Skid Steer is an option that sits firmly in the budget category. It’s affordable, versatile, and compact—features that are great for someone who doesn’t want to invest heavily in a piece of machinery.
However, it has its downsides, including questionable build quality, a lack of proper manuals, and unreliable customer support.
If you’re simply looking for an inexpensive way to get some light work done around your property, this could work for you. But if you need a more robust, durable, and well-supported machine, I’d recommend looking at other options, even if it means spending a little extra upfront.
In the world of machinery, you often get what you pay for—and that’s certainly true with the AGT Mini Skid Steer.