Best Compact Tractors for Small Farms 2025 are revolutionizing the way small farmers and landowners operate. Farming life is not only for big commercial farms. Plenty of people nowadays have small farms, homesteads, or acreage homes, and possession of the right equipment can be a game changer. Of all the implements out there, a compact tractor is quite possibly the most versatile. These tractors provide power, functionality, and price in one package that enables you to mow, tow, grade, dig, and complete the daily tasks efficiently.
With so many options, though, what compact tractor is right for your property? In this 2025 buyer’s guide, we contrast six of the top compact tractors for small farms:
John Deere 1023E
John Deere 1025R
Kubota BX23S
Massey Ferguson GC1723E
Mahindra eMAX 20S HST
Bad Boy Tractors (3026 & 4025 series)
If you’re searching specifically for a John Deere 1023E, check our John Deere 1023E for Sale – Price & Specs.
Why Compact Tractors are Perfect for Small Farms
Compact tractors are the middle ground between a riding lawn mower and a full-sized farm tractor. They are designed to:
Operate in a tight space but still possess 20–30 HP.
Be utilized with almost any attachment (loaders, backhoes, mowers, snow blower).
Offer fuel savings and ease of use for first-time purchasers.
Offer long-term value through reliability and top resale value.
Whether you’re managing 2 acres or 20, a compact tractor can take on mowing, hauling, digging, and seasonal jobs like snow removal.
John Deere 1023E – The Reliable Entry-Level Tractor
The John Deere 1023E has built its reputation as one of the most popular entry-level compact tractors. Designed for homeowners and small farm owners, it provides the essentials at an affordable price.
Specs at a Glance:
Horsepower: 21.5 HP
Drive: 4WD
Transmission: Hydrostatic, 2-range
Loader Lift Capacity: ~570 lbs
Price Range: $15,000–$18,000 (new) / $9,000–$14,000 (used)
Why Choose the 1023E?
Small enough to store in regular garages.
Picks up the 120R loader, 260B backhoe, and mower decks.
Ideal for mowing 1–5 acres, grading driveways, and light loader use.
See more: John Deere 1023E Price & Specs.
John Deere 1025R – More Power & Comfort
For riders seeking more horsepower and premium comfort, an upgrade is the John Deere 1025R.
Specs at a Glance:
Horsepower: 23.9 HP
Loader Lift Capacity: ~825 lbs
Transmission: Hydrostatic, 2-range
Weight: ~1,565 lbs
Price Range: $17,000–$20,000
Why Choose the 1025R?
Deluxe seat with armrests and tilt steering for comfort.
Cruise control and optional cab for year-round use.
More lift capacity makes it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
Compare: John Deere 1023E vs 1025R.
Kubota BX23S – Strong Backhoe Performance
Kubota is another well-known household name when it comes to compact tractors, and the BX23S stands out for its integrated backhoe and loader system.
Specs at a Glance:
Horsepower: 23 HP
Loader Lift Capacity: ~739 lbs
Backhoe: Standard on most BX23S models
Price Range: $16,000–$19,000
Why Choose the BX23S?
Excellent for small farms that need digging and trenching.
Strong dealer network across the U.S.
Hydrostatic transmission for simple operation for new buyers.
See also: Kubota Backhoe for Sale.
Massey Ferguson GC1723E – High Lift Power
Massey Ferguson’s GC1723E packs impressive loader capability into a tight package.
Specs at a Glance:
Horsepower: 22.5 HP
Loader Lift Capacity: ~870 lbs
Drive: 4WD
Price Range: $15,500–$18,500
Why the GC1723E?
One of the strongest loader capacities in its class.
Built tough for landscaping and small farm use.
Easy attachment switching system.
Mahindra eMAX 20S HST – Budget-Friendly Brute
Mahindra is renowned for being tough and affordable, and the eMAX 20S HST proves that small tractors can be tough also.
Specs at a Glance:
Horsepower: 19.4 HP
Loader Lift Capacity: ~617 lbs
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Price Range: $14,500–$17,500
Why Choose the eMAX 20S?
Improved performance for its class.
Great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
7-year limited warranty (one of the best in the industry).
Bad Boy Tractors – A New Player in the Market
Bad Boy, well known for its zero-turn mowers, has entered the tractor market with tractors like the 3026 and 4025 compact tractors.
Specs at a Glance (Bad Boy 3026):
Horsepower: 25.7 HP
Loader Lift Capacity: ~1,200 lbs
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Price Range: $16,500–$20,000
Why Choose Bad Boy?
Competitive lift capacity at a lower price.
Aggressive styling and rugged build.
Growing dealer network in the U.S.
External source: Bad Boy Tractors Official
Comparison Table – Best Compact Tractors for Small Farms (2025)
Model Horsepower Loader Lift price Range Best For
John Deere 1023E 21.5 HP 570 lbs $15K–$18K Entry-level, 1–5 acres
John Deere 1025R 23.9 HP 825 lbs $17K–$20K More lift, comfort
Kubota BX23S 23 HP 739 lbs $16K–$19K Backhoe + loader
Massey Ferguson GC1723E 22.5 HP 870 lbs $15.5K–$18.5K Strong loader
Mahindra eMAX 20S
19.4 HP
617 lbs
$14.5K–$17.5K
Budget buyers
Bad Boy 3026
25.7 HP
1,200 lbs
$16.5K–$20K
New model, high lift
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Compact Tractor
When choosing a compact tractor, consider:
Acreage size – 1–5 acres = 20–25 HP; larger land may need 30+ HP.
Budget – Select among new, used, or package specials.
Attachments – Loader, mower deck, and backhoe are essentials.
Comfort – Stock seat vs. deluxe with cab.
Resale value – John Deere and Kubota typically reign supreme.
Learn more: Tractor Horsepower Guide.
Package Deals & Pricing
Dealers tend to offer package deals with:
Tractor + loader + mower + trailer
Tractor + loader + backhoe
These packages save the purchaser thousands of dollars versus buying attachments separately.
View average listings on Machinery Pete.
FAQs – Compact Tractors for Small Farms
Q: What is the best compact tractor for 5 acres?
A: Kubota BX23S or the John Deere 1023E is the ideal combination of power and price.
Q: What compact tractor will hold up best in resale value?
A: John Deere and Kubota hold their value longest.
Q: How are Bad Boy Tractors?
A: They’re newer to the market but have good specs and growing dealer coverage.
Q: Do I buy new or used?
A: Buy new for warranty and peace of mind; buy used if you want to save but inspect carefully.
Q: How much horsepower will I need on 10 acres?
A: At least 25–30 HP, so the Bad Boy 3026 or John Deere 1025R would be a better choice.
Conclusion – Best Compact Tractor for Your Farm in 2025
The best compact tractor for small farms depends on your needs:
Best entry-level → John Deere 1023
Best comfort & power → John Deere 1025R
Best backhoe package → Kubota BX23S
Best loader strength → Massey Ferguson GC1723E
Best budget → Mahindra eMAX 20S
Best newcomer option → Bad Boy 3026
Ready to invest? Start with our John Deere 1023E for Sale – Price & Specs.