Rating of the best wheel loaders for 2022

In many areas of human activity, automotive special equipment comes to the rescue. A front loader is a universal representative of bucket special equipment, indispensable in construction, agriculture, and the mining industry. It performs the capture, lifting, transportation, stacking, movement of goods. Let's present a rating of high-quality models of Russian and foreign production for 2022 with a description of technical characteristics, advantages, and average price.

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

The man tries to make things as easy as possible. An excellent help in the performance of construction, earthmoving, agricultural work is a front loader.

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

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

The next reason is workflow optimization. The front loader helps to reduce physical efforts and time, save money. Different levels of work are carried out easily and quickly. 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 the duration of work: cyclic, continuous action;
4. by engine type: electric, with internal combustion engines (gasoline, diesel, gas).

Another reason for the popularity is the maneuverability and mobility of the device due to its small size and weight, which allows you to perform several types of manipulations at the same time (transport and loading, lifting and storage, etc.). The long lift boom model makes it easy to load items and materials into trucks with high sides.

In addition, the ratio of load capacity and weight is optimal, unlike models of similar construction equipment (hydraulic excavators). Comfort cannot be discounted: the cabins are equipped with electronic equipment and 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. price;
4. purchase method;
5. level of comfort;
6. manufacturing company;
7. reviews.

Specifications. Any technique is evaluated by technical characteristics. For a front loader, this is:

• lifting capacity - tearing force (small - up to 2 tons; medium - from 2 to 5 tons; high - from 5 tons);
• power is a 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 equipment, it is advisable to consider whether additional equipment is included in the kit, or it will have to be purchased separately. Attachments that increase the functionality of the machine:

• pitchfork;
• dump;
• brush;
• snow plow;
• hydraulic hammer;
• Boer;
• log grab;
• ripper;
• grab;
• vibrorammer;
• trench bucket;
• planning bucket.

Price. Often this is a key selection criterion, because the buyer is interested in how much the product costs. Expensive branded models are less in demand than representatives of inexpensive lines of the same Chinese manufacturers, which are not much inferior in quality to famous global firms.
Purchase method. Online shopping has become part of everyday life, and in addition to the traditional way of buying goods, the opportunity to order online a wheel loader that you like is used. On the seller's website, a model range of equipment with a description of technical characteristics is displayed. Often, customer reviews are also posted there, which are appropriate to study in order to get an idea about the online store, the level of service, and the quality of the goods offered.

Comfort level. Gone are loaders with rattling parts, a stuffy dusty cabin, a small view, and an uncomfortable driver's seat. Today, manufacturers produce a new generation of equipment of increased comfort, which is a pleasure to work on. Models are completed with a cabin with conveniences for the driver. No one is surprised by the presence of air conditioning, sound insulation, electronics that allow 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 centers for warranty repairs, the availability of spare parts, and the 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. It is not advisable to contact the official website for this purpose due to the fact that an advertising description is given there and it is silent about possible shortcomings.

Recommendations when choosing

1. Pay attention to the material of the bucket: 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 cost-effective operation and high performance.
4. With the expected continuous operation of the unit for a full 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 turned off, then it is better to make a choice in favor of a utility loader.
6. The leading factor of choice is the ratio of machine performance and fuel consumption.
7. Compare fuel consumption with the expected amount of work.
8. When buying a large model make sure you have an oil cooling system for a longer life of the brakes and axles.
9. If a wide range of work is expected, it is important to take care of purchasing a quick adapter for installing attachments.
10. Find out what is included in the list of options necessary for cabin comfort: air conditioning and heating, automatic heating of the seat, rear-view mirrors, audio system, tightness.

Top Producers

The best manufacturers of new generation wheel loaders take into account the achievements of modern engineering, consumer recommendations. The design has been improved, the working equipment has been improved to increase the capacity of the buckets, 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. Less demand is for expensive equipment from Europe, America, Japan.

XCMG - the largest Chinese manufacturer of special equipment. It supplies its products to the markets of many countries of the world. Successfully uses the system of foreign investment in new production technologies. It produces high-quality copies of famous world brands.

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

Longing is one of the top three engineering firms in China. 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 operation of equipment. Plus the work of the manufacturer in the presence of any spare parts, which increases the maintainability of its products.

Komatsu – the hallmark of the well-known 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 operate.

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

• 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 overturning 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 drawback of the technique is the high price, which is compensated by impeccable quality.

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

Rating of the best front loaders in 2022

Let's start the review of the most popular, according to buyers, models of front loaders in 2022.

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 ensures an increase in economic efficiency. Unit with a rear engine with a capacity of 125 hp. on an articulated frame, it is able to work even in the most difficult conditions of the Russian North. The compact, manoeuvrable representative of Chinese mechanical engineering is complemented by improved power, performance, and longer service life:

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

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

Average price: 3,200,000 rubles

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

• risk of damage to a low-lying gearbox.

Amcador 342B

Single-bucket device with bulldozer equipment for a wide range of loading, unloading, transportation, stacking of lumpy, bulk, stacked materials. It is convenient to use in warehouses. High rates of work speed are 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 detachment of effort (12 t);
• lifting height 3 m;
• low fuel consumption;
• engine 155 hp, providing rotation of the shaft 2400 rpm;
• load capacity 4 t;
• weight 11.5 tons.

Profitability is achieved thanks to gas turbine supercharging, hydromechanical transmission. The special vehicle has a comfortable compact cabin:

• thoughtful arrangement 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;
• directional fan.

The scope of application is increased by additional attachments:

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

Average price: 4,500,000 rubles

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

• not identified.

SDLG L953F

This model is produced at a state-owned factory in China, is competitive due to the quality of components and assembly. The compact device with a small turning radius can be used in production and storage facilities, in limited areas. The overall width is only 285 cm. The bucket capacity is 3.3 m3, the load capacity is 5 tons. The ergonomic cab allows the operator to sit comfortably and freely control the equipment even full-time. This is facilitated by good noise and vibration isolation, visibility, the ability to connect an engine preheater, air conditioning, and an audio system. The machine can be equipped with a pivoting dozer blade for road or snow removal work. The width of the bulldozer blade is 2500 mm, the depth is up to 5 tons. Snow, sand, gravel can move to the left, right, straight. Equipment available with other attachments:

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

Buyers invariably note an adequate ratio of cost and quality of assembly of 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 components.

• cable hydraulic control.

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. Versatility provide:

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

Can be used with a bucket from 2.5 to 7 m3, load capacity 5.5 tons. 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 in the market.

Average price: 15,360,000 rubles

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

• high price.

Hitachi ZW180-5A

One of the most popular models of the famous Japanese manufacturer due to special design solutions. In addition to reliability and high performance, the machine with automatic bucket balancing is completely environmentally friendly. Powerful diesel turbine engine with a volume of 6.7 liters has a large margin of safety, allows you to dig at high speed. Attached equipment allows you to perform many operations in different areas of life. The spacious cabin is the most comfortable for the operator. 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 restrictor valve;
• friction cut-off system depending on the speed of the machine.

An optional boom auto leveler can be installed to increase productivity.

Average price: 11,200,000 rubles

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

• high price.

Komatsu WA-380-6

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

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

Bucket volume 3.3 m3, power 192 hp, load capacity 6000 kg.

Average price: 14,500,000 rubles

• ease of operation;
• convenient management;
• technical advantages;
• excellent driving performance;
• high build quality;
• original accessories;
• a large selection of attachments;
• comfort for the operator.

• 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 operate for many years. Convenient hydrostatic machine control, 353 hp diesel engine. water-cooled, joysticks in the operator's cab make the operation easy, without requiring excessive effort. The bucket volume is 4.8 m3, the load capacity is 8,000 kg, the operating weight is about 30 tons. An exhaust gas toxicity control system is installed, which indicates the environmental friendliness of the device. Convenient functional cabin allows the operator to work comfortably:

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

Average price: 17,900,000 rubles

• reliable engine;
• spare parts available;
• ergonomic control;
• comfortable cabin;
• universality;
• environmental Safety;
• high performance;
• high breakout force.

• high price.

ANT 3000

The popular full-size wheeled model produced by the Kovrov Electromechanical Plant is used in many industrial and utility operations. The John Deere diesel engine of the 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 trouble-free operation of the equipment.A comfortable cab with all-round glazing is equipped with a steering column with a dashboard, a side console with control buttons. The cab is heated by the engine cooling system, which makes it comfortable for the operator to work even in severe frosts. Load 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 harsh 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.