23/04/2026
Rubber Tracks vs. Steel Tracks for Mini Excavators: How to Choose
Rubber or steel? Here's what the equipment manufacturers themselves say about where each track type belongs, plus the steel-with-rubber-pads option in between.
Rubber Tracks vs. Steel Tracks for Mini Excavators: How to Choose
Buying guideMini excavators6 min read
Choosing between rubber tracks and steel tracks for a mini excavator comes down to one question: what ground will the machine work on most of the time? Several manufacturers build the same compact excavator with either option, so this is a real choice for many owners. Here's what the equipment manufacturers (OEMs) themselves say about each track type.
Key takeaways
- Rubber tracks suit finished surfaces such as grass and pavement, where you need to protect the ground.
- Steel tracks suit tough conditions: sharp or angular rock, and soil containing concrete and rebar.
- Steel tracks with rubber pads are a middle option some OEMs offer for machines that work across both.
Do manufacturers offer both?
Yes. Several compact excavators sold in the US are listed with rubber and steel track options:
| Machine | Track options listed by the OEM |
|---|---|
| Kubota KX040-4 | 13.8 in (350 mm) rubber track as standard; 13.8 in (350 mm) steel track as an option |
| Cat 305 CR | Rubber belt, steel track, or steel track with rubber pads, all 15.7 in (400 mm) wide |
| Takeuchi TB257FR | Rubber tracks, or steel tracks pre-drilled to accept rubber street pads |
As published by Kubota, Caterpillar and Takeuchi.
If your machine's spec sheet lists only one track type, check with your dealer or your Operation and Maintenance Manual before you switch. Replacing like for like? Browse Kubota rubber tracks, CAT rubber tracks or Takeuchi rubber tracks.
When rubber tracks are the better choice
Rubber tracks are built to protect the surface you're working on.
What the manufacturer says
“grass, pavement or stone without damaging the surface or machine.”
Caterpillar, describing its heavy-duty mini excavator rubber track
That makes rubber the usual choice for landscaping, residential driveways, utility work in finished areas and any job where tearing up the ground means a repair bill. Find the right size in our rubber tracks range, or see how to measure a rubber track first.
When steel tracks are the better choice
Rubber has limits. John Deere's rubber track guidance for its compact track loaders states that rubber-track systems are "not designed or recommended" for work:
- over sharp or angular rocks;
- in soils containing materials such as concrete and rebar;
- for landfill maintenance;
- for extended periods of high-speed roading.
Deere also warns that long periods in corrosive material such as fuel, oil, salt, fertilizer or manure can damage rubber tracks. For mini excavators, Caterpillar likewise says abrasive conditions "such as rocky terrain or gritty soil" accelerate rubber track wear, and describes its heavy-duty steel track as built for durability in tough conditions.
Our advice
If most of your hours are spent in rock, demolition debris or ground like the list above, steel tracks are the safer choice. Staying on rubber? These ground-condition tips will help your tracks last longer.
The middle option: steel tracks with rubber pads
If your machine works on rough ground but also has to cross pavement or finished surfaces, ask whether your model offers steel tracks with rubber pads.
What the manufacturer says
“reduce machine vibration, leading to a smoother ride, less terrain damage, and improved operator comfort compared to traditional steel grouser shoes.”
Caterpillar, on rubber pads for steel tracks
Depending on the design, rubber pads clip on, bolt on or replace the steel shoe, so check which type your track takes.
Rubber pads by make
Side-by-side comparison
| Working condition | Rubber tracks | Steel tracks |
|---|---|---|
| Grass, pavement, finished surfaces | Designed for it | Cat says rubber pads cause less terrain damage than bare steel grouser shoes |
| Sharp or angular rock | Not recommended (John Deere*) | Heavy-duty steel built for tough conditions (Cat) |
| Soil with concrete and rebar | Not recommended (John Deere*) | Heavy-duty steel built for tough conditions (Cat) |
| Long periods in fuel, oil, salt, fertilizer or manure | Can damage the rubber (John Deere*) | Our advice: rinse the undercarriage either way |
| Mixed sites, rough ground plus pavement | Wears faster on the rough ground | Steel with rubber pads, where your model offers it |
*John Deere guidance for rubber-tracked compact track loaders.
What about cost?
Don't compare purchase price alone. Look at the total cost of ownership: what the track costs, how long it lasts in your conditions, and the downtime when it needs replacing. A rubber track working on rocky ground will need replacing sooner than one working on turf.
The bottom line
The cheapest track is the one that keeps the machine working, so match the track to where the machine actually works.
Before you order
1
Confirm your options
Check which track types your make and model is offered with: spec sheet, manual or dealer.
2
Measure your track
Replacing rubber tracks? Measure your rubber track and check the size against the one you're taking off.
3
Check the sprockets
Inspect them at the same time. Here's how to tell if a sprocket is worn, and our sprockets range.
FAQ
Are rubber tracks or steel tracks better for a mini excavator?+
Neither is better everywhere. Rubber tracks suit finished surfaces such as grass and pavement. Steel tracks suit tougher ground. John Deere's compact track loader guidance says rubber tracks are not recommended over sharp or angular rock or in soil containing concrete and rebar.
Can I switch my mini excavator from steel to rubber tracks?+
Only if the manufacturer offers a rubber track option for your model. Some, such as the Kubota KX040-4 and Cat 305 CR, are listed with both. Check your spec sheet or ask your dealer before changing. Browse CAT 305 CR parts or all Kubota rubber tracks.
Do rubber pads turn steel tracks into rubber tracks?+
No. The machine still runs on steel tracks, with rubber pads on the shoes. Caterpillar says they reduce vibration and terrain damage compared with bare steel grouser shoes.
Related guides
Need the right tracks for your machine?
Every rubber track we stock is listed against the machine it fits, with sprockets, track rollers and idlers to match. Shipped across the USA.
Browse rubber tracksTalk to the teamManufacturer names and model numbers are used for identification only. Excavator Parts Direct is an independent supplier of aftermarket parts and is not affiliated with any manufacturer named.
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