Tractor Brands Guide: The Makes UK and Irish Buyers Look For
Walk round any farm sale or dealer yard in the UK and Ireland and the same names come up again and again. This guide covers the main tractor makes, the model ranges you’ll see most on the used market, and what to keep in mind when you’re buying second hand. When you’re ready, browse used tractors for sale on Plant And Tractor Trader.
John Deere
The American giant is one of the most familiar sights on UK farms. Used buyers mostly look at the 6M and 6R ranges as all-rounders, the 7R and 8R for big field work, and the 5 Series for smaller farms and loader work. Deere’s guidance and precision farming kit is a big part of its appeal, so check what screens, receivers and activations come with a used machine.
Massey Ferguson
Massey Ferguson has deep roots in British farming, and older models still change hands for their simplicity. Today’s ranges run from the 5S and 6S mid-range tractors to the 7S and 8S. Massey is part of AGCO, alongside Fendt and Valtra, so some components are shared across the three.
New Holland
New Holland tractors are a common choice for livestock, mixed and arable farms alike. The T5, T6 and T7 ranges cover most needs, with the T7 a popular contractor’s tractor. Check whether a used T6 or T7 has the Auto Command CVT or a powershift gearbox, as that affects both price and how it suits your work.
Case IH
Case IH shares its parent company, CNH, with New Holland. The Farmall and Maxxum ranges cover smaller and mid-size work, the Puma covers roughly the 150 to 240 hp class, and the Optum and Magnum are for heavy draft work.
Fendt
The German premium make is known for its Vario stepless transmission and holds its value well on the used market. You’ll see the 300, 500, 700 and 900 Vario series most often, with the 700 a common sight with contractors.
Claas
Best known for combines and forage harvesters, Claas also builds tractors. The Arion covers the mid-range and the Axion the larger end. Read our full guide to buying and selling used Claas tractors.
Valtra
The Finnish make has a loyal following, particularly with livestock and forestry users. The N and T Series are the core ranges, with the G and Q Series filling the gaps, and many are built to order with options such as reverse drive.
Deutz-Fahr
Deutz-Fahr, part of Italy’s SDF group, offers a lot of tractor for the money. Agrotron 5 and 6 Series models are the ones you’ll see most on the used market.
Kubota
Kubota is a big name in compact tractors for smallholdings, estates, equestrian and amenity work, and the M Series has brought the make into the mainstream farm tractor market.
JCB Fastrac and other names
The British-built JCB Fastrac, with full suspension and high road speeds, is popular for haulage, spraying and contracting. You’ll also find Zetor, McCormick, Landini, Same and vintage Ford and David Brown tractors on the used market.
Buying a used tractor: brand matters less than condition
A well-looked-after tractor from any of these makes will usually be a better buy than a neglected one from your favourite. Before you buy:
- Ask for service records and check the hours match the wear.
- Drive it through every gear and check the transmission doesn’t slip.
- Test the linkage, spool valves and PTO under load.
- Check tyres, front axle play and the cab electrics.
- Find out whether the price is plus VAT.
Also think about your local dealer network for parts and servicing, and how you’ll get the tractor home. Our tractor transport guide and asset finance guide can help.
Find your next tractor
Browse used tractors for sale and farm machinery from dealers across the UK and Ireland. Selling? Dealers can list unlimited stock for £500 + VAT for 12 months, or WhatsApp 07470 093663.
