What Qualifies as a Mid-Size Tractor?

Tractor models that fall into the mid-size tractor category can depend on perspective and often hinges on the size of the property and the intended use case. Most commercial farmers and growers look at a 5-series tractor as a small tractor, while homeowners often consider a 3-series to be a mid-size tractor.

At Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf, we categorize our 5-series and 6-series utility tractors as mid-size tractors. These Utility tractors offer more power and comfort than the smaller compact tractors (1 Series - 4 Series) while also offering better fuel economy than the larger agriculture or row crop tractors. Falling in the middle of John Deere’s machinery lineup, makes mid-size tractors a reliable, high quality option for larger property or small farm maintenance.

Whether you are looking to purchase a tractor for the first time, expanding your fleet of equipment, or replacing a tractor that no longer meets your needs, we can help you find the best utility tractor for your application.

With that in mind, here are our picks for the best mid-size tractors for the money:

John Deere 5100M

The John Deere 5100M is a 100 horsepower tractor ideal for mid- to high-acreage property owners that need powerful lifting capabilities, horsepower, and torque. With a category 2 hitch and 85 horsepower PTO, you can run just about any field implements you need without having to worry about overheating. The 5100M utility tractor model offers a variety of options to customize the tractor to your application needs including:

• 12F/4R, 16F/16R, and 32F/16R transmission options
• Open station or climate-controlled cab
• 2WD or 4WD

Value pricing on the 5100M utility tractors start at less than $80,000*.

John Deere 5125R

The 2019 5R series received a few major updates that earn this model a top spot on our list. The 5125R utility tractor offers a 125 horsepower engine and now comes with the option of factory-installed technology including AutoTrac™ and JDLink™. John Deere also added a panoramic cab window to give operators 80% more upward visibility, making loader work easier and safer. Additionally, the 5125R leads the field for tightest turn radius for a tractor in this category with a 7.4-foot wheelbase and a 60-degree steering angle, which really comes in handy when working in tight spaces.

Horse, dairy, and hay producers love this tractor because it offers a lot of the features you would find in a much larger row crop tractor with the maneuverability of a much smaller tractor.

Value pricing on the 5125R utility tractors start at less than $$95,000*.

John Deere 6130M

Hydraulic performance is the standout feature on the John Deere 6-series. The 6130M model handles large implements easily, comes standard with a powerful 540/1000 rpm reversible PTO, and offers load sensing hydraulic systems. Whether you’re baling hay, mowing, spraying, or cleaning out feed bunks, the 6130M 130 horsepower utility tractor can handle it all with an array of implements that switch out quickly and easily.

Options on the 6130M include:

• 2WD or 4WD
• Open station or climate-controlled cab
• Multiple transmission options including CommandQuad PLUS, PowerQuad, and AutoQuad

Value pricing on the 6130M utility tractors start at less than $120,000*.

John Deere 6130R

Very similar to the 6130M John Deere tractor, the 6130R model offers the same powerful 130 horsepower engine with a few extra comfort features that really make a difference if you spend a lot of time in the operator’s seat. The 6130R model comes standard with a larger ComfortView cab, adjustable seat & controls for ergonomic comfort, storage compartments, cup holder, LED lights, and more.

This model is a great choice for farmers or customers looking for a municipal unit capable of towing, pushing, and lifting, and is compatible with a wide selection of front and rear implement options from Frontier.

Value pricing on the 6130R utility tractors start at less than $155,000*.

What Else to Consider

Resale Value

One important consideration when you’re looking at purchasing a mid-size tractor is resale value and John Deere tractors hold their value better than any other tractor manufacturer. If your application needs to change down the line and you want to get a larger or smaller tractor, it’s good to know you can re-sell your tractor for the most money.

Maintenance & Repair Costs

The best mid-size tractor for your money can only really be determined when you factor in maintenance and repair costs over the span of owning the tractor. John Deere tractors have a reputation for reliability that can’t be beaten.

Dealer Reputation and Warranty

Don’t forget to consider your local dealership’s reputation for customer service and their warranty program. A 10-year powertrain warranty, like the one offered at Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf, can make a huge difference in your total cost of ownership if major repairs end up being required.

Get a Quote Today

If you’re looking for a mid-size tractor for sale that’s reliable and won’t overheat, any of the utility tractors on this list will serve you well. Reach out to Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf, your local John Deere dealer, for a complete quote on any of the models listed here with the customized options you need.

Looking for something bigger or smaller? We also carry the full catalog of John Deere tractors available including compact and row crop tractors.

*This value should only be seen as an estimated cost and is based on current dealer pricing. Final pricing may vary based on location, incentives, financing, and attachments.