John Deere 2025R vs John Deere 3038R
Quick take: The John Deere 2025R costs $12,000 less; the John Deere 3038R has more engine power (37.1 vs 24.2 hp); the John Deere 3038R has more loader lift (1,701 vs 1,023 lbs).
| Spec | John Deere 2025R | John Deere 3038R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $22,500 | $34,500 |
| Rating | 4.6★ (620) | 4.7★ (540) |
| Category | Compact | Compact |
| Transmission | Hydrostatic | Hydrostatic |
| Engine HP | 24.2 hp | 37.1 hp |
| PTO HP | 18 hp | 30 hp |
| Loader Lift | 1023 lbs | 1701 lbs |
| 3-Point Lift | 1150 lbs | 2500 lbs |
| Hydraulic Flow | 6.4 GPM | 12.4 GPM |
| Drive | 4WD | 4WD |
| Engine | Yanmar | Yanmar |
| Weight | 1755 lbs | 3086 lbs |
| Fuel Tank | 5.4 gal | 9.5 gal |
| 4WD | Yes | Yes |
| Loader | Yes | Yes |
| Cab | No | No |
| Hydrostatic | Yes | Yes |
| Power steering | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise control | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 6 yr / 2000 hr powertrain | 6 yr / 2000 hr powertrain |
Pros & cons
John Deere 2025R
- ✓Much stronger 1,150 lb 3-point lift than the 1025R, so it handles heavier rear implements like box blades and rotary cutters far better
- ✓The 220R loader lifts over 1,000 lbs, a meaningful upgrade over the 1025R for material handling
- ✓Keeps the beloved AutoConnect drive-over mower deck, so you still mount the deck without leaving the seat
- ✓The longer wheelbase and extra weight give it a more planted, stable feel than the 1025R for loader and slope work
- ✓Same huge Deere dealer network and legendary resale value as the rest of the family
- ✓Cruise control standard on the HST makes long mowing sessions much easier on the operator
- ✓Independent PTO and Twin Touch pedals give the refined, beginner-friendly operation Deere is known for
- ✓It's a genuine step up in capability while still fitting in a standard garage and trailer easily
- ✗It costs noticeably more than a 1025R for only a modest bump in engine HP, so many owners debate whether it's worth the jump
- ✗Still only 24.2 engine HP and 18 PTO HP, so the power is unchanged from the 1025R - you're paying mostly for lift and size
- ✗The tiny 5.4-gallon fuel tank carries over, meaning frequent refueling on big jobs
- ✗Deere's proprietary loader and deck lock you out of cheaper third-party attachments
- ✗Fully equipped it pushes past $22K, encroaching on 3025E territory which has more real power
- ✗Ground clearance is still fairly low for rough terrain compared to a 3-series
- ✗The premium Deere pricing means a comparably capable Kubota LX or Kioti CK often costs less
- ✗For the money, some owners feel they should have stepped up to a 3025E for the extra engine grunt
John Deere 3038R
- ✓The turbocharged 37 HP Yanmar gives it real grunt - it handles heavy loader work, tillage, and a full-size rotary cutter with ease
- ✓2,500 lb 3-point lift and 12+ GPM hydraulics let it run demanding implements the E models can't touch
- ✓It's the premium 3R, so you get the refined cab-ready platform, deluxe seat, and the option of a factory cab
- ✓The eHydro with LoadMatch and MotionMatch is arguably the best hydrostatic in the compact class for feel and control
- ✓Optional PowrReverser 12/12 power-shuttle transmission is fantastic for loader work where you shuttle constantly
- ✓Turbo torque means it doesn't bog down like the naturally aspirated E models under heavy load
- ✓Same excellent Deere dealer support and class-leading resale value
- ✓Standard cruise and premium hydraulics with extra selective control valves make it genuinely versatile
- ✗It's expensive - loaded it approaches or exceeds $35K, close to what a larger 4-series utility tractor costs
- ✗The premium price is a big jump over the 3038E which has the same 37 HP class for far less money
- ✗At this price many buyers question whether they should step up to a bigger, more capable utility tractor
- ✗Turbo and premium electronics add complexity that DIY owners find harder to service than a simple L-series Kubota
- ✗The many options and configurations can make ordering and pricing confusing
- ✗Still a compact frame, so it can't match a true utility tractor for sustained heavy field work
- ✗Deere's proprietary loader and attachments limit cheaper aftermarket choices
- ✗The value-minded see a comparably specced Kubota L or Kioti DK delivering similar capability for thousands less