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  • Jack Alexander
  • March 26, 2024
Buyer-First Comparison

John Deere 1025R vs Kubota BX2680 — Which Subcompact is the Better Buy?

The 1025R and BX2680 are the two “top of the class” subcompacts most first-time buyers cross-shop. Both fit in a garage, run mid-mount mowers, push snow, and handle driveway and loader chores. Here’s the straight-talk head-to-head that starts at 500 mm forward, real hydraulics, and deck convenience.

TL;DR (Key Takeaways)
  • Loader truth: Deere publishes 500 mm forward numbers (653 lb), while Kubota brochures emphasize at-pins.
  • Hydraulics: Deere 3.5 × 3.5 GPM; Kubota 5.2 + 1.0 GPM, but implement flow is your loader speed.
  • Deck convenience: Deere’s AutoConnect + Load-N-Go vs Kubota’s Easy-Over MMM. Both are quick drive-over systems.
  • Quick-attach: Deere JDQA (SSQA needs adapter); Kubota’s two-lever coupler on LA344S matches SSQA pattern in field use.
Model Overview & What’s Included

John Deere 1025R
23.9 hp engine (18.2 PTO hp), HST 2-range, 3.5 + 3.5 GPM hydraulics (~2,000 PSI). Limited Cat-1 hitch rated 785 lb. Wheel ~1,556 lb, wheelbase 57.1", fuel 6.3 gal. Loader 120R with 830 lb @ pins, 553 lb @ 500 mm, breakout 1,985 lb. AutoConnect decks (54"/60") and optional 260B backhoe.

Kubota BX2680
24.8 hp engine (~19.5 PTO hp), HST 2-range, 5.2 + 1.0 GPM hydraulics. Cat-1 hitch rated 680 lb. Weight ~1,521 lb, wheelbase 55.1", fuel 6.6 gal. Loader LA344S with 2-lever coupler (500 mm forward not published). Easy-Over drive-over decks (54"/60") and BT603 backhoe (BX23S).

Only compare apples to apples: same tires, same loader, similar ballast, and use 500 mm forward specs when available.

Specs at a Glance — Head-to-Head
Spec 1025R BX2680 So what?
Engine HP 23.9 24.8 Same class power.
PTO HP 18.2 19.5 Both handle 4–5 ft implements.
Hydraulic Flow 3.5 + 3.5 (6.3) 5.2 + 1.0 (6.2) Implement GPM = loader speed.
Relief PSI ~2000 TBD Pressure equals usable force.
3-pt lift @ 24" 785 lb 680 lb Rear implement weight.
Weight 1,556 lb 1,521 lb Base weight ≠ ballast.
Loader lift @ 500 mm 553 lb Not Specified Forks live here.

Notes: Deere publishes forward specs; Kubota does not. Expect lower pin numbers.

Quick Comparison Matrix
  • Loader feel: Deere good (publishes forward); Kubota info (not published).
  • Drive: both transparent; both good (split-lift listed).
  • Deck attach: both good (AutoConnect vs Easy-Over).
  • Dealer footprint: Deere very broad; Kubota strong orange coverage.
  • Quick-attach: Deere JDQA (adapter needed); Kubota 2-lever SSQA-style coupler.
Hydraulics, Loader Geometry & Decks

Flow (GPM) = speed. Pressure (PSI) = bore × force. Deere’s 120R publishes both pins and 500 mm numbers; Kubota lists pins only. For mowing, Deere’s AutoConnect + Load-N-Go is fast; Kubota’s Easy-Over is also effective.

Ballast 101 — Liquid Tires vs Rear Counterweight

Filling tires adds stability but does not replace rear ballast. Loader manuals require a rear counterweight to protect the front axle and achieve rated lift.

Tires & Traction Quick Picks
  • Lawn/turf: Turf (R3) or R14 hybrids.
  • Loader/driveway: R4 or R14; add chains in winter.
  • Soft soil: R1 Ag if you accept lawn marking.

Tractor Tires Explained — R1 vs R4 vs R14.

Real-World Scenarios
  • Acreage + loader: Edge 1025R (publishes 500 mm).
  • Hobby farm w/ snow: Slight edge 1025R (AutoConnect workflow).
  • Residential mowing: Tie; pick by deck workflow and dealer.
  • Woods/trails: Edge BX2680 (SSQA-style coupler).
Buyer Worksheet — Quick Peek
  • Loader capacity @ 500 mm.
  • Hydraulic split + relief PSI.
  • Deck attach demo (AutoConnect vs Easy-Over).
  • Quick-attach style + adapter needs.
  • Warranty coverage terms.
FAQ
Why does Deere look weaker on paper?

Deere publishes lift capacity 500 mm forward instead of at pins — more realistic but smaller-looking numbers.

Which has faster hydraulics?

Kubota’s hydraulic GPM is slightly higher overall, but Deere’s loader circuit has a better balance of flow and pressure.

Deck convenience?

Deere’s AutoConnect + Load-N-Go system is completely tool-less, while Kubota’s Easy-Over requires lever steps.

Can I run SSQA implements?

Kubota BX2680 comes with an SSQA-style coupler; Deere’s 1025R needs an adapter to fit SSQA attachments.

Verdict — The Right Pick
  • Mowing / driveway: 1025R (AutoConnect + published loader data).
  • Loader/driveway: Close call; pick by coupler preference.
  • Attachment tinkering: BX2680 (SSQA-style coupler).
Upgrade, No Matter What You Buy

Owning a tractor is step one — upgrading your tractor is step two. Visit the Tractor Buyer Resource Center for more guides, and check out our page for high-quality tractor upgrades including chainsaw carriers, toolbox kits, and chassis protection for select models. Built in the USA, made for real-world work.

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