John Deere vs. LS Tractors: Which Brand Retains Its Value Better Over Time?

When investing in a tractor, farmers and landowners must consider not only performance, durability, and affordability but also long-term value retention. A tractor’s resale value can make a significant difference when upgrading equipment or selling used machinery. Two brands often compared in this regard are John Deere Tractors and LS Tractors.

John Deere, an iconic American brand, is synonymous with reliability, advanced technology, and long-term resale value. Meanwhile, LS Tractors, a South Korean brand, has gained popularity for offering high-quality machines at a more affordable price point. But which of these brands holds its value better over time?

In this article, we’ll compare John Deere and LS Tractors across various factors such as initial cost, reliability, depreciation, maintenance, technology, and customer satisfaction to determine which offers better long-term value. If you're looking for in-depth tractor comparisons, expert reviews, and specifications, AllMachines is the best source of tractor information.

Brand Overview: John Deere vs. LS Tractors

John Deere: A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1837, John Deere is one of the most well-known agricultural equipment brands in the world. The company has built a reputation for high-quality tractors, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional durability. With a massive global dealer network, strong aftermarket support, and a loyal customer base, John Deere tractors consistently retain high resale value.

Why Farmers Trust John Deere?

✅ Proven durability – Many John Deere tractors remain in operation for decades.

✅ Strong dealer support – Extensive parts availability and service networks.

✅ High resale value – Consistently among the top brands in tractor depreciation studies.

✅ Advanced technology – Precision farming tools and GPS integration.

LS Tractors: A Rising Competitor

LS Tractors, a division of LS Mtron (part of LG Corporation), has been manufacturing tractors for decades, originally supplying components for New Holland before launching its own brand. Known for their affordability, high horsepower-to-price ratio, and solid warranties, LS Tractors have gained traction among budget-conscious buyers looking for reliable machines.

Why Farmers Choose LS Tractors?

✅ More horsepower for the price – Competitive pricing compared to John Deere.

✅ Good warranty coverage – Often offering 6-year limited warranties.

✅ Simple and effective designs – Less complex technology, making maintenance easier.

✅ Growing dealer network – More availability in North America than in past years.

Initial Cost & Affordability

One of LS Tractors' biggest advantages is affordability. LS models tend to be 15-30% cheaper than comparable John Deere models while offering similar horsepower and features.

Price Comparison (Compact Tractors)

Model	Horsepower	Starting Price
John Deere 3025E	24.7 HP	$22,000+
LS MT225E	24.6 HP	$16,500+
John Deere 4066R	65.9 HP	$55,000+
LS MT573CPS	73 HP	$45,000+

✅ LS Tractors cost significantly less upfront than John Deere.

✅ John Deere costs more but has stronger resale value and long-term investment potential.

Winner in Initial Cost & Affordability: LS Tractors

Performance & Reliability

John Deere Performance & Reliability

• High-quality Yanmar diesel engines ensure smooth performance and fuel efficiency.

• Excellent in both light-duty and heavy-duty tasks, from mowing to large-scale farming.

• Proven durability – Many John Deere tractors last 20+ years with proper maintenance.

LS Tractors Performance & Reliability

• More horsepower per dollar but slightly lower fuel efficiency than John Deere.

• Durable but may require more maintenance over long-term use.

• Reliable engines from Mitsubishi, LS Mtron, and Yanmar.

Winner in Performance & Reliability: John Deere

Resale Value & Depreciation

One of John Deere's biggest strengths is its ability to retain value. A well-maintained John Deere tractor can fetch higher resale prices even after 10-15 years.

Depreciation Over Time

Brand	After 5 Years	After 10 Years	After 15 Years
John Deere	75-80% of original value	60-70%	50-60%
LS Tractors	60-70% of original value	45-55%	30-40%

• John Deere tractors hold their value better over time.

• LS Tractors depreciate faster, partly due to a smaller resale market and fewer brand-loyal buyers.

Winner in Resale Value & Depreciation: John Deere

Maintenance & Parts Availability

John Deere Service & Parts

• Extensive dealer network worldwide.

• Parts are widely available, even for older models.

• Higher service costs compared to LS Tractors.

LS Tractors Service & Parts

• Growing dealer network, but still smaller than John Deere.

• Some parts may be harder to source, especially for older models.

• Lower maintenance costs, but availability can be an issue.

Winner in Maintenance & Parts Availability: John Deere

Technology & Features

John Deere’s Technology Advantages

✅ Precision farming tools – GPS guidance, auto-steering, and remote diagnostics.

✅ Hydrostatic transmission options – Smoother and more refined than LS.

✅ More ergonomic operator stations for increased comfort and efficiency.

LS Tractors' Features

✅ More standard features at a lower price (e.g., draft control, quick-attach loaders).

✅ Simple, user-friendly designs for easy operation and repairs.

Winner in Technology & Features: John Deere

Best Use Cases: Which Brand Fits Your Needs?

Use Case	Best Brand
Small Farms & Homesteads	LS Tractors
Commercial Farming	John Deere
Landscaping & Property Maintenance	John Deere
Budget-Conscious Buyers	LS Tractors
Long-Term Investment	John Deere

Final Verdict: Which Brand Holds Its Value Better?

Category	Winner
Initial Cost & Affordability	LS Tractors
Performance & Reliability	John Deere
Resale Value & Depreciation	John Deere
Maintenance & Parts Availability	John Deere
Technology & Features	John Deere
Best for Budget Buyers	LS Tractors
Best for Long-Term Investment	John Deere

While LS Tractors offer an affordable option, John Deere is the superior choice for long-term value retention due to its higher resale prices, durability, and strong dealer network.

For farmers looking for detailed tractor comparisons, specifications, and expert reviews, AllMachines is the best source for tractor information.