Kubota BX23S vs BX2380: Which Sub-Compact Should You Buy?

📊 Quick Summary

The Kubota BX23S and BX2380 share the same engine, same chassis, and same ground clearance — they are not different tractors, they are different configurations of the same tractor. The BX2380 is the mower and loader version. The BX23S is the factory TLB (tractor-loader-backhoe) version. The decision between them comes down to one question: do you need a backhoe?

Bottom line: If you genuinely need a backhoe for drainage work, trenching, stump removal, or new property development — buy the BX23S. If mowing and light loader work are your primary tasks — buy the BX2380 and save $8,000-$10,000. There is no in-between option because you cannot add Kubota’s factory backhoe to a BX2380 after the fact.

⚠️ READ THIS FIRST: You cannot add the Kubota BT603 backhoe to a BX2380 after purchase. The BX23S has a reinforced frame, specific subframe geometry, and a reversible seat arrangement specifically engineered for TLB use. If you think you might want a backhoe someday, decide now — because retrofitting is not a practical option on the BX80 platform.

Quick Decision Guide

1
Choose BX23S if:

You need a backhoe for drainage, trenching, stump removal, or land development. You’re buying a new property and anticipate significant digging work. You want factory-integrated TLB with full warranty coverage on the entire system. You’re comparing against used BX25D TLBs and want current-generation hardware.

2
Choose BX2380 if:

Mowing and light loader work are 80-90% of your tasks. You want maximum budget for implements like a box blade, rotary cutter, or snow blower. Your property is established and doesn’t require significant earthmoving. You can rent a mini-excavator on the rare occasions you need digging power.

Full Specifications: BX23S vs BX2380

Both models share the Kubota D902 engine and BX80 platform. Spec differences are almost entirely about configuration, not capability:

Specification	Kubota BX23S	Kubota BX2380
Engine	Kubota D902, 3-cyl diesel	Kubota D902, 3-cyl diesel
Gross HP	21.6 hp @ 3,200 rpm	21.6 hp @ 3,200 rpm
PTO HP	17.7 hp	17.7 hp
Torque	~41.4 lb-ft	~41.4 lb-ft
Fuel Tank	6.6 gal	6.6 gal
Wheelbase	55.1 in	55.1 in
Overall Width	45.1 in	45.1 in
Ground Clearance	8.4 in	8.4 in
ROPS Height	86.2 in (backhoe ROPS)	83.1 in
Turning Radius	7.5 ft	7.5 ft
Tractor Weight (bare)	1,570 lb (with loader valve)	1,443 lb
TLB Operating Weight	~2,600 lb (approx)	N/A — no backhoe
Front Tires	18×8.5-10	18×8.5-10
Rear Tires	26×12-12	26×12-12
Loader	LA340S (Swift-Tach) standard	LA344S optional
Backhoe	BT603 standard	None — cannot add
Seat	Reversible (tractor/backhoe)	High-back deluxe with armrests
Mid PTO	2,500 rpm	2,500 rpm
Rear PTO	540 rpm	540 rpm

Loader Comparison: LA340S vs LA344S

Both loaders are from the same BX80 family with nearly identical geometry and performance. The LA340S on the BX23S uses Swift-Tach quick attach; the LA344S on the BX2380 uses the same system. For practical purposes these are the same loader:

Loader Spec	BX23S — LA340S	BX2380 — LA344S
Max Lift Height (pivot pin)	71.0 in	71.0 in
Lift Capacity at Pivot Pin	739 lb	739 lb
Lift Capacity at 500mm Forward	509 lb	613 lb
Breakout Force	978-987 lbf	901-978 lbf
Dump Clearance at Full Height	52.1 in	50.7 in
Dig Depth Below Grade	4.9-5.3 in	4.8-5.2 in
Raise Cycle Time	3.3-3.5 sec	3.3-3.5 sec
Standard Bucket Width	48 in	48 in

💡 Key Takeaway: The loaders are essentially identical. Any loader accessory that fits the BX23S fits the BX2380 and vice versa. This is not a factor in your buying decision — both give you the same 739 lb lift capacity and 71″ max height.

🔧 Essential Loader Accessories (Both Models)

1. VEVOR 43″ Clamp-On Pallet Forks

Transforms both loaders instantly: Clamp-on design fits the 48″ buckets on both the LA340S and LA344S without a dedicated plate. 4,000 lb rated capacity — though both loaders top out at 739 lb at the pin, so your tractor’s limit still applies. Essential for feed pallets, lumber, and firewood. Installs in 5 minutes flat. For more loader upgrades see our pallet fork installation guide.

⭐ 4.2 stars, 531 reviews

2. YITAMOTOR 800 lb Ballast Box

Critical for safe loader operation on both models: The BX platform at 1,400-1,570 lb bare is light. Rear ballast prevents front-end lift at full loader capacity. Fill with concrete blocks or gravel. Not optional when doing serious loader work — especially on the BX23S which adds 600+ lb of backhoe weight at the rear. See our ballast weight guide for sizing tips.

⭐ 4.3 stars, 639 reviews

3. Mytee 60″ Bucket Cutting Edge

Protect your 48″ bucket investment: AR400 reversible steel cutting edge. Verify sizing — both the LA340S and LA344S run 48″ standard buckets; a 48-54″ cutting edge is the right range. Replace the $130 edge before it destroys the $800+ bucket shell.

⭐ Best durability pick for BX loader buckets

The BT603 Backhoe: What the BX23S Adds

The BT603 is factory-engineered specifically for the BX23S platform — not an afterthought, not an aftermarket add-on. It’s the reason the BX23S exists as a separate product:

BT603 Backhoe Spec	BX23S	BX2380
Backhoe	BT603 — Standard	None — Cannot Add
Dig Depth	73 in (~6 ft 1 in)	N/A
Reach from Swing Pivot	8 ft 7 in	N/A
Bucket Digging Force	1,936 lbf	N/A
Dipperstick Force	1,171 lbf	N/A
Swing Arc	140°	N/A
Bucket Rotation	180°	N/A
Backhoe Weight	607 lb (with 12″ bucket)	N/A
Attachment System	Swift-Connect (one lever)	N/A

The BT603’s 73″ dig depth — just over 6 feet — handles the vast majority of homeowner digging tasks: drainage tile, utility lines, fence posts, small tree stumps, and retaining wall footings. It won’t replace a full-size excavator on a commercial site, but for a 1-10 acre property it covers most earthmoving needs. Owner consensus from TractorByNet is clear: the BT603 is smooth, predictable, and capable for the work most BX buyers actually do.

💡 Know the Limitation: Serious excavation beyond 6 feet, large stump grinding, or commercial-scale digging will push the BT603 to its limits. Buyers who frequently need deeper work often wish they’d stepped up to a B-series TLB like the B26 with the larger BT751 backhoe. If your property needs heavy digging regularly, see our BX vs B vs L series guide before committing to the BX23S.

⛏️ BX23S Backhoe Accessories

1. ECOTRIC Universal Backhoe Thumb

The single best upgrade for BX23S owners: Bolt-on thumb explicitly compatible with Kubota, fits 3.25″ boom width — the BT603 spec. Transforms the backhoe from a pure digger into a grapple that can grab stumps, rocks, pipes, and debris. 4.3 stars, 250 reviews. Without a thumb the BT603 can only push and pull — with a thumb it can grip and carry. This is the upgrade BX23S owners wish they’d ordered from day one.

⭐ 4.3 stars, 250 reviews – “Game changer for stump work”

2. Truper 30162 Post Hole Digger / Tamping Bar 69″

Essential companion to backhoe work: The BT603 gets you close but a 16 lb tamping bar finishes the job — breaking rock pockets the bucket can’t crack, cleaning up trench corners, and tamping backfill. 4.5 stars, 134 reviews. Every BX23S owner doing drainage, fencing, or utility work should have one in the tractor shed.

⭐ 4.5 stars, 134 reviews

3. Heavy-Duty Grease Gun

BT603 has multiple grease points that need attention every 50 hours: Backhoe pivot pins, boom pivots, bucket linkages — all have zerk fittings that wear rapidly when neglected. The BT603 adds significantly more grease points than a tractor-only BX2380. A quality lever-action grease gun makes the job fast. For full Kubota greasing locations see our 50-hour service guide.

⭐ Non-negotiable for backhoe owners

Mid-Mount Mower: Same Decks, Different Setup

Both models support the same RCK deck options — 48″, 54″, and 60″ conventional suspended decks, plus 54″ and 60″ Easy-Over drive-over decks. The mowing capability is identical. The difference is in how each tractor handles deck attachment:

BX2380 Mowing Setup

Easy-Over deck attaches directly, no adapter needed
Drive over the deck, lock rear lock, connect PTO coupler
6″ deck transport clearance — class-leading
High-back deluxe seat with armrests for long mowing sessions
Simpler rear area without backhoe subframe

BX23S Mowing Setup

Easy-Over deck requires optional Drive-Over Mower Attachment Kit
Backhoe must be detached or worked around for rear implement use
Reversible seat is functional but less comfortable for long mowing
Same 6″ deck transport clearance once kit is installed
54″ and 60″ Easy-Over compatible with proper kit

⚠️ BX23S Mowing Caveat: If you buy a BX23S and plan to do a lot of mowing, factor in the cost of the Drive-Over Mower Attachment Kit plus the reversible seat’s reduced comfort on long sessions. For buyers where mowing is the primary task, the BX2380’s simpler setup and deluxe seat are genuine advantages.

🌿 BX2380 Mowing Essentials

1. 8TEN LawnRAZOR High Lift Blades — BX2380 60″ Deck (3 Pack)

Best aftermarket blades for the RCK60D-26BX deck: Fits BX2380, BX2360, BX24, BX22, BX2660, BX2200D with 60″ deck, replaces K5371-99040. High lift design improves discharge and prevents clumping in thick grass. At $59.95 versus $120+ for OEM blades, this is the smartest annual maintenance purchase for BX2380 owners. Change every season or when you see tip wear. For full deck maintenance see our BX2380 service guide.

⭐ Direct OEM replacement, fraction of the cost

2. XYZIL Hydraulic Filter

Annual hydraulic filter change keeps both models running right: Contaminated hydraulic fluid is the #1 cause of loader valve wear and mid-PTO deck engagement sluggishness on the BX platform. Change every 200-400 hours or annually. At $15-25 per filter this is the cheapest insurance available against an $800+ hydraulic repair on either model.

⭐ Don’t skip on annual service

3. Kubota Filter Maintenance Kit

Engine oil, air, and fuel filters for annual BX service: Both the BX23S and BX2380 run the same D902 engine with identical filter requirements. Stock one kit before each season — the BX platform’s scheduled maintenance is straightforward and doing it yourself saves $150-200 per service visit. Check compatibility before ordering. See our complete Kubota maintenance guide for full interval details.

⭐ Same filters for both models

🚜 Right-Sized Implements for BX Series

1. KUAFU 55″ Box Blade – $299.00

Perfectly sized for the BX platform: The BX series Category I hitch and sub-1,000 lb lift capacity makes 48-55″ the practical box blade range. This KUAFU unit handles driveway touch-up, garden bed prep, and light grading at a price that leaves budget for other implements. Going larger than 55″ on the BX risks overloading the 3-point hitch. See our box blade setup guide for sizing and adjustment tips.

⭐ 4.0 stars, 27 reviews

2. Category 1 Quick Hitch

30-second implement swaps on both models: Compatible with both BX23S and BX2380 Category I 3-point hitches. If you’re running a box blade, rotary cutter, and tiller through the season this is the highest-impact convenience upgrade available. On the BX23S this is especially valuable since rear implement changeover around the backhoe subframe is already more time-consuming. Check out our best implements for new owners guide for more ideas.

⭐ Best time-saving upgrade for either model

Pricing: The $8,000-$10,000 Backhoe Decision

Package	BX2380	BX23S
Tractor + Loader	~$20,000-$23,000	N/A (sold as TLB only)
TLB Package	N/A (no backhoe option)	~$30,000-$32,000
Typical Dealer Discount	5-10% off package	5-10% off package
0% Financing Available	Yes — 60-84 months	Yes — 60-84 months
Resale	Very strong — broad buyer pool	Strong — TLBs always in demand

💡 The Rental Math: A mini-excavator rental runs $300-$500/day in most markets. If you’d use a backhoe fewer than 20-25 days per year, the BX2380 plus occasional rental is often cheaper over a 5-year ownership period than the BX23S premium. If you’d use it more than that — or if rental availability in your area is limited — the BX23S pays for itself. Run your own numbers before deciding. Use our tractor repair vs replace calculator for help with cost comparisons.

Use-Case Winners

Use Case	Winner	Why
Lawn mowing (primary task)	🟠 BX2380	Simpler setup, deluxe seat, no adapter needed for Easy-Over deck
Loader work (mulch, gravel, snow)	🟡 Tie	Identical loader specs — same 739 lb lift, same 71″ height
Backhoe / digging work	🟠 BX23S	Only option with factory BT603 — BX2380 cannot be retrofitted
New property development	🟠 BX23S	Drainage, trenching, stump removal — backhoe earns its keep daily
Established 1-3 acre property	🟠 BX2380	Save $8-10K, use rental excavator on rare digging days
Tight spaces / maneuverability	🟠 BX2380	Same turning radius but shorter without backhoe — easier near buildings
Long-term ownership / resale	🟡 Tie	Both hold value well — TLBs have strong demand, BX2380 has broader buyer pool
Budget for implements	🟠 BX2380	$8-10K savings buys a rotary cutter, snow blower, AND box blade

What Real Owners Say

BX23S Owner Feedback

Love: The Swift-Tach and Swift-Connect systems make loader and backhoe attachment genuinely fast. BT603 is smooth and predictable for trenching, drainage, and stump work. Fits in a standard garage and on a 16-18 ft trailer. Factory integration means full warranty coverage on everything.

Complaints: Some owners realize they use the backhoe less than expected and feel they over-bought versus a BX2380 plus rental. The 6 ft dig depth feels limiting for deeper work — buyers with serious excavation needs wish they’d stepped up to a B-series TLB. Rear implement changeover around the backhoe subframe takes more time.

BX2380 Owner Feedback

Love: Mowing quality with RCK54/60 decks is excellent. Easy-Over deck attachment is genuinely easy. Low center of gravity and 6″ deck clearance in transport are praised. Often cited as the value leader vs John Deere 1025R for mowing and loader use.

Complaints: Loader lift occasionally disappoints buyers who expected more than 739 lb capacity — some wish they’d bought a B-series for heavier work. A few buyers later wish they’d bought the BX23S when digging needs emerge after purchase. Ground clearance at 8.4″ limits rough terrain work.

5 Buyer Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Mistake #1: Assuming you can add the backhoe to a BX2380 later. You cannot. The BX23S has a reinforced frame and specific subframe geometry. If you think you might want a backhoe in the next 3-5 years, decide now — before you write the check for a BX2380.

❌ Mistake #2: Buying the BX23S because it “seems like more tractor.” It’s not more tractor — it’s the same tractor with a backhoe attached. If backhoe work isn’t genuinely in your plans, you’re paying $8-10K for 607 lb of equipment you won’t use.

❌ Mistake #3: Underestimating BX platform ground clearance limits. Both models sit at 8.4″ ground clearance — lower than the B or L series. If your property has rough terrain, woods, or uneven ground, see our BX vs B series comparison before buying either BX model.

❌ Mistake #4: Expecting the BT603 to replace a full-size excavator. The 6 ft 1 in dig depth handles most homeowner needs but won’t match a dedicated mini-excavator on depth or digging force. Set realistic expectations — the BT603 is a capable small backhoe, not a construction excavator.

❌ Mistake #5: Not comparing the BX23S to B-series TLBs. The B26 TLB with BT751 backhoe offers significantly more dig depth and digging force at a comparable price point. If you’re spending $30,000+ and need serious digging capability, compare the BX23S against the B26 before deciding. See our B-series comparison guide for context.

Frequently Asked Questions

QCan I add a backhoe to the BX2380?

No. The Kubota BT603 backhoe is engineered specifically for the BX23S’s reinforced frame and subframe geometry. You cannot add it to a BX2380 after purchase. If you want a backhoe, you must buy the BX23S from the start.

QIs the BX23S more powerful than the BX2380?

No. Both use the identical Kubota D902 engine — 21.6 gross HP, 17.7 PTO HP, same torque. The BX23S is not a more powerful tractor. It is the same tractor configured as a TLB with a backhoe standard.

QHow deep can the BX23S backhoe dig?

The BT603 backhoe on the BX23S has a maximum dig depth of 73 inches — just over 6 feet. This handles most homeowner digging tasks including drainage tile, utility lines, fence posts, and small stump removal. For deeper work you’d need a larger machine.

QWhich is better for mowing — BX23S or BX2380?

The BX2380 is the better mowing tractor. Same deck options and mowing capability, but simpler Easy-Over deck attachment without an adapter kit, a more comfortable high-back deluxe seat for long sessions, and a cleaner rear end without backhoe subframe. If mowing is your primary task, BX2380 wins.

QWhat is the BX23S replacing?

The BX23S is the current-generation BX80 platform TLB, replacing the older BX25D which used the LA435 loader and BT825 backhoe. The BX25D had more dig depth (~7.5 ft) and slightly more loader capacity, but the BX23S brings updated Swift-Tach and Swift-Connect quick-attach systems. Both the BX23S and BX2380 remain in active production — neither is being phased out.

QHow does the BX23S compare to John Deere 1025R?

The BX23S is a TLB with backhoe standard — the 1025R has no factory backhoe option. For straight tractor comparison, the BX2380 is the better head-to-head against the 1025R. See our full Kubota vs John Deere 1025R comparison for the complete breakdown.

QWhich holds resale value better?

Both hold value very well. The BX23S as a complete TLB has strong demand — small TLBs are consistently sought after in the used market. The BX2380 has a broader buyer pool of mowing and loader buyers, which also supports strong resale. Condition, hours, and attachments matter far more than which model you chose at purchase.

QWhere does the BX23S fit in the full Kubota lineup?

The BX23S occupies the same 21.6 HP power slot as the BX2380 in the BX80 series. Above it sits the BX2680 at 24.8 HP for more PTO power. For buyers who need more capability than the BX platform offers — more ground clearance, more loader capacity, more 3-point lift — the B2601 or L2501 are the next steps up. See our BX vs B vs L series guide for the complete picture.

QCan the BX23S use a mid-mount mower deck?

Yes, but it requires an optional Drive-Over Mower Attachment Kit. Both the 54″ and 60″ Easy-Over decks are compatible with the BX23S once the kit is installed. The deck specs and mowing performance are identical to the BX2380 — the only difference is the extra setup step and kit cost.

QIs the BX platform right for wooded or rough terrain?

The BX platform’s 8.4″ ground clearance is limiting on rough terrain, in woods, and on uneven ground. Both the BX23S and BX2380 share this limitation. If your property has rough trails, stumps, or significant grade changes, the B2601 with 12″+ clearance is a better fit. See our BX vs B series comparison for the full ground clearance discussion.

Final Verdict

The BX23S vs BX2380 decision is actually one of the clearest buying decisions in the Kubota lineup — because the question is simple: do you need a backhoe?

If yes — buy the BX23S. The factory integration, full warranty coverage, and Swift-Connect system make it the only sensible choice if backhoe work is genuinely in your plans. You cannot add it later, so decide now.

If no — buy the BX2380. Save $8,000-$10,000, get a more comfortable mowing setup, and spend the difference on implements that will get used every season. A rotary cutter, snow blower, and box blade all fit in that savings gap. If you need digging power on rare occasions, rent a mini-excavator.

Both machines are excellent. Both will outlast their owners with proper maintenance. The right choice is the one that matches what you’ll actually do with it — not the one that sounds more capable on paper. 🚜

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