John Deere 1E-23 vs Kubota BX23S
Both sit in the Sub-Compact class with similar engine horsepower (21.5 vs 21.6 HP). Below: catalog Facts for engine horsepower, weight, and rear lift; PTO and hitch only when verified. The decision points call out who leads on each Fact — engine HP is not a substitute for PTO HP.
Engine horsepower is not PTO horsepower. Missing Facts show as — — we never invent shaft ratings.
John Deere 1E-23 Profile →Kubota BX23S Profile →Fit checker →
How to choose
- Engine horsepower is essentially even (21.5 HP) — decide on lift, PTO, and implements, not the hood number alone.
- Kubota BX23S is heavier (1,598 vs 1,475 lb operating weight) — usually more stability and traction; John Deere 1E-23 stays easier to maneuver in tight yards.
- John Deere 1E-23 has more rear lift (758 vs 680 lb @ 24″) — more headroom for heavier three-point tools. Kubota BX23S needs lighter implements or stricter ballast discipline.
- Both list Limited Category I — hitch class alone does not settle the matchup; lift and PTO still decide implement fit.
- Kubota BX23S has the higher verified PTO rating (17.7 vs 16.2 PTO HP) — that is the Fact for cutters, tillers, and snow blowers, not engine HP.
- Next step: open the Fit checker with the tractor that wins on your heaviest implement, and screen hitch, PTO, and lift against that attachment.
When to pick each
Choose John Deere 1E-23 when you need more rear lift (758 vs 680 lb @ 24″) for heavier three-point tools, or lower operating weight (1,475 vs 1,598 lb) for tight yards.
Choose Kubota BX23S when you need higher verified PTO (17.7 vs 16.2 PTO HP) for cutters, tillers, or snow blowers, or more frame mass (1,598 vs 1,475 lb) for traction and stability.
Spec comparison
| Spec | John Deere 1E-23 | Kubota BX23S |
|---|---|---|
| Size class | Sub-Compact | Sub-Compact |
| Engine horsepower | 21.5 HP | 21.6 HP |
| Operating weight | 1,475 lbs | 1,598 lbs |
| Rear hitch lift @ 24″ | 758 lbs @ 24″ | 680 lbs @ 24″ |
| Hitch category | Limited Category I | Limited Category I |
| PTO horsepower | 16.2 PTO HP | 17.7 PTO HP |
| PTO RPM | 540 RPM | 540 RPM |
Sources
FAQ
- Which is better — John Deere 1E-23 or Kubota BX23S?
- Engine horsepower is essentially even (21.5 HP) — decide on lift, PTO, and implements, not the hood number alone. Kubota BX23S is heavier (1,598 vs 1,475 lb operating weight) — usually more stability and traction; John Deere 1E-23 stays easier to maneuver in tight yards. Choose John Deere 1E-23 when you need more rear lift (758 vs 680 lb @ 24″) for heavier three-point tools, or lower operating weight (1,475 vs 1,598 lb) for tight yards. Choose Kubota BX23S when you need higher verified PTO (17.7 vs 16.2 PTO HP) for cutters, tillers, or snow blowers, or more frame mass (1,598 vs 1,475 lb) for traction and stability. Use the Fit checker for your heaviest attachment instead of comparing engine HP alone.
- Are these numbers invented?
- No. Engine HP, weight, and rear lift come from catalog Facts; PTO/hitch only from verified overlays. Missing Facts show as — — we never invent shaft ratings.
- How do I check attachments?
- Open the Fit checker with John Deere 1E-23 or Kubota BX23S, pick an attachment type and model, and read Pass/Fail/Partial on hitch, PTO, and lift.