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Comparison · Wheel loader

Caterpillar 938 vs John Deere 644 P-Tier

The John Deere 644 P-Tier is about 15% heavier than the Caterpillar 938 (18,727 vs 16,229 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The John Deere 644 P-Tier has about 33% more engine power (186 kW (249 hp) vs 140 kW (188 hp)).

Beyond the numbers, compare local dealer support, parts availability and resale value for Caterpillar and John Deere in your region: over the life of a machine they often matter more than small specification differences.

Caterpillar 938
Caterpillar Caterpillar 938
John machine similar to the John Deere 644 P-Tier (related model may be pictured)
John Deere John Deere 644 P-Tier
Operating weight 16,229 kg (35,800 lb)18,727 kg (41,300 lb)
Engine power 140 kW (188 hp)186 kW (249 hp)
Net power ≈140 kW (188 hp)186 kW (249 hp) at 1,800 rpm
Bucket capacity 2.5–5.0 m³ (3.3–6.5 yd³)3.1–3.6 m³ (4.0–4.75 yd³); 3.2 m³ (4.25 yd³) reference
Static tipping load, full turn ≈9,860–9,950 kg (21,737–21,934 lb)—
Drive Hydrostatic—
Emissions US EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage VUS EPA Tier 4 Final
Bucket breakout force —≈153 kN (34,334 lbf), dealer data
Engine —John Deere PowerTech PSS 6068, 6.8 L
Telematics —JDLink
Related models —644 G-Tier (value); 644 X-Tier (hybrid-electric)
Strengths
  • + Largest of Cat’s small loaders — strong for aggregates
  • + Hydrostatic drive efficiency
  • + Next Gen cab and controls
  • + Cat support and resale
  • + Smooth ride and refined controls (EquipmentWorld test)
  • + 249 hp from a 6.8 L engine
  • + P-Tier Gen B updates add features (2025)
  • + Deere dealer support and JDLink
  • + X-Tier hybrid option in the same size class
Watch-outs
  • − Premium price
  • − Older 938M figures differ — check the generation
  • − Breakout and tipping data not widely published
  • − Limited support outside the Americas
Full 938 reviewFull 644 P-Tier review

Specifications are typical figures for standard configurations and may be measured differently by each manufacturer (for example net vs gross power). Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer. Build another comparison.