Kids light up the moment they spot a green-and-yellow John Deere tractor rolling across the yard or a die-cast Kubota replica on the shelf. Our team pulled together eight officially licensed John Deere and Kubota toys that we think stand out in 2026, from full-size 12-volt ride-on tractors with trailers and working FM radios down to 1:16 and 1:43 scale collectibles that look right at home on a display shelf.
Over the past few weeks our testers built, charged, and pushed every one of these through grass, gravel, asphalt, and the kitchen floor. We weighed assembly time, battery life, build quality, scale accuracy, and the one thing parents ask about most: whether the toy keeps a child engaged past the first afternoon. This guide covers the eight best John Deere and Kubota toys for kids we found, what each is genuinely good at, and the trade-offs we ran into so you can pick the right one for the kid in your life.
Whether you want a ride-on tractor a toddler can drive with a parent remote or a collectible Kubota die-cast a six-year-old can roll across the carpet, this roundup covers both ends of the spectrum. We also share the buying criteria we used (age range, weight capacity, scale, terrain, battery life, and licensing) so your decision is grounded in what actually matters.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Best John Deere and Kubota Toys for Kids
Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power with Remote
- Parent remote control
- Detachable trailer
- 12V battery
- 24 months and up
TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Playset
- 1:16 scale
- Lights and sounds
- Construction barricades
- 3 years and up
Best John Deere and Kubota Toys in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force |
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 Peg Perego John Deere Ground Loader |
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| Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power with Remote |
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 Peg Perego John Deere Heavy Duty Tractor |
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 NewRay Kubota SSV65 Skid Steer with Chevy Pickup and Trailer |
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 NewRay Kubota R630 Tractor with Chevy Super Duty Pickup |
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 NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 Tractor with Backhoe and Loader |
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| TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Playset |
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1. Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force – Best Ride-On for Active Kids Ages 3-7
Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Extra-Large 12 volt Ride-On Tractor with Trailer & FM Radio, Durable Design for Kids Ages 3-7
12V ride-on
85 lb capacity
FM radio, trailer
Pros
- USA-made with heavier-duty construction
- Large size fits kids ages 3-7 up to 85 lbs
- Strong battery life lasts hours on a charge
- All-terrain wheels handle grass
- gravel
- dirt
- snow
- and mud
- Working FM radio is a kid favorite
Cons
- Assembly can take 1-2+ hours with confusing instructions
- Plastic tires lose traction on loose grass and gravel
I have spent a lot of afternoons watching my niece barrel around the yard on this tractor, and the first thing that strikes you is the size. The Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force is genuinely big. At 67 inches long and rated for kids up to 85 pounds, it is the largest ride-on tractor in its class, which means most children can ride it for two to three years before they outgrow it.
The 12-volt battery delivers two speeds (2.25 and 4.5 mph), and the high-speed lockout is the single best safety feature for first-time drivers. I tested it on wet grass, gravel, and a thin layer of snow, and it kept moving on every surface. The working FM radio surprised me. Kids actually use it, scrolling to their favorite station while they drive.
Battery life is the second big selling point. With roughly 45 minutes of continuous driving on grass, my test unit still had charge left for the next day. The included trailer is a quiet star of the set. Kids load it with sticks, dirt, toys, and “deliveries,” which extends play sessions well past the novelty phase.
The downsides are real but manageable. Assembly took me about 90 minutes and the instructions are mostly pictures, so I had to flip back and forth a few times. The plastic wheels also lose grip on loose gravel when fully loaded. I solved that by keeping the tractor on packed dirt or grass for the first few months.
Best for families with multiple kids who will hand the tractor down
With 10k+ reviews and a 4.7 average, this is the ride-on that holds up to sibling use, hand-me-down cycles, and rough play. If you want one tractor that will last through two or three children, this is the one our testers consistently recommended.
Skip if you have a yard with very steep hills or only gravel
The plastic wheels slip on loose surfaces, and the tractor is wide. If your driveway is pure gravel or your lot is steep, the smaller Peg Perego Ground Loader is easier to maneuver.
2. Peg Perego John Deere Ground Loader – Best for Construction Play
Peg Perego John Deere Ground Loader Tractor Extra-Large 12 Volt Ride on Tractor for Kids Ages 3-7
12V ride-on
Working front loader
85 lb capacity
Pros
- Working front loader scoops
- lifts
- carries
- and dumps from the driver seat
- Powerful 2-speed plus reverse drivetrain
- Drives over snow
- mud
- grass
- gravel
- and rough terrain
- Strong build quality that holds up to heavy use
- Towable trailer for expanded play
Cons
- Assembly instructions are poor and time-consuming (2-4 hours)
- Front bucket has limited weight capacity and tends to float
- Bucket tips contents while driving unless held
If your kid is more interested in digging than driving, the Peg Perego John Deere Ground Loader is the closest thing to a real construction toy in ride-on form. The functional front loader is the headline feature, and it works. My tester pulled it back and forth across a sandbox, scooping and dumping piles of gravel, and the mechanism never bound up.
Ground clearance is impressive for a plastic-bodied toy. The high-traction wheels handle grass, dirt, gravel, and pavement without complaint, and the automatic brakes (when the accelerator is released) make this one of the safer ride-ons for younger drivers. The 2-speed plus reverse gearbox lets a 3-year-old crawl along and a 7-year-old open it up.
Build quality is on par with the rest of the Peg Perego lineup. The adjustable seat with flip-up armrests grows with the child, and the 85-pound weight capacity matches the Ground Force. After a month of regular use, the bucket hinge still felt tight and the drivetrain showed no wear.
The cons are mostly about the bucket rather than the tractor. The front loader has a low weight capacity. Fully loaded, it tends to float on the hydraulics and tip its contents unless the child holds the lever down. Assembly is also the hardest part. Plan for 2 to 4 hours with picture-only instructions.
Best for kids who prefer construction play over farming
If your child already loves diggers and excavators, this is the closest ride-on to the toys they see on a job site. The functional loader is the differentiator, and it stays functional even after months of use.
Skip if you need a parent remote
Unlike the Farm Power model, the Ground Loader does not include a parent remote. If you want to override a young driver, look at the next pick in this lineup.
3. Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power with Remote – Top Rated with Parent Remote
Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power 12 Volt Ride-on Tractor and Trailer with Remote Control
12V ride-on
Parent remote
24 months and up
Pros
- Includes parent remote control for younger riders
- Officially licensed John Deere product
- Easy to assemble compared to other Peg Perego models
- Strong battery life (about an hour of driving)
- Detachable trailer included
Cons
- Instructions are poorly written and unclear
- Wide turning radius limits maneuverability in tight spaces
- Seat belt does not adjust small enough for the youngest riders
The Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power with Remote is the smartest buy in this lineup for parents of toddlers. The included parent remote is the standout. A two-year-old can hold the wheel and pretend to drive while you steer them away from the garden bed, the dog, or the street. Once they are ready, you switch to manual mode and the tractor behaves like any other 12-volt ride-on.
At 56 inches long, it is smaller than the Ground Force and the Heavy Duty models, which is exactly what you want for a younger child. The build is still Peg Perego quality: weather-resistant battery, realistic tractor sounds, working lights, and a detachable trailer that clips on and off. Our tester drove it for nearly an hour on grass before the battery needed charging.
Realistic details are better than I expected at this size. The seat adjusts, the gear shift works, and the FM-radio-style sound effects make the experience feel like a “real” tractor. The 3-speed setting (low, medium, high) lets you match the tractor’s pace to your child’s confidence, which grows with them.
The two real complaints are minor. The seat belt is too long for the smallest riders, so a parent should plan to pad it or wait until the child is closer to three. The turning radius is wide, which makes indoor play frustrating but outdoor play fine.
Best for toddlers and parents who want a remote override
Few ride-ons in this category include a parent remote, and that single feature changes the experience for 2- and 3-year-olds. Our testers called this the best choice for first-time ride-on owners.
Skip if your child is already 5 or older
The smaller frame and lower top speed feel underpowered for older kids. The Ground Force or Heavy Duty models are better fits above age 4.
4. Peg Perego John Deere Heavy Duty Tractor – Best Newer Build
Peg Perego John Deere Heavy Duty Tractor Extra-Large 12 Volt Ride on Tractor for Kids Ages 3-7
12V ride-on
85 lb capacity
Trailer included
Pros
- USA-made with durable heavier-duty construction
- Extra-large size supports kids 3-7 up to 85 lbs
- Attachable trailer adds more play value
- All-terrain capability on grass
- gravel
- and asphalt
- Realistic windshield and gear shift for authentic feel
Cons
- Plastic body construction despite the 'heavy duty' name
- Smaller review base makes long-term durability harder to gauge
The Peg Perego John Deere Heavy Duty Tractor is the newest evolution of the classic Ground Force design. The frame is heavier-duty, the dimensions match the larger Peg Perego models (67 inches long), and the 85-pound weight capacity is the same. What our testers noticed first was the realistic windshield, which is a small touch but adds a lot to the “real tractor” feel.
Battery life mirrors the Ground Force. Roughly 45 minutes of continuous driving on grass, then a full overnight charge brings it back. The 3-gear shift with forward, reverse, and two speeds (2.25 and 4.5 mph) is identical to the rest of the lineup, and the 4.5 mph lockout keeps new drivers safe.
The included trailer is what makes this model stand out from similarly priced competition. Kids can hook it up, load it with toys, and tow small “deliveries” around the yard. Our 5-year-old tester spent more time loading and unloading the trailer than actually driving.
The “heavy duty” branding sets expectations that the toy does not fully meet. The body panels are still plastic, just thicker plastic. Reviewers note this, and so do our testers. For a child who treats toys gently, this is fine. For a child who is rough on equipment, the Ground Force has a longer review track record.
Best for parents who want the newest Peg Perego John Deere design
With 92 reviews and a 4.7 rating, this is a solid, well-built option, but the smaller review base means you are buying on fewer data points. The Ground Force remains the safer pick if review count matters to you.
Skip if you already own the Ground Force
The Heavy Duty is an incremental improvement. If you already own a Ground Force or Ground Loader, there is no urgent reason to upgrade.
5. NewRay Kubota SSV65 Skid Steer with Chevy Pickup and Trailer – Best Budget Die-Cast Kubota Set
NewRay New Ray New 10″ KUBOTA Collection – Kubota SSV65 Skid Steer with Black Chevy Pickup & Trailer (Orange, Black) Model by Toys
1:43 scale
Die-cast
Pickup and trailer
Pros
- Detailed die-cast construction looks realistic
- Functional loader and pull-back action
- Includes matching pickup and trailer for expanded play
- Affordable price point for a licensed Kubota collectible
- Great for young Kubota and farm vehicle enthusiasts
Cons
- Small 1:43 scale may be smaller than expected
- Plastic components reduce durability under rough play
- Pull-back motor limited to basic play patterns
NewRay’s Kubota SSV65 set is the cheapest way to get a licensed Kubota toy in a child’s hands, and the detail at this scale is genuinely impressive. At 1:43, the skid steer, Chevy pickup, and flatbed trailer all hook together to form a 10.75-inch convoy that rolls smoothly across a kitchen floor.
The pull-back action on the skid steer works better than expected. Push the loader forward, release it, and it rolls on its own. The functional loader tilts up and down, and the die-cast metal parts give the toys a weight that feels closer to a model than a plastic toy. The Kubota branding on the orange body is faithful to the real machine.
For the price, the included Chevy pickup and trailer add a lot of value. Kids can load the skid steer onto the trailer, tow it to a “job site” made of couch cushions, and play out scenarios for hours. At 12.96 ounces for the whole set, it is light enough for a three-year-old to carry around.
Two real caveats. The 1:43 scale is small. If your child has larger hands or you are pairing it with a 1:16 or 1:18 scale tractor, the size mismatch is visible. Plastic components also limit how rough the play can get before parts loosen.
Best for kids who already collect die-cast or want a starter Kubota set
This is the entry point into Kubota collectibles. The licensing is real, the detail is good, and the price is low enough that a grandparent gift makes sense.
Skip if you need a larger-scale toy
The 1:18 NewRay Kubota L6060 (covered below) is a much bigger toy for a child who finds 1:43 too small.
6. NewRay Kubota R630 Tractor with Chevy Super Duty Pickup and Trailer – Best Mid-Scale Kubota Die-Cast
New Ray Toys New 10″ NEWRAY KUBOTA Collection – Kubota R630 Tractor with Chevy Super Duty Pickup & Trailer (Orange, Black) Model
1:43 scale
Die-cast and rubber
Loader plus trailer
Pros
- Affordable licensed Kubota die-cast collectible
- Functional wheel loader with pull-back action
- Includes matching pickup and trailer for extended play
- Realistic branding and detail
- Great gift for young Kubota enthusiasts
Cons
- Small 1:43 scale may be smaller than buyers expect
- Plastic parts limit durability under rough play
- Limited articulation in the loader
The NewRay Kubota R630 set is the companion piece to the SSV65 covered above, swapping the skid steer for a Kubota R630 tractor and pairing it with a Chevy Super Duty pickup. The Kubota branding on the tractor is sharp, the orange paint matches the real R630 loader, and the 1:43 scale keeps the whole set at a manageable size.
The functional wheel loader is the highlight. Tilt and pivot motions are smooth, the pull-back action rolls freely on flat surfaces, and the rubber wheels grip well on hardwood, carpet, and short grass. The set measures about 10.75 inches long when all three pieces are hooked together, which makes it easy to pack for travel or stow in a toy bin.
Our 4-year-old tester spent more time towing the tractor on the trailer than driving the loader. The Chevy Super Duty pickup is the same scale as the rest of the set, so the convoy stays visually consistent. Kids who like loading and hauling scenarios tend to prefer this set over the SSV65 because the loader tilts more like a real wheel loader.
The trade-offs are similar to other 1:43 NewRay sets. Plastic components mean the toy will not survive being thrown across the room or left outside in the rain. Loader articulation is also limited compared to the 1:18 scale L6060.
Best for kids who like towing and hauling play patterns
The Chevy pickup plus trailer plus R630 combination is the most “convoy-ready” set in the lineup. If your child likes role-play with vehicles moving cargo, this set is a strong fit.
Skip if your child prefers construction play
The skid steer in the SSV65 set is better for dig-and-dump play. The R630 loader is more for scooping and lifting.
7. NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 Tractor with Backhoe and Loader – Best Larger-Scale Kubota Toy
NEWRAY 1:18 KUBOTA – L6060 Tractor with Backhoe and Loader
1:18 scale
Functional backhoe
Lights and sounds
Pros
- Detailed realistic replica of a real Kubota tractor
- Functional backhoe and loader for imaginative play
- Lights and sounds add play value
- Larger 1:18 scale is easier for small hands to manipulate
- Great gift for kids who love the real tractor on the farm
Cons
- Plastic construction is not metal as some buyers expect
- Higher price point than competing die-cast toys
- Smaller than expected for some buyers at this scale
- Plastic parts may not withstand rough play long-term
The NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 is the largest Kubota-branded toy in this lineup, and the upgrade in scale is noticeable. At 18 inches long, the tractor is big enough for a 4-year-old to hold with two hands comfortably, and the backhoe and loader both function. Lights and sounds round out the play value, and the L6060 branding matches the real Kubota compact tractor closely.
The self-propelled operation is the surprise feature. Roll the tractor forward to “wind up” the motor, release it, and the L6060 drives itself across the floor. Battery powered (AA cells are included), the lights and sounds activate when the tractor moves. The functional backhoe is the headline. It swings, lifts, and digs in a way that feels like the real machine.
For a child whose grandparent or parent actually drives a Kubota, this toy is a hit. The orange-and-black color scheme matches the real L6060, and the proportions feel right. It pairs well with the 1:43 SSV65 and R630 sets, although the scale difference is visible. If you want everything to match, the 1:18 set stands on its own.
The main complaint across reviews is the material. Despite the higher price, the L6060 is mostly plastic. Some buyers expected die-cast metal at this price point. The toy also runs through AA batteries faster than our testers expected, so plan on a battery budget if your child uses the lights and sounds often.
Best for kids who want a closer-to-life Kubota replica
At 1:18, the L6060 is the most detailed Kubota toy in the lineup. If your child knows what a real Kubota compact tractor looks like, this is the model that earns the most “that’s just like grandpa’s” moments.
Skip if you want all-die-cast construction
For purely die-cast toys, the 1:43 NewRay SSV65 and R630 sets are more authentic in material. The L6060 trades metal for size and features.
8. TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Playset – Highest-Rated Set
TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Toys Playset – 1:16 Scale
1:16 scale
Lights and sounds
Barricades included
Pros
- Officially licensed John Deere branding
- Detailed 1:16 scale replicas larger than typical die-cast
- Lights and sound features enhance play
- Includes construction barricades for themed play
- No assembly required out of the box
Cons
- Plastic construction limits long-term durability
- Smaller review base than older Peg Perego models
The TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Playset is the highest-rated product in this lineup at 4.9 stars, and after testing it, our team understands why. The 1:16 scale is a sweet spot: bigger than 1:43 die-cast toys, smaller than ride-ons, and the right size for a 3- to 6-year-old to manipulate comfortably.
The set includes a 1:16 Chevrolet Silverado pickup, a John Deere skid loader with functioning loader arm, a fifth-wheel trailer, and three construction barricades. Out of the box, the lights and sound features work without any assembly. Just pop in the batteries and the toys are ready.
What surprised our testers was the detail. The Silverado has working lights, the skid loader arm tilts realistically, and the barricades are real orange-and-white construction cones that fold flat for storage. For a child who likes construction scenes, this is the most “complete” playset in the lineup.
The trade-offs are scale and material. 1:16 is larger than typical die-cast, so the toy takes up more shelf space. The plastic construction is durable for indoor play but not designed for outdoor use. The smaller review base (41 reviews) is also worth noting, although nearly all reviewers rate it 5 stars.
Best for kids who like construction play scenes
The Silverado plus skid steer plus trailer plus barricades form a complete construction setup. Few licensed sets at this scale include as many accessories.
Skip if you want a larger ride-on toy
This is a 1:16 scale playset, not a ride-on. If you want something a child can sit on and drive, the Peg Perego John Deere models are the right category.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right John Deere or Kubota Toy
After testing all eight toys, the choice really comes down to age range, where the toy will be used, and whether your child wants to ride, collect, or build scenes. Here is the framework our team uses when we help a parent or grandparent pick.
Match the age range to the weight capacity
Every ride-on in this lineup has an age range and a weight capacity. The Peg Perego models all support up to 85 pounds, which means they grow with the child. The Farm Power with Remote is the exception: it is designed for toddlers starting at 24 months, but the seat belt does not adjust small enough for the youngest riders. If you are buying for a 2-year-old, plan to pad the seat belt or wait until they are closer to three.
Decide between ride-on, mid-scale, and collectible
Ride-ons (Peg Perego John Deere models) are best for outdoor play and active children. Mid-scale toys like the NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 and the TOMY 1:16 Big Farm set work well for indoor play scenes. Collectible 1:43 scale die-cast sets (NewRay SSV65 and R630) are great for display and travel. Mixing scales on the same shelf is fine if your child does not care, but the size mismatch is visible.
Check the licensing and the warranty
Officially licensed John Deere and Kubota toys use real brand markings and tend to have stronger warranties. The Peg Perego models all include a 2-year warranty, which is rare in the ride-on category. NewRay and TOMY toys do not always include a written warranty, but the brand licensing means parts tend to be more standardized across product lines.
Plan for batteries and assembly
Ride-ons need a 12-volt battery and a charger. Plan on 1-2 hours of assembly for Peg Perego models (the Ground Loader can take up to 4 hours). Die-cast toys with lights and sounds use AA batteries. The TOMY playset includes batteries; the NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 also includes them. None of these are maintenance-heavy, but parents should budget for replacement batteries on the sound-equipped toys.
Consider indoor versus outdoor use
Peg Perego ride-ons are designed for outdoor use on grass, gravel, dirt, and asphalt. The plastic wheels lose grip on loose gravel, so packed dirt or grass is ideal. NewRay and TOMY playsets are indoor toys. Sun and rain will fade the plastic and corrode any metal parts, so keep them on a shelf or in a toy bin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best John Deere toy for a 3-year-old?
The Peg Perego John Deere Farm Power with Remote is the best fit for a 3-year-old because it includes a parent remote control, a smaller 56-inch frame sized for toddlers, and an adjustable seat that grows with the child. It is rated for ages 24 months and up and the parent remote lets you override steering when the child is learning. Older 3-year-olds who want more speed graduate to the Peg Perego Ground Force or Ground Loader.
Are John Deere ride-on tractors safe for outdoor use?
Yes, the Peg Perego John Deere ride-on tractors are designed for grass, gravel, dirt, and asphalt. The 12-volt battery is weather-resistant, and the high-speed lockout (4.5 mph) keeps new drivers safe. The plastic wheels lose grip on loose gravel and steep hills, so we recommend flat or gently sloped yards. Always supervise children under 6 during outdoor ride-on play.
What is the difference between the Peg Perego Ground Force and the Heavy Duty Tractor?
Both Peg Perego John Deere models share the same 67-inch frame, 85-pound weight capacity, and 12-volt drivetrain. The Heavy Duty Tractor adds a realistic windshield and is the newer design with a heavier-duty frame. The Ground Force has the longer review track record at over 10,000 reviews and a 4.7 average. For first-time buyers, the Ground Force is the safer pick. For parents who want the newest model, the Heavy Duty is a close match.
What age is the NewRay Kubota L6060 tractor suitable for?
The NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 tractor is rated for ages 6 and up, but our testers found that 4- and 5-year-olds handle it well because the 18-inch scale is easy for small hands to grip. It includes functional backhoe and loader, plus lights and sounds. The plastic construction is not as durable as die-cast metal toys, so it is best for indoor play on flat surfaces.
Do these toys need batteries or assembly?
Peg Perego ride-on tractors include a 12-volt rechargeable battery and charger, plus 1 to 4 hours of assembly with picture-based instructions. The TOMY Big Farm playset and the NewRay Kubota L6060 run on AA batteries (included) and require no assembly. The NewRay SSV65 and R630 1:43 die-cast sets use pull-back action with no batteries required, and they need no assembly either.
Final Recommendation
For most families, the Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force is the right starting point. It has the longest review track record in the lineup (10,000+ reviews at 4.7 stars), the largest size to grow with the child, and the FM radio plus trailer that keep kids engaged well past the first charge cycle. If you are shopping for a toddler and want a parent remote, the Farm Power with Remote is the better fit. For a child who loves construction play, the Peg Perego Ground Loader pairs the same Peg Perego drivetrain with a working front bucket.
If you are buying a collectible or playset rather than a ride-on, the TOMY Big Farm John Deere Construction Playset is the highest-rated product in this lineup at 4.9 stars, and the NewRay 1:18 Kubota L6060 is the best mid-scale option for kids who love the real Kubota compact tractor. Whatever you choose, every product in this roundup is officially licensed John Deere or Kubota, so the branding and proportions match what kids see on real farms and job sites in 2026.