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You are here: Home / Blog / Industry Hotspots / A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Combine Harvester

A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Combine Harvester

Publish Time: 2025-09-03     Origin: Site

When you look at the different types of combine harvesters, you see a few main groups. These are self-propelled, tractor-pulled, rotary, hybrid, grain, rice, forage, and specialized crop combines. Each type is best for certain farm sizes and crops. Picking the right combine harvester can help you work faster and save money. New research shows that the right combine can lower labor costs and stop grain loss.

Type of Combine Harvester

Units Sold (2024)

Key Markets

Below 200 HP

52,000

Southeast Asia, Bangladesh, East Africa

200–300 HP

117,000

U.S., Brazil, Ukraine, Australia

300–400 HP

42,000

Western Europe, North America

Above 400 HP

7,500

Kazakhstan, Canada, U.S. Midwest


Tip: Think about your field size, crop type, and budget when you learn about each combine.

Key Takeaways

  • Pick the right combine harvester for your farm size and crop. This helps you work faster and spend less money.

  • Self-propelled combines work best in big fields. Tractor-pulled models save money for small farms.

  • Look at the engine power and storage size of the combine. Make sure it fits your harvest needs and helps you work without stopping.

  • Take care of your combine often to make it last longer. Check and fix it a lot so you do not pay for big repairs.

  • Think about what you will need later. Choose a combine that can work with many crops and grow with your farm.


Types of Combine Harvester


Self-Propelled

The self-propelled combine harvester is very popular on farms today. It has its own engine, so you do not need a tractor. This machine works well on hard ground and in big fields. You can pick from conventional or rotary models. These combines are fast and dependable. Many farmers like them because they save time and need less work. FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery sells many self-propelled combines for different crops and fields.

Tip: Self-propelled combines are great if you want a machine that works alone and covers more land quickly.


Tractor-Pulled

Tractor-mounted combine harvesters, also called tractor-pulled combines, hook up to your tractor. You might pick this type if your farm is small or you want to save money. Tractor-mounted combines cost less than self-propelled ones. They are best for farmers who already have a good tractor. But these combines may not be as fast as self-propelled machines. FMWORLD also has tractor-mounted combines for people who want more choices and lower costs.


Rotary

Rotary combine harvesters use a spinning drum to separate grain from stalks. Rotary combines move crops through the threshing area quickly and well. These machines have fewer moving parts, so they break down less and are easier to fix. Rotary combines are gentle with crops like barley and peas. If you want a combine that is strong and reliable, rotary models are a good pick.


Hybrid

Hybrid combine harvesters mix the best parts of rotary and conventional models. You get more work done and better grain quality. Hybrids are good if you want speed and gentle crop handling. Many big farms use hybrid combines to work faster at harvest time.


Grain

Grain combine harvesters are made for crops like wheat, corn, soybeans, oats, and barley. These combines can cut wide paths, sometimes over 40 feet, so they are good for big fields. You can change the headers for different grains. FMWORLD’s harvesting series has grain combines that help you work faster and lose less grain.

Category

Description

Grain Combines

Used for harvesting grains like wheat, barley, corn, and oats with adjustable headers.

Rice Combines

Specialized for wet and dry rice fields, designed to handle delicate rice grains.

Forage Combines

Designed for harvesting forage crops like alfalfa and maize for silage, chopping before storage.

Specialized Crop Combines

Built for unique crops such as soybeans, sunflowers, and peanuts for maximum efficiency.

Rice

Rice combine harvesters are made for muddy and wet fields. They have wide tracks and light frames so they do not sink. Drivers need training to keep from getting stuck. FMWORLD has rice combine harvesters that work in both wet and dry fields. These machines protect rice grains and keep the soil from getting packed down.


Forage

Forage combine harvesters are used for crops like alfalfa and maize, which are used for silage. These combines chop and process the crop before it is stored. If you have animals, a forage combine harvester helps you make good feed fast and easily.


Specialized Crop

Specialized crop combine harvesters are made for special crops like sunflowers, canola, and root crops. These machines use special parts to work better and keep crops safe. FMWORLD’s harvesting series has combines for many special crops, so you can find the right one for your farm.


Key Features of Combine Harvesters

Threshing Mechanisms

Threshing is when the combine takes grain off stalks and husks. The kind of threshing mechanism you pick changes how fast you work and how good the grain is. There are a few main types:

Threshing Element Type

Threshing Efficiency

Energy Requirement

Grain Loss

Rasp Bar

Varies

Varies

Varies

Spike Tooth

Varies

Varies

Varies

Peg Tooth

Varies

Varies

Varies

Wire-Loop

Most suitable

Lower

Lower

To keep your grain safe, watch the cylinder speed and how fast you feed crops in. If you go too fast, you might break more grains. Changing the space in the concave and how much you feed helps you get better results.

Tip: Pick a gentle threshing system for soft crops to keep from losing grain.


Mobility

Mobility means how well the combine moves in your field. You can use wheels or tracks. Each one has good points:

  • Wheels grip the ground well and are easy to fix. They work best on hard ground and drive well on roads.

  • Tracks help the combine move in mud or wet fields. They spread out the weight, so the soil does not get packed down.

If your fields are wet or soft, tracks can keep you from getting stuck. For dry fields, wheels are a smart and cheap choice.


Engine Power

Engine power tells you how much the combine can do each day. More horsepower lets you harvest more land faster. Big farms need strong engines to finish wide fields quickly. Small farms might pick less horsepower to save gas and money.

  • A big combine can use bigger headers and carry more grain each hour.

  • Smaller engines use less fuel and are easier to drive in small spaces.

Think about your field size and how fast you want to finish. The right engine power helps you work faster and use less fuel.


Matching Combine Harvester to Farm Size

Small Farms

If you have a small farm, pick a combine that fits your land and budget. Small combines work best for fields under 80 acres. You can use them for crops like corn, rice, wheat, and oilseed rape. These machines cut, thresh, and clean all at once. Most small combines have 50-100 horsepower. This makes them easy to drive and store. You save money on fuel and repairs. They are easy to move in tight or bumpy fields.

  • Small combine harvesters are good for farms with little storage.

  • You can harvest fast during short seasons.

  • These machines help you spend less on workers if you do not have many.

Tip: Pick a compact combine if you want to switch crops and keep costs low.


Medium Farms

Medium farms need a combine that has enough power and is not too expensive. You want a machine that can work on more acres but still fit in your shed. Look for features that make your job easier and faster. Many medium combines now have GPS and sensors for better accuracy.

Feature

Description

Efficiency

Cuts, threshes, and cleans in one go, saving time.

Compact Design

Easy to move in small or bumpy fields.

Cost-effective Models

Good value for your money.

Advanced Technology

Uses GPS and sensors for better harvesting.

Durability

Built strong, so you do not replace it often.

Ease of Operation

Simple controls help you teach workers fast.

These combines work well for many crops and field sizes. They help you get more done without needing a big team.


Large Farms

Large farms need combines that can cover wide fields fast. These machines do many jobs at once, so you save time and need fewer workers. You can harvest lots of land quickly, which is important when time is short. Big combines help you spend less and get more crops.

  • You spend less on workers and save money.

  • The combine can handle lots of crops, so you lose less.

  • Better feeding systems protect your machine from damage.

Note: If you run a large farm, buy a combine with a strong engine and big grain tank. This helps you finish harvests fast and make more money.


Combine Harvesters for Different Crops


Grain Crops

You need a combine harvester that fits your grain crop and field. Wheat, corn, and barley grow in many places. Farmers use different machines for these crops. Wheeled combine harvesters work well in most grain fields. They move quickly and cover big areas. Tracked combine harvesters are best for wet or soft soil. They grip better and do not get stuck. Mini combine harvesters help in small fields. They are good if the ground is muddy.

Combine Harvester Type

Suitability for Crops

Wheeled Combine Harvesters

Wheat, corn, barley, oats

Tracked Combine Harvesters

Wet, soft soil; rice, paddy

Mini Combine Harvesters

Small fields, wet conditions

Specialized Combine Harvesters

Rice, paddy, unique crops

FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery has machines for all major grain crops. You can pick a self-propelled combine for big fields. Tractor-mounted combines are better for small farms.

Tip: Use a wheeled combine in dry, open fields. Pick tracked models for muddy ground.


Rice

Rice fields need special machines. Wet and muddy fields make harvesting tough. Crawler (track) type combine harvesters work best in wet fields. They keep moving and do not sink. Wheel type combines are good for dry, large rice fields. You finish faster and cover more land. If you want straw for animal feed, use a half-feeding harvester. Full-feeding harvesters cut straw into small pieces. This helps you work quickly. Mini-sized harvesters fit small terraces and mountain areas.

Condition

Suitable Harvester Type

Reason

Wet, small field

Crawler (track) type

Stops you from getting stuck

Dry, large field

Wheel type

Moves faster, cuts wider

Keep straw

Half-feeding harvester

Saves straw for animal feed

No straw needed

Full-feeding harvester

Cuts straw, works faster

Small/narrow area

Mini-sized harvester

Fits tight spots, costs less

FMWORLD’s rice combine harvesters work in both wet and dry fields. You get good results and keep your crops safe.


Forage Crops

Forage crops like alfalfa and silage corn need a combine that chops and handles the crop. You can control how long the pieces are for better feed. Rotary and flail chopper attachments help with different crops. Self-propelled harvesters are great for farms that need lots of feed. You get smaller pieces, which animals eat better.

Feature

Description

Chop and Process Crops

Makes silage quickly

Control Over Cut Length

Changes feed size

Rotary/Flail Chopper

Works for many forage crops

FMWORLD’s harvesting series has forage combine harvesters with rotary attachments. You can change settings for your crop and feed.


Specialty Crops

Specialty crops like sunflowers, peanuts, and canola need special combine features. Specialized combine harvesters use custom headers and settings. These protect soft crops and help you harvest more. FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery makes machines for these crops. You can find options for root crops and oilseeds in their harvesting and tractor series.

Note: Pick a specialized combine if you grow unique crops. You get better harvests and lose less crop.


Choosing a Combine Harvester

Storage Capacity

You need to think about how much grain your combine harvester can hold. A larger grain tank lets you harvest longer before stopping to unload. This saves time, especially on big farms. Smaller tanks work well for small fields or if you have limited storage space. Always match the storage size to your field size and how fast you want to finish the harvest.

Tip: If you want to reduce downtime, choose a combine with a bigger grain tank.


Tires vs. Tracks

You must decide between tires and tracks for your combine. Tires work best on dry, firm ground. They move quickly and are easy to maintain. Tracks help your machine move in wet or muddy fields. They spread the weight, so the soil does not get packed down. Tracks also help prevent the combine from getting stuck. Think about your field conditions before you choose.

  • Tires: Good for dry, flat land. Easy to repair.

  • Tracks: Best for wet, soft, or uneven ground. Protects soil.


Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps your combine harvester running well and saves money over time. Here are some important tasks:

  • Inspect the threshing drum and concave often to avoid expensive repairs.

  • Lubricate moving parts and store the machine properly to stop rust and corrosion.

  • Service the engine with oil changes and new filters to prevent overheating.

  • Prepare your combine for storage after harvest to protect it from weather damage.

FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery offers strong after-sales support and a steady supply of spare parts. This helps you fix problems quickly and keep your machine in top shape.


Cost

The price of a combine harvester depends on its age, size, and features. New machines cost more but offer the latest technology. Used combines can save you money but may need more repairs. Here is a quick look at average prices:

Age Range

Average Price Range

1980 and older

$5,000 - $15,000

1981-1995

$15,000 - $30,000

1996-2005

$30,000 - $60,000

New Combine

$400,000 - $800,000+

Used Combine

$2,000 - $700,000

Note: Always check for after-sales support and spare parts availability before you buy. This makes ownership easier and protects your investment.


Tips for First-Time Buyers

New vs. Used

If you are buying your first combine harvester, you must pick between new or used. Both choices have good and bad points.

  • New combines have the newest technology. They use less fuel and are more comfortable. You also get a full warranty and help from the maker.

  • Used combines cost less money. They are good if you do not want to spend a lot. But you might pay more for repairs and upkeep. Always check how old the machine is and if it works well before you buy.

Tip: If you want a used combine, ask for service records and look at the main parts. This can help you avoid big repair bills.


Dealer Support

Good dealer support makes owning a combine much easier. After-sales service means you get help when you need it. If your combine breaks during harvest, fast repairs keep your farm working.

  • Dealer support and after-sales service are very important for owners.

  • Bad after-sales service can mean long waits for repairs. This can hurt your harvest and cost you money.

  • In Mexico, 25% of machine downtime happens because spare parts are late or there are not enough local repair people, says FEMAM.

  • Not enough trained workers and training programs make repairs harder. This can stop farmers from buying new machines.

FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery gives expert help, quick spare parts, and training. These services help your combine work well.


Future Needs

Think about how your farm could grow or change. You want a combine that works for you now and later. Look at these key things:

Factor

Description

Power Output

Machines with over 300 HP are best for big farms and work faster.

Crop Type Adaptability

New harvesters can work with many crop types, so you can grow different things.

Technology Integration

New technology helps you harvest better and faster.

Economic Considerations

The right combine depends on your farm size and costs, which affects what you buy.

Note: Plan for your farm to get bigger or change crops. A flexible combine can save you time and money later.


Picking the right combine harvester helps your farm do well. There are many types, like self-propelled, tractor-pulled, rotary, hybrid, grain, rice, forage, and specialized crop combines. You should think about your field size, what crops you grow, and how much money you can spend. New features like hydraulic systems, GPS, and IoT help your combine work better and make it easier to use. These features help you get more done and pay fewer workers. If you want more information, talk to an expert or visit a dealer. Plan ahead so your machine still works as your farm gets bigger.

  • Smart combine choices help you grow more crops and earn more money.

  • Things like how much fuel you use and how hard you press on the soil are important for your farm’s future.

  • Try using tools and simulators to compare different combines and pick the best one.

Talk to FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery experts for help. They can help you find a combine that works for you now and later.


FAQ

What is a combine harvester and how does it work?

A combine harvester is a machine that does three jobs at once. It cuts crops, takes out the grain, and cleans it. You drive it across your field. The machine collects the grain and keeps it away from the straw. This saves you time and hard work.


Which type of combine harvester is best for small farms?

For small farms, pick a compact or tractor-mounted combine harvester. These machines are small and fit in tight places. They cost less money than bigger machines. FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery has easy-to-use models. They are simple to take care of and do not break easily.


How do I maintain my combine harvester for long life?

Clean your combine harvester after every use. Check all moving parts and add oil if needed. Change any broken or worn parts right away. FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery gives you spare parts and expert help. This keeps your combine working well for a long time.


Can one combine harvester handle different crops?

Yes, many combine harvesters can work with different crops. You can switch headers for wheat, rice, or corn. You also change settings for each crop. FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery has models that work for many crop types.


Where can I get help choosing the right combine harvester?

You can ask FMWORLD Agricultural Machinery for help. Their team will help you pick the best combine for your farm. They look at your field size, crops, and budget. You can get a price or set up a meeting today.

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