Bruder or Siku: the differences
Bruder and Siku are the two best-known names in toy tractors, but they differ in scale and size. Here are the differences and how to choose.
In short
Bruder is bigger (1:16) and has many play features. Siku is smaller, usually at 1:32, with plenty of models for a full farmyard or a collection.
Bruder
Bruder describes its Profi series as a range at scale 1:16. The age label in our data is 3+ or 4+, and for children from 2 years Bruder has the ROADMAX series. The product page of a Bruder tractor also carries the warning that it is not suitable for children under 36 months.
Besides tractors, Bruder also makes trailers, implements, harvesters and its own farmers and animals at the same scale, so you can build up a farm within one brand.
Siku
Siku lists the scales 1:87, 1:50 and 1:32 for agricultural machines on its site. The Fendt 1050 Vario, for example, is a 1:32 model made of metal and plastic parts. Siku says its tractors are for collectors and children.
The Siku product page carries the warning that the model is not suitable for children under 36 months. For many Siku models you will find the age label on the product page and the packaging.
The differences side by side
Scale: Bruder 1:16, Siku usually 1:32 (also 1:50 and 1:87). Length: Bruder tractors in our catalogue are usually between 34 and 45 cm, Siku tractors at 1:32 between 19 and 24 cm.
Space: Bruder needs more room per vehicle. Combining: a Siku trailer does not fit a Bruder tractor and the other way round, because the scales differ.
How to choose
Choose Bruder if the toys will mostly be used on the floor or outdoors and you want big models. Choose Siku if you want to build up a farmyard in little space, want lots of different models or are starting a collection.
You do not have to choose: many families buy Bruder for playing outside and Siku for the bedroom. Just do not put them in the same scene.
Frequently asked questions
Which brand is best for a child of 3 or 4?
In our data Bruder lists 3+ or 4+ for its tractors and trailers. Check the manufacturer's age label for each article and note the warning for children under 36 months.
Is Bruder bigger than Siku?
Yes. Bruder makes its Profi series at 1:16 and Siku Farmer at 1:32. In our catalogue a Bruder tractor is usually 34 to 45 cm long, a Siku tractor at 1:32 is 19 to 24 cm.
Can I combine Bruder and Siku?
On the same shelf, yes, but not as a tractor with a trailer. The scales of 1:16 and 1:32 differ, so couplings and proportions do not match.
Keep browsing
FarmToyDeals does not sell or test anything itself. This guide lists what manufacturers state. Always check the age label on the packaging.
More guides
- Which scale to choose: 1:16, 1:32, 1:50 or 1:87 The box says 1:32 or 1:16, but what does that mean for the toy you are buying? Here is how to work it out and how to pick the scale that suits you. Read the guide
- Farm toys by age: from toddler to collector Which farm toys suit which age? We list the manufacturers' age labels side by side, from toddler to collector. Read the guide
- Starting a collection: Britains, Wiking and more If you want to collect farm models, you face three choices: scale, manufacturer and the real tractor make. Here is how to start without regrets. Read the guide
