Cessna Caravan vs Daher TBM 850
The Cessna 208 Caravan (single-engine unpressurised utility turboprop, ~186 kt, ~9-14 seats, cargo door) and Daher TBM (single-engine pressurised cross-country turboprop, ~285-330 kt depending on variant, ~4-6 seats) are very different aircraft — utility vs cross-country.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Caravan | Daher TBM 850 |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | $1,395,000 – $4,443,367 | $1,749,900 – $2,499,000 |
| Category | — | Single Engine Turboprop |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 14 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 175 kts (324 km/h) | — |
| Range | 1,070 nm (1,982 km) | — |
| Useful Load | 3,585 lbs (1,626 kg) | — |
| Engines | 1 x | — |
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Caravan or Daher TBM 850?
Bottom line: Choose the Caravan for utility/cargo/short-strip work — the unique combination of 9-14 seat capacity, large cargo door and rough-field capability. Choose the TBM for pressurised ~330 kt cross-country in a single-engine turboprop — completely different mission.
Pick the Caravan if…
- Budget matters — from $1,395,000 vs $1,749,900, you save ~$354,900.
- More inventory — 86 listings vs 20.
Pick the TBM 850 if…
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna Caravan or Daher TBM 850?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Caravan cruises at 175 kts with 1,070 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Caravan and Daher TBM 850?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Caravan: 14 seats / 3,585 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data