Embraer Phenom 300 vs Cessna Citation XLS
The Cessna Citation XLS (mid-size, ~441 kt, stand-up cabin) and Phenom 300 (light, ~453 kt) are different-class jets — the XLS has the larger mid-size cabin; the Phenom 300 has higher cruise, longer range and light-jet economics.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Embraer Phenom 300 | Cessna Citation XLS |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $7,495,000 – $14,750,000 | $1,795,000 – $15,295,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 430 kts (796 km/h) | 433 kts (802 km/h) |
| Range | 2,010 nm (3,723 km) | 1,796 nm (3,326 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 527.0 gal (1995 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 155.0 GPH (587 L/h) | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,200 | $2,400 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateEmbraer Phenom 300
Fuel$852/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$790,000/yr
Cessna Citation XLS
Fuel$1,018/hr
Variable$2,400/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$830,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Embraer Phenom 300 or Cessna Citation XLS?
Bottom line: Choose the XLS for true mid-size cabin and the segment-defining mid-size jet (best- seller for two decades). Choose the Phenom 300 for class-leading light-jet performance and longer range — when the smaller cabin works for your mission.
Pick the Phenom 300 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $2400/hr.
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- Longer range — 2010 nm vs 1796 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2009 vs 2003.
- More inventory — 76 listings vs 26.
Pick the Citation XLS if…
- Budget matters — from $1,795,000 vs $7,495,000, you save ~$5,700,000.
- Faster cruise — 433 kts vs 430 kts.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Embraer Phenom 300 or Cessna Citation XLS?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Phenom 300 cruises at 430 kts with 2,010 nm range.
The Citation XLS cruises at 433 kts with 1,796 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 Embraer Phenom 300 and Cessna Citation XLS?
Seats: 10 vs 9.
Cruise: 430 vs 433 kts.
Range: 2010 vs 1796 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Phenom 300: about $2200/hr variable cost.
Citation XLS: about $2400/hr variable cost.
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?
Phenom 300: 10 seats / 4,800 lb useful load.
Citation XLS: 9 seats.
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?
Phenom 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Citation XLS: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
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