Reversible Plough vs Non-Reversible Plough: What Should You Choose?

• July 08, 2025

For generations, the plough has been the trusted companion of Indian farmers. But now, with modern equipment, advanced options, and increasing cost-awareness, even a simple question like “Which plough should I buy?” isn’t so simple anymore.

That’s where the confusion begins—Reversible Plough or Non-Reversible Plough?

If you’ve found yourself stuck at this decision (or had heated arguments at the tea shop over it), this blog is for you.

Let’s simplify the decision, the Patel Agro way—practical, precise, and powered by real farming experience.

First, What Is a Plough?

Before diving into types, let’s clear the basics. A plough is an implement used to till the land, break up soil, turn over crop residue, and prepare the field for sowing.

In modern tractors, there are two popular types:

• Reversible Plough
• Non-Reversible (or Conventional) Plough

The Real Problem Farmers Face While Choosing A Plough

When choosing farm implements, most farmers focus only on price. But over time, a cheaper implement may consume more fuel, take more time, and reduce soil productivity.

We’ve seen cases where:

• Farmers with uneven land struggle with deep tillage using non-reversible ploughs.
• Fields with heavy residue don’t get fully covered unless the plough direction is changed.
• Drivers waste time circling the tractor after every run.

And that’s exactly why understanding the difference matters.

What Is a Reversible Plough?

A Reversible Plough has two sets of mouldboards (blades) arranged to turn soil in opposite directions. After every run, the plough automatically or manually flips, allowing the operator to till in the same direction without turning the tractor.

Patel Agro’s Reversible Ploughs are designed for Indian soil types, come in hydraulic and mechanical variants, and are compatible with most 35–60 HP tractors.

What Is a Non-Reversible Plough?

A Non-Reversible Plough has a single set of blades that turn soil in only one direction. After each furrow, the tractor needs to circle back or reverse direction to start the next run.

These are basic, cost-effective, and easy to maintain, and are widely used by small and marginal farmers.

Key Differences: Reversible vs Non-Reversible Plough

Feature	Reversible Plough	Non-Reversible Plough
Tillage Direction	Both Left & Right (flips after each pass)	One direction only
Field Efficiency	Higher – less turning	Lower – more turning
Fuel Consumption	Optimised over time	Often higher due to extra manoeuvring
Time Required	Faster completion	Slower due to directional change
Ideal For	Medium to large farms	Small, simple plots
Operator Comfort	High – less strain	Moderate – more turns, more fatigue
Residue Coverage	Excellent – double-sided cut	Moderate – single side only
Initial Cost	Higher investment	Lower cost
Maintenance	Slightly higher	Lower
Soil Depth & Consistency	Uniform, deep tillage	Varies, especially on slopes

When Should You Choose a Reversible Plough?

Here’s where a Reversible Plough from Patel Agro shines:

Choose if:

• You own a medium to large farmland.
• Time, labour cost, and diesel savings are important.
• Your soil needs uniform turning and deeper tillage.
• You deal with heavy crop residues after harvest.
• You want to avoid tractor turns at every edge.
• Your farm has hilly or uneven terrain.

Patel Agro’s Hydraulic Reversible MB Plough is engineered for strength, balance, and long-lasting performance. The hydraulic model lets you reverse the plough with just a lever, reducing manual effort.

When Is a Non-Reversible Plough Better?

Not every field or farmer needs a high-tech solution.

Choose if:

• You have a small landholding or rectangular plot.
• You’re working with a limited budget.
• You prefer manual simplicity over automation.
• You already have experience managing direction manually.
• Your crop doesn’t require deep tillage.

Patel Agro’s Heavy-Duty MB Ploughs in the non-reversible category are built to last and are available in 1, 2, and 3-bottom options for different tractor HP ranges.

Cost vs Value: Think Long-Term

Yes, reversible ploughs cost more upfront. But consider the lifetime value:

• Fuel saving in every acre tilled.
• Time saved = more fields covered.
• Better soil health with consistent tillage.
• Reduced operator fatigue.

If you do the math, a reversible plough pays for itself in 2–3 seasons, especially on larger farms.

Why Choose Patel Agro Ploughs?

At Patel Agro, we don’t just build farm machinery. We build for the Indian farmer’s reality—diverse soils, budget constraints, and real-world productivity.

Patel Agro Ploughs Offer:

• ISI Certified Materials
• Custom Designs for Indian Tractors
• Field-Tested for Tough Conditions
• After-Sales Support & Spare Parts Availability
• Both Hydraulic and Mechanical Reversible Options

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up your operations, we’ve got the plough that fits your land, your crop, and your budget.

The Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

Honestly, both ploughs are great when used right. It’s not a matter of which is better. It’s about which is better for you.

Use this cheat sheet:

Situation	Go For
Small fields, tight budget	Non-Reversible Plough
Medium-large farm, long hours	Reversible Plough (Hydraulic)
Need speed and efficiency	Reversible
Simple maintenance needed	Non-Reversible
Heavy soil or crop residue	Reversible
Steep land or slopes	Reversible

Ready to Choose Your Plough?

At Patel Agro, we’re here to guide, not just sell. Whether you need a rugged reversible plough or a dependable non-reversible model, we’ll help you make the right investment. Explore our latest plough range on our website.