Mini excavators: compare specs and performance

From compact machines perfect for tight urban jobs to models built for heavier lifting, land clearing, and demolition, this guide breaks down operating weights, digging depths, reach, attachment compatibility, and fuel efficiency.

Compare the latest mini excavators from top manufacturers in North America with our comprehensive spec guide and see how each model stacks up across performance, versatility, and technology, including the latest battery-electric options.

1. John Deere Construction & Forestry

The John Deere compact excavator line covers operating weights from 1.7 to 6 metric tons, giving contractors options for tight urban work or broader site support. The 17 P Tier uses a variable-width undercarriage and a foldable blade to move through narrow entry points, while the 60 P Tier offers a spacious climate climate-controlled cab for longer shifts.

Each model includes a mechanical quick coupler and auxiliary hydraulics that make attachment changes fast and give crews more ways to handle trenching, grading, lifting, and material handling.

Shown above, the John Deere 35 P Tier is built for close quarters and tight job sites. It offers a digging depth of 10 feet and a reach of 17 feet 1 inch. Attachment changes stay simple with the mechanical quick coupler. Auto idle and an economy work mode help control fuel use and lower operating costs. The cab supports easy entry and strong visibility, which helps operators stay productive in confined work areas.

View the complete John Deere mini excavator spec guide for detailed model comparisons.

2. Kubota

Kubota mini excavator sizes are engineered for efficient and versatile operation and have focused on offering the latest technology features available for mini excavators. Kubota mini excavators have been updated to improve operator comfort with lowered in-cab noise, dual-actuated seats, and rear-view cameras in select models. The option of zero/tight and conventional tail swings is available.

Pictured above, the KX057-5 is a 5.5-ton mini-excavator designed with the operator in mind. It features dual-actuated seats, lower cab noise, a rear-view camera, LED lights with delay turn off, an LCD screen, and multiple track options. It is powered by a 47.6-hp Tier 4 Final/Stage V engine updated to reduce maintenance.

Read the in-depth Kubota mini excavator specification guide to compare performance across the full range.

3. Wacker Neuson

Eight models of mini excavators ranging from one to six tons are available from Wacker Neuson. The track models, with or without rear projection, are easy to operate and offer spacious cabs, ergonomic controls, and all-around visibility. These rugged and reliable machines offer high breakout force for use in difficult digging conditions and speed up work thanks to their power, maneuverability, and stability.

Wacker Neuson's redesigned EZ26-5 2.5-ton mini excavators, shown above, offer comfort and performance typically found in larger models. The compact package with a minimal tail swing design can easily work in confined areas and includes a load-sensing hydraulic system that regulates flow rate according to demand, resulting in a smooth operating experience.

Explore the full Wacker Neuson compact excavator guide with detailed specs here.

4. Bobcat

Bobcat mini excavators are designed for performance and productivity. These excavators are designed to give operators precise control to work more efficiently, as well as to prioritize their comfort.

Each compact excavator is compatible with an array of specialized attachments and is engineered for high performance. Many of these models can be configured with options, such as the Bobcat Pro Clamp system, Hydraulic X-Change, extendable arm, and depth check system.

The E40 is a minimal tail swing excavator, with less than two inches of overhang and a standard long arm. The E40 has a rated lift capacity of 3,939 pounds, weighs in at 9,180 pounds, and delivers strong over-the-blade and over-the-side lift capacity. It is powered by a turbocharged Tier 4 Final Bobcat engine. Hydraulics are finely tuned to deliver performance and power to the boom, blade, and travel motors.

Check out our spec guide for the Bobcat mini excavator lineup to compare model options.

5. CASE Construction Equipment

The CASE Construction Equipment mini excavator lineup is diverse and comprehensive, capable of delivering optimal digging depth with low operating costs. These mini excavators are built with multiple hydraulic auxiliary circuits for multipurpose capability and compatibility with a variety of attachments.

The line includes conventional and true zero-tail swing models that allow operators to get as close as possible to buildings and obstacles without sacrificing excavator performance.

With zero overhang during the swing, the diesel-powered CX42D allows operators to work with precision in tight spaces. The machine offers a two-way blade as well as an optional six-way blade; three power modes and proportional hydraulic controls; attachment settings including multifunction auxiliary hydraulics with second and optional third auxiliary circuits; and standard five-year CASE SiteWatch telematics.

Explore the CASE CE mini excavator lineup with complete specs, digging depths, and operating weights.

6. Volvo Construction Equipment

Volvo Construction Equipment offers both diesel and electric compact excavators. This includes nine diesel models with five featuring reduced tail swing (RTS) and four conventional. Three electric models include two RTS and one conventional.

Volvo's durable compact excavators include spacious cabs; they are safe and easy to operate and maintain, and they deliver a strong lifting capacity. Volvo compact excavators are compatible with many attachment types, including buckets, hammers, thumbs, breakers, augers, brush cutters, mulchers, forks, and more.

Volvo's newest compact excavator, the 4-ton ECR40, offers comfort, stability, better fuel efficiency, and easier maintenance than its predecessor. Its short swing radius allows for work in confined spaces, and the cab provides good visibility thanks to slim pillars and wide, flat glass. Its adjusted centre of gravity reduces the rocking chair effect.

Check out the complete Volvo CE mini excavator spec guide with side-by-side model comparisons and key performance metrics.

7. Takeuchi

Takeuchi currently manufactures 13 excavators up to 6 tons, spanning from the ultra-compact TB210R that can pass through a standard doorway, to the TB260.

Features on these excavators vary from retractable undercarriages to high-flow auxiliary hydraulics and cab models with multifunction touchscreen colour monitors. They can operate in confined spaces with limited access or in larger areas on tasks requiring greater power, reach, and dig depth. Included in this group of excavators is Takeuchi's first battery-electric model, the TB20e. 

Takeuchi's TB350R short-tail-swing compact excavator features a rear swing overhang of just 2.95 inches, allowing operators to focus on their work and worry less about rear-swing impacts, even in confined spaces. The cab model has three auxiliary circuits, including a dedicated coupler circuit, which makes it easy to switch attachments. 

Read the full Takeuchi compact excavator specification guide for operating weight, reach, and digging depth details.

8. DEVELON

DEVELON mini excavators have intuitive controls, smart machine functionality, efficient fuel systems, and versatile attachments. An enclosed cab with an air conditioning system is standard for operator comfort, while an open canopy is optional.

These machines are hydraulic quick-coupler-ready, have an efficient DEVELON diesel engine, and are equipped with common controls. DEVELON Fleet Management telematics comes standard, making it easy to remotely monitor and maintain machines.

Shown above, the DX42-7 mini excavator features fast cycle times, a larger counterweight, and a standard thumb-ready arm. Other highlights include a framed full-glass door, an optional rear-view camera, and high-illumination LED lamps. It is equipped with standard DEVELON Fleet Management telematics for remote monitoring. An enclosed cab comes standard.

View the complete DEVELON mini excavator spec guide for detailed model comparisons.

9. Caterpillar

All Cat Next Gen mini hydraulic excavators come with stick steer, cruise control, customizable operator settings, sealed and pressurized cabs, and Next Gen LED monitors as standard. The Next Gen models are designed with operator comfort in mind and are easy to service and maintain. When using the stick steer function along with the optional angle blade, operators can backfill and final grade with ease. 

The 5-ton 305 CR, pictured above, has a compact radius design that makes it easy to use in tight quarters or close to buildings. It can be equipped with a canopy or sealed cab, with a variety of comfort features for easier operation through the workday. Available with a standard or long stick, the 305 CR offers a range of options that allow owners to optimize it for their needs.

Review our Caterpillar compact excavator guide to learn more about the full range of models.

10. LiuGong

LiuGong offers five mini excavator models, four of which are in the zero-tail-swing F-series line. LiuGong utilizes a Yanmar engine in platforms under 100 hp, which pairs well with Hengli hydraulics. A North American parts support hub and growing dealer network provide support for these mini excavators.

The LiuGong 9057FZTS (zero tail swing) is new to the 6-ton compact excavator market. The machine has strong lifting and digging capabilities. This model features two auxiliary circuits, thumb and bucket, hydraulic quick coupler lines, a cab with A/C, and the popular angle blade.  

Take a look at our LiuGong mini excavator guide for an overview of all models in the range

11. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas

The hydraulic system on compact excavators from Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas helps achieve fuel-efficient operation while delivering speed and power. The operator can provide simultaneous control inputs with no loss in machine performance.

The ZX30U-5N and larger compact excavators come with power/economy work modes, which provide higher engine speeds when extra horsepower is needed, while the economy mode reduces engine speed when performing normal work. This results in lower noise and decreased fuel consumption.

With an optional angle blade, the ZX35U-5N compact excavator is a good fit for many applications. It has been updated to include an auxiliary flow rate change switch for additional flexibility. The operator can match the flow rate of the auxiliary hydraulic circuit to the requirements of the attachment with either a low or high setting.

Read our Hitachi mini excavator spec guide for a full breakdown of these machines.

12. JCB

JCB designs its mini excavators to maximize comfort for the operator, offering a spacious cab and ergonomic controls. Closed-centre hydraulics enable precision control and efficient performance.

Heavy-duty king posts, 500-hour graphite-impregnated bushings, all-steel bodywork, and full-width cast rear doors or rear counterweights, top-mounted boom rams, and hydraulic hose protection extend life and boost reliability and uptime. Multiple points of access, such as tilting cabs and rear engine doors, make daily inspections and scheduled service easier.

The JCB 19C-1E battery-electric excavator is suited for emissions-restricted areas, noise-sensitive sites, or indoor locations. Lithium-ion batteries deliver the same performance as a diesel equivalent with no compromise in lifting capacity or breakout force. The excavator can be recharged on regular 120V and 240V current or with a 240V fast charger.

Explore our JCB compact excavator spec guide to get a complete view of the lineup.

13. KOBELCO Construction Machinery U.S.A.

Next-generation -7 series mini excavator models are ideal for landscaping, utilities, and small construction projects. They provide increased performance and productivity from the previous models, and KOBELCO is committed to designing smaller machines with the same quality, feel, and comfort as users would find in its larger excavators.

Like all -7 series machines, the SK26SR-7 mini excavator is built for performance and quality. The machine has an operating weight of 6,504 pounds, making it easy to transport, and it can dig up to 9 feet 2 inches deep.

An updated interior includes a suspension seat and wide wrist rests, along with a multifunction colour monitor. A range of options makes the excavator customizable for specific job site needs.

Explore the full KOBELCO mini excavator guide for a complete look at the entire lineup.

14. Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas

Hyundai's HX-A series of compact excavators has a boom swing function that can swing 75 degrees to the left and 50 degrees to the right. Select models offer zero-tail swing for more flexibility in tight spaces. Large dozer blades, quick couplers for attachments, and auxiliary hydraulic piping are standard.

Additional standard features include blade float, cylinder guards, a lifting hook, and a redesigned rear cowl for even easier service access.

Shown above, the HX35AZ compact excavator is powered by a Kubota D1703 diesel engine. The HX35AZ comes standard with a 5-inch colour LCD monitor, an auto-safety-lock function that prevents unintended use of the machine, fuel sight glass, hydraulic quick coupler, hydraulic cylinder guards, and more. The HX35AZ is a zero-tail-swing machine and is available in canopy or cabin versions with the choice of standard or 4-way dozer blade.

View Hyundai's compact excavator lineup for a full overview of models and performance options.

15. Yanmar Compact Equipment

Yanmar's compact excavator lineup includes zero-tail-swing and ultra-tight-turning excavators, which have either no or minimal protrusion beyond the tracks. Yanmar's SmartAssist Remote system comes standard on all excavators for free for the first five years.

The ultra-tight tail swing SV40 excavator, shown above, is powered by a 39-hp, electronically controlled Tier 4 Final diesel engine and comes with Yanmar's patented quick coupler and SmartAssist remote telematics system. Options for the SV40 include a second auxiliary circuit, a 4-way blade, a 6-way blade, and an additional counterweight.

Explore the full Yanmar mini excavator lineup to compare models and features across the range.