Evaluating the Top Mini Excavators Available in the Market

Keywords: best mid size excavator, mini excavator cover, 1.5 ton mini excavator, mini excavator brands

The construction industry is seeing an increase in the use of mini excavators due to their small size and high degree of adaptability. These devices are used for many different earthmoving tasks, such as trenching, grading, and gardening. You have a wide range of options if you’re in the market for a new mini excavator.

Finding a tiny excavator with the right size and functionality for your project is essential. But it might be challenging to choose the ideal model when there are so many models available that range in weight from less than 1,000 pounds to over 8,000 pounds.

We’ll discuss the top-rated small excavators available and highlight their main benefits to aid with your decision and Introduce the world of mini excavators, ranging from the compact and versatile mini excavator cover to the nimble 1.5-ton and 2.5-ton models, all the way up to the robust and powerful 3.5-ton excavator.

Best Mini Excavators

Best Customizable Option: John Deere 35G

• Best Overall: Yanmar ViO35-6A
• Best Electric Mini Excavator: Volvo ECR25
• Best Mini Household Excavator: Kubota K0008-3
• Best Mini Excavator for Small Projects: Komatsu PCO1-1
• Best Budget Option: Bobcat E26

Best Customizable Option: John Deere 35G

Key Advantage: Multiple attachment and customizable elements

The G-series mini excavators from John Deere come with a host of customization choices so you may have the ideal tool for the job. The G-series ranges in size from the 1,720-pound 17G to the 6,145-pound 60G, and they can hold several attachments.

In terms of simplicity of use and customization, the 35G is a fantastic choice. It automatically slows down when handling heavy loads and may be quickly switched between settings similar to those of an excavator and a backhoe. Larger windows in the cab’s design improve visibility and facilitate navigation and job switching.

Best Overall: Yanmar ViO35-6A

Key Advantage: Tier 4 engine with increased fuel efficiency

One of the most well-liked versions available is Yanmar’s ViO35-6A compact excavator, which boasts a fuel-efficient Tier 4 engine and zero tail swing capabilities. With its ECO and auto-deceleration settings, the ViO35-6A uses 20% less fuel than previous models. This, together with its easy-to-access engine compartment and quick coupler system, makes it a good option for individuals seeking greater efficiency.

This type has 24.4 horsepower and a maximum digging depth of 11.25 feet. Its operational weight of 8,214 pounds allows it to do a wide range of construction, utility, and landscaping activities while being small enough to maneuver through small worksites.

Best Electric Mini Excavator: Volvo ECR25

Key Advantage: Fully electric

Electric construction equipment is quickly gaining traction as an eco-friendly alternative to diesel-fueled machines. To help keep up with growing demand, many equipment manufacturers are developing electric mini excavators to add to their fleets of EVs. The Volvo ECR25 is the first in a new line of mini excavators powered by a 24 horsepower electric motor and a 48 volt battery.

This machine has an operating weight of 6,129 pounds and can run for up to four hours on a single charge. While it is not yet available for purchase, you can prebook it on the Volvo CE website.

Best Mini Household Excavator: Kubota K0008-3

Key Advantage: Adjustable blade and track width allow it to fit through doorways

Kubota is a popular choice for people who want a dependable household excavator that’s easy to transport and store. It has a maximum width of less than 3 feet, and the track frame and blade are adjustable to allow it to fit through doorways easily. Its compact size and 2,200-pound operating weight make it a useful tool for landscaping and indoor tasks that require a smaller machine.

Best Mini Excavator for Small Projects: Komatsu PCO1-1

Key Advantage: Very compact and lightweight

Weighing in at roughly 840 pounds, the Komatsu PCO1-1 currently holds the top spot for the world’s smallest mini excavator. This tiny machine offers 3.5 horsepower and a max digging depth of 3.5 feet, and it’s just 2 feet wide. While it can only handle smaller jobs, it’s perfect for yard work, pipe laying and confined urban construction projects.

If you live in the U.S., the PCO1-1 is not available on Komatsu’s website and you may need to purchase a used model from a third-party retailer. Fortunately, Bobcat, Volvo and Yanmar also offer lightweight models that serve a similar purpose.

Best Budget Option: Bobcat E26

Key Advantage: Includes Cylinder-Inside-Boom workgroup to add protection against bucket collision

The Bobcat E26 can help you get the most for your money even if it’s not the cheapest compact excavator on the market. This mid-range machine, which nevertheless offers many of the same features and attachment possibilities as larger machines, costs about 40% less. With its ability to hold augers, breakers, grapples, and grading blades, among other tools, it is an extremely flexible choice that may help you avoid spending money on unnecessary extras.

Bobcat designed this model’s shape, weight, and controls specifically for the rental market, making it a solid choice for anyone trying to cut costs on their rent. Choosing a secondhand model can also aid in further cost reduction.