Mini excavators are typically divided into several tonnage levels. The suitability of excavators of different tonnages for applications such as earthmoving and working in confined spaces varies significantly with tonnage distribution.
Mini excavators typically range from 800 lbs to 20,000 lbs. The most common sizes include <1 ton, 1–2 tons, 3–5 tons, and 6–10 tons. Each size suits different jobs based on space, digging depth, and lifting capacity.
Let’s dive into detailed mini excavator sizes and brand comparisons.
Mini Excavator Size Chart: A Quick Overview
Here’s a simplified chart to compare common mini excavator sizes:
| Size Class | Operating Weight | Max Dig Depth | Width | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <1 Ton | 800–1,999 lbs | 5–6 ft | ~30–40 in | Landscaping, indoor demolition |
| 1–2 Ton | 2,000–4,000 lbs | 7–8 ft | ~40–48 in | Trenching, fencing |
| 3–5 Ton | 6,000–10,000 lbs | 9–11 ft | ~55–70 in | Construction, utilities |
| 6–10 Ton | 12,000–20,000 lbs | 12–14 ft | ~70–80 in | Roadwork, pipeline digging |
Most Common Mini Excavator Sizes
Mini excavators are not one-size-fits-all. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular size classes, their real-world performance, and sample models to guide your decision-making.
<1 Ton (800–1,999 lbs)
These are ultra-compact machines perfect for indoor or extremely tight outdoor spaces.
They can dig up to 5–6 feet deep, are less than 40 inches wide, and weigh under 2,000 lbs, making them ideal for home landscaping or backyard projects.
However, their digging force and lift capacity are limited. They’re best for light-duty, short-duration tasks on soft ground.
Popular Models:
- Bobcat E10
- Kubota K008-5
- CAT 300.9D
- Yanmar SV08
1–2 Tons (2,000–4,000 lbs)
This is the go-to class for light commercial jobs or more intensive residential work.
Excavators in this range offer better reach and lift capacity, typically with a width of 40–48 inches and max dig depth up to 7–8 feet.
They’re easy to transport on trailers and provide excellent maneuverability. Great for trenching, irrigation, or small foundation digging.
Popular Models:
- CAT 301.7
- Kubota U17
- Doosan DX17
- Volvo EC20E
3–5 Tons (6,000–10,000 lbs)
This is the “sweet spot” for many contractors and rental companies.
With an operating weight between 6,000 to 10,000 lbs, these excavators deliver powerful digging (up to 11 feet) and can handle tougher terrain and heavier attachments.
They strike a balance between capability and size, making them perfect for demolition, utilities, or mid-scale construction.
Popular Models:
- CAT 304
- Kubota U35-4
- Bobcat E35
- Komatsu PC35MR
6–10 Tons (12,000–20,000 lbs)
These machines approach standard excavator power while retaining compact footprints.
Heavy-duty mini excavators in this class can dig over 12 feet deep and lift significant weight while maintaining transportability on larger trailers.
They’re ideal for road construction, pipeline work, and infrastructure jobs that require higher productivity.
Popular Models:
- CAT 308 CR
- Kubota KX080-4
- Bobcat E88
- Komatsu PC88MR
Brand Comparison: Mini Excavator Size Charts
Let’s compare models from leading manufacturers. Each chart includes model, weight, dig depth, engine power, and width.
Bobcat Mini Excavator Sizes
| Model | Operating Weight | Max Dig Depth | Dump Height | Power (hp) | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E10 | 2,593 lbs | 5.6 ft | 6.6 ft | 10.2 | 28 in |
| E20 | 4,306 lbs | 8.5 ft | 9.2 ft | 13.9 | 39 in |
| E35 | 7,699 lbs | 10.2 ft | 11.1 ft | 24.8 | 69 in |
| E42 | 9,246 lbs | 10.4 ft | 11.4 ft | 42.7 | 70 in |
| E60 | 13,556 lbs | 13.1 ft | 14.1 ft | 52.3 | 77.2 in |
| E88 | 19,600 lbs | 15.3 ft | 16.2 ft | 65 | 86 in |
Kubota Mini Excavator Sizes
| Model | Operating Weight | Max Dig Depth | Dump Height | Power (hp) | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K008-5 | 2,200 lbs | 5.7 ft | 6.8 ft | 10.3 | 29 in |
| U17 | 3,703 lbs | 7.7 ft | 8.1 ft | 16.1 | 39 in |
| U25 | 5,500 lbs | 9 ft | 10 ft | 21.2 | 59 in |
| U35-4 | 8,200 lbs | 11.8 ft | 12.7 ft | 24.8 | 69 in |
| KX057 | 12,200 lbs | 13 ft | 14 ft | 45.4 | 77 in |
| KX080-4 | 18,365 lbs | 15.1 ft | 16.3 ft | 66.6 | 88 in |
CAT Mini Excavator Sizes
| Model | Operating Weight | Max Dig Depth | Dump Height | Power (hp) | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.9D | 2,061 lbs | 5.6 ft | 6.5 ft | 13 | 28 in |
| 301.7 | 3,800 lbs | 7.9 ft | 8.5 ft | 21.6 | 39 in |
| 303 CR | 6,600 lbs | 9.8 ft | 10.9 ft | 23.6 | 61 in |
| 304 | 9,300 lbs | 11.3 ft | 12.5 ft | 40.2 | 67 in |
| 306 CR | 15,821 lbs | 13.6 ft | 14.8 ft | 55.9 | 78 in |
| 308 CR | 20,077 lbs | 13.5 ft | 15.3 ft | 69.5 | 86 in |
How Much Can You Dig in a Day with a Mini Excavator?
The output depends on the machine size and jobsite conditions:
- 1–2 Ton: 30–50 cubic yards/day
- 3–5 Ton: 80–100 cubic yards/day
- 6–10 Ton: 120–180 cubic yards/day
These figures vary with soil type, operator skill, and project type. Always consider adding a hydraulic thumb or quick coupler to improve productivity.
Price Range for New or Used Mini Excavators
Pricing varies significantly by brand, condition, and size class.
- New mini excavators typically range from $25,000 to $90,000+
- Used mini excavators range from $12,000 to $60,000, depending on hours and model year
Smaller machines are cheaper to transport and maintain, making them appealing to individual buyers or small construction firms.
How to Choose the Right Mini Excavator Size?
Selecting the right size starts with jobsite conditions and task requirements.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Digging depth needed: Check trench or foundation depth
- Work site space: Will the excavator fit?
- Weight limits for transport: Can your trailer haul it?
- Power & attachments: Do you need a breaker, auger, or tilting bucket?
- Budget: Don’t overspend for unused capacity
If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult suppliers or test rental units before purchase.
At HIXEN, we offer both new mini excavators ranging from HX08 to HX35 and used mini excavators from brands like CAT, Komatsu, and Kubota to fit every jobsite and budget.
Summary
Choosing the right mini excavator isn’t just about size—it’s about matching your machine to your work.
From garden jobs to heavy-duty digging, there’s a mini size for every task.
Need help picking one? HIXEN’s experts are just a message away—contact us today!
FAQ
How deep can a 1-ton mini excavator dig?
A 1-ton excavator typically digs up to 5–6 feet, perfect for light residential tasks like trenches or garden leveling.
How wide is a 2-ton mini excavator?
Most 2-ton models are around 40–43 inches wide, narrow enough to pass through small gates or fences.
What can a 1.7-ton excavator do?
This size is ideal for trenching, landscaping, small demolition jobs, or under-house excavations where access is tight.
What kind of tools can a 2-ton mini excavator use?
A 2-ton excavator can handle breakers, augers, and tilting buckets, making it versatile for digging, drilling, or grading.
