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How to choose a mini excavator
The first questions are where you will work, how deep you need to dig and how you will transport it.
In short: up to 1.3 t for gardens, vegetable plots and digs down to 2 m; 1.8 t for digs to about 2.3 m; 2.7 to 3.9 t, zero tail swing with cab, for building sites and continuous work down to 3 m; electric 1.1–1.2 t models for greenhouses, indoor work and residential areas.
1. Weight and working space
Up to 1.3 t the mini excavator passes through gates and narrow access and works in gardens, yards and vegetable plots. From 1.8 to 3.9 t it is more stable, digs deeper and handles heavier attachments, but needs a suitable vehicle for transport.
2. Digging depth
Models from 0.65 to 1.3 t dig from 1.25 to 2 m, enough for utility connections, irrigation, drainage and small foundations. The 1.8 t models reach about 2.3 m, the 2.7–2.8 t models about 2.8 m and the 3.9 t model 3 m.
3. Engine and power
Power ranges from 9 to 25 hp. Kubota and Yanmar diesel engines are built for long working hours; the smallest models also come with Koop or petrol engines. The electric models, with a piston hydraulic pump, have zero emissions and are quiet.
4. Swing boom, dozer blade and extendable undercarriage
The swing boom moves the arm left and right so you can dig along walls and fences without repositioning the machine. The blade levels, backfills trenches and adds stability. The extendable undercarriage narrows to pass through openings and widens for more stable work.
5. Zero tail swing, cab and canopy
On zero tail swing models the upper structure rotates without overhanging the tracks, which helps next to walls and fences. The compact models have a protective canopy; the larger versions a cab, also air-conditioned, for comfortable work in every season.
6. Auxiliary hydraulics and attachments
The auxiliary hydraulic line powers hydraulic breakers, augers and grapples. Some models are available with a quick coupler to change buckets and attachments faster.
| Weight | Engine | Digging depth | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.65 t | Petrol | about 1.25 m | The most compact |
| 0.9–1.1 t | Koop or Kubota diesel | about 1.7 m | Compact |
| 1.0 t | Kubota diesel | about 1.8 m | Zero tail swing |
| 1.1–1.2 t | Electric 4 kW | 1.6–1.7 m | Zero emissions |
| 1.2–1.3 t | Kubota or Yanmar diesel | 1.8–2.0 m | Also with quick coupler |
| 1.8 t | Kubota diesel | about 2.3 m | Zero tail swing |
| 2.7–2.8 t | Kubota diesel | about 2.8 m | Also zero tail swing with cab |
| 3.9 t | Kubota diesel Stage V | about 3.0 m | Zero tail swing, air-conditioned cab |
How deep does a 1-tonne mini excavator dig?
About 1.7–1.8 m depending on the model; the 1.2–1.3 t models reach 1.8–2 m. That is the right depth for utility connections, irrigation, drainage and small foundations.
Do I need a licence to operate a mini excavator?
For private use, generally not. For professional use, many countries require specific operator training or a qualification card: check the rules in your country.
What do I need to transport it?
A trailer or vehicle with a payload suited to the machine weight, loading ramps and anchor points to secure it. Also check the road transport rules in your country.
What is the swing boom for?
It moves the boom left and right relative to the upper structure, so you can dig along walls, fences and edges without repositioning the machine.
Can I fit breakers, augers and grapples?
Yes, if the model has the auxiliary hydraulic line and a compatible connection. Each attachment states the mini excavator weight class it is designed for.
What are the advantages of a cab?
It protects the operator from rain, cold, dust and noise and is recommended for long working hours; on the larger models it is also available with air conditioning.
Products marked with the Italian flag and the Made in Italy indication are designed and manufactured predominantly in Italy; products without these indications are essentially manufactured abroad.