Top 5 best mini excavators

Modern excavators, due to their versatility, often replace the work of many special machines. Where large equipment cannot be found, and manual labor is impractical, small mechanization means come to the rescue. These multifunctional units will help you to quickly complete the assigned tasks, not only on a large construction site.

Any mini-excavators, both tracked and wheeled, are distinguished by their exceptional simplicity and ergonomics of control. Very modest volumes and weight allow them to carry out excavation work in any cramped conditions and inaccessible places.

Mini excavator rating

5 GeoGid 15G

This is the most affordable mini excavator. Which, to be precise, is not. This is not a full-fledged technique, but based on a uniaxial "passenger" trailer (category "B"), an earthmoving machine - with a gasoline engine with a capacity of 15 horsepower. This is a Chinese Lifan engine (as on walk-behind tractors).

This trailed excavator does not have a covered cab, but an equipped operator station. For stability during any manipulation, four support elements are provided. There is no swivel mechanism on the GeoGid 15G tool, however, the captured soil can be raised to a height of 2.5 meters. This figure is quite sufficient to release the bucket directly into the body of a nearby truck. There is a rotary handle.

4 HITACHI ZX10U-2

This mechanical assistant weighs a little over a ton and is only 1.46 meters wide. Such dimensions allow performing complex earthworks in places inaccessible to conventional equipment. In addition, the tail section of the mini-excavator cab has zero overhang, and the track width can be adjusted, reducing the track from 1 meter to 90 cm, which allows you to drive through wide doorways for indoor work. Rubber tracks prevent damage to lawns, decorative surfaces, etc.

Of the minuses, it should be noted the lack of a cabin, which can cause inconvenience when working in the open air. The only protection for the operator is a metal bow and seat belts, but this is quite sufficient, given the miniature size of the unit.

3 GeoGid 60D

The special vehicle of this model is the most powerful tracked mini-excavator of the Chelyabinsk brand. Currently, this model is no longer produced. With practically the same dimensions as the "smaller brothers" - 4.2 x 1.4 x 2.4 m), this excavator has a much higher productivity. The bucket volume can be 80 l (0.08 m3) or 140 l (0.14 m3). The digging depth is three meters, and the dumping height is 3.3 meters.

The mass of this compact special vehicle is 3.3 tons. The power of the Kubota diesel engine is 60 horsepower (44.1 kW). The hydraulic pump operates with the highest capacity of 68.6 liters per minute. The width of the tracked undercarriage is 1.25 m - 1.35 m. The length of the tracked undercarriage is 1.5 - 1.83 m. The speed of movement is 6 kilometers per hour.

2 BOBCAT E32

One of the best solutions for working in confined spaces. The standard swivel boom allows you to dig a pit up to three meters deep. The model can also be equipped with an extended (telescopic) handle, but this upgrade implies the installation of a more powerful engine, because the weight of the machine will increase. The caterpillar track is equipped with rubber tracks, which, if necessary, can be replaced with steel ones.

In operation, the model is distinguished by its endurance and ergonomic control. Additional attachments significantly expand the functionality of the installation. There is also a comfortable package in which the frame canopy over the workplace has been replaced by a sealed cabin (with an installed air conditioning and heating system).

1 JCB 18Z-1

The products of this brand are highly reliable and capable of working in difficult conditions. The mini-excavator is distinguished by a large safety margin of component parts and ease of maintenance. The cast counterweight extends across the full width of the machine and not only increases stability, but also provides protective functions.

For the convenience of transporting the mini-excavator, there are special attachment points (10 hooks throughout the body). The hydraulic hoses for the bucket drive are hidden in the boom skin, which not only contributes to their reliable protection, but also improves the appearance of the model. The JCB 2GO system completely locks out the controls and prevents the engine from starting if the lever is not in neutral. The lock prevents the possibility of accidental movement during the activity of the manipulator, which ensures safe work.