2025 mini excavator buyer’s guide

Australia’s construction machinery market was worth $4.41 billion in 2024 and is set to keep climbing as the building boom continues. The top-selling equipment category across the sector, however, may surprise some.

By a clear margin, it’s the mini excavator.

Excavators are the most popular machinery category on ConstructionSales, and last year, eight of the 10 most viewed models were ‘mini’ variants. Their appeal is obvious: compact dimensions, impressive capability, and a price tag that makes them accessible to a wide range of operators.

From tradies and landscapers to equipment hire firms, utilities and civil contractors, the mini excavators cater to just about anyone as they strike the right balance of versatility, efficiency and affordability.

Most machines in the 1500 to 2500kg class – the focus of this guide – can even be towed behind a standard Aussie ute, saving the need for a dedicated truck.

Alongside their lower purchase cost, these machines often replace multiple tools thanks to their blade, bucket and broad attachment range. They punch well above their weight, which explains their popularity across Australia.

Whether you’re shopping for your first machine or upgrading an old workhorse, here are the top mini excavator models for 2025, in no particular order. Let’s dig in…

Kobelco has a strong reputation for churning out efficient, reliable and easy-to-operate mini excavators, with an impressive range that spans 1035kg units to 5095kg closed cabin workhorses.

Kobelco’s 2125kg SK20SR-6 is a compact, open-cab zero tail-swing machine with serious digging power, swift swing speed and impressive working range.

With a swing radius of just 690mm, it can dig and dump through 180 degrees within a 2.22m working space. A side-ditching swing boom and tight radius make it ideal for jobs in confined spaces such as along house walls.

A Yanmar diesel delivers 17.5kN of digging force, while Eco mode reduces fuel use. Operator comfort is prioritised with wide cabin entry, ROPS and FOPS certification, ergonomic controls and an LCD display for key data.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 2125kg
Engine: Yanmar 3TNV74F, 14.3kW/68.6Nm
Digging force: 17.5kN (bucket)

John Deere made a return to the Australian construction equipment market a few years ago through local dealer RDO Equipment, rolling out a range of skid steers, compact track loaders and mini excavators.

A popular model within the stable is the 1836kg John Deere E18ZS which combines a zero tail-swing design with a variable-width undercarriage (900–1300mm), making it both agile and stable.

It offers auto-shifting two-speed travel up to 4.5km/h and a load-sensing hydraulic system delivering a strong 18.7kN of digging force, promising smooth yet powerful machine control. Rated lift capacity is 410kg at one metre above ground and two metres from the rotation centreline.

Operator visibility and comfort are strong points, with TOPS and FOPS protection and halogen work lights atop the operator’s station and on the boom for work in low-light conditions.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 1836kg
Engine: Yanmar 3TNV76, 13.8kW/65.8Nm
Digging force: 18.7kN (bucket)

Kubota’s U17-3 is a proven favourite, known for its durability and value. Weighing 1675kg, it features zero tail-swing and an adjustable track width from 990–1240mm, making it perfect for tight sites.

A Kubota Tier 4 compliant diesel engine powers the unit, providing plenty of grunt while also boasting low noise and vibration levels.

Despite its size, the U17-3 offers a strong 15.2kN of digging force and a maximum digging depth of 2310mm. An auxiliary hydraulic system supports a range of attachments including breakers and augers.

The cabin features ROPS/OPG protection, a convenient digital panel that displays critical information and switchable ISO/SAE operating patterns.

For operators seeking a more premium option, Kubota has recently introduced the U17-5 Premium mini excavator. The model builds on the proven U17-3 platform, adding extra features and comfort.

The Premium variant provides an additional 30mm of foot space, a semi-suspended seat, USB ports and phone holders, along with improved fuel efficiency from a Euro Stage 5 engine delivering 12kW.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 1675kg
Engine: Kubota D902-E3, 12kW
Digging force: 15.2kN (bucket)

Japanese manufacturer, Yanmar, pioneered the zero tail-swing back in 1993, and its ViO17 shows just how far the design has come. This 1790kg mini packs in plenty of innovation, wrapped up in a truly compact package.

The variable track width retracts to just 950mm to squeeze through tight gaps, before extending to 1280mm for solid stability. With no rear overhang, operators can swing carefree in confined spaces.

Power comes from a Yanmar TNV diesel delivering 10.1kW, paired with a clever three-pump hydraulic system that provides 15.2kN of digging force. Practical touches include a folding, extendable blade that adjusts without tools, and integrated tie-down hooks for safe transport.

The operator environment is equally thoughtful. A walk-through cab improves access, the ROPS/FOPS canopy provides safety, intuitive joystick controls with pattern change options make operation easy and an ergonomic layout reduces fatigue.

The ViO17 also features a bright LED boom light that illuminates dark work areas.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 1790kg (rubber track)
Engine: Yanmar 3TNV70-XBV, 10.1kW
Digging force: 15.2kN (bucket)

Komatsu is best known for its larger diggers but its 1855kg PC18MR-3 shows the same DNA carries through to the mini class.

It’s not a true zero tail-swing, but its tight radius makes it suitable for most confined jobs. An expandable track width (980–1300mm) and auto two-speed travel ensure flexibility and efficiency on site.

Komatsu has fitted the PC18 with features usually reserved for larger models, including its KOMTRAX remote monitoring system, O-ring face seal hydraulic fittings and large diameter swing pin. Maintenance access is straightforward too.

An 11.2kW Komatsu Tier-3 compliant diesel and HydrauMind hydraulics with a flow of 95.9l/min deliver 15.8kN of digging force which is plenty for its size.

Operators get a spacious two-post ROPS canopy, adjustable suspension seat, smooth joystick controls and low levels of noise and vibration. A pattern change valve allows operators to switch between ISO/SAE patterns easily.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 1855kg (canopy)
Engine: Komatsu 3D67E-2A, 11.2kW
Digging force: 15.8kN (bucket)

Caterpillar is another brand with a reputation forged in heavy equipment, and the 1775kg 301.5 carries that pedigree into the compact sector.

Its track width spans 990–1300mm, though it uses a standard swing design rather than true zero swing meaning it is not as suited to confined spaces as the other models mentioned above.

A Cat C1.1 diesel produces 15.7kW, while smart features like auto idle, auto engine shutdown and a variable displacement hydraulic pump keep fuel use under control. Cruise control and two-speed travel allowing travel speeds of up to 4.4km/h add further convenience.

Inside the ROPS and TOPS canopy, Cat has packed in features rare for this class. Operators get an LCD monitor displaying critical data, easy pattern-change control, and its unique Stick Steer system lets you drive the machine via joystick rather than pedals. For operators hopping between different machines, it’s a genuine time-saver.

Quick Specs:

Weight: 1775kg (canopy)
Engine: Cat C1.1, 15.7kW
Digging force: 14.1kN (bucket)

From Japanese innovators to American heavyweights, each brand brings its own strengths so your choice comes down to what matters most: compact dimensions, digging power, operator comfort, or advanced tech.

One thing’s certain: in a market this hot, the mini excavator is no longer just a niche tool. It’s an essential part of the fleet.

Ready to take the plunge? Find your first or next mini excavator on Constructionsales.com.au.