Mini Excavator Sizes and Weight
Mini excavators are compact, powerful, and purpose-built for getting work done in tight spaces where larger machines just can’t go. Whether you’re trenching for utilities, digging out a foundation, or handling landscape prep, these machines offer the right mix of versatility and precision.
In this guide, we’ll break down mini excavator weight, sizes, and key specifications so you can choose the best unit for your jobsite, trailer, or rental plan.
Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or renting for the first time, this overview of mini excavator dimensions, performance factors, and towing tips will help you make a confident decision.
What Is a Mini Excavator?
A mini excavator, also known as a compact excavator, is a smaller version of a full-size excavator. Designed for light-to-medium-duty work, mini excavators are prized for their ability to dig, lift, and grade in areas with limited access. You’ll find them on residential construction sites, landscaping jobs, and utility installations where maneuverability matters.
Despite their smaller size, these machines deliver impressive performance. Most models feature a hydraulic boom, arm, and bucket, just like their larger counterparts, along with the ability to rotate 360 degrees for efficient digging and material handling.
Mini excavators are also easier to transport, less likely to damage finished surfaces, and often don’t require special licensing to haul, making them a top choice for contractors, municipalities, and even homeowners tackling their own projects.
Popular brands include Bobcat, Caterpillar, and John Deere, each offering various mini excavator sizes to suit different jobs. From ultra-compact units under 4 feet wide to larger models with extended reach and lift capacity, there's a model out there for almost any task.
Mini Excavator Sizes and Dimensions
When choosing the right machine for your job site, size matters just as much as weight. Mini excavator dimensions, including height, width, and length, determine where the machine can fit, how deep it can dig, and what kind of trailer or access points you’ll need. Whether you’re working between buildings, passing through a backyard gate, or operating near walls and structures, compact dimensions can be a game-changer.
Here are the key specs to consider:
How Wide Is a Mini Excavator?
Mini excavators can be as narrow as 28 inches with the tracks retracted, making them perfect for indoor demolition or tight backyard access. Standard compact models are typically between 3 to 6 feet wide. Some models even have adjustable track widths, allowing you to expand for stability or retract to squeeze through narrow openings.
Mini Excavator Height
Typically ranges from 7 to 9 feet. This affects your ability to work under tree branches, utility lines, or inside structures.
Length and Reach
Longer machines often offer better reach and deeper digging capabilities. Mini excavators usually range from 8 to 16 feet long, depending on boom style and tail swing.
Mini Excavator Sizes Chart
| Size Class | Width | Height | Max Dig Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Micro (1–2 ton) | 28–36 inches | 7–8 ft | Up to 5–6 ft |
| Compact (3–4 ton) | 4–5 ft | 8–9 ft | 8–10 ft |
| Mid-Size (5–6 ton) | 5–6 ft | 8–9.5 ft | 11–13 ft |
| Large Compact (6–9 ton) | 6+ ft | 9–10 ft | 13–15 ft |
Choosing the right mini excavator size directly impacts how much work you can get done and how easily you can do it. A smaller machine may be perfect for tight access, but it could limit your digging depth or lifting power. On the other hand, a larger unit can tackle tougher jobs but may be harder to maneuver or transport.
So, before you rent or buy, ask yourself: What size mini excavator do I need to balance performance, access, and efficiency on my jobsite?
How Much Does a Mini Excavator Weigh?
Mini excavator weight can vary significantly depending on the size, brand, and features of the machine. On the light end, ultra-compact models weigh as little as 2,000 lbs, while larger compact units can reach up to 20,000 lbs. Here’s a mini excavator weight chart of typical weight ranges:
| Mini Excavator Size | Operating Weight | Example Models |
|---|---|---|
| Micro/Ultra-Compact | 2,000–4,000 lbs | Bobcat E10, CAT 300.9D |
| Small Compact | 5,000–7,000 lbs | Deere 17G, CAT 301.8 |
| Mid-Size Compact | 8,000–10,000 lbs | Bobcat E35, CAT 303.5 |
| Large Compact | 11,000–20,000 lbs | Deere 60G, CAT 308 |
These numbers represent the operating weight, which includes the machine, fluids, operator, and standard bucket. And remember, different manufacturers like Caterpillar, Bobcat, and John Deere may list slightly different specs even for machines of similar sizes.
How Size and Weight Affect Performance
Digging Depth and Reach
In general, the larger and heavier the mini excavator, the deeper it can dig and the farther it can reach. A compact 3,000-lb unit might max out at 6 feet deep, while a 10,000-lb machine can reach down 12–14 feet.
Lift Capacity and Stability
The weight of a mini excavator helps determine how much it can lift without tipping. Heavier machines offer better counterbalance, making them more stable when lifting heavy materials or swinging loads to the side.
Ground Pressure and Surface Impact
Lighter mini excavators exert less pressure on the ground, making them ideal for turf, finished landscaping, or delicate surfaces. Heavier models offer more traction and digging power but may cause more surface damage.
Attachment Compatibility
The size and hydraulic capacity of your machine also affect which attachments you can run. Bigger machines typically support more powerful and specialized attachments.
It’s also important to consider any additional attachments or counterweights, as these can increase the overall weight of a mini excavator. A heavier machine offers more stability and lifting power but may require a larger trailer or tow vehicle. Lighter units are easier to haul and maneuver but may have limited digging depth or reach.
Get the Right Fit for the Job
Understanding a mini excavator’s weight, size, and specs is more than just a numbers game; it’s the key to working smarter, staying safe, and getting jobs done on time. Whether you’re trenching in a tight backyard, lifting loads on a construction site, or hauling equipment between projects, the right dimensions and performance features make all the difference.
Need the Right Attachment for Your Mini Excavator?
No matter what size mini excavator you run, the right attachment can take your productivity to the next level. At Skid Steers Direct, we specialize in high-performance attachments built to fit a wide range of machines, from compact models to larger units.
Browse our selection today or reach out with any questions. We’ll help you find the tools that turn your mini excavator into a jobsite powerhouse.