Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Hitachi 33U
The Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,775kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,775kg.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Hitachi 33U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 3,487 kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | - |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | - |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
| Width | - | 1,550 mm |
| Rated power ISO 9249 | - | 21.2 kW (28.4 HP) at 2,400 min-1 (rpm) (net) |
| Fuel tank | - | 42.0 L |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Hitachi 33U. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the E17z if...
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,712kg it goes on a braked plant trailer behind a large 4x4 or pickup, and digs to 2230mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts. Zero tail swing means the back of the machine stays inside the tracks when it slews, so it can work tight against a wall or in one lane of a road.
Listed by
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the 33U if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,775kg
A compact tracked excavator from Hitachi's smaller size class, used for groundworks, drainage and landscaping jobs too tight for a larger machine. It is bought and sold through the used plant market rather than as a current Hitachi catalogue model.
Listed by
- Plant Sales Northern Ireland | P & A Plant Sales - Ballynahinch
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Hitachi 33U?
The Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,775kg. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Hitachi 33U is a mini excavator, approximately 3 tonne class.
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