Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs JCB 50Z-2
The JCB 50Z-2 has 26kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,318kg.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the JCB 50Z-2 has 26kW more power.
- Operating weight: the JCB 50Z-2 is the bigger machine by 3,318kg.
- Dig depth: the JCB 50Z-2 digs 1.42m (4.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | JCB 50Z-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 5030 kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 3.65 m |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 36 kW |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
| Dump height | - | 4.08 m |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, JCB 50Z-2. 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 50Z-2 if...
- you want one that has 26kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 3,318kg
- you want one that digs 1.42m (4.5ft) deeper
A zero tailswing digger for utility trenching, house foundations and road edge work where the rear of the machine has to stay inside the track width. It is used on civils sites and hire fleets that want a 5 tonne class machine.
Full 50Z-2 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the JCB 50Z-2?
The JCB 50Z-2 has 26kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,318kg. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the JCB 50Z-2 is a 5 tonne zero tailswing mini excavator.
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