Head to head
Bobcat E17z vs Kubota U50-5
The Kubota U50-5 has 30kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,063kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Kubota U50-5 has 30kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Kubota U50-5 is the bigger machine by 3,063kg.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U50-5 digs 1.14m (3.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Bobcat E17z | Kubota U50-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1712kg | 4,775kg |
| Dig depth | 2230mm | 3,370mm |
| Engine power | 10.1kW | 40.4kW |
| Breakout force | 11.92kN | - |
Sources: Bobcat E17z, Kubota U50-5. 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
Buy or hire the U50-5 if...
- you want one that has 30kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 3,063kg
- you want one that digs 1.14m (3.5ft) deeper
A mid-size mini excavator for groundworkers who need more reach and dig depth than the smaller Kubota models while still keeping a compact machine for site access. Suits drainage, footings and utility trenching.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bobcat E17z and the Kubota U50-5?
The Kubota U50-5 has 30kW more power and is the bigger machine by 3,063kg. The Bobcat E17z is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator, zero tail swing; the Kubota U50-5 is a 4.8 tonne mini excavator.
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