Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Genie Z-45/25J RT
The Genie Z-45/25J RT is the bigger machine by 4.6 tonnes.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Genie Z-45/25J RT is the bigger machine by 4.6 tonnes.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Genie Z-45/25J RT | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 6,515kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | - |
| Working height | - | 15.86m (51ft 6in) maximum |
| Platform height | - | 13.86m (45ft 6in) maximum |
| Platform capacity | - | 227kg unrestricted |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Genie Z-45/25J RT. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 301.7 CR if...
The Cat 301.7 CR is Caterpillar's roughly 2 tonne mini excavator, built around the Cat C1.1 engine and backed by Caterpillar's dealer network for parts and service. It is specified on UK sites for the same drainage, groundworks and utility jobs as the Kubota U27-4 and Takeuchi TB216, with buyers often citing Cat's residual values and dealer support over price. It is one of the smaller models in Caterpillar's wider mini excavator line-up, which extends up to around 10 tonnes.
Full 301.7 CR specifications →Buy or hire the Z-45/25J RT if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 4.6 tonnes
A widely hired rough-terrain boom for construction and outdoor maintenance. The articulating up-and-over jib is what separates it from a straight telescopic boom: it reaches over an obstacle rather than only to it, which is often the entire requirement.
Full Z-45/25J RT specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Genie Z-45/25J RT?
The Genie Z-45/25J RT is the bigger machine by 4.6 tonnes. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Genie Z-45/25J RT is a rough terrain articulating boom lift.
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