Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi 33U
The Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,572kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,572kg.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi 33U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 3,487 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | - |
| 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: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi 33U. 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 33U if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,572kg
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 Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi 33U?
The Hitachi 33U is the bigger machine by 1,572kg. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi 33U is a mini excavator, approximately 3 tonne class.
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