Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Hitachi ZX225US-7
The Hitachi ZX225US-7 is the bigger machine by 22,885kg and has 113kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
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Key differences
- Operating weight: the Hitachi ZX225US-7 is the bigger machine by 22,885kg.
- Engine power: the Hitachi ZX225US-7 has 113kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Hitachi ZX225US-7 digs 3.58m (11.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Hitachi ZX225US-7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 24,800 - 29,100kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 6,120mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 128.4kW (ISO14396) / 122kW (ISO9249) |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Hitachi ZX225US-7. 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 ZX225US-7 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 22,885kg
- you want one that has 113kW more power
- you want one that digs 3.58m (11.5ft) deeper
For contractors working in restricted yards or alongside live structures who still need the dig performance of a 20-tonne-plus machine. The reduced tail swing keeps the counterweight closer to the tracks than a standard crawler excavator of this size.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Hitachi ZX225US-7?
The Hitachi ZX225US-7 is the bigger machine by 22,885kg and has 113kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Hitachi ZX225US-7 is a 22-29 tonne reduced-tail-swing medium excavator.
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