Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs JCB 25Z-1
The JCB 25Z-1 is the bigger machine by 635kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the JCB 25Z-1 is the bigger machine by 635kg.
- Engine power: the JCB 25Z-1 has 3kW more power.
- Dig depth: the JCB 25Z-1 digs 28cm deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | JCB 25Z-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 2550 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2.82 m |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 18.4 kW |
| Dump height | - | 3 m |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, JCB 25Z-1. 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 25Z-1 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 635kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
- you want one that digs 28cm deeper
Used by hire firms and small contractors for patios, drainage, footings and work next to walls and fences where a zero-tailswing machine is needed. Sits in the weight class that can be towed on a trailer in restricted regions.
Full 25Z-1 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the JCB 25Z-1?
The JCB 25Z-1 is the bigger machine by 635kg and has 3kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the JCB 25Z-1 is a 2.5 tonne zero-tailswing mini excavator.
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