Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs JCB 3T-2
The JCB 3T-2 is the bigger machine by 430kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the JCB 3T-2 is the bigger machine by 430kg.
- Engine power: the JCB 3T-2 has 3kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | JCB 3T-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 2345 kg |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 18.9 kW |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | - |
| Payload | - | 3000 kg |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, JCB 3T-2. 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 3T-2 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 430kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
A mid-size site dumper for moving spoil, aggregate and concrete on building and landscaping sites. Common on hire fleets for groundworks where a 1 tonne or 6 tonne machine is the wrong size.
Full 3T-2 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the JCB 3T-2?
The JCB 3T-2 is the bigger machine by 430kg and has 3kW more power. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the JCB 3T-2 is a 3 tonne payload site dumper with front or swivel tip.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.