Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Kubota KX018-4
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is the bigger machine by 195kg and digs 16cm deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR is the bigger machine by 195kg.
- Dig depth: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR digs 16cm deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Kubota KX018-4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | up to 1720kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2380mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | - |
| Width | - | 1300mm |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Kubota KX018-4. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 301.7 CR if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 195kg
- you want one that digs 16cm deeper
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 KX018-4 if...
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,720kg it goes on a braked plant trailer behind a large 4x4 or pickup, and digs to 2380mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts.
Full KX018-4 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Kubota KX018-4?
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is the bigger machine by 195kg and digs 16cm deeper. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Kubota KX018-4 is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator.
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