Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Kubota U50-5
The Kubota U50-5 has 25kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,860kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Kubota U50-5 has 25kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Kubota U50-5 is the bigger machine by 2,860kg.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U50-5 digs 83cm (2.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Kubota U50-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 4,775kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 3,370mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 40.4kW |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Kubota U50-5. 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 U50-5 if...
- you want one that has 25kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 2,860kg
- you want one that digs 83cm (2.5ft) deeper
A mid-size mini excavator for groundworkers who need more reach and dig depth than the smaller Kubota models while still keeping a compact machine for site access. Suits drainage, footings and utility trenching.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Kubota U50-5?
The Kubota U50-5 has 25kW more power and is the bigger machine by 2,860kg. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Kubota U50-5 is a 4.8 tonne mini excavator.
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