Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Takeuchi TB230
The Takeuchi TB230 is the bigger machine by 960kg and digs 30cm deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Takeuchi TB230 is the bigger machine by 960kg.
- Dig depth: the Takeuchi TB230 digs 30cm deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Takeuchi TB230 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 2875 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2835 mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | - |
| Dump height | - | 3230 mm |
| Breakout force | - | 20.9 kN |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Takeuchi TB230. 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 TB230 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 960kg
- you want one that digs 30cm deeper
A 3 tonne class digger used by hire companies, utility contractors and builders for trenching, drainage and foundations. Suits sites where a larger 3.5 tonne machine is too wide or heavy.
Full TB230 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Takeuchi TB230?
The Takeuchi TB230 is the bigger machine by 960kg and digs 30cm deeper. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Takeuchi TB230 is a 2.8 tonne compact excavator.
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