Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Wacker Neuson ET20
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 2kW more power. The Wacker Neuson ET20 digs 14cm deeper and is the bigger machine by 90kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 2kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Wacker Neuson ET20 digs 14cm deeper.
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET20 is the bigger machine by 90kg.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Wacker Neuson ET20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 2,005 to 2,526 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2,683 mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 13.8 kW |
| Breakout force | - | 18.8 kN |
| Length | - | 4,049 mm |
| Width | - | 990 mm |
| Height | - | 2,385 mm |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Wacker Neuson ET20. 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 has 2kW more power
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 ET20 if...
- you want one that digs 14cm deeper
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 90kg
A step up for bigger footings, groundworks and landscaping. At 2.0 tonnes it needs a 3.5 tonne plant trailer and a tow vehicle rated for the combined weight, or delivery on a lorry. Maximum dig depth is 2,683 mm.
Full ET20 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Wacker Neuson ET20?
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 2kW more power. The Wacker Neuson ET20 digs 14cm deeper and is the bigger machine by 90kg. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET20 is a 2.5 to 3 tonne class mini excavator.
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