Head to head
Caterpillar D3 vs JCB 3CX
The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 1,227kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 1,227kg.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar D3 | JCB 3CX | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 9362kg (20,640lb) | 8,135kg standard and Contractor, 8,435kg on 3CX Super |
| Engine power | 77.6kW (104hp) | - |
| Blade capacity | 2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks | - |
| Engine | Cat C3.6 | - |
| Dig depth | - | 4.24m with standard dipper, up to 5.46m with Extradig |
Sources: Caterpillar D3, JCB 3CX. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the D3 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,227kg
Caterpillar's smallest crawler dozer, used for fine grading, landscaping and confined-site work where a full-size dozer won't fit. Common in UK plant hire fleets alongside mini excavators.
Listed by
- B & T Plant Hire - Gravesend
- B & T Plant Hire Ltd - Morden
Buy or hire the 3CX if...
The machine most people picture when they think of a building site, and still the default where one machine has to both dig and load. Groundworkers and utilities contractors buy it precisely to avoid putting two machines on a small site.
Listed by
- TPH Plant Hire - Gravesend, Northfleet
- Red Plant Sales Ltd - Colchester, Frating
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar D3 and the JCB 3CX?
The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 1,227kg. The Caterpillar D3 is a small crawler dozer; the JCB 3CX is a wheeled backhoe loader.
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