Head to head
Caterpillar D3 vs JCB 3CX Compact
The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 3,292kg and has 23kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 3,292kg.
- Engine power: the Caterpillar D3 has 23kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar D3 | JCB 3CX Compact | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 9362kg (20,640lb) | 6070 kg |
| Engine power | 77.6kW (104hp) | 55 kW |
| Blade capacity | 2.19m3, or 2.34m3 with LGP tracks | - |
| Engine | Cat C3.6 | - |
| Dig depth | - | 5 m |
| Travel Speed | - | 40 kph |
Sources: Caterpillar D3, JCB 3CX Compact. 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 3,292kg
- you want one that has 23kW more power
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 Compact if...
Aimed at utility, highways and town-centre work where a full-size backhoe will not fit. Used for trenching, loading and breaking out on narrow roads, estates and tight sites.
Full 3CX Compact specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar D3 and the JCB 3CX Compact?
The Caterpillar D3 is the bigger machine by 3,292kg and has 23kW more power. The Caterpillar D3 is a small crawler dozer; the JCB 3CX Compact is a compact backhoe loader about 2 m wide.
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