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Head to head

Hitachi ZX225US-7 vs Kubota U17-3a

The Hitachi ZX225US-7 is the bigger machine by 23.1 tonnes and has 117kW more power.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Hitachi ZX225US-7
Hitachi ZX225US-7 - image: Hitachi
Kubota U17-3a
Kubota U17-3a - image: ke.kubota-eu.com

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Hitachi ZX225US-7Kubota U17-3a
Operating weight24,800 - 29,100kg1,700kg
Dig depth6,120mm2,460mm
Engine power128.4kW (ISO14396) / 122kW (ISO9249)11.3kW

Sources: Hitachi ZX225US-7, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the ZX225US-7 if...

  • you want one that is the bigger machine by 23.1 tonnes
  • you want one that has 117kW more power
  • you want one that digs 3.66m (12ft) deeper

For contractors working in restricted yards or alongside live structures who still need the dig performance of a 20-tonne-plus machine. The reduced tail swing keeps the counterweight closer to the tracks than a standard crawler excavator of this size.

Listed by

Full ZX225US-7 specifications →

Buy or hire the U17-3a if...

A step up from a micro excavator for landscaping and groundworks contractors who need more dig depth and breakout force while still fitting through a standard gate or gap. Common on garden and small drainage jobs.

Listed by

Full U17-3a specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Hitachi ZX225US-7 and the Kubota U17-3a?

The Hitachi ZX225US-7 is the bigger machine by 23.1 tonnes and has 117kW more power. The Hitachi ZX225US-7 is a 22-29 tonne reduced-tail-swing medium excavator; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.

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