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Head to head

Hitachi ZX85USB-6 vs Niftylift HR15 4x4

The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is the bigger machine by 3,930kg.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Hitachi ZX85USB-6
Hitachi ZX85USB-6 - image: Barnes Plant Sales Ltd
Niftylift HR15 4x4
Niftylift HR15 4x4 - image: niftylift.com

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Hitachi ZX85USB-6Niftylift HR15 4x4
Operating weight8,430 - 9,060kg4,500kg diesel, 4,800kg hybrid, stated as minimum
Dig depth3,910 - 4,510mm-
Engine power42.4kW-
Working height-15.7m (51ft 6in)
Working outreach-9.4m (31ft)
Platform capacity-225kg

Sources: Hitachi ZX85USB-6, Niftylift HR15 4x4. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the ZX85USB-6 if...

  • you want one that is the bigger machine by 3,930kg

A popular hire-fleet size for groundworkers and utility contractors who need more reach and dig depth than a mini excavator but still want a zero-swing tail for working close to walls and other plant. Common on drainage and footing jobs on housing sites.

Listed by

Full ZX85USB-6 specifications →

Buy or hire the HR15 4x4 if...

A British-built boom lift favoured by hire fleets for its narrow 2m width and tight turning circle, which let it reach working heights that normally require a much larger machine on a more constrained site. The flexible boom design allows working up and over obstacles.

Full HR15 4x4 specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Hitachi ZX85USB-6 and the Niftylift HR15 4x4?

The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is the bigger machine by 3,930kg. The Hitachi ZX85USB-6 is a 8.4-9.1 tonne zero tail swing crawler excavator; the Niftylift HR15 4x4 is a self-propelled articulating boom lift.

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