Head to head
JCB 3T-2 vs SANY SY26U
The JCB 3T-2 has 4kW more power. The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 315kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the JCB 3T-2 has 4kW more power.
- Operating weight: the SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 315kg.
Specifications side by side
| JCB 3T-2 | SANY SY26U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2345 kg | 2,660 kg |
| Engine power | 18.9 kW | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm |
| Payload | 3000 kg | - |
| Dig depth | - | 2,810 mm |
| Transport width | - | 1,550 mm |
Sources: JCB 3T-2, SANY SY26U. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 3T-2 if...
- you want one that has 4kW more power
A mid-size site dumper for moving spoil, aggregate and concrete on building and landscaping sites. Common on hire fleets for groundworks where a 1 tonne or 6 tonne machine is the wrong size.
Full 3T-2 specifications →Buy or hire the SY26U if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 315kg
The SANY SY26U is a 2.6 tonne mini excavator positioned as a value alternative to the established Kubota, JCB and Takeuchi machines in the same size class, sold in the UK through a small number of appointed dealers. SANY's UK presence is newer and thinner than the market leaders, so buyers weigh the lower purchase price against a less mature parts and resale network. It is more often bought outright by owner-operators than stocked in volume by the large national hire fleets.
Full SY26U specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the JCB 3T-2 and the SANY SY26U?
The JCB 3T-2 has 4kW more power. The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 315kg. The JCB 3T-2 is a 3 tonne payload site dumper with front or swivel tip; the SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator.
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