Head to head
JCB 8008 CTS vs Kubota U17-3a
The Kubota U17-3a is the bigger machine by 694kg and digs 77cm (2.5ft) deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Kubota U17-3a is the bigger machine by 694kg.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U17-3a digs 77cm (2.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| JCB 8008 CTS | Kubota U17-3a | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,006 kg | 1,700kg |
| Dig depth | 1.69 m | 2,460mm |
| Transport width | 0.7 m | - |
| Transport length | 2.68 m | - |
| Engine power | - | 11.3kW |
Sources: JCB 8008 CTS, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 8008 CTS if...
The JCB 8008 CTS is a micro excavator sized to fit through a standard doorway, making it a fixture on UK internal strip-out, basement and confined-access hire fleets. Its short tail swing lets it work close to walls in spaces a 1.5-2 tonne machine cannot reach. It is typically hired for a specific job rather than bought outright.
Listed by
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
Buy or hire the U17-3a if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 694kg
- you want one that digs 77cm (2.5ft) deeper
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
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the JCB 8008 CTS and the Kubota U17-3a?
The Kubota U17-3a is the bigger machine by 694kg and digs 77cm (2.5ft) deeper. The JCB 8008 CTS is a a sub-1 tonne micro excavator for confined-space and internal demolition work; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.
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