Head to head
JCB 86C-2 vs SANY SY26U
The JCB 86C-2 has 33kW more power and is the bigger machine by 5,940kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the JCB 86C-2 has 33kW more power.
- Operating weight: the JCB 86C-2 is the bigger machine by 5,940kg.
- Dig depth: the JCB 86C-2 digs 1.71m (5.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| JCB 86C-2 | SANY SY26U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 8600 kg | 2,660 kg |
| Dig depth | 4.52 m | 2,810 mm |
| Engine power | 48 kW | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm |
| Dump height | 5.39 m | - |
| Transport width | - | 1,550 mm |
Sources: JCB 86C-2, SANY SY26U. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 86C-2 if...
- you want one that has 33kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 5,940kg
- you want one that digs 1.71m (5.5ft) deeper
Used by groundworks and civils contractors for deeper trenching, pipe laying and loading on housing and utility sites. Hire fleets stock it as the step between mini diggers and full-size excavators.
Full 86C-2 specifications →Buy or hire the SY26U if...
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 86C-2 and the SANY SY26U?
The JCB 86C-2 has 33kW more power and is the bigger machine by 5,940kg. The JCB 86C-2 is a 8.6 tonne conventional-tailswing midi excavator; the SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator.
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