Head to head
JCB STH-2S5 Swivel vs Kubota U17-3a
The JCB STH-2S5 Swivel has 8kW more power and is the bigger machine by 690kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the JCB STH-2S5 Swivel has 8kW more power.
- Operating weight: the JCB STH-2S5 Swivel is the bigger machine by 690kg.
Specifications side by side
| JCB STH-2S5 Swivel | Kubota U17-3a | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2,390kg | 1,700kg |
| Engine power | 18.9kW | 11.3kW |
| Skip capacity | 1,615 litres (heaped) | - |
| Dig depth | - | 2,460mm |
Sources: JCB STH-2S5 Swivel, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the STH-2S5 Swivel if...
- you want one that has 8kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 690kg
A compact swivel dumper for smaller groundworks and landscaping contractors who need to tip to the side without repositioning, popular on domestic extension and garden sites where access is tight.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
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
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the JCB STH-2S5 Swivel and the Kubota U17-3a?
The JCB STH-2S5 Swivel has 8kW more power and is the bigger machine by 690kg. The JCB STH-2S5 Swivel is a 3 tonne swivel-skip site dumper; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.
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