Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs Kubota U27-4
The Kubota U27-4 is the bigger machine by 890kg and digs 36cm (1ft) deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Kubota U27-4 is the bigger machine by 890kg.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U27-4 digs 36cm (1ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | Kubota U27-4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | 2,590kg or 2,490kg depending on variant |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | 2,820mm maximum |
| Engine power | 11.3kW | - |
| Maximum reach | - | 4,740mm |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, Kubota U27-4. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
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
Buy or hire the U27-4 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 890kg
- you want one that digs 36cm (1ft) deeper
The step up from the KX019-4 when you need more depth and reach but still have to work close to walls and fences. Tight tail swing is what makes it usable in an occupied garden, and it is one of the most common hire machines in Britain for exactly that reason.
Listed by
- MY Tool Hire Ltd - Harrow
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Common questions
What is the difference between the Kubota U17-3a and the Kubota U27-4?
The Kubota U27-4 is the bigger machine by 890kg and digs 36cm (1ft) deeper. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the Kubota U27-4 is a tight tail swing compact excavator, around 2.5 tonnes.
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