Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs SANY SY26U
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 960kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 2 November 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 960kg.
- Engine power: the SANY SY26U has 3kW more power.
- Dig depth: the SANY SY26U digs 35cm (1ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | SANY SY26U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | 2,660 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | 2,810 mm |
| Engine power | 11.3kW | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm |
| Transport width | - | 1,550 mm |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, SANY SY26U. 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
- Beaver Tool Hire - Isleworth, Twickenham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the SY26U if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 960kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
- you want one that digs 35cm (1ft) deeper
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 Kubota U17-3a and the SANY SY26U?
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 960kg and has 3kW more power. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator.
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