Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs Wacker Neuson ET18
The Wacker Neuson ET18 has 3kW more power and is the bigger machine by 25kg. The Kubota U17-3a digs 6cm deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Wacker Neuson ET18 has 3kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U17-3a digs 6cm deeper.
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET18 is the bigger machine by 25kg.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | Wacker Neuson ET18 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | 1,725 to 2,405 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | 2,402 mm |
| Engine power | 11.3kW | 13.8 kW |
| Breakout force | - | 18.8 kN |
| Length | - | 3,854 mm |
| Width | - | 990 mm |
| Height | - | 2,289 mm |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, Wacker Neuson ET18. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the U17-3a if...
- you want one that digs 6cm 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
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
Buy or hire the ET18 if...
- you want one that has 3kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 25kg
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,725kg it digs to 2,402 mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts.
Full ET18 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Kubota U17-3a and the Wacker Neuson ET18?
The Wacker Neuson ET18 has 3kW more power and is the bigger machine by 25kg. The Kubota U17-3a digs 6cm deeper. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET18 is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator.
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