Head to head
Kubota U36-4 vs SANY SY26U
The Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 1,095kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 1,095kg.
- Engine power: the Kubota U36-4 has 3kW more power.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U36-4 digs 60cm (2ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U36-4 | SANY SY26U | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 3755 kg | 2,660 kg |
| Dig depth | 3410 mm | 2,810 mm |
| Engine power | 17.8 kw | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm |
| Width | 1700 mm | - |
| Transport width | - | 1,550 mm |
Sources: Kubota U36-4, SANY SY26U. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the U36-4 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,095kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
- you want one that digs 60cm (2ft) deeper
A zero-tail swing digger for builders, utility firms and hire fleets working beside walls, fences and live traffic. Common for trenching, foundations and drainage on urban sites.
Full U36-4 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 Kubota U36-4 and the SANY SY26U?
The Kubota U36-4 is the bigger machine by 1,095kg and has 3kW more power. The Kubota U36-4 is a 3.5 tonne zero-tail swing compact excavator; the SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator.
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