Head to head
SANY SY26U vs Wacker Neuson ET16
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 1,131kg and digs 40cm (1.5ft) deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 1,131kg.
- Dig depth: the SANY SY26U digs 40cm (1.5ft) deeper.
- Engine power: the SANY SY26U has 1kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| SANY SY26U | Wacker Neuson ET16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2,660 kg | 1,529 to 1,842 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,810 mm | 2,413 mm |
| Engine power | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm | 13.8 kW |
| Transport width | 1,550 mm | - |
| Breakout force | - | 15.3 kN |
| Length | - | 3,644 mm |
| Width | - | 990 mm |
| Height | - | 2,285 mm |
Sources: SANY SY26U, Wacker Neuson ET16. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the SY26U if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,131kg
- you want one that digs 40cm (1.5ft) deeper
- you want one that has 1kW more power
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 →Buy or hire the ET16 if...
The 1.5 tonne class is the busiest size in UK hire fleets. At 1,529kg it goes on a braked plant trailer behind a large 4x4 or pickup, and digs to 2,413 mm for footings, drainage runs and fence posts.
Listed by
- GEM Plant Sales Limited - Ashford, Sevington, Willesborough
Common questions
What is the difference between the SANY SY26U and the Wacker Neuson ET16?
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 1,131kg and digs 40cm (1.5ft) deeper. The SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET16 is a 1.5 tonne class mini excavator.
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