Head to head
SANY SY26U vs Wacker Neuson ET42
The Wacker Neuson ET42 has 18kW more power and is the bigger machine by 1,372kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Wacker Neuson ET42 has 18kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Wacker Neuson ET42 is the bigger machine by 1,372kg.
- Dig depth: the Wacker Neuson ET42 digs 73cm (2.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| SANY SY26U | Wacker Neuson ET42 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2,660 kg | 4,032 to 5,206 kg |
| Dig depth | 2,810 mm | 3,544 mm |
| Engine power | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm | 32.5 kW |
| Transport width | 1,550 mm | - |
| Breakout force | - | 43.8 kN |
| Length | - | 5,594 mm |
| Width | - | 1,750 mm |
| Height | - | 2,608 mm |
Sources: SANY SY26U, Wacker Neuson ET42. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
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 →Buy or hire the ET42 if...
- you want one that has 18kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 1,372kg
- you want one that digs 73cm (2.5ft) deeper
A midi excavator for groundworks, utilities and landscaping contractors. At 4.0 tonnes it arrives on a lorry rather than behind a car. It digs to 3,544 mm.
Full ET42 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the SANY SY26U and the Wacker Neuson ET42?
The Wacker Neuson ET42 has 18kW more power and is the bigger machine by 1,372kg. The SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator; the Wacker Neuson ET42 is a midi excavator, 3 to 6 tonnes.
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