Smallest Mini Excavator: The Mini yet Mighty One

There are various sizes even for mini excavators. We’ve already known mini excavator sizes before. Now it’s time to dig deeper and explore something more interesting! What is the smallest mini excavator? And what can a small mini excavator do?

Take some time and read the following words. This article contains all of the answers.

What Is the Smallest Mini Excavator?

The smallest mini excavators are designed to excel in the most challenging of spaces. Different manufacturers may have different definitions of the smallest mini excavators. But these machines typically weigh under 1 ton and between 1 to 2 tons.

In the table below, there are some small mini excavator models. You can get a basic idea about their size and power.

Is Micro Mini Excavator Popular?

A rising need for super small 1-to-2-ton mini excavators has changed the compact construction equipment market. Individuals spend more time in their homes due to lockdowns and social distancing rules. Increasing home activities result in DIYers and beginners operating smaller-scale digging machines with precision and ease.

Super small excavators are known for their agile size and easy-to-use controls. They have gained popularity among homeowners and DIY-lovers because they help with tasks demanding lots of manpower.

Smallest Mini Excavator Price

It is really easy to buy a used small mini excavator. On some online auction sites, you can find a used one for about $7,000. Some used small mini excavators require over $50,000.

On the other hand, a new small mini excavator price also varies. The price of a Chinese mini excavator can change from site to site. Go to eBay or Amazon, the price of a new small mini excavator may even be lower than a used one. Before ordering the machine, it’s essential to check every detail.

Smallest Mini Excavator Rental Price

Renting a micro mini excavator is quite hard. Generally, the most common type for renting is 1-to-2-ton mini excavators. On some online renting sites like Bigrentz, the daily, weekly, and monthly rental costs are about $176, $498, and $1,518 respectively.

To get more precise information, you can also check the websites of other rental companies like United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, etc.

Benefits of Small Mini Excavators

Flexibility

Small mini excavators have the advantage of being super compact, which makes them special. These machines can be moved on a trailer and are easy to steer with a pickup truck.

This is a great advantage for those who work as small-sized contractors or do it themselves. Moreover, being small allows mini excavators to move through tight spaces such as narrow gates, interior doorways, and restricted work areas.

Undercarriage and Blade

Some small mini excavators have a retractable undercarriage and a blade. This kind of attribute becomes very useful when working at urban job sites or tasks that involve dense landscaping situations.

The machine can be smaller by pulling back the track, aiding it in going through narrow spaces. When the blade is extended, it offers stability once set up. This makes it suitable for tasks that require precision and the ability to move on ground surfaces like gardens and yards.

Light Footprint

Smaller mini excavators create less impact compared to bigger versions. It’s okay to use them for digging and landscaping without causing much harm. In street or utility work, these machines do not have a high risk of cracking or breaking concrete which will reduce spending on fixing broken things.

Low-Clearance Access

For better functioning in small spaces, ultra-compact excavators usually have foldable blades and roll-over protective structures (ROPS). These things help the machine make its size smaller. Hence, it can go into or come out of areas with low space above them. This characteristic is useful for indoor uses, like digging a basement or fixing places without much headroom.

Urban Construction

Building homes and gardens need machines mindful of the environment. Micro mini excavators enjoy low-noise engines that make less noise and decrease emissions. This move is beneficial for work in neighborhoods or areas sensitive to noise. It also enables tasks to continue without causing unnecessary disturbance for community members and the surroundings.

Also, the compact engineering of these machines demonstrates smartness that provides performance and access at a level not possible with bigger excavator models.

Disadvantages of Small Mini Excavators

Power and Lift Capacity

Small mini excavators possess lesser power and lifting capability. They might not be suitable for jobs demanding the movement of substantial loads or digging deep trenches.

Less Breakout Force

These machines usually have a lesser breakout force. This can create difficulty for tasks that need to break through tough soil or light rock.

Bucket Capacity

Their bucket capacity is usually smaller. It implies that it might need more cycles to transport an equal amount of material. In some tasks, this could lessen the total effectiveness.

Less Stability

Even though they are good for tight spaces, they can still be unstable when they lift loads close to their maximum capacity.

Limited Attachment Options

The types of mini excavator attachments that can be fitted to a super mini excavator may be less varied, decreasing the machine’s flexibility for different jobs.

Less Time at Work

Smaller machines usually carry less fuel, requiring more frequent stops for refueling. If they use battery power, their working time on one charge might be limited.

Applicability

Mini excavators are not always the best choice for all jobs. Sometimes, bigger or heavier machines are needed for large-scale excavation and tough applications.

Operator Comfort

Compact models usually have less operator comfort and convenience features compared to bigger models. This will impact the experience of the person operating it, particularly when working for extended hours.

Last words

Despite their small size, these machines still provide the power and functions for efficient excavation work. Before purchasing a small mini excavator, evaluating the specific project requirements, budget, and long-term use will help you make a better choice. Small mini excavators are a valuable asset for those seeking a space-saving excavation solution.

FAQ

It is safe to operate a small mini excavator?

A mini excavator can be safe if you follow all necessary safety precautions. These precautions include receiving proper training, wearing appropriate protective gear, and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is also crucial to maintain the machine by conducting regular check-ups and repairs. However, accidents can still occur due to human error or problems with the equipment itself. Therefore, remaining vigilant and focused while using these machines is essential.

Is it a good idea to buy a small mini excavator?

For small-scale works that need excavation service, having a mini excavator can prove a cost-effective and handy alternative. It may assist in saving money by avoiding regular renting charges while also offering increased flexibility and command over your projects.

Nevertheless, if you use such services once in a while only then renting could turn out to be more economical for you. Moreover, the expenses for upkeeping, keeping, and possible non-operation when you assess if buying a mini excavator is a suitable investment.

What is the difference between a micro excavator and a mini excavator?

Micro excavators are the smallest class of excavators, usually weighing less than 1.5 tons. They have a smaller digging depth and lifting capacity but are ideal for small areas where precision is important and for delicate tasks.

The next size up is the mini excavator, weighing between 1.5 to 10 tons. It offers more capacity for digging deep and lifting heavier loads higher up off the ground and can manage somewhat bigger projects. The choice between the two depends on the size and specific requirements of the job.