Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs Takeuchi TB216
The Takeuchi TB216 is the bigger machine by 165kg and has 0kW more power. The Kubota U17-3a digs 7cm deeper.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the Takeuchi TB216 is the bigger machine by 165kg.
- Dig depth: the Kubota U17-3a digs 7cm deeper.
- Engine power: the Takeuchi TB216 has 0kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | Takeuchi TB216 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | 1,865 / 1,770 kg (cab/canopy) |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | 2,390 mm |
| Engine power | 11.3kW | 11.5 kW at 2,400 rpm (Yanmar 3TNV70) |
| Extendable undercarriage width | - | 980 - 1,300 mm |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, Takeuchi TB216. 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 7cm 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
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Beaver Tool Hire - Isleworth, Twickenham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the TB216 if...
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 165kg
- you want one that has 0kW more power
The Takeuchi TB216 is a long-running fixture of the UK 1.5-2 tonne mini excavator hire class, used for groundworks, drainage and small demolition jobs. Its extendable undercarriage gives it the stability of a wider track base for digging while still narrowing for transport and access. It competes closely with the Kubota KX019-4 and similarly sized Bobcat and JCB machines for the same hire slots.
Full TB216 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Kubota U17-3a and the Takeuchi TB216?
The Takeuchi TB216 is the bigger machine by 165kg and has 0kW more power. The Kubota U17-3a digs 7cm deeper. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the Takeuchi TB216 is a a 1.7-1.9 tonne conventional tail swing mini excavator.
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