Head to head
SANY SY26U vs Takeuchi TB216
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 795kg and has 3kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Operating weight: the SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 795kg.
- Engine power: the SANY SY26U has 3kW more power.
- Dig depth: the SANY SY26U digs 42cm (1.5ft) deeper.
Specifications side by side
| SANY SY26U | Takeuchi TB216 | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 2,660 kg | 1,865 / 1,770 kg (cab/canopy) |
| Dig depth | 2,810 mm | 2,390 mm |
| Engine power | 14.6 kW at 2,400 rpm | 11.5 kW at 2,400 rpm (Yanmar 3TNV70) |
| Transport width | 1,550 mm | - |
| Extendable undercarriage width | - | 980 - 1,300 mm |
Sources: SANY SY26U, Takeuchi TB216. 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 795kg
- you want one that has 3kW more power
- you want one that digs 42cm (1.5ft) deeper
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 TB216 if...
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 SANY SY26U and the Takeuchi TB216?
The SANY SY26U is the bigger machine by 795kg and has 3kW more power. The SANY SY26U is a a 2.6 tonne mini excavator; the Takeuchi TB216 is a a 1.7-1.9 tonne conventional tail swing mini excavator.
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