Huayee HY12C
For homeowners who want the most digging depth for the money in a gas machine. Ask about the warranty before ordering.
Amazon $5,299$5,299
The Huayee HY12C is the better mini excavator overall, rated 4.0 to 3.6. The Huayee HY12C leads on price. The MechMaxx MEC12 wins on features. The Huayee HY12C costs $11,800 less ($5,299 vs $17,099).
MechMaxx MEC12
For heavy regular use where a Kubota diesel and expandable tracks justify the price. Occasional users get the same digging depth for far less.
Amazon $17,099$17,099
Prices were last checked November 3, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Huayee HY12C for price ($5,299 vs $17,099).
- Choose the MechMaxx MEC12 for features (hydraulic thumb, swing boom, pilot controls vs hydraulic thumb).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every under 2,800 lb mini excavator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Huayee HY12C | MechMaxx MEC12 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Price 30% | 83 $5,299 | 0 $17,099 |
| Digging depth 25% | 100 67 in digging depth | 99 65.7 in digging depth |
| Engine 15% | 94 13.5 hp engine | 96 13.7 hp engine |
| Features 25% | 30 hydraulic thumb | 75 hydraulic thumb, swing boom, pilot controls |
| Warranty 5% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Huayee HY12C | MechMaxx MEC12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Digging | ||
| Operating weight | 2,646 lb | 2,700 lb |
| Digging depth | 67 in | 65.7 in |
| Reach | 120 in | 119 in |
| Dump height | 67 in | 81.1 in |
| Bucket width | - | 15 in |
| Thumb | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | 420 cc gas | Kubota D722 |
| Power | 13.5 hp | 13.7 hp |
| Fuel | Gas | Diesel |
| Machine | ||
| Swing boom | - | Yes |
| Pilot controls | - | Yes |
| Operator cover | Canopy | - |
| Tracks | Rubber | - |
| Width | 37 in | 34.6 in |
| Warranty | - | 1 year |