MMS MS08 B&S
For small trenching and garden jobs on a tight budget. Check the warranty with the seller, since the listing gives none.
Amazon $4,399$4,399
The MMS MS08 B&S is the better mini excavator overall, rated 3.4 to 3.1. The MMS MS08 B&S leads on engine and digging depth. The MechMaxx MEC06 wins on features.
MechMaxx MEC06
#10 in Under 2,800 lbFull review
For light trenching and planting where a narrow machine matters more than depth. Buyers who need to dig past 4 ft should look at a 1 ton machine.
Amazon $4,399$4,399
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 MMS MS08 B&S for engine (13.5 hp engine vs 9 hp engine) and digging depth (47.2 in digging depth vs 43.3 in digging depth).
- Choose the MechMaxx MEC06 for features (swing boom vs mechanical 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 | MMS MS08 B&S | MechMaxx MEC06 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.4/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Price 30% | 100 $4,399 | 100 $4,399 |
| Digging depth 25% | 28 47.2 in digging depth | 13 43.3 in digging depth |
| Engine 15% | 94 13.5 hp engine | 21 9 hp engine |
| Features 25% | 15 mechanical thumb | 25 swing boom |
| Warranty 5% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| MMS MS08 B&S | MechMaxx MEC06 | |
|---|---|---|
| Digging | ||
| Operating weight | 1,764 lb | 1,345 lb |
| Digging depth | 47.2 in | 43.3 in |
| Reach | - | 90.6 in |
| Dump height | 63 in | 67.3 in |
| Bucket width | 13.4 in | 11.4 in |
| Thumb | Mechanical | - |
| Quick hitch | - | No |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | Briggs & Stratton 420 | Loncin G300FDA 300 cc |
| Power | 13.5 hp | 9 hp |
| Fuel | Gas | Gas |
| Machine | ||
| Swing boom | - | Yes |
| Operator cover | Canopy | - |
| Width | 28.4 in | 28 in |
| Warranty | - | 1 year |