MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard
For owners who want a known engine brand and a spec table they can check. It costs far more than look-alike 1 ton diggers.
Amazon $9,799$9,799
The MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard is the better mini excavator overall, rated 3.9 to 3.6. The MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard leads on price. The MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard costs $7,300 less ($9,799 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 MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard for price ($9,799 vs $17,099).
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 | MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard | MechMaxx MEC12 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Price 30% | 21 $9,799 | 0 $17,099 |
| Digging depth 25% | 99 65.7 in digging depth | 99 65.7 in digging depth |
| Engine 15% | 100 14 hp engine | 96 13.7 hp engine |
| Features 25% | 75 hydraulic thumb, swing boom, pilot controls | 75 hydraulic thumb, swing boom, pilot controls |
| Warranty 5% | 50 1-year warranty | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard | MechMaxx MEC12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Digging | ||
| Operating weight | 2,370 lb | 2,700 lb |
| Digging depth | 65.7 in | 65.7 in |
| Reach | 119 in | 119 in |
| Dump height | 80 in | 81.1 in |
| Bucket width | 15 in | 15 in |
| Thumb | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 408 cc | Kubota D722 |
| Power | 14 hp | 13.7 hp |
| Fuel | Gas | Diesel |
| Machine | ||
| Swing boom | Yes | Yes |
| Pilot controls | Yes | Yes |
| Width | 37 in | 34.6 in |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |