For owners who want a 2 ton diesel with a thumb and pilot controls delivered ready to work. Ask for the digging depth and warranty in writing before buying.
Amazon $12,399.99The MMS MS20P is the better mini excavator overall, rated 3.7 to 3.0. The MMS MS20P leads on features, price and engine. The MMS MS20P costs $14,899.01 less ($12,399.99 vs $27,299).
For owners with big projects who want the deepest digging and a full spec sheet. Most homeowners will not need its depth at this price.
MechMaxx $27,299Prices 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 MS20P for features (hydraulic thumb, swing boom, EPA certified engine, pilot controls vs swing boom), price ($12,399.99 vs $27,299) and engine (18 hp engine vs 15.8 hp engine).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 2,800 lb and up mini excavator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | MMS MS20P | MechMaxx MEC17 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Price 30% | 46 $12,399.99 | 0 $27,299 |
| Digging depth 25% | 50 digging depth not published (neutral score used) | 100 89 in digging depth |
| Engine 15% | 79 18 hp engine | 54 15.8 hp engine |
| Features 25% | 100 hydraulic thumb, swing boom, EPA certified engine, pilot controls | 25 swing boom |
| Warranty 5% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| MMS MS20P | MechMaxx MEC17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Digging | ||
| Operating weight | 4,409 lb | 4,145 lb |
| Digging depth | - | 89 in |
| Reach | - | 154 in |
| Dump height | - | 98 in |
| Bucket width | - | 17.7 in |
| Thumb | Hydraulic | - |
| Quick hitch | Yes | - |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | Kubota D902 | Kubota D902 |
| Power | 18 hp | 15.8 hp |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| EPA certified | Yes | - |
| Machine | ||
| Swing boom | Yes | Yes |
| Pilot controls | Yes | - |
| Tracks | - | Rubber |
| Width | - | 39 in |
| Delivery included | Yes | - |
| Warranty | - | 1 year |
