For buyers who want a full attachment kit in the box. If you only need a bucket and thumb, the Terror XVII Pro digs deeper for less.
Amazon $17,499The Typhon Tyrant 17 is the better mini excavator overall, rated 3.5 to 3.0. The Typhon Tyrant 17 leads on features and price. The MechMaxx MEC17 wins on digging depth. The Typhon Tyrant 17 costs $9,800 less ($17,499 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 Typhon Tyrant 17 for features (hydraulic thumb, swing boom, EPA certified engine, pilot controls vs swing boom) and price ($17,499 vs $27,299).
- Choose the MechMaxx MEC17 for digging depth (89 in digging depth vs 78.7 in digging depth).
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 | Typhon Tyrant 17 | MechMaxx MEC17 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Price 30% | 13 $17,499 | 0 $27,299 |
| Digging depth 25% | 79 78.7 in digging depth | 100 89 in digging depth |
| Engine 15% | 56 16 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
| Typhon Tyrant 17 | MechMaxx MEC17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Digging | ||
| Operating weight | 3,800 lb | 4,145 lb |
| Digging depth | 78.7 in | 89 in |
| Reach | - | 154 in |
| Dump height | - | 98 in |
| Bucket width | 16.3 in | 17.7 in |
| Thumb | Hydraulic | - |
| Quick hitch | Yes | - |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | Kubota D902 | Kubota D902 |
| Power | 16 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 |
