These are the 1 ton class machines most homeowners buy. Most are about 28 to 37 in wide, so they pass through a garden gate, and they tow on a small utility trailer. The better ones dig about 5 ft deep. The smallest dig closer to 4 ft, which is enough for irrigation and planting but not for footings.
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.
Full ranking 10
- MachPro MP15PRO#1 of 10Full review
For light trenching, stumps and landscaping on a tight budget. Ask about the warranty and parts support before buying.
Amazon $4,999$4,9992,650 lb61.5 in13.5 hp - Typhon Terror XI#2 of 10Full review
For homeowners who want a well equipped 1 ton digger at a low price. Buy from the Typhon store for the lower price.
Amazon $6,999$6,9992,425 lb64 in13.5 hp - Huayee HY12C#3 of 10Full review
For homeowners who want the most digging depth for the money in a gas machine. Ask about the warranty before ordering.
Amazon $5,299$5,2992,646 lb67 in13.5 hp - Typhon Tyrant X#4 of 10Full review
For buyers who want deep digging at a low price and can do without a swing boom. Ask Typhon about the warranty first.
Typhon $5,353.95$5,353.952,205 lb65 in13.5 hp - RELYMG 12U#5 of 10Full review
For budget buyers who want a 1 ton machine delivered with a thumb. The listing leaves out digging depth, so ask before ordering.
Amazon $4,599$4,5992,646 lb-13.5 hp - MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard#6 of 10Full review
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$9,7992,370 lb65.7 in14 hp - MechMaxx MEC12#7 of 10Full review
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$17,0992,700 lb65.7 in13.7 hp - MMS MS08 B&S#8 of 10Full review
For small trenching and garden jobs on a tight budget. Check the warranty with the seller, since the listing gives none.
Amazon $4,399$4,3991,764 lb47.2 in13.5 hp - MechMaxx MEC10 Honda#9 of 10Full review
For buyers who want the MEC10 with a Honda engine at a lower price. The listing leaves out the warranty, so ask before ordering.
Amazon $8,799$8,7992,100 lb65.7 in11.7 hp - MechMaxx MEC06#10 of 10Full 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$4,3991,345 lb43.3 in9 hp