Best Small Mini Excavators Under 2,800 lb Ranked

10 mini excavators under 2,800 lb.

Last updated: November 3, 2026

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

  1. MachPro MP15PRO
    #1 of 104.1Full review

    For light trenching, stumps and landscaping on a tight budget. Ask about the warranty and parts support before buying.

    Amazon $4,999
    $4,999
    2,650 lb61.5 in13.5 hp
  2. Typhon Terror XI
    #2 of 104.1Full 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
    $6,999
    2,425 lb64 in13.5 hp
  3. Huayee HY12C
    #3 of 104.0Full 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
    $5,299
    2,646 lb67 in13.5 hp
  4. Typhon Tyrant X
    #4 of 104.0Full 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
    $5,353.95
    2,205 lb65 in13.5 hp
  5. RELYMG 12U
    #5 of 103.9Full 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
    $4,599
    2,646 lb-13.5 hp
  6. MechMaxx MEC10 Vanguard
    #6 of 103.9Full 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
    $9,799
    2,370 lb65.7 in14 hp
  7. MechMaxx MEC12
    #7 of 103.6Full 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
    $17,099
    2,700 lb65.7 in13.7 hp
  8. MMS MS08 B&S
    #8 of 103.4Full 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
    $4,399
    1,764 lb47.2 in13.5 hp
  9. MechMaxx MEC10 Honda
    #9 of 103.3Full 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
    $8,799
    2,100 lb65.7 in11.7 hp
  10. MechMaxx MEC06
    #10 of 103.1Full 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
    1,345 lb43.3 in9 hp