Compact vs. Full-Size Excavators: 10 Pros and Cons

If you are in the market for a new excavator, one of the first things you will need to consider is the size, as these machines come in several size categories to suit different requirements.

Excavators are manufactured in a variety of sizes to enable greater efficiency and effectiveness in project execution. The availability of different versions of the same machine ensures that operators can select the right type for the specific demands of their tasks, thus optimizing performance and minimizing potential disruptions. 

Whether your priority is precision in a tight space or raw power for extensive excavation, the range of excavator sizes available guarantees that there is an appropriate tool for nearly every type of excavation job.

The smallest size category is compact excavators, also often referred to as “mini” excavators. The machines in this category typically weigh between 1 and 5 metric tons.

One size up is the category of medium excavators, sometimes referred to as “standard” excavators. These are slightly larger and usually weigh between 5 and 25 metric tons. Excavators that are considered “large” or “heavy-duty” typically weigh between 25 and 50 metric tons.

The Pros and Cons of a Compact vs. a Full-Size Excavator

While compact excavators are considered distinct from others, both medium and large excavators can generally be classified as part of the larger category of “full-size” machines. 

Of course, there are numerous uses and advantages to both compact and full-size excavators. However, what are some of the primary differences between using one of these machines over the other? The following are some of the main pros and cons of using a compact vs. a full-size excavator:

The Pros of Using a Compact Excavator

1. Accessibility

Compact excavators are versatile machines suitable for a wide range of applications, including landscaping, utility work, indoor demolition, and plumbing. However, they are especially helpful in areas where space is limited.

Working in tight spaces without any performance limitations is one of the main advantages of having a compact excavator. This is why they are used in projects where such spatial constraints exist. In addition to their smaller size, compact excavators also have little to no tail swing, making them easier to maneuver around buildings or other structures.

If work needs to be done in an area where a full-sized excavator cannot fit, such as between buildings, a compact excavator can save the day. In addition, if you must operate on soft ground, the lightweight of a compact excavator will allow you to do so without risking damage.

2. Ease of transportation

Thanks to their small size, compact excavators are much easier to transport than full-sized ones. Since they can easily be towed behind a large pickup truck or trailer, having a compact excavator can increase your mobility. This can make a significant difference when you have sites in a city where large trucks are prohibited, require a permit for their use, or when seasonal road restrictions are in place.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Another advantage of a compact excavator is its cost-effectiveness. Not only are compact excavators less expensive than full-size types, but they also incur fewer costs over time. One of the reasons compact excavators are more cost-effective is that they have lower maintenance costs than their larger counterparts.

Additionally, due to their smaller size and lighter weight, compact excavators are generally more fuel-efficient. The fact that compact excavators also have lower hydraulic system demands and smaller, more efficient pumps further contributes to their reduced fuel consumption.

The Cons of Using a Compact Excavator

1. Reduced digging depth and reach

Compared to larger excavators, compact ones have a reduced digging depth and reach potential. Thus, they may not be suitable for tasks requiring extensive excavation or deep trenching, which limits their use in large-scale construction or mining projects.

2. Limited power and durability

Although compact excavators are designed to be manoeuvrable and efficient, their smaller size also means they have a lower lifting capacity. This can be a disadvantage when handling heavy loads or performing tasks that require significant lifting power.

Since they do not have the same power as larger machines, their durability can also be impacted, as increased wear and tear can occur during more demanding operations.

The Pros of Using a Full-Size Excavator

1. Impressive power and lifting capacity

With robust engines and hydraulic systems, full-size excavators can handle substantial loads and efficiently manage large volumes of material. This makes them ideal for earth-moving tasks, such as large-scale construction projects, mining operations, and major infrastructure developments where heavy lifting and significant digging capabilities are required.

2. Greater reach and digging depth

Another key advantage of full-size excavators is their greater reach and digging depth. Since these machines are designed to operate in larger and more demanding environments, they offer superior extension and digging capabilities compared to smaller models. This extended reach and depth enable them to easily tackle complex tasks, such as deep trenching, large-scale grading, and high-wall excavations.

The Cons of Using a Full-Size Excavator

1. Limited access and heightened site impact

Due to their size and weight, full-size excavators often have limited manoeuvrability and cannot access tight or confined spaces.

Full-size excavators also present challenges related to site impact and environmental considerations, since their size and weight can lead to ground disturbances, potentially causing soil compaction and damage to work sites. This can be especially problematic in sensitive or environmentally protected areas, where minimizing impact is crucial.

2. Transportation complications

The considerable weight and dimensions of full-size excavators often require the use of specialized transport vehicles and equipment, such as lowboy trailers or flatbed trucks, which can increase transportation costs and require additional permits or route planning. Therefore, moving a full-size excavator from one job site to another often needs more logistical considerations.

3. Lower cost-effectiveness

Full-size excavators typically have higher upfront costs and higher operational costs compared to compact ones. Their larger engines and hydraulic systems consume more fuel, resulting in higher fuel expenses during operation. Also, the maintenance and repair costs for these machines are typically higher due to their complex and heavy-duty components.

How Nors Can Help You With Your Excavator Rental Needs

Compact and full-size excavators complement each other well, as one picks up where the other leaves off. Still, depending on the specific demands of your construction projects, whether you need a compact excavator or a full-size one, Nors can help by providing excavator rental options.

We have a large stock of excavators from industry-leading brands, available in a variety of sizes, to meet your needs, regardless of what they may be. 

​For more information about our excavator rental options or to learn more about the various types of excavators we have available, call Nors at 1-833-730-0613 or contact us here.