Mini Excavator vs Skid Steer: Which Machine Should You Hire?
Both are compact and versatile, but they excel at very different jobs. Operator and site requirements vary by machine and job — here’s how to compare their practical uses.
1.7T Mini Excavator (Kubota U17-3)
$250/dayPros
- Superior digging depth (2.3m+)
- Zero tail swing for tight access
- Precise trenching around pipes
- Can dig below grade
Cons
- Limited to digging and lifting
- Can't sweep or grade large areas
- Rubber tracks can damage lawns on hot days
Best For
Trenching, footings, retaining wall excavations, stump removal, tight-access sites
Bobcat S70 Skid Steer
$275/dayPros
- Faster material handling
- Multiple attachments (bucket, forks, broom)
- Excellent for levelling and grading
- Can load trucks and trailers
Cons
- Can't dig deep trenches
- Wider footprint — needs more access room
- Less precise for detailed excavation
Best For
Site clean-ups, spreading soil/gravel, loading tipper trucks, levelling, post-demolition cleanup
Side-by-Side Specs
| Feature | 1.7T Mini Excavator (Kubota U17-3) | Bobcat S70 Skid Steer |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Rate | $250 | $275 |
| Digging Depth | 2.3m+ | Limited |
| Operating Weight | 1.7T | 1.2T |
| Tail Swing | Zero | N/A |
| Attachments | Buckets, auger, grab | Bucket, forks, broom, grapple |
| Best For | Digging below grade | Moving material on surface |
| Operator Requirements | Competent operator required | Competent operator required |
| Transport | Delivery or approved customer transport | Delivery or approved customer transport |
The Verdict
If your job involves digging holes, trenches or footings — hire the mini excavator. If you're moving, loading or spreading material on the surface — hire the skid steer. For full site prep (dig AND move), hire both or ask about our excavator + skid steer combination package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a mini excavator do everything a skid steer can?
No. A mini excavator excels at digging below ground level — trenches, footings, stumps. A skid steer is better at surface work — moving piles, loading trucks, levelling ground. They complement each other rather than replace each other.
Which is cheaper to hire?
The 1.7T Kubota U17-3 is $250/day and the Bobcat S70 skid steer is $275/day. Delivery is extra and calculated from your delivery address. Customer pickup is only available where the transport setup is approved; Stanford Hire plant trailers are not hired separately.
Can I hire both together?
Yes — many landscapers hire both for site prep. Dig with the excavator, then use the skid steer to move the spoil and level the site. Ask the site assistant, then send a booking enquiry for a combination rate.
Other Comparisons
Still not sure which to hire?
Describe the job and narrowest access width to the Stanford Hire Assistant for an instant recommendation.