Top 10 large excavators
Move bigger, stronger, and more efficiently with our selection of the world’s leading large excavators. Each machine is chosen for exceptional power, durability, and productivity — ideal for heavy earthmoving, mining, quarrying, and large-scale construction projects.
The Komatsu PC400-8 delivers heavy-duty digging and smart efficiency in a 47 t class machine. Large capacity and smart hydraulics get the job done faster.
- 257 kW (345 hp) engine in a 47.1 t frame
- 2.87 m³ bucket, up to 9.26 m dig depth, 13.18 m reach
- HydrauMind hydraulics, economy mode, KOMTRAX onboard
- Transport size ~11.9 m length, 3.64 m width, 3.27 m height
Overview
The PC400-8 (2007–2014) weighs ~47.1 t and uses a 257 kW SAA6D125E-5 engine. It digs to 9.255 m and reaches 13.18 m, with transport dimensions of ~11.905 m × 3.64 m × 3.265 m.
Smart hydraulics and economy features save fuel and time.
Tech-heavy setup may require skilled operators.
Performance & Efficiency
Hydraulic and engine tuning with smart features help minimize fuel burn while KOMTRAX keeps you ahead of maintenance.
In Comparison
Punches above midsize excavators while staying more maneuverable and affordable than full-range giants.
Verdict
Great choice for heavy-duty, high-output work. Go elsewhere if your site is narrow or needs bare-bones simplicity.
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Market average
AED 900,000Starting from
AED 500,000The Cat 349F L combines heavy-duty performance with precision tech in a 48.6 t (107,100 lb) chassis. It handles serious material with fewer swings and smarter control.
- 311 kW (417 hp) C13 engine in a 48.6 t frame
- 3.1 m³ bucket capacity—fewer cycles per load
- Cat Grade, Payload, Lift Assist, E-Fence, and Product Link standard
- Up to 10 % better fuel efficiency, 15 % lower maintenance cost
Overview
The 349F L is a large crawler excavator weighing 48.6 t (107,145 lb), equipped with a 311 kW (417 hp) Cat C13 ACERT engine. It achieves a dig depth of 7.66 m and horizontal reach of about 11.73 m. Bucket capacity is 3.1 m³, tear-out force 267 kN, and transport size is roughly 12.5 m long, 3.34 m wide, and about 3.71 m high.
Fully integrated Cat tech increases precision and reduces mistakes.
Advanced tech setup requires operator training to unlock full value.
Performance & Efficiency
Smart Mode aligns hydraulic and engine output to load needs, enhancing fuel efficiency by up to 10 %. Maintenance is more economical—15 % lower—thanks to extended service intervals and accessible layout.
In Comparison
Compared to older 349s, the F L adds power and smart tools without much extra weight. Compared to newer Cat excavators, it keeps things simpler while staying production-ready.
Verdict
Perfect for high-volume digging and heavy work. Powerful, smart, and built to last. Not ideal for narrow, lightweight tasks or minimal tech systems.
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Market average
AED 1,200,000Starting from
AED 600,000The Komatsu PC450 LC-8 delivers high-capacity digging and intelligent efficiency in a 45 t class chassis. Big bucket, deep reach, smart hydraulics flag it as a high-production machine you can actually manage.
- 257 kW (345 hp) engine in a roughly 45 t body
- Bucket up to 2.8 m³, ~9.26 m dig depth, ~13.37 m reach
- ECO and multiple operating modes with KOMTRAX support
- Transport dimensions ~12 m × 3.5 m × 3.25 m
Overview
Built 2007–2013, the PC450 LC-8 brings a net 257 kW (345 hp) SAA6D114E-5 engine into a 45 t chassis. It offers ~9.26 m dig depth and ~13.37 m reach, with manageable transport dimensions for a large excavator.
ECO mode and KOMTRAX keep fuel and maintenance in check.
Advanced features need operator know-how to exploit.
Performance & Efficiency
ECO and operating modes paired with KOMTRAX monitoring help optimize fuel and uptime. Smart hydraulics deliver consistent productivity.
In Comparison
Stronger and more capable than midsize units, but more agile and cost-effective than full-range mega excavators.
Verdict
For heavy-duty, high-production work, this is a strong pick. Not ideal for compact urban jobs or minimalist fleets.
Makana rating
Owner rating
Market average
AED 700,000Starting from
AED 350,000Related machinery rankings
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