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.

Komatsu PC400 Large excavators
2007-2014

Generation-Komatsu PC400 Large excavators-cover

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.

Pros Bulky reach and bucket capacity boost throughput.
Smart hydraulics and economy features save fuel and time.

Cons Roughly 47 t of machine; needs solid ground and smart hauling.
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.

41,200 kg Operating weight

10,200 m Max dump height

1.9 m3 Bucket capacity

7,640 mm Max digging depth

214.02 kw Gross power

See full spec & review

Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 900,000

Starting from

AED 500,000

See owner ratings

Cat 349 Large excavators
2017-2019

Generation-Cat 349 Large excavators-cover

The 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.

Pros Large bucket and depth boost dig output.
Fully integrated Cat tech increases precision and reduces mistakes.

Cons Nearly 49 t of mass demands solid ground and careful transport prep.
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.

45,200 kg Operating weight

10,340 m Max dump height

7.5 m Boom length

1.9 m3 Bucket capacity

7,990 mm Max digging depth

214.02 kw Gross power

See full spec & review

Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 1,200,000

Starting from

AED 600,000

See owner ratings

Large excavators. For sale.

Ended

LEX-004

2018 Cat 349D2L large excavator

Used

China

6,503 hrs

Notify me when available

Komatsu PC450 Large excavators
2007-2013

Generation-Komatsu PC450 Large excavators-cover

The 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.

Pros Large bucket and reach reduce cycles.
ECO mode and KOMTRAX keep fuel and maintenance in check.

Cons Roughly 45 t—needs proper ground conditions and transport setup.
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.

45,200 kg Operating weight

7,990 mm Max digging depth

10,340 mm Max dump height

13,270 mm Max digging reach

1.9 cu m Bucket capacity

214.02 kw Gross power

See full spec & review

Makana rating

Owner rating

| 3

Market average

AED 700,000

Starting from

AED 350,000

See owner ratings

Related machinery rankings

Top CAT excavators Top medium excavators Best mini excavators for tight space 10 Best excavators 2025