Top medium excavators

Overview

The Hitachi ZX225 (2003–2026) is a 24-ton class excavator designed for heavy construction and excavation work. It delivers 122 kilowatt engine power, a 0.8 cu m bucket, and a 6.62 m digging depth, providing strong performance for demanding job sites.

Expert rating: 5 stars

Performance & Efficiency

The 122 kilowatt engine and 613 L/min hydraulic system deliver strong performance and smooth operation for heavy excavation tasks.

In Comparison

Cat 323: Premium excavator with strong resale value.
Komatsu PC210: Balanced performance and smooth operation.
Hitachi ZX225: Known for hydraulic smoothness and digging power.

Final Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Hitachi ZX225 delivers reliable performance within the AED 320,000–460,000 range.

Overview

The Komatsu PC350 is positioned as a high-production medium excavator, offering 193.9 kW of net power, strong breakout forces, and a hydraulic system tuned for continuous heavy-duty cycles.

Efficiency

With 535 lpm hydraulic flow and a high-pressure system, the PC350 maintains smooth, fast cycles even under sustained load.

In Cabin

The cab focuses on comfort, visibility, and control layout, supporting long shifts with reduced operator fatigue.

In Comparison

Compared to the Cat 336, the PC350 emphasizes smooth hydraulics and efficiency. Against the Kobelco SK350, it favors mechanical simplicity and durability.

Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Komatsu PC350 is a reliable choice for contractors prioritizing productivity and uptime.

Overview

The Doosan DX225 (2007–2023) is a 22-ton class excavator designed for heavy construction and earthmoving operations. It features a 121 kilowatt engine, a 1.49 cu m bucket, and a 6.58 m digging depth, delivering strong performance for demanding job sites.

Expert rating: 5 stars

Performance & Efficiency

The 121 kilowatt engine and 413 L/min hydraulic system provide strong performance and efficient operation for excavation and loading tasks.

In Comparison

Cat 323: Premium excavator with strong resale value.
Hyundai R215: Similar class machine with competitive pricing.
Doosan DX225: Balanced excavator with strong hydraulic output.

Final Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Doosan DX225 delivers strong performance within the AED 320,000–475,000 range.

Overview

The Kobelco SK380 (SK380XDLC-10) (2022–2026) is a 38.5-ton medium excavator aimed at contractors, quarry operators, and earthmoving fleets that require high digging forces, long reach, and strong loading capacity. Its 209 kilowatt Hino J08E-UN engine, 1.9 cubic meter bucket, 7.56 m digging depth, and 11.26 m reach make it suitable for bulk excavation, quarry support, deep foundations, truck loading, demolition preparation, and major site-development work.

Expert rating: 5 stars

Performance & Efficiency

The 209 kilowatt Hino J08E-UN engine supports a hydraulic pump flow of 609 liters per minute at a relief pressure of 343 bar. Its 252 kN bucket digging force and 165 kN arm crowding force provide strong breakout performance in compacted material and heavy excavation, while the 331 kN drawbar pull and 35-degree gradeability support movement across difficult ground. The 10 rpm swing speed helps maintain steady truck-loading and excavation cycles despite the machine’s heavy operating weight.

In Comparison

Hyundai R220: A lighter and easier-to-transport excavator for general construction, but it offers less bucket capacity, hydraulic flow, digging force, and working reach.
Kobelco SK200: A smaller and lower-cost option for routine excavation, but its 0.8 cubic meter bucket and lower engine output limit production on major projects.
Kobelco SK380: Provides a 38.5-ton platform, 252 kN bucket force, 609-liter-per-minute hydraulic flow, and a 1.9 cubic meter bucket for heavy production work.

Final Verdict

Rated 5 stars, the Kobelco SK380 is a high-output medium excavator within the AED 490,000–700,000 range. Its powerful hydraulic system, large bucket, long digging reach, and strong traction make it a practical choice for quarries, bulk excavation, deep foundations, and major earthmoving projects where production matters more than transport simplicity.

Overview

The 2018-2025 Cat 323 is a 22.6-ton medium excavator powered by a 144 hp Cat C7.1 engine. Designed for high-production applications, it offers robust performance in tasks such as earthmoving, trenching, and material handling. With an operating weight of 22,600 kg and a 1.2 m³ severe-duty bucket, the 323 delivers efficient digging and loading capabilities.

Pros The larger 1.2 m³ bucket increases material moved per cycle, improving overall job site efficiency. The eight-roller undercarriage and reinforced structures provide stability and longevity in demanding conditions.

Cons Lacks some of the advanced telematics and automation features found in newer models. While functional, the cab may not offer the same level of comfort and noise reduction as higher-tier excavators.

What's new

The 2018-2025 model introduced several enhancements aimed at improving performance and operator experience. The excavator features a high-efficiency hydraulic system with tandem pumps delivering a maximum flow of 429 L/min, providing improved digging and lifting capabilities.

The machine's fuel system includes a two-stage filtration system with an anti-rust fuel tank, ensuring reliable performance and reduced maintenance needs.

Additionally, the 323 comes equipped with a heavy-duty, eight-roller undercarriage and reinforced structures, enhancing durability and stability during operation.

Efficiency and performance

In day-to-day operations, the Cat 323 demonstrates robust performance. Its digging depth reaches up to 6.3 meters, and the maximum reach at ground level is 9.47 meters, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.

The machine's fuel efficiency stands out, with operators reporting substantial savings over time. However, attention should be given to the cab comfort, as it may not match the standards of newer models.

Routine maintenance is facilitated by the machine's design, featuring easy access to service points, which helps minimize downtime and maintain consistent performance.

In-cabin and interior

The operator station of the 323 is designed with functionality in mind. The cab includes a high-resolution 203 mm (8") LCD touchscreen monitor, mechanically adjustable seat with headrest, and automatic bi-level air conditioner.

While the cab provides essential features for operation, it may lack some of the advanced comfort and noise reduction technologies found in newer models.

Safety features

Safety is a key consideration in the design of the 323. The machine is equipped with a fully enclosed ROPS and FOPS cab, protecting operators from rollovers and falling objects. The cab's design enhances visibility, reducing blind spots and contributing to safer operation.

The machine's maintenance-friendly design minimizes the risk of accidents during routine checks, and the inclusion of a backup alarm and interlock system further enhances operator safety.

In comparison

Compared to previous models, the 2018-2025 323 offers improved hydraulic performance and operator functionality. When compared to competitors like the Komatsu PC210, some users have noted that the 323's fuel efficiency and durability provide a competitive edge in terms of performance and operator satisfaction.

Verdict

The 2018-2025 Cat 323 Medium Excavator earns a solid 5-star rating for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and operator-focused design. While attention to cab comfort and advanced technology features is necessary, the machine's overall performance and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable asset for various applications.

Overview

The Cat 320 is a 21.2 t (46,700 lb) next-gen excavator powered by a 110.5 kW (150 hp) Cat C7.1 engine. It delivers up to 6.72 m (22 ft) digging depth and 1.4 m³ (1.8 yd³) bucket capacity.

Performance & Efficiency

Main hydraulics at 429 L/min and up to 5,500 psi pressure deliver high dig force and control. Fuel use is cut by ~25%, and maintenance cost drops up to ~15% versus older models.

In Comparison

Compared to the PC300, you gain full tech and more power for not much more weight. Against the 323, it’s lighter, easier to move, and more cost-effective.

Verdict

The Cat 320 hits the utility-productivity-tech sweet spot. Perfect for high-production digging and grading. Skip it if your work is ultra-compact or you want the simplest rig.