Top medium excavators
Discover the top medium excavators in 2025. Ranked by brand and model, evaluated on performance, reliability, and popularity from leading global manufacturers.
The Cat 320 brings serious power and smart tech into a 22.6 t (49,800 lb) package. It digs deep, hauls heavy, and keeps operators fresh with a comfort-oriented cab and factory-grade assist systems.
- 172 kW (230 hp) C4.4 power in a 22.6 t frame
- 1.19 m³ bucket soaks up more material per swing
- Cat Grade 2D/Assist and payload onboard
- Ground-level maintenance and long filter life
Overview
The Cat 320 is a 22.6 t (49,800 lb) next-gen excavator powered by a 128.5 kW (172 hp) Cat C4.4 engine. It delivers up to 6.72 m (22 ft) digging depth and 1.19 m³ (1.56 yd³) bucket capacity.
Full factory tech (Grade Assist, payload, UI) reduces setup and rework.
Built-in tech requires operator training to get full value.
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 320 GC, 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.
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AED 950,000Starting from
AED 450,000The Komatsu PC300–8M0 balances power and efficiency in a 31–32 t frame. With a 1.8 m³ bucket and smart hydraulics, it thrives on big jobs while keeping running costs manageable.
- 194 kW (260 hp) SAA6D114E-3 engine in a 31–32 t chassis
- Bucket capacity up to 1.8 m³, reach ~10.25 m
- HydrauMind twin-pump hydraulics, Economy mode, KOMTRAX onboard
- Quiet, low-vibration cab with auto-idle
Overview
The PC300–8M0 weighs 31,100–32,000 kg, powered by a 194 kW (260 hp) SAA6D114E-3 Tier 3 engine. Bucket ranges from 0.52 to 1.8 m³, dig depth ~6.54 m, horizontal reach ~10.25 m.
Efficient hydraulics and economy mode lower fuel use.
Tech-rich features need skilled use to shine.
Performance & Efficiency
HydrauMind and economy mode dial in fuel savings; KOMTRAX keeps tabs on uptime. Comfortable cab and auto-idle reduce operator fatigue.
In Comparison
Stronger and more capable than smaller mid-size excavators; easier on cost and mobility compared to full-size rigs.
Verdict
Smart, strong, and suited for high-output mid-size jobs. Not for ultra-tight access work or simplicity-only operations.
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AED 900,000Starting from
AED 450,000The John Deere 350 packs Tier 4 Final power and reach into a mid-size 36.7 t chassis. With deep reach and smart systems, it’s built for productivity at scale.
- 202 kW (271 hp) in a 36.7 t frame
- Dig depth 8.18 m (26 ft 10 in)
- Grade Guidance and SmartGrade ready
- Powerwise system and optional auto-idle save fuel
Overview
The 350 P-Tier is a mid-size excavator weighing ~36 734 kg (80,985 lb), delivering 202 kW (271 hp), and capable of digging up to 8.18 m deep. It offers enhanced visibility options and integrated technologies.
Technology-ready with SmartGrade and camera lighting improve accuracy and safety.
Tech features require operator training to unlock full benefits.
Performance & Efficiency
Powerwise engine-hydraulic control and auto-idle improve fuel economy. Optional cameras and lighting cut operator fatigue and boost safety.
In Comparison
Oversized compared to smaller mid-excavators for more reach and control; more agile and efficient than full-sized models.
Verdict
Great for high-production mid-size work with modern controls. Avoid if your work is ultra-compact or simplicity is the mission.
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AED 1,000,000Starting from
AED 750,000The Cat 336 delivers big power in a 36.6 t (80,600 lb) frame, with a roomy 2.27 m³ bucket and factory automation that cuts rework and boosts productivity.
- 223 kW (300 hp) C7.1 engine in a 36.6 t frame
- 2.27 m³ bucket swallows more per cycle
- Cat Grade with Assist, Payload, and VisionLink included
- Grouped service points and long maintenance intervals
Overview
The Cat 336 is a 36.6 t (80,600 lb) Tier 4 Final excavator powered by a 223 kW (300 hp) Cat C7.1 TTA engine. It features a 2.27 m³ bucket, 8.2 m (26.9 ft) digging depth, and up to 11.73 m (38.5 ft) reach.
Factory tech (Grade Assist, Payload, VisionLink) cuts grade time and error.
Packed with tech, so operator training matters.
Performance & Efficiency
With 560 L/min hydraulic flow and high dig force (~210 kN), it balances power with precision. Fuel consumption drops up to 15%, maintenance costs fall due to extended service intervals.
In Comparison
Compared to the 336 GC, you get more hydraulic power and tech at a modest weight bump. Against the 340, it's easier to transport and still accurate.
Verdict
The Cat 336 delivers utility, accuracy, and productivity in one package. Ideal for large excavation and grading tasks. Skip it for ultra-tight access sites or if you need stripped-down simplicity.
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AED 1,250,000Starting from
AED 700,000Related machinery rankings
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