Backhoes vs. Excavators

With so many different machines on the market, choosing the right kind of equipment requires a little research. Any heavy equipment is a major purchase, and doing some homework can help you avoid a costly mistake. Are you thinking about investing in a backhoe or excavator? These machines seem similar at first glance, but they have some key differences. The following guide from Magnum Power compares the advantages of backhoes and excavators.

If you’re looking for more advice, don’t hesitate to ask the qualified staff at Magnum Power. We are always happy to help you track down the perfect piece of equipment for your needs and budget. You can check out a great selection of backhoes and excavators at our dealership in Lawson, MO.

What is a Backhoe?

A backhoe is a multipurpose machine built around a standard tractor base that uses a digging bucket attached to the end of a jointed two-part arm. The opposite side of the backhoe often has a front loader attachment, in which case it is termed a “backhoe loader.” Backhoe loaders are equipped with a seat that can swivel back and forth so the operator can face whichever side of the machine is in use.

There are many attachments available for backhoes, including drills, hammers, rippers, rakes, breakers, and more. The front loader attachment can also be replaced with brooms, plows, and forklifts. Backhoes can even serve as cranes, by looping straps over the bucket and around the object that needs to be lifted. Backhoes can also be driven on roads.

What is an Excavator?

An excavator is a purpose-built digging machine with a powerful digging arm designed for heavy lifting. Most excavators also have a dozer blade attached opposite the digging arm. They can have either tracks of wheels. Unlike backhoes, the entire cab of an excavator can rotate 360 degrees atop its undercarriage, giving excavators the nickname 360.

Like backhoes, excavators can be used with a range of attachments for different applications. These include heavy-duty drilling, demolition, and brush-cutting. 

What Equipment Do I Need?

Let’s take a look at the most important variables to consider when deciding between an excavator and a backhoe.

• Size: Size is the main difference between these two pieces of equipment, with excavators being the larger and heavier option. The size of your equipment should match the scope of your project. If sheer muscle is your top priority, go big with an excavator.
• Mobility: Being smaller and more agile, the backhoe can navigate more easily around job sites, and also travel on roads up to 25mph. When maneuvering in a tight space or traversing long distances, you may prefer the backhoe.
• Versatility: Both machines offer a number of attachments, but the backhoe has a much larger selection, making it the more adaptable of the two. The backhoe’s versatility will come in handy if your project involves a lot of different tasks.

Generally speaking, for demolition, mining, driving piles, and other large-scale industrial projects, an excavator will serve you better. For farming applications, snow removal, loading, and medium-scale construction, the backhoe may be the more practical choice.

We hope you found this guide helpful! Ready to make your decision? The next step is a visit to Magnum Power, your trusted equipment dealer in Lawson, MO. We welcome customers from all over Clay County and the Kansas City area.