Top 5 Compact Excavators for Construction Projects in 2025

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When it comes to construction projects, compact excavators have become indispensable tools for contractors.

Their versatility, power, and ability to work efficiently in tight spaces make them popular across various industries. As we enter 2025, manufacturers like CASE, Takeuchi, and Toro continue to push the boundaries of performance and innovation. If you’re looking for compact excavators that deliver exceptional functionality, here are five standout models worth considering.

CASE CX26C Mini Excavator
Luby Equipment Services
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Bought an Mini Ex and a Skid Steer from them. They have been great to deal with.
You guys have been top notch for me every time. I’ve been the maintenance director at 2 different facilities where I have used your services on our generators. This time a tech came out for again another generator. The techs name was Eric, he did an awesome job and was great to talk with. I will absolutely request him for service from now on. The personal factor is huge for me while doing business since my industry is long term care. Thanks for great service as always!
Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review! I’ll let Eric know.
Excellent resource to service all CASE and Takeuchi machines in the metro area. They can get anything. The staff is always helpful and very knowledgeable.
In and out
Excellent dealership with strong core values!
Purchased a Intimidator tree puller from them. Good price and friendly service team.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5 star review!
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 4 star review. We would love to hear how we can improve to a 5 star! If there is anything that you need please feel free to reach out to one of our six construction locations. Thank you again for taking the time to give us a rating.
Roger was a great salesman to deal with.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 5 star review! Roger focuses each and every day to give a world class customer experience. We hope to see you soon. Thank you again for taking the time to give us a review.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 5 star review. We strive to deliver a world class customer experience every time we see you. Thank you again and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Jenny is the best!! She will take care of you!
Response from the owner: Pam, thank you! We are grateful for your 5 star review. Jenny does an excellent job and is very focused at providing a world class customer experience. Thank you again and we look forward to working with you in the future.
My experience was great.. I spoke with Jenny and she was more than a huge help. Very professional, friendly and knowledgeable.
Response from the owner: Thank you, Syretha! We are very grateful for your 5 star review. Jenny does an excellent job and is very focused at providing a world class customer experience. Thank you again and we look forward to working with you in the future.
Good guys good equipment
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 5 star review. We appreciate your business and strive to deliver the best equipment and service in the industry. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 5 star rating. We strive to deliver a world class customer experience each and every day. Thank you again and we hope to see you soon.
My husband rented equipment and worked with Josh. He was very respectful and new what he was talking about to help with all my husband's needs and questions. Very pleased and will be using Luby again in the future!
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for your review and rating. We appreciate your business Jenn and we look forward to seeing you soon. Thank you again and we hope you have a great day!
Great place for equipment and mechanics!
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for your review and rating. We appreciate your business and look forward to seeing you soon. Thank you again and we hope you have a great day!
This is a great piece of equipment. Kevin Peeler is very knowledgeable and made the process easy. We actually didn’t meet until he drove on the job site with my Takeuchi TL6. He earned my confidence over the phone.Mnnnmm
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for your review and rating. Luby Equipment and Kevin are focused on delivering a seamless customer experience on every sale. Thank you again and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Jenny was the best, answered questions on several calls that other dealers could not. I live in KC and shopped auctions, dealers nationwide, Facebook market place. Got my best deal on my TL12V2 machine from Luby with extended warranty. Drove to Fenton and picked up machine. Machine was as described and ready to go as promised. Jenny’s friendliness and listening to my wants sold me! Her boss should give her a raise thanks again!
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the review and 5 star rating. Our goal is to deliver a world class customer experience on every transaction. We are thankful for your business and look forward to seeing you soon.
This was my first experience with Luby Equipment. Jenny Swafford was my sales person. She promptly made a deal with me working out the transportation and all the details. She kept me in the loop every step of the way and gave me many detailed pictures of the piece of equipment. I do many deals in my line of work and I can tell you she is among the best. I would do business again and hope I can. My experience with Lubys has been the best. I could not be happier. Good job Jenny I wish there were more like you doing business would be a much funner experience. Mike.
Response from the owner: Thank you Mike for your review and rating. Our goal is to deliver a world class customer experience each and every day. We appreciate your business and look forward to doing more with you in the future. Thank you again for the kind words and hope you have a wonderful day!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for giving us a 5 star rating. We strive each and every day to deliver world class customer service. We appreciate your business and look forward to seeing you soon.
I recently purchased 2 machines from Luby Equipment and worked with Jenny Swafford. She was fantastic to work with and I am very pleased with the equipment and how easy Luby was to work with. Highly recommend them to anyone looking to purchase equipment.
Response from the owner: Thank you Steve for giving us a 5 star rating. We are very appreciative of your business and look forward to working with you again.
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the 5 star review Michael! We strive to reach our customer's highest expectations!
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for rating us. We strive to deliver the best customer experience in the industry. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to improve.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much giving us a 5 star rating. We are grateful for your business and look forward to seeing you soon.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for the 5 star rating! Our goal is to give each and every customer the best customer experience in the industry. We look forward to seeing you soon and hope you have a great week. Thank you again for your continued business.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for rating us. We strive for a 5 star rating from our customers so please let us know how we can improve your experience. Thank you again for rating us and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Response from the owner: Thank you Mike for giving us a 4 star review. Our goal is ensure our customers are happy with the services they receive each and every time they do business with us. If there is anything in particular that we can do better, please let us know. Thank you again for your review and we look forward to doing business with you soon.
Great service and great staff
Response from the owner: Carlos,Thank you very much for rating us! We appreciate it and look forward to doing business with you in the future. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to improve.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for rating us. We strive to be the best construction equipment dealer in the area.
Response from the owner: Thank you very much for rating us! We look forward to doing business with you in the near future.
Pricey, but thay are willing to help you with parts and repair, fast if you need
Response from the owner: Thank you for your review Richard! We always appreciate your business!
Response from the owner: Thank you for the review! We appreciate your business!
Great rental store best prices on case A++
Response from the owner: Thank you for your review! We appreciate your business!
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1. CASE CX37C Compact Excavator

The CASE CX37C is a trusted name in the compact excavator market, known for its reliability and precision. This machine is designed to handle various tasks and offers versatility for landscaping, utility work, and small-scale construction projects.

Features:

  • Powerful Engine: The CX37C is powered by a fuel-efficient Tier 4 Final engine, offering optimal power without sacrificing compliance with emission standards.
  • Operator Comfort: The spacious cab is designed with an ergonomic layout, adjustable seating, and easy-to-use controls, reducing operator fatigue during long shifts.
  • Precision Performance: With a max dig depth of over 10 feet, it’s perfect for trenching and excavation in tight or confined areas.

Applications:

  • Ideal for urban construction, trenching for utilities, and landscaping projects.
  • Durable and compact enough to work in areas with limited access.

2. Takeuchi TB290 Compact Excavator

Takeuchi has long been a leader in compact equipment, and the TB290 exemplifies why. Balancing power, performance, and ease of use, this excavator is well-suited for heavy-duty applications while maintaining maneuverability.

Features:

  • Exceptional Reach and Digging Depth: With a dig depth exceeding 15 feet, the TB290 can handle more demanding excavation tasks.
  • Durability: Constructed with heavy-duty steel components, this model ensures longevity even in the harshest job site conditions.
  • Versatility: Equipped with multiple attachment options, including buckets, breakers, and augers, making it adaptable for numerous applications.

Applications:

  • Perfect for site preparation, foundation work, and road construction projects.
  • Its robust build makes it a dependable choice for challenging environments.

3. Toro Dingo TXL 2000 Compact Excavator

Known for their innovation in landscaping and light construction equipment, Toro offers a unique and powerful compact excavator with the Dingo TXL 2000. This model provides cutting-edge features, making it ideal for contractors who value versatility and efficiency.

Features:

  • Telescoping Arms: The TXL 2000 features extendable arms for improved reach and efficiency when digging or lifting materials.
  • Compact Design: Its zero-turn capability and small footprint allow it to operate effectively in confined spaces.
  • Ease of Use: With intuitive controls and advanced hydraulics, operators can efficiently execute precision movements.

Applications:

  • Ideal for landscaping, light utility work, and site clean-up.
  • Its small footprint and quiet operation make it perfect for urban job sites.

4. CASE CX26C Compact Excavator

The CASE CX26C is a versatile, efficient, compact excavator designed for contractors working in confined spaces. Its powerful performance and ease of use make it a popular choice for small- to medium-sized projects.

Features:

  • Compact Design: The CX26C’s small footprint makes it easy to work in tight spaces, making it ideal for urban and residential projects.
  • Performance Power: Powered by a fuel-efficient Tier 4 Final engine, it delivers impressive power for digging, trenching, and grading tasks.
  • Operator Comfort: Its roomy cab, ergonomic controls, and excellent visibility are designed to keep operators comfortable and productive all day long.

Applications:

  • Ideal for landscaping, utility work, and light construction tasks.
  • Its compact size and reliability make it perfect for contractors needing precision in confined job sites.

5. Takeuchi TB260 Compact Excavator

Compact yet powerful, the Takeuchi TB260 is a mid-sized excavator that delivers high performance without sacrificing efficiency. Built with precision and durability in mind, this excavator is a solid choice for contractors needing versatility.

Features:

  • Advanced Hydraulic System: The TB260 offers smooth and precise operation, even during complex maneuvers.
  • Operator-Friendly Cab: The spacious, climate-controlled cab has advanced controls for comfort and productivity.
  • Impressive Stability: The well-designed undercarriage ensures the TB260 remains stable during operation, even on uneven terrain.

Applications:

  • Suitable for landscaping, small-scale demolition, and utility installation.
  • Its fuel efficiency makes it a practical option for long-term use on larger projects.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Compact Excavator

When deciding which compact excavator is right for your project, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Project Requirements: Determine the type of tasks you’ll be performing most often, such as digging, grading, or demolition.
  • Job Site Conditions: Compact excavators are designed for versatility, but some models are better suited for confined spaces or rough terrain.
  • Attachment Compatibility: If you must perform multiple tasks, ensure your chosen model supports your required attachments.
  • Operator Comfort: Comfortable, easy-to-use equipment improves productivity and reduces fatigue over long workdays.
  • Maintenance and Support: Consider the availability of parts and service support in your area to minimize downtime.

Why Compact Excavators Are a Smart Choice in 2025

Contractors prefer compact excavators due to their versatility, lower operating costs, and ability to handle various tasks. Whether working on a landscaping project or a small-scale construction site, these machines deliver the performance you need to do the job efficiently.

Contact Us Today

Luby Equipment Services offers a wide range of new and used equipment from leading manufacturers like CASE, Takeuchi, and Toro. Our team is here to help you explore your options and find the perfect fit for your needs. We’re ready to assist if you’re interested in renting, buying, or learning more about the latest compact equipment.

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