Excavator vs. Backhoe: Which Is Right for Your Summer Project?

Summer is an important season for outdoor renovations and excavation work.  

Whether you’re digging a pool, prepping a new driveway or landscaping a large yard, choosing the right machinery is critical. Let’s break down the differences between excavators and backhoes, explore their strengths and weaknesses, and help you determine which one fits your summer project best.  

Understanding the Difference Between Excavators and Backhoes 

When planning outdoor work, ensuring that you have the right tools for the job is important. That’s why understanding the differences between equipment is key.  

Size & Mobility 

While both machines come in a range of sizes, they are designed for different types of work. 

• Mini Excavators typically offer more maneuverability for projects with limited space and where disruption needs to be minimal. Larger excavators are heavier, tracked, and built for heavy-duty jobs such as deep foundation digging, demolition and mining.  

• Backhoes (or backhoe loaders) are tractor-based, wheel-mounted machines that tend to be bulkier with a loader in front and a digging arm in the back. Their road-driving ability makes them ideal for modest-sized jobs that span multiple sites.   

Rotation & Reach 

You’ll want to evaluate the jobsite to make sure the equipment you rent can meet your needs. 

• Excavators deliver true 360-degree rotation, meaning they can dig, lift, swing and place materials efficiently without repositioning.  

• Backhoes offer 180-degree swings, enough for most backyard or utility jobs, but limited when full rotation is needed.   

Versatility & Attachments 

Both machines support attachments like hammers, augers and grapples. However, there are differences in the functionality of available attachments. 

• Backhoes offer front loader and rear-digging functions, and support basic attachments like plows and sweepers. Beyond their main tools, they have fewer attachment options and are less precise than mini excavators.  

• Excavators, especially mini and standard excavators, offer greater versatility and precision. They can use specialized tools like brush cutters, pile drivers, crushers and zero-swing models. They are ideal for detailed and high-volume work. 

Which Machine Fits Your Summer Project? 

Both backhoes and excavators will work for most outdoor and excavation projects, but using the right equipment can greatly increase your jobsite efficiency. 

Excavator rental costs are higher but are justifiable for specialized digging, demolition or big earthmoving jobs. They also offer greater versatility and precision. Backhoe rental makes sense for commercial summer projects requiring multiple moderate tasks.  

The capabilities and design of the equipment should also be taken into account as you plan your project. Consider this: 

• An excavator is designed for heavy-duty digging, depth, demolition or uneven terrain. It’s essential for deep foundations, large-scale grading or demolition. Standard excavators are best for foundations, mid-sized demolition or bulk grading.  

• Mini excavators fit tight spaces like decks, utility trenches or around pools. They serve well for confined backyard spaces, while larger excavators tackle big industrial jobs.  

• Large excavators are commonly used on industrial projects like commercial site prep or mining.  

• Backhoe loaders come in varied sizes, but their wheel-drive makes them nimbler and convenient for short-distance transport.  

• A backhoe is a jack-of-all-trades machine that can dig, load, move materials and travel short distances without transport.   

Power Your Summer Projects with Leppo Rents 

When planning your summer project, the debate of excavator vs. backhoe hinges on capacity, versatility, cost and site specifics. If you have additional questions or want to review the scope and needs of your project with an expert, then contact Leppo Rents.  

Leppo Rents should be your first call for equipment rental. With Leppo, you have: 

• A wide selection of excavators as well as backhoes if you need them.  

• Optional services such as delivery, maintenance and other support services.  

• Competitive rental rates with a wide range of equipment and attachments available.  

• Expert guidance. We can help you choose the right equipment based on your project scale, site conditions and budget.  

The right equipment from Leppo Rents will save you both time and money, ensuring your project finishes on schedule.  

Ready to dig into your summer project? Contact Leppo Rents today.