Which brand of large excavator is best to buy? Comparison and purchasing guide of popular brands in 2023
With the rapid development of infrastructure, mining and other industries, the market demand for large excavators, as core engineering machinery, continues to grow. This article combines hot topics and industry data across the Internet in the past 10 days to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of mainstream brands and provide structured purchasing suggestions.
1. Ranking of popular big dig brands across the Internet in 2023

| Ranking | brand | Search popularity | Main advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Caterpillar | ★★★★★ | Powerful and durable |
| 2 | Komatsu | ★★★★☆ | Low fuel consumption and intelligent |
| 3 | Sany Heavy Industry | ★★★★ | High cost performance, domestically produced leader |
| 4 | Volvo | ★★★☆ | Environmentally friendly and comfortable |
| 5 | XCMG | ★★★ | Perfect after-sales service |
2. Horizontal comparison of core parameters (models above 30 tons)
| Brand/Model | Engine power | Capacity range | Fuel consumption (L/h) | Price range (10,000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caterpillar 330 | 250kW | 1.5-2.2m³ | 32-38 | 180-220 |
| Komatsu PC360 | 235kW | 1.4-2.0m³ | 28-34 | 160-190 |
| SANY SY365 | 242kW | 1.6-2.3m³ | 30-36 | 120-150 |
| Volvo EC380 | 228kW | 1.5-2.1m³ | 26-32 | 170-200 |
3. Analysis of key factors in purchasing
1. Adaptability to work scenarios
Caterpillar and Sany Heavy Industry are the first choices for mining operations; Volvo and Komatsu are recommended for municipal projects; thickened chassis configuration is recommended for long-term heavy-load conditions.
2. Comprehensive usage cost
The purchase cost of domestic models is 30%-40% lower, but the residual value rate of imported brands is generally 15%-20% higher. According to data from a second-hand platform, after 5 years of use:
- Caterpillar’s value retention rate is 68%
- Sany Heavy Industry's value retention rate is 52%
3. Intelligent trend
Newly launched models in 2023 are generally equipped with:
- Unmanned driving system (Komatsu’s latest model supports 5G remote control)
- Fuel consumption management system (Volvo can optimize operating modes in real time)
- Pre-maintenance reminder function (Caterpillar intelligent diagnostic system)
4. Real user feedback
| brand | Positive points | Bad review points |
|---|---|---|
| Caterpillar | Low failure rate and excellent mining operation performance | Accessories are expensive |
| Sany Heavy Industry | Fast after-sales response and outstanding cost performance | Hydraulic system durability needs to be improved |
| Volvo | Industry-leading driving comfort | Rigorous requirements for oil products |
5. Purchase suggestions
1.Sufficient budget: Priority will be given to international brands such as Caterpillar and Komatsu, which have lower comprehensive costs for long-term use.
2.Cost performance requirements: Domestic high-end models such as Sany and XCMG are ideal choices
3.Special working conditions: It is recommended to choose Volvo heating system in extremely cold areas, and in humid environments, consider anti-rust reinforced models.
According to the latest data from the China Construction Machinery Association, Dacha sales increased by 12% year-on-year from January to July 2023, and its market share of Chinese brands exceeded 60% for the first time. It is recommended to inspect the equipment on site and test the machine before purchasing, and pay attention to the manufacturer's trade-in and other promotional policies.
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