Kubota U17 vs John Deere 17g: Who Will Rise to the Occasion
8/30/2025
At Oregon Equipment Sales, we’re comparing two popular compact excavators: the Kubota U17 and the John Deere 17G. These mini excavators excel in tight spaces and are favorites for people in industries like landscaping, utility work, and construction sites, where maneuverability matters most. Which excavator has the better overall value, though? Kubota U17 vs. John Deere 17G: Who will rise to the occasion?
The Kubota U17 has a 16.1-horsepower Kubota-built engine, and the John Deere 17G runs on a 14.5-horsepower Yanmar engine. On paper, Kubota offers more power and torque, meaning stronger performance in digging, lifting, and running attachments.
The U17's hydraulic pump capacity also favors it, with 11.9 gallons per minute compared to Deere’s 7.9 gallons per minute. That means faster cycle times and greater efficiency when switching between bucket, arm, and swing functions.
The Kubota U17 delivers a digging depth of seven feet and seven inches and a maximum reach of twelve feet and seven inches. The John Deere 17G offers a similar seven feet two inches digging depth and a maximum reach of twelve feet six inches. The numbers are close, but Kubota gives you more digging depth, which can make a difference in trenching jobs.
These compact excavators really stand out in terms of bucket breakout force. The Kubota U17 offers a bucket breakout force of 3,417 pounds. The John Deere 17G comes in at 3,597 pounds, taking the narrow lead here.
However, Kubota has an impressive lifting capacity, balance, and stability thanks to their zero-tail-swing design and counterbalancing technology. This makes it safer and more stable when working close to buildings or lifting at the side.
Both excavators have easy-access service points. The U17 features wide-opening engine covers, under-deck hydraulics access, and protected hoses. Deere offers hinged service doors, extended service intervals, and JDLink remote diagnostics. JDLink connectivity is a strong advantage for contractors running multiple Deere machines. Kubota keeps things simple and cost-effective for straightforward maintenance and lower repair costs.
While the Kubota U17 and John Deere 17G are strong contenders in the compact excavator market, the Kubota U17 rises to the occasion with more horsepower, stronger hydraulics, a deeper dig, and an actual zero-tail-swing design. For contractors, landscapers, and property owners, the U17 is an exceptional investment overall!
At Oregon Equipment Sales, we sell the complete lineup of Kubota excavators, including the U17! You’re backed by expert service and support when you shop with us. Give us a call, fill out our Get a Quote form below, or visit us in Oregon to see the U17 in all its glory and discover why Kubota is the brand trusted to do more.