Mini Excavator comparison
Kubota U35 vs. Bobcat E35
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Quick answer
The Kubota U35 and Bobcat E35 are both 3.5-ton-class compact excavators with similar power (~24.8 hp). The key difference is tail swing: the U35 is a tight/zero-tail-swing design built for working close to walls and obstacles, while the E35 is offered with arm options that extend reach and depth. Both are families spanning generations, so confirm the exact model year and configuration.
Key differences at a glance
- Both are 3.5-ton-class machines with comparable engine power (~24.8 hp)
- The U35 is a tight/zero-tail-swing design for confined work against walls and obstacles
- The E35's headline advantage is arm options — long and extendable arms add reach and depth
- Both names cover multiple generations; the figures shown reflect commonly published specs (U35-4 for the Kubota)
- Choice often comes down to tail swing vs. reach, plus dealer preference and used condition
Specification comparison
| Spec | Kubota U35 | Bobcat E35 |
|---|---|---|
| Machine type | Compact excavator, tight/zero tail swing (3.5-ton) | Compact excavator (3.5-ton class) |
| Engine power | ~24.8 hp gross / 23.9 hp net (U35-4) | Commonly 24.8 hp (~33 hp option on some configs)Very close; confirm the exact engine and generation on the specific unit. |
| Maximum digging depth | ~9 ft 9 in (3,010 mm) (U35-4) | ~121.2 in std / 133 in long / 153.2 in extendable armThe E35 can out-reach the U35 when fitted with a long or extendable arm. |
| Operating weight | ~3,690 kg (canopy) / 3,830 kg (cab) (U35-4) | ~7,659 lb (std arm)Both vary by configuration; ~3,690 kg is about 8,135 lb. |
| Tail swing | Tight / zero tail swing | Conventional (confirm configuration)The U35's tail swing is its main advantage for tight sites. |
Figures are the verified specifications from each model's page and reflect commonly published generations (U35-4 for the Kubota). Both are families across generations — confirm the exact model year and configuration on the specific unit.
Choose the Kubota U35 if
- You work tight against walls, fences, and obstacles
- Zero/near-zero tail swing reduces the risk of clipping surroundings
- You value Kubota's excavator reputation and dealer support
Choose the Bobcat E35 if
- You want the option of a long or extendable arm for extra reach and depth
- You prefer the Bobcat dealer and attachment network
- Your sites are open enough that conventional tail swing is not a problem
What both machines share
- Both are popular, well-supported 3.5-ton machines with large used markets
- Inspect undercarriage, hydraulics, and pins/bushings, and confirm auxiliary hydraulics for attachments
- Because both names span generations, match generation-for-generation when comparing prices
The verdict
Pick the U35 when tight-quarters tail swing is the priority, and the E35 when arm-driven reach and Bobcat support matter more. On power they are effectively even, so condition, configuration, and price should drive the final decision.
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