Wheeled excavators: compare specs, models, and performance

The wheeled excavator holds a unique place among construction equipment options — unlike most earthmoving machines, it can function as a wholly independent working unit. It can pull a trailer of its own work tools and materials, roading between job sites, and, when outfitted with a tiltrotator, the capability is plentiful.

The wheeled excavator is ready to get to work transporting materials, earthmoving, loading trucks, clearing ditches, doing roadwork, and installing utilities. Turn the page for wheeled excavator buying tips from the experts.

Below is a comprehensive guide to wheeled excavators from leading manufacturers worldwide. Here, you'll find a list of models, specs, and detailed equipment specifications to help you compare options and make informed decisions.

1. Liebherr wheeled excavators

Standard features on Liebherr's wheeled excavators include powerful, fuel-efficient engines; advanced hydraulic systems for precise control; and robust undercarriages designed for stability on any terrain.

As one of the leading manufacturers, Liebherr provides detailed data and technical information for its wheeled excavators, helping users compare equipment specifications and make informed decisions. Spacious cabs with ergonomic controls and intuitive touchscreen displays ensure a seamless operator experience.

Additionally, all models come equipped with Liebherr's intelligent assistance systems, such as automatic axle locking and load-sensing hydraulics, optimizing efficiency and safety. Optional features include joystick steering for enhanced manoeuvrability, factory-integrated tiltrotators for increased attachment versatility, and various boom configurations to meet specific application needs. Liebherr's Solidlink quick coupler system is also available, allowing for fast, secure tool changes from the operator's seat.

2. JCB wheeled excavator

The Hydradig 110W, JCB's sole wheeled excavator, is purpose-built to meet the demands of modern construction sites. Engineered to give operators excellent visibility, stability, manoeuvrability, mobility, and serviceability, it features a low centre of gravity for on-road stability and lifting performance and a tight turning radius.

3. Volvo Construction Equipment wheeled excavators

Compared to similarly sized backhoe loaders and truck-mounted excavators, Volvo's wheeled excavators can complete tasks in less than half the time while consuming up to four times less fuel.

A wide range of easy-to-fit attachments, auxiliary hydraulic circuits, and multiple boom and arm configurations make them versatile. Volvo models travel at speeds of up to 22 mph with operating weights ranging from 6 to 25 tons. Work modes simplify operation while reducing idle time and fuel consumption.

Optional blades and outriggers add stability, and optional auto-greasing supplies the correct amount of lubrication to all greasing points on a timed basis. Optional Smart View technology gives operators a 360-degree view of the machine's surroundings using cameras and a radar detection system.

Pictured above, the EWR130E is a 13-ton wheeled excavator with a short front and rear swing radius. It's ideal for urban jobs with frequent roading, confined job sites where safety is paramount, and even landscaping projects. It has a low centre of gravity, adding to its stability.

The 121-hp D4J Volvo engine and standard two-piece boom enable excellent breakout force, tearout force, and lifting capacity up to 9,480 pounds at a 19.7-foot reach. The EWR130E has a spacious cab, outstanding visibility, programmable pressure and flow for up to 32 attachments, a top speed of 22 mph, and the option for Volvo Smart View.

4. Caterpillar wheeled excavators

Caterpillar Next Gen wheeled excavators come from the factory with several key elements that enhance uptime, versatility, and performance. Caterpillar's standard EH Hydraulics provide several key advantages, including fewer hydraulic lines/fittings/potential leak points, configuration of the controls to match operator preferences, and enabling productivity tools such as E-Fence, Cab Avoidance, Grade (2D and 3D), and Payload.

In addition, the Next Gen wheeled excavators are tiltrotator-ready from the factory, meaning they are equipped with all the necessary electronic control modules and wiring harnesses to provide plug-and-play installations of tiltrotators.

The M316, featured above, is a versatile excavator that excels in both urban and rural applications, including utility installation and maintenance, road construction, and right-of-way and waterway maintenance. Key features include EH Hydraulics, tiltrotator-ready compatibility, and ground-level service points.

Optional features, such as cab, undercarriage, boom/stick, and quick coupler/work tool configurations; ride control; and Smart Boom are available, with the most substantial optional features being Ease of Use technologies consisting of Grade (2D and 3D), E-Fence (floor, ceiling, swing, wall), Cab Avoidance, and Payload.

5. DEVELON wheeled excavators

DEVELON wheeled excavators can be configured with a front dozer blade and rear outriggers, or with front and rear outriggers. Both configurations provide additional stability when the machine is working.

An articulated boom is available as an option, allowing operators to perform lifting and loading tasks more easily. For enhanced safety, an optional around-view monitor camera system provides up to 360 degrees of visibility. Also available are ultrasonic sensors that alert wheeled excavator operators when the machine gets too close to another object. Six additional LED work lights can be added to DEVELON wheeled excavators for increased visibility.

Pictured above, the DX100W-7 mini wheeled excavator has a 100.6-hp engine, an operating weight of 25,221 pounds, and a dig depth of 13 feet 11 inches. Ideal for working and driving on paved surfaces, the DX100W-7 is capable of operating in tight spaces. The machine features a 360-degree swing capability and an articulated boom. Plus, a 1.35-ton counterweight gives it extra stability when lifting materials. Operators can choose from three steering modes to best fit the application and the terrain: two-wheel, four-wheel crab, and four-wheel round.

6. CASE Construction Equipment wheeled excavators

CASE Construction Equipment's E Series wheeled excavators are built for mobility, so you can cover more ground and get more work done faster and easier.

These machines help businesses improve efficiency by streamlining operations and increasing productivity. They can hit the road at speeds up to 25 mph, no truck or trailer required. They're purpose-built for roadbuilders, municipalities, utilities, demo crews, and anyone else who wants the advantages a wheeled excavator brings to the job site. CASE and its network also regularly offer promotions to support business growth and customer engagement.

The WX210E wheeled excavator is designed to help crews who need more versatile machines for today's busy urban job sites. Equipped with a 170-hp engine and powerful breakout forces as well as plenty of lifting and craning capabilities, CASE says the 24-ton WX210E is fast-moving, high-tech, and ready for clearing land or breaking through rocky terrain with efficiency and ease.

Advanced hydraulics enable precision control, while three preset power modes plus Lift mode take the guesswork out of efficient operation. An air-suspension heated seat and large glass surfaces give operators more comfort and better visibility out on the job site. 

7. John Deere Construction & Forestry wheeled excavator

John Deere offers one mid-size wheeled excavator in North America, the 190G W. With a variety of boom, blade, bucket, and outrigger options to choose from, the 190G W is a well-rounded solution for earthmoving, transporting materials, loading trucks, clearing ditches, roadwork, and installing utilities.

8. Takeuchi wheeled excavator

Takeuchi entered the wheeled excavator market in 2024 with its first model, the TB395W. With the TB395W, Takeuchi expands the versatility of its equipment lineup and combines performance, durability, serviceability, and comfort features to ensure reliable performance for operators.

The TB395W wheeled excavator is designed for urban construction, roadwork, and municipal projects. With a two-piece swing boom, two-wheel or four-wheel/crab steering option, and a load-sensing hydraulic system, the TB395W offers precision and versatility.

An Auto Cruise feature allows operators to set and adjust travel speeds, while its long arm enables efficient operation in tight spaces, in addition to extended reach. Optional features include the OPG Level 2 front guard and the Service Port Performance Package, which provides automatic pressure release and adjustable pressure settings for service ports 1 and 2, along with a high-pressure capability for service port 1.

9. Mecalac wheeled excavator

Mecalac's MWR Series excavators are purpose-built, offering the flexibility and versatility of a skid-steer or compact track loader in one machine with greater mobility than tracked excavators. The MWR series machines have a low centre of gravity while still maintaining a high ground clearance. This ensures exceptional stability even while operating off-road and on slopes and simultaneously reduces the risk of undercarriage damage from obstacles on the ground.

Four-wheel steering makes the machines highly manoeuvrable. The machines can transition between attachments in under a minute using Mecalac's hydraulic quick coupler. The Mecalac boom system allows for unloading pallets below grade.

Pictured above, the 9MWR is designed to excel in applications within the general construction, landscaping, forestry, municipality, and utility construction industries. The 9MWR offers a diverse offering of features, including a 75-hp Tier 4 Final diesel engine, four-wheel drive, a rigid undercarriage, articulated boom with offset, Mecalac CONNECT hydraulic quick coupler, and MyMecalac fleet management technology. Some optional features include air conditioning, integrated and automated cameras, and enhanced speed up to 22 mph.

10. HD Hyundai Construction Equipment wheeled excavators  

Standard features of Hyundai's wheeled excavators include advanced hydraulic systems for smooth operation, spacious operator cabins with large touchscreen displays, and integrated safety technologies like all-around cameras.

Hyundai provides comprehensive data and telematics, enabling users to receive timely updates and support for their wheeled excavators. Their durable undercarriages and fuel-efficient engines ensure reliability and cost savings.

Optional features include factory-installed machine guidance solutions, additional work modes for specialized applications, and various boom configurations to enhance reach and efficiency. Auxiliary hydraulics, quick couplers, and customizable lighting packages further tailor these machines to different job sites.

The HW210A delivers powerful performance for roadwork, urban projects, and infrastructure development. Its 173-hp Cummins engine and hydrostatic 4-wheel drive provide exceptional traction and fuel efficiency. The Electronic Pump Flow Control (EPFC) system enhances precision and efficiency by adjusting hydraulic flow based on operator demand, improving both fuel savings and cycle times.

The spacious ROPS/FOPS-certified cabin features an 8-inch touchscreen, ergonomic controls, and an advanced audio system. Safety is prioritized with Hyundai's around-view monitoring system, safety valves, and an auto safety lock. Optional features include 2D and 3D grading systems, tiltrotator compatibility, and Hi MATE telematics for remote fleet management.

11. Wacker Neuson wheeled excavators

Wacker Neuson wheeled excavators offer mobility, flexibility, and performance on a multitude of construction sites. Wacker Neuson helps users understand their equipment through intuitive controls and clear displays, enabling them to generate greater productivity and efficiency on the job site.

Designed for intuitive operation and enhanced visibility, the EW65 and EW100 offer operator comfort and safety. These compact and powerful models deliver quick working cycles, as well as increased digging range with an articulated triple boom.

A variable drive system reduces the rate of fuel consumption, and the road travel mode helps reduce time- and cost-intensive trailer transport. This is especially helpful in municipal or residential applications, as the operator can easily jump in the cab and move quickly from one job location to another. Routing of hydraulic components is simple and clearly defined for maximum efficiency, as well as durability. 

The EW100 10-ton wheeled excavator offers the power and efficiency of a 14-ton machine. Available with two fuel-efficient Perkins diesel engine options, the high-performance edition features a 136-hp engine and travel speeds up to 24 mph. The high-performance edition also offers multiple auxiliary circuits, including high flow, allowing operators to easily run high-performance attachments such as mulchers, mowers, and brush cutters. The collaboration of attachment management and assistance systems with an optimized field of vision around the machine makes work on a busy job site safer and more productive.