Mini Digger vs Micro Digger: Which Do You Need?
Trying to decide between a mini digger and a micro digger? They sound similar, but the difference in size changes what jobs each can do. Here's a straight comparison to help you choose, with prices on both.
- Brand new, not ex-hire
- Factory-direct prices
- Free UK delivery
- 12-month warranty
The difference, in plain terms
A micro digger is the smallest class, under roughly 1 tonne. A mini digger usually means 1 tonne and up. The trade-off is simple: a micro digger wins on access, a mini digger wins on capability.
Our 0.65-tonne L600 micro is 690 mm wide and fits through a standard gateway, digging to about 1.1 metres. It's ideal for tight gardens, confined spaces and light domestic work. Our 1-tonne L1000 mini is 930 mm wide, digs to 1.66 metres and reaches over 3 metres, with more digging force for trenching, foundations and general groundworks.
If every job is tight and light, the micro is the sensible choice. If you need depth, reach and power, and can get a slightly wider machine in, the mini does far more. Many buyers who expect to grow into bigger jobs choose the mini for the headroom.
Want the full picture? Read our complete mini digger buying guide, work out payback with the excavator ROI calculator, or get in touch and we'll help you choose.
Our mini diggers for sale
Every machine is brand new, built to order and delivered direct to your door. Prices include VAT and free UK delivery.
Save £1,800
Mini-pelle Lion L600 | Micro-excavatrice
Mini-pelle Lion L1800 PRO | 1,8T avec pouce hydraulique
Mini-pelle Lion L1800 | Mini-pelle 1,8T
Save £2,000
Mini-pelle L1000 | Mini-excavatrice
Save £500
Mini-Pelle Lion L1200 PRO | Mini-Excavatrice 1.2T | Pouce/Grappin Hydraulique
Compare the mini digger range
 Lion L6000.65t micro£4,69499
View |  Lion L10001t mini£6,99499
View |  Lion L12001.2t mini£8,49499
View |  Lion L18001.8t£9,49499
View | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 650 kg | 1,050 kg | 1,200 kg | 1,800 kg |
| Engine | Petrol | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Access | 690 mm wide | 930 mm wide | 930 mm wide | Compact |
| Best for | Tight access & gardens | General groundworks | Heavier groundworks | Regular heavy-duty work |
Cost and running differences
A micro digger costs less to buy, less to transport and can move on a smaller trailer. A mini costs a little more but earns it back on any job beyond light garden work, because it digs deeper and faster. Both of ours are quick-hitch compatible, so either can run buckets, a breaker, an auger, a ripper and more.
Use the comparison table below to weigh the exact figures side by side, and if you're still unsure, our ROI calculator shows how quickly each pays for itself on your typical jobs.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mini digger better than a micro digger?
What's the weight difference between a mini and micro digger?
Which is cheaper to run?
Are the machines new or used?
How much does a mini digger cost?
Do you deliver across the UK?
Is finance available?
Can I add attachments?
Find the right machine
Browse the range, work out your payback with the calculator, or talk to a real UK-based person who can help you pick.