Choosing the right excavator is about more than just size and brand — it’s also about the undercarriage type. Whether it’s wheels, rubber tracks, or steel tracks, each configuration affects how your excavator moves, where it performs best, and what kind of jobs it’s most suited for.
Here’s a practical breakdown to help you make the right choice.
1. Wheeled Excavators
✅ Best For:
• Urban construction
• Road maintenance
• Flat, paved surfaces
Advantages:
• Fast travel speed (can drive between nearby job sites without transport)
• Less damage to roads and concrete
• Excellent maneuverability in tight city environments
Disadvantages:
• Not suitable for muddy, soft, or uneven terrain
• Lower stability on slopes or rough ground
• Generally higher cost
Ideal for contractors working in cities or on-road projects.
2. Rubber Tracked Excavators
✅ Best For:
• Landscaping
• Light construction
• Residential or mixed-terrain sites
Advantages:
• Gentle on finished surfaces (lawns, driveways, asphalt)
• Good grip on varied terrain
• Quieter operation and reduced vibration
• More affordable than steel tracks
Disadvantages:
• Rubber tracks wear faster on rough or sharp surfaces
• Limited load-bearing ability compared to steel
• Not ideal for heavy-duty demolition or mining
A solid all-rounder, perfect for small to mid-size jobs and versatile environments.
3. Steel Tracked Excavators
✅ Best For:
• Heavy-duty construction
• Demolition
• Mining or forestry
• Unstable, rocky, or muddy terrain
Advantages:
• Superior traction on rough, wet, or sloped ground
• Long lifespan with proper maintenance
• Better weight distribution and load handling
• Suitable for extreme conditions
Disadvantages:
• Heavy and slower to move
• Damages asphalt, concrete, and delicate surfaces
• Noisy and more vibration
• Requires transport between job sites
Best choice for power-intensive, off-road, and long-term construction projects.
Looking for an Excavator for your work?
BBY Equipment offer a wide range of mini excavators with rubber tracks, steel tracks, and wheel-based designs. Whether you’re a landscaping contractor or handling large construction projects, our machines are selected for Australian conditions and backed by expert support.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to excavator undercarriages. The key is choosing the type that matches your terrain, frequency of use, transport needs, and job size.
With the right choice, you’ll not only work more efficiently but also extend the life of your equipment and reduce overall costs.