Digging Into Ag Efficiency
In modern agriculture, precision and versatility are key. Whether you’re working on irrigation, fence lines, or land for conservation projects, John Deere compact excavators offer the power and control needed to get the job done right. At 21st Century Equipment, we’re proud to support farmers with machines built for productivity in tight spaces and rugged terrain. While there are many choices, selecting the top compact and mini excavators ensures efficiency.
Why Compact Excavators Matter in Agriculture
John Deere’s compact excavators are more than construction tools—they’re farm essentials. Here’s why:
- Tight-Space Maneuverability: Ideal for working between rows, inside barns, or around livestock pens.
- Attachment Versatility: Hydraulic thumbs, augers, trenchers, and grading blades make these machines multi-purpose, marking them as top compact and mini excavators in the field.
- Fuel Efficiency & Low Impact: Designed to minimize soil compaction and maximize uptime.
- SmartGrade™ Technology: Available on select models for grading and land shaping.
Featured Models for Ag Operations
17G Compact Excavator
- Operating Weight: 3,790 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: 7 ft. 2 in.
- Best For: Tight barn spaces, irrigation trenching, and small land clearing
- Highlights: Variable-width undercarriage and foldable blade for narrow areas; mechanical quick-coupler and auxiliary hydraulics for attachments like augers and trenchers.
26G Compact Excavator
- Operating Weight: 6,110 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: 8 ft. 6 in.
- Best For: Fence line trenching, drainage work, and post-hole digging
- Highlights: Optional long-arm configuration for added reach; diverter valve for plumbing dedicated attachments; redesigned cab with heat, A/C, Bluetooth, and LED lighting. This model is part of our top compact and mini excavators selection.
30G Compact Excavator
- Operating Weight: 7,220 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: 9 ft. 2 in.
- Best For: Mid-size trenching, tree planting, and utility installation
- Highlights: Strong lift capacity and breakout force; works with wedge-style attachments for cost-effective upgrades.
35G Compact Excavator
- Operating Weight: 8,135 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: 10 ft.
- Best For: Conservation projects, culvert installation, and tough ag tasks
- Highlights: Thumb-ready bracket standard; JDLink™ telematics for machine health and location tracking. Without a doubt, this belongs to the top compact and mini excavators lineup.
See our full selection of equipment on the 21st Century shop page.