Backhoe vs. Skid Steer vs. Excavator: What’s the Difference & Which One Do You Need?

If you're tackling a big project that requires moving dirt, digging trenches, or leveling ground, you’ll likely need heavy equipment. But with so many options— backhoes , skid steers , and excavators —which one is the best for your job?

Each machine has unique strengths and is best suited for specific tasks. Choosing the right one can save you time, money, and effort, whether you're preparing land for a patio, digging a foundation, or clearing debris.

In this guide, we will break down the key differences, best uses, and rental costs for each machine so you can make an informed decision.
 

Backhoe vs. Skid Steer vs. Excavator: Key Differences

Machine	Best For	Pros	Cons	Rental Cost (Daily Estimate)
Backhoe	Digging trenches, lifting, grading	Versatile, can dig & move materials	Larger, harder to maneuver in tight spaces	$350
Skid Steer	Land grading, snow removal, lifting	Compact, highly maneuverable	Limited digging depth	$500
Excavator	Heavy digging, deep trenching	Powerful, 360-degree rotation	Not ideal for lifting or grading	$550

Now, let's break down each machine in detail.
 

Backhoe

A backhoe is one of the most versatile machines on a job site, combining a digger in the back and a loader in the front. This means it can dig trenches and move materials like dirt, gravel, or sand.

✅ Best Uses for a Backhoe:

• Digging trenches for plumbing, electrical lines, or foundations.

• Lifting & moving materials such as soil, gravel, or debris.

• Grading & leveling land for construction or landscaping projects.

❌ When Not to Use a Backhoe:

• If you only need to dig deep trenches, an excavator is better.

• If you need a highly maneuverable machine in a tight space, a skid steer is better.

💰 Backhoe Rental Costs

• Daily Rate: Around $350

• Weekly Rate: Around $1000

 

Skid Steer

A skid steer is a small, highly maneuverable machine with a front loader bucket. Unlike a backhoe, it doesn't have a digging arm, but it’s perfect for moving material, grading land, and lifting heavy loads.

✅ Best Uses for a Skid Steer:

• Grading & leveling land for patios, driveways, or foundations.

• Moving dirt, gravel, and debris quickly in small areas.

• Snow removal & site cleanup.

❌ When Not to Use a Skid Steer:

• If you need to dig deep trenches, an excavator or backhoe is better.

• If you're working on uneven terrain, an excavator with tracks offers better stability.

💰 Skid Steer Rental Costs

• Daily Rate: $500

• Weekly Rate: $1500

Pro Tip: Tracked skid steers offer better traction on rough terrain, while wheeled models are better for paved surfaces.

 

Excavator

An excavator is designed for deep digging and heavy lifting. Unlike a backhoe, it has a full 360-degree rotating arm, allowing for greater flexibility when digging or demolishing structures.

✅ Best Uses for an Excavator:

• Digging deep trenches for foundations, pools, or drainage.

• Excavating soil & rocks for large-scale projects.

• Demolition & heavy lifting.

❌ When Not to Use an Excavator:

• If you need to move materials long distances, a backhoe is better.

• If you’re working in a tight space, a skid steer is better.

💰 Excavator Rental Costs

• Daily Rate: $300 - $600

• Weekly Rate: $1,200 - $2,500

Pro Tip: Mini excavators are great for small projects where space is limited.

 

Which One Should You Rent?

Choose a Backhoe If:

• You need a machine that can both dig and move materials.

• You’re working on a mid-sized project like trenching, lifting, or grading.

Choose a Skid Steer If:

• You need a compact, maneuverable machine for grading and lifting.

• You’re working in a small area like a backyard or driveway.

Choose an Excavator If:

• You need to dig deep trenches for a foundation, pool, or drainage system.

• You need maximum power for excavation or demolition.
   

Renting the Right Equipment for the Job

Each machine has its advantages, and choosing the right one can save you time and money on your project. Renting allows you to get the best equipment without the high cost of ownership. If you are wondering if it is better to rent or own a piece of equipment, check out our blog with a free buying vs. renting cost calculator! (include link)

Contact A to Z Equipment Rentals today for expert advice and a personalized quote!