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WorksiteMachines

Comparison · Backhoe loader

Caterpillar 420 vs JCB 3CX

The Caterpillar 420 is about 5% heavier than the JCB 3CX (8,850 vs 8,400 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Caterpillar 420 has about 3% more engine power (70 kW (94 hp) vs 68 kW (91 hp)).

Beyond the numbers, compare local dealer support, parts availability and resale value for Caterpillar and JCB in your region: over the life of a machine they often matter more than small specification differences.

Caterpillar 420F IT backhoe loader
Caterpillar Caterpillar 420
JCB 3CX backhoe loader standing on its stabilisers
JCB JCB 3CX
Operating weight 8,850 kg (19,500 lb)8,400 kg (18,500 lb)
Engine power 70 kW (94 hp)68 kW (91 hp)
Net power ≈70 kW (94 hp)—
Max. digging depth ≈4.4 m (14 ft 5 in) std; ≈5.3 m (17 ft 5 in) extended≈5.9 m (19 ft 4 in) with extending dipper
Engine Cat C3.6JCB DieselMax 448
Loader bucket ≈1.0–1.2 m³ (1.3–1.6 yd³)≈1.0–1.3 m³ (1.3–1.7 yd³)
Engine power —≈55–81 kW (74–109 hp), by version
Top speed —≈40 km/h (25 mph)
Strengths
  • + Smooth hydraulic and pilot control options
  • + Integrated tool-carrier (IT) loader option for forks
  • + Strong Cat dealer support
  • + Proven design and huge parts availability
  • + Side-shift option for work against walls
  • + Strong resale, especially in Europe and India
Watch-outs
  • − More expensive than CASE and Deere equivalents
  • − Electronics-heavy compared with older models
  • − Equal-wheel 4WS versions cost considerably more
  • − Some versions have a smaller loader bucket than US rivals
Full 420 reviewFull 3CX review

Specifications are typical figures for standard configurations and may be measured differently by each manufacturer (for example net vs gross power). Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer. Build another comparison.