Excavators are essential machines across construction, demolition, and earthmoving. At AE Faulks, we supply both wheeled and tracked excavators for hire, giving our customers flexibility to match the right machine to the right job.
While both types share a similar design, their performance differs depending on the terrain and the task. Choosing correctly can save time, reduce costs, and prevent unnecessary wear on equipment. Here’s a breakdown of how wheeled and tracked excavators compare, and what you should consider when hiring.
Versatility
When high-production digging is needed, tracked excavators are typically the machine of choice. They excel in bulk excavation, demolition, quarry work and land clearance, often conducted on softer or uneven ground where tracks give better traction and reduced ground pressure.
For urban environments, wheeled excavator is usually more practical. They offer superior versatility and manoeuvrability on paved surfaces and are less likely to damage tarmac, concrete, or other fragile ground. With the right attachments, they can still manage digging, demolition, and lifting, making them a solid choice for mid-sized projects in towns and cities.
Our 14t and 18t wheeled excavators come with a two-piece boom, also known as a variable adjustable (VA) boom or triple articulated boom (TAB). This design increases working range, improves right-side visibility, and enhances machine balance while travelling. It’s particularly useful when working in confined spaces or when extended reach is needed.
Stability
Tracked excavators sit lower than wheeled models, with a bigger footprint and heavier undercarriage. This combination gives them greater stability, especially on uneven or sloped terrain.
Wheeled excavators, however, are fitted with a dozer blade and outriggers. When these are deployed on firm ground, they provide stability comparable to a tracked machine.
For lifting operations, wheeled excavator can often outperform tracked ones thanks to stabilisers and the flexibility of the two-piece boom, which allows the operators to move the loads closer to the machine.
Digging Power
Tracked excavator deliver more digging power, making them the better way for heavy earthmoving or when working in difficult soil conditions.
Wheeled excavators are less powerful in this respect, but their advantage lies in the flexibility and precision rather than raw digging strength. They can be fitted with a wide range of attachments, enabling them to complete jobs where larger tracked excavators would be impractical. For example, in roadworks or built-up environments, a wheeled excavator can conduct trenching, lifting, and material handling without the disruption caused by a heavier tracked model.
Mobility
This is where wheeled excavators stand out. They can travel at speeds of up to 22 miles per hour, moving easily between various parts of a site or even between sites without the need of other transport. This saves time and cost where frequent repositioning is needed.
Tracked excavators, however, move at just 4-6 miles per hour and cause damage to the paved surfaces. If your project requires working across multiple hard-surface areas, wheeled excavators are likely the more productive choice. For projects based on a single, rough-terrain site, tracked machines are still the better fit.
Other Considerations When Hiring
When deciding between wheeled and tracked excavators, think about:
- Site access: Is the ground soft and uneven. Or paved and stable?
- Type of work: Are you focused on heavy digging and demolition, or more precise tasks in confined areas?
- Transport needs: Will the machine need to move around often or between sites?
- Attachments: Do you need specialised tools such as grabs, breakers, or grapples that may work better with one type?
A trusted plant hire company should guide you through these questions, ensuring you get the machine that delivers both efficiency and safety.
If your job involves clearing, digging or demolition in open unpaved areas, a tracked excavator will usually be the best choice. For projects in urban areas or paved surfaces, wheeled excavators offer manoeuvrability and speed to keep work moving efficiently. At AE Faulks, we supply a range of both tracked and wheeled excavators to suit different project requirements. Whether you need raw digging power or versatile mobility, our team can advise on the most suitable choice for your site. Browse our range of excavator hire or get in touch with our team for advice on choosing the right machine for your project.
