THE SANY SY35U VS. THE Cat® 303.5CR, a mini excavator comparison

Note: We previously compared the SANY SY35U to the Cat® 303CR, but the 303.5CR is a better equal for the SANY, so we’ve created this new comparison.

SEE OLDER COMPARISON

We're laying it all out by comparing the SANY SY35U and the Cat® 303.5CR so that you can make an informed decision for your next machine. We want our customers to feel confident knowing which machines will provide the best performance and return on investment.

SANY now offers a Pro configuration of the SY35U. It keeps everything that makes the SY35U a strong mini excavator and adds a few factory upgrades aimed at contractors who want more grading capability, a roomier cab, and better balance for heavier attachments. For simplicity's sake, we’ll focus on the standard SY35U, but we encourage you to read more about what the Pro has to offer.

SANY SY35U STANDARD VS. PRO

SANY SY35U vs the Cat® 303.5CR

The SANY SY35 and Cat® 303.5 both stand out in their class size. These 8,000-lb pint-sized beasts are some of the most versatile and widely used mini excavators on the market today. For many owners and operators alike, this class size provides excellent power and maneuverability while still offering users a more compact size to fit into tighter spaces.

Due to their power-to-weight ratio, mini excavators provide users with plenty of capability for various tasks, including landscaping, demolition, utility work, road repairs, and more. Their wide range of functions makes these small excavators ideal for any project or job site.

The SANY SY35U and Cat® 303.5 boast impressive features that keep the customer in mind whether you are digging or driving to your next site. Tie-downs built right into the frame, 12” rubber tracks, and front-facing dozer blades are just the beginning of what makes these minis all-mighty.

Performance side by side

SANY SY35U Performance

• Strong digging reach and solid breakout numbers for the class.
• Zero-tail swing keeps you from clipping nearby obstacles on tight jobs.
• Two-way auxiliary hydraulics and load sensing as standard, plus pre-plumbed coupler lines for quick attachment swaps.
• Designed to deliver a balance of digging power and stability for repeated production work.

Cat 303.5CR Performance

• Compact package with a focus on serviceability. Tilt-up cab gives easy access to maintenance points.
• Load-sensing hydraulics and two-way flow match the SY35U in capability; optional plumbing on the full stick is available for more attachment flexibility.
• Proven Caterpillar durability and broad dealer network, with many optional safety and comfort packages dealers can add.

With all these features in mind, it is easy to see why both excavators offer superb performance for those tackling serious construction jobs.

Operator comforts and daily usability

SANY SY35U (standard)

• Cab and canopy options are both available. Choose cab for full comfort packages, canopy for a lighter, lower-cost spec.
• Cab models include HVAC, a radio with Bluetooth, and a pattern-change control valve as standard. This reflects SANY’s “fully loaded” approach on cab units.
• The Pro cab is larger and quieter, with improved ergonomics for long shifts. Pro cab models also ship with a float blade, and there is an option for an angle blade for faster grading and slope work.
• Routine service points are laid out for fast daily checks and easy access, helping crews get checks done quickly and keep machines working.

SANY SY35U Pro

• Same core platform as the SY35U with practical, operator-facing upgrades.
• Roomier cab, angle blade option on cab models, refined hydraulics, and upgraded auxiliary/flow handling for demanding attachments.
• Designed to reduce operator fatigue on long shifts and speed finishing tasks like grading and backfill.

Cat 303.5CR

• Tilt-up cab makes engine access and maintenance faster for shop techs.
• Operator-selectable controls such as stick-steer are useful for crews that prefer tailored handling.
• Many comfort and lighting features are often offered as dealer-installed options rather than standard equipment. Confirm the exact cab and light package with your dealer before buying.

Quick buying checklist

• Let operators test both machines for 15-20 minutes (feel and comfort matter more than you think).
• Match hydraulic flow and diverter plumbing to the attachments you’ll run.
• Compare real dealer support in your area; fast parts and a responsive tech are the difference between a small problem and a day of downtime.

Warranties and Dealer Support

SANY offers a five-year / 5,000-hour factory warranty on excavators, which gives a long runway of protection for structural and major component issues. Caterpillar typically ships with a 12-24 month factory warranty, depending on the machine and country; extended coverage and protection plans are available through dealers.

Warranty is only part of the story: travel policy, local parts stock, and a dealer’s service responsiveness make a big difference in real uptime. Check with your local dealer for exact warranty terms, travel coverage, and average parts turnaround times before you buy.

How to decide for your business

• If you want a machine that ships with more factory features and fewer dealer add-ons, pick the SANY SY35U or the SY35U Pro. The Pro adds a roomier cab, a float blade, and operator-focused upgrades that speed finishing work.
• Choose the Cat 303.5CR when dealer proximity, local service familiarity, or resale in your market matter more. Cat’s dealer ecosystem make maintenance straightforward.
• Match machine geometry to the work. For tight spaces, zero-tail or swing-boom designs and clear sightlines matter most. For heavy digging or frequent attachments, prioritize breakout force and auxiliary flow.
• Think total cost of ownership. Compare standard vs dealer-installed features, parts pricing and availability, and warranty terms rather than just sticker price.

Both machines are solid picks in this class. The best one for you comes down to the work you do, how soon you need parts and service, and what your operators prefer. Browse our current inventory of mini excavators or contact our sales team to get spec sheets, local availability, pricing, and to schedule a demo on the lot.

Check out our inventory today!

Specs and standard feature packages can change from year to year. Always confirm the exact model year, serial number, and factory or dealer options before purchasing. If you want, we’ll verify a VIN or spec sheet for any unit you’re considering.

SHOP EXCAVATORS