- Which is better for digging a foundation or long trench?
- The Typhon. It publishes an 86.5 in digging depth, 133 in digging radius and 3,147 lbf bucket force, and its diesel engine holds up under sustained digging. The Katool lists no digging figures, so it suits lighter trenching and landscaping.
- Is the Typhon worth about $9,500 more than the Katool?
- Yes if you work in cold or hot weather or dig every week. The cab with A/C and heat, diesel engine, hydraulic thumb and retractable tracks are all things the Katool lacks. For occasional light jobs in good weather, the Katool at $4,490 is the better value.
- Which is easier to move between job sites?
- The Katool is the lighter, simpler machine and should tow on a smaller trailer. The Typhon weighs 4,200 lb and travels at 1.3 mph, so plan on a heavier trailer and tow vehicle.
- Does either come with a thumb?
- Both do. The Katool includes a mechanical thumb that you adjust by hand. The Typhon has a hydraulic thumb clip you control from the seat.
- Can the Typhon fit through a narrow gate?
- Yes. Its tracks retract from 1,300 mm to 1,000 mm, about 39 in wide, and the boom swings so you can dig close to walls. The Katool has fixed tracks.
- Which lasts longer?
- The Typhon's Kubota diesel is built for long, hard duty and the enclosed cab protects the operator and controls. The Katool's Briggs & Stratton gas engine is fine for light, occasional use but will wear faster under daily commercial work.