Komatsu PC200-11 vs Cat 320: The Short Version
The Komatsu PC200-11 and Cat 320 compete in the same everyday 20-ton excavator buying conversation: utilities, trenching, drainage, basements, site prep, roadwork, rental fleets, and light production loading. The Cat 320 page on Heavy Equipment Hub lists 172 hp net power, 49,800 lb operating weight, 22 ft digging depth, 1.56 yd3 HD bucket basis, 113 gpm hydraulic flow, and 5.2 gal/hr planning fuel burn. The Komatsu PC200-11 profile uses 165 hp class output, 43,650 lb Japan standard operating weight, 21.7 ft digging depth, 1.05 yd3 bucket basis, 105.7 gal fuel tank, and 5.1 gal/hr planning fuel burn.
Side-by-Side Decision Points
| Decision Point | Komatsu PC200-11 | Cat 320 |
|---|---|---|
| Class fit | 20-ton regional PC200 class; verify exact market build | 20-ton Next Gen reference configuration |
| Power | 165 hp class site profile; PC200-11M1 lists 108 kW gross | 172 hp net reference |
| Operating weight | 43,650 lb Japan standard reference; PC200-11M1 lists 20,100 kg | 49,800 lb reference |
| Digging depth | 21.7 ft site profile; PC200-11M1 lists 6,515 mm | 22.0 ft reference |
| Bucket basis | 1.05 yd3 site basis; PC200-11M1 lists 0.94-1.06 m3 | 1.56 yd3 HD bucket reference |
| Fuel burn estimate | 5.1 gal/hr Heavy Equipment Hub estimate | 5.2 gal/hr Heavy Equipment Hub estimate |
When the Komatsu PC200-11 Makes More Sense
The PC200-11 makes sense when Komatsu dealer support is stronger locally, the fleet already stocks Komatsu filters and wear parts, operators prefer Komatsu hydraulic feel, the job benefits from a slightly lighter published planning profile, and the exact regional machine matches transport limits, trench dimensions, bucket choice, and attachment needs. It is also a strong shortlist candidate when a clean service history and undercarriage inspection are better than the competing Cat unit.
When the Cat 320 Makes More Sense
The Cat 320 may be the better choice when Cat dealer coverage, Cat Grade or Payload workflows, heavier published reference weight, local resale demand, attachment support, and operator familiarity matter more than a small fuel-burn estimate difference. It can also be easier to evaluate in markets where Cat 320 spec sheets, auction comps, and parts support are more consistent.
Buying Checks That Matter More Than the Logo
Inspect oil samples, filter history, hydraulic temperature complaints, idle percentage, track measurement, final drive leaks, bucket and coupler wear, attachment plumbing, fault codes, service invoices, and serial-specific spec documentation. A clean PC200 with verified regional specs can beat a poorly maintained Cat 320. A clean Cat 320 can beat a vague-import PC200 with mismatched parts support.
Use the Compare Tool for the Shortlist
Open the comparison tool and add the Komatsu PC200, Cat 320, Cat 330, and Komatsu PC360LC-11. That shows whether the project belongs in the 20-ton class or whether moving up lowers cost per production unit.
Source and Verification Notes
Cat 320 values are based on Caterpillar public specifications. Komatsu PC200 values use Heavy Equipment Hub's source-checked regional profile plus Komatsu public PC200-11M1 data for current regional context. Confirm exact market, serial number, boom, arm, bucket, undercarriage, emissions package, counterweight, and attachment piping before buying, renting, hauling, or bidding.
