My only concern would be if a pump fails or whatever and you're hunting for compatible parts. But, big name excavators are going to be way more $. We have black clay and when it's dry, the 1 ton is useless for anything below grade unless I wet it down first. I think 2 ton is the sweet spot, but $$$. But, I wish I owned one. Would compliment my tractor since I don't have a backhoe attachment.