How to Choose the Best Portable Compact Crusher for Your Business

Compact crushers have rapidly become essential tools for small contractors and construction businesses. They’re versatile, portable, and powerful enough to handle various crushing tasks, including recycling concrete, asphalt, and demolition waste. But with so many options available, how do you choose the compact crusher that perfectly suits your business needs?

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This guide will walk you through the key considerations when selecting a compact crusher, comparing specific machine models to help you make the best choice for your unique requirements.

Why Choose a Compact Crusher?

Compact crushers are designed to provide big performance in a small footprint. They’re ideal for businesses working in tight spaces or on smaller projects. Their benefits include:

• Portability: Easily transportable to different job sites.
• Efficiency: Crush material on-site, reducing hauling costs.
• Versatility: Handle various materials, from concrete and brick to asphalt and natural stone.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Lower operational and maintenance costs compared to larger crushers.

Now, let’s explore the key factors to consider when choosing your compact crusher.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Compact Crusher

1. Power Source

Compact crushers are powered either by diesel, electric, or a hybrid of the two. Each option comes with its own advantages.

• Diesel crushers (like the Terex EvoQuip Bison 35 and RubbleCrusher RCJ65T) are ideal for remote job sites without access to electricity.
• Electric crushers (such as the CM CR 600) are quieter and more eco-friendly, perfect for urban areas or environmentally conscious projects.
• Hybrid crushers (like the Barford 750J) offer flexibility with both power options, making them a great choice for diverse project needs.

2. Throughput (Tons Per Hour) of Compact Crushers

Your desired tons per hour (tph) not only affects job site productivity but also plays a significant role in cost considerations.

[Learn More Discover the factors that can impact a crusher's tons-per-hour performance Read Blog

• Smaller Projects: For tasks requiring up to 30 tph, machines like the Dragon CR400 are a great option. While they have a smaller output, they are more affordable and cost-effective for smaller-scale projects, making them ideal for operations with tighter budgets or less frequent use.
• Larger Projects: For higher-demand sites, models like the Terex EvoQuip Bison 120 or Barford 750J, delivering 80 tph or more, provide the efficiency and capacity needed for bigger workloads. While these machines come with a higher upfront cost, their robust throughput can save time and money in the long run on larger operations.

3. Static vs. Tracked Portable Compact Crushers

• Tracked crushers (like the Barford 750J and RubbleCrusher RCJ65T) are mobile and can be easily moved between sites, making them perfect for contractors who frequently change locations.

• Static crushers (such as the CM CR 600) are ideal for fixed-site applications, especially for small to medium-sized construction businesses repurposing demolition waste on one site. They’re also a great option for those who regularly crush in one specific place, like at your yard, where material is brought to you. Since static units don’t need to be tracked, they are more affordable than tracked machines. Even though these machines are static, these are still compact, portable and lightweight crushers, that can be easily lifted and repositioned when needed, offering flexibility and cost savings.

4. Portability

For contractors with limited space or who need to transport the crusher to different job sites, portability is key.

• Compact, lightweight models like the Dragon CR400 are perfect for easy loading and quick deployment.
• For a robust yet portable option, the Terex Bison 120 delivers high performance while remaining highly transportable.
• Even larger machines like the Barford 750J and Barford 750J RS are designed to be portable and compact, making them easy to load onto a trailer and move between job sites with ease.

Check out our how to crush concrete guide!

5. Material Considerations

When choosing the right crusher for the job, the material you're crushing plays a vital role in determining the best fit. Not all machines are built to handle every type of material, so it’s important to match the crusher to your specific needs.

Find out what is the best concrete crusher for your business.

Hard Rock Applications

Crushing hard rock requires heavy-duty machines capable of withstanding the intense demands. For these jobs, only the Barford 750J and Barford 750J RS are up to the task. These models are specifically designed for the rigors of hard rock crushing, providing the strength and durability needed to get the job done efficiently.

Jaw Box Functionality

Another key consideration is whether the crusher has a jaw box that can run in reverse. This feature is essential for clearing blockages and improving overall flexibility on the job site. Additionally, only machines with a jaw box that can run in reverse are suitable for crushing asphalt. Models like the Terex EvoQuip Bison 120 and Barford 750J come equipped with this useful capability, making them adaptable, easier to operate, and ideal for handling tough materials like asphalt.

Concrete, Brick, and Pavers

When it comes to concrete, brick, or pavers, all the models mentioned in this article including the Dragon CR400, Terex EvoQuip Bison 120, and the Barford 750J series—are suitable choices. These materials are generally less demanding to crush and thus compatible with compact, lightweight crushers as well as larger, more powerful options.

Crushing Concrete with Rebar

If your concrete contains a significant amount of rebar, this adds an extra layer of complexity. Large pieces of rebar can impact the jaw plates, causing increased wear and potentially reducing the machine's efficiency. For concrete with heavy rebar content, it’s essential to manually remove the extra-large pieces before feeding the material into the crusher.

• Larger, more powerful crushers like the Barford 750J and Barford 750J RS excel in this area. They are capable of handling significant amounts of rebar while still delivering quality crushed material. Equipped with an overband magnet, these machines can automatically remove rebar from the final product, ensuring a cleaner output.
• Smaller crushers can manage light rebar content but are much less forgiving. Excessive rebar in these smaller units may lead to blockages and increased wear, so extra care is required to optimize performance.

By considering these material-specific requirements and features, you can ensure your chosen crusher is perfectly suited for the task, maximized for efficiency, and built to handle the demands of your job site.

6. Input Size, Output Size & Jaw Adjustability

When choosing the right crusher for your project, it's crucial to consider input size, output size, and jaw adjustability. These factors play a major role in ensuring your equipment meets your production needs effectively and efficiently.

Input Size

The input size determines the size of material your crusher can handle. If the input size is too small, you might face challenges fitting in the rocks or concrete you need to process, which could result in additional pre-processing steps or the need for extra equipment. This can significantly impact both your time and budget. Make sure the crusher can accommodate the largest material you plan to process to avoid unnecessary complications.

Output Size

On the other hand, the output size of your crusher must match the requirements of your project. For example, some jobs demand highly specific material sizes, such as 3/4-inch minus material. Not all crushers are capable of crushing down to smaller sizes like this—larger units might struggle, or additional tools like screeners may become necessary. The Barford 750J RS, for instance, offers an onboard screener that allows you to separate larger material and achieve the exact product size you need for your job, saving time and simplifying logistics.

Jaw Adjustability

Jaw adjustability is another critical feature to consider. Adjusting the CSS (close side setting) allows you to control the jaw size and produce material in different dimensions for varying projects. Some modern crushers offer convenient hydraulic jaw adjustment, letting you modify settings effortlessly with the flick of a switch. This is an excellent time-saver if your projects require frequent adjustments. However, if you'll be sticking with a consistent product size, manual adjustment may be sufficient and less of a concern.

By evaluating these factors—input size, output size, and jaw adjustability—carefully, you can ensure your crusher is well-suited to your needs and optimize your investment for greater productivity and success.

7. Availability of Spare Parts - Choose Machinery Partner for Exceptional Service and Support

Consider the availability of replacement parts and technical support when choosing equipment. Downtime from maintenance or repairs can disrupt your workflow, so opt for manufacturers with readily available parts and responsive service. Crushers with simple maintenance requirements can also help reduce delays.

At Machinery Partner, we ensure your equipment stays up and running with excellent service and support. Need spare parts or expert machine engineers? We’ve got you covered. Manufacturers like Terex have U.S. warehouses stocked with parts, and you can order replacements for all machines, including Terex, directly through Machinery Partner. Call (888) 814-, and our team will help keep your operation efficient and on track.

Best Compact Portable Crushers for Your Business

To help you find the perfect match, we’ve categorized the top compact crushers based on their unique strengths.

1. Best for Making On-Spec Material - Barford 750J RS

The Barford 750J RS is a compact, powerful crusher built for efficient material processing. Featuring a 28" x 20" single toggle jaw crusher and 34" wide discharge conveyor, it’s ideal for contractors crushing materials on-site. With remote control operation, it ensures convenience and safety while delivering high-quality, on-spec material.

Designed to handle concrete, asphalt, gravel, and hard rock, its compact size allows easy transport between job sites, while the durable build tackles tough projects with ease. For reliable, precise material production, the 750J RS is a top choice across industries.

• Includes a 7' x 3' three-way integrated screen for simultaneous crushing and screening.
• Ideal for producing precise, on-spec material right on site.
• Throughput: 30–150 tph.
• Suitable for rock applications.

2. Best All-Rounder - Terex EvoQuip Bison 120

The Terex EvoQuip Bison 120 is a compact, versatile jaw crusher ideal for small to medium-sized construction projects. Its portable design allows it to excel in tight spaces and urban environments. With a 27" x 16" jaw inlet and up to 80 tph throughput, it’s perfect for crushing concrete, asphalt, bricks, and natural stone. User-friendly features like hydraulic adjustments and intuitive controls ensure easy operation and minimal downtime. Whether for demolition waste, recycling, or aggregates, the Bison 120 delivers reliable performance and efficiency on any job site.

• Compact yet powerful with up to 80 tph throughput.
• Features a hydraulic jaw adjustment for versatility.
• Perfect for contractors needing a crusher suited for concrete, pavers, brick, C&D waste, soft rock, asphalt and more.
• Not suitable for hard rock applications.

3. Best for Small Contractors - Terex EvoQuip Bison 35

The Terex EvoQuip Bison 35 is an ultra-compact and highly portable jaw crusher, designed with small contractors in mind. Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and ideal for jobs with limited space or frequent relocations. Despite its small size, the Bison 35 is robust and packs a powerful punch, providing up to 30 tph throughput. This machine is particularly suited for recycling and demolition jobs, concrete crushing, and processing aggregates like bricks, pavers, and other construction materials. With simple operation and minimal setup time, the Bison 35 ensures you can tackle your workload efficiently, even on the tightest sites.

• Highly compact design, perfect for tight spaces.
• Up to 30 tph throughput, ideal for small-scale on-site crushing.
• Efficient and easy to operate.
• Not suitable for hard rock applications.

4. Best for Tight Urban Spaces - Dragon CR400 Crusher

The Dragon CR400 Crusher delivers powerful performance in a compact, portable design, ideal for smaller projects and tight spaces. Perfect for contractors or businesses with limited space, it’s easy to transport and set up, minimizing downtime so you can start working faster.

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Designed for processing materials like concrete, bricks and blocks, it’s a great solution for recycling and aggregate jobs. Whether clearing debris or repurposing materials, the Dragon CR400 ensures efficient, reliable performance.

• Lightweight and extremely portable, with anti-stall technology for smooth operation.
• Perfect for confined workspaces and on-the-go use.
• Throughput of up to 8 tph.
• Not made for rock applications

5. Best for Eco-Conscious Projects - CM CR 600

The CM CR 600 is a compact, efficient electric jaw crusher perfect for small to medium eco-conscious projects. Lightweight and portable, it’s easy to transport and set up, ideal for tight spaces or limited-access areas. Designed to process concrete, bricks, asphalt, and stone into reusable aggregates, it minimizes waste and cuts disposal costs. For sustainable, versatile construction solutions, the CM CR 600 is a game-changer.

• Static crusher powered by a 380V electric motor.
• Quieter and environmentally friendly, ideal for urban construction projects.
• Throughput of 6–44 tph.

6. Best for High-Performance and Versatility - Barford 750J

The Barford 750J is a compact, powerful mobile jaw crusher designed for efficiency and performance. Powered by a durable diesel engine, it’s easy to operate and highly mobile, perfect for tight or challenging sites. Suitable for crushing concrete, asphalt, demolition waste, and natural stone, the 750J combines impressive power with versatility. Ideal for contractors, it processes tough materials efficiently, keeping costs low while delivering reliable performance on any project.

• Save money on fuel: diesel-electric hybrid with dual power options.
• Handles a range of materials, from concrete to rock, with up to 150 tph.
• Suitable for both small and large projects.

7. Best for Recycling Construction and Demolition Waste On Small Projects - RubbleCrusher RCJ65T

The RubbleCrusher RCJ65T is an innovative and highly portable crusher designed specifically for small to medium-sized construction and demolition projects. Its efficiency and reliability allow operators to process materials directly on-site, reducing waste and cutting down hauling costs.

This crusher is particularly suited for processing materials such as concrete, brick and small qualities of cold asphalt, turning them into reusable aggregates. Whether you're tackling demolition waste or creating high-quality materials for reuse, the RCJ65T offers a practical, solution-oriented approach to managing site-generated debris. It’s an ideal choice for contractors looking to minimize their environmental impact while maximizing cost savings.

• Tough, tracked machine designed for on-site recycling.
• Features an overband magnet for metal extraction and anti-clogging systems.
• Perfect for demanding projects like asphalt crushing.

Add a screener to your set-up

Want to upgrade your operations and start making more money from your material? Add a screening plant to your set-up and start making DOT approved material. Check out some screening plant set-ups here.

How to Decide on the Right Crusher for Your Business

Choosing the best compact crusher comes down to carefully assessing your business needs and project requirements. Consider factors like material type, job site location, throughput demands, and power source preferences.

The decision to purchase or rent or buy a crusher is a heftyinvestment with many considerations, especiallyfor robust machinery like a crusher. Whether the crusher will be used for working in the mining, construction, or waste industries, there are many factors to consider. At this time, you may think owning a crusher enables efficient material processing but can be costly. Renting a crusher machine may have limitations, but it saves money. This in fact is not the case. In this blog, we will look at several factors, including pros & cons, project durations, cost considerations, maintenance, operational flexibility and expert advice to aid you in making your final decision—should I buy or lease a crusher?

The Role of a Crusher in Your Operations

A crusher is a powerful device that reduces large chunksof material into handy, tinychunks. Construction, mining, and recycling industriesextensivelyuse crushers tosmash raw materials efficiently. ​ Mobile crushers are used extensively in construction, mining, and recycling operations to process raw materials economically. The need for crushers is significantly growing and is forecasted to grow by 5.1% in market size from to . The market is driven primarily by the increasing demand for construction and mining activities, which require efficient materials handling and processing systems. In addition, the market for recycling crushers is expected to grow. Growing environmental awareness and stringent waste management laws are boosting the demand or recycling crushers, pushing the market growth. These key factors drive the decision to rent or buy a crusher all the more competitive.

Types of Crushers to Rent or Buy

Jaw Crushers

• Ideallysuitable for primary crushing, for tough and hardmaterial.

Impact Crushers:

• Suitable for soft to medium-hard materials, generally used for recycling applications.

Cone Crushers:

• Suitable for secondary and tertiary crushing, providing fine material.

Gyratory Crushers:

• Generally used in large-scale mining applications.

Understanding your personal crushing needs will allow you to determineifyoushouldpurchase a machine or leaseone. If you are unsure of what type of crusher you should select to buy or rent, visit our blog; on each type of crusher, check out our blog:The 6 Major Types of Crushers for more information.

Key Factors to Consider When Deciding to Rent or Buy a Crusher

1. Project Duration

• If your project is relatively short-term (a few months), perhaps leasing a crusher would be most appropriate.
• Longer projects (over a year) might make it worthwhile to buy a crusher to avoid renting in the long run.

2. Cost Factors

• Investment: Purchasing a crusher involves a significant initial investment, while renting amortizes the cost.
• Operational Costs: Being a crusher owner, you must include maintenance, repairs, fuel, and operator costs. Maintenance is typically part of rental agreements, which eliminates surprise costs.

3. Maintenance and Repairs

• The ownership has the drawback of regular maintenance, which is costly.
• Renting removes maintenance problems from your shoulders as it typically falls on the rent company.
• Some companies, such as Protrack, offer maintenance and repair packages with the purchase or rent of their crushers.

4. Workload and Utilization

• If your company frequently uses a crusher, then purchasing is an option.
• If the usage is seasonal or periodic, renting is flexible without the weight of a valuable asset.

5. Flexibility and Availability of Equipment

• Renting offers the flexibility of using different kinds of crushers for different projects.
• Owning limits you to one kind of crusher unless you own several machines.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Purchasing a Crusher

Advantages:

• ✅ Economical in the Long Run: If frequently used, having a crusher is economical in the long run because it saves money on rentals in the long run.
• ✅ Asset Ownership: The equipment is now your business’s asset, contributing to business value.
• ✅ Unlimited Usage: You are not tied by rental time or availability issues.

Disadvantages:

• ❌ High Initial Cost: Huge capital investment.
• ❌ Maintenance and Repairs: Entire repair and maintenance costs are your responsibility.
• ❌ Limited Flexibility: If your project changes, your equipment may not be flexible.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Renting a Crusher

Advantages:

• ✅ Reduced Upfront Cost: No massive upfront expenditure.
• ✅ Maintenance Included: Service and maintenance are normally included in rental agreements.
• ✅ Flexibility: Easy switching between various crushers based on project needs.

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Costly in the Long Run: Long-term rentals can be more expensive than purchasing.
• ❌ Limited Supply: You’re dependent on the rental firm’s availability and stock.
• ❌ No Asset Build-Up: Renting does not contribute to company assets or equity.

When to Buy a Crusher?

You should purchase a crusher instead of renting if:

• You have continuous crushing projects with large material volumes.
• You want to reduce long-term operation costs.
• Your company has the capital to invest in machinery.
• You prefer to have full control of your equipment without rental restrictions.

When to Rent a Crusher?

Renting is a better choice than buying if:

• Your project is short-term or temporary.
• You have various crushers to apply on various projects.
• Your company is looking to save capital for future investment.
• Convenience in terms of bundled maintenance resonates with you.

Other Costs to Consider When Renting or Buying a Crusher

Whether you purchase or rent, there are some hidden costs you might want to consider:

• Transportation Fees: Moving the crusher to and from sites may be costly.
• Permit and Licenses Charges: Compliance with local regulations may mean permits.
• Operator Training: Your operators will need training to operate the crusher properly.
  Companies such as Protrack strive to include training in partnerships.

Professional Tips to Aid in the Decision to Rent or Buy a Crusher

• Examine Your Business Model: Define your chain of projects and how often you need a crusher.
• Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Include purchase cost, maintenance, fuel, and operating costs.
• Compare Rental vs. Purchase Quotes: Ask crusher suppliers for detailed breakdowns of costs.
• Evaluate Resale Value: During a purchase, consider the depreciation and resale value of the machine.
• Negotiate Rental Terms: When renting or buying a crusher, there is room for negotiation. Don’t just think price, bargain on delivery terms and maintenance offers.
• Contact a Professional: Contact Protrack to speak with a heavy equipment specialist to understand your needs better.

Last Word: Does Renting or Buying a Crusher Works Best for Your Business? Renting or Buying a Crusher?

Investing in a crusher is a major decision for construction, mining, and recycling businesses. However, the next critical step is optimizing its usage beyond buying or renting a crusher. Feel free to contact us today to discuss what is best for you.

ProTrack is a state-of-the-art equipment tracking and management solution designed to enhance heavy equipment’s productivity, efficiency, and lifespan. With ProTrack on your crusher, you enjoy more detailed performance data, usage patterns, and maintenance needs.

How ProTrack Enhances Crusher Operations

Real-Time Performance Monitoring
You can monitor your crusher’s operation in real-time with ProTrack, monitoring key metrics like throughput, energy consumption, and downtime. You can then optimize performance and catch inefficiencies early.

Predictive Maintenance Alerts
Due to high wear and tear, crushers are prone to frequent breakdowns, hence the need for regular maintenance. ProTrack provides predictive maintenance alerts, alerting you before a breakdown occurs. This reduces unplanned downtime and costly repairs.

Usage Optimization
When leasing a crusher, ProTrack guarantees you are making the most out of it. Using workload trends for analysis will enable you to make an informed decision on whether leasing is still feasible or if purchasing is where you should head.

Monitoring Fuel and Energy Efficiency
Crushers are power-consuming. ProTrack enables firms to monitor fuel consumption and optimize efficiency, reducing the operation cost and enhancing sustainability.

Fleet Management Integration
ProTrack allows seamless integration into a centralized fleet management system if you have multiple heavy equipment. You can track multiple machines, schedule maintenance, and monitor work locations more effectively.

Final Thought: The Smart Way to Keep Your Crusher Investment Running

Whether you lease or own a fleet of crushers, Protrack assures you the best return on investment. With cutting-edge tracking, performance information, and predictive maintenance, your operations are more effective, cost-friendly, and reliable.

FAQs

How much does a crusher cost to buy?
The cost of a crusher can range from $50,000 to over $500,000, depending on type and size.

Is it more expensive to rent or buy a crusher?
Renting is more expensive in the long term if utilized heavily. However, for short-term use, renting is more economical.

What are some considerations I should keep in mind when buying a crusher?
Project life, budget, maintenance, utilization factor, and equipment flexibility.

Are there tax benefits to buying a crusher?
Yes, purchased equipment may qualify for tax write-offs and depreciation incentives. Consult your accountant.

Can I lease or rent a crusher instead of buying or renting?
Yes, leasing provides a compromise with fixed payments and future ownership opportunities.