The bigger the backhoe, the more work it can do. A full sized TLB like that Deere unit weighs maybe 15,000 lbs, has 100 horsepower or more and has a 14-16 ft. BH. The 4400 with a 9 ft. BH will be less than half that size. Generalizing is not always wise, but it seems once you get up to a 9ft or larger hoe, there is enough reach, digging power and iron that you can effectively tackle more serious projects (i.e.roots, larger rocks, hardpan and the like... way more than just digging in soft dirt).
Now obviously, a 9ft BH is not going to toss a 600 lb boulder around like the 14 footer. But it will handle it. And of course, the skill of the operator makes a big difference, even on a larger machine.
So it kind of depends on what you need it for. If you plan to use it commercially, it's not for you. But if you need to do work around your own place from time to time, like excavating trenches and footers, removing stumps, laying culvert, removing rocks, making and maintaining ditches, and other miscellaneous chores, you'll conclude it's not a waste of your time. Most backhoe owners do not regret their purchase, but you'll have to decide if you have enough work to justify it.
