Hi guys,
I've had both, currently the 46. The 260 is far more convenient and a more modern design. The subframe stays on the machine. When detached and stored on a cart, it takes up about a 5' x 3' space.
The 46 is a little more capable (stronger and faster) but takes up a huge amount of space when detached, around 10-12' x 4' because the subframe stays with it. It has lousy stabilizer feet in comparison, hence the "turf feet" below.
One other difference is that the 260 uses the tractor seat spun around while the 46 has it's own seat. I find the 46 seat cramped. Using the 260 was comfortable. The 46 also seeps down pretty fast. I got into the habit of lowering the stabilizers back down every 5-10 mins. I don't recall that issue so much on the 260.
I can do some stumping with the 46, around 10-12"oaks. The 260 was nothing but an ankle biter in comparison, maybe good for a 6-8" oak stump. Both are great for yard tasks and honey do's.
For best strength, get the smallest available bucket for either hoe. Then get the biggest bucket for loose mtrls. Thats what I wish I did.
Congrats either way.