In this paper a new hybrid-type control system is proposed which reduces the pump speed of an electro-hydraulic actuator consisting of a pressure-compensated variable displacement piston pump and a valve-controlled hydraulic cylinder, whenever the flow rate demand is low. In order to avoid interfering with the pressure regulator which also has an effect on swash plate angle, the pump speed is changed in proportion to the mean value of the speed component of position commands. Additionally a pressure switch is employed to prevent the system pressure from getting lower than a reference value. Based on computer simulation & experimental results, it is shown that the hybrid control can save the idling power up to 44% at a stand-by mode by reducing the pump speed from 1,800 rpm to 600 rpm without affecting the dynamic response of the electro-hydraulic actuator.