ToroWhen you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. Leaf blowers have powerful motors that require minimal effort to operate and allow you to clean up your yard or driveway in a fraction of the time that it would take if using a rake or broom.
Blowers use concentrated air streams to move leaves, grass clippings, or other lawn debris. This makes them especially useful when it comes to fall yard cleanup. They allow you to quickly and efficiently gather fallen leaves that will otherwise create a wet, heavy covering on your grass during the winter, promoting fungal growth and preventing your grass from breathing properly.
The two most common types of leaf blowers are handheld and backpack models and are powered by either gas or electricity. An electric leaf blower is either plugged in (corded) or runs on a battery (cordless). They all have their advantages and disadvantages, as well as environmental and health impacts.
For a full breakdown of the difference between these types of leaf blowers and how to know which is best for your needs, check out our FAQ section. After testing several leaf blowers, researching dozens more online, and consulting with a local expert, I chose the Toro 51621 UltraPlus as my top pick. You can learn more about my research and testing methodology below, as well as the criteria that I used to evaluate my picks.
Whether you’re looking for the portability to wrangle acres of leaves, the power to dislodge wet debris piles, or just some help clearing off the patio once in a while, you should find an option for you. Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches home products. The best leaf blowers in 2022Best leaf blower overall: Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower, $99 on AmazonThe versatile Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower packs a blower, vacuum, and leaf mulcher into one ultra-functional tool.
Best leaf blower on a budget: Toro 51624 PowerJet F700 Handheld Leaf Blower, $79 on The Home DepotDespite the ultra-low price tag, the Toro 51624 PowerJet F700 Handheld Leaf Blower has a super-powered motor and durable construction. It performs just as well as the higher-end models. Best light-duty leaf blower: Greenworks 2400702 24V Leaf Blower, $74.
67 on AmazonThe battery-powered Ego Power+ LB6504 Cordless Leaf Blower packs power and portability into a compact, easy-to-use package without fumes or messy fuel tanks. Best battery-powered leaf blower: Ego Power+ LB6504 Cordless Leaf Blower, $249 on Lowe’sThe push-button start, light weight, and hassle-free operation of the Greenworks 2400702 24V Leaf Blower make it a great choice for small jobs you want done quickly. Best backpack leaf blower: Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower, $329 on Lowe’sThe gas-powered Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower is designed for power, comfort, and easy operation, making it great for tackling large-scale projects.
Best leaf blower overallHome DepotThe versatile Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower packs a blower, vacuum, and leaf mulcher into one ultra-functional tool. Power: Corded electricityWeight: 8. 9 poundsAir volume: 350 CFMAir speed: 250 MPHNoise level: 68 dB(A)Pros: Oversized handle allows for a variety of grip positions, built-in cord lock, storage bag for accessories and attachmentsCons: Relatively loud, wet leaves can clog the machineIn my experience, the more bells and whistles a product advertises, the less effective its primary function ends up being.
Luckily, this is not the case with the Toro 51621 UltraPlus leaf blower. Even with the addition of a powerful vacuum and mulcher, it’s still a lightweight blower capable of generating impressive air speeds. The UltraPlus’s powerful vacuum is one of the major reasons it’s my top pick.
It features a 12-amp motor that can suck in leaves and debris at an impressive 410 CFM. A heavy-duty metal impeller reduces them by 88%. Metal impeller blades will stay sharper longer than plastic and are less likely to chip and crack.
This durability puts less stress on the motor, maximizing efficiency and extending the lifespan of the blower itself. The Toro 51621 UltraPlus produces about the same amount of noise as a vacuum cleaner, a feature that your neighbors are sure to appreciate. The vacuum capability of the UltraPlus isn’t just for sucking up your finished pile of leaves after you’re done blowing.
It also comes in handy for properties that have landscaping features like bushes, fences, or boulders. Leaves tend to get trapped against these obstacles, and regular blowers can have trouble getting them out. By switching the machine to vacuum mode, you can simply walk around and suck up these troublemakers, then get back to blowing the rest of the yard.
It’s worth noting that you’ll have to physically remove the narrow blower tube and attach the wider vacuum tube when switching functions. This is a fairly simple process, though. A convenient zippered vacuum bag keeps your mulched debris contained until you’re ready to dispose of it, eliminating that awkward step of scooping a leaf pile into a trash bag.
One of my favorite characteristics of the Toro 51621 UltraPlus is how environmentally friendly it is. Its corded power source results in fewer emissions than gas machines. Also, you can use the mulched leaves as fertilizer for your garden or your lawn.
Best leaf blower on a budgetToroDespite the ultra-low price tag, the Toro 51624 PowerJet F700 Handheld Leaf Blower has a super-powered motor and durable construction. It performs just as well as the higher-end models. Power: Corded electricityWeight: 6.
6 poundsAir volume: 725 CFMAir speed: 140 MPHNoise: 70 dB(A)Pros: Powerful output, lightweight, very affordableCons: Extension cord must be purchased separately, not ideal for large properties If you don’t have the budget for a high-end machine, the low-priced Toro PowerJet F700 delivers an impressive amount of power in a small package. Yahoodain recommended this model, citing its 750 CFM airflow, one of the highest on the market. It’s perfect for large piles of wet, heavy leaves.
The lightweight design of the PowerJet makes it comfortable to use one-handed. You can use the adjustment dial to customize the power setting for use around delicate landscaping. The wide range of power is a big part of what makes it such a popular and effective model.
The compact size of the F700 also makes it convenient to store when not in use. A handy little keyhole cut-out on the bottom makes it easy to hang up on a nail or hook in your garage or tool shed. This makes the Toro ideal for users who don’t have room for larger models.
However, the impressive power and unlimited runtime of the Toro PowerJet F700 come at the cost of portability. That being said, if you’re working in a relatively small area and need extra power, this could be a perfect option. Best battery-powered leaf blowerEgoThe battery-powered Ego Power+ LB6504 Cordless Leaf Blower packs power and portability into a compact, easy-to-use package without fumes or messy fuel tanks.
Power: BatteryWeight: 12. 9 poundsAir volume: 650 CFMAir speed: 180 MPHNoise level: 65 dB(A)Pros: Brushless motor, cruise control, high power outputCons: Heavier than similar blowersIf you’re looking for maximum power and portability, the Ego Power+ LB6504 could be the perfect fit. This battery-powered blower should be able to easily power through most residential chores.
Should you encounter any heavy, wet, or unruly debris, you can hit the turbo button for a temporary boost of air. The variable speed trigger of the Ego LB6504 also makes it easy to dial in the precise level of power you’re looking for, and thanks to the cruise-control button, you can lock in that speed for as long as you like. This feature would be really handy for tasks that require minimal power when you don’t feel like maintaining trigger pressure the whole time.
I also appreciate the flat bottom design of this blower, which keeps it from rolling over. By reducing the chances of it tipping over and getting scratched or chipped, it can extend the lifespan of the machine. Although you are limited by the running time of any battery-powered blower, the Ego’s powerful 5.
0Ah 56 V lithium battery provides roughly 75 minutes of running time per charge. That should be enough time for most lawns. The brushless motor of the Ego LB6504 is another valuable feature.
I recommend always going with brushless tools if you have the choice. Considering how much value they add in terms of efficiency and increased lifespan, it can be worth the extra upfront cost. Ego is one of the more varied outdoor tool brands out there right now, and if you’re thinking of starting a collection, they’re a great brand to go with.
Once you have more than one, you can mix and match batteries and cut down on time spent waiting for them to charge. The impressive power and run time of the Ego LB6504 make it relatively heavy. If you’re fine with a couple of extra pounds, this blower is a great option.
Best light-duty leaf blowerGreenworksThe push-button start, light weight, and hassle-free operation of the Greenworks 2400702 24V Leaf Blower make it a great choice for small jobs you want done quickly. Power: BatteryWeight: 4. 4 poundsAir volume: 330 CFMAir speed: 100 MPHNoise: 65 dB(A)Pros: Battery motor starts up instantly, lightweight, low priceCons: Limited runtime, not powerful enough for heavy-duty usePowered by a 24-volt ion battery, the Greenworks 2400702 24V Leaf Blower is a great option for those who may not need the raw power of gas-powered or corded models and want the freedom to roam without worrying about wrangling extension cords.
Capable of generating 330 CFM, the Greenworks 2400702 is great for smaller maintenance jobs like clearing leaves from your patio, air drying a newly washed car, or blasting grass clippings off the driveway. It’s also incredibly easy to use. There’s no power button to switch it on; you simply squeeze the trigger to activate it.
Even though it doesn’t have the power of other blowers, I preferred the Greenworks for quick, light-duty jobs, simply because of its hassle-free startup. Weighing about as much as a 2-liter soda bottle, the Greenworks requires minimal effort to maneuver. The variable speed trigger makes it easy to adjust the air speed.
My biggest takeaway from using this blower is how little effort it takes to operate and how much I appreciated not being a sweaty mess after using it. The biggest drawback to the Greenworks 2400702 is its relatively short runtime. A fully charged battery will last about 10 minutes, so it wouldn’t be suitable for larger properties.
You can use their batteries as backups if you own other Greenworks power tools since they’re all universal. Greenworks is a great brand for tools in general. They’re consistently a very popular choice with homeowners and offer a wide variety of products to choose from.
Best backpack leaf blowerHusqvarnaThe gas-powered Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower is designed for power, comfort, and easy operation, making it great for tackling large-scale projects. Power: GasWeight: 22. 5 poundsAir volume: 692 CFMAir speed: 251 MPHNoise: 72 dB(A)Pros: Great value, comfortable enough for extended use, long running timeCons: Not as maneuverable as handheld blowers, not for left-handed usersEven though the Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower is considered a mid-size commercial model in terms of power, its smaller size and lower price point make it ideal for residential use.
If you don’t need gale-force power but still want the portability and comfort needed to clear large yards and fields, it’s a great choice. Dedrick highly recommends this model for homeowners and said, “all of their products that I have used are borderline professional grade, but they are also priced affordably and they last. “The Husqvarna 150BT weighs much more than a handheld blower but is still relatively lightweight for a backpack model.
Its shoulder harness distributes the unit’s weight evenly across the shoulders, and I found its sturdy, balanced feel to be more comfortable than expected. When testing, this secure fit also made it easier to accomplish other yard work tasks that require two hands, like clearing branches out of the way, moving around trash cans, or climbing up a ladder. I also found the ergonomic joystick of the Husqvarna 150BT to be comfortable to use and simple to understand.
Plus, the cruise control setting made it easy to lock in whatever setting I liked, thanks to the throttle adjuster. In addition to meeting California’s emissions standards, the 2. 15 horsepower X-Torq engine reduces fuel consumption by 20%, which allows you to roam longer before needing to refuel.
Assembling the Husqvarna 150BT out of the box took only a few minutes. Since it included the necessary wrench, I didn’t need to go hunting through my toolbox. Starting it up was a breeze too.
After filling the fuel tank, I followed the instructions printed on the side of the machine, and it fired up after a couple pulls of the handle. The Husqvarna 150BT is still the loudest option on our list, though not by much. To protect yourself from potential hearing damage, you’ll need to purchase ear protection to wear while operating the blower.
The $330 price tag is fairly high, but considering Husqvarna’s reputation for quality and performance, not entirely unreasonable. What else we consideredEcho PB-2520: We decided that handheld gas-powered blowers weren’t practical for the average homeowner, especially considering the potential issues with gas-powered machines in the future. But if you have a yard or area large enough to necessitate a gas-powered blower, this could work for you.
Husqvarna 350BT: Even though we’re big fans of Husqvarna blowers, this commercial-grade option was just a little too powerful. It was much louder than the residential-grade Husqvarna 150BT that we chose instead. If you’d benefit from the commercial-style features of the 350BT — like a more effective air filter and anti-vibration technology that makes it more comfortable for extended jobs — it could be a good choice.
Dedrick has used this model for five years with no issues, and his friend who uses it for tree work praises it as well. Worx WG520 Turbine: Even though this Worx blower is an affordable and popular choice for those with a tight budget, we ultimately chose the Toro PowerJet F700, which has a higher air volume and speed and runs a little bit quieter. However, if the Toro is unavailable, or you’re just a big fan of Worx products, this blower is still a great choice.
Ryobi 40V Brushless 550 CFM Blower: We’re big fans of Ryobi products like this blower. As part of the “whisper-series” (only 59 dB(A)), it is ideal for those whose main priority is quiet operation. Dedrick praised its powerful output, explaining that “it has quite a lot of power for its compact size, and is more than enough for the average homeowner.
” At $200, it’s at the top of the price spectrum though. Worx 135 MPH 12 Amp: Another corded electric option, this Worx blower is capable of generating an impressive 800 CFM. A variable speed control allows you to dial that power down to your preferred CFM, making it well-suited for a wide range of blowing projects.
At just 6. 6 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight as well. If you’re fine with paying about $50 more than our Toro PowerJet F700, this blower is a high-quality choice.
Leaf blower testing methodologyAmazonI’ve worked as a landscaper at a large state park, a job that required a substantial amount of leaf-blower work with a range of types and brands. In addition to my experience, I sourced and tested several popular leaf blowers when considering options for this list. I also reached out to a local expert for advice and insight.
Nick Yahoodain of Advanced Builders and Contractors has extensive experience using leaf blowers in his business. Douglas Dedrick, founder of Natural Landscape Designs, is a landscaper with over a decade of experience. I used all this testing, research, and experience to put together several criteria to evaluate and compare potential blowers.
I used all this testing, research, and experience to put together several criteria to evaluate and compare potential blowers. Noise level: In addition to the serious health issues associated with prolonged exposure to loud noises, it’s also annoying and uncomfortable. I sourced and compared the dB(A) level of each machine and made sure to exclude any models that were substantially noisier than others without any clear advantages.
Ease of use: An effective leaf blower should be straightforward and convenient to start, operate, and control. I paid special attention to the layout and design of the controls, including power boost and cruise control features, as well as the shape and design of the carrying handle. I also researched user reviews to ensure that there weren’t frequent complaints about the unit being complicated or frustrating to use.
Weight: Even an extra pound or two can make a real difference in how comfortable your blower is to operate. If blower models in the same category were a fairly close match-up in terms of power and usability, I tended to choose the lighter option. Our top picks compared:CriteriaToro 51621 UltraPlusToro 51624 PowerJet F700 Greenworks 2400702 24V Ego Power+ LB6504 CordlessHusqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack BlowerNoise68 dB(A)70 dB(A)65 dB(A)65 dB(A)72 dB(A)Ease of use (1 easy to 3 more difficult)113 (short run time)2 (heavier than other blowers)3 (more difficult to maneuver)Weight8.
9 pounds6. 6 pounds4. 4 pounds12.
9 pounds22. 5 poundsLeaf blower FAQsHusqvarnaShould I buy a gas or electric leaf blower?There are some instances where gas-powered blowers are necessary. For large properties that require a long running time and unlimited range or properties that lack available power outlets, gas-powered models are the most effective solution.
Yahoodain suggested that most homeowners should probably only opt for a gas-powered blower if they need to blow areas over 1/4 acre. Dedrick adds that “handheld gas-powered leaf blowers are heavy, and the vibration they create makes them difficult to use for extended periods of time. ” Battery-powered blowers combine the easy operation of corded blowers with the portability of gas, but their batteries create their own issues.
Dedrick explains that when you go with a battery-powered tool, their batteries won’t be interchangeable between brands. This means that you’ll probably want to stick with the same tool brand, to avoid any battery incompatibility issues. Do I need a cordless leaf blower?As batteries have become more powerful and less bulky, cordless electric leaf blowers have become more commonplace.
These machines are much easier to maintain than their gas-powered competitors and don’t directly produce emissions. They tend to have a shorter runtime, however, making them less than ideal for large-scale projects. Both corded and battery-powered blowers have the advantage of running silent when in idle mode, unlike gas-powered machines that are still fairly loud when idling.
What is the difference between CFM and MPH?CFM (cubic feet per minute) measures the volume of the air that passes through the nozzle of the leaf blower in one minute. “The higher the CFM, the more air the blower will output, allowing you to clear a wider area in less time,” said Yahoodain. Miles per hour (MPH) refers to the speed of the air coming out of the blower.
Yahoodain explains that you can maximize this speed by using different sizes and shapes of nozzles. An open, circular nozzle allows more air to come out at once, while a wider, tapered nozzle will give you more control. How do you use a leaf blower?If you just wander out into the yard and start blowing, you’re probably going to waste time and energy.
Having a strategy in place ensures that you’re working efficiently and won’t waste time covering the same areas over and over. To avoid doubling up on work areas, you need to designate a collection point for your leaves or debris. This is typically the center of the yard, preferably on a large tarp.
If your work area is really big, separate it into sections, each with its own collection point. Beginning at the perimeter, use your blower to push the leaves towards the center of the yard in broad strokes, working your way around the yard. Use low shallow strokes and adjust the power of the blower as you get closer to the center.
Don’t stress over every single leaf. Once your leaves and debris are collected, use the tarp to funnel them into a yard waste bag or use them in a compost pile. How loud are leaf blowers?Leaf blowers are notoriously loud machines and can generate enough noise to cause significant hearing loss over time.
It’s possible to damage your hearing using a leaf blower with a noise rating of 80 decibels and above for two hours, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When operating a leaf blower, it’s a good idea to wear ear protection. Two of our picks, the Husqvarna 350BT and the Worx WG520 Turbine, are over 80 dB(A), so take that into consideration when choosing your blower.
Are leaf blowers bad for the environment?Electric blowers, both corded and battery-powered, don’t directly generate emissions, as gas-powered models do. If an electric blower can meet your needs, there’s no need to choose a gas-powered option. To lessen the harmful effects of your gas-powered blower, always make sure they are rated as CARB-compliant.
The California Air Resources Board regulates outdoor landscaping emissions and rates equipment as CARB-compliant only if their emissions fall below a certain level. Are gas-powered leaf blowers restricted? If you are set on purchasing a gas-powered blower, make sure to check for any restrictions or regulations in your area. Hundreds of cities across the country have passed legislation limiting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.
California has taken the strictest stances against them, with 16 cities that have banned gas-powered blowers altogether. According to CARB, some cities have even introduced trade-in programs to incentivize people to switch to electric lawn care equipment. The District of Columbia instituted a complete ban on gas-powered leaf blowers on January 1, 2022.
The nationwide push towards all-electric lawn equipment doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon, so even if you’re not in an area affected today, that may change in the future. See more great buying guides for your yardAriel Skelley/Getty ImagesThe best riding lawn mowersThe best electric lawn mowersThe best gardening and landscaping toolsThe best snow blowersThe best snow shovelsThe best rakesRead the original article on Insider.
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