Best Leaf Blowers
This guide to cheap leaf blowers recommends the best electric leaf blowers, gas leaf blowers, and cordless leaf blowers under $150, plus a more expensive backpack leaf blower, based on leaf blower reviews by experts who've tested the products and consumers who've purchased them.
What We Considered
In researching and comparing leaf blowers, we went beyond the specs and dove into online reviews of each machine from expert sources such as Wirecutter, Consumer Reports, and Popular Mechanics, all of which conduct product testing, as well as current or past owners posting firsthand accounts of their experiences with cheap leaf blowers.
We Looked At
Manufacturers cite a few different specifications as indicators of a leaf blower's power. These include the size of the gas engine or electric motor, of course, but also the velocity and volume of air the machine expels, measured in miles per hour and cubic feet per minute, respectively. In general, the higher the numbers, the better. However, air speed and volume don't always directly translate to effectiveness, according to testing by Popular Mechanics, and there are other factors, such as tube and nozzle design, that play into "real world" efficiency.
Many leaf blowers, including three of the electric models we researched, are three-in-one machines that vacuum and mulch in addition to blowing leaves. In vacuum/mulch mode, the debris is suctioned through a fan-like impeller and collected in a bag with a shoulder strap, or pushed out through a hose leading to a collection bin. The shredded organic material can be used as natural mulch around the yard. Most blower vacs come with additional components, such as a dedicated vacuum tube with a large, round opening better suited to the task than a flatter nozzle designed for blowing alone. Vacuuming/mulching capability is comparatively rare among inexpensive gas leaf blowers, and we found no widely available gas blowers with those capabilities worth recommending in this guide.
Cheap blower vacs generally feature a mulching ratio of at least 10:1, which means a pass through the impeller reduces 10 bushels of leaves to one bushel of mulch. Vacuum bags tend to hold up to 1.5 bushels, and the higher the mulching ratio, the less often the bag must be emptied. It's important to note, however, that leaf blower reviews routinely express skepticism at these statistics based on the amount of mulch they see the machines actually churn out.
The primary goal of using a leaf blower instead of a rake is to make wrangling leaves less physically demanding. That makes electric leaf blowers an appealing choice for many consumers, given that they start with the simple flick of a switch and are generally lighter than their gas counterparts, even before factoring in the weight of a full fuel tank. For properties filled with bushes, trees, furniture, and ornamental doodads, reviewers appreciate and generally prefer the power of a gas engine, along with the freedom to roam widely. Although gas-powered machines require more upkeep, consumers rarely complain about these demands in reviews. One thing to consider is the strain a handheld unit can put on the arm during long periods of use. Buyers with very large yards may want to consider a relatively inexpensive backpack leaf blower instead.
Our Picks
Toro 51619 Ultra Review
All in all, users are sold on the electric Toro 51619 Ultra, a solid, versatile option for anyone who doesn't mind a corded leaf blower. They judge it an easy-to-use blower, mulcher, and lawn vacuum that performs all its functions reasonably well at a price that's hard to beat.
Ample power for clearing most leaf-filled yards, especially for the money, according to owners and expert testers.
Efficient mulcher, which some users attribute to the metal impeller — an advantage over models with less durable plastic impellers.
Easy, tool-free conversion among blowing, vacuuming, and mulching modes.
Variable speed lets users choose the force to suit the job: low for light work around plantings and high for heavier targets like wet leaves.
Cord lock and extension cord storage hook.
More than 4 out of 5 stars from more than 1,500 reviewers on Amazon.
4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 2,300 reviewers on the Home Depot website.
Wirecutter favors the lighter-weight Black & Decker BV6600 (our pick for a good corded electric leaf blower) over this model.
Nozzles can be tedious to switch out, testers say, and the vacuum handle and speed control are inconvenient.
Vacuum bag isn't the most durable; the zipper is prone to splitting, users say.
Ryobi P2180 Review
Although most users say budget-priced battery-powered leaf blowers just can't compare with higher-end models on power, the Ryobi P2180 comes close. Reviewers say it's a smart buy for homeowners tackling relatively quick jobs who won't have to stop for a recharge.
Battery power combines the cordless convenience of gas with the maintenance-free operation of an electric model.
More powerful than users expect; effective for most light- or medium-duty chores.
Lighter and quieter than many other leaf blowers.
4.6 out of 5 stars and recommended by 93 percent of the more than 2,600 customers who have reviewed it on the Home Depot website.
Users say the 15- to 20-minute battery life is too short for some jobs.
May lack sufficient power for tougher duties, like loosening stubborn wet leaves.
Hitachi RB24EAP Review
Buy on $149.95 $149.95
Available at Lowe's
A gas leaf blower that starts without fuss, meets performance expectations, and sells at a very budget-friendly price, the Hitachi RB24EAP deserves a top spot on our list of the best cheap leaf blowers. Happy users say it packs a lot of power in a lightweight package.
Very easy start compared with many other gas blowers, users report.
Powerful enough for most cleanup tasks, including blasting away stubborn leaves and debris on the roof.
Lightweight for a gas blower, at 8.6 pounds.
7-year warranty, among the longest out there.
Labeled "Best Value" among eight gas models tested by Popular Mechanics.
4.5 out of 5 stars and recommended by 95 percent of the nearly 1,800 customers who have reviewed it on the Lowe's website.
4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 2,500 reviewers on Amazon.
Shorter nozzle means the airstream is a bit less effective than it could be, experts say.
Side intake may try to suck in lightweight clothing, reviewers complain.
Black & Decker BV6600 Review
Buy on $95.91 $95.91
Available at Walmart
The Black & Decker BV6600 is equally capable in an open yard or fussy flower beds, and scores of fans say it produces nicely shredded mulch. This corded electric model also has variable speeds and a durable metal impeller, features that users appreciate.
Performs well in all modes, reviewers say.
Included nozzle reducer helps remove leaves and other debris from tight spots with more precision.
Well-balanced in the hand, expert testers say.
Easy, tool-free conversion among blowing, vacuuming, and mulching modes.
Relatively lightweight, at 8.1 pounds.
Runner-up in testing by Wirecutter.
Bag can be prone to ripping or splitting, users report.
Older models were recalled in September 2016 because of a potential fan-related laceration hazard, which is fixed on new models.
Husqvarna 125B Review
With power on its side, the Husqvarna 125B is a good pick for clearing significant yard debris without spending a lot of money. An apparent sensitivity to ethanol and a slightly higher price tag than the Hitachi RB24EAP keep it from our top spot.
Praise from users and expert testers for focused power when loosening grass clippings, leaves, small sticks, dirt, and dust.
Relatively lightweight for a gas leaf blower, at 9.4 pounds.
Well-balanced and easy to maneuver; the blower tube aligns with the handle.
Easy to start compared with some gas blowers, users say.
Cruise control and adjustable tube length.
Easiest to use in testing by Popular Mechanics.
Some users report durability issues such as gas lines that clog easily.
Not as quiet as electric blowers, but about average for a gas blower.
Relatively quiet for a cordless leaf blower.
Weighs less than 6 pounds, fairly lightweight for its class.
Good for small yards or light housework, owners say.
Less powerful than other cordless models.
Roller switch that controls power level is hard to adjust, some reviewers say.
Scattered complaints that vacuum tube clogs on thick debris.
Other Products We Reviewed
Worx Trivac WG500 Review
Worx Trivac WG500 reviews highlight two main points: the machine's ability to quickly convert between a leaf blower and a vacuum/mulcher and the power of the motor for both blowing and vacuuming. Overall, the Trivac WG500 (starting at $88
One feature reviewers would have liked to see is a metal impeller, although that's hard to find on an inexpensive leaf blower and adds weight to the machine. A newer model, the Worx Trivac WG505 (starting at $90), does have a metal impeller, but it’s not as widely available and had few reviews at the time of writing. Worx backs its products with a three-year warranty (don't forget to register online), and one consumer who reviewed the Worx Trivac WG500 on Amazon had no trouble making a claim when the plastic impeller chipped. Otherwise the Trivac WG500 compares favorably to the other electric leaf blowers we researched. Its ability to easily switch to vacuum-and-mulcher mode is highlighted in many consumer reviews at Ace Hardware and elsewhere. The 10:1 mulch ratio is standard for a cheap model and ensures that 15 bushels of leaves will fit in the 1.5-bushel collection bag. The motor emits only 63 decibels, one of the lowest levels we encountered in our research. The Worx Trivac WG500 does weigh 8.4 pounds, more than some gas blowers and almost a pound more than the best cheap electric leaf blower we found. The 12-amp motor can push up to 350 cubic feet of air per minute at a velocity of up to 210 mph. It does not have variable speed, but an airflow regulator promises some control over the blower speed.
Although they aren't the majority, many reviewers have had trouble with the Trivac WG500. A somewhat common problem is the collection bag -- the zipper breaks or the bag tears. One reviewer reports on the Home Depot website that the bag "exploded" the third time he used it. Less common complaints concern broken shoulder straps and the length of the tube. Some consumers would appreciate an attachment for taller users or for sucking up debris from small, hard-to-reach crevices.
The mix of positive and negative Trivac WG500 reviews is what leaves this electric leaf blower in the "good" category. The durability of the bag seems to be a weak point. The machine also weighs a pound more than some of its electric competitors and the starting price is 20 percent higher than that of our top pick. Still, users are generally satisfied, and there are a number of repeat buyers. Time will tell whether the new Worx Trivac WG505 improves on an already good option.
For a gas blower, the Weed Eater FB25 (starting at $80
Many consumers note in Weed Eater FB25 reviews at Lowe's that they bought a new FB25 to replace an older one that either wore out or just got too old. One put the old FB25 in a garage sale after 12 years and bought the same model again. Still, there are reports of it sparking or simply stopping after a season or two.
The Weed Eater FB25 has a 25 cc, two-cycle engine and a variable speed throttle. At 290 CFM and 170 mph, this blower is fairly powerful, although not overly so. Some suggest that if you have huge piles of leaves to blow, a higher CFM might be in order, as this machine does not blow out a large volume of air. Users find that it starts easily -- within three or four pulls, according to Weed Eater FB25 reviews. The air intake is on the bottom, which should minimize pulling on clothing. Its emission levels are not CARB compliant, so it cannot be sold in California. At maximum speed, the Weed Eater FB25 runs at just about 70 decibels, which is not noisy for a gas blower but definitely requires ear protection. Overall this blower seems to have what it takes to handle most household chores for a very decent price.
Ryobi RY09056 Review
This inexpensive gas-powered blower vac is a relatively rare breed that does well on some fronts, but Ryobi RY09056 reviews suggest that consumers should pass it over and choose a better performer. Some of the machine's specifications also don't hold up against the competition. At 9.5 pounds, the Ryobi RY09056 (starting at $99) is heavier than many of the machines we reviewed. It weighs about a pound or a pound and a half more than our recommended gas blowers. The volume of air pushed out the nozzle is relatively high, at 400 cubic feet per minute, but the speed is the lowest of any blower we researched, at only 150 mph. On the plus side, the two-cycle, 26cc engine is the largest in our lineup and the Ryobi RY09056 has a variable speed throttle. The motor complies with emission standards set by the California Air Resources Board and emits only 70.2 decibels from 50 feet away -- not bad for a gas blower. The mulching ratio is 12:1, although not many users report using the vacuum/mulch function with this particular leaf blower (the capability is far more common among electrics).
The Ryobi RY09056 is sold exclusively at Home Depot, where positive reviews cheer the leaf blower for starting right up, with just one or two pulls, and being easy to use. Overall the reviews aren't especially positive, however. At the time of writing, the product was rated 3.6 out of 5 stars, with recommendations from only about 70 percent of reviewers. Many other leaf blowers have 4- to 5-star ratings and recommendation rates in the high-80-to-mid-90 percent range.
What do the negative reviews say? Many report that the blower isn't very durable and simply stopped working within a year or two. One owner reports that his leaf blower broke down six weeks after purchase. This reviewer, an engineer, used the factory oil and added a little extra lubricant, but because the aluminum piston was scored (a typical result of not using enough oil), the three-year limited warranty was voided. The juicy bit of the review: Employees of the Ryobi dealer and Home Depot store he visited were aware of the issue and said it's fairly common. Other reviewers have had different durability-related problems, such as the nozzle falling off the base, the engine and housing separating after just a few uses, and the bag attachment coming loose during use. These are the same complaints we saw with the previous model, the Ryobi RY09055, which likewise failed to earn our recommendation.
If it weren't for the questionable durability of the Ryobi RY09056, this would have been a decent choice for consumers. But after reading a number of negative reviews, it's clear there are better options out there that cost no more money than this leaf blower.
Worx WG509 TriVac Review
The ease with which the Worx WG509 TriVac (starting at $97) can switch between leaf blowing and vacuuming earns ample praise from Amazon reviewers, who say being able to flip a simple lever makes yard cleanup much more convenient. Vacuuming and mulching get equally strong marks, with users claiming that the mulcher shreds leaves quickly and reliably -- though many are skeptical that they get anything close to the stated 18:1 mulching ratio. Owners like the metal impeller, as well, which can suck up twigs or small rocks without jamming. Experts also say the Worx WG509 is reasonably quiet for a leaf blower, though some users still complain about noise, particularly in vacuum mode.
Among the complaints against the Worx WG509, some consumers say the blower feels a little underpowered, especially compared with gas-powered units, and they recommend sticking to lighter use on hard or smooth surfaces. This is borne out in expert tests that give the Worx WG509 higher marks for vacuuming than moving leaves. Some users say the angled blower tube is too short to effectively direct the air. The bag also fills too quickly and splits too easily, according to several reviews.
The Worx WG509 weighs 9.3 pounds, has a 210 mph maximum air speed and a maximum velocity of 350 cubic feet per minute. The claimed mulching ratio of 18:1 is impressive for a model so inexpensive. The much-admired metal impeller has a shredder blade and variable speed control. A 1.2-bushel vacuum bag is included. While the noise level is listed on HomeDepot.com as 50 decibels, and some consumer product testers found that the Worx WG509 did not exceed a 65-decibel threshold from 50 feet away, representatives at the company say 71 decibels is a more accurate measure. Consumers expecting a relatively quiet machine might be in for a surprise -- don't scrimp on the earplugs. This blower comes with a three-year warranty.
The Worx WG509 TriVac should satisfy those who need an easy-to-use, inexpensive all-in-one blower, vacuum, and mulcher, although some reviewers are underwhelmed by its power. For that reason, it falls short of being our pick for best electric leaf blower.
Black & Decker LSW20 Review
The Black & Decker LSW20 (starting at $70) is designed to clear leaves and other lawn debris from hard surfaces such as patios, decks, garage floors, and driveways. Most reviewers on Amazon say it does that with ease, and they love how compact and lightweight it is. The cordless electric design also earns raves from users who love being able to go anywhere without worrying about a power cord or breathing in the fumes generated by a gas-powered blower. Owners say the Black & Decker LSW20 is much quieter than most leaf blowers, agreeing with the manufacturer's claims that it won't bother neighbors even with early-morning use.
Many complaints about the Black & Decker LSW20 center on battery life. While some owners report being able to run the blower for as long as a half-hour, others grumble it lasts only 10 or 15 minutes before needing to be charged for at least a few hours. Some say they simply expected more power from this sweeper, even when refraining from using it out in the yard.
The single-speed Black & Decker LSW20 weighs just 3.7 pounds -- less than half the weight of a typical leaf blower. It has a 120 mph maximum air speed and is powered by a 20-volt lithium-ion battery that can hold a charge for up to 18 months. It also includes a built-in scraper for wet leaves. The noise level is 66 decibels. This leaf blower comes with a limited two-year warranty.
For users who need only a quick blast of air to clear decks and sidewalks of pesky leaves or grass clippings, the Black & Decker LSW20 is easy to use and equal to the task. However, anyone who needs a leaf blower powerful enough to tidy a yard and landscaping should look elsewhere.
Homelite UT09526 Review
While the Homelite UT09526 appears to do its job once it's running, there seems too great a chance that buyers will be stuck with a loud, cranky, hard-to-start engine — or, worse, a dead one. You're better off paying a bit more for a more reliable gas-powered leaf blower.
Powerful enough to clear leaves and other debris from medium-size yards or flowerbeds.
Relatively light for a gas-powered blower, at 9.6 pounds.
Quiet compared with other gas leaf blowers.
Engine can be very tricky to start; many users say they crank it over and over again with little success.
Pervasive durability complaints, including potential carburetor issues.
Husqvarna 130BT Review
Buyers who know they aren't getting a commercial-grade backpack leaf blower should be satisfied with the Husqvarna 130BT. It's an affordable option for homeowners with big yards and mature trees who need a step up in power and comfort from a handheld blower.
Lightweight for a backpack-style gas blower, at 14.5 pounds.
Good expert feedback for harder jobs like moving wet leaves and loosening yard debris embedded in grass.
Powerful enough to tackle yards up to roughly 2 acres, users say.
Padded harness gets good reviews for comfort.
Fuel-efficient engine and reduced emissions.
Cruise control.
Can be tough to start, some users complain.
Some reviewers consider the 29.5 cc engine underpowered, especially compared with other backpack blowers.
Greenworks 24012 Review
Despite its extremely low price, the Greenworks 24012 seems to be an effective leaf blower for small yards and patios. However, buyers who don't already have the proper extension cord may end up paying more for a new cord than for this blower.
Half the weight of some other corded electric blowers, at 4.5 pounds.
Powerful enough to clear patios, garages, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces, as well as small yards.
4-year warranty exceeds industry standard.
Relatively easy to handle, users say.
Cord lock to prevent disconnection.
4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 1,800 reviewers on Amazon.
Users must supply their own power cord.
Some reviewers complain of too much vibration for a comfortable grip.
Worx WG545.1 Review
Buyers who want a cordless blower for clearing hard surfaces will be pleased with the quiet, feather-light Worx WG545.1. The array of attachments make it more versatile than most competing models.
Several attachments not usually included, such as an inflator nozzle, detail brush, and extension hose.
Very lightweight, at 3.5 pounds, making it easy to maneuver even for users with limited strength.
More convenient than a broom for small jobs around the house, reviewers say.
Very quiet compared with other leaf blowers.
More than 4 out of 5 stars in thousands of reviews by Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart customers.
Underpowered for anything more than light-duty jobs such as clearing leaves or dirt from patios and garages, owners warn.
Users say 15- to 20-minute battery life isn't long enough for some bigger jobs.
Sun Joe SBJ604E Review
Sun Joe SBJ604E reviews aren't especially negative, but a middling price and specs, along with a few pounds of extra weight and vibration complaints, don't make a strong enough case for this corded electric leaf blower/vacuum/shredder.
Ample power, especially for an electric blower, reviewers say.
Changes between blowing and vacuuming with the flip of a switch.
Convenient features such as cord lock and roller wheels under the nozzle tip.
Too heavy and bulky for many users, at 11.7 pounds.
Many owners complain of excessive vibration at higher speeds.
Somewhat loud compared with other electric leaf blowers.
Plastic impeller may be less durable than metal.
Doesn't chop leaves as finely as other blower/mulchers.
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