The Best Leaf Blower for Any Budget and Garden Size

• Best overall:  DEWALT 20V MAX Blower
• Best gas-powered: Poulan Pro 48cc 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower
• Best battery-powered: EGO Power+ Lithium-ion Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best corded electric: BLACK+DECKER Electric Leaf Blower
• Best backpack: Husqvarna 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower
• Best 3-in-1: WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower
• Best budget: KIMO Cordless Leaf Blower
• Best compact: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Sweeper
• Best quiet: RYOBI Cordless whisper-series Leaf Blower GEN4
• Best with mulcher: CRAFTSMAN Gas Powered Leaf Blower with Vacuum Kit

Gas leaf blowers

Gas leaf blowers are stronger than electric or battery-powered ones, so they are usually used in fall with heavy duty. However, those machines are more pricey compared to the other two types.

The biggest problem with a gas leaf blower is that it creates dust, pollutants, or worse, allergies and diseases. In some states of America, the government prohibits using gas leaf blowers because they cause carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and a long list of eco-harmful substances.

Fortunately, you now can search for products from famous brands as they are improved to make fewer fuel emissions and less than 10% ethanol.

When you decide to buy a gas leaf blower, prepare for yourself and surrounding people. Make sure that you wear a mask and goggles while operating it. Whenever you're going to use the machine, let your neighbors know. It would be best if you perform your task during the time when your surrounding people won't be affected. It would be best if you avoided the early mornings and late nights.

Corded electric leaf blowers

Corded electric leaf blowers are usually designed for one-hand use, so they are pretty light. The best advantage of the electric model is that it does not create pollutants and works softly. However, you cannot go too far from the power outlet due to the wire length limitation.

It would help if you prepared a long wire. However, be careful with obstacles because the cable may be stuck and cause unexpected troubles.

Battery-powered leaf blowers

Battery-powered leaf blowers can overcome the weaknesses of gas and electric tools. They use batteries, which are rechargeable and portable. You can carry them anywhere without worrying about the wire length and environment.

However, the batteries may work for about a half-hour, then you have to recharge or prepare the second battery.

There are thousands of products available on the market, so how to know which one is the best for you. You may need some of our advice on which factors you should consider below:

• Gas, corded electric, or battery-powered leaf blowers? If you have to clean a large area, the leaf cover is thick, wet, and contains mixed debris; you will need the robust engine of gas leaf blowers. On the opposite side, you can use electric or battery machines.
• Backpack or handheld? Backpack models can help you reduce pressure on your arms, suitable for cleaning large areas. Because backpack leaf blowers are stronger than handheld ones, you can finish your work earlier, even with heavy-duty.
  Moreover, backpack machines allow you to move things out of the way without putting them down. However, they are bulky, more expensive, and take more room in your shed.
  On the other hand, handhelds are smaller, lighter, and cheaper. They can clean narrow spaces and tight corners. They are also more suitable for flat surfaces like sidewalks and concrete floors.
• Noise: You must specifically pay attention to this factor as no one wants to be annoyed by the loud noise of leaf blowers. If you don't want to have arguments with your neighbors, you should check the noise decibels before buying. You can find this information in the product description manufacturers provide. Check the regulations of your living region to avoid fines. Some communities even prohibit leaf blowing in certain hours; some restrict gas blowers as they make loud noises.

How we tested

We tested leaf blowers based on 5 main factors: the noise rating, airflow capacity, airspeed, design, and the engine. Besides the typical suburban yard with conifer and deciduous trees, we also tested them on many different types of topographic such as slopes and flat areas, concrete floor, and so on.

We calculate the area of each plot before testing the leaf blowers to measure the time it takes for the machines to complete the job. At the same time, we use specialized instruments to measure the actual airflow speed from the tube. Finally, we measure the sound levels at the operator's location and 75 feet away from that location.

We also document all effects of design on users and usability. With battery-powered leaf blowers, we test the durability and the life of the batteries.

1. DEWALT 20V MAX Blower

The best overall leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 135 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 100 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: not mentioned

Reasons to buy

• Lightweight
• Compact design: Easy to bring
• Three-speed switch: easy to use and control

Reasons to avoid

• Just use for light work
• The price is much more expensive if you buy 2-battery pack

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DEWALT leaf blower has a three-speed variable switch that provides you the control and versatility of speed. The compact design with the trigger lock will help you bring the blower anywhere and reduce fatigue.

This battery-powered leaf blower operates with a max airflow of 100 CFM and a speed of 135 MPH. It can support you in clearing thin leaf cover and dust on your garage and garden.

If you want to buy the package with two batteries, you will have to pay much more. However, the DEWALT tool is still available for works that do not require too much power.

2. Poulan Pro 48cc 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower

The best gas leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 200 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 475 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 80 - 110 decibels

Reasons to buy

• Large tube with strong airflow
• Ergonomic design: reduce fatigue
• Easy operation

Reasons to avoid

• Loud noise
• Heavy

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The backpack Poulan Pro leaf blower is set up quickly with minimum effort and has enough power to blow away even heavy wet leaf covers. The airspeed can reach up to 200 miles per hour, and the lowest level we measured is 80 miles.
The high volume of air of the Poulan Pro leaf blower (475 cubic feet per minute) makes a difference. It is able to help you sweep out everything in the garden in just a short amount of time.
As it is a gas leaf blower, it may annoy people living nearby your house with loud noises. At the lowest speed setting, the noise level is 80 decibels. At the highest speed setting, it measured at 110 decibels.

3. EGO Power+ Lithium-ion Cordless Leaf Blower

The best cordless (battery-powered) leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 168 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 580 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 65 decibels

Reasons to buy

• Ultra-quiet
• High-speed airflow: 168 MPH
• High volume of air: 580 cubic feet per minute
• Long warranty: 5 years

Reasons to avoid

• Heavy for battery-power leaf blowers
• More expensive than electric blowers

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The EGO Power+ battery-powered leaf blower is four times quieter than gas ones. The battery can last for 45 minutes (longer than other competing cordless leaf blowers), which is enough for you to clean a large area.

Since EGO runs by battery, you can move freely without worrying about the restriction of the cord. Moreover, the machine features a weather-resistant design and variable speed control so that you can minimize your working time.

Although the EGO Power+ leaf blower is much more expensive than standard battery-powered models, it offers a 5-year warranty, long battery life, and strong engine, which is worth your money.

4. BLACK+DECKER Electric Leaf Blower

The best cord electric leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 180 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 180 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: not mentioned

Reasons to buy

• Reasonable price
• Lightweight
• Ultra-quiet

Reasons to avoid

• Not powerful as gas and battery-powered leaf blowers
• The cord is not included

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If you are looking for a light leaf blower that helps you clean your threshold and small garden, then BLACK+DECKER is the best one. Although it is not potent as gas and battery-powered tools, it's ideal for cleaning thin dry leaf covers.

This electric blower weighs only 4.4 lbs, so you can easily carry it with just one hand. It has a cord retainer to keep the blower plugged in, so you will never worry about accidental unplug.

There are many other great cord electric leaf blower options. If the BLACK+DECKER does not meet your needs, you can take a look at some other products like WORX WG520, Toro 51585 Power Sweep, or AVID POWER Electric Leaf Blower.

5. Husqvarna 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower

The best backpack leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 180 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 692.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 94 decibels

Reasons to buy

• Strong engine
• High volume of air: 692.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• High-speed airflow: 180 miles per hour

Reasons to avoid

• Loud noise
• Expensive

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Husqvarna 2-Cycle backpack leaf blower comes with a 2.1-horsepower engine with a maximum power speed of 7,500 RPM. This blower generates airspeed up to 180 MPH. You will see this kind of machine on construction sites or large landscapes and yards.

The backpack will reduce the pressure on your arms and help you move farther. The blower can blow away even thick heavy leaf covers which contain debris like branches or nuts. Demanding cleaning jobs will no longer cause difficulty to you with Husqvarna 2-Cycle.

6. WORX 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower

The best 3-in-1 leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 70 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 600 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 79 decibels

Reasons to buy

• 3-in-1 machine: can be used as a mulcher and yard vacuum
• Affordable price
• High volume of air: 600 cubic feet per minute

Reasons to avoid

• Loud noise
• Heavy

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WORX 3-in-1 leaf blower can work as a blower, mulcher, and yard vacuum. You can change its state by just a switch. WORX is powered by a 12-amp motor that does not pump out smelly fumes like gas-powered machines.

WORX's air capacity is 600 cubic feet per minute, and the airflow speed is 70 miles per hour. That means it can carry heavy duties, clear large lawns with the biggest trees. Weighing in at 12 lbs, this option seems to be heavier than other standard products. Fortunately, the package comes with a strap to carry easily.

If you think WORX is too heavy for you, BLACK+DECKER may be the better option as it is lighter.

7. KIMO Cordless Leaf Blower

The best-budget leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 150 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 200 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: not mentioned

Reasons to buy

• 2-in-1 machine: can be used as a blower and yard vacuum
• Affordable price
• Compact design

Reasons to avoid

• Only suitable for light work
• Hard to find compatible batteries

Check Price on Amazon

KIMO Cordless Leaf Blower is the ideal choice for those who are looking for an affordable tool to tackle small tasks. The 2-in-1 design helps you clean the leaves or snow in your garden and supports reaching narrow corners or gaps.

The battery can run in about 30 minutes, a standard time that you can find in other battery-powered machines. However, this KIMO leaf blower only takes one hour for a full charge, which is two times faster than average.

With an airspeed of 150 MPH and an air capacity of 200 CFM, this cordless blower is suitable for small and medium gardens.

8. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Sweeper

The best compact-design leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 130 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 100 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 61 decibels

Reasons to buy

• Ultra-quiet
• Affordable price
• Compact design

Reasons to avoid

• Only suitable for light work
• Take a long time to recharge the batteries

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Some big designs may take space in your garage and are hard to move, so you should look for compact tools if your garden is small. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Sweeper can help you deal with this problem. It is ideal for hard surfaces like driveways, decks, and garages.

Another advantage of this blower is that it produces low noise, just 61 dB. You will not worry that it will annoy your neighbors. The package comes with comprehensive components: the sweeper, a Lithium-Ion battery, a charger, and a blow tube.

If you want a compact design coming along with supporting components, then ORLEMO Cordless Leaf Blower is the idea choice. You can change the end of the tube to fit each area.

9. RYOBI Cordless whisper-series Leaf Blower GEN4

The best quiet leaf blower

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Specification

• Speed: 125 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 550 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 59 decibels

Reasons to buy

• Ultra-quiet
• Strong airflow with large tube
• Multiple power sources: corded electric, battery-powered, air-powered

Reasons to avoid

• Battery and charger not included

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You can consider the RYOBI whisper-series leaf blower if the loud noise is really a big deal for you. The noise rating is just 59 decibels, which is much quieter than other standard machines.

This handheld blower has 125 MPH airspeed and 550 CFM air volume, so you can use it to clean big thick leaf covers. Furthermore, it has a speed trigger for controlling and a jet fan designed for more powerful airflow. Overall, the RYOBI whisper-series leaf blower is the best choice for medium and enormous gardens and low-noise lovers.

10. CRAFTSMAN Gas Powered Leaf Blower with Vacuum Kit

The best leaf blower with mulches

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Specification

• Speed: 205 MPH
• Air Flow Capacity: 450 Cubic Feet Per Minute
• Loudness: 74 decibels

Reasons to buy

• High airspeed: 205 MPH
• Lare airflow capacity: 450 CFM
• 3-in-1 design: vacuuming and mulching

Reasons to avoid

• Heavy
• Loud noise

Check Price on Amazon

The CRAFTSMAN gas leaf blower has a powerful engine that can deliver an airspeed of up to 450 CFM/205 mph. With the help of this tool, your cleaning tasks will never be such efficient and easy as that.

Additionally, it has a variable speed trigger that helps you to control the airflow speed. The package comes with a vacuum kit, including a 1.5-Bushel capacity bag with a 16:1 debris reduction ratio.

1. What should I look for in a leaf blower?

The two most critical things you should look for in a leaf blower are CFM (cubic feet per minute) and MPH (miles per hour). Both statistics are essential to finish the work as fast and efficiently as possible.

Too high speed and the lack of air capacity or vice versa mean that you have to spend more time clearing the leaves.

Additionally, if your area has noise restrictions, you had better pay attention to the loudness to ensure that you will not be fined.

2. How many CFM is the best for a leaf blower?

If you just need a general leaf blower to clean your driveways or patios, an electric leaf blower with a CFM of about 200-400 is ideal. If you own a property of around 40.000 square feet, you may need a blower with a CFM between 400-700.

The most powerful machines are push-behind models, which can reach up to 300 MFM. They can blow away wet and dry leaves or even small rocks.

3. What time of the year do the leaf blowers go on sale?

Fall is when the demands for leaf blowers peak. That's the reason why the prices for this product rise at the beginning of fall. You will often hunt for big deals from September to November. In the offseason, the prices are usually lower. Checking for sales or coupons on rituals like Black Friday to save your money.

Final Thoughts

Now you know all the factors to choose the best leaf blowers among many products we recommended. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to contact us. Hope that you can choose the right one that suits your needs after reading this article.

If you’re interested in the field I am studying and writing about, I also provide you with tips to take care of your garden and many other detailed reviews about Garden Products.