16 Best Leaf Blowers (Review) In 2021

Adrienne started her professional life as a gardener at her local parks department and went on to train at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh where she was the first female student on the prestigious and world-renowned horticultural course run by the Botanic garden. An experienced and award-winning garden writer and past editor of some of Britain’s favourite gardening magazines, Adrienne has for over 30 years, inspired gardeners with a breadth of gardening know-how plus creative and decorative ideas. One of her main aims is to make gardening accessible, even to the smallest green fingers, with her clear advice and straightforward step-by-step instructions. Adrienne loves to travel and has visited, given talks and met ordinary home gardeners in far flung places like China, South Africa, Philippines and Caribbean as well as the UK.
- 1. WORX 20V 2.0Ah Cordless AIR Leaf Blower
- 2. SnapFresh Cordless Electric 20V Leaf Blower
- 3. KIMO 20V Cordless 2-in-1 Leaf Blower & Vacuum 2.0
- 4. BLACK+DECKER Electric 7 Amp Leaf Blower
- 5. Craftsman 2-Cycle Engine Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower
- 6. WORX WG520 Turbine 600 Corded Electric Leaf Blower
- 7. Husqvarna 125B Handheld Leaf Blower
- 8. Milwaukee Electric Tools M18 Fuel Leaf Blower
- 9. BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Lithium Multi-Use Sweeper/Blower
- 10. WORX WG505 3-in-1 Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum
- 11. Makita18V X2 Leaf Blower Kit With 4 Batteries
- 12. EGO Power+ 3-Speed Turbo 56V Cordless Electric Leaf Blower
- 13. Poulan Pro 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
- 14. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum
- 15. Greenworks 40V Cordless Jet Leaf Blower
- 16. Husqvarna 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower Backpack
You cannot achieve optimal lawn and garden maintenance without one of the best leaf blowers available. Long gone are the days of you craning your back to pick up errant leaves, twigs, and sticks to keep your garden in perfect condition. Now, you can shift garden debris all into one tidy pile without ruining your back, and getting everything finished in time for dinner.
But what makes a leaf blower the best? If you’ve been blessed with a garden for the first time or want to upgrade your current model, there’s plenty to look out for. From power to performance, or comfort to convenience, we’ve worked hard to narrow down a wide range of products to pick the very best available. We promise you we’re not blowing hot air, and our vast experience in garden care for both home and work help us ensure we select only the very best leaf blower products available. Gas or electric, we’ve got it right here.
1. WORX 20V 2.0Ah Cordless AIR Leaf Blower





Key Features
120mph/80 CFM
Ultra lightweight design
Versatile and portable
Battery power indicator
20V battery included
For the best choice of the best leaf blower, the WORX 20V 2.0Ah Cordless AIR Leaf Blower is an option that’s sure to impress both novice and expert users.
It blows up to 120 miles per hour and 80 cubic feet per minute, while the ultra-lightweight design makes it versatile and portable, especially for smaller jobs. There’s also a battery power indicator that keeps you in the loop of how long you have left to use it. Despite this, as it’s not wired, the battery doesn’t last too long, so it’s not perfect for larger jobs, but its fast charging can counteract this.
Pros
Ergonomic handle
Fast charging
Easy to use
Cons
Battery does not last as long as we’d like
2. SnapFresh Cordless Electric 20V Leaf Blower



Key Features
Easy to assemble
Ultra-lightweight design
130mph maximum air velocity
Adjustable speed and tube length
1 hour charging
Easy to assemble and lightweight, the SnapFresh Cordless Electric 20V Leaf Blower produces an air velocity of 130 miles per hour and also comes with one-hour charging. The adjustable speed provides variety, as does the adjustable tube length so you can work in tight spaces without issue.
Its one-handed operation makes it one of the most convenient leaf blowers around. However, it doesn’t boast the power of larger models, which could be a problem for those looking for one of the best leaf blowers for commercial needs.
Pros
One-handed operation
Flexible rubber grip
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Cons
Not powerful enough for heavy-duty applications
3. KIMO 20V Cordless 2-in-1 Leaf Blower & Vacuum 2.0




Key Features
2-in-1 operation
Motor runs at 2000 RPM
Fast charging with power indicator light
Variable speed settings
2 reusable collection bags included
The KIMO 20V Cordless 2-in-1 Leaf Blower & Vacuum 2.0 is our best value pick of the best leaf blowers. It boasts 2-in-1 operation, allowing you to collect leaves as well as disperse them into a neat little (or large) pile.
As far as electric blowers go, it’s easy to use, and the long battery life makes it stand out against similar models. it’s also easy to carry, and the lack of an ignition system means you can get it started with ease. You might find the two collection bags are too small for more substantial jobs, though, so keep this in mind when planning your next project.
Pros
Long life battery
Versatile application
Easy to carry and operate
Cons
Bags are too small for larger jobs
4. BLACK+DECKER Electric 7 Amp Leaf Blower




Key Features
Powerful 7 amp motor
Moves up to 180 mph / 180 CFM
Built-in cord retention
Lightweight construction
One-handed design
If you’re looking for a budget pick, the BLACK+DECKER Electric 7- Amp Leaf Blower is just what you need. It is lightweight and allows for comfortable one-handed operation, while the built-in cord retention prevents hassle when moving around the garden.
As it’s corded, there’s no need to charge the battery, meaning you can use it for as long or as little as you like. However, this cord will also limit maneuverability, so you may not cover the entire garden without an extension cord.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to use
Comfortable handle
No need to charge battery
Cons
Cord might limit mobility and range
5. Craftsman 2-Cycle Engine Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower






Key Features
25cc two-stroke engine
Easy start technology
430 CSM / 200 mph air speed
Extended nozzle
Variable speed throttle
You’ll find the Craftsman 2-Cycle Engine Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower comes with easy start technology to deliver a stress-free experience. The air velocity rates as 430 CDM and 200 miles per hour, giving you power and performance that’s essential for the most demanding jobs.
There’s also a variable speed throttle and extended nozzle to reach further. However, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, this is not for you, but the translucent fuel tank will, at least, let you know when it’s time to refill.
Pros
Translucent fuel tank
Integrated scraper
2-year limited warranty
Cons
Not as eco-friendly as electric versions
6. WORX WG520 Turbine 600 Corded Electric Leaf Blower


Key Features
Turbine fan technology
Dual speed options
Hyperstream air nozzle
600 CFM air volume
Extension cord retainer
With boasting turbine fan technology and a Hyperstream air nozzle that provides 600 cubic feet per minute of air volume, WORX WG520 Turbine 600 Corded Electric Leaf Blower is an excellent handheld leaf blower choice.
The blower is easy to use and gets the job done, while the simple start up takes the hassle out of everyday tasks. Despite its electric power, though, it’s also a little too loud for our liking, which is not something you expect of handheld blowers powered by electricity.
Pros
Easy one-handed operation
Simple startup
Lightweight design
Cons
Louder than you’d expect
7. Husqvarna 125B Handheld Leaf Blower





Key Features
425 CFM / 170 mph air volume and speed
Auto return stop switch
Variable speed control with cruise control
Adjustable blowing tube
Easy-access controls
If you’re in the market for handheld blowers that come with a range of superb features, the Husqvarna 125B Handheld Leaf Blower is an excellent choice. It comes with variable speed control and an auto-return stop switch for convenience, while the adjustable blowing tube gives versatility.
The ergonomic design means you can use it for hours without feeling fatigued. However, it’s also remarkably loud. So much so, that it’s comparable with gas blowers. So, while there’s plenty to love about it, anyone who has neighbors who will complain at the slightest decibel level will apologize for the noise more often than not.
Pros
Ideal for a range of applications
Ergonomic design
Well-balanced and easy to handle
Cons
Very loud
8. Milwaukee Electric Tools M18 Fuel Leaf Blower


Key Features
Full throttle startup in one second
450 CFM / 120 mph
Variable speed trigger
Lock-on button
Durable brushless motor
The Milwaukee Electric Tools M18 Fuel Leaf Blower boats a super-quick start that makes it stand out as one of the best electric blowers you will ever come across. The variable speed trigger gives you optimal control, while the lock-on button allows easy one-handed operation.
The brushless motor is durable, providing peace of mind and longevity for your cordless leaf blower, and it’s suitable for both simple and substantial jobs. Despite this, you’ll need to purchase the battery separately, as it only comes in tool-only packages.
Pros
Suitable for both simple and demanding jobs
Increased control
Lightweight construction
Cons
You must purchase the battery separately
9. BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Lithium Multi-Use Sweeper/Blower




Key Features
Up to 130 mph air speed
Long-lasting battery
Low noise design
Lightweight design
Charger included
Capable of more than just blowing, the BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Lithium Multi-Use Sweeper/Blower is a cordless leaf blower option with a long-lasting battery and low-noise design that makes it ideal for suburban areas.
It delivers up to 130 miles per hour air speed, but while this is relatively impressive, there are definitely other air blowers available that provide more power. Still, if you’re looking for one of the best leaf blowers for comfort and convenience, this could be an excellent option for removing leaves from all around the garden with ease.
Pros
Suitable for hard surfaces
Easy to handle
Cordless design improves mobility and range
Cons
Not as powerful as other options
10. WORX WG505 3-in-1 Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum



Key Features
3-in-1 model
Adjustable airflow speed
One-handed operation
350 CFM / 210 mph maximum
Angled tube for tricky areas
For ultimate versatility, there are few electric blowers that can stand up to the WORX WG505 3-in-1 Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum. As a three-in-one model, it can do everything, but it’s not merely a gimmick. The adjustable air flow and angled tube provide excellent options when clearing your yard.
It comes with a collection bag and it easy to assemble, while the one-handed operation makes it one of our favorite handheld blowers. However, the mulching system, while convenient, can jam a little too easily, which could hinder your momentum.
Pros
Collection bag included
Mulching capabilities
Easy to assemble
Cons
Jams a little too easily when mulching
11. Makita18V X2 Leaf Blower Kit With 4 Batteries





Key Features
28 minutes run time
15,800 RPM brushless motor
473 CFM / 120 mph
Zero emissions and maintenance
6 stage air velocity/volume selection
Our premium pick of the best leaf blowers is the impressive Makita 18V X2 Leaf Blower Kit with 4 Batteries. Here, you get a full kit to overcome the unsightly leaves and twigs that plague your yard.
It can run for 28 minutes on the middle settings but comes with a top speed of 473 CFM. There are zero emissions and no need for maintenance, and overload protection keeps everything working perfectly. Be warned, though, as it’s much heavier than you might expect, so don’t blame us if you embarrass yourself lifting it for the first time in front of your buddies.
Pros
Built-in cooling fan
Versatile performance
Overload protection
Cons
Heavier than you might expect it to be
12. EGO Power+ 3-Speed Turbo 56V Cordless Electric Leaf Blower




Key Features
480 CFM turbine fan
High-efficiency brushless motor
Water-resistant construction
Variable speed
Turbo boost setting
With a 480 CFM turbine fan and durable brushless motor, the EGO Power+ 3-Speed Turbo 56V Cordless Electric Leaf Blower is an excellent choice for getting jobs done quickly and efficiently.
It’s suitable for wet weather, warm weather, and in-between, so you’ve no excuse for putting off the yard work, and the fast-charging system can keep batteries powered and ready to go whenever you need. It’s also lightweight and compact, but this also means any plans for bigger jobs may not be possible.
Pros
Compatible with EGO POWER+ lithium batteries
Fast charging
Lightweight and compact
Cons
Only suitable for quick jobs
13. Poulan Pro 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Leaf Blower






Key Features
Convenient backpack design
475 CFM / 200 mph
48cc 2-stroke engine
Cruise control setting
Variable speed throttle
If you’re tired of lugging heavy leaf blowers around, the Poulan Pro 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Leaf Blower is the perfect alternative. It boasts a convenient backpack design that distributes weight across the shoulders for lasting comfort, while the powerful 48cc two-stroke engine ensures superb performance.
There is a variable speed throttle and cruise control settings to reduce strain on your thumb while operating. But, while there’s definitely some potential for professionals using leaf blowers, this might not have all the power required for commercial demands, so it’s best used on smaller jobs.
Pros
Lightweight design
Load-reducing harness
Optimal fit
Cons
Not ideal for professional landscaping
14. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum



Key Features
12 amp motor
3-in-1 operation
250 mph with 2 speed settings
Mulching capabilities
Low noise
The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Mulcher & Vacuum delivers a convenient three-in-one blower experience that’s sure to impress anyone with any experience with blowers prior to today.
It tops out at 250 miles per hour but also has dual speed settings so you can customize it to suit your environment, and with its electric operation, it’s a handheld leaf blower that also comes with low noise features to prevent hearing damage (and complaints). The included accessories are also a treat, but they don’t feel as durable as we’d like them to be.
Pros
2 disposable bags
High impact metal fan
Easy switching
Cons
Accessories are not as robust as we’d like them to be
15. Greenworks 40V Cordless Jet Leaf Blower




Key Features
14 minute runtime on high
390 CFM / 110 mph
Comfort mold grip
75 minute full recharge
4-year tool warranty / 2-year battery
With a 14 minute runtime on the highest setting, the Greenworks 40V Cordless Jet Leaf Blower stands out against similarly priced blowers in its consistency for removing leaves with ease. The comfort mold grip makes it ideal for quick jobs without causing serious hand strain, as does the lightweight design that ensures easy portability.
It’s also easy to handle, even when dealing with stubborn leaves that don’t seem to budge. But, while 14 minutes can feel like a lot while working, it means that any sizeable areas may require a second go-around after you’ve allowed it to charge.
Pros
Variable trigger speed
Cruise control
Easy to handle
Cons
Suitable for smaller areas only
16. Husqvarna 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower Backpack





Key Features
X-torque engine design
Minimal arm strain
Variable speed throttle with cruise control
692 CFM
Low vibration
Husqvarna offers some of the best gas blowers around, and the Husqvarna 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower Backpack is no different. Powerful but providing minimal arm strain, it’s comfortable and dependable, while the 692 CFM rating is perhaps the most impressive we’ve come across, gas or electric.
With it, leaves are easily removed without hassle, and the intuitive controls make it easy to use. However, such convenience comes at a price, and we’re not lying when we tell you it’s one of the most powerful gas blowers available.
Pros
Convenient backpack design
Intuitive controls
Adjustable tube length
Cons
Heavier than other options
Features To Consider With Leaf Blowers
Battery/Gas/Corded
There are three types of leaf blower you will come across: battery-powered, gas-powered, and corded. The type you select will typically depend on the type of jobs you need to complete as well as the size of the area.
Battery and gas-powered models give you a greater range to work in, as there is nothing restraining you from moving around freely. However, these can also be quite heavy as there will be extra weight from the battery or gas, and both these will run down to nothing. A corded model provides consistent power, but you won't get the same range to move around as you'll need to stay as close to the power source as the cable will allow.
Backpack Or Handheld
Choosing between a backpack leaf blower or a handheld blower is something else that depends on what you need. Backpack leaf blowers are arguably more convenient as the weight distributes comfortably across the back and shoulders, whereas a handheld product can cause fatigue in the arms and shoulder.
Backpack blowers are arguably more suited toward commercial use. As you'll be using it all day across a range of job sites, you want to ensure that your arms don't get too tired, as this could affect control and efficiency on your part.
Multifunctionality
Not all leaf blowers are designed to blow leaves across an area into a neat-ish pile, though. Some models come with multifunctionality that can enhance your garden maintenance in ways you never considered.
These functions can include vacuuming the leaves to collect in an attachable bag, as well as mulching performance that will eliminate the need to throw the leaves away once you have tidied them. The multifunctional models are ideal for commercial use, as it will minimize the time spent changing tools, or even hiring more people to carry out the work.
However, they are also suitable for at-home use for much of the same reason. Rather than invest in multiple garden maintenance tools, you can adjust the way your blower works whenever you need to, saving you plenty of time and money.
Noise Level
Noise level is always something you must consider when buying powered tools, gas, or electric. You don't want something that's so noisy you can't hear yourself think, and a product that's too loud can even damage your hearing as you're so close to it. There's also the issue of waking the neighbors if you prefer to get your garden care done on weekends. Typically, electric or battery-powered models are quieter than gas, as the throttle of the engine can be much louder than you might expect, irritating your neighbors and making you a suburban pariah.
Portability
If you're only using your leaf blower at home, then portability isn't really an issue. However, for commercial use, it should be easy enough to store in the van and in the garage when you're not using it.
Even if you are only using it at home, though, the portability can become a problem. Lightweight models will be more portable as it will reduce back and arm strain. But this could come at the expense of power. For bigger jobs and demands, you may feel you can deal with the extra weight for the extra gas power, but this could come back to bite you.
Power Source
If you're eco-conscious, then the best leaf blower for you is an electric option, preferably battery operated, because of the fast charging system found in many modern batteries. However, you may be concerned about the power that comes from battery-powered blowers, and so you can use a corded option to ensure consistent operation.
A gas-powered alternative may not be as eco-friendly, but for old-school landscapers, they might provide the power you need. Despite this, a fuel-based model requires care and maintenance, and you'll need to spend money on fuel.
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Size
Gas blowers are larger than electric counterparts, and this can contribute to the weight and the overall size. If you're concerned about easy storage and transport, then it may be best to invest in a compact blower that will usually run on electricity. However, while gas-powered leaf blowers are typically larger and heavier, you may find one that is compact enough that you can comfortably store away in between uses.
Leaf Blower FAQ
Q: What's the difference between a leaf blower and vacuum?
The difference between a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum is in the name. While leaf blowers will, well, blow, vacuums do what vacuums do best: suck.
But there's more to it than that. The real difference is where the leaves end up, which will depend on what you prefer. While a leaf blower is powerful, it can also be temperamental if you don't know exactly how to use it. Novices using a leaf blower for the first time will often encounter problems controlling the leaves, which can increase the time you are in the yard. If you're a professional, this isn't ideal, as you'll need to get one job done before moving onto the next address and client.
Despite this, with enough practice, you can control the direction the leaves blow in and minimize the time you spend on a job, but it will take some practice.
Alternatively, leaf vacuums will draw the leaves towards you and collect in a bag that attaches to the unit. This is suitable for smaller jobs, but for more substantial projects, you'll waste time emptying the bag every time it gets too full. Because of this, it's difficult to tell which tool is right for you, and you may need to try both to get an idea of which is best suited to your needs.
If you're unable to decide, you can purchase 2-in-1 or even 3-in-1 blowers that can do both, as well as mulching.
Q: How long do battery operated leaf blowers last?
The battery life of battery-powered leaf blowers will depend on a range of factors. These factors include the battery size and blower speed and power. Some battery-powered blowers are ideal for smaller spaces, but because the capacity isn't as large as other options, they aren't suited for large areas and projects.
Likewise, the amount of power generated by the motor will affect battery life. The higher the speed settings, the shorter the battery life. This is just like any product that runs on batteries. The more juice that is required to run, the quicker the battery drains.
Some models can last for 30 minutes or more, which is ideal for most people when clearing leaves at home. However, for professional landscapers, you may need something that will run for longer, as you'll need to use it several times during the day. In cases like this, it may be easier to invest in a corded or gas-powered leaf blower. Still, you can purchase multiple batteries to replace run-down ones to keep working for longer.
Q: How to start a leaf blower?
Starting a leaf blower will depend on the type of leaf blower you buy. As you know, there are two primary types to consider: an electric leaf blower or a gas-powered leaf blower.
If you're using a gas-powered leaf blower, you'll need to first make sure you have filled the fuel tank correctly and used the correct ratio of gas to oil (usually 50:1). When you have done this, make sure to mix it correctly to ensure it starts correctly. However, if you're using a 4-stroke engine rather than a two-stroke engine, then you will only need to pour the fuel in. Fill it to the correct level to prevent sputtering, overflow, and also give you an accurate idea of how long the gas blower will run for.
Use the manual to identify the Choke and slowly pull the primer bulb. This will need to be done about six times, and when you have finished, partially close the Choke halfway. All that is left to do now is pull the starting cord. You might get lucky and hear it rev into action immediately. However, if you're new to this, then it will take around five attempts to get everything going.
After it has started, let it run for up to 30 seconds and open the Choke all the way. Now you can start blowing leaves.
Conversely, if you're using an electric leaf blower, you'll find the entire process much easier. With the best electric leaf blower, you don't need to worry about proper fueling. All that matters is that the battery is charged and inserted correctly, or if it's corded, you have plugged it into the socket and switched the mains on.
When you are certain everything is correct press the Start (or On) button and there you have it. However, it may be worth checking the manual before using it to make sure you understand how long you can run it for without overheating the backpack or handheld blower and prevent parts damage.
Sources
Leaf Blowers vs. Vacuum: What's Best For You? - Garden Tool Expert