It's spring, and you can barely make your way around- again! You've been avoiding it, but we can all agree, it's probably time you dealt with all those leaves on your sidewalk or driveway. Here's where you reach out for the best handheld gas leaf blower. With this, you can 'sweep' those leaves, dried grass clippings, or dirt off your driveway, sidewalk or patio.
A leaf blower, otherwise known as a blower, is a gardening and landscaping tool that works by propelling air out of a nozzle that moves debris off the grounds, such as leaves and grass clippings. Some leaf blowers are powered by either gasoline or electric motors. Gasoline leaf blower models have always been two-stroke engines, but with time, four-stroke engines were recently introduced to help partially address the air pollution concerns that had come about.
Typically, leaf blowers for relatively small yards will either come as self-contained handheld units or as backpack-mounted units with a handheld wand. The backpack blower is more ergonomic for you if you mean to use it for a while. On the other hand, larger units for larger yards may come on wheels and also use a motor for the propulsion.
In general, there are a variety of leaf blowers in the market that you can choose from, but the main differences fall within the controller options and what it runs on. For personal use or small to medium-sized yards, we're going to focus on either handheld or backpack leaf blowers.
To help you settle on what's best for you, we have carefully reviewed a list of well-known and great-quality leaf blowers. These picks are not only trending in the market but are also ranking best in terms of quality construction, incredible power, and durability. Here, we outline the key features of each of the mentioned products, what we liked and stood out for them and what you should note.
What Are The Different Types of Leaf Blowers?
a) Gas Blowers vs. Electric Leaf Blowers
When choosing the best leaf blower that suits your lawn or yard, you have to consider factors such as speed, convenience, and price. These are also distinguishing factors when weighing between gas models and electric-powered blowers.
Under the handheld leaf blower category, both gas and battery leaf blowers make work easier and quicker when you need to deal with leaves. They remain the fastest way to clear your yard full of leaves. The top-rated corded-electric blowers are built powerful enough with a great electric motor to do the heavy jobs.
On the downside, though, you'll have to stay at least 100 feet to your power outlet, which shouldn't be a problem since most outdoor extension cords get to that length.
b) Backpack Blower Vs. Handheld Leaf Blower
Typically, backpack blowers will cost more than handheld blowers, but on the other hand, they will also offer you so much more power. They also transfer the weight of the backpack blower from your arms to your shoulders and back. Backpacks will definitely tip the scales at 22 pounds, but they will still feel lighter than the 10-pound handheld leaf blower because its weight is better distributed.
Generally, backpack blowers are best for large lawns. You can go with either the traditional gas-powered leaf blower that's either in the form of a backpack blower or a battery-powered blower model. Battery-powered models are relatively new pin the market. The top-rated leaf blowers are the ones that can hold their gas when it comes to sweeping power.
Handheld leaf blowers are much smaller, lighter, and less pricey. They work pretty well in corners and any other tight spaces you might need to work on. They are also better suited to clearing up the paved surfaces with much less friction than you'd get with grass.
Handheld gas blowers will go anywhere you need them to, but they will weigh and cost much more than the corded electric models- they're also noisier. They'll also require some fueling and maintenance. By using a vacuum tube, some handheld blowers can collect yard debris.
This operation feature comes in handy when you need to suck up leaves as they fall or for some maintenance when you need to take care of the stragglers. They come in relatively small tubes that also limit how much you can actually vacuum simultaneously. This makes them best suited for the small yards, where you can also bag up the mulched leaves
C) Cordless Leaf Blower
The cordless electric, also termed battery-powered leaf blowers, now gives gas models extra power. On the flip side, they also come with a limited run time, with each battery charge, expect at least 8-30 minutes
D) Wheeled Leaf Blower
If you're dealing with plenty of leaves or a huge property, then your best bet is on wheeled leaf blowers because they pack the most power. However, they will need more storage space, might be a little tough to push around and will need more control.
Consequently, they also come in the highest price tag in all categories. Ideally, they're best for large, flat yards in the woods. However, they're relatively much tougher to push on hilly landscapes. Additionally, living in an area where you are close to your neighbors, you might accidentally blow leaves into the adjacent yard.
What Should You Know About Leaf Blowers?
i) CFM Vs. MPH
As you'd expect, different kinds of leaf blowers won't perform the same way in either. Typically, gas-powered blowers are the most powerful, discharge the highest blow speeds (measured in MPH), and discharge most air volume (measured in Cubic feet per minute or CFM). If you need to clear leaves on a lawn area that's larger than an acre, then the best leaf blower for this will need at least 400 CFM.
Options for you here will include; a quiet and reliable electric blower model, a convenient cordless leaf blower, a powerful yet affordable gas-powered blower, or a relatively more sophisticated walk-behind blower.
ii) Noise
We have all had an experience with one of those early-bird, yard-obsessed neighbors who just decided to wake up and run loud leaf blowers early Sunday morning. For this reason, some communities prohibit the use of a leaf blower during certain hours, while others restrict the use of gas blowers altogether.
Gas leaf blowers tend to be relatively louder than electric models. In California, some communities ban the use of all leaf blowers, no matter how quiet they're in operation.
Like other outdoor power equipment, leaf blowers list out the product decibels; with this, you can compare the noise levels as you shop.
How to Protect Yourself and Safely Use a Leaf Blower?
- Always wear hearing protection while using the leaf blower
- Always wear goggles and an efficient dust mask
- Always keep people and pets far away from the area you're trying to clear
- Always avoid running even what you'd consider the quietest blowers, either early or very late in the day
Which Is The Right Leaf Blower For Your Lawn?
The wetter or thicker your lawn leaf cover and the more debris (twigs and nuts) mixed up, the more leaf-moving power and air volume you'll need. On the other hand, if all you have is a small leaf cover that's no deeper than the top of a shoe, then a handheld blower or light-duty backpack leaf blower will always suffice.
These blowers also apply if all you want is to sweep leaves or grass clippings from the driveway or sidewalk. But, again, either a small-scale electric or gas model should work.
If the leaf cover on your yard is ankle-deep and probably wet, then that would call for either a gas or electric backpack leaf blower. On the other hand, if it's shin-deep or deeper, then it's time to shop and come in with the pro-grade gas-engine backpack blower.
1. Husqvarna 125BVx Handheld Leaf Blower and Vacuum
The Husqvarna 125BVx, 28cc 2 is a 2-cycle gas handheld blower and vacuum that's practically one of the most innovative leaf blowers available on the market. This machine combines such excellent power, all wrapped in a spectacular design.
It comes with an ergonomic, inline design, where the blower tube is built directly in line with its handle to minimize the rotational force applied on your wrist. This makes it more comfortable to use, more compact and easy to handle.
The Husqvarna 125BVx handheld leaf blower and vacuum is relatively lightweight and comes in a great power-to-weight ratio with controls that are easily accessible. Its priming bulb and chock are easily accessible and located behind the engine's assembly with a self-resetting engine 'kill switch' that's easily accessible. Additionally, it comes with a soft-grip handle that's comfortable to hold for long periods and also as easily adjustable.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly but durable gas-powered handheld leaf blower, the Husqvarna 125BVx, is definitely one of the best choices. As you'd expect, its 2-cycle 28cc engine produces incredible power coupled with many versatile options that will ease cleaning up.
For stress release and better control, it comes with anti-vibration controls. In addition to its awesome features, it's lightweight, making it more convenient to use, so we can definitely recommend a product.
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2. Echo PB-9010T 79.9 cc Backpack Blower Tube Mounted Throttle
- Industry-leading 48 Newtons blowing performance
- 79.9cc backpack blower with tube throttle
- Large top mounted pleated paper main filter plus foam prefilter...
- Metal ring on blower pipe end reduces wear
- Posi-loc keeps pipe connection secure for maximum durability
The Echo leaf blower ranks high as the industry's most powerful backpack blower, placing it in direct contention for that title with other formidable backpack blowers. This backpack blower comes in with an outright leaf-blasting power and air volume.
To start, just point its tube and pull the trigger. The powerful emission from its nozzle blast can be used on wet/dry leaves, pine cones, sticks, litter, wood chips, and anything else on your path that's either wet or dry. Generally, the only other more ferocious outdoor power equipment than this would be the walk-behind blowers.
But other than just its power, there's more to like about this Echo leaf blower. For starters, it starts on the first or second pull and comes with padded comfortable shoulder straps. In addition, as a commercial-grade blower, it can handle a whole day of moving leaves, with a 2-year commercial warranty and 5-year residential use warranty.
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3. Echo ES-250 Shred n Vac Blower and Mulching Vacuum
- Price For: Each Engine: 2 Stroke Fuel Type: Gas Speed Control:...
The Echo ES-250 uses a nifty, offset tube that aligns the handle for better aim and extra control over the machine's recoil. Any handheld blower with this power level can be quite tiring to use, and that applies to the Echo.
On a more positive note, this gas-powered leaf blower comes with a couple of improvements that make starting it a little easier. It also comes with a 2-position stop switch that's clearly marked to prevent the machine from starting in the off position. Additionally, the choke positions are now clearly marked in contrasting colors for easier reading. Finally, unlike other gas blowers, the ES-250 can also be used as a leaf vacuum to collect leaves and also as a shredder when used with the other tools and attachments.
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4. Hitachi RB24EAP Commercial Grade Handheld Gas-Powered Leaf Blower
- Class leading air volume at 441 CFM for excellent debris movement
- Lightweight (only 8.6 lbs) & well-balanced for comfortable use...
- 23.9 cc Commercial grade 2-stroke engine for outstanding power &...
- Industry leading warranty- 7-year consumer use, 2-year commercial...
- Produces an impressive air velocity of 170 MPH (with taper...
The Hitachi RB24EAP gas-powered leaf blower is another remarkable machine in our lineup. It is designed with outstanding features for use and definitely creates an excellent impression. It is the perfect device to put away those leaves.
With a 2-stroke commercial-grade engine, this machine gets the job done with so much ease. It is lightweight, runs on gas fuel but comes with a low emission engine for a trouble-free and eco-friendly use that's conscious of the environment.
Its starting switch also comes with an auto-return feature that means you can get back to working that spot after your break. The Hitachi RB24EAP handheld gas-powered leaf blower is a commercial-grade blower that's more than capable of handling small to medium-sized yards in personal use. Overall, all these impressive features make your work easier and quicker.
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5. Husqvarna 965877502 350BT 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower
- X-torque engine: the x-torque engine design reduces harmful...
- Utilize full blow force with minimal Arm strain: The offset...
- Lowvib: dampeners between the engine and chassis effectively...
- Ergonomic harness system: Padded harness and hipbelt is shaped to...
- Cruise control: variable speed throttle with cruise control can...
This backpack blower comes with a 2.1-horsepower engine and a power speed of 7,500 RPM. This extra power level generates wind speeds up to 180 miles per hour.
These are the kind of blowers that you'll see in construction sites and in the hands of landscapers and yard workers, meaning this unit is built to tackle tough tasks. If you work in a commercial setup or have a large yard, this backpack blower is definitely worth every penny.
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6. Makita BHX2500CA 24.5 cc MM4 4-Stroke Engine Blower
The Makita BHX2500CA is one of the best blowers with a low-compression 24.5 CC 4-stroke commercial-duty engine that starts pretty quickly and also doesn't need a fuel mix. Additionally, unlike other leaf blowers, it burns clean, is EPA Phase-II CARB-compliant, and maintains a maximum total airspeed of 145 MPH.
In addition to its lightweight, it also comes with a dual-stage air filter, a cruise-control lever and a large capacity muffler which reduces the operator's fatigue.
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7. Craftsman B215 2-Cycle Engine Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower
- POWERFUL ENGINE: High performance 25cc 2-cycle lightweight engine...
- EASY-START TECHNOLOGY: Faster starts with 3 simple steps: prime,...
- USER-FRIENDLY ENGAGEMENT: User friendly features such as the...
- EXTENDED NOZZLE: Extended nozzle with integrated scraper provides...
- 2-CYCLE ENGINE OIL: Oil included with purchase for your...
Craftsman B215 25cc 2-cycle handheld gas blower comes with great power and features that make work so much easier. It is lightweight and has a 25cc, 2-cycle gas engine for high-performance, more air capacity and greater speed. Moreover, the Craftsman B215 25cc 2-cycle handheld comes with an easy start technology that starts faster with 3 simple steps: prime, choke, and pull.
In addition, its user-friendly features complement its great design. It's great for household use, but it's not built for heavy commercial work because it's lightweight and small in size. However, it still has the power to perfectly clean and blows out all that stubborn debris.
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8. Poulan Pro PPBV25 Handheld Gas Leaf Blower and Vacuum
- Capable of 450 CFM airflow and 230 MPH air speed
- Comfortable, soft-grip handle
- Blower with Vac Included 16: 01 Mulch Ratio
- Reduced Vibration and Soft Touch Handle
- 2 Year
The Poulan Pro PPBV25 gas blower is powered by a 25cc 2-cycle engine with a fuel-enriched carburetor. Additionally, it features a spring-assisted starting system for easy starting and hassles free use. This blower comes with 450 CFM airflow and 230 MPH airspeed to easily blow out all the leaves and clean out your yard.
This machine can easily handle all the obstinate grass, leaves, and other debris. With great performance, a powerful engine with cruise control, and reduced vibration, this commercial-grade machine can take up heavy loads. Ultimately, although it has a relatively heavier construction, you still get to use the machine comfortably easily.
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9. Husqvarna 952711925 125B Handheld Gas Blower
Yet again, Husqvarna hails. The Husqvarna 952711925 125B handheld gas leaf blower is great for anyone who wants an all-around performance and easy maintenance. The adjustable fan speed and tube length options allow users to customize them to fit.
This leaf blower is ergonomically designed to decrease exhaustion and stress from the user's body. Additionally, the low vibration technology comes with sound absorbers. Husqvarna leaf blowers come in options that allow you to select the model you want that includes the features that you'd want.
Husqvarna 952711925 125B handheld blower produces a relatively low sound that allows you to work in residential areas. Moreover, it is moveable and convenient and most recommended for regular and professional purposes.
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How Do You Choose The Best Handheld Gas Leaf Blower? (Buying Guide)
We all know how important it is to clean and maintain our lawn and backyard. But it is no easy task. We need various gardening appliances to maintain our yards and gardens, just as we need many tools and equipment in the maintenance and cleaning of our homes.
A good leaf blower will undoubtedly do great things for your lawn, such as 'sweeping' leaves or grass cuttings, while others come with built-in vacuums that you can use to clean up after you're done with the cutting. In addition, to being able to quickly deal with all the fallen leaves every time you need to, you also get the convenience and speed that comes with it.
A leaf blower is probably one of the most versatile home appliances you can have; you can use it to blow on anything, similar to what you'd do with leaves. It helps you enforce neatness and clean every spot, including those crannies and holes in the house. Consequently, these blowers help you maintain an exquisite surrounding all through the season, in winter as well as through the fall.
Like many products and appliances, you'll need to pick the right leaf blower for you. It's no easy task, to be honest. However, if you are tired of cleaning up your lawn, walkway, or patio with a rack all year round, especially during the fall and winter season, then you will need a suitable and good-quality leaf blower.
But you'll need to decide which one is best for you and to decide you'll need all the right information and a breakdown of what to look out for. You must consider a few significant factors; these may include; finding the best design, the right model and the right product specifications that fit your work requirements. In this segment, we break down the best ranking products in the market currently, and here's a guide on the things you must watch out for and know before you buy the leaf blower.
A) Power Rating
One of the first and most essential things that you must always check on before buying a new leaf blower is its power rating. It would be best to first carefully think through what your purpose is and then decide which leaf blower is capable of what you need. A low power rating blower will likely cost you more time to do the same job. Therefore, if you are searching for a gas blower, never choose anything less than 2500 watts of power. Anything less can only take on those lightweight tasks like cleaning the leaves or dust from your garden and yard.
B) Gathering Bag Volume
Some leaf blowers come with features that allow the vacuuming and cut-up tasks. If you're interested in these, always check for the gathering bag size in which whatever you collect is contained.
Also, check whether it is made of hard or long-lasting materials since brushwood or twigs could destroy it if it's not. Finally, experts strongly recommended making sure that the bag is at least 12 gallons at its capacity. If it does, you won't need to clear it as often.
C) Movability and Control
Always go for a leaf blower that can take up the tasks based on what you require. For instance, if you have a big garden, go for a leaf blower that's built to take on a large capacity, has a strong engine and features that allow it to handle large lawns.
One of the other critical features of a leaf blower is its weight. First, you must check how much comfortable you are with the weight. A lightweight, ergonomic design is a great place to start.
D) Sound Level
Some states don't allow the use of blowers, especially around residential areas. Before choosing your leaf blower, check with your state regulations on what's allowed. Always be sure to carefully check details on the machine's sound level from its description to know how noisy it is. It's always best that you choose a leaf blower with the least noise. Also, avoid working on your lawn at odd hours. With this in mind, you also help in the restriction of sound pollution.
E) Speed and power
Ease and comfort are quite important if you're going to do any task. These factors are also as essential if you need to do the work faster. Time is of the essence.
Based on your needs and the size of the area, always ensure that your blower comes with a high capacity in terms of power and speed. Factors such as high air capacity and speed are quite important if you're going to do the job faster or clean out those stubborn leaves and cut-offs. So before you purchase anything, make sure that the blower you're eyeing has enough power capacity to handle the size of the workspace and has adequate airspeed.
Final Verdict
Undoubtedly, a gas leaf blower is a useful tool that you'll need to take care of and maintain a great garden, yard or walkway around the house. It blasts air to 'sweep' away leaves or debris by using a thrust system at high speed. With the different kinds of leaf blowers, with different power supply options, i.e., gasoline, battery or electric, knowing each by their benefits and different work capacity should help you pick the best.
The best gas-powered blowers come with great power, speed is lightweight and is designed ergonomically for maximum comfort and convenience as you use them. Overall, the Husqvarna 125BVx handheld leaf blower and vacuum take the title of the best handheld gas leaf blower.
It is a budget-friendly option that's surprising, durable. In addition, it comes with an ergonomic, inline design, where the blower tube is built directly in line with its handle to minimize the rotational force applied that's usually placed on your wrist.
Also, considering its soft grip, it has features that make it more comfortable and convenient to use. It is relatively lightweight and comes in a great power-to-weight ratio with controls that are easily accessible.
