Cordless Leaf Blowers: A Comprehensive Guide
Power
When choosing a cordless leaf blower, consider the size of your yard and the types of debris you need to clear. For large yards with lots of trees, a high-powered blower with a high CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating is recommended. CFM measures the volume of air coming out of the blower, so a higher CFM means you can move more leaves and debris faster and more efficiently.
For smaller yards or lighter debris, a lower CFM blower may be sufficient. Gas-powered blowers typically have higher CFM ratings than cordless electric models, but they are also heavier and louder.
Efficiency
Battery life is an important consideration for cordless leaf blowers. Most models have a runtime of 20 to 30 minutes per charge, but this can vary depending on the type of battery and the speed at which the blower is operating. If you have a large yard or need to clear a lot of debris, you may want to consider a model with a longer battery life or purchase an extra battery.
Usability
Variable speed leaf blowers allow you to adjust the airflow speed and power, which can be useful for different tasks. For example, you can use a lower speed setting to clear leaves from delicate plants or a higher speed setting to move heavy debris.
Portability is another important factor to consider, especially if you have a large yard or need to move the blower around frequently. Lightweight models are easier to handle and maneuver.
Comfort
Backpack leaf blowers are a good option for users who need to clear large areas or who have difficulty handling a handheld blower. Backpack blowers distribute the weight of the blower on your back, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
Noise level is another factor to consider, especially if you have neighbors or are sensitive to noise. Some leaf blowers can be quite loud, so it is important to choose a model that has a noise level that you are comfortable with.
Type
There are three main types of leaf blowers: cordless electric, gasoline, and backpack.
- Cordless electric leaf blowers are lightweight, quiet, and easy to use. They are a good option for small yards or light debris.
- Gasoline leaf blowers are more powerful than cordless electric models, but they are also heavier, louder, and require more maintenance.
- Backpack leaf blowers are a good option for users who need to clear large areas or who have difficulty handling a handheld blower. They distribute the weight of the blower on your back, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
Best Leaf Blowers for Specific Needs
- Best cordless leaf blower for large yards: Ego Power+ LB6003 Cordless Leaf Blower
- Most powerful cordless leaf blower: Makita XBU03SM1 Cordless Blower Kit
- Quietest backpack leaf blower: Ryobi 550 CFM 40-Volt Whisper Series Leaf Blower
- Best leaf blower for variable speed: Worx WG584 Cordless Leaf Blower
- Cordless leaf blower with the longest battery life: Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Backpack Leaf Blower
- Most comfortable leaf blower to use: Ego Power+ LB6003 Cordless Leaf Blower
- Best leaf blower for cleaning garden beds: Ryobi ONE+ 18V 100 MPH 280 CFM Cordless Battery Variable-Speed Jet Fan Leaf Blower
- Leaf blower with the highest CFM: Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Backpack Leaf Blower
- Leaf blower with the lowest noise level: Ryobi 550 CFM 40-Volt Whisper Series Leaf Blower
- Best gas leaf blower under $300: Echo 2-Stroke Cycle Handheld Leaf Blower