The Best Leaf Blowers for 2022
/
Best Leaf Blower
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There are affiliate links in this post. This means that at no cost to you, I will receive a commission if you purchase through my link. I will only ever promote the products and services that I trust and 100% recommend. You may read my full disclosure policy for more information. Thank you for supporting my business in this way.
When I think of the fall season I associate it with leaves changing into vibrant colors, a slight chill in the air, and the constant hum of leaf blowers. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best leaf blowers currently available.
UPDATED: September 13, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the DEWALT DCBL722P1 because it features a lightweight cordless design powered by the 20V MAX system, a high output of 450 cubic feet per minute, and is quieter than gas-powered options.
What is a leaf blower?
Leaf blowers are fairly simple pieces of equipment consisting of a motor, fan, and housing. The motor can be gas, battery, or plug-in powered (see more on this below). The housing consists of a nozzle that directs the moving air into a concentrated flow that allows it to move leaves, small branches, dirt, and other debris.
A blower offers a much faster and easier alternative to using a leaf rake or dust broom for cleaning large areas. It also works great both on and around hardscapes (sidewalks, driveways, patios, and decks) and softscapes (flowers, plants, soil, mulch, and grass). I have even found them really helpful for cleaning out gutters as long as the leaves are dry.
See also: The Best Gutter Guards
How do leaf blowers work?
Leaf blowers typically use either an axial or a centrifugal fan to generate the airflow. In an axial fan, the air is forced to move parallel to the shaft about which the blades rotate.
In a centrifugal fan, it moves air in a direction perpendicular to the incoming air. The fan blades are mounted on a circular drum that is mounted to a shaft that is powered by the motor. Air is brought into the center, turned at a right angle, sped up with the centrifugal force, then it is forced out of the end of the blower. You can see how it works in this graphic below.
The specific fan type will affect the final performance numbers of the blower. Generally speaking, centrifugal fans offer a lower flow rate and create a steadier flow of air. While on the other hand, they usually require more power than axial fans.
The way in which each fan type is mounted will change the overall form of the unit. So an axial fan will be mounted in-line with the nozzle resulting in a more streamlined form. While the centrifugal fan will be mounted on the side or bottom relative to the centerline. This creates a different center of gravity and positioning of the handle. Ultimately it comes down to a personal preference as to which configuration is best for you.
Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a specific model:
Methods of Power
There are three common methods of powering a blower, each with its own advantages and disadvantages to keep in mind:
Cordless Battery-Powered
Pros: Lightweight, quiet (relatively), able to take it anywhere.
Cons: Limited by how long the battery lasts.
Electrically Powered (Plug-In)
Pros: Lightweight, runs as long as needed.
Cons: Must be near a power source, range limited by the extension cord length.
Gas Powered
Pros: Runs as long as there is a supply of gas available, unlimited range.
Cons: Typically heavier, dealing with gas/oil, louder than other power options.
The longer I live in a neighborhood that religiously uses gas leaf blowers the more I recommend battery-powered and plug-in blowers. The noise pollution has even caused many counties in the United States to ban the use of gas blowers. Other than for professional landscapers that need to use them continuously for 8+ hours there is very little advantage a gas blower has over today’s quiet, clean electric units.
Speed and Volume
Take note of the cubic feet per minute (volume of air) and miles per hour (speed of air) rating of each particular model. The speeds will range from around 100 MPH up to 250 MPH and the volume from 150 CFM up to 600 CFM. There is typically a trade-off between power, cost, noise, and weight.
Depending on your particular needs you may prefer to go with a blower that is lightweight and lower-powered vs. a heavier more expensive model if you are using it mostly for dry leaves. However, if you need it for removing wet leaves, cleaning dirt of driveways, cleaning cutters, etc. you will probably want to select a model with a high CFM and MPH for maximum flexibility.
Variable Speed
Depending on the model, most blowers have a variable speed that is controlled through either the trigger or a dial on the side of the unit. This allows for greater flexibility when working on a range of leaves and debris from wet to dry.
Weight
Since you are often holding these blowers at awkward positions it is important to note the weight of the tool, as working with a heavy tool can quickly cause fatigue. For cordless leaf blowers, the weight provided by the manufacturer will often exclude the battery weight. So take into consideration the additional weight of the battery you will be using. Keep in mind that typically a higher voltage battery does mean a longer run time but at an increased weight.
Protective Equipment
As with most lawn and garden equipment, it is always a good idea to wear protective gear to prevent potential injuries. The fast-moving air can cause dust and debris to bounce around so it is best to wear eye protection, work gloves, pants, and boots. Also given the noise of even the quietest blowers, ear muffs or ear plugs are recommended for hearing protection.
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including DEWALT and BLACK+DECKER. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection. So whether you need to clear off your driveway, yard, or sidewalk this fall, these blowers will help get the job done.
So here is my list of The Best Leaf Blowers for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: DEWALT DCBL722P1 Cordless Leaf Blower
The DEWALT DCBL722P1 20V MAX provides the ability to clear debris with an air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute at 125 miles per hour with a concentrator nozzle.
Features a lightweight and ergonomic design for portability and extended use.
Includes a variable speed trigger and speed lock.
Equipped with a high-efficiency brushless motor for maximizing run time and motor life.
Designed with an axial fan to maximize both airflow and run time.
Features a minimal noise output during operation at 66 dB(A).
Check out this brief unboxing and demonstration video of the DEWALT DCBL722P1:
Runner-up: Worx TURBINE Corded Leaf Blower
The WORX WG520 features turbine fan technology that delivers a powerful performance with up to 600 CFM.
Creates air speeds up to 115 miles per hour.
Features a variable-speed control system.
Equipped with a dynamic airflow design that forces air in a streamlined motion.
Best Budget Option: Toro 51585 Corded Leaf Blower
This Power Sweep electric blower generates up to 155 CFM.
Features a lightweight design at just 4.6 pounds.
Generates a powerful airspeed of up to 160 mph.
Features two-speed air control for increased options.
Best for Mulching: BLACK+DECKER BV6000 Corded Leaf Blower
The BLACK & DECKER BV6000 features a 3-in-1 design that includes a blower, vacuum, and mulcher.
Features a 250 mph blower that is powered by a 12 amp motor.
Offers the ability to grind up to 16 bags of mulch down to just a single bag.
Equipped with two speed selections.
Features a tool-free design for quickly switching between the vacuum and blower.
Includes a built-in cord retainer keeps the extension in check.
Features an easy-empty reusable leaf bag.
Best Gas Powered: Husqvarna 965877502 350BT Leaf Blower
The Husqvarna 350BT features a unique lightweight backpack blower design.
Powered by the X-TORQ engine for efficient fuel use and lower emissions than previous versions.
Features ergonomically designed harness for increased comfort when in use.
Equipped with throttle controls mounted on the tube.
Best Lightweight Design: BLACK+DECKER LSW221 Cordless Leaf Blower
The BLACK+DECKER LSW221 20V MAX Lithium Cordless blower creates an airspeed up to 130 MPH.
Offers a lightweight design of only 3.7 lbs.
Features a design that minimizes noise that allows for quieter operation.
Powered by the 20V MAX Lithium Ion system.
Equipped with a battery that will hold a charge for up to 18 months.
Best Backpack Design: Poulan Pro PR48BT Gas Powered Leaf Blower
The Poulan Pro PR48BT is powered by a 48 cc 2-cycle engine to create high-velocity air speeds up to 200 mph.
Equipped with a load-reducing harness that is designed to reduce back strain.
Features adjustable shoulder straps for customized comfort.
Creates an airflow up to 475 CFM to easily remove leaves and debris.
Features a cruise control function along with variable speed control.
Equipped with a heavy-duty frame for long-lasting durability.
Includes a soft-grip handle for use over long periods.
Best Compact Design: Greenworks 24012 Corded Leaf Blower
The Greenworks 24012 Single Speed Electric Blower features a convenient lightweight design.
Powered by a 7-amp electric motor.
Operates at speeds of 160 mph to collect grass clippings and leaves in piles.
Equipped with a two-piece blower tube at 20 inches long.
Best Accessories: Toro 51621 UltraPlus Corded Leaf Blower
The Toro 51621T includes a shred ring design that works with the metal impeller to reduce up to 97% of mulched debris to less than 1/2 inch.
Features an oscillating nozzle kit that automatically sweeps the air back and forth making a wider blowing path.
Includes:
main blower tube - for dry leaves
power insert - for wet, heavy leaves
concentrator - use in corners and crevices
cord storage hook - store the cord by wrapping it around
bottom-zip vacuum bag
Best Value: BLACK+DECKER LB700 Corded Leaf Blower
The BLACK+DECKER LB700 corded blower features a 7-Amp Motor which provides a powerful and efficient blowing performance.
Can move up to 180 MPH and 180 CFM for fast and easy cleanup of leaves & debris.
Features built-in cord retention prevents frustrating interruptions during cleanup.
Weights just 4.4 lbs for easy one-handed use.
I hope this list of the best leaf blowers was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
