14 Most Powerful Battery & Gas-Powered Backpack Blowers for Home Use

W hen autumn rolls around, dealing with the scattered leaves in your yard most likely isn’t an enjoyable chore to do. Sweeping them too early in the morning might be inconvenient because of the morning dew that leaves them wet and sweeping them in the afternoon when they are dry might cause dust to slowly float into the air. This is why it’s worth investing in a special machine that will quickly blow them out of your way and into a nice pile in the corner of the yard to make them easier to deal with.

A backpack blower is forceful, efficient, as well as effortless to use, representing a reliable option for every homeowner. If you haven’t decided on a model yet, we have put together a list consisting of the best products on the market, ideal for helping you keep your surroundings clean.

How You Can Use the Fallen Leaves

After completing the task of clearing your yard of leaves, you’re going to end up with several piles that can now be collected more easily and put to good use. Leaves can bring many benefits to your yard and garden, but it’s up to you to use them to your advantage. And here’s how you can do that:

Create a home for small critters

It is a known fact that within the taller grass and leaf bedding that piles up around the base of tree trunks many critters can build themselves a home. In fact, this space can become a varied ecosystem if you choose to leave it alone, where ”salamanders, chipmunks, wood frogs, box turtles, toads, shrews, earthworms, millipedes, and thousands of insects species” can coexist. Just grab enough leaves to add around a tree so that they make a layer of at least two inches and add a decorative fence around it if you prefer a cleaner look.

Fertilize your soil

You can go about doing this in a few ways, but two of the most common are: Shredding and Leaf mold

The first approach is the faster one because all you have to do is either put the leaf piles through a shredder or run them over with your mower to cut them down and create smaller pieces that are easier to decompose. The second approach of making leaf mold will take longer, but the outcome will be worth it. What you have to do is to make a large leaf pile that you leave outdoors, and to prevent the wind from blowing it away you can add a wire mesh cover on it. After several months go by, you will see that the pile transforms into a nutrient-rich mush that you can spread wherever you see fit.

Protect your plants

Another thing that you can do is creating an insulation layer for your plants or younger trees. Simply anchor a few small beams into the ground around the plant or tree you want to protect, tie wire mesh to them, and add as many leaves as you can in between. This layer will protect the plant from the cold, from freezing temperatures, and from aggressive rainfall. Try not to overdo it though, because too many leaves can stifle the plants and create the opposite outcome.

Help your compost pile

Although you can add leaves to compost piles whenever, you can also keep a few bags and leave them to dry so that they can act as an emergency aid. Whenever you compost pile gets too wet and the excess moisture just won’t seem to go away, you can then add the dry leaves that will soak up the water and restore the balance once again. The fastest way to dry leaves is to leave them out in the sun as spread apart as possible.

Mulch

Mulch can either be a decorative add-on for your yard or it can be another type of feed. But other than a pretty view and added nutrients for you plants, the other benefits of layering them evenly are that the leaves will pick up any excess moisture and also act as a barrier for pesky weeds that feel the need to come through. Yes, you read it right, as long as you create thick and compact beddings, weeds will have a hard time pushing through or even growing at all.

Top Rated 14 Backpack Blowers Comparison

Photo	Product	Product Weight	Power Type & Motor	Maximum Speed	Maximum Air Volume	Features	Price
Best Overall	1. Makita BBX7600N	22.4 lbs.	Gasoline; 75.6cc	195 MPH	526 CFM	Solid State Ignition, Automatic Engine Decompression, Adjustable Padded Shoulder Straps and Back Panel	Check Price
	2. Echo PB-770T	21.6 lbs.	Gasoline; 63.3cc	234 MPH	756 CFM	Padded Backrest & Straps, Tube-Mounted Throttle & Cruise Control, Vented Back Pad, Dual-Stage Air Filtration
Editor’s Choice	3. Husqvarna 350BT	22.5 lbs.	Gasoline; 50.2cc	180 MPH	692.17 CFM	Air Purge, Offset Ergonomic & Adjustable Handle, LowVib (2.2 m/s²), Padded Harness, Cruise Control	Check Price
	4. DEWALT DCBL590X1	31.7 lbs.	Electric; Brushless	142 MPH	450 CFM	Speed Trigger with Lock, Two Battery Wells, Padded Harness and Back Support, Ergonomic Handle	Check Price
	5. Husqvarna 150BT	22.5 lbs.	Gasoline; 50.2cc	251 MPH	692.17 CFM	LowVib, Cruise Control, Adjustable Tube Length, Air Purge, Ergonomic Harness System & Handle	Check Price
Best for Commercial Use	6. Schröder SR-6400L	19.5 lbs.	Gasoline; 63.3cc	230 MPH	920 CFM	Padded Shoulder Straps and Back, Adjustable Handle	Check Price
	7. Powerworks BPB60L510PW	14 lbs.	Electric; Brushless	140 MPH	540 CFM	Axial Fan, Cruise Control, Boost Function, Padded Adjustable Harness, Low Vibration (1.9 m/s²)	Check Price
	8. Poulan Pro PR48BT	19¾ lbs.	Gasoline; 48cc	200 MPH	475 CFM	Cruise Control for Variable Speed, Soft-Grip Handle, Adjustable Padded Straps &Back, Angled Nozzle	Check Price
Best for the Money	9. EGO Backpack Blower	12.5 lbs.	Electric; Brushless	145 MPH	600 CFM	Variable Speed, Turbo Boost, Turbine Fan, Weather Resistant, Adjustable Tube Length & Harness	Check Price
	10. Troy-Bilt TB4BP	17.5 lbs.	Gasoline; 32cc	150 MPH	500 CFM	SpringAssist, Variable Speed Throttle & Cruise Control, Padded Harness, Ergonomic Throttle	Check Price
	11. Greenworks PRO BPB80L00	8.4 lbs.	Electric; DigiPro Brushless	180 MPH	610 CFM	Turbo Boost, Variable Speed & Cruise Control, Reinforced Handle, Adjustable Shoulder Straps, Low Vibration	Check Price
	12. Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43	17.4 lbs.	Gasoline; 43cc	190 MPH	550 CFM	Throttle Variable Speed, Vibration Absorbers, Adjustable Padded Shoulder Straps, Cushioned Back Pad	Check Price
	13. Craftsman CMXGAAMR32B	17.6 lbs.	Gasoline; 32cc	205 MPH	460 CFM	Fully-Tensioned Multi-Material Harness, Easy Start Technology, Tube-Mounted Lever, Throttle Variable Speed	Check Price
	14. Ryobi RY08420	18 lbs.	Gasoline; 42cc	185 MPH	510 CFM	Contoured Adjustable Harness, Downward Angle	Check Price

1. Makita BBX7600N

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The first unit we’re starting with comes from a brand that is well-known by power tool enthusiasts, and that is Makita. Therefore, the model comes with the brand’s teal color on the casing of the backpack and black on the rest of the parts. The dimensions without the pipe are quite compact at 13.7 by 16.9 inches and the weight comes at 22.4 pounds, again without the pipe, which means that you won’t be having such a hard time getting through your yard.

Engine Details

This tool works on gasoline and one of the best parts about its build is the inclusion of a 4-stroke engine, meaning that filling the 64.2 fluid ounce fuel tank will only require gasoline, not an oil and gasoline mix, so topping it off will be a breeze. The engine has a 75.6cc displacement with 3.8 horsepower and it reaches up to 7,200 revolutions in one minute to ensure an efficient run. It has a solid-state ignition and auto decompression to make the whole start-up process easier and, for added convenience, the oil port and the plug used for draining are strategically placed to be easier to access. The harness system is padded and adjustable to enhance your comfort and lower the risk of early fatigue during use. It also doesn’t cause you to get too hot thanks to the material’s design.

Performance Details

When it comes to the blowing power, this tool is ready to sweep any leaf off its ‘feet’ regardless of whether it is wet or if the unattended piles have been growing significantly around your yard. The maximum speed at which air gets out is 195 miles per hour and the air volume comes up to 526 cubic feet moved in just 60 seconds. Variation-wise, the speed is adjustable thanks to the throttle control sitting at the beginning of the pipe. The whole operation is relatively quiet at only 74 decibels, but when the engine idles it can barely be heard, making it ideal for residential use as well. The BBX7600N is covered by a limited warranty for 1 year from the day you purchase it.

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2. Echo PB-770T

Echo is up next with a medium-sized unit that weighs 21.6 pounds without the blower pipe. The build is made of sturdy materials and it sports a red and black design. The first visible features are the wide carrying handle, the flexible blower pipe, and the padding on the back support and adjustable shoulder straps. The back support also boasts ventilation to increase the wearer’s comfort. Other than being flexible, the pipe has a wide angle where it rotates to allow a swift passage to the air that is blown out and it also incorporates an air filtration with a dual stage.

Engine Details

The engine of the PB-770T is a gas-powered one with a power of 63.3cc. It is an air-cooled, two-stroke type, and so the fuel mix should contain the appropriate products. The capacity of the see-through tank is of 68.3 fluid ounces and in it there should be an unleaded 89 Octane gasoline type with a 50:1 mixing ratio. Once you start the motor, it will run at an RPM of 2,500 when it is idle and 6,700 RPM when it’s used at a wide open throttle.

Performance & Warranty

After starting the engine, you can adjust the speed at which it blows by using the throttle mounted on the tube and keep a steady run thanks to the cruise control. The maximum speed that you will be able to reach is 234 miles per hour, and the biggest air volume comes up to 756 CFM with 33 Newton at the nozzle, making this unit suitable for large yards or heavier debris. The noise level during operation averages at 73 decibels and, as always, we recommend using ear protection. If you intend to buy the PB-770T for commercial use, you can expect a 2-year warranty. However, if you need it for at-home use, a 5-year warranty will be granted.

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3. Husqvarna 350BT

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Up next we have our top choice, a second gas-powered unit and this one comes from Husqvarna, the yard maintenance expert. The unit comes with a weight and dimensions that come close to the previous Makita model, but that’s where the similarities end.

Performance

While it’s also a model that works with gasoline, this time the engine is an X-TORQ 2-stroke type with 2.1 horsepower, 7,500 RPM, and a displacement of 50.2cc. This power gives the unit the ability to blow out air at 180 miles per hour and put out a volume of 494.41 cubic feet in the pipe and 692.17 cubic feet in housing in a minute. The noise produced while you put this machine to good use isn’t all that bothersome either, as it only puts out 71 decibels that won’t pose a problem if you need to deal with excess leaves in a quiet neighborhood.

Features

The tank capacity comes at 42.27 fluid ounces to last you quite a bit and the machine is designed with a LowVib feature, namely dampeners that quiet down the machine, reducing the vibrations to 2.2 m/s². Comfort-wise, the 350BT has an adjustable offset handle with an ergonomic design to enable easier control and a padded harness that can also be adjusted to fit you properly during use. To add to the variety, you can either purchase the tool as it is or you can choose from one of the bundles available, namely the tool and a can of mixing oil, a gas can, or noise-canceling headsets.

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4. DEWALT DCBL590X1

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This tool from DeWALT might be the perfect choice for homeowners. First of all, it’s an electric device with a powerful, yet silent brushless engine that can provide you with a quick fix before any guests arrive, without you having to change into new clothes because the ones you have on won’t smell of gasoline. The fan offers an airflow of 450 CFM and a maximum velocity of 142 miles per hour, all while maintaining a low 63-decibel noise level. To keep things running, the package includes two 40 V 7.5Ah Lithium-ion batteries that offer up to 35 minutes of operation. A downside is that the charger provided can only hold one battery at a time and it will take one hour to charge.

As with every recommendation on the list, the DCBL590X1 has a strapped backpack that helps take the load off of your arms. The straps, as well as the back support, are generously padded and the extra horizontal strap in the front adds to the feeling of security during use. The handle with which you can maneuver the pipe and control the speed has an ergonomic design, similar to that of the smaller power drills made by the same company. The speed can be controlled in the sense that it is variable and there’s also a lock option to prevent an accidental switch of pace. The warranty covers 3 years from the first day of purchase, the average expectation in this field.

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5. Husqvarna 150BT

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A second entry from Husqvarna is the 150BT that shows off the same 22.5-pound weight, compact build, and is just as well a gasoline-powered unit. As you are using the tool, the fuel tank is positioned at your lower back and its semi-transparent build can allow you to see how much you have left of the 42.27 fluid ounce capacity. With that, you’ll have a runtime of a few hours of constant blowing per full tank. The engine is the same type as the one in the 350BT, namely an X-TORQ, but this one has 2.15 horsepower and runs at a lower speed of 6,100 RPM.

It delivers an impressive velocity, offering 251 miles per hour and airflow of 692.17 in the housing and 434 in the pipe. With this model, you’ll enjoy multiple speeds, according to your necessities, thus you can adjust its performance more practically. The unit ensures easy-starting, as well, and it can maintain a low noise level of 72 decibels. Moreover, the tube length is adjustable so that you can reach any area and corner. The unit features an ergonomic design, as well as a comfortable harness for your shoulders and back.

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6. Schröder SR-6400L

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Next on our list is a model from Schröder, a German company that specializes in the manufacturing of power tools. It comes with a backpack that is a tad larger, at 22 by 19 inches, and a tube that is quite long and comprised of two connecting parts. Luckily, its weight is lighter, at 19.5 pounds, and that is probably why the wearable system is only comprised of two straps. The shoulder straps have foam padding and adjustable buckles both at the top and at the bottom to provide a snug fit. They are connected to the integrated handle on top that is part of the back panel, which is also padded with sturdy foam to keep you comfortable.

The SR-6400L can work wonderfully in a commercial setting because it will put out an air velocity of 230 miles per hour, while the air volume will go up to an impressive 920 CFM. It will do a great job on any lawn, but it manages to impress even more on patios and other paved floorings where it pushes the leaves away as if they were dust. The noise level, however, is on the louder side and it is strongly advised that you wear a headset to keep your ears protected from the 98 decibels it emits. This model is gas-powered and it has a powerful 2-stroke 63.3cc engine with 3.7 horsepower, which means that you will have to do fuel mixing for it at a ratio of 50:1. The tank capacity is 65 fluid ounces, which is more than enough to help you get your work done. A useful feature is the fact that you can adjust the position of the control handle to suit your arm better. And the last important thing to mention is the warranty of 5 years that covers both at-home use and commercial use.

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7. Powerworks BPB60L510PW

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Powerworks brings forth our next electric contender that comes with the option of being purchased on its own or with a 60V MAX 5.0Ah battery and a charger pack. If you choose to go with the battery pack you will get a runtime of approximately 27 minutes on the highest speed provided by the boost function. It will do a great job at covering an area of up to ¾ of an acre, but the downside is the charging time that follows namely two and a half hours. The unit together with the tube comes to a 51.18 by 15-inch size but the weight is the third lightest from this top, coming at only 14 pounds.

The motor on this unit is brushless, therefore it makes a relatively lower operation noise of 80 decibels, and it works with an axial fan to provide higher efficiency. The air velocity it delivers comes at 140 miles per hour and the air volume is 540 CFM. As it operates, the tool is designed to keep a vibration level of as little as 1.9 m/s², and the speed can be adjusted thanks to the cruise control. Other perks of the BPB60L510PW include an adjustable padded harness and a warranty of 3 years from the first day of purchase.

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8. Poulan Pro PR48BT

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Poulan Pro offers a model that can easily take care of an area measuring half an acre, therefore it is appropriate for small business owners or for at-home use. Designed with a strong 48cc 2-stroke engine, the PR48BT can deliver an impressive air speed of 200 miles per hour, as well as powerful airflow up to 475 CFM. The noise level is quite high, at 96.7 decibels, so you should prepare yourself with ear-protecting gear before you employ the use of this unit. Also, to make sure that you are not harming the motor when you are filling up the fuel tank, the fuel mixing ratio should be 40:1 as opposed to the wrongly indicated 50:1 in the operation manual. The manufacturer also has the correct ratio listed on the website.

You can easily maneuver it even with the hardest tasks such as clearing humid, bulky leaves and grass. It features a lightweight design, at only 19¾ pounds, so that you can carry it all around the yard with ease. Furthermore, it comes with a variety of great features such as multiple speed options to choose from thanks to the cruise control, easy-grip knob, padded straps and back for comfort, and an angled nozzle for precision. If you choose to clean your yard with this versatile and comfortable tool, you will benefit from a 2-year warranty.

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9. EGO Backpack Blower

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The LB6000 model is a great solution for all those who want to clear their yards of leaves but not their wallets of money. This budget-friendly unit features a powerful brushless engine and an environment-friendly design. It is the ideal tool for homeowners who have gardens, patios, and lawns to look after, as it offers 15 minutes of battery life on the turbo speed setting, 22 minutes on high, and 180 minutes on low. That is thanks to the 7.5Ah battery it can use (any EGO battery is compatible), and while this model’s package doesn’t include it, the LB6002 version comes with a 5.0Ah one.

This EGO tool features multiple speeds, going from 260 up to 600 CFM, and a velocity of 145 miles per hour to provide you with a highly efficient clean-up. The operation noise is relatively low, at 82 decibels with normal use and 87 when the turbo function is in action. As it is weather-resistant, you can reliably use it even in harsh weather conditions as it will provide you with the same performance. The backpack is lightweight and it comes with an adjustable harness that is padded to keep you from getting sore. Also adjustable is the tube length, should you need to reach narrower spots. The warranty is another high point, as it covers the tool for a period of 5 years from the day you purchase it.

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10. Troy-Bilt TB4BP

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This Troy-Bilt model is another reliable option to consider if you need to perform yard cleaning duties at home. Delivering a maximum air volume of 500 CFM and a velocity of up to 150 miles per hour, it can easily get rid of small and large leaves and other debris. It features a motor with a displacement of 32cc, so with it, you’ll get the job done in no time. It’s also a 4-stroke type, therefore no fuel mixing will be required. A 2.2 horsepower will ensure a good output while the operation noise remains at a low 72 decibels.

To start it up without too much effort, you can use the integrated SpringAssist technology that makes cord pulling easier, but you can also purchase the JumpStart add-on separately that cuts out the need of pulling the cable altogether. The TB4BP is easy to handle and it comes with a variable throttle for better speed control. Related to design elements, it has an ergonomic feel, due to the suspension system that evenly distributes its weight and the padded harness that gives you the option of comfortable wear.

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11. Greenworks PRO BPB80L00

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This Greenworks PRO model is another electric entry, able to help you in the yard, patio, or any other space that has been conquered by piles of fallen leaves. It is powered by an impressive DigiPro brushless engine that can work on an 80V Lithium-ion 2.5Ah battery that brings an approximate runtime of 20 minutes and requires a 40-minute charge. As you could probably tell by that description, you will not find a battery in the package but you can opt for the pack that includes one and a charger.

It can reach 180 miles per hour in air velocity and airflow of up to 610 CFM. Because of the high airflow, the operating noise is 95 decibels. This speed is variable with the help of the cruise control and there is also a turbo boost option for when you’re in need of an extra push. The BPB80L00 is effortless to handle and carry thanks to its lightweight build of only 8.4 pounds without the battery and 12.9 pounds with it. It’s also very easy to start considering that it has no cord and you just have to press a single button. The tool comes with a 4-year warranty from the first day of purchase.

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12. Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43

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Moving along, we have a gas-powered model from Wild Badger Power that comes in a pleasant black and blue color combination, with the fuel tank being a semi-transparent white so that you can tell exactly how much you have left at any time. Its dimensions aren’t too large to impose and the weight it comes at is 17.4 pounds, making it relatively easy to carry. The motor is a 2-stroke with a 43cc displacement, so you will need to do fuel mixing for this one as well.

Performance-wise, through the 5-foot pipe, the WBBPBL43 can blow air at a maximum speed of 190 miles per hour with a volume of up to 550 CFM, bringing this unit’s power to a medium level. This speed can be adjusted with the throttle control and absorbers have been integrated into the design to keep the level of vibration down. Other features include a nylon frame that keeps the backpack protected from impacts, padded and adjustable straps, comfortable back support, and included tools and hardware. Last, but not least, the warranty on this piece is impressive, as it comes at 3 years for commercial use and 6 years for residential.

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13. Craftsman CMXGAAMR32B

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This Craftsman model is similar in size and weight to the Wild Badger Power model, but the difference is that it has been designed for small jobs. This 17.6-pound machine is gas-powered as well and it comes with a 32cc engine displacement. Another difference lies in the fact that it is a 4-stroke type, meaning that the need for fuel mix disappears and you’ll only have to use gasoline to fill up the tank. The blowing power of this unit translates into a 205 miles per hour velocity and a 460 CFM airflow. At these speeds, you’ll be able to successfully take care of a smaller yard or a patio.

Starting the engine is no hard feat and to control the speed you can make use of the lever that’s mounted on the tube featuring a convenient throttle. The strapping system of the harness that you have to use to keep the body of the tool on you is made from multiple materials that sit fully tensioned to provide a proper fit. To make sure that your purchase is free of defects, the manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty window during which you can send your unit to be checked, should the need arrive.

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14. Ryobi RY08420

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Our last contender is another unit that operates with gas. This Ryobi model is suitable for most jobs within an average-sized yard, because it’s both versatile and forceful, thus being a helpful unit for your gardening tasks. It comes with a 42cc motor that offers premium clearing efficiency and fast outcomes, and it is a 2-stroke type which means that fuel mixing will be needed. Moreover, said forceful engine delivers an air velocity of 185 miles per hour and an airflow of up to 510 CFM, so it will provide you with enough blowing speed to help you clear up your space.

The unit is perfect for homeowners and even for those who own small businesses. What’s great about it is that it’s an excellent pick for both beginners and advanced users, as it’s easy to work with. Furthermore, it’s comfortable and convenient due to the downward angle design. Plus, the back support contours to fit your body’s shape and the straps can be adjusted, ensuring steadiness during usage. It also has extra padding to make operation even more practical.

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Buying Guide

To help you pick the model that will suit your needs entirely, we have put together a list of the most important aspects that make up this type of machine. These are the same aspects that we used when deciding which models to pick for this comparison because they are conclusive and they tell you all you need to know about the unit you’re looking at.

Without further ado, the specifications you should keep an eye out for are:

The Weight

First and foremost, before even starting the unit you need to make sure that you are able to take it with you so that you can have it do its job. While this version of leaf blower is heavier than the handheld one, it is usually designed with an integrated harness or at least with two shoulder straps so that the weight can be evenly distributed on your back. The DeWalt DCBL590X1 is the heaviest model on our list and it weighs 31.7 pounds, whereas the lightest one is the Greenworks PRO BPB80L00 that weighs 8.4 pounds. The models in between have varying weights though, so we’re sure that you can find something that you’ll be comfortable with.

The Type of Motor

☺ With the gas-powered units, the higher the motor displacement, the higher the performance. A more performant engine brings with it higher air volume and faster speeds, but you will have to do more when it comes to operating it and doing maintenance work. Depending on the engine type you’ll either be able to add simple gasoline to fill the tank or you’ll have to provide a mixture of gas and oil using a certain ratio. The first option implies a 4-stroke engine, while the second a 2-stroke one. If you happen to add the wrong type of mixture or the wrong gasoline, the motor will most likely require a thorough and specific washing process, but if you also happen to start it before changing the fuel, you might end up having to deal with repairing or replacing the motor entirely.

☻ If the unit you go for is electric, you’ll have an easier time dealing with it as it works with batteries instead of fuel (this is the case with all of the models we’ve chosen). The two types of electric motors that you are likely to see with these power tools are brushed or brushless. Out of the two, the brushed option is usually cheaper and definitely quieter than the gas-powered one, but the brushless option is more powerful, long-lasting, easier to maintain, and even quieter than the other.

The Blowing Power

This aspect is something to look at when you know exactly what area you need to cover with the tool and it is the ‘CFM’ that everyone is talking about. For smaller areas and yards measuring less than one acre, you could confidently go for units that deliver a CFM between 200 and 400 because they will be able to handle that much space. For average areas that are between one and one and a half acres, a CFM between 500 or 700 would be appropriate, and for large to commercial areas, anything higher than a 700 CFM would be an appropriate pick. For example, with the Powerworks BPB60L510PW model that delivers a 540 CFM at 140 miles per hour you would be able to take care of ¾ of an acre (not a full acre because of the runtime that its battery offers).

The Blowing Speed

This aspect is a good thing to be aware of if you need to take care of heavier debris, large leaf piles, or heavy snow. The higher the number of miles per hour, the better the chance you’ll have of lifting everything from the ground to be able to blow it away. One issue is that you have to make sure that the number shown next to the CFM is not considerably higher than the MPH and vice-versa, if you want the tool to offer an even blowing action. Higher MPH and lower CFM can bring with it the risk of leaves that are blown away haphazardly, making the whole task take longer, whereas higher CFM and lower MPH can only do well in narrow spaces. So, the choice is yours to make depending on what you need the tool for. Some examples of even powered units are the Makita BBX7600N, the Husqvarna 150BT, and the Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43.

The Noise Level

This aspect is important to consider if you live in a residential area where making too much noise is generally frowned upon. To keep your neighbors happy, but also ensure that your ears receive as little damage as possible, go for a rating of 75 decibels or less. Remember that you’re going to have more luck with finding a quiet unit if you lean towards units with electric engines. Out of the picks on our list, the quietest one that’s also fit for smaller yards is the DeWalt DCBL590X1 with a rating of 63 decibels.

The Power Type

Whether you pick a gas-powered unit or an electric one, they both come with their respective pros and cons, and that’s what we’re going to discuss in the next fragment of this article. To put it simply, the electric type has plenty of advantages when it comes to being lighter, cheaper, quieter, easier to use, and it also promises fewer maintenance costs and a more eco-friendly operation. The gas-powered type has its perks too, and those are a more powerful performance and an overall longer runtime.

The Features

As not every tool is made the same way, some have added features that can make the user experience more pleasant, so let’s see what you can look for:

• Improved Harness System – this refers to extra padding on the back panel or the straps, but also to the presence of vents to keep sweating to a minimum
• Adjustability – of the harness; the control handle; the tube length
• Speed Control – variable speeds, cruise control, and trigger locks all help with customizing the blowing power or keeping a constant flow
• Low Vibrations – some models are designed to cut down on the amount of vibrations that they make as they run
• Carry Handle – a strong carry handle can help with both storage and when you need to do maintenance work

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Electric VS Gas-Powered

Should you go for an electric model, or should you opt for a gas-powered one? For most people, having multiple choices only lengthens the process of making a decision, time which could be spent actually using the tool. What we’ve found to be helpful in most multiple choice situations is a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of each option, so that is exactly what we’ve done here.

Below, we will offer you the information you need to know about both types so that you can decide and choose the best-fitting one:

Costs

• Regarding this aspect, we must admit that the electric type has the upper hand. Costs can be a deciding factor for most homeowners, therefore they might lean towards the electric models that are usually less expensive than the gas-powered ones. So, if a smaller budget is something you have to keep in mind, we recommend you choose an electric option. Moreover, their maintenance is generally low, so they do not imply any extra costs after longer periods of use. The reason for that is that their engines are usually belt-driven and brushless, details which lower the risk of breaking down.

Runtime

• ☻ Electric leaf throwers can come in two options: corded or cordless. With the corded option you won’t have to worry about the runtime unless there’s a blackout, but the downside is that you can be restricted by the cord length in terms of the area you can reach or the movements you can make. The cordless option works with batteries, which means that the runtime will be restricted, and the battery can empty out even faster if you switch in between speeds a lot or only work with the highest one.
• ☺ Meanwhile, in the case of gas-powered leaf throwers, these are more powerful and can provide longer runtime compared to the battery-powered ones. Although, unlike the cord-powered ones, the gas also runs out at some point and while a bigger tank will mean a longer runtime, it can also mean a heavier weight.

Ease of Use

• ☻ The electrical type is relatively easy to use, as you only need to make sure that the battery is charged, set in its place, and then you can press the button to start it. As mentioned, since this type is lighter it will be easier to maneuver it and seeing how the ones in our comparison are cordless there will be no movement restriction. The only inconvenience is the fact that you have to wait in between charges, but that can be solved if you acquire a backup battery.
• ☺ The gas type comes with more steps for you to take before you can start it. First you have to check what kind of gas it needs, how it needs to be mixed, mix it, add it to the tank, and then start the motor. The fuel adds to the weight of the unit and it also adds an extra smell to the whole experience – some people enjoy it while others don’t care for it. Unless you finish your work with leftover fuel, refilling the tank will require the same steps. The movement during use is just as with the battery option, unrestricted, however you will have to mind the wind because it can bring the fuel exhaust back in your face.

Efficiency

• We can all agree that we want a performant, efficient blowing power to handle and use easily. Regarding this aspect, by putting together the pieces of information we’ve went through so far, we lean towards the gas-powered ones because they are more productive and generally provide more power than the electric ones. Yes, the pros of the electric models do sound appealing, but in our case, we prefer going for a blower that can offer more force to get the job done faster. Some more expensive electric models can bring the same benefits though, so if your budget allows it and you prefer a lighter option that won’t involve a gasoline smell, then by all means go for it.

Eco-friendly

• Finally, one of the main drawbacks of getting a gas-operated model is that it is less eco-friendly than an electric one. The engine emits a considerable amount of chemical compounds that are harmful, so both for your own health and the environment have to suffer consequences. Other downsides are the louder noise level and the fact that you will most likely need to change your clothes each time you use a gas unit because the scent will transfer and cause you to smell like a refinery.

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How to Safely Use a Backpack Blower

Considering that all power tools have been invented specifically to help you avoid overexerting yourself by having to use quite a lot of force for extended periods of time, it is implied that they hold a higher level of power. Therefore, to make sure that you get the most out of this type of tool without causing any accidents, you should have in mind the following:

• In the case of gas-powered units, fueling must always be done while the tool is on the ground and any bit that spills over must be wiped thoroughly before you strap it on your back. By choosing to put the unit on an elevated surface you can risk knocking it over, leading to a serious spill of gas which can affect the area – especially if it spills on soil. The reason why you should wipe away any bit of spills at the top is because it can be a fire hazard that is sitting right on your back.
• Wear protection gear. The powerful blowing of air coming out of the tube is the main culprit behind injuries, therefore using safety glasses, gloves, protective shoes, and clothes that cover you up will limit the risk of having debris blow into your eyes or other body parts. Keeping your ears safe from the loud noise is recommended, so make sure you also have earplugs or a headset on you. Another measure that you can take to keep yourself safe is using a mask that can keep the exhaust fumes away from your mouth and nose.
• Clear the area that you are about to cover before you start the machine. Glass pieces, acorns, pebbles, and other debris can easily be thrown, at speeds that are notably great, and hit your home, or worse, another person or your pets. Start by raking your lawn to bring any heavier objects to the surface to be picked up and then – if possible – go over the area again with the blower on the lowest setting to see if there are any more concerning items hidden in the grass.
• Make sure that everyone knows not to stand near you or go in front of the tube as you are using the machine and don’t, under any circumstance, point the blower towards any animals in your yard. If you do so, the risk of having debris fly into their eyes (which can cause serious damage) is high. If you do see someone approaching you, turn the speed down and stop the engine.
• Lastly, don’t forget to turn off the unit after you are done using it or when you are taking a break. This should be done to avoid having it start randomly if the trigger is pressed by accident. If the model you’re using features a trigger lock, make sure to engage it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Hoping that our guide helped you compare the products, the final decision is certainly based on your particular needs. However, all the products presented above are reliable options, suitable for various types of applications. We have selected and compared the best brands on the market that offer high-quality items, which have been further tested by our team of reviewers. If you’re not sure which one to pick yet, take a second look at these options:

Best Backpack Blower for Sale: Makita BBX7600N

If you intend to buy one for several different purposes, this Makita model will definitely check off all the boxes. This is because of the impressive motor and high blowing speed, which ensure there will be no leaf remaining in sight. Moreover, the long tube is another convenience to consider, as it allows you to reach a farther area without moving too much.

Editor’s Choice: Husqvarna 350BT

Our favorite, the 350BT can provide enough power to help you get everything done fast and in a very efficient manner. It comes with a high air volume, a comfortable harness, low vibration during operation, and a low noise level that will make the experience as pleasant as possible.

Best Backpack Blower for the Money: EGO Backpack Blower

If you need to go around a smaller budget but still find that a leaf blower is a necessity, the EGO model could be exactly what you need. It’s an electric unit with a brushless motor that is also lightweight, therefore it implies a comfortable use. It comes with great blowing power, variable speed with a turbo boost feature, and the long warranty will keep it covered against any possible defects.

Best Backpack Blower for Commercial Use: Schröder SR-6400L

If you need a model that can handle commercial-level jobs, the SR-6400L is the answer. Its high-performing motor has 3.7 horsepower and will deliver an outstanding air volume of up to 920 CFM. Its fuel tank can hold enough to provide a long runtime, the unit is lightweight, and the 5-year warranty is provided no matter if you use it at home or commercially.