The Best Backpack Leaf Blowers of 2024 to Keep Your Yard Looking Pristine, Tested
Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Backpack Leaf Blowers of 2024 to Keep Your Yard Looking Pristine, Tested and hope the blog can help you.
Put down your rake and pick up one of these powerful landscape helpers. A backpack leaf blower will make quick work of messy yard debris.
With a backpack leaf blower, yard cleanup is a snap. Leaf blowers make quick work of removing fallen leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and other debris from a property. Leaf blowers with adapter pipes can even clean rain gutters. A leaf blower can help speed up many projects to save time on yard work. With so many models on the market, deciding on which one to buy can be a challenge. To help, we tested the best backpack leaf blowers in several different categories.
Whether your yard is large or small, or whether you prioritize lower emissions, higher air velocity, or the least amount of noise, there’s probably a leaf blower that fits the bill for those needs. Brad Saunders, president of Heroes Lawn Care, a lawn care services company that services areas throughout the U.S., says first and foremost, shoppers will want to think about the amount of power and airflow they’ll need: “If you’re dealing with a lot of leaves or heavier debris, you’ll want something with a higher cubic feet per minute (CFM) to move those large piles efficiently and a good mile per hour (mph) to really blow things away.” Then take power source, weight, ergonomics, and sound level into account. And finally, think about the bells and whistles. “Some blowers come with attachments for vacuuming or mulching,” he says. “Variable-speed settings are also a nice touch, allowing you to adjust the power depending on whether you’re clearing a lawn or just tidying up a patio.”
Our favorite in testing was the Husqvarna 360BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower for its outstanding performance and value. Plus, its engine design reduces exhaust emissions by up to 60 percent and also increases fuel efficiency by up to 20 percent. The list below represents extensive research into more of the best backpack leaf blowers on the market and our reviews based on our hands-on tests.
- BEST OVERALL GAS: Husqvarna 360BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST OVERALL BATTERY: Ego Power+ LBPX8004-2 Commercial Backpack Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Poulan Pro PR48BT Gas-Powered Backpack Leaf Blower
↓ Jump to Review - RUNNER-UP: Echo PB-9010T Backpack Leaf Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR HOME USE: Worx Nitro 80V Cordless Backpack Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LIGHTWEIGHT BATTERY: Greenworks 80V 610 CFM Cordless Backpack Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LIGHTWEIGHT GAS: Ryobi 175 MPH 760 CFM 38cc Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR LARGE YARDS: Echo PB-580T Backpack Leaf Blower
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy a Backpack Leaf Blower
Before buying a backpack leaf blower, it’s smart to check out regulations that might be in place with the local or state government or in a homeowners association. Noise is a factor that is a growing limitation to the use of leaf blowers. In many areas, regulations do not allow the use of loud equipment in neighborhoods during certain times of the day or week. Be sure that it’s OK to operate a leaf blower, which typically produces sounds between 65 and 100 decibels (dB), at the time of day and day of the week when you typically do yard work. If not, you will need to decide between raking and working at a different time.
The other big concern is the increasingly regulated use of 2-cycle engines. Even the cleanest gas lawn equipment engines that comply with California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations pollute significantly more than the combined power plant emissions produced when charging batteries. Some states and cities have declared a moratorium on gas-powered lawn equipment. If the window on use of fossil fuels in your area is closing soon, it might make the most financial sense to go electric now rather than buying gas equipment only to replace it in a year or two.
Finally, be sure to consider the potential health side effects of using a backpack leaf blower. In a commercial setting, anyone operating a leaf blower is expected to wear hearing and eye protection. In some conditions, a dust mask may also be required. Private users are strongly advised to do the same. Also, because hearing is impaired by blower noise, it is smart to wear high-visibility clothing and walk with oncoming traffic in front of you whenever operating a leaf blower in the street.
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 10 |
| Time spent testing | 10 hours |
| Tests performed | 4 to 5 |
| Price range | $290 to $700 |
Our Top Picks
We tested the industry’s best backpack blowers in our own backyard test course. Whether you maintain a large or small property, and whether you need more power or less noise, you might find just the right fit on this list of some of the best backpack leaf blowers on the market.
Best Overall Gas
Husqvarna 360BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Comfort 4.5/5; Performance 5/5; Noise 3.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Power source: 65-cubic-centimeter (cc) 2-cycle engine
- Airflow: 890 CFM, 232 mph
- Weight: 23.2 pounds
What We Like
- Professional-quality top air movement but average noise levels
- Low-profile suspension system with dampeners to reduce vibrations
- Large fuel tank extends runtime without need to refill
- Reduced emissions compared to other gas blowers
- Good fuel efficiency
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier than other models, though operation was comfortable
- Bulky profile is not as easy to store away
The Husqvarna 360BT gas-powered backpack leaf blower is a good all-around pick for large or small landscapes at a midrange price. The 65cc 2-cycle X-Torq engine pushes up to 890 CFM of air at 232 mph for general landscape cleanup. This machine weighs 23.2 pounds and comes equipped with a 74.4-ounce (0.58-gallon) fuel tank. Its engine noise level was about average compared to the others we tested, and it was easy to start and comfortable to carry. This blower truly excelled in air movement, outperforming all the others we tested on a price-to-performance comparison.
Although this is a gas model, Husqvarna’s X-Torq engine design reduces exhaust emissions by up to 60 percent and increases fuel efficiency by up to 20 percent. Dampeners between the engine and chassis reduce vibrations. The padded harness and hip belt are shaped to fit the contours of the operator for more comfortable operation. The offset handle makes the blow force easier to control, preventing arm strain and fatigue. The variable-speed throttle with cruise control can be set for easier handling.
Get the Husqvarna backpack leaf blower at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Northern Tool + Equipment.
Best Overall Battery
Ego Power+ LBPX8004-2 Commercial Backpack Blower
Photo: lowes.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.3/5;Comfort 5/5; Performance 4.3/5; Noise 5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Power source: Two 56-volt (V) 6-amp-hour (Ah) batteries
- Airflow: 800 CFM, 190 mph
- Weight: 29 pounds
What We Like
- Most powerful battery-powered backpack leaf blower we tested
- Well-padded harness system includes sternum strap and hip belt
- Excellent runtime per charge: 120 minutes on low; 25 to 30 minutes on high
- IPX5-rated weather-resistant
What We Don’t Like
- More expensive and less powerful than commercial gas-powered models
- More than 2 pounds heavier than the heaviest gas-powered leaf blower we tested
Lots of folks want to cut back their reliance on gas equipment, but cordless leaf blowers are often short on power and runtime. The Ego Power+ commercial backpack blower has risen to the challenge. Powered by two 56V 6 Ah rechargeable batteries, the 1,900-watt brushless motor generates power equivalent to a 60cc gas engine. It pushes up to 800 CFM of air at speeds up to 190 mph. And unlike the competition, it runs a long time per charge: 25 minutes on the highest power setting and up to 120 minutes on low.
The first thing we noticed about the Ego Power+ LBPX8004-2 was its weight. At 29 pounds with the batteries installed, it was about 2 pounds heavier than the heaviest 2-cycle leaf blower we tested. Thankfully, it also came equipped with an extremely well-padded adjustable harness system that included both a hip belt and sternum strap to lighten the load. Once we strapped in, the weight wasn’t bad at all.
As far as actual blowing performance goes, this was the strongest battery-powered leaf blower we’ve tested. We used it to clear fallen leaves off 5,000 square feet of lawn in less than 20 minutes and blew a gallon-size pile of damp sand off the driveway in 41 seconds. It was right up there with the Stihl BGA 300 backpack leaf blower at 26 newtons of blow force, but the Stihl weighed even more (38 pounds) and had a less convenient battery charging system. Combined with its high cost, higher weight, and battery limitations, the Stihl didn’t make our list of top picks.
The Ego Power+ commercial blower came with a dual charger that recharged both batteries in just 90 minutes. And the batteries are compatible with all Ego Power+ cordless tools. For residential as well as medium-duty commercial jobs, this could be a really good pick.
Get the Ego Power+ backpack leaf blower at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Amazon (tool only).
Best Bang For The Buck
Poulan Pro PR48BT
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Comfort 5/5; Performance 3.5/5; Noise 3/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Power source: 48cc 2-stroke engine
- Airflow: 475 CFM, 200 mph
- Weight: 22 pounds
What We Like
- Lighter-than-average gas blower with comfortable suspension system
- Budget-friendly price point for a reliable tool
- Fuel efficient: lower operating cost and longer runtime per fill-up
- Great choice for dry leaves, grass clippings, and other lightweight debris
What We Don’t Like
- Only moderate air volume; less effective on heavy, wet debris
- Sticky throttle trigger doesn’t accelerate smoothly
The Poulan Pro PR48BT was a strong performer at an extremely competitive price point. At the lowest overall price, it took sixth place in our price-to-performance comparison. Its 48cc 2-stroke engine pushes 475 CFM at 200 mph. Weighing just 22 pounds, this model was lighter than its gas-powered competition, which averaged more than 23 pounds. The PR48BT comes with padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a heavy-duty frame. The variable-speed throttle has a cruise-control feature to reduce operator fatigue.
Poulan Pro tools are generally known for fair quality at a budget price, and in our tests, this blower equals or outperforms that reputation. It started easily, ran smoothly, and was comfortable to carry. The airflow was adequate for dry or damp leaves and grass clippings but not great for heavily matted or wet, heavy debris. Also, the engine runs noticeably louder than the other blowers we tested, so be sure to wear hearing protection during operation.
Get the Poulan Pro backpack leaf blower at Amazon or Tractor Supply Co.
Runner-up
Echo PB-9010T Backpack Leaf Blower
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Comfort 3/5; Performance 5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Power source: 79.9cc 2-cycle engine
- Airflow: 1,110 CFM; 220 mph
- Weight: 26.7 pounds
What We Like
- Most powerful backpack blower with 48 newtons of blow force
- 2-stage air-filtration system extends engine life
- Large 83.8-ounce fuel tank ideal for extended use
- Deep padded shoulder straps and vented back pad improve user comfort
What We Don’t Like
- Small opening on the fuel tank makes it harder to fill without spilling
- Heaviest gas-powered backpack blower we tested
- Has no hip belt or sternum strap to reduce user fatigue
A top performer among gas-powered commercial models, the Echo PB-9010T commercial backpack blower offers the most blow force and longest running time of all the machines in our test group. Its powerful and efficient 79.9cc 2-cycle engine complies with CARB emission standards while driving an intense blow force of 1,110 CFM at 220 mph. And its 83.8-ounce (0.65-gallon) fuel tank virtually eliminates stops for refueling on all but the very largest properties.
In our tests, the Echo PB-9010T took first place in both of the timed tasks, rounding up 5,000 square feet of leaves in just 12 minutes and removing a gallon-size pile of damp sand in just 14 seconds. The noise level was a few decibels higher than the Husqvarna and Stihl blowers in the test group. It also weighed a couple of pounds more.
The harness system was fine but came with no hip belt or shoulder straps to reduce the load on the user’s shoulders, although the shoulder straps were very nicely padded. When we brought it along on an all-day landscape cleanup project, the giant fuel tank held enough mixed gas to disperse clumped grass clippings and clear pavement the entire day without running out. This model is an excellent option for those who prioritize production above all else.
Get the Echo PB-9010T backpack leaf blower at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best For Home Use
Worx Nitro 80V Cordless Backpack Blower
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.3/5;Comfort 4/5; Performance 4.3/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Power source: Four 20V 4 Ah batteries
- Airflow: 800 CFM, 150 mph
- Weight: 23.6 pounds
What We Like
- Pushes a lot of air; efficiently cleans up dry leaves, grass clippings
- Offers adequate runtime for properties of up to a half acre
- BaseCamp battery pack also powers the Worx Nitro 80-volt cordless lawn mower
What We Don’t Like
- Lower air speed is less effective for moving heavy, wet debris
- Operates at a higher noise level than other battery-powered blowers
Even on small to midsize properties up to a half acre, a backpack blower can be a helpful labor saver. The Worx Nitro backpack blower, powered by the BaseCamp battery pack, uses four 20-volt 4Ah batteries to generate airflow up to 800 CFM at 150 mph with 20 minutes of runtime on the highest setting, or 230 minutes on low. In our timed tests, it cleared fallen leaves off 5,000 square feet of lawn in 25 minutes and dispersed a 1-gallon pile of sand off the driveway in 67 seconds.
Although it was not the lightest, most powerful, nor least expensive battery-powered backpack blower we tested, the Nitro backpack blower delivers enough power and runtime for smaller yards. It rated near the top in operator comfort. The harness system was well padded and extremely supportive, and the motor and battery pack fit closely to the back, which made it easier to maneuver compared to big bulky gas models.
We also appreciated that the BaseCamp power pack uses the same interchangeable 20-volt PowerShare batteries found throughout the Worx ecosystem, and that it is compatible with the Nitro Cordless Lawn Mower. For a balance of comfortable operation, efficient power sharing, compact storage, quality, and performance for smaller properties, the Worx backpack blower makes a great option.