Comparing The Best Battery Powered Leaf Blowers
Having a lightweight battery powered leaf blower for your house or even an apartment is a great tool for quick cleanup of smaller areas with leaves grass clippings and other debris. Benefits to having a battery powered leaf blower is that they’re very easy to use, they’re very lightweight, and generally not that expensive. Another nice thing, depending on the leaf blower model you buy, is the batteries will most likely interchange with your current battery powered tool systems such as cordless drills and saws.
Not having a cord attached to the leaf blower gives you the freedom to do jobs all around your property in a much quicker time and much easier then with a corded leaf blower. It’s also nice not having to buy gas and fuel mixture, because as long as you have a battery charged you’re ready to blow.
These are my picks for the 5 cordless leaf blowers that you can easily pick up on Amazon.com and lots of other websites.
| Feature | DeWalt DCBL720 P1 | Milwaukee 2728-2 1 HD | Greenworks GBL80300 | Powersmith PBL140JH | EGO 56V Lithium-Ion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Air Volume (CFM) | 400 | Not specified | 500 | 450 | 580 |
| Air Speed (mph) | 90 | 120 | 125 | 120 | 168 |
| Battery Voltage | 20V | 18V | 80V | 40V | 56V |
| Runtime (minutes) | 25 | 45 | 70 | 20 | Up to 180 (efficiency mode) |
| Weight (lbs) | 7 | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Noise Level (dB) | Not specified | 63 | 60 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Included Battery and Charger | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Expensive |
| Additional Features | Speed Lock, Variable Trigger | Ambidextrous speed control | Push button start, Compatible with over 20 other Greenworks products | Cruise control | Boost button, Tapered nozzle |
| Customer Rating (Amazon) | Not specified | Not specified | 4.5 stars | Not specified | Not specified |
#1 DeWalt DCBL720 P1 20V MAX 5.0
First off I’m a big fan of all DeWalt products. Nearly all of the tools in my shop are DeWalt with the exception of maybe one or two. Their current 20 volt battery system is definitely one of the best on the market. With that said, I was very excited to try out this DeWalt cordless leaf blower and see how performed against other brands in its class. My first impression of the DeWalt dcbl720 P1 was how much power it had when you first pull the trigger. The axial fan design definitely maximizes the air output, as well as the run time.
The brushless motor is also great because it will extend the life of the motor. I really like the Speed Lock feature that will keep the variable speed trigger. You can set it exactly where you want it so you don’t have to hold the trigger down the entire time you’re using the blower.
This DeWalt battery power leaf blower is very lightweight even with the battery inserted. It’s so light at 7lbs even my kids can use it, which is nice because they couldn’t use my old gas leaf blower. So now I can put them to work in the backyard. I got about 25 minutes of constant blowing time with this DeWalt which is pretty good in my mind and will let me clean up just about any jobs I have in the backyard without having to change batteries.
The noise level with this blower is not unreasonable. With my old gas blower I always felt bad for the neighbors because it was so loud. However this DeWalt blower is relatively quiet by comparison. This DeWalt model is definitely one of my top picks and one you should put on your short list to consider. Read the full DeWalt dcbl720 P1 blower review here.
The DeWalt DCBL720P1 20V MAX 5.0 is a powerful and efficient cordless leaf blower designed for residential and professional use. With a 20V MAX 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery, this blower provides ample runtime to tackle various yard maintenance tasks. The high-capacity battery not only ensures extended usage but also delivers consistent power, making it suitable for both light-duty and heavier applications. The blower features a brushless motor, contributing to increased efficiency and durability while minimizing maintenance needs. Equipped with a variable speed trigger and a speed lock, users have precise control over the airflow, allowing them to adjust the tool’s performance based on the specific task at hand. The ergonomic design, coupled with a lightweight construction, enhances user comfort during prolonged use. Whether clearing leaves, debris, or grass clippings, the DeWalt DCBL720P1 20V MAX 5.0 offers a reliable and convenient solution for outdoor cleanup needs.
Top Features
- Highly efficient brushless motor
- Axial fan design for maximum air output
- 400 CFM and 90 mph performance on Turbo Mode
- Variable trigger Speed Lock
- 20 volt lithium ion battery and charger included
Needs Improvement
- Only 25 minutes of battery life at full speed
User Reviews
- John D.:
- “I’m a big fan of DeWalt, and the DCBL720 P1 didn’t disappoint! The power is impressive, and the lightweight design makes it easy for my kids to help with yard work. The battery life is decent, and I love the Speed Lock feature.”
- Sarah G.:
- “The DeWalt DCBL720 P1 is a game-changer! I appreciate the brushless motor for extended life, and the variable speed trigger with Speed Lock is a great convenience. The noise level is so much better than my old gas blower!”
#2 Milwaukee 2728-2 1 HD M18V Li-Ion
To be honest I haven’t owned a lot of Milwaukee products in the past. I’ve always been a DeWalt and Porter Cable Guy. But I have to say I’m definitely impressed with this Milwaukee 18 volt cordless leaf blower. The first thing I noticed is that it’s extremely quiet. Probably a bit quieter than the DeWalt actually. It’s rated at 63db, which is about 30% less than most gas leaf blowers.
You can tell when you pick it up at the construction is very solid. It’s a little bit heavier than the DeWalt, but not by much. The M18 fuel blower has enough power to blow leaves and debris from almost 15 feet. If you’re used to a gas powered leaf blower like a Stihl or Echo, you’re not going to be disappointed with the volume of air that this Milwaukee produces. With the big 18 volt battery, you can get 40 to 45 minutes of continuous run time. For me this is plenty to clean up after any lawn mowing or yard work job.
One nice feature that I really liked is the ambidextrous speed control which allows the blower to be set at a fixed power so you can relax your operating hand. I found that running the Milwaukee blower at about 80% power produced the best results. At full power this leaf blower scatters leaves and debris everywhere. I recommend keeping it about 75 to 80% for better control.
The Milwaukee is definitely more of an industrial/commercial style blower. However it’s still perfect for residential use and while it’s a little more expensive then some of the other blowers and its class you will definitely notice the difference in construction quality and power. Read my full review on the Milwaukee 2728-21HD blower.
Top Features
- 30% less noise than gas blowers
- Only 63 decibel noise rating
- Comes with blower, 18v battery and charger
- 45 minutes of continuous run time
- Professional grade
Needs Improvement
- Higher price point
- Heavier than other models
- Replacement batteries are a bit pricey
User Reviews
- Mike H.:
- “Switched to Milwaukee from DeWalt, and I’m impressed! The quiet operation is a winner, and the industrial-grade feel gives me confidence in its durability. The ambidextrous speed control is a thoughtful addition.”
- Emily S.:
- “Milwaukee 2728-2 is a powerhouse! It handles leaves and debris like a champ. The 45 minutes of runtime is perfect for my yard, and the build quality justifies the slightly higher price. Highly recommended!”
#3 Greenworks GBL80300 2400102
So on to our next leaf blower we have the Greenworks gbl80300 cordless leaf blower. I’ve tested some of the Greenworks products here on YardMasterz.com. Most recently one of their battery-powered lawn mowers. I have to say I was extremely impressed with the quality and performance of that mower so I was looking forward to testing out this cordless leaf blower to see if it lived up to the quality of their other products.
First, I really like the sleek-looking design of this Greenworks blower. It just looks pleasing to the eye before you even use it. This model also has a brushless motor which extends the life of the product and delivers performance close to a 32cc gas engine. The blowing power is about 500 CFM at 125 mph. You can blow dry grass and leaves as well as wet debris with absolutely no problem at all. The push button start on this model is somewhat unique. haven’t seen this feature in any of the other blowers I tested.
I managed to get about one hour of run time of continuous use using the fully charged 2ah battery that comes with this blower package. Like the other blowers I tested, the Greenworks was very quiet. I wouldn’t hesitate to use this leaf blower in the morning as I doubt the neighbors would even hear it if their doors and windows are closed. Another nice feature is that this battery system works with over 20 other Greenworks products. So if you own several, you only need one battery system for all of them.
With the cost of the batteries, it’s nice to know you only need to have a couple on hand for all of your tools. Just because Greenworks is a relatively new kid on the block for yard and power tools, don’t let that fool you into thinking they can’t compete with the old players. They’re making high quality products that are equally good for residential and professional use.All of this at a price point that won’t break the bank for most homeowners. Add the Greenworks gbl80300 leaf blower to your shortlist of battery powered leaf blowers to consider. Read my full review of the Greenworks GBL80300 here.
Top Features
- 70 minutes of battery life
- Quiet at 60 DB rating
- Tons of power at 500 CFM
- Highly efficient brushless motor with Turbo Mode
- Comes with 80 volt battery and charger
- 4.5 Star Amazon customer rating
- Top rated cordless leaf blower
Needs Improvement
- Not quite as durable as the Milwaukee blower
- Some users have reported batteries not holding charge
User Reviews
- David M.:
- “The sleek design of the Greenworks GBL80300 caught my eye, and it delivered on performance! Blowing power is fantastic, and the push-button start is a neat feature. The fact that the battery works with other Greenworks tools is a huge plus!”
- Jenna B.:
- “Quiet, powerful, and versatile! The Greenworks blower is a gem. I get a solid hour of continuous use, and it’s surprisingly quiet. The battery system compatibility with other tools is a smart move by Greenworks.”
#4 Powersmith PBL140JH 40V Max Leaf Jet
So prior to putting together this review I hadn’t heard of the Powersmith brand for battery-powered lawn care equipment. However, after looking at some of the products they have on Amazon and their customer reviews I was pleasantly surprised and decided to add this particular battery powered leaf blower to my top 5 list.
When the Powersmith blower arrived and I got to try it out for the first time the feel of it was very similar to the DeWalt blower. In fact the look is also very similar to the DeWalt blower. Immediately, I like the power output of this blower. This model is rated at 120 mph/450 CFM, and it definitely generates a good amount of wind with a fully charged battery. Again, like the other models, this unit has a brushless motor for a longer run time more power and more torque than brushed motors. In the end this just means less wear and tear on the blower and you’ll get more life out of it.
After using the Powersmith a few times I started to realize how much lighter it actually is than the other leaf blowers I tested. This is a great blower for older folks and even senior citizens who just want to blow off driveways and patios with some quick use. But even if you are a homeowner who needs to do some serious leaf or lawn clippings blowing, there’s no reason the Powersmith can’t handle the job with it’s large CFM output.
The one downside with this leaf blower is that I only got about 20 minutes of trigger time. So I would definitely suggest ordering a second battery if you decide to purchase this particular blower. It does come with a single 40 V battery and charger but a backup battery is recommended.
Top Features
- High efficiency brushless motor
- 120 mph/450 CFM power rating
- Extremely lightweight
- Comes with 40 volt battery and charger
- Cruise control
- Relatively inexpensive
Needs Improvement
- Longer run time would be nice
- Not professional grade
User Reviews
- Robert L.:
- “Powersmith is a hidden gem! It may be lighter than others, but don’t underestimate its power. Ideal for quick jobs, and the brushless motor is a bonus. I’d recommend grabbing a second battery for longer tasks.”
- Linda K.:
- “Perfect for seniors! The Powersmith is lightweight, easy to handle, and gets the job done. It’s not the longest runtime, but for small tasks, it’s a winner. The price point is reasonable, too.”
#5 EGO 56 Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Blower
Last but certainly not least on my list of the top 5 cordless leaf blowers for 2019 is the EGO 168 mph variable speed blower. this new EGO blower is one of the most powerful handheld blowers on the market delivering up to 580 CFM with its unique turbine fan brushless motor. The design of this blower is very sleek and lightweight. One of the best features is the tapered nozzle attachments which make clearing debris super easy. You’re probably not going to find this particular EGO model in most of the big box stores. This high-powered model I’ve only been able to find online. When I tested this blower for the first time the battery was only partially charged yet I was still able to clear away my back patio of leaves in just a couple of minutes.
The power this model produces is really unbelievable. And if that wasn’t enough it has a “boost” button to give you an even bigger blast of air. Now I haven’t tested this personally, but according to the manufacturer you can get up to 3 hours of runtime on this blower when you use the efficiency mode. The batteries do take a while to charge. Up to 90 minutes for the larger battery, but while the battery is charging there’s a fan that kicks on to keep the battery from overheating which is a great feature.
Yes the price tag is a little higher than some of the other EGO models, but you definitely get more bang for your buck with this unit. I’m guessing that even some professional gas powered blowers don’t have as much power as this 56-volt EGO blower does. If you don’t believe me just check out the reviews on Amazon as well. Everyone who’s purchase this particular blower has been shocked with the amount of power it has. Get this EGO and your neighbors are going to have blower envy..big time!
Top Features
- Most blowing power in its class
- 168 mph/580 CFM rating
- Brushless turbine fan engineering
- Variable speed control
- Up to 3 hours battery life
- Comes with 56 volt battery and charger kit
Needs Improvement
- Expensive price tag
- Long battery charging time
User Reviews
- Chris R.:
- “EGO’s blower is a beast! Unmatched blowing power, and the efficiency mode’s 3 hours of runtime is a game-changer. The boost button is a fun feature, and the tapered nozzle makes cleaning up a breeze.”
- Karen W.:
- “Expensive but worth it! The EGO blower is on another level. Clears leaves in minutes, and the variable speed control adds precision. Yes, it’s pricier, but the power and performance are unparalleled.”
Cordless Leaf Blower Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right cordless leaf blower for your particular needs shouldn’t be a complicated decision. yes there are quite a few makes and models on the market with varying price tags, but in the end nearly all of them have similar features. Here are just a few things you should consider before making your lower purchase. You’ll probably want to do is figure out how much you want to spend and next decide how much blowing you’re actually going to do. Personally, I have about a 1 acre yard with lots of trees, bushes, planters and obviously lawn.For my situation, a leaf blower with about 40 minutes of continuous run time is what I need to complete the jobs around my property. But if you just have a small patio and a driveway that you want to keep clean you can definitely choose a model with a little less power and a little shorter battery life. This will lower the cost and save you a few bucks.
Brief History of Leaf Blowing
The first leaf blower was actually invented in the early 1970s in Japan, and it later became popular in the United States.From there, so many gardeners began to turn to garden blowers to clear up accumulated debris in a short amount of time for their garden maintenance. Of course, everything did not go so smoothly because many city administrations began to ban larger leaf blowers because of noise violations. For this reason, take the opportunity to check out many different garden blowers on the market to make sure that they can give you the power that you are looking for with minimal noise issues.
Power/Speed
When looking at the performance of a battery leaf blower you definitely want to keep an eye out on the mph and CFM numbers. Both of these determine the volume and speed of air exiting the blower tube. Mph means miles per hour and CFM means cubic feet per minute. The higher the numbers on the particular model you’re looking at the more air the motor won’t push through the tube. Obviously you can blow heavier debris with a blower that has more power. If you are using it for heavy-duty landscaping then you will want to purchase a blower with higher air speed. For heavy-duty applications a blower with an air speed of at least 220mph is ideal. General yard work or moderate duty applications can easily be handled with air speeds in the 160-200mph range. Bear in mind that if you plan on blowing around delicate areas such as gardens, flower beds, etc, then you will need a unit with a low or variable speed option as well since the higher air speeds can easily damage these types of things. On the other hand, if you have acres of property to deal with, you might want to consider a more commercial option in a backpack blower which offers much more power and longer use.
Operating Modes
The second thing to consider is what operation modes you will need. If you also want to vacuum or mulch leaves and other yard debris then there are plenty of leaf blowers that can convert into vacuums or mulchers quite easily. Consumers with gardens or landscaping typically opt for a tool with these extra options and enjoy the benefit of shredding leaves into mulch for their landscaping. We recommend choosing a blower the vacuum and mulching options since the price difference between a standard blower and a ‘3 in 1’ blower is very small and they come with all the necessary attachments.
Sound rating
If you live in an area with an HOA, there may be noise level regulations on how much noise your yard equipment is allowed to produce. With the association before purchasing a leaf blower just to make sure you’re within HOA rules. With cordless leaf blowers being considerably more quiet than gas-powered blowers, I highly doubt you’ll have any complaints from your neighbors while blowing off your back patio. most of these blowers are rated around the 60 decibel range.Anything under 80 decibels is definitely a neighbor friendly blower. The noise level is definitely worth looking at on the model you’re considering purchasing.
Battery Voltage
The blower models I tested here had battery voltage ranging from 18 volts up to 80 volts. Generally speaking, the higher the battery voltage the longer the charge and blower run time will be. You will definitely pay more for an 80 volt battery blower versus a 20 volt battery blower. Depending on your needs you may just want to find a cordless leaf blower with a battery voltage somewhere in the middle. another thing to consider when it comes to batteries is your existing power tools. If you can purchase a blower that runs on the same battery system as your cordless drill and saws, he will likely already have some backup batteries at your disposal.
Weight
One of the biggest advantages to purchasing a battery powered leaf blower is the low weight. Traditional handheld gas-powered blowers and gas backpack blowers are extremely heavy and not always suited for Homeowner/residential use. A cordless leaf blower is perfect for small jobs around the house and is especially Suited for older people or individuals who are not strong enough to use a heavy gas powered blower. Most battery power blowers will weigh less than 10 lbs. Be sure to check the weight on the model you’re looking at and make sure it fits your needs.
[simple-author-box]
Cordless Leaf Blower Questions
- Q: How do cordless leaf blowers work?
- A: Cordless leaf blowers operate on rechargeable batteries. They use an electric motor to generate airflow, propelling leaves and debris away.
- Q: What types of batteries do cordless leaf blowers use?
- A: Cordless leaf blowers commonly use lithium-ion batteries due to their high energy density, lightweight design, and ability to hold a charge well.
- Q: How long does the battery of a cordless leaf blower typically last?
- A: Battery life varies depending on the model and usage. On average, you can expect a runtime of 20 to 60 minutes. Higher-capacity batteries may provide longer usage.
- Q: Can I use the same battery for different cordless tools from the same brand?
- A: Many manufacturers design their cordless tools with interchangeable batteries, but it’s essential to check compatibility between specific tools and batteries within the same brand.
- Q: Are cordless leaf blowers suitable for large yards?
- A: Cordless leaf blowers are suitable for both small and large yards. However, for extensive areas, it’s advisable to choose a model with a longer runtime or have an extra battery on hand.
- Q: How loud are cordless leaf blowers compared to gas-powered ones?
- A: Cordless leaf blowers are generally quieter than gas-powered models. They produce less noise pollution, making them more suitable for residential areas with noise restrictions.
- Q: Can cordless leaf blowers handle wet leaves?
- A: While cordless leaf blowers are effective for dry leaves, wet leaves can be more challenging. Some models come with variable speed settings, allowing you to increase power for wet leaves.
- Q: Are cordless leaf blowers easy to maintain?
- A: Cordless leaf blowers are generally low maintenance. Regular tasks include cleaning the air filter, ensuring proper battery care, and occasionally inspecting and tightening components.
- Q: Can cordless leaf blowers be used for purposes other than leaves?
- A: Yes, cordless leaf blowers can be versatile tools. Many models come with attachments for vacuuming or mulching, allowing them to handle various yard debris.
- Q: How do I store a cordless leaf blower during the off-season?
- A: Store your cordless leaf blower in a cool, dry place. Remove the battery for long-term storage, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for winterizing, if applicable. Regularly inspect and clean the blower before storing it.
Remember to refer to the specific user manual for your cordless leaf blower model for detailed information and maintenance instructions.
How Yard Masterz Reviews Products
We scour the internet for a diverse range of products and compile comparison lists developed by our experts in all product categories we work with. Yes, we do receive a commission on many of the products we review if you click and buy from a suggested retailer. However, we are never compensated for our reviews and we accept products or financial compensation for higher product placement on our lists. Our reviews & recommendations are unbiased and fair.
We regularly update and refresh our product reviews, so you’re getting the most up to date and accurate information possible. Whether it’s a cordless leaf blower or a patio table set, our experts are extremely knowledgeable about the products they test & review. You won’t find us suggesting products that are poor quality or inferior and we are not loyal to any particular brands. You will only find quality gear from manufacturers with solid customer service and established reputations. Learn more about our review process here.
Highlights
♦ Has extensive experience in content development for landscape designers, outdoor product manufacturers
♦ Contributing author at YardMasterz since 2016
♦ Contributes to leading industry print and online publications
Christian’s expertise in designing amazing backyards spaces can be seen in his writing. He offers objective, insightful ideas and assessments of products while conducting thorough research and testing.
- Green and Efficient: Your Ultimate Guide to Installing a Smart Sprinkler System - April 5, 2024
- A Comprehensive Comparison of Cordless vs. Gasoline Lawn Mowers - June 20, 2023
- How Cordless Lawn Mowers Work: A Comprehensive Guide - June 20, 2023