10 Best Backpack Leaf Blowers
Tidy Your Lawn for the Summer with one of these Backpack Leaf Blowers
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The best backpack leaf blower will let you drift around your yard and tackle those hard-to-reach spots. Yard cleanup becomes a breeze when you have the freedom to move, twist, and turn while using your leaf blower. With a backpack blower, the unit’s weight is evenly distributed across your shoulders for a comfortable fit. It also frees up your hands and arms so you can quickly move obstacles (like yard furniture or a gas grill) out of the way. You won’t have to bend down and set the blower on the ground as you do with a handheld leaf blower.
Backpack leaf blowers are small powerhouses with more get-up-and-go than your standard handheld models. Typically, the air velocity on the highest quality backpack leaf blowers exceeds 200 MPH, and the CFMs easily reach three digits. This impressive power lets you effortlessly move leaves, pine needles, and stuck-down debris.
There’s a great range of backpack leaf blowers available from many different manufacturers. You’ll find 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine varieties along with gas and battery-powered models. In some instances, you’ll even encounter newer electric and cordless varieties. When creating this product review and buyer’s guide, we looked into a variety of factors to choose the top picks: power, run time, airspeed, air volumes, comfort, noise levels, engine specs, and ease of use.
When fall arrives, and the landscape quickly becomes covered in a blanket of leaves, it’s time to break out the leaf blower. If you want to make the task quick and easy, it’s best to bypass the handheld blower and opt for one of the best backpack leaf blowers to get the job done right. With a tank of fuel or a fully charged lithium-ion battery, you can complete any chore quickly and efficiently.
We’ve researched ten of the best backpack leaf blowers and gathered them for you below. They offer stand-out features whether they’re gas-powered or battery-powered. The backpack blowers in this buyer’s guide make leaf cleanup effortless.
View the Best Backpack Leaf Blower, Below.
- Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
- Makita EB7660WH Backpack Blower
- Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43 Backpack Blower
- Echo PB-580T Backpack Blower
- Poulan Pro PR48BT Backpack Leaf Blower
- Greenworks 80V Cordless Backpack
- Husqvarna 570BTS powerful X-Torq
- Echo PB-770T Backpack Blower
- Makita EB5300TH Backpack Blower
- LawnMaster NPTBL31AB Backpack Blower
1. Husqvarna 150BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
The Best Leaf Blower for Homeowners
The Husqvarna 965877601 150BT Leaf Blower is powerful yet remarkably lightweight. Unlike large commercial blowers, this model is designed specifically with the homeowner in mind, especially if you own a large piece of property. The low weight and ease of use make this model one of the best choices.
The robust Husqvarna X-Torq engine has been designed to offer optimum fuel efficiency paired with low emission. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for anyone who cares about the environment. The unit's adjustable harness fits a variety of body shapes, from large to petite. The Husqvarna has ergonomic controls that also add to the wearer's comfort. This gas backpack feels good on your shoulders, making it one of the most impressive blowers on the market for comfort, ease of use, and power. The Husqvarna company believes fully in their product, so they back it with a two-year warranty.
The power of the Husqvarna is impressive and feels good to operate. In addition, we also like the model's weight of 26.5 pounds. The noise decibel rating holds at 94 dBA, making it acceptable for use in a residential area. The 42.27 oz. fuel tank capacity means you should be able to easily use this blower most of the day without having to worry about refilling the gas tank.
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2. Makita EB7660WH Backpack Blower
The Best Leaf Blower for Comfort
A nice feature about the Makita EB7660WH Backpack Blower is the anti-vibration mounts positioned between the engine and the frame. With reduced vibration, your arms, shoulders, and muscles don't become as tired. Couple the anti-vibration feature with nicely padded shoulder straps (that continue to retain their shape even after you take off the unit), and you have a wonderfully comfortable tool.
Users who live in a residential area will appreciate the large capacity muffler, which operates at only 76 dBA. This model leads as one of the best backpack leaf blower models on the market. One of the most stand-out features is the hip throttle - it nice cruise control that boasts an on/off switch.
Anyone who has used a leaf blower knows that there is often a great deal of frustration when it comes to starting the unit. However, this model features a mechanical automatic engine decompression, making start-up easy. The efficient motor doesn't skimp on power, but it's also wonderfully fuel-efficient with a 75.6 cc (3.8 HP) MMR engine. It's considered commercial grade for toughness and reliability.
The leaf blower has an impressive 75.6 cc commercial-duty 4-stroke engine that reaches an airspeed of 206 MPH with an air volume of 706 CFM. The engine starts easily with its automatic engine decompression.
Don't let the engine's power scare you when it comes to sound - this backpack leaf unit has a large capacity muffler that helps enforce the quiet operation of only 76 dBA. You'll still need hearing protection, but the unit is at an acceptable level that you can easily use in a residential area.
Another thing that we cannot overlook is that the backpack blower only weighs 24.5 pounds. This is remarkably lightweight for so much power. This model is clearly one of the leading blowers on the market, making it a 'must-consider' when shopping.
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3. Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43 Backpack Blower
Best Value for Money
If you have a big job ahead of you, then the Wild Badger Power WBBPBL43 Backpack Blower might be your best choice to tackle the task. It has a 2 stroke full crank and is 43 cc. If you're looking for something lightweight, this is one of the best leaf blower units you can buy - it weighs only 17.4 pounds. You'll barely know it's on your back. Don't let the blower's weight fool you, though. It packs a heck of a punch and will move leaves, pine needles, and debris with ease when you opt to use it on any landscape task. The tool is hugely impressive.
With 550 CFM and 190 MPH, this is not a powerless model even though it isn't physically robust. Undoubtedly, impressive things come in a small package. The frame is made from high-impact nylon that is fashioned to optimize durability.
The killing shock absorbers help make the double frame bearable along with the fully padded shoulder straps. There is even a cushioned back pad that you mount the leaf blower onto. This provides comfort for your spine and absorbs the engine's weight and movement.
This model's air tube is a little over 5 feet but will deliver an impressive blast of air when you use it. The tool has an adjustable throttle control with a lock lever that is impressively easy-to-use.
If you're researching powerful blowers, then you'll want to take a few minutes to examine this model. With an airspeed of 150 MPH, it might not be the most powerful tool, but it's still impressive and a definite consideration. The 400 CFM 26cc Gas Handheld Blower Vacuum is more than most homeowners need in the power department. The blower will get whatever household job you want done with minimal effort.
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4. Echo PB-580T Backpack Blower
The Best Backpack Blower for Hot Climates
The ECHO PB-580T is one of the best leaf blower models. It features a 2 stroke motor that has a specially designed tube-mount throttle. It renders an impressive 517 CFM and easily tops 200 MPH air speed, ensuring an impressive blowing performance.
This model is specifically designed to circulate air around the use, offering much-needed comfort in hot weather. It also weighs only a little over 22 pounds which makes it remarkably light. It's recommended that you use a ratio of 50:1 fuel to oil mixture - this is perfect for the 2 stroke motor. Ideally, you should use gas that has an octane rating of 89 or higher.
With a five-year consumer and two-year commercial warranty, you'll feel safe buying this model. As one of the best powered backpack leaf choices, this is a nice option that offers a variety of perks. The speed and CFM of air pressure give this model center stage as a leading backpack blower. The noise rating is an acceptable 70.
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5. Poulan Pro PR48BT Backpack Leaf Blower
Commercial Use with Serious Power
The impressive 48 cc two-cycle engine in the Poulan Pro 967087101 PR48BT exceeds 200 MPH, and the air speeds also scale 475 cubic feet per minute. The speed easily makes this one of the best backpack leaf blower choices on the market. It can handle blowing wet or stuck-down leaves, as well as other debris.
The straps are extra wide for added comfort. You can use this blower to clean up grass clippings or blow away leaves, making it an ideal year-round garden tool, even during inclement weather. It's powerful and can lift away and break apart moist leaves, pine needles, and clumped, moist grass that has stuck to the pavement.
The module has cruise control with variable speed. The backpack leaf model will reach speeds of up to 200 mph with an airflow of 475 CFM. It can conquer even the toughest jobs. This lightweight backpack leaf blower is loaded with a multitude of performance features like a soft-grip handle that's easy on the hands, a padded, load-reducing harness that will fit any body frame, plus variable speed control. The heavy-duty frame is built to last even extreme abuse.
This model is designed not only for homeowners but also small business owners who might be cleaning up a .5 acre lot or larger.
This is the best backpack leaf blower choice if you have a big yard or a small business. The leaf blower is all about impressive power, and it does not disappoint. The gas-powered model trumps standard handheld blowers for power. It's known for being robust and capable of tackling just about any job.
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6. Greenworks 80V Cordless Backpack
Electric Battery Powered - Best for Environment
This lithium-ion battery-powered backpack stands out from the crowd with its 580 CFM and 149 MPH blowing capability. It has a variable speed trigger that lets you be in control of all the model's power. There is even cruise control to make the entire blowing process easy and enjoyable.
This model comes with a single 2.5Ah battery and charger included. You can also purchase extra batteries if you have a large yard to increase the unit's run time. The battery-powered backpack features a padded and fully adjustable harness. At only a little under 15 pounds, it's easy to carry for an extended time.
This backpack leaf blower isn't the most powerful on our list, but it's battery-powered, meaning it doesn't produce any harmful emissions. Any novice can use this model - it's ideal for home use. It has enough power to get the job done with ease.
Check Price on Amazon ➞7. Husqvarna 570BTS powerful X-Torq
The Best for Debris and Wet Leaves
We have another Husqvarna on the list of the best backpack leaf blower choices. It's a commercial design that can conquer even the most demanding tasks. This Husqvarna model is powered by an impressive 65.6 cc X-Torx 2-cycle engine. You mix the gas at a 50:1 ratio. When the gas and oil are mixed correctly, you'll achieve a maximum fuel efficiency of up to 20 percent.
The thing that stands out about this leaf blower is the fact that it offers extraordinary power. At 236 miles per hour, it's nothing to dismiss. If you're seeking a workhorse backpack leaf blower, then this blower won't disappoint. It'll demand respect from any user who needs something with enough push to move debris, even if it's wet and weighed down.
Check Price on Amazon ➞8. Echo PB-770T Backpack Blower
All Round Quality Leaf Blower
The X Series ECHO PB-770T is another impressive machine. This gas powered leaf blower sweeps away leaves and debris with ease. It has a throttle with a cruise control function and variable speeds. You can pick the airspeed you need to accomplish your task.
The padded shoulder straps ensure that the weight of the backpack blower doesn't cause excessive shoulder pain. You have options to control the airspeed you need - a nice perk on this robust unit. It can reach wind speeds of 234 miles per hour. Give it a burst of powder using the trigger to really lift stuck-down debris.
One feature that stands out is the side-mounted dual-stage filter system, positioned to protect the engine from dirt, debris, and flying items. When you're hard at work blowing away items, the last thing you want to worry about is flying debris striking the motor. Most users appreciate the peace of mind that this perk provides.
The gas-powered blower also has interchangeable hoses to meet each job's unique requirements. The air volume reaches up to 756 CFM, which helps to tackle most landscape tasks.
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9. Makita EB5300TH Backpack Blower
The Best for Power and Comfort
The Makita EB5300TH Backpack Blower has a 4 cycle motor that makes this model stand out from the crowd. The unit's force is comparable to a commercial model - it exceeds any other handheld models, making it a great backpack leaf blower choice.
With a 52.5 cc motor, the engine holds 2.5 horsepower. The air velocity is a moderate 184 MPH with a CFM of 516. The engine takes straight, unleaded gas - there's no reason to mix it with oil. The fuel tank six is 60.7 oz. Adjustable tubbing lets you reach areas that might be hard to get to with handheld blowers or other devices. Ear protection is optional with the 70 dBA. This is lower than many models that run on fuel and have a good MPH and CFM.
When it comes to picking the best leaf blower, this blower exceeds the rest. It has an impressive, 4 cycle engine as its power source. The CFM and MPH are both more than adequate. It's first-class compared to other powered backpack leaf blowers.
One thing worth mentioning about this model is that it's only a little over 19 pounds. This makes the blower super easy to carry. The harness and anti-vibration features enable you to wear this blower all day without excessive discomfort. For a gas-powered blower, it's not very loud compared to other models, so noise protection is optional rather than essential.
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10. LawnMaster NPTBL31AB Backpack Blower
Best Budget Buy Backpack Leaf Blower
The LawnMaster NPTBL31AB Backpack Blower is the final choice on our list. This Backpack blower has taken its place in the top ten best backpack choices because it's affordable and works well. With a 175 mph and an interchangeable 7.2-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery, you can be environmentally conscious without sacrificing punch and power. When it comes to battery-powered choices, this one is truly one of the best backpack leaf blowers.
This model has a NO-PULL start - this lets you do 250 hassle-free starts with a single charge and run time. The unit's small 7.2-volt battery makes the blower a great choice for anyone who wants to avoid the noise of a gas-powered version.
Battery-powered leaf blowers might make some people hesitate, but rest assured that this one can complete any yard task with its 420 CFM engine. The variable speed control makes you feel like you're in charge, and the locking cruise feature lets you run the leaf blower for an extended time without needing a break.
This compact backpack leaf blower weighs only 18.5 pounds, making it perfect for people who can't carry much weight.
If you have a small to moderately-sized yard, then this is a leading blower pick. The speed and full crank engine make using this blower easy and straightforward. The airspeed enables this leaf blower to effortlessly move grass clippings and leaves from one end of the yard to the other. Bagging fall foliage has never been easier once you blow the leaves into a large pile.
Compared to a gas-powered model, this battery leaf blower does not disappoint or come up short. It has the power to complete any task, which makes it stand out as one of the best backpack leaf blowers.
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Buyer’s Guide to Backpack Leaf Blowers
As the seasons change, you’ll notice that the air is crisp, the leaves are softly changing shades. Autumn has arrived, and you have only a short window to purchase a dependable backpack leaf blower. You don’t want to let the leaves sit on your lawn – they could cause dead patches and spread disease.
Not to mention, when the snow starts to fall, the leaves become a soggy mess that smells and looks bad. Rotting leaves can discolor concrete, making your walkways and driveway look unpleasant. The soggy leaves can even pose a slipping hazard if not cleaned up.
- Check out the top snow blowers here
- See also the best patio heaters
Benefits of a Backpack Leaf Blower
Backpack leaf blowers are not a novel idea. In fact, they have been around since the 1950s – but their design has changed, and so has their ease-of-use. Many homeowners might see landscape tools and think they’re only made for professionals. They might have been standard gear for landscapers in the old days, but nowadays, they’re for everyone.
You can use a blower to organize leaves in piles for later bagging or mulching. Many people who have pine trees will blow the pine needles directly into the flowerbeds, creating an efficient mulch that curtails weed growth, provides insulation, and keeps the soil moist during times of drought.
The ease of this type of leaf blower means that you don’t have to use a handheld rake to keep your yard looking amazing—no more back-breaking labor! Just pull on the leaf blower and let the gas-powered or battery-driven machine do all the work.
Here are a few advantages to using a backpack leaf blower:
- Superior motor power that lets you clear a large area with ease
- Does not overheat (unlike handheld versions)
- Exceptional power, which is why most professional landscapers use a backpack leaf blower
- Removes the strain from your shoulders, arms, and hands
- Increases mobility to move objects in your yard
Gas Powered Engines
Gas-powered blowers have exceptional power, but electric models are not far off. If you decide to continue using fossil fuels, then you will need to pick the best engine type for your needs.
Engine Types
You can choose from two types:
- 2 cycle
- 4 cycle
The 2 cycle engine has a much greater power to weight ratio. In fact, some models give twice as much power in a space that is comparable to that of a 4 cycle engine. The allure of more power factors into many buyer’s decisions when picking between backpack leaf blowers.
However, a simpler machine is also appealing, and a 2 cycle engine has far fewer moving parts. They are lighter and easier to carry for long stretches of time. Also, these models provide greater fuel efficiency, so you can save money if you don’t mind the added weight.
Heat Impact When in Use
If you live in a hot climate, such as Arizona or Florida, be aware that a 2 cycle motor runs far hotter than a 4 cycle engine. You might start to overheat quicker when carrying these types of backpack leaf blowers for extended periods. In hot and humid regions of the country, you could become so overheated that you’re in danger of a heat stroke. However, the 4 stroke backpack blower is designed to run cooler and might be a better choice.
Quieter Operation
Most 4 cycle models are far quieter. This is definitely something to consider if you live in a residential area where your backpack leaf blower could disturb your neighbor’s peace and quiet.
Noise can also bother the operator. You can wear hearing protection to combat the sound, but a 4 stroke will reduce the decibels substantially.
Power Considerations in Backpack Blowers
The main reason people pick a backpack model is the added power over handheld designs. You’ll want to look at the blower’s CFM and MPH when considering the best powered blowers. You’ll need both of those numbers to be high.
Newbies considering powered blowers often think that they need the greatest MPH to push the air best. Of course, the MPH matters, but you must couple that with CFM to truly get the best results.
Understanding CFM
CFM refers to the volume of air that comes out of the blower’s tube in a single minute. It gives you an idea of how far powered blowers can push the leaves across the yard in the shortest amount of time. You want a good CFM for the powered leaf unit to work efficiently.
You need both excellent CFM and MPH so you can move the leaves quickly and achieve the best results.
Battery Powered Backpack Blowers
Petrol is king when it comes to yard equipment, but some people don’t need such a powerful tool or prefer the greener choice of battery power.
A battery-powered blower gets a bad rap sometimes, but technology has really developed in the last few years. There are a lot of options that give great power, are comfortable, and help the environment. They have many perks for the average homeowner, like less weight, extended run time, good CFM, and cleaner operation.
Easy Operation
Battery models offer easy operation, which reduces your work chores substantially and makes things much easier. Most people will buy more than 1 battery backup to compensate for the reduced run time. You can charge the spent battery and then swap them out when needed.
Battery backpack leaf blower models also benefit from recent innovations and investment in technology, so they’re more likely to have helpful controls and lightweight fabrics.
Pros of Battery-Powered Blowers
Here are just a few perks:
- You don’t have to handle messy fuel and oil
- The noise level is significantly reduced
- There is less vibration
- Reduced weight helps to avoid aches and pains
Backpack Leaf Blower Accessories
Once you’ve made your big purchase, it’s time to think about accessories that will make the work more enjoyable and easier.
- Extensions: Used for hard-reach areas, such as along crevices or near foundations.
- Vacuum Kits: Many blowers give you the option of hooking a vacuum device up to the tool. It will suck up leaves and may even put them through a mulching process before depositing them into a bag on your back.
- +Variable Blower Head Tips: This will help you pinpoint and target stuck-on debris on sidewalks and driveways. The head tips let you truly hone in on specks.
- Gutter Kits: Reach and clear your gutters using these handy kits.
- Disposable Leaf Bags: Bag up the leaves in large disposable leaf bags that help cut your work in half.
Blowing leaves into neat piles every autumn can leave your landscape looking pristine. Finding and owning the best backpack leaf blower makes the chore efficient, fast, and satisfying. Work doesn’t have to feel mundane when you have a handy blower to mobilize any leaf, pine needle, grass clippings, or debris that’s cluttering up your space. We hope that this article has helped you to find the best leaf blower for your needs.