10 Best Backpack Leaf Blowers Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Backpack Leaf Blower – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

Fall is one of the most spectacular seasons but not when all the leaves are blocking your alley or covering your front door, so make sure to find the best backpack leaf blower to keep your yard clean. If you’re in the market for such a product, the new Husqvarna 350BT 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower is a great choice. The unique engine design increases fuel efficiency by up to 20% while reducing harmful exhaust emissions by half. It uses full blow force with minimal arm strain so it won’t cause mobility problems even after long hours. The dampeners found between the chassis and the engine will reduce vibrations so you can enjoy a more comfortable device in the long term. Moreover, the padded harness and hip belt provide an ergonomic design, perfectly molding on the contour of the operator. If this backpack leaf blower is not available for sale, a decent alternative would be the Poulan Pro PR48BT 475 CFM Backpack Leaf Blower.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Backpack Leaf Blowers (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

Keeping your patio and backyard clean is easy when you’re benefiting from the help of a gas powered backpack leaf blower. Showcased below you can find some of the most sought-after models available on the market right now, together with their in-depth reviews so you can find the perfect item for you.

 

 

1. Husqvarna 350BT 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower

 

Finding the best commercial backpack leaf blower starts with the Husqvarna products and the new 965877502 model is the right choice for those who want fuel efficiency. The X-torque engine design reduces exhaust emissions by up to 60% while making the device 20% more efficient.

The idling speed is 2200 RPM, allowing you to easily finish most cleaning tasks around the house and in your backyard. The product uses full blow force while delivering minimal arm strain, meaning it is more comfortable to wear for demanding jobs.

It is equipped with technologies that reduce vibrations, delivering less hand and arm fatigue. What we also liked is the ergonomic harness system that consists of a padded harness and a hip belt that are both shaped to closely follow the shape of the human body for even weight distribution and more comfort. The waist belt is also adjustable to meet the requirements of all people, regardless of their body shape.

 

Pros

Fueled by gas, this leaf blower from Husqvarna boasts great power to complete difficult and demanding cleaning jobs as fast as possible.

It features different speeds that you can easily adjust according to your needs, while the cruise control setting will ensure easier handling for jobs on larger backyards or small parks.

The dampeners located between the chassis and the engine effectively reduce vibrations for less fatigue, eliminating the mild case of motion sickness some users might experience.

The unique engine design ensures increased fuel efficiency without decreasing speed or power.

 

Cons

The product weighs over 20 pounds and, even though it comes with padded shoulder straps and waist buckles, it remains heavy to be operated with a full tank by most people, especially for a longer time.

As with most gas leaf blowers, this one is loud so we don’t recommend using it without wearing protective ear equipment.

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2. Poulan Pro PR48BT 475 CFM Backpack Leaf Blower

 

Featuring a 2-stroke engine, this leaf blower is capable of delivering increased speed and power, allowing you to finish all your cleaning chores faster and easier. The wind blows with a total speed of up to 200 mph, sending all dust, debris, and leaves far away from your backyard, front porch or terrace.

Despite its powerful motor and the fact that it operates on gas, the item is lightweight and convenient to carry even when you’re dealing with time-consuming tasks. It is equipped with numerous accessories, designed for increasing comfort and reducing pain and fatigue.

The harness ensures optimal fit and will evenly distribute the weight of the blower, so you will get minimal strain and reduced fatigue, regardless of your height, strength or body type. The adjustable shoulder straps also cater to the needs of various people, while the variable speed throttle control helps you pick the right speed for the task you’re performing.

 

Pros

The item is lighter than other leaf blowers in the same category, meaning it is more convenient to wear, even when you’re dealing with chores that take a long time to finish.

The 2-stroke engine delivers a higher power-to-weight ratio so you can finish all your cleaning chores faster and easier.

It features adjustable padded shoulder straps to evenly distribute the weight, contributing to a better back posture and reduced back pain even when operating it for a long time.

The ergonomic design reduces hand and arm fatigue for users of any size.

 

Cons

Despite being an affordable backpack leaf blower, this unit doesn’t seem to run at full throttle, so it would be best to only use it for short-term, minor cleaning tasks. It also seems to lower its power in time, especially if you operate it regularly.

Although not a product flaw, the customer service of Poulan requires improvement.

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3. Husqvarna 967144301 360BT Backpack Blower

 

If you’re looking for a powerful unit that will help you easily blow off dust, debris, sand, and leaves out of your property, give this Husqvarna model a try. The X-torq engine design reduces exhaust emissions by up to 60%, contributing to the improvement of air quality, while also increasing fuel efficiency by up to 20%.

In other words, this unit pollutes less and helps you finish more tasks using the same amount of fuel. The powerful engine combined with the efficient fan design delivers high airflow and speed, while the air purge feature allows you to remove air from the carb and fuel system to ensure easy starting.

This commercial-style backpack blower is created for demanding tasks, providing excellent performance and comfortable carrying. It comes with adjustable padded shoulder straps that distribute the weight evenly, ensuring a better back posture while also reducing hand and shoulder fatigue.

 

Pros

The unique engine is designed for superior fuel efficiency and lower exhaust emissions, making the unit a greener alternative in the long term.

The same engine combined with the efficient fan design delivers high blowing capacity to help you perform even the most complicated tasks faster and easier.

The backpack comes with padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted for a more comfortable fit. The length of the tube is also adjustable to deliver the best performance depending on the task.

The product is easy to assemble and, by closely following the instructions provided by the manufacturer, you will be able to power it in a few minutes.

 

Cons

Although we like a powerful engine able to perform even the most complicated cleaning tasks without wasting time, this blower makes a lot of noise, so we strongly suggest using proper ear protection to prevent hearing loss and other health problems.

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4. Greenworks BPB80L00 Cordless Backpack Leaf Blower

 

If you have a small backyard or you’re new at using these kinds of tools, a battery-powered leaf blower like this one from Greenworks represents a good solution. The brushless motor delivers a performance similar to gas-operated devices without polluting the atmosphere or costing extra to fill your tank.

The product can blow dust, debris, sand or leaves with a total speed of up to 145 mph, making it efficient for both dry and wet leaves around your backyard or terrace. And, if you’re looking for extra power for tough cleaning jobs, you can count on the variable speed trigger or the turbo button to go the extra mile.

Another feature that we liked about this blower is the cruise control setting that allows you to preset the speed and power used to finish a job without having to worry about changing the speed halfway. Please be informed that the item is powered by an 80V battery that isn’t delivered.

 

Pros

Boasting a similar power to gas-operated blowers, this product represents a greener and more affordable alternative for cleaning your front yard, garden or terrace.

With a total speed of up to 145 mph, the device blows through debris, sand, and wet or dry leaves easily, helping you keep the terrain around your house clean, regardless of the season.

You can switch through various speeds with the help of a trigger and even opt for the turbo button if you need more speed for tougher jobs.

The backpack features adjustable padded straps that allow the even distribution of the blower’s weight so that you won’t suffer from neck or back pains.

 

Cons

The product is powered by an 80V battery compatible with various similar leaf blower models from the same company but you’ll have to purchase it individually. This item isn’t delivered with the battery charger either, which means that the total costs of the device will increase significantly.

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5. Schröder Germany Industrial Backpack SR-6400L

 

Boasting a powerful 3.7HP motor, the blower can reach a speed of up to 230 mph, making it stronger than many other similar products on the market. Therefore, it represents a great choice for those who want high-quality results as fast as possible.

It is compact and at 19.5 pounds with all the accessories included, it represents a lighter option than other blowers. The expandable wand allows you to reach even the narrowest corners of your garden, removing both wet and dry leaves, as well as dust, dirt, sand, and other debris.

The backpack style ensures an even distribution of the weight on both your shoulders, reducing fatigue and back pains, even if you plan on using the blower for a long time. The padded adjustable straps provide increased comfort and absorb extra moisture, allowing you to stay dry even during the warm summer days.

 

Pros

Compact and affordable, this blower delivers industrial results while remaining easy to use, even by those who don’t have too much experience with such tools.

It is lighter than other models by 3-4 pounds, ensuring increased portability and handling. Moreover, it won’t put pressure on your shoulders, back or arms, meaning you shouldn’t experience fatigue or pain when using the item.

It boasts a powerful motor that allows you to blow leaves at a speed up to 230 mph, more than you would normally get on products within the same price range and weight category. Therefore, it is a great product for hard jobs.

You can easily switch between speeds and even activate a power boost should your current job require more power to be finished on time.

 

Cons

The harness that comes with the device works but won’t fasten across the chest. There isn’t a strap for your waist to support your back either.

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6. EGO Bare Tool CFM56 Cordless Electric Backpack Blower

 

Electric tools remain a great option for those who are looking for a product that is easy to use. The EGO Bare boasts a powerful motor and a 56V Li-ion battery that provides increased autonomy so you can finish all your cleaning tasks as soon as possible.

At full speed, it can blow leaves at a total speed of up 145 mph, meaning it represents a good tool for those who want to clean their front porches, backyards, and terraces fast and conveniently.

The product runs on a powerful battery that won’t pollute the air like a gas-fueled leaf blower. At low speed, the battery autonomy is of about 2 hours, while at full speed it can provide up to 20-21 minutes of uninterrupted power for quick cleaning jobs.

Unlike a handheld unit that is heavy and will make you switch hands every few minutes to prevent pain and fatigue, the backpack option provides freedom of movement for your hands. And, since the weight is distributed evenly on both shoulders, you won’t have to worry about back pain.

 

Pros

The product runs on a powerful battery, providing maximum freedom of movement and isn’t harmful to the environment and the air quality like many gas-operated leaf blowers.

It reaches a total speed of up to 145 mph, enough to help you perform most cleaning jobs around your backyard without being too loud.

The backpack design makes the item more reliable and easier to carry. It comes with padded shoulder straps that absorb some of the weight and distribute it evenly so you won’t get to experience fatigue or neck, shoulder and back pains.

The tube length, harness, and waist belt are all adjustable, ensuring a proper fit according to your needs.

 

Cons

Both the battery and the charger for this unit are sold separately, which will significantly add to the costs of using this blower. Moreover, as with all other battery-operated devices, the autonomy will decrease in time, meaning you won’t be able to enjoy the blower for more than 20 minutes at full speed.

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7. Ryobi 38cc 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Leaf Blower

 

Boasting a 2-cycle engine, this leaf blower from Ryobi delivers more power, making it a trustworthy ally for more complicated cleaning tasks in your backyard. It can remove all dust, debris, sand, and dry or wet leaves with a total blowing speed of up to 175 mph, meaning you will spend less time cleaning.

The unique engine position increases efficiency and helps you reduce fuel consumption so you’ll spend less in the long term. The product features a variable speed trigger to help you easily switch from different speeds, depending on the job you need to do while the cruise control option ensures easier handling.

The contoured back and the adjustable padded straps of the backpack make the blower more comfortable to wear even when handling time-consuming tasks. Therefore, they will help you maintain a straight body posture and won’t allow the blower to put too much pressure on your shoulders or arms.

 

Pros

The 2-cycle engine delivers more power so you can handle even the most complicated tasks easily and fast.

It can reach a total blowing speed of up to 175 mph, enough to help you perfectly clean your backyard, patio, terrace or balcony.

It features a variable speed trigger and cruise control, options that ensure increased versatility no matter what your cleaning requirements are.

Thanks to the backpack style that comes with adjustable padded straps, as well as the contoured back, you won’t experience pain or fatigue, even if you operate the blower for a long time.

 

Cons

As with many gas-operated blowers with 2-cycle engines, they might be boasting more power but they are also louder than other products, so you should wear ear protection to prevent any damage in the long term.

It weighs 24 pounds so even when wearing it on your back it may still feel heavy, especially if you’re a petite person.

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8. LawnMaster NPTBL31AB No-Pull Backpack Blower

 

One of the greatest features of gas-operated machines is that there is no cord, meaning you’ll enjoy maximum flexibility and freedom of movement wherever you are. The new LawnMaster is equipped with a powerful 2-cycle engine that helps you perform even the most difficult cleaning tasks without too much effort.

The 2-cycle engine uses the fuel more efficiently and delivers more blowing power to remove all wet and dry leaves, sand, gravel, dirt, and other debris in just a few seconds.

The electric push start button makes things easier and makes the item suitable even for those who have just started using leaf blowers. The product can reach a total speed of 175 mph and allows you to choose from different speeds, depending on your needs. There is also a cruise control function as well as a boost power should you need more to finish your tasks in time.

 

Pros

The blower features an automatic choke and an electric push start button for user convenience, meaning it is a great product for all people, regardless of their level of expertise.

Another feature that we liked in this particular tool is the anti-vibration engine mount that makes the overall process more comfortable.

Depending on your cleaning tasks, you can opt for the boost power button or to extend the battery life should you need more time to finish removing all leaves and debris from your backyard.

The backpack design features adjustable padded shoulder straps, as well as a ventilated harness that helps reduce fatigue and provide increased comfort during extended use.

 

Cons

The battery and the charger are included with this device but you’ll still need a mixture of oil and gas to fuel it. If you don’t seem to get the perfect ratio right, we suggest going for premixes available at your local gardening stores.

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9. RedMax Genuine Gas Blower EBZ8550RH

 

This leaf blower was designed for commercial operators, delivering increased performance for all cleaning tasks around the house. Depending on the accessory used, the product can reach a total blowing power of up to 209 mph, enough to remove even stubborn debris, dust, dirt, and wet leaves from your front porch, backyard or garden fast and easy.

It weighs approximately 25 pounds that are well-distributed thanks to the backpack design. It comes with adjustable padded shoulder straps that ensure a good back posture, releasing some of the pressure and preventing fatigue or pain when operating the device for a long time.

Combined with the adjustable hose size, this blower is comfortable to use by all customers, even by those who have limited experience with gardening and maintenance tools. The product is operated by gas and features speed control to help you easily switch from one speed to another, depending on the cleaning task you’re performing.

 

Pros

The powerful motor can reach a total blowing speed of 206-209 mph, more than enough for quickly and easily performing all cleaning tasks around your house that imply removing wet or dry leaves, debris, sand or dirt.

The backpack design ensures an even weight distribution so you won’t feel the 25 pounds putting too much pressure on your back or shoulders.

It features adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist belt for increased convenience and comfort, reducing fatigue and pain when operating the blower for a long time.

The adjustable hose size delivers versatility and comfort for all users, regardless of their height or body type.

 

Cons

As with all other gas-operated leaf blowers, although we appreciate the powerful motor, it uses a lot of fuel to reach its maximum power, meaning low fuel performance. In other words, used regularly, you’ll spend more money to keep the tank full.

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10. Kobalts 580-CFM Brushless Cordless Electric Backpack Blower

 

Going through this backpack leaf blower review, you will find that the product is designed for minor cleaning and maintenance jobs in your backyard, on your terrace, front steps or balcony. It can remove most dirt, debris, dust, and dry leaves, leaving your yard clean throughout the year.

It reaches a total blowing speed of 145 mph, enough to finish regular cleaning tasks without too much effort, and in a short time. Although you might think the motor power is reduced, the advantage is that the product will be less noisy, so you can even use it while wearing a regular pair of headphones on to protect your ears.

Another advantage of the new Kobalts Brushless blower is the easy push-button start which makes using the device a breeze. The backpack design ensures an even weight distribution on your shoulders and back, reducing fatigue and pains, even if you operate the blower for a long time.

 

Pros

The gadget boasts a motor that can reach a total blowing speed of 145 mph, enough to help you easily finish minor cleaning and maintenance tasks around your house, removing wet and dry leaves from your porch, alley, backyard, garden, balcony or terrace.

The variable speed trigger and cruise control help you easily maintain the speed you want or opt for more power should your cleaning tasks require that.

It is powered by a battery, delivering maximum flexibility and freedom of movement as you no longer have to worry about a cord that isn’t long enough.

Thanks to the backpack design, the blower is easier and more convenient to carry, without putting too much pressure on your back or causing pain and fatigue.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that the product isn’t sold with a battery or a charger, so you’ll have to purchase these accessories separately to be able to operate the leaf blower.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Picking a cheap backpack leaf blower won’t always do the trick, especially if you need a quality job that involves precision. So, before spending your money on less-efficient models, here are some of the features you should consider if you want to bring home the best gas backpack leaf blower.

Fuel Type

If you don’t have some experience in the field, going through backpack leaf blower reviews online will only confuse you as there are various types of products, each designed for a specific set of tasks.

Battery-fueled items are great for first-time owners as they are user-friendly and lightweight. They are mainly created for easy leaf blowing tasks and can even run on the existing batteries of other tools, which makes them affordable and convenient to use in the long term. On the other hand, they have limited run time and won’t be able to perform well on large surfaces.

Corded devices are the least-heavy pieces of equipment in the category so they are suitable for older people and those with less strength in their hands and arms. You’ll get more power than with a battery-operated leaf blower which helps you perform most tasks faster and easier. However, you can easily get tangled in the cord and won’t be able to go too far from a power outlet.

Gas-operated backpack leaf blowers boast the most power out of all devices but are also heavier and louder. Finding the right ratio of gas and oil could also prove a difficult task but there are some premixes available that will make your life easier.

 

2-Cycle vs. 4-Cycle Engines

Generally speaking, 2-cycle engines have a higher power-to-weight ratio, making them a more attractive choice for people who are looking to finish their tasks in a timely fashion. These engines also have fewer moving parts, which makes them lighter and more convenient to wear for jobs that will take a couple of hours to finish.

On the other hand, 4-cycle engines are designed for fuel efficiency, meaning that you will consume less fuel to perform a task. Given that the gas prices always change, 4-cycle engines could prove a smart investment in the long term. They are also quieter than blowers built with 2-cycle engines so they won’t harm your hearing even if you forget to use ear protection.

Ergonomic Design and Comfort

Given that most leaf blowers weigh around 20 pounds or more, you need to make sure their weight is evenly distributed so you won’t experience hand or arm fatigue in the long run.

Look for products with an ergonomic design that supports the natural movements of the human body and will avoid repetitive stress injuries.

The best backpack leaf blowers come with padded straps and back panels, as well as with adjustable hip belts for increased comfort and support. The padding absorbs shocks and prevents back pains after long hours of use.

Adjustable handles cater to the needs of all users, depending on their height or the length of their arms so they can enjoy a comfortable grip. Most handles also come with rubberized or padded grips to prevent slipping and absorb extra moisture.

Lastly, you might want to consider products that come with anti-vibration mounts to minimize discomfort and motion fatigue when operating the blowers for a long time.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: What is the most powerful backpack leaf blower?

As we previously mentioned, each type of leaf blower comes with its perks and downsides, so it is up to you to find the model that will help you finish your cleaning tasks fast and easy. Out of all the models existing, gas-operated backpack leaf blowers boast the most power, whether we’re talking about 2-cycle engines or 4-cycle engines.

However, with great power also comes increased fuel consumption and noise, so you need to take these aspects into account before deciding if this is the best option for you. If you have a small patio or backyard that needs to be cleaned, a handheld blower or a backpack one operated by cords would be more suitable choices as they are lighter and easier to handle.

Gas leaf blowers might also be harder to start as you’ll always have to consider the best oil and gas ratio to keep the engine lubricated while also having enough gas to perform all your cleaning tasks.

Q: How do I operate a backpack leaf blower?

The answer to this question depends on the type of product you are opting for. To use a gas-fueled leaf blower, you’ll first have to pour a mix of oil and gas into the tank. If you don’t know the exact ratio your model requires, you could go for a premium premix that will also look after your motor and prevent clogging in the long term.

After you fill the tank, you have to set the required speed and start blowing. The strategy is similar if you own a corded leaf blower with the exception that you first have to plug in the device.

Most of these products come with various functions to enhance the overall experience, reduce hand fatigue, and help you finish your tasks in time. The cruise control feature allows you to maintain the same speed and blowing power for a larger area that needs to be cleaned.

 

Q: Should I go for a battery or gas backpack leaf blower?

This depends on the power you require to finish a job, as well as the task that needs to be performed. Easy tasks of blowing leaves and dust from your porch or terrace don’t require too much power so they can be performed by battery-operated devices.

The main advantage of battery-operated blowers is that they are user-friendly, making them great for first-timers and less-experienced people. They can also run on existing batteries of other devices which means they are less expensive to operate and low-maintenance in the long term. A blower that runs on batteries will be ready to use with a single trigger squeeze but will provide limited time autonomy.

As we have previously mentioned, leaf blowers that run on gas are trickier to handle and look after. They can get clogged or experience engine failures if you don’t use the right oil and gas ratio. They are more powerful and louder too so you should always wear ear protection when using them.