Best Backpack Blowers of 2022

Handheld vs. backpack blowers. What is the difference?

The two most common types of leaf blowers used by homeowners and landscapers are the handheld and backpack models.

• Handheld leaf blowers: Are similar to the weed eaters from a design standpoint. You must hold the powerhead with one hand while using the other hand to maneuver the tube. These blowers have smaller capacity engines or batteries and are ideal for smaller yards or areas with few trees.
• Backpack leaf blowers: Have more in common with the backpack sprayers or backpack weed eaters. Because of their design, backpack leaf blowers can accommodate larger engines or batteries and are more suitable for heavy-duty cleaning. They are perfect for big yards with lots of trees as well as commercial applications.

Types of backpack leaf blowers

Depending on your needs, you can choose from either gas or battery-powered backpack leaf blowers.

• The best backpack blowers for landscapers are by far the gas-powered Their engines can output high power and torque, translating into high air volume and air velocity. Thanks to these features, they are perfect for blowing off large piles of leaves as well as heavier yard debris, such as small rocks, twigs, and small branches.
• Like the handheld cordless leaf blowers, battery-powered backpack blowers are perfect for homeowners with big yards and lots of trees. They don’t deliver quite the same power as the gas-powered ones but are cleaner and quieter to run.

Backpack leaf blower or leaf blower vacuum?

What would you want a leaf blower to do? Would you like to only blow the leaves into piles and then dispose of them manually, or would you like a blower than can also get rid of the pile once you’ve built it?

The answers to these questions will determine whether you need a simple backpack leaf blower or a leaf blower vacuum.

If you decide to go for the latter, know that some manufacturers propose leaf vacuum mulchers that can blow leaves and yard debris in piles, vacuum them into disposal bags, or even transform leaves into mulch.

Tube mounted vs. arm throttle controls. Which is best?

An important thing to check before buying your backpack blower is the location of the throttle control. This trigger allows you to adjust the speed and air volume to match the application or to regulate the fuel/battery consumption. Depending on the model, you can choose from tube-mounted and arm controls.

• Tube-mounted controls: Are placed on a handle that you will have to hold anyway to maneuver the blower’s tube. They are typically more ergonomic, easier to reach and control, and are undoubtedly the best option if you have to clean large plots of land day after day.
• Arm controls: Are attached to a separate arm that extends from the frame of the backpack. You will have to use both hands – one to hold the tube and the other to control the throttle. While this layout is less comfortable, these backpack blowers are usually cheaper.

What is more important, CFM or MPH in leaf blowers?

In a nutshell, both are important. The air volume, expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM), determines the effectiveness of the blower. Higher CFM means the tool can output a higher force, cleaning larger amounts of leaves and heavier yard debris.

The air velocity, measured in miles per hour (MPH), determines how quickly you can blow away the debris. Obviously, the faster the breeze, the heavier yard debris you’ll be able to handle, including twigs and small branches.

If, due to budget considerations, you have to make a compromise, you should go for a blower with higher CFM.

Do backpack leaf blowers work on wet leaves?

Yes. But this doesn’t mean that it will be easy to clean them. Leaf blowers, including backpack blowers, are designed to remove dry leaves and debris from various surfaces, such as driveways, decks, patios, and even lawns.

If you’re planning to clean your yard right after a storm or rain, know that you will need a very powerful backpack blower.

The best commercial backpack leaf blowers are usually up to the job, as they can output sufficient air volume and air velocity to lift up wet leaves and blow them into a pile. Alternatively, it is recommended to wait until the leaves start to dry before cleaning your property.

How to use a backpack leaf blower efficiently?

Using a backpack blower isn’t rocket science, but if you want to make the most out of it, check out our leaf blowing tips below:

1. Check the weather before starting the job, and avoid cleaning your yard on a windy day, as your efforts won’t be repaid.
2. If possible, let the wet leaves dry before cleaning them. As we already explained, blowing dry leaves and debris is easier and faster.
3. Come up with a cleaning plan and decide where you want to pile the leaves. Then, start blowing from the opposite end of the yard.
4. Always blow the air in the same direction; otherwise, you’ll probably double your work.
5. Use a narrower nozzle to blow off leaves effectively from corners and edges.
6. Hold the blower tube on your side and use a smooth, back and forth motion to lift and blow all leaves in front of you, as you walk slowly. In this way, you’ll be able to pile them up quickly and effortlessly.

Features to look for when buying a backpack leaf blower

Besides everything above, there are a few other important features to look for if you want to get your hands on the best backpack blower around:

• Nozzles: Some manufacturers equip their models with only one nozzle, but the best backpack leaf blowers come with multiple nozzles you can use to pile up various types of yard debris from various surfaces.
• Noise level: As a rule of thumb, gas-powered backpack blowers are typically noisier than the battery-operated ones. If you need a tool to work in residential areas, it is recommended to go for the quietest possible unit.
• Weight: Backpack blowers are usually heavier than the handheld models; however, you should still pay attention to the actual weight. Because you will have to wear the engine or battery pack on your shoulders, it is important to compare the various models and go for the lightest that fits your requirements.
• Comfort: Ergonomics is as important as a low weight. A few things your backpack blower should have include padded shoulder straps and back panel, curved back panel for enhanced breathability, adjustable hip belt, rubberized grips, as well as an adjustable handle and anti-vibration mounts.
• CARB-compliant engine: Last but not least, if you want a gas-powered backpack blower to use in all states, make sure it comes with a CARB-compliant engine. Otherwise, it could be wiser to pick a cordless model if you want to make sure your tool complies with the local laws and regulations in all states.

Best Backpack Blower for the Money

Best value

Husqvarna 965877502 350BT 2-Cycle Gas Backpack Blower

Best residential backpack blower

Specially designed to emit low noise, this backpack leaf blower is perfect to use in residential areas.

Check price on Amazon