There are many different styles of leaf blowers available on the market today, all of which have a variety of extra features and functions. One such variety of leaf blower is the backpack blower. These tools do not use electrical power from a cord and instead are powered by a gas engine or electric motor. It is the hunt for the best backpack leaf blower that we will take a closer look at in this article.
What follows is an overview of backpack blowers in general, with a closer look at a number of devices designed to get the job done!
Tools are designed to make a job easier, and a leaf blower makes cleaning the garden and the yard less painful. Nothing can be as disheartening as watching dead leaves pile up. This is especially true when there are a lot of trees turning at once. Dirt, grass, and other debris can pile up just as quickly too.
Why Would You Need a Backpack Leaf Blower?
One of the major advantages that a backpack leaf blower offers over other types of handheld blower models is its mobility. The motorized units do not draw power from an outlet so it does not require an extension cord to work. Instead, the gas engine or battery powered electrical motor is worn on the back. This allows it to go anywhere on a property instead of a limited distance from an electrical outlet that is usually located in the garage or on the front and back patios.
Another useful trait of a backpack style leaf blower is its ability to carry a larger power source. A larger engine or motor is able to handle a bigger workload. This larger power source is easier to carry in a backpack design. By distributing the weight across larger back muscles, the arms will not become as fatigued as they would if we had to carry the engine along with the blower wand while we worked.
Less fatigue can be critical when tackling larger properties. This power tool makes quick work of outdoor cleanup projects that used to take a full day with hand tools like brooms and rakes. Less fatigue allows a person to work for a longer period of time.
We can shave time from the job by not having to source an outlet and continuously plug in, run extension cords, and unplug multiple times. Our time is spent on work, not preparing our blower.
A backpack leaf blower is also easier to operate. With the engine strapped across the shoulders, our hands are free to operate the wand. This is usually done with one hand. That frees up the other hand that can then be used to move obstacles such as lawn furniture or to pick up trash.
Best Backpack Blower Features to Consider
When it comes to the best backpack blower reviews, it is important to be aware of what features are important and how manufacturers try to hide or highlight their product’s pros and cons.
Power Source
The first thing to keep in mind with a backpack leaf blower is the power source. Most of the backpack style leaf blowers use a gas engine for power. Gas engines generate higher power levels than electric motors, either battery operated models or outlet powered, are able to.
Ratings
The greater amount of power generated will increase the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) and MPH (Miles Per Hour) ratings.
Handheld leaf blowers can generate just under 400 CFM. This rating may be fine for smaller properties, but it will fall short when used in bigger yards. A backpack-style leaf blower is a step up from a hand-held unit and ranges between 400 to 700 CFM. Larger walk behind systems can generate much higher CFMs and at increased MPH rating.
Noise
Gas powered blowers are very noisy. Some residential areas have altered or created noise ordinances due to leaf blowers. But, technology continues to improve the noise levels these systems generate. The noise a backpack leaf blower produces is a lower frequency, a trait that allows the sound to carry clearly over a greater distance. The decibel levels listed for this equipment are usually measured at a distance of 50 feet, so any rating will fall short of the actual levels experienced by the user.
Weight
The backpack and tool weight are also considerations to think about. Thanks in part to the motor, a backpack leaf blower will weigh more than a hand-held unit will. Manufacturers will usually list their device’s weight as dry. This total does not include the weight of the tool when fuel is added. Depending upon the size of the fuel system and the tank storage, the increased weight could be notable. One thing is sure, the best backpack leaf blower has a high power-to-weight ratio and is comfortable enough to carry on the long term.
Other Features to Consider
Extra features to consider should include the quality of the shoulder straps. A well-designed shoulder strap can make all of the difference when carrying the unit. The blower’s wand design is also something to think about. A handle that is comfortable to hold onto will prevent your hand and fingers from becoming tired as quickly as a poorly designed handle will.
Safety Gear
You will also want to get some extra gear for yourself. Obviously, ear protection is important. With decibel levels exceeding 100 dBA, the long exposure to loud noise can cause issues. Another important piece of equipment is eye protection. There is a lot of dust and debris being blown around, which can cause at least some irritation.
Best Backpack Leaf Blower Reviews
Poulan Pro PR48BT 967087101 48cc Backpack Blower Review
475
Air Volume (cfm)
200
Air Speed (mph)
22
Weight (lbs)
Pros
- It offers cruise control to help maintain speed consistently
- The throttle control offers variable speed settings
- A two-year warranty covers parts and labor
- Heavy duty frame
Cons
- The blower may be difficult to start on cold mornings
- The instructions are a bit confusing and require extra attention
This backpack blower weighs 22 pounds and may be one of the best and most solid-looking products out there. The 48cc two-stroke engine generates enough power to blow air up to 200 mph at 475 cfm. That feature should be great for most property clean up and maintenance. The frame is highly durable, a good design element that will provide longevity for this tool.
A competitive price point is great for someone who isn’t looking to break the bank for convenience. The cruise control helps to provide less user fatigue. There is a throttle control that is capable of producing multiple speeds.
What Do Other Customers Say?
This Poulan Pro backpack blower is a popular choice and has good reviews. Reportedly it clears old piles of manure, hickory nuts, and compacted old leaves easily.
Most customers are happy with their purchase and the price. They highlight the great performance of the blower and its comfortable and well padded backpack.
There is room for improvement in the manual, which could be more clear on how to assemble the backpack blower.
Some buyers complained about customer service, but with the warranty in place, repairs should be straightforward.
Need more details? Read our full review of the Poulan Pro PR48BT Backpack Leaf Blower here!
Husqvarna 350BT 50.2cc Backpack Leaf Blower Review
494
Air Volume (cfm)
180
Air Speed (mph)
22.5
Weight (lbs)
Pros
- It is designed to use less fuel when operated
- It can provide 250 mph airspeed
Cons
- The plastic used to keep the weight down may not be as durable
- Some complaints were registered about the trigger working loose
Husqvarna is one of the oldest companies around when it comes to making hand and power tools.
The airspeed ranging up to 250 mph will come in handy even on the toughest dirt and grime. A cfm rating over 494 is great for users who need a larger air volume for a job.
This backpack leaf blower is CARB compliant, and owners will be happy to note that the two-year warranty upgrades to a four-year warranty by simply registering online.
The hip belt and wide shoulder straps are welcome add-ons for this blower.
What Do Other Customers Say?
With hundreds and hundreds of outstanding reviews online, this Husqvarna backpack blower has a proven track record. Customers appreciate the great design and reliability of this blower.
Reportedly, it can clear up 2 acres full of dump leaves of hardwood, several inches thick areas seem to be no problem at all.
Customers like the comfy backpack. The cruise control, extra vibration dampening, and adjustable handle are all there for their comfort, but according to some reviews, despite its great quality, it is still not for commercial use.
Need more details? Read our full review of the Husqvarna 350BT backpack leaf blower here.
BLACK+DECKER BEBL7000 Electric Backpack Leaf Blower Review with Vacuum and Mulcher
400
Air Volume (cfm)
250
Air Speed (mph)
11.1
Weight (lbs)
Pros
- This backpack blower comes at an economical price point
- The blower, mulcher and vacuum offer versatility
- Best backpack blower under $100
Cons
- The strength of the collection bag may need improving
- A lot of plastic components cheapen the quality of the tool
One thing that stands out instantly about this Black & Decker is how lightweight it is at only 11.1 pounds. This is due to the fact that it is powered electrically. For those looking to actually pick up leaves instead of blowing them around, the conversion into a vacuum is a plus. The 8 amp motor can produce air speeds of 250 mph at 400 cfm.
This lightweight backpack leaf blower is a three-in-one power tool that can also convert into a mulcher, a feature many gardeners will appreciate. The power boost button is a great feature for someone who will need a quick increase of power for difficult areas.
What Do Other Customers Say?
Existing customers certainly appreciate and like the 3-in-1 feature of blower, vacuum, and mulch settings.
It is suggested to avoid other debris like sticks when using the mulch option though.
Current users also fancy the huge capacity of the vacuum bag that can be carried as a backpack.
The greatest thing about this tool is this is a backpack blower under $100 and this along with a good performance can easily make it the best backpack blower on the market for moderate use.
Makita BBX7600N 4-Stroke Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
This backpack leaf blower brand is a monster one, that offers a gas backpack leaf blower with an incredible 526 CFM air volume.
The Makita BBX7600N achieves this with a modern, 75.6 cc commercial-duty 4-stroke engine that requires no fuel mix.
Read more in detail in our Makita BBX7600N review!
Conclusion – The Best Backpack Leaf Blower
There is no doubt that a backpack leaf blower made yard work easier to do. If it is falling leaves or freshly cut grass, the blower is able to help scatter it. Some models can collect it or even mulch it. The best backpack leaf blowers offer the power of the blower with added mobility. Garden and yard maintenance on larger properties is now something that can be managed.
Understanding the different ratings on these power tools allows a homeowner to select the unit that will best suit the requirements of the property. Those requirements will include yard size and the type of work to be done. Locating the extra features that are desired is what will make the difference between more window shopping and the purchase of the best backpack leaf blower for your needs.
Interested in lighter, more mobile blowers? Check out our Cordless Leaf Blower Reviews!
Further research is encouraged with all purchases. Planning ahead will get the right leaf blower for now, and hopefully for years to come!
Have you thought of how much fun it can be if the kids are out in the garden with you while using their own leaf blowers? Read about the Best Kids Leaf Blowers on the market these days!
