2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

I think you’ll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers — and they’re generally cheaper. If you’re convinced you need gas-power, then the Husqvarna 150BT is one of the best value gas backpack blower you’ll find, and it provides enough air volume (452 CFM / 22N) for homeowners — BUT, don’t be quick to choose a leaf blower until you’ve read at least half of this buying guide, especially the section on ‘the dangers of noise pollution.‘ Either way, we review the 150BT later in the article — but let’s begin by comparing gas-powered and battery-powered backpack blowers.

This article was written to help you make an intelligent buying decision. This article might save your health, if you pay attention.

Here are two popular brands and blowers by ECHO & EGO. You can see them side by side. Both are fantastic in their own class, but if you’re a homeowner, the EGO 56V has my vote for the best battery-powered backpack leaf blowers to buy, and the facts support that statement.

FACT : The perceived loudness of gas-powered tools can be as high as 2x to 4x than battery-powered tools, such as a backpack leaf blower. That means that even if two leaf blowers have the exact same decibel rating, the gas leaf blower can sound up to 4x louder because of the frequency of sound emitted from the gasoline engine. More on this later in the article.

Gas-Powered vs Battery-Powered / Backpack Leaf Blower

Advantages and disadvantages of Gas-Powered Backpack Leaf Blowers —

Now, let’s take a look at what’s good and bad about battery-powered backpack blowers. Hint — the fact that batteries have a limited run-time and need to be recharged is the only downside to battery power. This weakness can be overcome with buying a second set of batteries, or in some cases like the EGO brand, buy the 12Ah battery for longer running time. Problem is that batteries are expensive, so taking my advice would add a considerable amount to the overall purchase price, but the problem would be solved. More on this later.

Advantages and disadvantages of a BATTERY-POWERED Backpack Leaf Blower —

Always Wear Safety Hearing & Eye Protection —

Top 5 Backpack Gas Leaf Blowers

Best Cheap Backpack Leaf Blower —

Runner Up:

Best Cheap Backpack Leaf Blower —

Best Heavy-Duty Backpack Leaf Blowers —

Calling either of these models “leaf blowers” is quite misleading as these ultra-powerful blowers have enough blowing force (Newtons) to move and clear just about any type of loose debris, including: Leaves, grass, dirt, water, snow, mulch, small rocks/pebbles, small pieces of wood, etc. These are so much more than leaf blowers — for example, these are excellent snow blowers for deep loose powder after a fresh snowfall. Or, use them to clean up debris and/or move water puddles, after a storm. The power in the ECHO PB-9010 and RedMax EBZ8550 are phenomenal. Let’s compare, and there’s a video comparison after the specs:

VIDEO / See how the RedMax 8550 compares to the ECHO PB8010

Best Overall Value Backpack Leaf Blower —

The Makita EB5300TH is a unique model and deserves your consideration as it’s a 4-stroke backpack blower, making it much quieter at only 70dB. The engine runs smooth, you don’t have to mix fuel like every other 2-stroke gas blower, and it’s impressively lightweight. This is the complete package, and sits in the perfect middle where everything is “just right.” A must buy in 2023!

Best Husqvarna Backpack Leaf Blower for Homeowners —

Husqvarna has been in business for over 330 years. Did you know that? They were founded in 1689. It’s unbelievable when you think about the rich history of the Husqvarna brand. It’s no secret that they consistently create exceptional power equipment for homeowners and for commercial applications. The 360BT is an excellent medium-duty backpack leaf blower, built to high standards while also being affordable for homeowners. It’s the total package.

Top 3 Cordless Backpack Leaf Blowers

I said this earlier in the article, but I’ll say it again; if you’re a homeowner I recommend buying a battery-powered leaf blower. If for no other reason, the reduced noise levels and the reduced vibration will ensure you feel good even after clearing leaves and debris from your yard. Over the long-term, battery-power is far less shocking to the human body, your neighborhood and the environment. Let’s look at three reputable brands selling high quality battery backpack blowers, specifically for homeowners and/or residential areas:

The Truth about Noise Pollution & Gas-Powered Equipment

Not all sound is created equal. Did you you know that even though two leaf blowers might be rated at the same decibel level, the real-world audible test will clearly sound different to a human? It is a scientific fact that gas-powered backpack leaf blowers create more noise pollution and over longer distances than battery-powered backpack leaf blowers. It’s true. This is not only true for leaf blowers, but in fact, all gas powered equipment is audibly louder than corded-electric and/or battery-powered power equipment.

The term is “perceived loudness.” In other words, forget about the decibel ratings when comparing gas and electric power equipment. The perceived loudness, meaning, the way you will experience the sound, will always be louder when hearing a gasoline leaf blower, chainsaw, lawn mower, etc., in comparison to hearing a cordless version of the same piece of power equipment. The reason is because of the distribution of sound frequency is radically different in gas engines compared to electric motors.

Gas engines produce much more low frequency sounds in the 100 Hz to 150 Hz range. This is a lower frequency sound that travels further in the environment, and enables the sound to travel easily via your windows and doors. Low frequency sounds cause your windows, doors and tables to vibrate. This is the effect of low frequency sound traveling through your home. Those rattles you hear and feel in your home when you’re trying to sleep in on a Saturday morning are typically caused by gasoline engines in the neighborhood. This annoying low frequency sound can be heard up to around 800 feet away from a simple leaf blower.

The perceived loudness of gas-powered backpack leaf blower can be as much as TWO to FOUR Times louder than Battery-Powered (or Corded-Electric) in terms of real world experience of the sound. It’s absolutely crazy, and an uncommon fact that everyone should be educated about. Reading technical specs can be very misleading, especially when it comes to decibel ratings.

In 2018 a published study called: “Lawn and Garden Equipment Sound: A Comparison of Gas and Battery Electric Equipment” did a comprehensive investigation on noise pollution from power equipment and concluded that noise pollution from gasoline engines is far more dangerous to our health than previously thought. For example, the study says:

Low frequency noise is a special health concern because it may “increase adverse effects considerably” [12,18]. Studies in animals show that exposure to low frequency noise causes fibrosis and thickening of cardiovascular vessels [19,20]. Populations most vulnerable to these effects include not only the equipment operators, but also children, seniors, people with hearing disorders and neurological conditions like autism and sensory deficit disorders [21].

Journal of Environmental and Toxicological Studies

Have you ever been to a music concert and you felt annoyed by the strong vibration traveling through your body? Or have you ever been close to car and felt the strong vibration coming from the vehicle but you could barely hear the music? Well, those vibrations associated with sub-woofers and music is in the same category of sound emitted by gas-powered leaf blowers and other gasoline pieces of power equipment. This low frequency of sound is harmful to your health in a multitude of ways, and these low frequency sounds are what creates a much l

Most people are not aware of the long-term health effects caused by these low frequency sounds. The truth is, you should not buy a backpack leaf blower, or any other gasoline piece of power equipment if you belong in any of these categories, and/or you live with anybody who fits in these categories:

In truth, you should not buy a gas powered backpack blower, or any gasoline power tool unless you need it for a commercial business or job. If you’re a homeowner, I recommend buying a quality cordless backpack leaf blower and save yourself from any of the many drawbacks from using gasoline power equipment. The risks of using gas power equipment strapped on your back is quite high when you factor in the toxic fumes you inhale, the strong vibrations and on top of it all, consider all of the potential harm created by the low frequency sounds emitted. This is not a joke and certainly you don’t hear about these dangers from the mainstream.

I recommend doing additional research and make up your own mind. I’m not here to sell you anything. My interest is to present you with good quality products but make sure you are armed with sufficient knowledge so you can make an informed decision. Your health is the most important thing in this world and if that means you have to spend a little more money to get a longer lasting battery then I personally would do that. The choice is yours to make.

Additional Research:

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Small Gasoline Powered Engines / CDC
• Lawn and Garden Equipment / Noise Free America

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Let Go of Your Outdated Ideas About Battery Power

You might be surprised to learn that a battery-powered backpack leaf blower can be better at clearing leaves than a gas-powered backpack blower. In this buying guide I review both types for you to consider. Over the years I have found that many people have outdated ideas of what cordless power equipment can do. Truth is, technology has advanced a lot over the past two years, so keep an open mind as I help you choose the best backpack leaf blower for your specific needs and budget.

In 2023, choosing the best backpack leaf blower has never had more diversity of options. For example, the WORX 80V Nitro (WG572) is a new 80V battery-powered blower that produces 800 CFM (air volume) and 150 mph of blowing force. It’s lightweight at 25 lbs., making it easy for anyone to use and carry on their back. For most homeowners this is going to be an ideal backpack leaf blower, and recommended. On the other hand, if you need more blowing force for commercial applications then a gas-powered blower is going to serve your needs as they can reach well over 200 mph.

Example : Cordless vs Gas Backpack Leaf Blower

To give you an example of how impressive the WORX WG572 is, let’s compare it to the Makita EB5300TH which has a 52.5cc 4-stroke gas engine and has a blowing force of 184 MPH. Yes, it has more power for leaf clearing but it’s relatively comparable. The drawback of a cordless blower is that your battery life is limited to under an hour. With a gas backpack leaf blower you can use it all day, as long as you have gas to refuel it with.

Air Flow Measurement. What are Newtons?

Let’s be honest, backpack blowers are far more convenient to work with than traditional leaf blowers. They’re much easier on your back and they allow you to feel comfortable while you work. Sure, they cost a little more money but they are more powerful and far more ergonomic.

How do you determine which backpack leaf blower is the most powerful blower without testing them? Some folks will tell you to compare CFM figures, others will compare MPH figures or both. Well, I did some research and found that the best way is to compare the blowers’ force in Newton. This specification is currently not freely available, so it’s still difficult to find the best backpack leaf blowers using these figures.

To determine the real force delivered by a leaf blower, the American National Standard Institute introduced a new measurement method: ANSI B175.2. It measures the force generated by the actual airstream produced by the blower. Meaning it is not a calculated value, it’s measured. It’s also less confusing, and it’s sure to improve testing accuracy and consistency. A Newton is a unit of force. It combines the effect of the airspeed of the blower and the air volume into one easy-to-understand unit of measure.

Husqvarna 350 BT / Gas Backpack Leaf Blower

Newton figures are not available for some of the backpack leaf blowers under review, so I had to compromise. Most leaf blower manufacturers still use the old CFM and MPH figures. What I did was to convert these figures and calculate the force for those blowers. I had to use the figures given by each manufacturer, even knowing it’s based on their calculated values which could be misleading. I say it could be misleading because the figures differ depending on where and how it is determined. That detail is not available to us, but I believe that we are at least closer to comparing apples to apples. Newton figures are available for the Husqvarna blowers, and therefore I used them.

Please keep in mind, the figures I used for my calculations are not tested to ANSI B175.2 methods but calculated from what’s available. We cannot compare it to manufacturer numbers who already use the approved methods. In doing so, I found that these figures could be a bit optimistic. It also proves that calculating the value is not 100% accurate, it is only a guideline figure.

So, which backpack leaf blower is the most powerful, or, which one is the best backpack leaf blower? To find that out you will have to read the review, knowing at least that it is based on a more accurate assessment.

Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blowers

We review seven of the best backpack leaf blowers:

• Echo PB-580T: Two-stroke gas engine with a tube-mounted throttle.
• (3x) Husqvarna Backpack leaf blowers
  • Husqvarna 150BT : 50cc, 434 cfm (in pipe), 251 mph, 22.5 lbs.
  • Husqvarna 350BT : 50.2 cc, 494.41 cfm, 180 mph, 22.5 lbs.
  • Husqvarna 360BT : 65.6 cc, 631 cfm, 232 mph (104 mph/round nozzle), 23.2 lbs.
• (2x) Makita blowers  (both are 4-stroke gas) :
  • Makita EB5300TH MM4 :  52.5 cc, , 516 CFM, 184 MPH, 19.7 lbs., 70 dB
  • Makita EB7650TH MM4 : 75.6 cc, 670 CFM, 200 MPH, 24.1 lbs., 76 dB 

I found that the backpack leaf blower with the highest CFM measure is not the most powerful. Nor is the one with the highest airspeed the winner. Some interesting comparisons follow in the reviews of these powerful backpack leaf blowers. We do end up with a clear winner in this group, and I think it will surprise some readers.

Echo PB-580T | Best Backpack Blower

Two-stroke gas engine with a tube-mounted throttle.

Features:

• 58.2cc professional-grade, 2-stroke engine — delivers superior power and durability
• Leaf guard — for keeping debris out of fan intake
• Metal wear ring — protects blower pipe from damage
• Padded backrest and shoulder straps — for comfortable operation
• Pleated, automotive style air filter — provides superior air filtration for long engine life
• Posi-loc pipe connectors — for a secure connection
• Tube mounted throttle
• Vented back pad —  allows air to circulate around the user for greater operator comfort in hot weather
• Engine Displacement : 58.2 cc
• Maximum Air Speed : 215 mph
• Noise Level : 70 dB
• Dry Weight : 22.6 lbs.
• Fuel Capacity: 62 (fl. oz.)
• Consumer Warranty : 5 years
• See-Through Fuel Tank
• Commercial Warranty : 2 years

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Echo PB-580T.

Overview

Echo is machined in Japan and assembled in factories around the world. They only manufacture commercial grade machines, and this blower is one of them. Their first backpack blower was manufactured in 1950, and the company built a solid reputation as a quality producer. The Echo PB-580T has a two-stroke gas engine of 58.2cc and delivers 2.79 hp. Its calculated blowing force is 23.6 (510 CFM, 215 MPH), and as such, it is ranked as the third strongest blower in our list. The seven backpack leaf blowers in our review generate a blowing force ranging from 20.0 to 30.0 Newton. Five of them deliver a force between 20 and 23.6.

This Echo PB-580T is quieter than most leaf blowers. Only two gas-powered blowers in our review have a rating of 70 dB, the other one is the Makita EB5300TH. According to my reference, it is as loud as busy traffic or a household vacuum cleaner at 3 feet. It’s quieter than the wife’s hair blower and below the hearing loss level, but I still recommend using ear protection.

The weight of the gas-powered blowers in our list range from 19.7 to 23.8 pounds. This one weighs 22.6 pounds.

The blower system has a leaf guard to keep debris out of the fan intake, and it also aids in making the blower quieter. This one differs from the rest with its metal wear ring at the end of the blower pipe. It protects the blower pipe from damage and extends its lifetime. I prefer it to rubber tips which wear down over time. Like all the models reviewed, it has Posi-loc™ pipe connectors that easily connect and disconnect. The throttle is conveniently mounted on the tube and it includes all the engine controls.

The backrest and shoulder straps are comfortably padded, and it has a vented back pad which allows air to circulate around the user. This all adds up to greater operator comfort, especially in warm weather. It is in those dry, warm months that the blower will churn up dust which can be sucked into the engine. It is therefore good to know that it has a palm-sized pleated automotive style air filter that is easy to remove. The Commercial Warranty is good for 2 years. When used for homeowner application it’s covered by a limited warranty of five years.

You can use an Echo rain gutter kit with your ECHO blower to clear out dirt and debris from the rain gutters. It’s easy to use and install, extending the blower pipe with fittings that make it easy to clear the gutters. To my mind, it’s the ideal option for homeowners with one story homes who want to clean gutters. The Echo rain gutter kit extends you reach by 7′, so you can easily reach 15′ first story levels without using a ladder.

VIDEO | See the Fantastic Echo PB-580T in Action

Customer feedback is very positive, and many users commented that the blower is easy to start. Although it does seem to need a few pulls during really cold winter temperatures. Another feature that is really appreciated, is the low noise levels which are comfortably blocked by ear muffs. Vibration levels are acceptably low, and the backpack fits most users very well. Everyone is impressed by its blowing power and would recommend this blower to friends.

Is it the best backpack leaf blower? If selected on blowing force alone, this blower came in as no. 3 on our list and it’s certainly worth considering. Remember, the absolute best leaf blower really depends on your needs and budget.

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Husqvarna backpack leaf blowers

We review 3 models : 150BT, 350BT and 360BT

• Husqvarna 150BT : 50cc, 434 cfm, 251 mph, 22.5 lbs.
• Husqvarna 350BT : 50.2 cc, 494.41 cfm, 180 mph, 22.5 lbs.
• Husqvarna 360BT : 65.6 cc, 631 cfm, 232 mph (104 mph/round nozzle), 23.2 lbs.

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Review : Husqvarna 150BT —

50cc, 434 cfm, 251 mph, 22.5 lbs. Blow Force : 20 Newtons

We’ve selected three Husqvarna backpack leaf blower models; the 150BT, 350BT, and 360BT. They are all very similar, with the same features and use the same fittings. I will, therefore, discuss these units in general and point out the differences. I always find Husqvarna model numbers confusing and with their backpack blowers it’s the same.

The Husqvarna 360BT is the most powerful blower of the three, delivering a rated blowing force of 30 Newton. In fact, it is the most powerful of all the blowers in the review. The 350BT beats the 150BT with a given blowing force of 21.0 Newton (494CFM, 180 MPH) compared to 20.0 Newton (434CFM, 251 MPH) for the 150BT. All the blowers in this review are powerful backpack leaf blowers that work up a storm. They will do an exceptional job of cleaning any driveway and will effortlessly remove leaves. They will even blow away mulch and fallen branches. You will have to be very careful near flower beds.

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Review : Husqvarna 350BT —

50.2 cc, 494.41 cfm, 180 mph, 22.5 lbs. : Blow Force : 21 Newtons

Specs (350BT):

• Power output: 2.1 HP
• Cylinder displacement: 50.2 cc
• Maximum power speed: 7500 RPM
• Fuel tank volume: 42.27 fluid ounces
• Sound power level (LWA): 104 dB(A)
• Weight: 22.5 pounds

All the Husqvarna models use their X-Torq two-stroke engines. Interestingly, the engines of the 350BT and 150BT are the same size, 50.2cc. The Husqvarna 360BT has a bigger engine (65.6cc), and it’s second to the Makita EB7650TH with a 75.6cc four-stroke engine. These engines are well-known and reliable. It’s good to know that the Husqvarna backpack blowers have large pleated, automotive style air filters to protect their engines.

The only drawback of the two-stroke engines is the need for specially mixed fuels. These engines are also not compatible with fuels containing ethanol. Husqvarna engines start easily and are known to be dependable.

I could not determine the fuel consumption of all the backpack blowers in our review because not all the information is available. Normally, the fuel consumption of the Husqvarna engines will compare very well to blowers of the same size and compare very well to the Makita four-stroke engines. The 150BT and 350Bt blowers use 0.21 gallons per hour and will run for an hour and a half on a tank of fuel. The Makita machines are the lightest on fuel although its runtime is lower than the other blowers, because it has a smaller fuel tank.

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Most Promising Cordless Backpack Leaf Blower : WORX WG572 / 80V Nitro

Features :

• The Power to Outperform – Worx NITRO™ tools are engineered to provide greater power, performance, and run time.
• Innovative 80V backpack leaf blower powered by (4) 20V 5Ah Power Share batteries.
• Variable speed control, plus Turbo mode for added control in both tight spaces and large areas.
• Featuring a high efficiency brushless motor that runs 50% longer, is 25% more powerful, and has 10% longer life when compared to brushed motors.
• Dual air intake pulls in additional air for greater air volume output.
• Sonic turbine fan technology delivers 800 CFM of forceful, high-capacity air volume.
• Base Camp portable/transferable power source and 4-port charger powers blower, charges all 4 batteries at once, and offers the compatibility to power other Worx 80V tools.
• The high-speed motor is compact, powerful, and easy to maneuver to clear larger spaces faster.

The WG572 is an impressive backpack leaf blower from WORX. It’s capable of clearing wet leaves or dry leaves that have been stuck to the ground for a long period of time. It has 800 CFM, which is exceptional for battery power, making this ideal for clearing large areas and/or for moving wet leaves sticking to the ground. Most other cordless backpack leaf blowers produce around 600 CFM.

This WORX leaf blower is equal or better than many gas powered backpack leaf blowers and for less money. At only 23.6 pounds you’ll find this very comfortable to use for extended periods of time. The only drawback is that you’re limited by battery life, so you might want to consider buying a second set of batteries so you can run this all day. While you work you can be charging your second set of batteries, allowing you the freedom to use it all day long like a gas leaf blower. The advantages are numerous : No maintenance, quieter, no fumes, lightweight, etc

This Model from WORX is easily one of the best cordless backpack leaf blowers if you value convenience. Highly recommended in 2023.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at the New 80V WORX Nitro Backpack Blower (WG572)

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Review : Husqvarna 360BT —

65.6 cc, 631 cfm, 232 mph (104 mph/round nozzle), 23.2 lbs.

The Husqvarna backpack leaf blowers are the noisiest of all the blowers on review. Sound levels of 95 and 94dB seem very loud to me when the other manufacturers manage 76 and 70dB. The given noise levels are louder than the level at which sustained exposure will result in hearing loss (85 dB). Good quality hearing protection with at least 30 dB attenuation is a must with this group of Husqvarna blowers.

Vibration levels from these engines are well dampened and will not affect the user. Feedback from users is very positive and most report no fatigue after prolonged use.

The 360BT is the heaviest Husqvarna and weighs 23.2 pounds. The 350BT and 150BT both weigh 22.5 pounds. This is average for backpack leave blowers, and the comfortable, wide shoulder straps make them easy to use. A waistband or hip belt is not included, and some customers did complain about it so it may be a worthy addition.

The Husqvarna 360Bt is the most powerful backpack leaf blower of all blowers on review here. Believe me, it is powerful. One user commented that it can drive small plants out of the ground and many mentioned it can blow graveled pathways away.

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Review : Makita EB5300TH MM4 — 4-Stroke

52.5 cc, 516 CFM, 184 MPH, 19.7 lbs., 70 dB. One of the best 4-stroke backpack leaf blowers for the money.

Features (Makita EB5300TH MM4) :

• Mechanical automatic engine decompression for quick and easy starts
• Shoulder straps engineered with multiple adjustments for improved fit
• Tool-less handle adjustment for quick positioning of handle
• Powerful fuel efficient 52.5 cc (2.5 HP) MM4® commercial duty engine
• Large capacity air filter is replaceable and easily accessible
• Padded back panel is ventilated for improved operator comfort
• Heavy duty anti-vibration mounts between frame and engine for improved operator comfort
• Adjustable tube easily adjusts to desired length
• Large grip positioned at optimum center of gravity for easier transport
• Large capacity muffler ensures quieter operation (70 dBA)
• Padded shoulder straps retain their shape for easier re-shouldering

Overview

The Makita “MM4” refers to the four-stroke engine used by both the models in our review. These four-stroke engines are cleaner-burning and more fuel-efficient than two-stroke engines. On top of that, there is no need to mix oil and fuel. I checked the figures, and it is 5% more fuel efficient than the two-stroke engine of the Husqvarna 360BT that delivers the same power. It burns less oil and surprisingly, the Makita is almost the same weight as the Husqvarna. I would call it a mean little engine.

I calculated the blowing force of the EB5300TH MM4 as 20 (516 CFM, 184 MPH), the same as the Husqvarna 150BT. To my surprise I found that the Makita with its four-stroke engine is lighter than the 150BT, not much, only about 3 pounds. The big difference between these blowers is the noise it makes, Husqvarna produces 94 dB and the Makita 70 dB. Your neighbors will really appreciate this blower’s low noise levels.

With these two blowers being equal in so many respects, I would go for the Makita. It is quieter and it eliminates the need to have special fuel mixes available. And if you still like to compare cubic feet per minute, the Makita wins, 516 against 434 CFM. So even though I took care to get my calculations close, I believe that the Makita could be a bit more powerful than the 150BT.

Run-time figures for this Makita are not available and I could not calculate it from the information given. The engine has the same compression lowering device as its bigger brother and therefore it starts easily. Both Makita models use a diaphragm carburetor that is easy to prime and control.

The tube length can be altered by replacing the standard pipe with an optional shorter pipe, it is not adjustable.

The comfortable padded back panel is ventilated to allow fresh air to circulate around your back. It’s good to know that your back will be comfortable on a warm fall day of leaf blowing.

The control handle is located on the blower pipe for better pipe control. The handle position can be adjusted forward and backward up to 100mm (4”) to suit the user. The throttle control lever has a lock-on button that locks the throttle in position. It’s a useful addition that saves your finger during long continuous operation. It also allows the engine to run at a constant speed which reduces strain on the motor and saves fuel.

The blower is not supplied with a hip belt, it’s an optional accessory which may be considered for carrying the blower more stable.

The rest of the features are the same as the Makita EB7650TH backpack blower. I like the simplicity of two-stroke engines even though the four-stroke engines run cleaner and quieter. Today, we can no longer ignore pollution and I might, therefore, be tempted to choose a brushless, battery powered blower. Though this does mean less power, so not everyone will agree with this.

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Makita EB7650TH MM4 — 4-stroke

— 75.6 cc, 670 CFM, 200 MPH, 24.1 lbs., 76 dB. — Best Four-stroke Backpack leaf blower if you need a powerful blower to clear a wide range of yard debris around your home or business.

Features:

• Mechanical automatic engine decompression for quick and easy starts
• Shoulder straps engineered with multiple adjustments for improved fit
• Tool-less handle adjustment for quick positioning of handle
• Powerful fuel efficient 75.6 cc (3.8 HP) MM4 commercial duty engine
• Large capacity air filter is replaceable and easily accessible
• Padded back panel is ventilated for improved operator comfort
• Heavy duty anti-vibration mounts between frame and engine for improved operator comfort
• Adjustable tube easily adjusts to desired length
• Large grip positioned at optimum center of gravity for easier transport
• Large capacity muffler ensures quieter operation (76 dBA)
• Padded shoulder straps retain their shape for easier re-shouldering

Overview

The Makita backpack leaf blowers are fitted with what they refer to as “mechanical automatic engine decompression” for quick and easy starts. It appears that a special exhaust cam lobe lowers the engine compression during manual starting. When the engine fires up, centrifugal forces disable the feature, and the engine runs at full power. It’s a great, yet simple feature that makes it a lot easier to start the engine. It is a mechanical decompressor so there is no operator involvement and it works every time you yank the cord. That’s a real muscle saver.

VIDEO | Learn more about the Makita EB7650TH MM4

The Makita EB7650TH MM4 blower and the Husqvarna 360BT have the most powerful engines in our review. Interestingly, the Husqvarna two-stroke engine achieves this with 10cc (13%) less than the Makita engine. The Makita engine is a 75.6 cc (3.8 HP) MM4® commercial duty engine. It has heavy duty anti-vibration mounts between the frame and engine, reducing vibrations thereby improving operator comfort. Vibrations are further absorbed by the wide, padded shoulder straps.

Sometimes a leaf blower can blow up a lot of dust, even unintentionally. It is, therefore, comforting to see that the air filter has a large capacity, and it’s easy to replace.

The one feature on this blower that I really like is the large capacity muffler that ensures quieter operation. At 76 dB, it is one of the quietest blowers on our list, and it’s the second-most powerful blower by a small margin. That is a real achievement and good news for backpack blower users and their neighbors. In fact, it is quieter than most of the gas-powered tools we use. This noise level is much like a busy street or a vacuum cleaner. The given noise levels are below the level at which sustained exposure will result in hearing loss (85 dB).

It has the same comfortable, ventilated back panel as the EB5300TH, allowing fresh air to circulate around your back. So you get the same benefits.

The control handle is also located on the blower pipe and the position can be adjusted forward and backward up to 100mm (4”). The throttle control lever has the same controls as the EB5300TH. It allows the engine to be locked at a constant speed which reduces strain on the motor and reduces strain on your finger.

The tube length can be altered by replacing the standard pipe with an optional shorter pipe, there is no adjustment. So the advertised claim that this tube is adjustable, can be a bit misleading.

For picking up and carrying the blower it has a large grip positioned at the optimum center of gravity to make transporting it easier. With this being the heaviest blower in the lineup, this handle is an important aid.

The Makita EB7650TH blower is not supplied with a hip belt, it’s an optional accessory. This is the heaviest backpack leaf blower on review and I think it is a pity that it is not supplied with a hip belt. I know from my backpacking days that it makes a huge difference.

Tech Specs:

• Engine Displacement (cc) : 75.6 cc
• Engine (HP) : 3.8 HP
• Max. Air Volume : 670 CFM
• Max. Air Velocity : 200 MPH
• Fuel Type : Unleaded gas
• Fuel Tank Capacity : 64 oz.
• Crank Case Capacity : 7.4 oz.
• Sound Pressure : 76 dB
• Dry Weight : 24.1 lbs.
• Blower Type : Backpack
• Power Type : 4-stroke gas
• User Type : Professional
• Shipping Weight : 33.9 lbs.

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Summary | Best Backpack Leaf Blower

After reading this, I am prepared to bet that you think my choice of the best backpack leaf blower is the Husqvarna 360BT. It has the most powerful engine by a very small margin, and its confirmed air force is the highest. True, but it is the noisiest, uses more fuel, and you have to use special fuel mixtures, so my choice would be the Makita EB7650TH. The 95dB of the Husqvarna being the deal breaker.

The Makita delivers a mean blow, and it is second only by a small margin. Its 28.3 Newton is only 1.7 Newton less than the Husqvarna. Both manufacturers deliver outstanding quality, and both blowers perform exceptionally well. Maybe it’s down to my personal preference, but that is how I rate them.

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What can I use a leaf blower for?

A few ideas & some advice.

I’m sure you will find many uses, but be careful not to let water vapor or snow enter the blower vents. A use for the powerful thrust delivered by the blowers that I never thought of is to clean out the gutters. I do not recommend getting onto steps or onto the roof to blow leaves from the gutters, it’s too dangerous. But, if your blower of choice can be adapted with extension pipes and bent nozzles, it is a powerful way of clearing out the gutters.

Use a Leaf Blower to Clean Your Car

If you do not own a shop blower, the backpack blower can be used to blow out the internals of the car. It will even blow bottles out. It’s a bit of an overkill and not as easy to handle as a shop blower. It can be effectively used to remove light powdery snow from the car. Many YouTube videos are proof that extensive build-ups can be removed.

Just because you can, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should use a leaf blower to clean your car. Although, you could also use it to try your car after washing. Personally, I believe in buying the right tools for the job, so if you want a great car vacuum, get the

Don’t clean your air conditioner or heat pump

I’m sure you can find many reasons to fire up your leaf blower. Please do not use it to clean out the internals of the heat pump or air conditioner. The fins on the condenser or evaporator are not up to the forces generated by backpack leaf blowers. They will bend, closing the air passages. It is even possible to dislodge wire connections. The same applies to the car air conditioner.

The same care must be given to the engines in leaf blowers as for mowers, chainsaws, and other gas-powered tools. Please read the manual and follow the manufacturer’s advice. You should start and use it at least once in three months to circulate oil through the engine. It’s also important to run the carburetor dry before you put it away for extended periods. Use the left-over fuel, do not store it. Rather amuse yourself by blowing over bottles or logs.