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10 Best Gas Leaf Blowers of 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
Pete Ortiz
Last updated:
You may need to meet homeowner’s association standards for your lawn, or perhaps you run a landscaping business. When looking at leaf blowers to get the job done, you noted that electric blowers are great for the environment and emit less noise than their gas-powered alternatives.
But, for whatever reason, you’ve decided on a gas-powered leaf blower. Chances are, you really need the extra power to get the job done fast.
Gas-powered leaf blowers have highly pollutive 2-stroke engines that give off more carbon emissions than any motor vehicle on the market today. The emissions from these types of engines have caused several governments around the world to ban 2-stroke engines for environmental reasons.
Additionally, a gas-powered leaf blower is much louder than the electrical counterpart. The low-frequency bass-like sound that persists; this noise penetrates barriers, rendering your (very necessary) hearing protection all but useless and causing significant hearing damage over time.
Even so, to help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of what we have found to be the best gas-powered leaf blowers of the year.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024:
Rating
Image
Product
Details
Best Overall
Hitachi Gas Powered Leaf Blower
441 CFM allows for excellent debris movement
9 cc means outstanding power output
6 fl oz fuel tank capacity: small tank usually means gas lasts longer
This Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower boasts a “low emission” 2-stroke engine “for a better environment.” While that is scientifically improbable, it does have an impressive 7-year/2-year/1-year warranty for consumer, commercial, and rental use, respectively. The engine is also built for a long life span and superior power output.
Lightweight and easy to use, this leaf blower is handheld and packs some real power, with an air velocity of 170 MPH and a tapered nozzle for excellent direction and debris removal.
If you’re familiar with the hand fatigue of using handheld gas-powered machinery, you may be relieved to know that this blower’s throttle lever is large, meant for two fingers, to reduce fatigue and ease the operation.
Pros
441 CFM allows for excellent debris movement
6 fl oz fuel tank capacity: small tank usually means gas lasts longer
9 cc means outstanding power output
Cons
2-stroke engines are highly pollutive
You may need to check with your city or county to ensure 2-stroke engines are allowed
This high-rated handheld leaf blower from Craftsman boasts great performance with outstanding affordability. It is difficult for us to rank this as number two, because of the great features it hosts, but the fact is, with more power comes more damage to the environment – and your hearing.
This lightweight blower is designed for balance and to help reduce fatigue from use, with a user-friendly design that includes a translucent fuel tank. That means you will see when the gas is low enough to need filling, without any guesswork or waiting for the machine to just stop running.
The old phrase, “Work smarter, not harder,” has been applied by Craftsman to this budget-friendly handheld leaf blower. All in all, we think this is the best gas leaf blower for the money we have reviewed.
Pros
200 MPH superior air velocity moves your lawn debris quickly
Quick startup technology: prime, choke, and pull
Oil is conveniently included with your purchase
Cons
2-stroke engines may be banned in your area due to environmental and health concerns
Less effective in preventing hand fatigue with use
This Husqvarna Backpack Blower model is a top choice for backpack leaf blowers, with a high rating to back it up. In fact, it even boasts an X-Torq engine design, claiming a 60% reduction of the harmful exhaust emission by providing a 20% increase to fuel efficiency.
We would probably rank this blower number one, but it is on the pricier side, and as a backpack blower, it is heavier than handheld counterparts. However, it remains in our top three because of its superior design and technological considerations.
The handle is offset to help reduce arm strain during use, and it features an air purge to get air out of the carburetor and fuel system and make for an easier startup.
Pros
8100 RPM yields high blowing capacity
X-Torq engine improves fuel efficiency
Superior air power makes quick work of large properties
Cons
Heavier model: 23.5 lb
2-stroke engine is loud and will penetrate your hearing protection
Poulan Pro’s backpack leaf blower model is a top-rated, lightweight piece of machinery featuring adjustable shoulder straps to help with improved comfort, minimizing strain, and reduction of fatigue for users. It features a 2-stroke engine with no technological improvements for environmental concerns.
When looking for power, this model holds its own with high miles per hour (MPH) and cubic feet per minute (CFM) – the two factors that really come into play with any gas-powered engine. It includes a throttle control allowing you to adjust the speed of the air coming out, so you can decide which is best for getting the job done in your lawn.
This backpack blower is an excellent choice for power when it comes to clearing lawn debris, but it falls short of our top three due to the lack of effort made concerning fuel emissions and its higher price point.
Pros
48 cc engine produces plenty of power
200 MPH/475 CFM makes for high air power
22 lb lightweight design
Cons
Highly pollutive 2-stroke engine will damage your hearing
Another top-rated model, the Tanaka handheld blower is quite powerful for its size. This one will hit harder on the budget, as it is a pricier model. It features the typical 2-stroke engine of gas-powered leaf blowers and high MPH and CFM for more powerful airflow and velocity.
The lightweight design of this handheld model, like many others, is designed for balance and comfort to help reduce fatigue during use. It also comes with an excellent 7-year consumer warranty and a large throttle made for two-finger use, to aid comfort of operation.
A handheld blower like this one is ideal for smaller properties, as it is easy to use and easy to store.
Pros
Lightweight: less than 9 lb
9 cc commercial-grade engine
441 CFM and 170 MPH
Cons
Highly pollutive 2-stroke engine will damage your hearing
Hand fatigue and numbness are more likely for large lawns and properties
Poulan Pro’s handheld leaf blower model is on the more affordable side and features a lightweight and boasted comfortability. Notable features include a soft-grip handle that helps reduce vibration and provide a soft touch.
What makes this blower stand out is its use as a vacuum that can produce mulch. It has a 2-year warranty and its versatility does little to limit its power output.
Weighing in at under 5 pounds, this handheld blower is suitable for adults of any size. Unlike some heavier models, the Poulan Pro PPBV25 requires less carrying effort and is great for clearing debris from smaller properties and suburban lawns.
Pros
88 lb makes this super lightweight and easy to use
450 CFM/230 MPH for great air power
Versatility: vacuum function with mulch ability
Cons
Highly pollutive 2-stroke engine noise will penetrate your hearing protection
May be difficult to start and keep going for the length of your job
Multi-functional use may result in reduced efficiency in debris removal
Remington is a well-known name among motorized equipment for household use. The top-rated RM2BV Ambush Gas Leaf Blower is about average when it comes to affordability, with several notable features.
The design for this handheld blower features a vacuum accessory, making it a 2-in-1 device with versatility for taking care of your lawn and removing debris. The reduction ratio plays into the vacuum feature, which will significantly help in reducing leaf size and the size of other lawn debris (twigs, etc.). This means you will need fewer bags for cleanup at the end of the job.
Featuring a spring-assisted coil, the Remington handheld leaf blower/vacuum combination is designed to reduce the effort needed to start the machine, which results in you getting started immediately without the frustrating struggle of having to yank and pull several times just to kick it into gear.
Pros
Versatile blower/vacuum makes quick work of lawn debris
Cruise control feature allows you to choose the airstream force and let the throttle rest
Comfortable handle helps reduce and absorb vibration
Cons
Highly pollutive 2-stroke engine noise will penetrate your hearing protection
On the heavier side of handheld blowers: 12.8 lb
Startup requires several steps and may be complicated
The Makita BHX2500CA Leaf Blower features a 4-stroke engine, which is less pollutive than the 2-stroke option that comes standard in most leaf blowers. Ordinarily, this would make the product one of our favorites instantly. But, you’re looking at gas-powered blowers because you need to get your lawn care jobs done quickly, efficiently, and with as much power as you can find within your budget.
The fuel-efficient 4-stroke engine meets EPA and CARB regulations for exhaust and evaporative emissions, making this leaf blower better for the environment. Ultimately, you save money on fuel costs with this model as a result of superior engine design. However, it is not without its drawbacks, including a heavier weight and its lack of efficiency on larger lawns, which ultimately ranked it lower on our list.
Pros
5 cc 4-stroke fuel-efficient engine emits fewer emissions and less noise
May exceed requirements from the EPA and CARB concerning exhaust and emissions
Cons
8 lb is not the lightest weight handheld model
Less effective on large lawns
Handling it right-handed may result in clothing blocking the airflow
Vapor lock may cause engine to stop running after a short time
The SENIX BL4QL-L handheld leaf blower boasts a 4-stroke engine with lower vibration intensity and no need to mix gas with oil for operation. Like other 4-stroke engines, this results in lower carbon emissions and less noise, reducing the damage to your hearing and the environment.
This model has a great design – that’s why we have it in our top 10! Its power and air velocity compare well to other models of its kind, and like other handheld blowers, it has a lightweight design meant for comfort in operation.
Notably, this model features an auto-choke release meant to ease startup, and its CFM is designed to move debris even when it is wet and heavy.
However, it can’t perform like our top picks, due in large part to its general heaviness and lack of efficiency. It also gets quite hot on a long job. All in all, that’s why it landed in our number nine spot.
Pros
4-stroke engine does not require mixing gas and oil and produces fewer emissions and less noise
125 MPH/CFM with 26.55 cc engine to move yard debris efficiently
Quick and easy startup with a small fuel tank saves you money on fuel costs
Cons
Not available in California
Throttle adjustment lower than full power may result in lowered efficiency, which can be exacerbated by the straight, non-tapered nozzle
4-stroke engine results in heavier weight and lower power than 2-stroke options
The LawnMaster NPTBL31AB backpack blower is a powerful option with a tapered nozzle. It is small in size but features a high-powered 2-stroke engine with powerful air volume and high CFM. It is a bit on the pricier side, which is common with backpack models as compared to handheld blowers.
User convenience is a priority with this model, featuring an automatic choke and variable speed and cruise control. Set the speed you want and then hit the cruise control so you can release the throttle and help reduce hand fatigue.
Notably, this backpack blower features an electric push start button, meaning you won’t have to spend any time or effort pulling or yanking a cord to get the engine started!
That being said, it does operate on batteries, which makes it a pain to keep charged. This, coupled with his high pollution and the fact that it’s not good for left-handed people, is what brought it to the bottom of our list.
Pros
31 cc engine with 470 CFM/175 MPH
Anti-vibration engine mount features padded ventilated harness to reduce fatigue and increase comfort
No-pull electric button start is good for up to 150 starts on a single charge
Cons
No-pull models are unavailable in California
Highly pollutive 2-stroke engine noise will penetrate your hearing protection
Requires batteries
Configured for right-hand use only, not recommended for left-handed people
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Gas Leaf Blower
It is important to make an informed decision concerning your lawn care needs. Deciding on a leaf blower to keep your lawn and pathways clear can be a big task, with as many options as there are on the market for products.
Please read through this buyer’s guide before deciding on any blower, whether you choose one from our reviews or make a different decision entirely. We go over some key components that could heavily impact the performance of your blower and even how you prioritize your needs.
Important Considerations
Chances are, you have decided to purchase a gas-powered leaf blower because you want a high power-to-weight ratio that will clear debris from your property quickly and efficiently. Below are some factors to take into account when considering buying a gas-powered leaf blower.
Image Credit: Smileus, Shutterstock
Pollution
It is important to note, in making an informed decision, that gas-powered leaf blowers are more pollutive than automobile engines. Two-stroke engines produce exponentially more carbon emissions than vehicles, and the noise output will cause hearing damage over time due to the low frequencies that penetrate barriers, including hearing protection.
Our top-rated products boast technology that helps limit emissions. This is meant to help you breathe easily while you work, but it is still important to note that with a 2-stroke engine, unless there is specific technology added, emissions are much higher than modern-day motor vehicles and other gas engines, such as the 4-stroke.
Local Regulations
Because of its environmental impact, the 2-stroke engine has been phased out in some communities. It may be important for you to check with your city or county, or even your state, to make sure 2-stroke engines are allowed for use in your area.
This is especially important if you are running a business, as you will want to adhere to guidelines in different locales as you travel for your work.
Hearing
Always wear hearing protection when operating a leaf blower. While the low-frequency noise from a 2-stroke engine will penetrate your earmuffs, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still wear them. It just means you need to be aware of the possibility of hearing damage despite wearing protection.
Noise
Never run your leaf blower in close proximity to babies, small children, or pets. Be mindful as well of the possibility of receiving noise complaints from your neighbors, as all gas-powered leaf blowers produce high decibel levels of noise.
If noise is a real concern for you, a 4-stroke engine will be quieter than a 2-stroke, and while it may be heavier and have a lower ratio of power to weight, the 4-stroke engine will be less pollutive than a 2-stroke and it will still produce more power than an electric blower.
In addition to rising environmental concerns, different states, cities, and neighborhoods have differing restrictions concerning noise levels. When considering a product, check the details to find decibel levels and ensure you are complying with your local regulations.
Determining Product Quality
Product quality may be determined through a variety of factors. Even if high power is your primary focus and the driving reason for purchasing a gas-powered leaf blower, you may still find it important to consider comfort during use, how hot the machine gets, and how long it can run before overheating.
Image Credit: Rabbitti, Shutterstock
Power and Function
Power is especially important when running a business, so while you may need to consider comfort as a priority, too, you will want to find a blower that can move pebbles and wet debris in addition to dry leaves and twigs.
Startup is made easier on a gas-powered blower with simplified choke operation.
We go oversizes and types of leaf blowers below, but when looking for a quality product, consider whether you need the machine just to blow the debris away, or whether you want it to also vacuum up your leaves and lawn debris to create mulch and reduce the resulting size of your cleanup.
Reduction Ratio
When considering blower/vacuum combination machines, pay attention to the reduction ratios. These ratios are representative of how many bags of leaves can be reduced to a single bag with the blower/vac’s mulching capabilities.
For example, a 10:1 reduction ratio will reduce 10 bags of yard debris to a single bag, whereas a 16:1 ratio would be more efficient, reducing 16 bags of uncut leaves and debris to a single bag of mulch.
Buyer’s Tips
Look for a blower with a tapered nozzle. Typically, the tapered nozzle helps with the CFM rating, focusing the air moving out from the blower to better clear debris in a timely manner.
Note the size of fuel tanks and what product details say about fuel efficiency. While it is unavoidable that a 2-stroke engine will need more frequent refueling than a 4-stroke engine, not all engines of the same stroke are created equal.
Some handheld and backpack leaf blowers contain speed settings, allowing you more control over how much airflow is used and how much debris can be moved at a time. Others will have fixed settings or controls that allow variable speed. Some blowers, you set your speed and then lock the machine.
Comfort
It is always important to consider your needs and budget when purchasing lawn equipment. Likewise, it is important to consider comfort. If you are an older adult, the vibration and weight of the blower may be a great concern to you, and these considerations may affect your decision between a handheld or backpack blower.
It is easy to get caught up in numbers and letters, looking at cc’s, MPH, CFM, and so on, but if you want to work comfortably, look for sturdy, padded handles on handheld blowers and adjustable shoulder straps on backpack blowers.
Power Sources
Electric leaf blowers come corded with power measured by Amperes (Amps, or “A”), or cordless with power measured by Volts (V).
Corded options will provide steady power output and likely be more powerful than the cordless options. However, for the purposes of our reviews here, we are focused on gas-powered options.
Gas-Powered Engines
Gas-powered engines measure engine power in cubic centimeters (cc). Also, important to note in gas-powered blower specs are miles per hour (MPH) and cubic feet per minute (CFM). MPH ratings are an indication of the blower’s power concerning the speed at which air exits the unit, or how hard the blower blows.
Likewise, the CFM ratings tell you how much air volume the blower moves; higher CFM means more debris gets moved at a time.
Sizes and Types
Leaf blowers come with great variety in terms of size and type. Different backpack models come in different sizes with different weights and related power ratios.
Gas-powered leaf blowers come either handheld or as a backpack. You will want to see our reviews of walk-behind leaf blowers for larger equipment, as the walk-behind type of leaf blower is such a large classification on its own.
The size of your chute or tube that may come included with your vacuum-capable leaf blower helps determine your blower’s ability to collect leaves and lawn debris. Larger diameters will be more effective at collecting large amounts of lawn debris.
When considering blower/vacuum combination machines, it may not be ideal to find a tapered nozzle.
Backpack Blowers
Backpack leaf blowers are usually heavier than handheld models. They also have greater power output and are designed for use over longer periods of time. For a business, a backpack model may be ideal, while the handheld options may be best suited for private residential use.
Some backpack blowers also serve as vacuums that can do some mulching of your lawn debris. This can be highly convenient for cleanup, resulting in fewer bags being used and reducing or removing the need for extra mulching equipment.
Conclusion
Our reviews are written with you in mind. If you’re like us, you are buying gas power for power. Naturally, though, you don’t want to sacrifice comfort, which is why we emphasize blower designs in each of our reviews.
When it comes to power and comfort, we have found that nothing beats the Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower. At a reasonably affordable price, this is the best overall when it comes to performance in a handheld blower, and it is the most comfortable model we have found to that end.
Coming right alongside the Hitachi, we have found that the Craftsman B215 Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower is the absolute best bang for your buck. Its affordability does nothing to compromise the quality of work you can comfortably get done in a timely manner.
We hope we have made it a little easier for you to make an informed decision about your lawn care. Finding the right reviews can be challenging. It is our hope that the reviews we have provided here will be most helpful in your search for the right leaf blower for you.
Contents
Writer
Pete Ortiz
Pete has been working in the trades since high school, where he first developed a passion for woodworking. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing.
As the founder of House Grail, Pete's primary goal is to help consumers make educated decisions about DIY projects at home, in the garage, and in the garden.
