On October 24, 2024, TechStage conducted a comprehensive test of five cost-effective cordless leaf blowers. These devices are essential during the fall season for efficiently clearing slippery leaf-covered pathways and large gardens, traditionally managed with rakes and brooms. With models starting at just 45 euros, this analysis provides insights into their performance and usability.

Efficient Alternatives to Traditional Tools

Clearing paths of leaves is essential for safety and aesthetic reasons, especially in extensive gardens. Manual methods can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are affordable cordless options available. This guide evaluates five such models, assessing their effectiveness and answering crucial purchasing questions. This segment belongs to TechStage's gardening series, where other articles have focused on robotic lawnmowers and solar-powered lights.

Blowers vs. Vacuums

Leaf blowers essentially replace rakes by assembling leaves into piles that need to be collected and discarded. They are suitable for larger areas. Some blowers also function as vacuums, sucking leaves into a bag, sometimes shredding them to increase capacity. However, this adds weight and potential for inadvertently harming small creatures. Thus, while mentioned, the vacuum function is not extensively rated.

Top Five Cordless Leaf Blowers

1. Litheli Leaf Blower U20

Priced at approximately 110 euros, the Litheli U20 comes with two 20-volt batteries but lacks a charger, charging instead via USB-C. Weighing 2.7kg without batteries, it offers seamless speed adjustment and can reach up to 180 km/h with a turbo button. The battery life ranges from 15 to 30 minutes depending on power usage, and it stands out with its powerbank capability.

2. Gisam Leaf Blower

Available for about 100 euros, this model includes chargers and two 3 Ah batteries. It features interchangeable nozzles and two speed settings with a turbo mode, achieving over 250 km/h. Battery life is notable, lasting between 25 to 45 minutes.

3. Ryobi Leaf Blower

Sold for less than 60 euros without batteries, the Ryobi model is light at 1.6kg and compatible with Ryobi's 18-volt system. Its operation is straightforward, with a single speed setting and a moderate battery life of 18 minutes.

4. Einhell Venturro

At 101 euros, this model includes a vacuum feature with mulching capabilities, making it heavier at 3kg. It reaches speeds of 210 km/h but is quite noisy at 98 dB. It is best suited for users already invested in Einhell’s tool system.

5. Güde LB 18-201-05

For the budget-conscious, this 45-euro model includes a 2 Ah battery and charger. Its power is adequate for dry leaves but struggles with wet debris. It offers a manageable weight and 20-minute runtime per charge but requires lengthy recharging.

Environmental and Legal Considerations

Blowers can potentially disturb insects and wildlife, while noise pollution regulations restrict their use during specific hours. Eco-conscious buyers should weigh these concerns alongside the convenience provided.

Conclusion

Cordless leaf blowers can be a valuable investment for maintaining gardens and outdoor spaces, offering a blend of mobility and ease of use over traditional methods. Selection depends on the specific needs regarding power and mobility, with recommendations given for various models based on performance and cost-effectiveness.

For the original detailed review, please visit TechStage.