Radon test kits detect the presence of radon gas, a byproduct of uranium decay in rock and soil. Radon can enter homes by seeping through cracks in the foundation, slowly accumulating until it reaches dangerous levels. Prolonged exposure to this harmful gas can cause health issues like headaches or even cancer. 

Radon is tasteless, odorless, and colorless, making it undetectable without specialized radon testing equipment. These home technology tools can measure radon levels over a few days or months or provide continuous monitoring. Since no level of radon exposure is considered safe, knowing which radon sensor you can rely on is essential. 

After tapping a home safety expert for insights and testing a few popular options, we chose the Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector as the best radon test kit. It’s portable, has an easy-to-read screen, and takes multiple measurements to capture trends. Below, we detail what we like and don’t like about this product and the rest of our picks so you can choose one of the best radon test kits to keep your family safe.

1. BEST OVERALL: Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: First Alert RD1 Radon Test Kit
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Airthings Wave Plus Smart Radon Detector
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4. BEST SMART: Airthings View Plus Smart Air Quality & Radon Monitor
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5. BEST SHORT-TERM: AccuStar Short-Term Charcoal Canister Radon Test Kit
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6. BEST LONG-TERM: Ecosense RadonEye Radon Sensor & Detector
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Radon Test Kits Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

After researching dozens of radon test kits and testing a few as part of our guide on the best air quality monitors, we recommend the following six options for their ease of use, accuracy, and value. 

Best Overall

Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector

See It

What We Like

• First results shown on screen within 24 hours
• Lightweight and portable
• Displays both long- and short-term readings

What We Don’t Like

• Some users’ units stopped working after a few years

Specs

• Type Battery-operated device
• Results Instant on device
• Portability Portable

The Corentium Home radon detector kit by Airthings is one of the first continuous radon test kits to use batteries, allowing you to take it into any space that needs testing. The clear digital display provides both long- and short-term radon levels, revealing daily fluctuations as well as overall averages. Once you’ve tested your home for at least 30 days, Airthings also makes it easy to generate a free self-inspection report through its website. 

Though this portable radon detector does start delivering readings within 24 hours, the manufacturer recommends waiting at least 20 days before taking action if levels appear high. This ensures plenty of time for results to stabilize, so you know your readings are reliable. To test another area after your first test is complete, simply reset the unit and move it to a new location.  

Get the Airthings Corentium Home radon test kit at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Walmart, or Airthings.

Best Bang for the Buck

First Alert RD1 Radon Test Kit

See It

What We Like

• Listed under the EPA’s Radon Gas Measurement Proficiency Program
• Low price includes lab fees in most states
• Results emailed 3 to 5 business days after receipt

What We Don’t Like

• Can only be used once
• User pays shipping costs

Specs

• Type 1-time test kit
• Results Must be mailed to lab; results emailed 3 to 5 days after lab receipt
• Portability Portable

The First Alert RD1 home radon test kit is a simple and effective way to detect dangerous radon gas in your home. It essentially functions as a disposable radon detector that you allow to sit for a few days and then send away for results. To use, simply open the sealed activated charcoal packet, place it in the lowest livable area of your home, and leave it. After 2 to 4 days, seal it up and send it to the lab. Within 3 to 5 days of lab receipt, you’ll receive the results by email.

Unlike most mail-in radon test kits, this simple charcoal option includes the laboratory fee for most states (excluding New Jersey), though you will need to pay for shipping. Still, its price and reliability are difficult to beat for those looking for a one-time, short-term test.

Get the First Alert radon test kit at Amazon, Lowe’s, or First Alert.

Upgrade Pick

Airthings Wave Plus Smart Radon Detector

See It

What We Like

• Provides continuous results via Bluetooth
• Monitors radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature, and air pressure
• Visual indicator shows current air quality

What We Don’t Like

• Detailed results only available within Bluetooth range

Specs

• Type Battery-operated smart device
• Results Instant in app and on device
• Portability Portable; mounts to wall or ceiling

While the Airthings Wave Plus radon and air quality monitor is more expensive than our top two picks, it also tests a lot more than just radon. Once set up, this unit provides continuous readings for radon gas buildup, carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), humidity, temperature, and air pressure.

The Wave Plus radon gas monitor runs on batteries and is easy to mount on a wall or ceiling. Its on-unit color-coded display indicates whether air quality is good (green), fair (yellow), or bad (red). For more detailed information, pair the unit with the Airthings app via Bluetooth for real-time reading and tips on how to improve indoor air quality. You can also see current and past readings on Airthings’ web dashboard. 

What our tester says: “This Airthings monitor is quite an overachiever! As part of a larger test, we exposed it to a dish of oil-based stain for 2 hours. When we checked back in, the light was red (indicating hazardous air quality), and the app showed the volatile organic compound levels had spiked.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Airthings Wave Plus radon test kit at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Smart

Airthings View Plus Smart Air Quality & Radon Monitor

See It

What We Like

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity; compatible with IFTTT, Homey, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa
• Detects a wide range of pollutants and irritants
• Data available on unit, app, and Airthings website

What We Don’t Like

• Requires 6 AA batteries

Specs

• Type Battery- or USB-powered smart device
• Results Instant in app and on device
• Portability Portable; mounts to wall

This smart monitor from Airthings makes it easy to check levels of radon, PM2.5 (particulate matter), CO2, temperature, VOCs, air pressure, and humidity. It also provides pollen forecasts so those with allergies can stay informed about outdoor conditions. As a continuous radon monitor, this unit has its own display showing current levels, and users can also check the app or Airthings website for long-term readings. It also features a visual indicator with green, yellow, and red status lights for at-a-glance monitoring. 

The View Plus is compatible with IFTTT, Homey, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa and runs via batteries or the included USB-C cable. You can place it virtually anywhere indoors to test levels in multiple locations or mount it to the wall to ensure continually safe radon levels in a basement​.  

Get the Airthings View Plus radon test kit at Amazon or Airthings.

Best Short-Term

AccuStar Short-Term Charcoal Canister Radon Test Kit

See It

What We Like

• Same-day results available if received by noon
• Easy to use; requires zero technological know-how
• Durable canister design keeps results safe

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t measure radon; only reports whether levels are under 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter)

Specs

• Type 1-time test canister
• Results Must be mailed to lab; results available by next business day
• Portability Portable

This short-term test kit by AccuStar uses activated charcoal to absorb radon and its byproducts over a 48- to 96-hour period. Its easy-to-use design simply requires you to leave the unit undisturbed for a few days, mail it in, and wait for the results, which can arrive same-day if the canister is received by noon. 

Though the cost of the AccuStar radon detection kit includes laboratory fees, you will need to pay to ship the unit in. The durable canister protects the test unit while in transit, ensuring your results remain accurate and safe from interference. This low-tech pick is perfect for those nervous about determining radon safe levels on their own and real estate agents testing radon in homes for clients.

Get the AccuStar radon test kit at Amazon, The Home Depot (2-pack), or AccuStar Labs.

Best Long-Term

Ecosense RadonEye Radon Sensor & Detector

See It

What We Like

• First reading is 90 percent accurate and available in 10 minutes
• Results shown in app and on device
• Tracks short- and long-term readings and trends

What We Don’t Like

• Some reports of Bluetooth connectivity issues

Specs

• Type Plug-in device
• Results Instant in app and on device
• Portability Portable but requires outlet

The Ecosense RadonEye home radon detector takes 30 independent counts of pCi/L levels every hour, delivering the very first reading just 10 minutes after setup. To get started, simply plug in the electronic radon detector and leave it on a flat surface to allow it to begin collecting data. 

Short-term results from this radon gas detector are displayed on the unit’s OLED screen and updated every 10 minutes. Additional hourly, monthly, and yearly data is available via Bluetooth connectivity on the RadonEye app. This pick’s continuous monitoring system not only provides an average reading over time, it also sounds an alarm if radon levels exceed 4 pCi/L. 

Get the Ecosense radon test kit at Amazon, Walmart, or Ecosense.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Radon Test Kits

When gathering our list of recommendations, we primarily considered the most important aspects of radon home kits—accuracy and ease of use. We selected a variety of units that make it simple to test for radon, choosing a few one-time kits that need to be sent to a laboratory as well as several that offer instant access to results via the unit itself or an app.  

Most picks on our list are battery-operated units, though some can also be powered using a standard plug or a USB cable. We also included one low-tech option that does not require power at all and simply needs to sit and absorb radon for a few days before being mailed in for reading. Finally, since the prices of radon detectors can vary greatly, we were careful to include picks at a range of costs since everyone needs to be able to afford to test for cancer-causing radon gas. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Radon Test Kit

To select one of the best radon kits for your needs, it’s important to consider test type, accuracy, and ease of use and installation. 

Types of Radon Test Kits

A radon test kit will use one of several methods to test the air in your home for elevated radon levels. Regardless of which type of radon monitor you choose, these helpful devices are the only way to determine your family members’ exposure to this harmful gas other than a professional radon inspection. 

Short-Term Radon Test Kits

Radon kits for short-term use collect readings from your home over a 2- to 90-day period and must then be sent to a laboratory for the results to be read. The lab fees necessary for proper testing are likely included with your purchase, though shipping generally costs extra. 

Because short-term radon test kits are the fastest and least expensive test option, real estate agents often use them to check for safe radon levels before selling a home. However, since radon levels fluctuate, short-term test kits are not the most accurate testing method. For definitive results, long-term testing is necessary.

Long-Term Radon Test Kits

As their name indicates, long-term radon test kits are designed to test levels of radon gas over a longer period, such as weeks, months, or years. Like short-term tests, some are single-use devices that must be sent to a laboratory to be read, though others have screens or Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to monitor levels yourself. 

Since a long-term radon test kit collects a greater volume of data, periodic spikes that naturally occur are less likely to raise unnecessary alarms, which may happen with more limited readings. The downside of this type of detector is that it will typically be more expensive than a one-time use or short-term kit and may not be necessary if radon levels are consistently lower than 4 pCi/L.

Alpha-Track Radon Test Kits

The alpha-track radon test kit is a long-term test that measures levels of radon using polycarbonate plastic sheets placed in the lowest livable level of the home. If radon gas is present, it will emit alpha particles that create tracks on these sheets, with higher levels of gas producing greater numbers of tracks. Once the test kit has collected data for the suggested amount of time, it is sent in to be read. Generally speaking, alpha-track tests are more accurate than short-term test kits but don’t provide the ongoing measurements offered by long-term detectors.

Charcoal Radon Test Kits

Charcoal radon test kits are short-term options that work similarly to alpha-track units, though they use charcoal rather than polycarbonate plastic to measure levels. Generally speaking, they’re also cheaper and faster since they only monitor radon gas for between 2 and 90 days. For this reason, they are less accurate since they are susceptible to radon spikes and possible interference during shipping.

Digital Radon Test Kits

Digital radon test kits are also known as radon detectors, and they are the most expensive type of radon tester for home use. Most digital units can be mounted to the wall or ceiling or simply placed in the lowest level of the house. 

However, installation requirements typically extend well beyond mounting, as most of these kits use Bluetooth connectivity to deliver detailed readings to an app. Some digital kits also offer recent readings directly on the test unit, though their screens aren’t often large enough to display the long-term data that makes digital tests so valuable. Further adding to their worth, many digital kits also test home air quality levels of humidity, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and more. 

Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a radon test. Generally speaking, the longer a radon test kit collects data, the more accurate the results will be. This is because increased testing time allows you to determine average pCi/L levels without the influence of random positive or negative spikes.

Since short-term radon tests are susceptible to spikes in radon levels that can skew the average, they are considered the least accurate test option. Because they collect more data, long-term and continuous tests are the most accurate radon test kits available.

Ease of Use and Installation 

Radon test kits are designed to be easy to use, both for the consumer’s benefit and to ensure accurate results. Passive radon test kits, like charcoal and alpha-track test kits, are easy to set up but must be sent to a lab for results. 

On the other hand, active radon test kits, like digital radon detectors, are a bit more involved in setup but relatively easy to use after that. More advanced smart home-compatible detectors require additional technical know-how for ongoing use. It’s a good idea to consider your radon testing needs and comfort using technology before selecting a test kit.

FAQs

The following frequently asked questions section can help answer questions like “What is radon testing?” or “How much does a radon mitigation system cost?”. 

The post Yes, Your Home Needs a Radon Test Kit — And These Are the Best appeared first on Bob Vila.

Move over, duct tape, there’s another tape that has nearly as many uses. Double-sided tape can be used to adhere any two surfaces a user wants to stick together tightly—without the need for glue or nails—in crafting, household, industrial, or manufacturing applications.

With so many products to choose from, it can be hard to select the best double-sided tape for a project. We’ve done the legwork with this comprehensive review, aiming to help shoppers make the right purchase. Our favorite is the Tough & Clear from Gorilla, offering a versatile and strong bond suitable both indoors and outdoors.

1. BEST OVERALL: Gorilla Tough & Clear Double-Sided Mounting Tape
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Phinus Clear Waterproof Double-Sided Mounting Tape
3. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Hitlights Heavy-Duty Double-Sided Foam Mounting Tape
4. BEST REMOVABLE: Scotch Removable Double-Sided Tape Dispensered Roll
5. BEST FOR CARPET: XFasten Double-Sided Tape 
6. BEST FOR PAINTED WALLS: Scotch-Mount Indoor Double-Sided Mounting Tape
7. BEST FOR CRAFTS: AJ Sign World 164-Foot Premium Double-Sided Adhesive
   

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

Double-sided tape can work in a variety of scenarios if the right option is used. The ones listed here were selected for their quality and price to help shoppers find the best one for their projects.

Best Overall

Gorilla Tough & Clear Double-Sided Mounting Tape

See It

What We Like

• Suitable for use both indoors and outdoors
• Easily bonds to a wide variety of materials
• Ideal for use on glass without creating tape marks

What We Don’t Like

• Removing the backing can be quite tricky

Products Specs

• Length: 60 or 150 inches long by 1 inch wide; 48 inches long by 2 inches wide
• Color: Clear
• Features: Weatherproof, 12- to 37.5-pound hold (depending on tape length)

Gorilla’s double-sided tape is great for projects where traditional fasteners won’t work. The tape works on a variety of surfaces, including stone, concrete, glass, metal, bricks, tile, plastic, and wood. However, because it’s a permanent tape and features a strong adhesive, it’s not recommended for delicate surfaces such as painted drywall.

This mounting tape holds 1 pound per 4 inches of tape. It’s good for both indoor and outdoor applications and it won’t yellow over time. The tape is moisture- and heat-resistant up to 194 degrees Fahrenheit.

Gorilla tape offers a wide range of mounting, repairing, and bonding applications. For those who need a permanent tape that mounts in an instant with a long-lasting, weatherproof bond, Gorilla’s product is a solid choice.

Get the Gorilla double-sided tape at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

Phinus Clear Waterproof Double-Sided Mounting Tape

See It

What We Like

• Suitable for a variety of surfaces
• Waterproof, weatherproof, and multipurpose
• Nonresidue adhesive formula

What We Don’t Like

• Isn’t suitable for use on delicate surfaces

Products Specs

• Length: 10 feet long by 0.75 inches wide
• Color: Clear
• Features: Nonresidue, weatherproof

A budget-friendly option, this double-sided tape by Phinus works best on smooth surfaces, such as glass, metal, plastic, ceramic tile, and marble. Because it has a strong acrylic adhesive base, it’s not suitable for delicate surfaces such as wallpaper, painted surfaces, or broken walls.

The tape is flexible and leaves no residue when removed from proper surfaces. It has a cold/heat resistance of -4 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and is resistant to moisture and solvents, making it useful outdoors as well as inside the home.

Get the Phinus double-sided tape at Amazon (2-pack).

Best Heavy Duty

HitLights Double Sided Tape

See It

What We Like

• Provides flexibility on more difficult surfaces
• Ideal for installing LED strips on multiple surfaces
• Provides an excellent permanent bond

What We Don’t Like

• Tape is difficult to remove once applied

Products Specs

• Length: 32 feet or 100 feet long by 0.39 inches wide
• Color: Black
• Features: Foam core

This industrial-strength, high-bond acrylic foam tape is suitable for most applications, including outdoor use. It works on a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, glass, and plastics.

HitLights is a heavy-duty double-sided tape that grabs a firm hold immediately. The bond created by this permanent tape actually strengthens over time, and the product truly shines in cases where waterproof adhesion is required.

Get the Hitlights double-sided tape at Amazon or Hitlights.

Best Removable

Scotch Removable Double-Sided Tape Dispensered Roll

See It

What We Like

• Ideal for small projects like scrapbooking
• Tape comes in the included dispenser
• Gentle enough to not damage delicate surfaces

What We Don’t Like

• Removability sacrifices adhesive strength

Products Specs

• Length: Various, including 200 inches long by 0.75 inches wide, 250 inches long by 1 inch wide, 300 inches long by 3 inches wide, and 450 inches long by 1 inch wide
• Color: Clear
• Features: Removable, dispenser included

This removable tape features a unique adhesive that holds paper securely but is easy to reposition or remove if needed or desired. This ability makes Scotch’s tape a terrific option to use in small projects, such as photo albums and scrapbooks. (The tape is acid-free and archival, so it will not yellow or damage either photographs or papers.)

For light-duty mounting needs, this double-sided tape is a fine option, not least because it comes in an easy-to-use tape dispenser that allows the tape to glide off the roll smoothly.

Get the Scotch removable double-sided tape at Amazon, Target (3-pack), Staples, or Office Depot.

Best for Carpet

XFasten Double Sided Carpet Tape

See It

What We Like

• Can easily stick to most surfaces
• Sticky enough to hold most rugs in place
• Resistance to heat, moisture, and UV light

What We Don’t Like

• Unless installed carefully, rugs may still curl up in the corners

Products Specs

• Length: Various, including 15 yards long by 3 inches wide, 20 yards long by 2 inches wide, 20 yards long by 4 inches wide, and 30 yards long by 2 inches wide
• Color: White
• Features: UV-, heat-, and moisture-resistant

XFasten’s durable carpet tape is a top solution for keeping area rugs and runners firmly in place. If the rug may need to be moved later, no worries—the tape can be removed easily by hand without leaving a sticky residue behind.

Surfaces must be dry and free of debris before application, but the tape is safe for use on hardwood, vinyl, and tile, as well as on carpeting of all types.

Get the XFasten double-sided tape at Amazon or XFasten.

Best for Painted Walls

Scotch-Mount Indoor Double-Sided Mounting Tape

See It

What We Like

• Suitable for most common uses around the home
• Comfortably tackles most DIY projects
• Thick and pliable tape

What We Don’t Like

• Mounting heavier objects may start to fail over time
• Removing the tape may inadvertently peel some paint off the wall

Products Specs

• Length: Various, including 55 inches long by 1 inch wide, 125 inches long by 1 inch wide, and 350 inches long by 0.75 inches wide
• Color: White
• Features: Industrial-strength adhesive holds up to 15 pounds

Not all double-sided tapes like to adhere to painted surfaces, but Scotch’s foam mounting tape delivers a strong, permanent bond in 30 seconds flat and is able to hold 1 pound per 5.5 inches of tape up to a maximum of 15 pounds when using 80 inches of tape.

This product is ideal for mounting pictures and decorations, not least because it can be used on most types of walls, including ceramic tile and wood surfaces that are clean, dry, and smooth. However, this tape is not recommended for use on wallpaper or delicate surfaces. For the best results, apply when the temperature is between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Get the Scotch-Mount double-sided tape at Amazon (125 inches), Ace Hardware (350 inches), The Home Depot (55 inches), or Lowe’s (350 inches). 

Best for Crafts

AJ Sign World 164-Foot Premium Double-Sided Adhesive

See It

What We Like

• Relatively affordable price point
• Tape is very thin and easy to tear
• Backing is easy to remove

What We Don’t Like

• Adhesive is quite strong and doesn’t remove easily

Products Specs

• Length: 164 feet long by 0.5 or 1 inch wide
• Color: Clear
• Features: Ultrathin, tearable by hand

AJ Sign World’s acid-free tissue tape excels in all types of arts and crafts applications. It’s easy to tear by hand—no scissors required—and it’s transparent, which makes the tape more versatile. This 1-inch wide tape is only suited for use on smooth surfaces. Note also that this is a permanent tape. Once it’s on, it’s on for good.

Those who are looking for a thinner version of this AJ Sign World tape may want to consider the 0.5-inch-wide version.

Get the AJ Sign World double-sided tape at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Double-Sided Tapes

To build our top picks list, we researched all the top double-sided tape brands available across several categories. Our recommendations cover a range of specific uses for the best double-sided tapes, each offering unique qualities to suit a household task or project.

Our top picks are available in a variety of colors and lengths. We made sure to include a varied selection of adhesive strengths, from options that can be easily removed and repositioned to others capable of holding up to 15 pounds of weight. Our list also includes a range of both thick and thin tapes, which are better suited to different tasks.

What to Look for When Choosing Double-Sided Tape 

Double-sided tape is a versatile, economical alternative to glue. It has pressure-sensitive adhesive exposed on both sides of the tape which allows two items to be bonded together. The adhesive lies on top of a carrier material, which can range from film as thin as a fraction of a millimeter up to a thick foam several millimeters thick.

Unlike single-side tape, double-sided tape creates an invisible bond between two objects. Moreover, there’s little time required for the bond to form—simply peel and stick. The tape is often used to hang signs or temporary displays, attach foam to wall panels or flooring underlayment to floors, secure and hold carpets in place for major events or trade shows, and much more. The type of double-sided tape required depends on the application.

When shopping for double-sided tape, consider the tape type, adhesive level, thickness, width, application setting, and other factors. Below are some common characteristics to take into account when picking the right double-sided tape for a particular project.

Type

There are several types of double-sided tape with various carrier materials, each serving a specific purpose. Double-sided tape types fall into one of the below categories:

• Tissue tape is the most common type used for light bonding tasks. It’s mostly used for stationery, art, crafting projects, office, and general applications. Double-sided tissue tape is easy to tear, and is thin enough that it can adhere to irregular surfaces. It’s also inexpensive and a good alternative to glue.
• Acrylic tape is primarily used in industrial environments. It’s stronger than tissue tape and is weather-resistant, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Acrylic double-sided tape should only be used when permanent bonding is needed.
• Polyethylene tape, also known as foam double-sided tape, provides thick cushioning and insulation. Double-sided polyethylene tape is well-suited for uneven surfaces.
• Floor tape is used on floor surfaces, like carpet, to hold items like area rugs or runners in place. They have medium adhesion, which allows for removal without residue.
• Double-sided tape has either acrylic or rubber adhesives. Acrylic adhesives are stronger but more expensive and rubber adhesives are generally cheaper but less suited for long-term applications. Acrylic adhesive is also more heat- and light-resistant than rubber.

Thickness and Width 

Double-sided tape has either thick or thin bonding systems. Tapes with thick bonding systems adhere well to unusual, non-uniform, or highly patterned and textured surfaces. This type of tape usually has a foam carrier layer. Thin bonding systems are significantly thinner. Sometimes the carrier layer is so thin that they are pretty much an adhesive on top of a silicone liner. These tapes are best suited for light adhesion applications.

Width varies quite a bit with double-sided tape. Rolls are available in widths less than 1/4-inch to several inches wide. Each type of tape will have several width options to suit specific projects.

Bonding Surfaces 

The right double-sided tape for a project depends on the surface of the two objects that the user wants to stick together. Surface energy is the degree of attraction or repulsion force a material exerts on another material. Double-sided tape works best on surfaces with a high surface energy, like glass, glazed tile, and bare metals. The surface energy of plastic can vary quite a bit, but in general, it’s best to use a stronger tape. Then there’s silicone, which has such low surface energy that conventional adhesives won’t stick to it. Silicone needs a very tacky adhesive, or one specially formulated to adhere to it.

For flat and smooth surfaces like glass, aluminum, and PVC, thinner tape works well. For rougher surfaces like wood, cement, brick, and stucco, thicker tapes work best. Painted or coated surfaces need thicker, stronger tape as well.

Environment

The environment plays an important role in the adhesion of double-sided tape. Is the tape for indoor or outdoor use? Some tapes are not designed to hold up in outdoor environments.

For outdoor tapes, the weather impacts adhesion quality. The cooler the temperatures, the weaker the resulting bond will be. But high heat isn’t good for adhesion either—it can cause the adhesive to melt and loosen the bond.

Dust, grease, or moisture can also compromise the bond between two surfaces. Cleaning the surface with rubbing alcohol and making sure it’s completely dry before application will guarantee a stronger bond.

Object Weight

Double-sided tapes are rated by the maximum load they can hold. In general, thicker tapes hold more weight. Additionally, tapes with acrylic-based glue will hold more weight. However, the strength of the bond depends on the surface and weight of the object.

The load capacity is determined by the tape’s adhesive viscosity. Adhesive viscosity is similar to liquid viscosity— if it flows easily, it has low viscosity; if it does not, it has high viscosity. However, the viscosity rating for double-sided tape basically determines how well it binds to uneven surfaces. For rough surfaces, a viscous tape is preferable because it will spread into all the nooks and crannies of the uneven surface. Smooth surfaces do not need tape that is as viscous.

In some tapes, viscosity increases as the tape cures on the surface, strengthening the bond.

Pick a tape that best matches the surface energy of the items and consider the maximum load rate.

Longevity

Double-sided tape is either removable or permanent. The removable variety is meant for temporary use and is easily removed. Permanent tapes are used mostly in industrial manufacturing, but strong tapes are also available for home use. These tapes are typically used in lieu of glue or nails to permanently hold two objects together.

The longevity of the bond depends on how strong the adhesive is, as well as the environment. In climate-controlled environments, most double-sided tapes will hold a bond until the user removes it. In outdoor environments, the bond is subjected to heat, cold, and moisture, which will eventually cause the bond to deteriorate.

Removal

There may come a time when it’s necessary to remove double-sided tape. Thankfully, for most of them, a little heat will cause the adhesive to melt and break the bond. A blow dryer or a heat gun can be used to warm the surface and slightly melt the adhesive. Sometimes the tape will release from one side but hold fast to the other. In that case, it may be necessary to apply more heat to break the bond.

If heat does not remove the adhesive, try commercial residue cleaners. These products work by dissolving the sticky adhesive on the tape, making it easier to remove. Pour some of it on the tape and let it soak in for a few minutes, then scrape it off.

FAQs

Now that you have read through the characteristics of double-sided tape, you may still have a few questions. Read on to see some of the commonly asked questions about double-sided tape.

Q. How do you prepare a surface for tape application?

The surface must be free from dust, dirt, and oil, and be completely dry before application. Use rubbing alcohol to wash away any residue and dry with a tack cloth before applying the tape.

Q. What is the ideal temperature for applying double-sided tape?

The ideal temperature for both the surface and the tape is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, or 18 degrees Celsius.

Q. What is the strongest double-sided tape?

VHB tape, such as the Hitlights double-sided tape, is the strongest double-sided tape available for consumers.

Q. Can double-sided tape be removed?

Yes. Typically applying heat to the surface will cause the adhesive to melt and release the bond.

The post The Best Double-Sided Tapes appeared first on Bob Vila.

If you’ve ever used a hose around the garden, you may know the struggle of wrangling it when you’re done with a given task. Although many garden hose storage options seek to simplify putting away a garden hose, few make it as easy as a retractable hose reel. There are a number of retractable hose reels on the market, and we tested eight top models for functionality, durability, installation ease, value, and curb appeal.

How does a retractable hose reel work? A round housing unit holds a garden hose and a reel powered by a large spring. As you extend the hose from the unit, a spring attached to the reel begins to wind and tighten. When you’re finished using the hose and want to store it, simply tug the hose to release a locking mechanism and engage the spring-loaded reel, which automatically winds up the hose in about 20 seconds. 

Our top pick was the 130-foot retractable option from Giraffe Tools thanks to its lockable hose and 180-degree swivel. Find out how each product fared in our hands-on testing and which ones are our top picks for the best retractable garden hose reels in various categories.

1. BEST OVERALL: Giraffe Tools 130-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel
2. RUNNER-UP: Aquazilla 100-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel 
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Eneacro 100-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel 
4. UPGRADE PICK: Macnaught 60-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel
5. BEST FOR SMALL YARDS: Gardena 50-Foot Wall-Mounted Hose Reel
6. BEST FOR MEDIUM YARDS: Giraffe Tools 90-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel
7. BEST FOR LARGE YARDS: Giraffe Tools 155-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel
8. BEST SPIKE-MOUNTED: Gardena 66-Foot Retractable Hose Reel on Metal Spike 

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

These top picks represent some of the best retractable garden hose reels on the market today. They are easy to operate, with proven designs that will quickly retract a hose without tangling. We’ve included a selection of reels to accommodate various hose lengths, and we extensively tested each model for functionality and durability.

Best Overall

Giraffe Tools 130-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

See It

What We Like

• 130-foot hose locks at any length, making it ideal for all yard sizes
• Auto-rewind system retracts the hose without any kinking or tangling
• Hose reel features a 180-degree swivel and is removable for storage

What We Don’t Like

• Loose rubber gaskets inside the hose’s couplings fell out upon unboxing

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 5/5; Functionality 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs

• Length: 130 feet
• Size: ½-inch diameter
• Nozzle: Adjustable with 9 spray patterns

With its ample length and durable construction, this retractable garden hose reel from Giraffe Tools is a quality choice for just about any yard. It comes equipped with a 130-foot hose that locks at any length, allowing it to reach even the far corners of a lawn. The hose itself is made of an abrasion-resistant hybrid material that can handle pressures of up to 600 pounds per square inch (PSI)—nearly twice what most hoses can handle—without bursting. This is a key feature, given that the hoses in retractable reels generally aren’t replaceable. 

The Giraffe Tools retractable hose reel came with everything we needed to mount the bracket to our wooden post, and the process was simple, taking less than 10 minutes. The handy quick-release system made it easy to set the reel in the bracket and remove it for portability or storage. The hose pulled out smoothly, requiring little effort on our part. To retract the hose, we gave it a gentle tug, and the auto-rewind system kicked in, rolling it up without any kinking or tangling. 

We also appreciated the hose’s high-quality spray nozzle, which features nine unique spray patterns. We repeatedly dropped the hose on our concrete patio to test for durability, and there was no damage to the nozzle or couplings. The only malfunction we encountered was minor: The rubber gaskets in the hose’s couplings were loose, falling out as we unboxed the reel. It was easy to put them back in place, but potential buyers will want to keep this in mind.

Get the Giraffe Tools 130-foot retractable garden hose reel at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Runner-up

Aquazilla 100-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Easy-to-install mounting bracket; hose reel locks in place via a metal pin
• 100-foot hose length is ideal for yards and gardens of all sizes
• Durable 9-pattern spray nozzle is suitable for various applications

What We Don’t Like

• Retraction requires the gentlest of pulls; required several attempts after each use

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 5/5; Functionality 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Length: 100 feet
• Size: ⅝-inch diameter
• Nozzle: Pistol grip with 9 spray patterns

The Aquazilla retractable water hose reel was on par with our top pick, earning it the Runner-Up award. The hose features a ⅝-inch diameter and a 100-foot length, perfect for extended reach through the yard. The mounting bracket has a 180-degree swivel, and the hose locks at any length. 

Upon unboxing the Aquazilla retractable garden hose, we were impressed with the attractiveness of the design. A handle at the top of the reel made it easy for us to carry and then install the product. It took us a mere 5 minutes to install the mounting bracket on our wooden post; the reel hooked to the bracket via a removable metal pin. 

During testing, we could pull the hose smoothly from the reel, and it locked into place the second we stopped pulling. Our only issue was that retracting the hose required only the gentlest tug, which we never could seem to achieve on the first try. However, once the hose did retract, the hose guide prevented any kinking. The heavy-duty, pistol-grip spray nozzle resisted any cracking when we dropped it on our concrete patio. We also found the nozzle’s nine different spray patterns useful for many applications, including rinsing off our patio and watering flowers.

Get the Aquazilla retractable garden hose reel at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Eneacro 100-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Reasonably priced compared with retractable hose reels of a similar size
• Easiest to pull the hose of all the models we tested
• 100-foot hose length is suitable for yards and gardens of all sizes

What We Don’t Like

• Plastic housing unit appears to be of lower quality than other top picks

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 3/5; Functionality 5/5; Durability 3/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs

• Length: 100 feet
• Size: ½-inch diameter 
• Nozzle: Pistol grip with 9 spray patterns

This retractable garden hose reel from Eneacro offers several good features at a reasonable price. It automatically locks at any length and retracts slowly using an internal breaking mechanism. The hose’s 100-foot length makes it suitable for yards and gardens of all sizes. The reel includes a side mount and can rotate 180 degrees to reach all parts of a yard, and users can remove the reel from the bracket for easy winter storage. 

Upon unboxing, it was apparent why this garden hose reel was cheaper than other products on our list. The plastic housing unit was thinner, and the hose looked to be of lower quality. However, looks can be deceiving, as we were pleasantly surprised by this hose reel’s performance. 

We installed the mounting bracket by drilling four pilot holes and then screwing the bracket in place. We then attached the reel and began using the hose. This hose was the easiest to pull among all of our top picks. There was no resistance, and drawing out the entire hose length took zero force. When we had finished using it, the hose retracted smoothly. The hose also features a handy pistol-grip nozzle with nine spray patterns. While this model’s housing unit appears to be a lower quality than that of the other products, it’s still an ideal option for users who value ease of use—and at a lower price.

Get the Eneacro retractable garden hose reel at Amazon.

Upgrade Pick

Macnaught 60-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Features durable construction and an attractive modern design
• Hybrid polymer hose is thick, flexible, and resistant to kinking
• Simple installation and easy to remove from the mount for portability or storage

What We Don’t Like

• Inconsistent retraction; the hose sometimes rewinds to one side rather than evenly throughout the reel
• Doesn’t include a spray nozzle or screws for the mounting bracket

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 5/5; Functionality 3/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs

• Length: 60 feet
• Size: ½-inch diameter 
• Nozzle: Not included

For shoppers who want to invest in a higher-priced retractable hose reel, it’s best to choose a sturdy model designed for ease of use like this Macnaught hose reel that features heavy-duty construction and a high-quality hose. Although the 60-foot hose has a smaller ½-inch diameter, it’s made from a hybrid polymer material that doesn’t hold a coiled shape, making it easier to extend and less likely to kink. 

When we unboxed the hose reel, we were impressed with the material quality. The hose felt flexible but thick—definitely a grade above the other options. The housing unit featured durable plastic and a modern design. It included a metal bracket for installation; unfortunately, though, no screws were included. Luckily, we had some screws on hand and were able to mount the bracket to our post in just a few minutes.

Similar to other retractable garden hose reels, this model locks automatically and retracts with a gentle pull. However, the retraction was inconsistent during our testing. Sometimes the garden hose would retract in an even pattern, while other times it would all go to one side. In those instances, we’d have to unwind the hose and retract it again to straighten it out. An additional downside to this model is that it didn’t include a spray nozzle.

Get the Macnaught retractable garden hose reel at Amazon. 

Best for Small Yards

Gardena 50-Foot Wall-Mounted Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Includes hose guide for easy, even retraction within the reel
• Reel attaches to the mounting bracket via a removable metal pin
• Hose is easy to pull out, locks in place, and smoothly retracts

What We Don’t Like

• Hose features plastic couplings with snap-on connections, which may be less desirable 

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 4/5; Functionality 4/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs

• Length: 50 feet
• Size: Unspecified
• Nozzle: Fire hose

The shorter 50-foot hose on this Gardena model is ideal for keeping flower beds and landscaping in smaller yards well irrigated. Similar to other hose reels, it mounts to a wall and swivels 180 degrees to access different parts of the yard. A bracket on the mount pairs with a standard padlock (not included) to prevent theft. Users can easily remove the reel from the mount for winter storage. 

We installed the bracket to our wooden post with four screws and then set the reel on top, locking it in with a metal pin. We then tested the hose, pulling it out and retracting it more than a dozen times. The hose extended and retracted smoothly and efficiently each time. This product includes a handy hose guide for installation on the corner of a house or building to prevent snags.

Rather than metal couplings like the other hose reels we tested, this product has plastic couplings with snap-on connections. The water source hook-up, however, has a standard threaded connection. Additionally, this hose reel has a basic fire-hose nozzle, which wasn’t our favorite, but it works well for watering plants.

Get the Gardena 50-foot retractable garden hose reel at Amazon.

Best for Medium Yards

Giraffe Tools 90-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Attractive and high-quality housing unit made from reinforced propylene plastic
• Kink-proof hose retracts via a guide that keeps it tidy inside the housing unit
• 90-foot hose length and versatile spray nozzle are ideal for many applications

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t pull as smoothly as other tested products from this brand; requires force

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 5/5; Functionality 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs 

• Length: 90 feet
• Size: ⅝-inch diameter
• Nozzle: Pistol grip with 9 spray patterns

The Giraffe Tools 90-foot retractable garden hose reel is an attractive option for midsize yards and gardens. The housing unit is durable, consisting of reinforced propylene plastic that won’t fade in the sun. The reel features a self-layering system that guides the hose into the unit smoothly and without any kinking. 

This model included everything we needed to mount it, including a propylene bracket and four screws with plastic anchors. After mounting, all we had to do was set the reel in place. We started our functionality testing by pulling the length of the hose out of the reel multiple times. We immediately noticed that this model required much more force to pull than the other Giraffe Tools models we tested.

The retraction on this hose worked as expected, rewinding smoothly and without kinks. We repeatedly dropped the nine-setting spray nozzle on the concrete patio to mimic the regular wear and tear the hose might experience. The couplings never warped, and the nozzle didn’t crack or show any signs of damage. Overall, this is a high-quality retractable garden hose reel, but it requires some upper body strength to extend the entire length of the hose.

Get the Giraffe Tools 90-foot retractable garden hose reel at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best for Large Yards

Giraffe Tools 155-Foot Retractable Garden Hose Reel

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What We Like

• Extra-long hose length of 155 feet is ideal for large yards, gardens, and barns
• Durable, heavy-duty housing is made from reinforced and fade-resistant propylene
• Versatile spray nozzle with 9 spray patterns meets multiple needs

What We Don’t Like

• Long hose length makes reel heavier to carry and install
• Wider mounting bracket may limit installation options

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Curb Appeal 5/5; Functionality 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs

• Length: 155 feet
• Size: ½-inch diameter 
• Nozzle: Pistol grip with 9 spray patterns

With a whopping 155 feet of hose length, this Giraffe Tools option is one of the longest retractable garden hose reels on the market, making it ideal for yards that extend far from the spigot. The reel functions similarly to other retractable hose reels, locking automatically at any length and retracting with a simple tug. 

The mounting bracket was wider than others on our list, requiring a minimum of a 4-inch by 6-inch post on which to mount it. Alternatively, users can mount it directly to the side of a house or building. We installed the bracket on our wooden post, which took only a few minutes. We then set the reel in place and began using the hose. The reel weighs about 40 pounds, making it slightly more challenging to install.

We expected such a long hose to be more difficult to pull, but it wasn’t. It pulled smoothly from the reel, locking in place each time we stopped. It also retracted with a gentle tug, never kinking. The durable sprayer nozzle featured the same nine-setting pistol grip as on all the Giraffe Tools models we tested. We subjected the nozzle to many drops on our concrete patio, and it held up well. And we found the multiple sprayer settings useful for a variety of applications.

Get the Giraffe Tools 155-foot retractable garden hose reel at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Spike Mounted

Gardena 66-Foot Retractable Hose Reel on Metal Spike

See It

What We Like

• Easy-to-install metal ground spike eliminates the need for wall mounting
• Hose pulls out smoothly and retracts with a gentle tug
• 66-foot length suits small to medium yards and gardens

What We Don’t Like

• Includes a basic adjustable nozzle instead of a higher-quality spray nozzle
• Expensive for the quality and size of the hose reel

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Curb Appeal 4/5; Functionality 5/5; Durability 3/5; Value 3.5/5 

Product Specs 

• Length: 66 feet
• Size: Unspecified
• Nozzle: Fire hose

Users who can’t or don’t want to wall-mount a hose reel can still enjoy the benefits of a retractable garden hose with the spike-mounted Gardena 66-foot hose reel. The housing unit is constructed with frostproof and UV-resistant material and features RollControl technology for safe retraction.

This hose reel came with everything we needed to install it. We mounted the stake by finding a suitable, utility-free area in our yard and then used the included metal rod to twist the stake into place. We couldn’t get the stake all the way into the ground, but we pushed it deep enough to support the hose reel. We then assembled the reel and placed it on the mount. 

The hose didn’t feel quite as durable as the other models we tested, but it extended and retracted smoothly with no tangling or kinking. The 66-foot length makes it best suited for small to medium yards. This model has a fire-hose adjustable nozzle, which didn’t have the quality of the nozzles on other top picks. However, it still held up to many drops on the concrete patio and worked well for watering plants. 

Get the Gardena 66-foot retractable garden hose reel at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Retractable Garden Hose Reels

• Products tested: 8
• Hours spent testing: 6.5
• Tests performed: 5
• Average price: $180

Before starting our hands-on testing of the best retractable garden hose reels, we researched top consumer needs and considered more than 15 options with high user reviews. Then, we narrowed our list to eight models to test and spent a month installing and using each retractable hose reel.

First, we mounted each hose reel to a wooden post using the included bracket and screws, if applicable. To test for functionality, we extended the full length of the hose and then retracted it at least a dozen times, noting the overall ease or difficulty, the smoothness, and how well it retracted. We also dropped the hose couplings and any included nozzles on our concrete patio multiple times to mimic the natural wear and tear these parts may undergo. Finally, we kept all of our test results in a rubric, and—at the end of the testing period—used these results to rate each product and award it as the top pick in one of the categories.

What to Consider When Choosing a Retractable Garden Hose Reel 

Although knowing the length of the hose is key when you’re purchasing a retractable garden hose reel, there are other important factors to consider, such as the hose diameter, nozzle type, and mounting design. 

Length

“Hose length is definitely a top consideration,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love. “If you want to be able to extend your hose out to water the plants across your lawn without requiring a watering can to make up the difference, then make sure to measure the distance you need.”

Though other types of hose storage solutions may allow you to add length by attaching an additional hose, you won’t be able to add to or replace the hose that comes with a retractable reel. The best way to determine the length you’ll need is to measure from an outdoor spigot to the farthest point in the yard. Hose lengths for retractable garden hose reels typically range from about 50 to 150 feet. 

Mounting and Portability 

A retractable garden hose holder comes with a mounting kit for installation on the side of a house, shed, or even a fence or post. The mounting kit allows the reel to hinge left to right 180 degrees, making it easier to direct the hose toward a flower bed, driveway, or other location. 

Mounting the hose reel is necessary to provide a solid base while pulling the hose for retraction. A hose reel wall mount typically has a removable pin that allows the user to detach the entire device from the mount, which is convenient when storing the hose in a shed or garage for the winter. 

Hose Size

Hose sizes for retractable garden hoses vary from ⅜ of an inch in diameter up to ⅝ of an inch in diameter. A larger-diameter hose can carry more water and therefore produce a higher flow rate than a smaller-diameter hose. With this in mind, a ⅜-inch or ½-inch hose is best suited for watering plants, while a ⅝-inch hose is ideal for uses that demand higher water volume, such as running a sprinkler or washing a car. 

Nozzle Type

Some garden hose reels feature one of two types of nozzle: pistol grip or fire hose. Pistol-grip models fit ergonomically in the hand with a grip and trigger that allow the user to regulate the amount of output. The nozzle has a throttle tip for toggling between eight or nine spray patterns, including a stream, broad fan, and mist. 

Fire-hose nozzles are long and straight. The user can adjust the spray from a high-pressure stream to a broad fan by twisting the nozzle. Though a fire-hose nozzle doesn’t offer the same variety of spray patterns as a pistol-grip nozzle, it is usually made from all-metal parts and is typically more durable. 

Most nozzle types use standard fittings, so you can easily replace one later with an aftermarket nozzle, if necessary.

The Advantages of Owning a Retractable Garden Hose Reel

Although retractable reels are one of the more expensive storage solutions for garden hoses, there are several good reasons to invest in one. A retractable hose reel makes it easy to collect and store a garden hose that is up to 155 feet in length, eliminating the need to wrangle a hose manually. Garden hose reels also feature wall mounts, which can inconspicuously attach to a house or shed, unlike a hose reel cart that requires indoor storage. These reels detach easily from their mounts and double as a storage container for the hose during winter months. A retractable garden hose reel can:

• Eliminate the need to manually wind up a hose
• Store the hose in an out-of-the-way place
• Allow for convenient transport of the hose for winter storage

“With longer hoses, it’s definitely helpful to have a crank feature or a retractable design to bring the hose back into place. If you don’t need a long hose and/or don’t need to take it out very far, a retractable hose may be an unnecessary expense,” says Yamaguchi. With that in mind, if you have a small yard with low water needs, a quality expandable hose may be sufficient.

FAQs

If you’re wondering how to use your new retractable garden hose reel or want to know what to do if the hose becomes damaged, read on for answers to these frequently asked questions. 

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton has over 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on GOBankingRates, Realtor.com, Yahoo!, Cabin Life, and more. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days/weeks to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.

The post The Best Retractable Garden Hose Reels to Keep Hoses Contained, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

A wood chipper cuts twigs, limbs, branches, and other solid yard material into small pieces. These chips may provide mulch for a garden, kindling for a fire pit, or even the raw material for pressed wood to make furniture or complete other carpentry projects.

The best wood chipper for home usemust accommodate the twigs and branches you feed into it and suit your power requirements. While thebest electric wood chipperis quieter and runs on a home power supply, gas and power take-off (PTO) models are much more powerful, cutting through more material at a faster pace.

We interviewed a landscaping expert to get his insight on what specifically to look for. Then we shopped around to identify electric and gas-powered wood chippers that our readers could count on for their outdoor cleanup projects. Then we spent more than 8 hours assembling and testing the following picks in a huge brush pile in order to compare wood chippers.

Through this testing, we selected the Earthquake K33 Chipper Shredder as our best overall wood chipper for its ability to shred and chip branches of 3 inches in diameter, 301 cubic centimeter (cc) 4-cycle gas engine, low shredder hopper, and dock-and-lock bagging system.

Continue reading for insight on our shopping considerations and check out ourwood chipper reviews to see how each of these models performed in our tests—and why one of them may be the best wood chipper for your project.

1. BEST OVERALL: Earthquake K33 Chipper Shredder
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Sun Joe CJ601E Electric Wood Chipper
3. UPGRADE PICK: DK2 OPC503 3-Inch Disk Chipper Shredder
4. BEST FOR COMPOSTING: Earthwise Electric 15-Amp Corded Chipper Shredder
5. BEST WITH LEAF VACUUM: Troy-Bilt CSV060B Chipper Shredder Vacuum
6. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Champion Power Equipment 3-Inch Chipper Shredder
7. ALSO CONSIDER: Predator 6.5 HP 212cc Chipper Shredder

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

We tested some of the top-rated wood chippersin our test facility brush pile. Read on to learn how each of these machines performed in our tests and why we consider them to be among the best wood chippers for home use.

Best Overall

Earthquake K33 Chipper Shredder

See It

What We Like

• Starts easily and handles tough material without stalling
• Chips branches up to 3 inches in diameter
• Easy loading of leaves and small debris
• Includes a dock-and-lock bagging system
• Large 11-inch airless wheels

What We Don’t Like

• Pricey compared to other options
• The included bottle of oil isn’t enough

Product Specs 

• Engine: 301cc gas engine
• Branch capacity: 3 inches
• Weight: 140 pounds

The best all-around wood chipper we tested was durably built, easy to operate, and tackled the toughest branches without bogging down. It also featured a compact design that made it easy to transport and store. A 301cc gas engine and dual-knife chipper disc allow the Earthquake K33 chipper shredder to tackle branches up to 3 inches in diameter. Four hammer assemblies (two J-hammers and two tri-hammers) on the shredder make quick work of leaves, pine cones, smaller sticks, and other yard waste.

The big, powerful engine is the key to this chipper’s success. It started on the first pull and produced more than 13 foot-pounds of torque, while the other gas models in the test group averaged just over 11 foot-pounds. With that kind of power, the Earthquake K33 did an outstanding job chipping the thickest branches that bogged down or stalled out the other chippers.

When it came to shredding, we liked that the hopper opening was just 35 inches high, whereas some of the others were over 40 inches high. The lower height made it easier to load, especially when we were dumping large quantities of debris from a container. To offset the low height and still allow for leverage to make transport easy, the handlebar attaches at an angle so that it is higher than the rim of the hopper.

The debris bag worked great, too. Rather than relying on a drawstring as most models did, this one uses a locking bracket with its own handle. A support rod holds the bag open so that it fills all the way, with no need to reposition or shake down the material. When it’s full, the handle rotates off the mounting bracket for transport, and a heavy-duty zipper on the opposite end facilitates fast disposal.

We felt that the performance and build quality warranted the premium price for this wood chipper. Although it’s not the cheapest model available, the Earthquake K33 would make a smart pick for heavier use on larger properties.

Get the Earthquake wood chipper at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Mowers at Jacks.

Best Bang for the Buck

Sun Joe CJ601E Electric Wood Chipper

See It

What We Like

• Shreds branches up to 1.5 inches thick
• Strong 14A electric motor
• Upright configuration saves space in storage

What We Don’t Like

• Not made for shredding leaves or soft, pliable stems
• Operates more slowly than other electric chippers

Product Specs 

• Engine: 14 amp (A) corded electric
• Branch capacity: 1.5 inches
• Weight: 25.4 pounds

For those who want to save money when cleaning up a small yard, Sun Joe’s 14A electric wood chipper could be considered thebest budget wood chipperaround. This affordable small wood chipper uses an electric motor that runs at speeds up to 4,300 revolutions per minute (rpm). As a light-duty chipper, it won’t clear fallen trees or do heavy landscaping work, but it cuts sticks and limbs up to 1.5 inches thick and produces usable mulch for the garden or yard. When the job is done, its compact, upright design won’t take up a lot of room.

This electric chipper has the lowest average price of all the models we tested, making it a smart choice for budget shoppers with limited storage space. Setup and start-up took about 15 minutes, and all tools were included in the box. We also noticed right away that this chipper was even lighter than the other electric models, weighing in at just over 25 pounds. The stated reduction ratio is 16:1 (to reduce a volume equal to 16 bags of debris down to one).

After a half hour of grinding branches, we noted that this Sun Joe model operates somewhat slower than other electric chippers and produces larger particles. In 30 minutes of chipping a mix of green and woody branches, it produced approximately 15 gallons (three 5-gallon buckets full) of chips. The motor strained a few times but never jammed, so we didn’t get to try out the jam-clearing function in a real-world scenario. The compact, upright build; strong performance; and maintenance-free design make this an easy choice for everyday use.

Get the Sun Joe wood chipper at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Upgrade Pick

DK2 OPC503 3-Inch Disk Chipper Shredder

See It

What We Like

• Professional-grade Kohler gasoline engine for durability
• Large hopper capacity and lower height for easier loading
• Air-filled off-road tires and removable ATV towing hitch
• Drop stand and locking wheels

What We Don’t Like

• Horizontal configuration takes up more storage space
• Top discharge configuration can become clogged with fine debris

Product Specs 

• Engine: 7 horsepower (hp) 208cc Kohler Command Pro gas engine
• Branch capacity: 3 inches
• Weight: 187 pounds

The towable DK2 chipper shredder features a 7 hp 208cc Kohler Command Pro engine and dual high-strength steel-carbide cutting blades for reliable performance in tough conditions. Pneumatic off-road tires, a removable ATV towing hitch, and a drop stand make it easy to access worksites on difficult terrain. The wheels lock in place for added safety while chipping. An extra-large hopper and branch auto-feed chute placed at a comfortable height make it easier to load composting materials, yard waste, brush, and branches up to 3 inches in diameter.

After about a half hour of easy assembly, we fueled up the DK2 chipper shredder and moved it in place for testing. The large air-filled tires and hand-truck configuration made it the easiest gas-powered model to move manually; the added convenience of the removable tow bar was icing on the cake. Locking the wheels in place for operation required removal of the wheel pins from the end of the axle, sliding the wheels outward on the axle, and reinstalling the pins through the wheels and axle. In practice, this was only slightly awkward and less complicated than it may sound. The machine started on the first pull and ran smoothly throughout the test.

We operated the chipper for a half hour, feeding it a combination of green and dried hardwood branches, sunflower stalks, cornstalks, brush, and dried leaves. We really liked the wide mouth and comfortable height of the chute at just 36 inches high. It made it super easy to load leaves and other fine-textured materials. Even the largest, driest branches presented no problem. However, we did note that some of the fine material fed through the hopper accumulated at the base of the discharge chute. It did not clog the flow, but we recommend occasionally checking for excessive buildup during the course of a workday. Overall, this was the most pleasurable chipper shredder we tested. It was very easy to maneuver, powerful, and relatively quiet compared to competitors.

Get the DK2 wood chipper at Tractor Supply Co. or The Home Depot. 

Best for Composting

Earthwise Electric 15-Amp Corded Chipper Shredder

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What We Like

• Powerful exhaust-free operation
• Includes a 1.2-bushel collection bin
• Processes large branches
• Lightweight yet durable construction

What We Don’t Like

• Limited working range without extension cord
• Shallow plastic hopper is somewhat flimsy

Product Specs 

• Engine: 15A corded electric motor
• Branch capacity: 1.75 inches
• Weight: 30 pounds

When processing organic waste for composting, a clean, quiet electric chipper makes sense. The Earthwise 15A electric chipper grinds sticks and branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter and other yard and garden waste into smaller, more uniform particles for fast, efficient composting. It requires no gas or oil and virtually no maintenance. The included 1.2-bushel plastic collection bin makes it easy to capture chips, and the slim design with rear wheels makes for easy transport.

The Earthwise electric chipper was the easiest to assemble of all the models we tested, taking only about 10 minutes. However, we didn’t love the lightweight plastic snap-in-place hopper since the tabs lined up with difficulty and the assembled hopper was too easy to knock off while working. On the other hand, we really liked the plastic collection bin that simply slides into place and backs out like a drawer.

Feeding a wide range of such materials as plant stalks and woody branches was a breeze, and the included tamper tool helped us safely feed smaller items. The motor operated quietly, unfazed by even the largest, driest woody material, and the finished chips were quite uniform in appearance. We filled the collection bin within the half-hour testing time frame. The strong electric motor, compact build, and generously sized collection bin make this an easy choice for composting enthusiasts.

Get the Earthwise wood chipper at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best with Leaf Vacuum

Troy-Bilt CSV060B Chipper Shredder Vacuum

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What We Like

• Excellent versatility; chips, vacuums, shreds, and bags
• Gas engine reduces user fatigue
• 24-inch vacuum width
• Onboard vacuum hose reaches into tight spots
• Accepts branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter

What We Don’t Like

• Requires more storage space than other chipper shredders
• Does not work well in natural areas or tall grass

Product Specs 

• Engine: 163cc gasoline engine
• Branch capacity: 1.5 inches
• Weight: 125 pounds

Anyone looking to win “Tidiest Yard in the Neighborhood” will want to look into Troy-Bilt’s chipper-shredder-vacuum combo. With its 24-inch vacuum opening, leaf removal is as simple as walking across the lawn. Need to collect a few leaves blown beneath the shrubs or a pile near the front-door vortex? Just detach the 8-foot-long 7-inch-diameter vacuum hose and it will reach them. If a few sticks fell from the shade tree, simply insert them into the 1.5-inch chipper feed chute.

This machine operates somewhat like a push lawn mower. The deck height is adjustable for optimal leaf pickup. It rolls smoothly on 11-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels. The cast-aluminum impeller is powered by an easy-starting California Air Resources Board (CARB)–compliant 163cc engine. It turns eight bags worth of yard waste into a single bag of chips and collects them in the onboard 2-bushel felt bagger.

This Troy-Bilt model arrived mostly assembled, with the exception of the handle, bagger, and hose. Installing those took about 15 minutes. Then we added oil and gas, adjusted the deck height, and started testing.

We found that the Troy-Bilt exhibited good suction, easily picking up dry or damp leaves, small pine cones, and twigs from the lawn, and the hose feature sucked up matted debris from beneath shrubs. The 1.5-inch chipper feature operated smoothly and efficiently for the most part. We tested it with both green wood and dried hardwood branches, though strongly curved and crooked branches did need to be broken into short pieces or tossed aside in a few cases.

The weight of the engine and deck countered the weight of the debris bagger quite well until the bag was mostly full. Emptying the bagger onto the ground was easy enough, but transferring the chips to a disposal bag was awkward. This machine could really help those who live where summer storms regularly leave debris in the yard or where autumn leaves fall over an extended period of time. It could also boost productivity during spring cleanup.

Get the Troy-Bilt wood chipper at The Home Depot, The BuildClub, or Troy-Bilt.

Best Heavy-Duty

Champion Power Equipment 3-Inch Chipper Shredder

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What We Like

• Powerful 224cc engine and dual-blade chipper
• Extra-large shredder hopper handles debris up to 0.5 inches thick
• Branch feed chute accepts straight limbs up to 3 inches thick
• Hand-truck style makes it easy to maneuver over uneven terrain

What We Don’t Like

• Tall stance makes loading more difficult
• Handle built into the hopper rim with no padding or finger molding

Product Specs 

• Engine: 224cc Champion gasoline engine
• Branch capacity: 3 inches
• Weight: 135.6 pounds

The ruggedly built Champion Power Equipment 3-inch portable chipper shredder proved to be the best heavy-duty wood chipper in our tests. A clean CARB-compliant 224cc Champion gas engine drives the chipper’s steel blades. This chipper grinds the equivalent of 20 bags of yard debris to fit into one bag. The large hopper is suitable for shredding fine debris like twigs, leaves, and other material smaller than 0.5 inches thick, while the branch feed chute accepts limbs up to 3 inches in diameter. The discharge chute features an adjustable angle top and comes with an easy-to-use 2-bushel drawstring collection bag for fast, easy cleanup.

As with the other models we tested, we set aside 30 minutes and a large pile of branches, brush, and leaves to test the Champion chipper shredder. After 45 minutes of easy assembly, we added gas and oil before going to work. The tall height of the hopper rim, which is where the transport handle is located, was a help and a hindrance. Because the wheels are on the same side of the machine as the handle, it easily maneuvers like a hand truck over all kinds of terrain, and the tall height provides welcome leverage. Later on, however, we realized that the 50-inch-tall hopper was less comfortable for loading debris compared to models with lower hoppers.

The engine started on the first pull of the recoil cord. We were impressed by the smooth operation and grinding power provided by the big gas engine. This was the largest gas engine in our test lineup. The automatic feed branch chute fed really fast, even with dry, large-diameter hardwood. The hopper, as noted earlier, was a bit too high for comfort but was wide enough to hold lots of material. The machine never clogged or showed signs of struggle with the workload. We also noted the machine’s small footprint, which makes it ideal for saving space in storage. This is a great choice for making fast work of occasional tough cleanup jobs.

Get the Champion Power Equipment wood chipper at The Home Depot.

Also Consider

Predator 6.5 HP 212cc Chipper Shredder

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What We Like

• Affordable and effective for medium-duty cleanup
• Easy to load with leaves and small debris
• 2-bladed chipper flywheel makes quick work of larger branches
• Includes discharge collection bag

What We Don’t Like

• Less powerful engine
• Can get bogged down with tougher branches

Product Specs 

• Engine: 212cc gas engine
• Branch capacity: 3 inches
• Weight: 120 pounds

No need to overspend on a seldom-used specialty tool. The Predator chipper shredder is value priced and delivers more chipping capability than electric models, along with the freedom of movement that only comes with gas-powered equipment. In terms of its overall build, it mimics our top pick but comes with a smaller 212cc engine and a drawstring debris bagger.

We assembled the Predator wood chipper in about 45 minutes, and other than having difficulty trying to read the tiny lettering used in the instructions, assembly went smoothly. This chipper does not come with engine oil, so be prepared with 2 quarts of 10W-30. Immediately after fueling up the first time, it started on the third pull, but going forward the engine started on either the first or second pull every time.

This chipper comes equipped with air-filled tires. For us, that was a good thing, as they rolled easily across all types of terrain, including wet ground. However, users will need to be cautious to prevent punctures. Another unique feature was the wheel brakes that could be locked for safety while chipping.

This chipper was a bit underpowered for branches thicker than about 2 inches. When we fed it larger material, the engine consistently bogged down, and in three cases stalled out. It was not a great performer compared to the other gas models we tested, but it was several hundred dollars cheaper on average. As a step up from electric chippers, the Predator wood chipper was a lot faster, more powerful, and generally more convenient for working anywhere on the property. Budget-conscious shoppers in need of a light- to medium-duty wood chipper will find good value here.

Get the Predator wood chipper at Harbor Freight.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Wood Chippers

Our testing observations and comparison started with unpacking and assembling the chippers. All of the electric wood chippers came together in about 15 minutes as they were all comparatively lightweight and compact. While basic, disposable tools were included in the packaging; however, using personally owned tools ought to make the job go faster and easier. All of the electric chippers require a heavy-duty 12-gauge extension cord to avoid tripping the circuit breaker during operation.

Assembling each of the gas-powered chippers took 45 minutes to 1 hour and required installation of the hopper, branch chute, safety guards, discharge chute, wheels, and standing brace. These machines all weigh more than 100 pounds, so it’s a good idea to have a helper. Again, the included tools will get the job done, but using ones from a personal tool kit makes the process more comfortable. The packages included engine oil and gasoline that must be added before operation.

After assembly, we transported each of the chippers across the lawn to the worksite. In so doing, we noted that the small plastic wheels on the electric chippers provided the most stability on solid, flat ground. The larger hard wheels on the gas machines worked fine on average lawns but caused some struggles on sloped, uneven surfaces. The towable DK2 chipper, which includes a handle for moving by hand, was the easiest to move on rough ground.

In general, chippers with wheels on the same side of the machine as the handle—what we called a “hand-truck” configuration—were easier to maneuver than those with wheels and handles on opposite sides of the machine, like a wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow configuration requires the user to lift the handle and bear more of the machine’s weight versus the hand-truck configuration, which transfers more weight to the wheels.

Finally, we set up and operated each chipper for 30 minutes. During operational testing, we fed each model a combination of large and small branches, including green wood and dried wood, and dry leaves (when applicable) to observe the full range of functionality. In addition to the machine’s ability to chip, we observed chip consistency, working stability, operator comfort, and noise level from a purely subjective standpoint to help determine our preferences and recommendations.

We also spoke to Kaustubh Deo, president of Blooma Tree Experts, a tree care company based in Seattle, Washington, featuring International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)–certified arborists with over 17 years of experience. He says that once you’ve purchased a chipper, “Don’t forget to follow the maintenance instructions in the guides. Make sure you keep the chipper knives sharp and rotate them.” He also adds this expert tip: “Rental shops that rent out chippers should be able to sharpen chipper knives for you.”

What to Consider When Choosing a Wood Chipper

Before buyers choose a wood chipper for their yard cleanup needs, they’ll want to take a few minutes to educate themselves on the most important shopping considerations for these tools.

Types of Wood Chippers

Wood chippers fall into three main types based on their power source: electric, gas, and PTO.

Electric

Electric wood chippers often look a lot like golf bags. These compact machines run quieter than either gas or PTO chippers, but they often lack the power and capacity needed to deal with material larger than 2 inches in diameter.

For small branches and yard trimmings, an electric wood chipper does the trick. They’re reasonably priced, lightweight, and easy to use. Plug them into a standard outlet, and they’re good to go.

Gas 

The most common residential models, gas wood chippers are larger, louder, and produce gasoline exhaust. Gas-powered wood chippers generally employ 4-cycle engines from 150cc to 250cc and produce 7 to 10 hp. To find the models with the lowest exhaust emissions, look for the CARB-compliant label. CARB adheres to the highest emission standards in the United States.

More powerful than electric options, gas chippers need not sit near an outlet and won’t tether the user to an extension cord. Situated in the middle of the price range for chippers, gas-powered options cost more than electric ones but are not quite as much as PTOs. Gas chippers can typically handle material of more than 3 inches in diameter.

PTO

PTO refers to the drive shaft on the wood chipper, through which it attaches to a splined output shaft on a tractor, mower, or truck. Through this connection, the PTO wood chipper draws energy from the engine of the vehicle. This method of energy supply makes PTO wood chippers more effective than their gas or electric counterparts. They can cut through more material at a faster rate.

The best PTO wood chippersmake an excellent choice for anyone who lives on a large plot of land. They cost more than either electric or gas chippers, and they require a compatible vehicle to work. These machines are much larger and less convenient for average home landscapes. Although professionals will want to findthe best commercial wood chipper, we did not test PTO-driven models.

Bag Capacity

Not all wood chippers use bags or bins to gather the chipper refuse. Those who are looking for one that comes with a bag or bin will want to consider the storage container’s capacity. Larger bags make a great choice if users plan to use the wood chipper for a big cleanup project.

Keep in mind that the larger the bin, the heavier and more cumbersome it will be to empty. If weight is a concern, a model with a smaller bag or bin will require more frequent but easier emptying—a smart choice to avoid the risk of injury that comes with lifting a heavy bag.

Cutting Blades

Wood chippers use one or both of two cutting-blade types to grind up yard waste: fixed blades, also called knives; or hinged blades, sometimes called hammers. The most commonly used material for both blade types is hardened chromium-alloy steel. Steel tends to bend rather than chip and may be resharpened numerous times before it needs to be replaced.

A wood chipper’s ability to cut through material fed into the machine is a key factor. Shoppers will want to think about how they’ll use their wood chipper. An electric wood chipper will be fine for small branches and clippings. These devices usually shred branches up to 2 inches in diameter across the widest point. Those dealing with larger material will want to consider a gas or PTO chipper, which may be able to shred materials up to 4 inches in diameter. Some commercial wood chipper models cut through branches up to 7 inches in diameter, though these cost significantly more than the average residential wood chipper.

Torque

A wood chipper uses a powerful motor to turn a series of cutting and grinding blades with enough force (torque) to cut through solid wood quickly. Torque describes the rotational force, typically measured in foot-pounds, that a motor imparts on an object. In wood chippers, torque forces the blades to cut through any appropriate material pushed into the hopper. Most residential wood chippers get a torque rating between 7 and 15 foot-pounds.

Shredding Chute

Many chippers include two different chutes for feeding material into the machine: a long, narrow branch chute for thick branches; and a wide shredding chute, also known as a hopper. Shaped like a broad funnel, the shredding chute compresses bundles of thin pliable twigs and branches so that they can contact the blades more efficiently. This separate chute shreds less rigid material, such as weeds, leaves, grass, and other soft plant waste, so it can come in handy for common yard work.

While a leaf shredder would tackle this job, a wood chipper with a built-in shredding chute gets the same results in a more cost-effective and space-saving way. However, a wood chipper/leaf shredder combo will cost more than a model without the shredder. But this combo may be considered the ​​best residential wood chipper option.

Reduction Ratio

The reduction ratio of a wood chipper indicates how small the material will be after it has passed through the wood chipper. For example, if a wood chipper has a reduction ratio of 8:1, it will reduce the material down to an eighth of its original size. Another way to think of it is that it can reduce eight bags of yard waste to fit into one bag. The reduction ratio of most wood chippers typically ranges from 8:1 to 20:1.

Chippers need more power and energy to cut materials into smaller pieces. As the engine size increases, so does the price of the chipper. If users don’t need to cut material into tiny pieces, they can save money by choosing a chipper with a lower reduction ratio.

Weight and Mobility

Weight and mobility rank as key considerations in the purchase of a wood chipper, but many shoppers overlook these factors. Thebest small wood chipper for the extent of yard work is typically the ideal purchase. A wood chipper that’s too big or doesn’t have decent wheels can be very difficult to move around the yard, which reduces overall yard cleanup efficiency.

Look for wood chippers that come with sturdy stands and large wheels capable of moving over grass, paving stones, deck boards, sticks, and any other obstacles on the ground. Keep in mind that the heavier a wood chipper, the more difficult it will be to move across uneven ground or up steep inclines. For larger properties with fewer trees, a lightweight wood chipper may be ideal because users can move it around the yard quickly and effectively without significant fatigue.

How to Use a Wood Chipper Safely

There’s a reason wood chippers make frequent appearances in horror films. This incredibly dangerous yard tool should only be operated by an experienced user who is sure to take the following safety precautions:

• Read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly before using a wood chipper.
• Use hearing protection, eye protection, hand protection, and a hard hat.
• When users are feeding branches into the wood chipper, they shouldn’t force stubborn branches into the blades. Users will want to let the chipper pull branches in while they stand to the side to avoid flying debris.
• Keep hands and any other body part away from the wood chipper when it is connected to a power source. A simple accident could result in severe injury or death.
• Users will want to disconnect the power and the spark plug before performing maintenance to ensure that the wood chipper does not start up while they’re vulnerable to the blades.

The Advantages of Owning a Wood Chipper

Yard-waste disposal is the greatest benefit of owning a wood chipper. Bushes require regular trimming, trees may need pruning, and old trees shed dead branches frequently, which can create a substantial pile of wood and yard material to remove. A wood chipper makes it easy to use or dispose of that debris.

Wood chippers are also a useful tool to reduce the potentially harmful emissions produced by burning chemically treated wood. Instead of releasing these toxic fumes and unpleasant odors into the air, wood can be mulched and used to protect plants.

Besides mulch, users may also create pressed wood for carpentry projects or biofuel for certain cars or other machinery.

To recap, a wood chipper:

• Quickly process yard waste into small, easily managed chips;
• Provides an environmentally friendly means of disposing of yard waste; and
• Produces useful materials like mulch, pressed wood, and biofuel.

FAQs

Q. How big a wood chipper do I need?

Electric wood chippers are made for processing small and midsize twigs and branches. For this purpose, most users only require a wood chipper with a 1.5-inch cutting diameter. But if you have older trees on your property, or wish to grind up leaves and other finely textured material, you may want to have a larger gas-powered chipper. These models feature a hopper for processing fine materials and a larger branch chute to chip branches up to 3 inches in diameter.

Q. How do you use a wood chipper?

Choose a level location for the machine to sit. Once it is in position, set the parking brake on any equipment used to haul it and then adjust the chip deflector and chip chute to direct chips to your desired location.

Check the chipper for any debris before starting. If it is clear, start it up. If it isn’t, you’ll want to disconnect the spark plug and clean it out before turning it on. Never perform maintenance of any kind without disconnecting the power.

With the engine started, feed material into the wood chipper, blunt end first. The machine will begin chipping away, allowing you to back off and move to the side of the chipper so you don’t get hit by pieces that may shoot out. Once you have finished chipping, clean up the wood chips with a leaf blower or leaf vacuum and either dispose of them or put them to good use.

Q. How do you feed a wood chipper?

To feed material into the wood chipper, begin with the blunt end and carefully guide it into the chipper. You may also want to include a mixture of dry and green limbs so that the moisture from the green branches can help to cool and lubricate the wood chipper’s knives.

Q. How loud is a wood chipper?

A wood chipper’s noise output generally falls between 85 and 110 decibels, which is more than enough to warrant hearing protection.

Q. How much does a wood chipper cost?

Wood chippers range in price from about $150 to well over $2,000, depending on the type, size, torque, and overall power. Typically, residential wood chippers cost about $200 to $800, though heavy-duty models can greatly exceed this amount.

Q. Can wood chippers shred leaves?

Some wood chippers can also shred leaves, but if you don’t need to chip any wood, it may be better to invest in a dedicated leaf shredder instead. These tools tend to take up less space and they are more affordable.

Q. Is it better to chip wood when it is dry or wet?

Dry wood is harder and causes more wear and tear on the chipper’s blades, so it’s best to do wood chipping when the wood is cool and moist.

Q. What shouldn’t I put in a wood chipper?

Keep yourself safe and protect your equipment by only chipping branches within the size range your machine is built to process. Never place branches that may have nails or screws, lumber, excessively sappy wood, long vines, palm fronds, or other fibrous materials into the chipper.

Q. How do you clean a wood chipper?

Start any maintenance process by stopping the engine (ensuring all moving parts have stopped before proceeding) and disconnecting the spark plug wire or power cord to prevent accidental start-up.

To clean the wood chipper, begin by removing the flail screen and any larger debris. Clean the flail screen separately, and then clean the chute and around the muffler with water and a brush or dry cloth. Avoid using a high-pressure spray of water because it can contaminate the fuel system.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with a background in the nursery and landscaping industries. For more than 20 years he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn care products, and other outdoor-living goods.

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale and Tom Scalisi.

The post The 7 Wood Chippers That Cut Best in Our Tests appeared first on Bob Vila.

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing is widely used in today’s plumbing and HVAC systems because it’s flexible and easy to work with if you have high-quality PEX crimp tools. We researched more than 20 PEX crimpers, and we chose four for hands-on testing. While all performed well, our favorite is the Iwiss iCrimp F1807 kit for its durability and multipurpose versatility. 

In addition to the ones we tested, we’re featuring several additional PEX piping tools that we feel would be good picks for anyone working with PEX tubing. Keep reading to find out what to look for when shopping for tools for PEX plumbing, and find out how the following earned a spot on this lineup of the best PEX crimp tools.

1. BEST OVERALL: Iwiss iCrimp F1807 All-In-One Crimping Tool Kit
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. RUNNER-UP: Plumbflex Crimper Tool Kit
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX Cinch Tool Kit
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4. BEST MULTIPURPOSE: SharkBite PEX Crimp Tool
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5. BEST COMPACT: Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX Copper Ring Crimp Tool Kit
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6. BEST MULTISIZE HEAD: Apollo PEX Multi-Head Crimp Tool Kit
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7. BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES: Iwiss iCrimp Angle Head F1807 PEX Crimp Tool Kit
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8. BEST PROFESSIONAL: Milwaukee M18 Press Tool Kit With PEX Crimp Jaws
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9. ALSO CONSIDER: Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C Angle PEX Crimping Tools
   ↓ Jump to Review

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The best PEX crimp tools on the market are made with effectiveness, ergonomics, and ease of use in mind. Check out our list of the ones we tested plus some additional models we think look great.  

Best Overall

Iwiss iCrimp F1807 All-In-One Crimping Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps
• Length: 15.55 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Accommodates PEX A, B, or C tubing types 
• PEX crimp removal tool and pipe cutter included 
• Includes a go/no-go gauge 
• Hard carrying case included

What We Don’t Like

• Hand strength needed to crimp 

If you’ll be installing a lot of PEX, this Iwiss iCrimp kit has everything you need in one place. The kit comes with a crimper; jaws for ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch pipe; a PEX pipe cutter; and a crimp-removal tool. It also features a go/no-go gauge and a wrench for calibrating the crimper. We liked the way all the tools fit nicely into the included hard plastic carrying case for protection.

The Iwiss PEX crimping tool kit is easy to use. We were able to change jaws when we were crimping different sizes of tubing. The long handles make applying sufficient force for crimping relatively easy, but it still takes some hand strength to crimp the rings snugly. The included go/no-go gauge is a definite perk. 

After crimping a ring on a PEX fitting, we used the gauge to see if we’d crimped it accurately. The removal tool made it easy to cut through incorrectly fitting crimp rings, and the cutter was a nice bonus because it ensured flush tubing edges that fit smoothly against the shoulders of the copper fittings. This kit gives you everything you need to run PEX tubing. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp F1807 all-in-one PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Runner-up

Plumbflex Crimper Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.8/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Clamps
• Length: 11 inches
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• Works with cinch rings from different manufacturers
• Includes a high-quality cutter
• Comes with 50 clamps in both sizes
• Attached cinch rings securely in testing

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t come with a go/no-go tool
• Not suitable for ⅜- or 1-inch PEX

The Plumbflex PEX crimper is suitable for use with ½- and ¾-inch tubing, the most common sizes used in residential construction. This clamp-type tool performed flawlessly in our tests. We used it to attach stainless steel cinch clamps to both sizes of PEX tubing, and the fittings were snug and secure. Plus, it comes with 50 clamps of each size, so we had plenty to test with. 

It doesn’t come with a go/no-go tool, but you can pick one up for under $10 from any home improvement store. We used one of the go/no-go tools that came with another model we tested, and each clamp we applied was right on target.

One of the benefits of a PEX clamp tool (including this one) over a traditional crimp tool is the ability to reach into tight spots because there’s no need to spread the handles as far. We tried out the Plumbflex on a few cinch rings we had from a different manufacturer, and it worked just as well. 

Another perk is the PEX cutter that comes with the clamp tool. It cuts the tubing straight and flush so the edges fit smoothly against the shoulders of the brass crimp fittings. If you won’t be installing narrower ⅜-inch or larger 1-inch tubing, the Plumbflex is a quality pick. 

Get the Plumbflex PEX crimp tool at The Home Depot.

Best Bang For The Buck

Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX Cinch Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4.8/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Clamps 
• Length: 11.02 inches
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Works with multiple sizes of PEX
• Comes with 30 cinch rings
• Compact size for working in tight spaces 
• Comes with good cutter

What We Don’t Like

• No storage case included
• Complicated removal function

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tool for securing stainless steel cinch rings, look no further than the iCrimp PEX cinch tool. This clamp cincher works for any size PEX and comes with 30 clamps, so you can get started right away. It performed well in our tests, but it took a bit more hand strength to completely snug the cinch rings than the Plumbflex model. 

Still, it did a good job and comes with a top-notch PEX cutter. The only downside was that the removal feature of the tool didn’t work well for us. We followed the instructions for adjusting the tool from the clamping feature to the removal feature (which requires about five steps), and then we tried to cut the tabs, but all we got were smashed tabs. Maybe we didn’t do it right (that’s likely), but it seems like a complex process and simpler to just use a dedicated removal tool. 

One additional thing to note is that the iCrimp cinch tool cannot be calibrated. However, we found it well calibrated right out of the package, and it should be fine for completing most PEX plumbing projects. This tool lets you make high-quality connections at an affordable price point.

Get the Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Best Multipurpose

SharkBite PEX Crimp Tool

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Performance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.8/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps
• Length: 14.5 inches
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Consistently made secure connections
• Easy-to-change jaws
• Go/no-go gauge included
• Mini hard case
• Ergonomic handles for comfort

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than some at nearly 4 pounds
• Limited use in tight spots

We’re big fans of traditional push-to-connect SharkBite fittings, so we were excited to test the brand’s crimper tool and weren’t disappointed. At just under 4 pounds, the SharkBite crimper is one of the heavier PEX plumbing tools we tested, but it did a spectacular job of creating a secure connection each time. 

We tested it with stainless steel crimp rings, but it’s also designed to accommodate copper crimp rings. Changing jaws on the SharkBite was simple, and it comes with a go/no-go gauge so we could check each ring after crimping to ensure it was correct. It performed flawlessly. 

The SharkBite comes complete with a mini hard case that secures the gauge and the jaws, and it fits over the head of the PEX pipe crimping tool. We actually prefer this type of case because it doesn’t take up a lot of space in our tool box, and we can even slip it in a tool belt. The mini case protects the working parts of the tool and keeps the accessories secure. 

However, it doesn’t come with a removal tool and is not designed for use in restricted spots—its handles must be completely opened (nearly 180 degrees) to crimp a ring. However, it manages all standard PEX sizes, and the ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue. 

Get the SharkBite PEX crimp tool at Lowe’s. 

More Great Options

While we didn’t personally test the following PEX plumbing crimpers, they were on our short list before we selected the ones we wanted to test—and they’re still among our top picks. 

Best Compact

Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX Copper Ring Crimp Tool Kit

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 12.2 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• High-leverage design
• Multiple jaw sizes 
• PEX cutter and go/no-go gauge included 
• Comes in a hard plastic case

What We Don’t Like

• Shorter handle than comparable options 

We know it can be tough to find a compact PEX crimper that fits in a tool box but still provides the leverage required to seal off a PEX joint. But if you’re looking for just that kind of item, check out the Iwiss IWS-FAS PEX crimping tool. This crimper uses a high-leverage design that allows the user to apply enough pressure for a perfect seal despite its compact 12.2-inch design.

This PEX crimping kit is more than just an innovative tool. We like that it comes with the jaws required for crimping ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch pipe, plus a PEX cutter, a go/no-go gauge, and a hard plastic case to carry it all. That’s a lot!

Get the Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX crimp tool at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Multisize Head

Apollo PEX Multi-Head Crimp Tool Kit

See It

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 17 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• 4 sets of jaws 
• Go/no-go gauge and wrench included 
• Plastic carrying case 

What We Don’t Like

• Big, heavy construction 

For a heavy-duty crimping tool that can tackle most PEX tubing plumbing projects, we think the Apollo PEX multihead crimp tool kit is worth a look. This tool kit comes with the crimper, four sets of jaws (⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch sizes), a go/no-go gauge, and a wrench for adjustments and calibration. The jaws swap out with two hex bolts, which the included wrench also fits.

The Apollo provides plenty of leverage for sealing off plumbing joints, good for creating up to 100 pounds of force. The components pack nicely into the plastic carrying case, keeping everything secure and in one place between projects. The only thing we would like it to include is a PEX cutter to make straight flush cuts.

Get the Apollo PEX crimp tool at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best For Tight Spaces

Iwiss iCrimp Angle Head F1807 PEX Crimp Tool Kit

See It

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 13.7 inches 
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Suitable for crimping tasks in tight spaces
• Tubing cutter and crimping rings included 
• Go/no-go gauge included
• Hard plastic carrying case

What We Don’t Like

• Shorter handles provide limited leverage 
• No PEX cutter included

One advantage that PEX fittings have over copper piping is that in-wall repairs in tight spaces are much easier and safer, but they can still be challenging to reach and crimp. This product’s unique offset-head design allows the user to get a grip on any ½- or ¾-inch crimp, even in hard-to-reach places. We think this would be optimal for renovations where the user is retrofitting the plumbing.

This kit’s crimper comes with built-in jaws for ½- and ¾-inch pipe, as well as a tubing cutter and several crimp rings. It also has a go/no-go gauge, alerting the user to calibration issues and potential leaks. All of this gear stores away in a hard plastic carrying case. While we didn’t test this model, we’re familiar with many Iwiss iCrimp PEX plumbing tools, and we’ve never had a problem with any of them. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp angle head PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Best Professional

Milwaukee M18 Press Tool Kit With PEX Crimp Jaws

See It

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 

• Length: 13.5 inches

• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ⅝-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• Power PEX crimp tool
• Fast and precise alignment

• Green light to show cycle is complete

• Kit includes charger, 2 batteries, and case

What We Don’t Like

• Bulk makes it challenging to work in tight spaces
• Cutter, ⅜-inch, and ⅝-inch jaws are not included

We’re well aware that using a manual PEX crimp tool all day can result in hand pain. While we’ve never used a powered crimp tool, we think the technology is awesome and we’re looking forward to seeing more manufacturers implement it in the near future. 

Milwaukee’s powerful 18-volt press tool kit is the solution many professionals prefer. Spring-loaded jaws provide precise alignment for flawless fitting of all PEX crimp sizes. According to Milwaukee, this tool is 40 percent faster than powered rivals, with a full cycle taking just 3 seconds.

Optimized force means no calibration intervals interrupt work, and no calibration tool is required. A pre-press battery check ensures sufficient charge to complete the crimp successfully, and a green LED confirms this at the end of the cycle. However, there’s no cutter in the kit, and while three sets of jaws are included, the ⅜- and ⅝-inch versions cost extra.

Get the Milwaukee PEX crimp tool at The Home Depot or Amazon.

Also Consider

Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C Angle PEX Crimping Tools

See It

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 7.87 inches
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• PEX cutter included with purchase
• Compact size for tight spaces
• Precalibrated design 

What We Don’t Like

• Short handle may be difficult for some users 

Occasionally, plumbing projects and repairs get so tight and restricted that they require scaled-down tools to get the job done. For projects like those, we like the iCrimp angle PEX crimp tool combo. This two-pack of PEX crimping tools features a ½-inch crimper and a ¾-inch model, plus a PEX tubing cutter, both sized to easily fit in a standard tool box. 

These PEX crimping tools can fit in some tight spots thanks to their compact size and diameter-dedicated jaws. Unlike many other crimp tools, both of these tools come from the factory precalibrated. If you’re looking at making water-supply line repairs or retrofits, we think this is a good pick for getting in those tight spots. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C angle PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best PEX Crimp Tools

Before selecting the tools we wanted to test, we chatted with Korey Gregory, superintendent at water damage specialists ASAP Restoration in Tempe, Arizona. He stresses that “ineffective PEX crimp tools don’t create a tight enough seal around the ring.” 

We then extensively researched and chose to test PEX crimp tools made for PEX A, B, or C with crimps or clamps to suit individual users’ preferences. We selected models for various PEX tubing sizes, including ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch sizes. Several of our picks come from Iwiss, a leading manufacturer of high-quality crimping tools. 

In actual testing, we used each tool to securely attach rings or clamps to PEX fittings. We swapped out the jaws (when applicable) and used the accessories that came with the tools to see how well they were made. We used go/no-go gauges to determine whether the crimping tools were securing the fasteners to the correct degree. 

During the tests, we awarded points based on a rubric. Afterward, we averaged the points to find our top pick and categorize the other models according to their best uses. 

What to Consider When Choosing a PEX Crimp Tool 

Gregory offers some additional sound advice: “One of the ways to ensure that you get a quality crimper is to choose ones with longer handles rather than shorter ones. Longer handles help to give you leverage when doing the actual crimping.” He adds, “If you are starting a plumbing business, have wrist problems, or just a huge number of PEX crimps to do, then a powered PEX crimper tool might be worth the investment.”

Types of PEX Crimp Tools 

PEX is a flexible tubing that can transport fresh water, hot water, radiant heating, and even sprinkler-system water, making it very popular in residential applications.

These plastic pipes all work the same way, and most of the same joints will apply for all three types. However, their makeup and characteristics vary. One thing to understand is that PEX A, B, and C do not indicate a grade or quality of PEX piping. Those designations simply designate the manufacturing process used to create the pipe. 

PEX A

PEX A is the most expensive type of PEX, and it has some desirable properties. For one, even though it comes in rolled coils, PEX A will hold its new shape when straightened, making it easier to install through wall cavities and floors. However, PEX A does have the potential to leach more production-related chemicals, like toluene and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), into the water supply. Also, it has a lower bursting pressure than PEX B. 

PEX B

PEX B can cost half as much as PEX A, and that price comes with some advantages and disadvantages. PEX B has a higher bursting pressure than PEX A, and chemical leaching from the pipe is considerably less likely. However, it doesn’t straighten well and it kinks relatively easily, which can make it a bit of a hassle to install.

PEX C

PEX C isn’t very common, and DIYers are unlikely to come across it. The manufacturing process used to create PEX C makes it relatively weak compared to PEX A and B. It’s also less resistant to oxidation, meaning PEX C will wear down through normal usage faster than A and B.

Crimps vs. Clamps

When shoppers are learning about PEX plumbing tools, a key point is that there are crimps and clamps. 

• Crimps may be stainless steel or copper crimp rings that slide over a joint, and the crimping tool squeezes the entire ring down onto the barbed fitting underneath. Copper crimps are burlier than clamps, but they’re more susceptible to corrosion. 
• Clamps are stainless steel bands with small tabs and locking holes. Clamping tools squeeze a tab that snugs the crimp fitting over the tubing. Stainless steel clamps are easier to install and less likely to corrode, but they’re also much thinner than copper crimps, so they may bend or separate more easily. 

Length

For putting strong pressure on a crimp, longer handles are better. The longer the tool’s handle, the more leverage the user can apply to the crimp or clamp, requiring less effort to create a perfect seal. Look for a pipe crimping tool at least 11 inches in length. Since longer-handled PEX piping tools can be slightly awkward, they might have more of a learning curve than shorter-handled ones. 

Clamps tend to be easier to secure and require less effort, so handle length isn’t as much of a priority. 

Weight 

Plumbers and electricians who use these tools regularly will want to look for options between 1 and 9 pounds; most options weigh under 4 pounds. However, heavyweight options may provide more crimping power than their lighter counterparts.

Pipe

Before picking a crimping or clamping tool, know what type of pipe it works for. While many types of clamping and crimping tools work for plumbing joints, not all of them work for PEX pipe.

Some tools work for both copper and PEX pipe, but they generally require additional jaws or PEX crimp fittings. Buying models with added features can get expensive quickly, but for those who do a lot of plumbing, it might be worth the investment to be able to perform multiple plumbing functions with a single tool. Switching a fitting on a clamping tool takes less time than sweating a copper joint with flux and solder.

Capacity

Don’t worry about choosing the PEX crimp tool that is the right size. Because PEX comes in only a few sizes—⅜, ½, ¾, ⅝ , and 1 inch—most clamping or crimping tools made for PEX will do. Swapping between those sizes is usually pretty straightforward. 

Electrical and plumbing crimping tools typically have 1-inch jaws that can crimp 1-inch pipe, but their kits come with smaller jaws for tackling smaller pipes. To clamp those smaller pipes, simply open the 1-inch jaws and slip the necessary-size clamping jaws inside. 

Clamping tools are often one size fits all. They slide over the knob on the clamp and squeeze it, and those knobs are relatively universal in size.

Gauge 

The point of any plumbing job is to avoid leaks. With PEX crimps, it can be difficult to tell by eye or feel if there’s a good seal. Some tools come with go/no-go gauges to help ensure each fitting is tightly sealed.

These gauges have U-shaped cutouts meant for specific pipe sizes. To use a go/no-go gauge, slide it over the joint. Check it from several angles. The gauge should slip over the crimp about halfway before stopping. If it slides over the crimp—or not at all—the joint may have problems when pressurized. 

Calibration

Over time, clamping and crimping tools can fall out of perfect calibration. Applying pressure many times throughout a plumbing project can stretch the jaws, in which case they’ll need a little tightening.

Most PEX crimp and clamp tools have adjustment screws, and they often come with the wrenches required to tighten them. Use these to tighten the tools back to the ideal settings. Many have adjustments on both jaws, allowing for calibrating to a perfectly round result. 

The gauge can also determine if the jaws are overtightened, which can just as easily lead to a leak. 

Removal Function

Many of the best PEX clamp tools have removal functions for separating clamps from the pipe. Don’t expect to reuse these clamps or crimps, though, as the removal process either cuts them or damages their integrity. However, the fitting underneath should be completely intact.

Removing crimps requires an entirely different tool with a blade for cutting through the crimp rings. 

FAQs 

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. 

Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi. 

The post The Best PEX Crimp Tools for Plumbing Projects, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

It’s difficult to imagine the immense twisting force that an air impact wrench can apply. Here’s an example: A nut that is “hand tight” requires a pressure of about 2 pounds per square foot, or 2 foot-pounds (ft-lbs). The best air impact wrenches multiply that energy more than 500 times. Air impact wrenches make easy work out of otherwise tough jobs like loosening lug nuts, in which an extension bar on a standard wrench can prove insufficient. You won’t find a pro auto shop without an impact wrench for tires, and they’re also used in engineering and construction.

Air impact wrenches are neither complicated nor difficult to use, so there’s no reason amateur mechanics shouldn’t have one of these tools at home, especially if they already own an air compressor. We tested five impact wrenches and found the Aircat 1250-K, with its high torque output (twisting force) and sturdy build, to be the best of the bunch.

We compiled the following sections to help you understand the important features of these handy tools. This information can help you find the best air impact wrench for the job.

1. BEST OVERALL: Aircat 1250-K ½-Inch Nitrocat Kevlar Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: ACDelco ANI405A Pneumatic Air ½-Inch Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. UPGRADE PICK: Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX ½-Inch Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
4. BEST COMPACT: Aircat 1056-XL ½-Inch Nitrocat Compact Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
5. BEST FOR HOME MECHANICS: DeWalt DWMT70773L ½-Inch Drive Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
6. BEST HIGH-POWERED: Aircat 1150 ½-Inch Composite Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review
7. BEST FOR LUG NUTS: Ingersoll Rand 232TGSL ½-Inch Impact Wrench
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8. BEST ERGONOMIC: Campbell Hausfeld ½-Inch Impact Wrench 
   ↓ Jump to Review
9. HONORABLE MENTION: Workpad ½-Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench
   ↓ Jump to Review

Our Top Picks

We chose the following air impact wrenches for their performance, reliability, and value. While Aircat and Ingersoll Rand dominate the market, some interesting alternatives exist in several categories.

Best Overall

Aircat 1250-K ½-Inch Nitrocat Kevlar Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Powerful lug nut-removing torque for changing tires
• Pro-level build quality
• Three torque settings for tightening

What We Don’t Like

• Only one torque setting for reverse

Specs

• Torque: 1,300 ft-lbs
• Speed: 8,500 revolutions per minute (RPM)
• Noise level: 86 decibels

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 4/5 

The ½-inch Nitrocat air impact wrench is an outstanding tool from the Aircat range. In terms of pure performance, to say it is impressive is an understatement. But there’s no denying that it is expensive, and casual or home users are unlikely to need the performance it delivers.

Its breakaway torque is 1,300 ft-lbs, with a normal level of 950 ft-lbs. That showed during testing. Of the five impact wrenches we tested, the Nitrocat offered the least resistance when removing lug nuts from our Toyota Tundra, spinning off each lug nut with ease using our 21-millimeter impact socket. 

To maximize control, this high-torque impact wrench contains a three-way adjustment, including three torque settings for tightening bolts. This was handy in avoiding over-torquing our lug nuts when we were reattaching them. But when it comes to removal, the impact wrench only has a single torque setting. While this didn’t impact performance, it was overkill for removing our lug nuts and could potentially cause them to spin off the socket and go flying through the air.

The Nitrocat is built to take a beating with a heavy-duty stainless steel housing and Kevlar-reinforced body that’s durable enough to handle a professional shop. 

For all its power and rock-solid build quality, the Nitrocat 1250-K air impact wrench still weighs under 5 pounds. The Aircat comes with a steep price tag, but for serious home mechanics or those who work on other people’s cars, it’s a worthy investment. 

What our tester says: “The Aircat somehow manages to produce ample power while at the same time operating with very little vibration or noise.” —Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Aircat 1250-K air impact wrench at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

ACDelco ANI405A Pneumatic Air ½-Inch Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Fraction of the price of competing impact wrenches
• 5-speed design adds versatility 
• Durable build quality 

What We Don’t Like

• Lacks the power of higher-end impact wrenches

Specs

• Torque: 500 ft-lbs
• Speed: 8,000 RPM
• Noise level: 97.7 decibels

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 3.3/5; Noise 3/5; Value 4.5/5 

The ½-inch ACDelco air impact wrench is a high-quality all-around tool that offers excellent value without much sacrifice. Its 500 ft-lbs of max torque is well below the top-performing impact wrenches on this list, but for most home mechanics, it’s more than sufficient. While we experienced a little hesitation when breaking the lug nuts on our truck free, the wrench still removed the lug nuts and did so fairly quickly. The torque output is not adjustable, but the speed adjusts via four settings that go to a maximum free speed of 8,000 RPM, giving some flexibility when working with different-size nuts

The ACDelco is noticeably louder than the other impact wrenches we tested, which is in line with its rating of 97.7 decibels. It’s heavier, too, weighing in at nearly a pound more than our top pick for this guide, though it is well balanced, and the handle does feel comfortable to hold. With its stainless-steel housing, this air impact wrench feels durable, but the steel housing does nick and scratch fairly easily. 

The ACDelco’s limited torque wouldn’t pass muster for most professional auto shops, but it’s certainly adequate for home mechanics working on their own vehicles. Moreover, its low cost puts it within reach of users who might not have considered owning an air impact wrench.

What our tester says: “While the ACDelco may not match other air impact wrenches in power, it’s hard not to like the performance it offers at a super low price.” —Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the ACDelco air impact wrench at Amazon or Walmart.

Upgrade Pick

Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX ½-Inch Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Produces a tremendous amount of torque
• Operates with very little vibration
• Durably built yet surprisingly light

What We Don’t Like

• Comes with a steep price tag
• Hard plastic handle

Specs

• Torque: 1,300 ft-lbs
• Speed: 8,500 RPM
• Noise level: 88.7 decibels

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 4/5; Noise 5/5; Value 4/5 

With a nut-busting torque rating of 1,300 ft-lbs and a standard rating of 900 ft-lbs, the ½-inch 2235QTiMAX air impact wrench from Ingersoll Rand is among the most powerful tools in its class. A four-stage power regulator provides excellent control, and the twin hammer action runs at 1,220 blows per minute (BPM). 

All of those impressive specs added up to outstanding performance in testing. The 2235QTiMAX spun off our lug nuts rapidly with little resistance. Despite all that power, this heavy-duty impact wrench operates smoothly with very little vibration, making it comfortable to use. We also liked the versatility of the torque adjustment dial, which works when both tightening and in reverse. This allowed us to slow down the tightening speed to avoid over-tightening while also dialing back the power after breaking free a lug nut to prevent spinning it off into the air. Our only gripe is with the lack of a rubber grip on the hard plastic handle.

The 2235QTiMAX is also built like a rock with a titanium case that’s impact- and chemical-resistant. It’s clearly a tool that is built for professional auto mechanics. Despite its sturdy build, it weighs just 4.6 pounds.

The Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX is easily the most expensive impact wrench on our list, but it’s worth the splurge for those who spend most of their weekends working in their home auto shop or those who work on other people’s cars for a living. 

Get the Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX air impact wrench at Amazon or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Compact

Aircat 1056-XL ½-Inch Nitrocat Compact Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Compact design can fit into tight spaces
• Surprisingly powerful considering small, lightweight build
• Convenient power controls on the trigger

What We Don’t Like

• Fair amount of vibration when using

Specs

• Torque: 750 ft-lbs
• Speed: 9,000 RPM
• Noise level: 85 decibels

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 3.8/5; Noise 4/5; Value 5/5 

The Aircat 1056-XL’s compact lightweight design, surprising power, and affordable price tag make it a great choice for home auto mechanics. This impact wrench is the easiest to use of the five impact wrenches we tested thanks to its compact size. Its head measures just 4.25 inches front to back, it weighs only 2.5 pounds, and it has an ergonomic grip. This makes the 1056-XL easy to use with one hand in tight spaces, allowing access to bolts located deeper inside the engine bay. We also like the trigger-mounted power management switch, which makes it easy to adjust torque and speed without changing position or shifting the grip. 

Despite its small size, this Aircat has a high breakaway torque of 750 ft-lbs, which was plenty of power for removing lug nuts from our truck rims, though we did notice significantly more vibration with this impact wrench over beefier models. With a max speed of 9,000 RPM, we never felt like this was an impact wrench that would slow us down. The Aircat 1056-XL has a composite housing that gives it a solid, durable feel, even with its lighter overall weight. And at just 85 decibels, the Aircat 1056-XL air impact wrench is among the quietest tools on this list. Add to that an affordable price tag, and the Aircat 1056-XL is a great option for home mechanics or as a travel tool for mechanics on the go. 

Get the Aircat 1056-XL air impact wrench at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Home Mechanics

DeWalt DWMT70773L ½-Inch Drive Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Ergonomic handle with shock-absorbing rubber grip
• Easy-access switch on the trigger
• Great cost value
• High breaking torque of 1,200 ft-lbs

What We Don’t Like

• Noticeable vibration when operating
• A little top-heavy

Specs

• Torque: 650 ft-lbs
• Speed: 7,500 RPM
• Noise level: Unlisted 

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 4/5; Noise 4/5; Value 5/5 

The DeWalt ½-inch drive impact wrench provides both power and ease of use with its rugged, high-powered design and the ability to use with a one-handed grip. While the DeWalt operates at a lower speed and torque than some of the top-of-the-line models that cost twice as much, it does have a breaking max torque of 1,200 ft-lbs, which is more than enough to break even tougher lug nuts. It didn’t hesitate after repeated efforts to remove lug nuts during testing.

The DeWalt has more vibration than some of the pricier impact wrenches we tested, but it makes up for it with an ergonomic handle and shock-absorbing rubberized grip that makes it comfortable to hold. We also like the three variable-speed power settings that can be adjusted via the built-in power dial, and a direction switch that’s located at the trigger for easy access. The DeWalt also has a durable feel with a hard plastic housing and rubber bumpers on the sides that protect against scuffing or scraping. 

While the DeWalt’s lower torque output means it won’t find a place in many professional auto shops, its high breaking torque output makes it more than powerful enough for automotive maintenance at home. Plus, it costs hundreds of dollars less than those higher-end impact wrenches.

Get the DeWalt air impact wrench at Amazon or The Home Depot.

More Great Options

Along with the products we hands-on tested, we also recommend the following impact wrenches, which we selected based on extensive research and customer reviews. 

Best High Powered

Aircat 1150 ½-Inch Composite Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Produces high amount of torque 
• Quiet operation volume at just 86 decibels 
• Lightweight, ergonomic option at just 4.5 pounds

What We Don’t Like

• Longer head won’t fit into tight spaces

Specs

• Torque: 900 ft-lbs
• Speed: 9,000 RPM
• Noise level: 86 decibels

With so many good tools around, it’s tough to pick the best air impact wrench for everyone’s power needs. However, the ½-inch Aircat 1150 is likely to appeal to most people, as it certainly offers impressive performance. 

The loosening torque of 1,295 ft-lbs should raise a few eyebrows as well as the standard operating torque at 900 ft-lbs with three-way adjustment. A twin hammer action works at 1,400 impacts per minute (IPM), and the free speed is 9,000 RPM; plus, at 4.5 pounds, this is not an unwieldy tool. It’s also among the quieter air impact wrenches at just 86 decibels. Plus, the ergonomic handle prevents any strain on the user’s wrists or hands.

Available as a stand-alone tool or with a number of extras, this model comes with three invaluable extensions to increase reach and versatility.

Get the Aircat 1150 air impact wrench at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Lug Nuts

Ingersoll Rand 232TGSL ½-Inch Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• High free speed of 10,000 RPM
• Ample nut-busting torque 
• Designed to look like NASCAR impact wrenches

What We Don’t Like

• Heavy overall weight 
• Very noisy at 105 decibels

Specs

• Torque: 500 ft-lbs
• Speed: 10,000 RPM
• Noise level: 105.2 decibels

Lug-nut removal is one of the most common uses for air impact wrenches, and the ½-inch Ingersoll Rand 232TGSL air impact wrench is designed specifically for this purpose. While largely intended for professional use, it also makes a good addition to a home auto enthusiast’s tool kit.

NASCAR fans might recognize its design since it’s based on the racetrack version of the tool. The 232TGSL produces 625 ft-lbs of maximum reverse torque and 500 ft-lbs of forward torque, with a regulator for power adjustment. Its BPM is 1,250, and with a free speed of 10,000 RPM, it’s the fastest full-size air impact wrench currently available.

At 6 pounds, it’s a bit of a handful, and it’s quite loud at 105.2 decibels. Nevertheless, for those who remove lug nuts all day, the performance is hard to beat.

Get the Ingersoll Rand 232TGSL air impact wrench at Amazon or Tractor Supply Co.

Best Ergonomic

Campbell Hausfeld ½-Inch Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Well-balanced for ease of use
• 3 power settings 
• Ergonomic rubberized grip 

What We Don’t Like

• Weighs over 5 pounds

Specs

• Torque: 550 ft-lbs
• Speed: 8000 RPM
• Noise level: Unlisted

Campbell Hausfeld is perhaps better known for its high-performance compressors, but its ½-inch air impact wrench has plenty to offer the home auto enthusiast and DIY user. Although at 5.2 pounds it weighs more than some, it’s a well-balanced tool with a tough but comfortable rubberized grip and protective body armor.

This impact wrench’s working torque of 550 ft-lbs is plenty for the home user, with three power settings to maximize control. Its free speed is 8,000 RPM, and the hammer action produces 1,200 IPM.

Get the Campbell Hausfeld air impact wrench at Amazon or The Home Depot. 

Honorable Mention

Workpad ½-Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench

See It

What We Like

• Can fit into tight spaces 
• Adjustable power settings prevent over-tightening 
• Surprisingly powerful for its size 

What We Don’t Like

• Not ideal for heavy-duty applications

Specs

• Torque: 500 ft-lbs
• Speed: 10,000 RPM
• Noise level: 112 decibels

Although Workpad may not be a top brand name, its ½-inch air impact wrench has all the features offered by many of its rivals and may be all that many home users need.

Although it’s called a “mini” air impact wrench, the term applies to its compact size and is no reflection on performance. In fact, the power-to-weight ratio is excellent. A maximum of 500 ft-lbs of torque is available, and there’s a three-position regulator for easy adjustment. Free speed is 10,000 RPM.

The tool has a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum body that keeps its weight down to 3.3 pounds. The only drawback is the noise; at 112 decibels, it’s louder than many.

Get the Workpad air impact wrench at Amazon. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Air Impact Wrenches

When gathering our top picks for this guide, we looked at a range of brands to find suitable options across a variety of categories. All of our recommendations are from reputable manufacturers that produce robust tools with respectable power and are made from high-quality materials that can stand up to heavy use. 

Our list of recommendations ranges from 500 to 1,300 ft-lbs of torque output, with options to suit many shoppers’ needs. We also considered noise level, reviewing tools that produce a relatively quiet 85 decibels up to 105 decibels.

Of our nine selections, we hands-on tested five. Our testing involved using each impact wrench to remove large lug nuts on a Toyota Tundra with a 21mm-deep impact socket from a Neiko Drive Master ½” impact socket set, which we had previously tested as part of a guide covering the best socket sets. Each socket was tightened to 97 ft-lbs. We evaluated each impact wrench based on several factors, including how easy it was to break each lug nut loose and remove it, the amount of vibration produced by each impact wrench, and each model’s noise level. Finally, we considered each impact wrench’s weight, ergonomics, and build quality. 

What to Consider When Choosing an Air Impact Wrench

Most people’s mental image of an air impact wrench typically includes an auto mechanic attacking stubborn lug nuts. While that’s certainly a popular use for these air tools, they are versatile enough to tackle almost any hexagonal fixing. When shopping for an air impact wrench, consider the following technical features.

Torque 

Torque is rotational force: the energy required to loosen or tighten screws, nuts and bolts, and other fasteners. It is generated by using a screwdriver or a wrench to tighten screws and nuts.

An air impact wrench can generate far more torque than even the strongest person. The most powerful models in this guide produce well over 1,000 ft-lbs. However, when shopping for the best air impact wrench for specific needs, remember that it’s more important to have the right amount of torque rather than the maximum available. 

While users with heavy-duty needs might need the highest torque levels possible, any tool that generates 400 to 500 ft-lbs is sufficient for most users. The terms “nut busting” and “breakaway torque” are used frequently to indicate the maximum torque available for releasing difficult fixings. However, normal operating torque is lower. Depending on the intended use, it may be worth checking forward and reverse torque figures, as they often differ.

Rotation Speed and Impacts

Rotational speed, which appears in RPM on the label, is not the same as torque. Here it’s not about energy but about how quickly the socket spins. It’s an important consideration for those who work on multiple fixings, because it impacts how quickly they can be fastened or loosened. Manufacturers usually describe rotation speed as “free speed” or “no load speed,” which assumes no effort is required to turn the fixing. In the real world, even a small amount of mechanical friction reduces this speed. Nevertheless, knowing the speed is useful for comparison.

Air impact wrenches contain hammer mechanisms within the tool that jolt the socket to increase the effectiveness of the torque. Specifications are stated in impacts per minute (IPM) or, sometimes, blows per minute (BPM). A higher number generally means a more aggressive action, so if you’ll be regularly working with tough fixings, this is another area that warrants attention. That said, high IPM also means the tool vibrates more, which increases user fatigue. Twin hammer actions help balance vibration; while tools with twin hammers still vibrate, the effect is less severe.

Additional Features

• Air demands: All air tools need a portable air compressor to supply sufficient air pressure and volume. Pressure is stated in pounds per square inch (PSI) and volume in standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM, or sometimes just CFM). Air impact wrenches don’t have particularly high-pressure needs, but CFM demands can be higher than other tools. Checking these demands is vital. Many otherwise very good home air compressors may not produce the required supply.
• Weight and grip: Air impact wrenches come in a variety of sizes and materials. Weight can have a big impact on manageability and user fatigue, so while lighter tools usually cost more (because the materials are more expensive), it’s often money well spent. Users also need a good grip on the handle both for control and safety. Contoured and rubberized areas generally improve grip and ergonomics.
• Noise levels: The hammer action generated by an air impact wrench is loud. While better manufacturers try to reduce noise, most tools still exceed current safety levels. Always wear ear protection while using an air impact wrench.
• Sockets: ¼-inch drives exist on light-duty air impact wrenches, but most measure ⅜ inch or ½ inch. This measurement specifies the size of sockets needed. The sockets should be of good quality and marked as “impact ready” or something similar. Cheap socket sets are unlikely to stand up to the pounding they receive and can actually shatter under the force.

Tips for Using an Air Impact Wrench

Always be aware of the important practical and safety aspects of using these powerful tools.

A key component that may be overlooked is the compressor required to supply air. Take into account the necessary air supply specifications, but remember that optimal performance is achieved only if the compressor is properly maintained. While air impact wrenches require little maintenance, regular lubrication is vital. In both cases, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In addition:

• Make sure the air hose is properly connected to the compressor and that the air supply to the air impact wrench is set at the correct pressure (PSI).
• Although many air impact wrenches can be used with one hand, make certain to keep a good grip on the tool when loosening tight nuts and bolts. If the fixing breaks away suddenly, the torque reaction can make the tool jump and cause a nasty wrist sprain.
• Be careful when tightening nuts and bolts. If the torque is too high, the power of the air impact wrench can easily strip threads. If the tool is adjustable, always start at low pressure, then increase it if the fixing is not tight enough.
• Always wear some kind of ear protection. Even “quiet” air impact wrenches may still exceed the 80-decibel limit above which hearing damage can occur.

FAQs

The information provided here is a comprehensive overview of these tools and should help you find the best air impact wrench for your needs. We’ve backed the information with a host of real-world examples of the top tools available. However, a number of questions crop up frequently, so yours may be answered below.

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Popular Mechanics, Futurism, SFGate, Pro Tools Review, and more. Tony has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.

Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.

The post The Best Air Impact Wrenches of 2025 for Tough Jobs, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

I’ve never been able to carry a full sheet of drywall alone—until now. Even with a helper, it was always awkward. And plate glass? Let’s just say my wallet took a hit after a costly mishap. 

Rating: 4.5/5

DeWalt Grabo Lifter

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The first time I saw a DeWalt Grabo, I was intrigued—but skeptical. I’d used glass suction cups before, and they only worked on perfectly smooth, impermeable surfaces.There was no way the Grabo could grip drywall or plywood, or so I thought. I was wrong. 

After loading a DeWalt PowerStack battery into the Grabo, I set it on my kitchen counter and pressed the suction button. Instantly, the rubber seal compressed, gripping the countertop like a vise. Within seconds, it was locked tight—and no matter how hard I yanked, it wouldn’t budge. That was impressive, but how would it fare on other flat surfaces? I headed outside to test. 

Over the next few weeks, I used the Grabo on virtually every hard flat surface I could find, including drywall panels, plywood, steel plates, and more. I discovered that the Grabo worked even on slightly porous surfaces like concrete pavers. It dawned on me that I’d been lifting things the hard way for years. 

That’s when I decided I needed another one—for large, two-person tasks, like carrying heavy marble or travertine slabs. I bought a second DeWalt Grabo Suction Lifter. 

So, how does it work? Pressing the suction button activates an internal vacuum that removes the air between the tool and the surface. A dense foam ring around the base compresses, forming a rock-solid seal. I could actually see the Grabo sink down as the suction kicked in. When the (negative) pressure between the tool and the surface reached about -12.1 PSI, the vacuum shut off, but the suction remained. 

On semi-porous materials, such as concrete pavers, the suction began to drop slowly after the vacuum shut off, but I could still lift and carry the items. When the suction dropped to around -8.4 PSI, the vacuum automatically kicked back on to increase the suction again. The time it takes for the suction to drop depends on the material being carried. When I tested the Grabo on a clean mirror, the suction barely dropped at all—not enough for the tool to kick back on. 

One of my favorite features on the Grabo is its safety button, which prevents accidental activation. DeWalt added a tiny release lever next to the suction start button, which I had to push before I could fully press the start button to activate suction. It only took a few tries before I could do it by feel, but that extra step adds a simple and critical layer of safety.

Like any power tool, the Grabo Suction Lifter may need occasional maintenance. It comes with extra vacuum filters for the small intake holes on the base, and the dense foam seal is also replaceable. Most retailers sell this as a “tool only,” which means you’ll need to buy a separate battery if you don’t have other DeWalt 20V tools. But at $249.00, it’s well worth it for anyone who regularly lifts and hauls panels, glass, or other unwieldy items with smooth surfaces. 

Now, I can’t imagine lifting without it. 

Where to Buy the Dewalt Grabo:

• Amazon for $249
• Lowe’s for $249
• The Home Depot for $249
• Ace Hardware for $249
• ToolUp for $249

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction, DIY tools, and home appliances.

The post I Never Thought I Needed a Suction Lifter—But Once I Tried It—I Had to Have Another One appeared first on Bob Vila.

A couple of months ago I got the Dewalt 735 Planer to help expedite board prep for woodworking projects. I wanted the flexibility to use wood from a variety of sources, but flattening boards and matching thicknesses has never been my favorite part of a project. Sanded “project” lumber is prohibitively expensive and limited in scope. Hand planing is slow, and router planing requires a clunky jig. After years of workarounds, I finally splurged on the right tool for the job.

As a brand, DeWalt enjoys broad-based customer satisfaction across its array of power tool offerings, and I’ve had positive experiences with the DeWalt jobsite table saw and router I’ve been using the past few years. After initially testing it in combination with a Rikon 8-inch jointer, I’ve been using the 13-inch planer to clean up edge-glued panels, and for dimensioning a couple of log-to-lumber milling projects in my workshop. In this DeWalt planer review, I’ll share my observations after two months using the DeWalt DW735, including the pros and cons that I’ve experienced, and why I’m confident that I made the right choice.

Rating: 4.7/5

DeWalt Planer DW735

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Testing the DeWalt Planer DW735 

Store-bought lumber is milled within a fairly wide error-tolerance range that can leave woodworking projects looking rough unless you take the time to match the pieces. The usual way to match boards is by using a jointer to remove cupping and warping, which creates one flat face, then planing the other face down to a set thickness. Alternatively, both of these functions can be completed using only a planer with the help of a shop-built planing sled—an effective option for boards that are too wide for the jointer. The planer smooths the surface, but more importantly, it evens out the board thickness while also making it possible to match thicknesses from one board to the next. I’ve tested this planer both ways.

Over the past couple of months I’ve used the DeWalt 735 Planer with and without the jointer as project circumstances have dictated. I used it while preparing boards for glue-ups, and for final surfacing after gluing. When I wanted to make lumber from an oak log, I used a sled with the planer to flatten the surfaces, then matched thicknesses of the rough-cut boards. I’ve logged about 12 hours on the planer so far, which has been enough time to know that this is exactly the tool I was looking for and that I’m glad I fought the urge to buy a cheaper model. The heavy build and powerful motor give it ample stability and steady cutting power. The thickness selector makes it easy to avoid over-planing while precisely matching boards, and the finished pieces come out with very little snipe or chip-out.

Helpful Features Boost Productivity and Minimize Mistakes

This model has been around long enough to become “exhibit A” when woodworkers need a point of reference with regard to thickness planers. It accepts workpieces up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick, and is capable of removing up to ⅛ inch layers per pass. Powered by a 15 amp motor, the cutter rotates at 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), while the two-speed rollers feed at either 14 or 26 feet per minute. The three-knife cutterhead extends production time between blade replacements up to 30 percent compared to 2-knife models. The two-speed gearbox allows the operator to choose either faster planing at 79 cuts per inch (CPI) or a smoother finish at 196 CPI. 

A few key features set DW735 apart from other planers on the market. First off, it weighs a hefty 92 pounds, which is up to 40 pounds heavier than other popular models. The extra weight hints at better-than-average durability, and more importantly the weight boosts working stability. Another unique feature that I haven’t seen anywhere else is the fan-assisted dust port. Unlike other planers that require an external dust collection vacuum to pull the chips away, this machine is equipped with an impeller and fan that grinds up the shavings and blows them out—all the way across the shop, if not attached to a collection bag.

One of the handiest features is the material removal gauge. It helps when setting up the first pass on a face-jointed rough board. I can place the board beneath the spring-loaded gauge and crank the carriage down until the gauge needle indicates the amount of material I want to remove, then turn on the motor and plane as normal. The planer also has several automatic thickness settings that, when selected, will prevent accidentally making the board too thin.

Hard to Lift, Easy to Operate

I had minimal experience with thickness planers before I got the DeWalt DW735. I had borrowed one a couple of times, but was not proficient. I spent the evening after it arrived setting it up and reading the owner’s manual to make sure I wouldn’t break anything or get injured. Turns out, the biggest risk was that I might throw my back out trying to move it. I recommend getting a helper any time you need to pick this machine up. For shop use, a dedicated planer stand would be a smart addition.

It only took about 15 minutes to set up the planer and assemble the infeed and outfeed tables. I actually purchased the DW735X kit, which is the same machine as the DW735 but includes the infeed/outfeed tables, dust port adapter, and an extra set of knives. The unit is pretty much plug-and-play, but opting for the tool-only unit will require just a bit more setup.  

After adjusting the carriage height for my plank, I flipped the switch and sent the piece through. I decided to test the planer outdoors since I don’t have a dust collection system, and I’m glad I did. When I ran the first test piece through I was amazed to see the wood shavings blown up to 20 feet away. The noise level was much louder than I anticipated, so I put on a set of over-ear hearing protectors and kept working. I experimented with different removal thicknesses, tried out the material removal gauge, the thickness selector, and the different feed speeds on a pile of pine and hardwood scrap. Everything worked as expected and there was basically zero learning curve. 

Plenty of Cutting Power, Silky Smooth Finish, Consistently Accurate

So far I have used the DeWalt Planer DW735 on store-bought poplar and yellow pine lumber, blanks split from an oak log, and various cutoffs and reclaimed boards. I mostly work with pieces that are less than 4 feet long. It has delivered excellent results on everything I have fed it. Neither the feed rate nor the cutting speed seems to be affected by the hardness of the wood. Hardwood, softwood, fresh and sappy or old and dried boards, the finished faces always come out clean and smooth. Thickness accuracy has been pretty much perfect too, although it does produce a bit of snipe. 

Snipe is a ubiquitous issue with benchtop planers. The snipe section averages about 15 thousandths of an inch, measured with a digital caliper, and runs about 3 inches back from the board end. Raising the infeed-outfeed tables a bit has helped, but the best solution I found was to either run longer boards and cut off the snipe, or send a sacrificial board through just ahead of the good board.

The DW735 has a maximum planing depth of ⅛ inch. I usually plane no more than 1/16 inch at a time, often as little as 1/32 inch. The owner’s manual cautions against planing the maximum depth on 13-inch wide boards due to the strain it would place on the motor. In order to provide a full review, I did test the maximum depth on 8-inch-wide lumber. On the nearly flat surface, the full-depth cut seemed (audibly) to strain the motor some, but it did not affect the feed rate or the appearance of the finished surface.

Why I Think the DeWalt DW735 Planer Is Worth Every Penny

I am a firm believer in “buy it once, use it forever,” and the DeWalt DW735 feels like that kind of tool. Based on 2 months of fairly intensive hobby-level use, it has done everything I’ve needed exceedingly well. The blades have remained sharp, the cutter and carriage structure is perfectly sturdy and still exactly square with the feed table. The adjustment mechanisms are dead-on reliable. Just as importantly, it comes from a highly-regarded, time-tested brand that also has an excellent track record for product support. When I eventually need replacement blades, I don’t have to worry whether or not I’ll be able to get them. I think that the price is fair for that level of performance and peace of mind. 

Buy the DeWalt 735 Planer on:

• Amazon for $599.00
• Lowe’s for $599.00
• The Home Depot for $599.00
• Rockler for $599.00 (with extra knives and infeed/outfeed table)
• Byrd Tool for $1,695 (with Shelix helical 40-insert cutterhead upgrade)

Product Comparisons

So, is the DeWalt Planer DW735 right for you?

A power planer can be a big help in the wood shop. Flattening and choosing custom-thickness for rough-cut boards is far less expensive than buying sanded-four-sides (S4S) project lumber at a retail store. Your shop-planed boards will be more consistent than those at the store, and it gives the option to use wood from other sources, like local sawmills or your own logs. A planer also allows for flattening multiple-board panels after gluing them together.

Not every workshop needs a thickness planer. Other workarounds can suffice until buying one is necessary or fits into the budget. If it’s time to buy a benchtop planer, the DeWalt 735 is one of the best options available. The DW735 is not the cheapest or most expensive option, but it offers outstanding performance for the price, and is backed by a support network that offers replacement knives and other parts and accessories to keep it in top condition. You’ll get the best value from the DW735X kit, which includes the infeed/outfeed tables, or for the smoothest possible finish and extra-long cutter life, it is available with the Byrd Tools Shelix upgrade cutterhead pre-installed.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a writer, product tester and serial DIYer who lives in an older home. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about hand and power tools, lawn care and home repair products, and outdoor living goods.

The post In Just 2 Months, This Tool Has Transformed My Workshop appeared first on Bob Vila.

Single-stage snow blowers are compact and lightweight, offering an affordable and highly maneuverable alternative to full-size machines while still eliminating the back-breaking work of shoveling. But when gas, cordless, and corded options can cost between $100 and $1000, it’s hard to know how much you need to spend to get a model you can rely on. That’s why we researched dozens of popular options before testing nine you can trust to clear your driveways and walkways.

After using these tools in a variety of snowy conditions and reaching out to an expert for their opinions, we selected the Snow Joe 24V-X2-SB18 48V Ionmax Snow Blower as our best overall electric model and the Troy-Bilt Squall 208E 21″ Snow Blower as the top gas option. Both machines offer consistent performance and impressive clearing abilities. By reading through the pros and cons of the snow blowers on our list and familiarizing yourself with the features of these machines that matter most, you will be well positioned to choose one of the best single-stage snow blowers for your property.

1. BEST OVERALL ELECTRIC: Snow Joe 24V-X2-SB18 48V Ionmax Snow Blower
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2. BEST OVERALL GAS: Troy-Bilt Squall 208E 21″ Snow Blower
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Greenworks 13-Amp 20″ Corded Snow Thrower
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4. UPGRADE PICK: Ego Power+ Peak Power 21″ Snow Blower
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5. BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Wen 5664 Snow Blaster 18″ Electric Snow Thrower
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6. BEST MEDIUM-DUTY: DeWalt 21″ 60V MAX Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit
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7. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21″ Whisper Snow Blower
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8. BEST SELF-PROPELLED: Toro Power Clear 721 E 21″ Gas Snow Blower
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9. BEST BATTERY LIFE: Greenworks 60V 22″ Single-Stage Snow Blower
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Before You Buy a Single-Stage Snow Blower

Compared to traditional two-stage machines, single-stage snow blowers are lighter, more mobile, and better suited to light- to moderate-duty jobs. For folks who regularly get severe storms with several feet of heavy snow at a time, these machines might be underpowered. 

However, if you’re looking for a good snow blower that can clear smaller amounts of snow on average-size driveways and walkways, a single-stage model will be a relatively cheap snow blower that still offers plenty of convenience power. 

Single-Stage Snow Blowers Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Just ahead are some of the best single-stage snow blowers in a variety of categories, all tested in tough conditions. Each of these snow blowers are capable of clearing driveways and sidewalks after moderate snow events.

Best Overall Electric

Snow Joe 24V-X2-SB18 48V Ionmax Snow Blower

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What We Like

• Two 24-volt batteries; 40 minutes of runtime each
• Quadruple-bladed steel auger cuts 10 inches deep
• Moves up to 10 tons of snow per charge
• 180-degree adjustable snow chute

What We Don’t Like

• Plastic blade can chip on hard gravel or debris

Specs

• Type Cordless electric
• Weight 37.5 pounds
• Clearing width 18 inches

This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.

Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.

This battery-powered snow blower from Snow Joe is made to rival the power of a standard two-stage snow blower. Equipped with two rechargeable 24-volt (V) batteries, it offers up to 80 minutes of runtime and can throw up to 10 tons of snow per charge. Its 18-inch auger is rubber tipped, can cut a 10-inch-deep path, and works noticeably faster than other models. In some instances, it also threw snow farther than the 20-foot mark claimed by the manufacturer.

We chose this Snow Joe cordless snow blower as the best electric snow blower because it’s very functional, moderately priced, and a solid, consistent performer in a variety of conditions. At a relatively light weight of 37.5 pounds, it’s plenty easy to push around and manage. It also has a nice set of LED headlights to increase visibility in dark conditions. 

Shoppers seeking an economical single-stage snow blower with plenty of power, simple operational features, and great performance won’t be disappointed.

What our tester says: “We were so impressed by how quickly the batteries on this Snow Joe charged. But they also lasted long enough for us to make it through full snow-clearing sessions during testing, which is a big part of why this model was a clear favorite.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Snow Joe 24V-X2-SB18 48V Ionmax Snow Blower

Get the Snow Joe single-stage snow blower at Amazon (with cover and scraper), Walmart, Best Buy, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Best Overall Gas

Troy-Bilt Squall 208E 21" Snow Blower

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What We Like

• Easy to start, runs efficiently, and is impressively quiet
• Auger throws snow with remarkable force
• Fairly affordable for a high-quality gas-powered snow blower

What We Don’t Like

• Wheels may be too small for deep snow

Specs

• Type Gas
• Weight 100 pounds
• Clearing width 21 inches

The Squall is a smooth-running unit with an efficient 208 cubic centimeter (cc) 4-stroke engine, meaning it doesn’t require users to mix oil and gas as with a 2-stroke machine. Its user-friendly design features an easily accessible gas-fill neck and an oil fill that doesn’t require any manipulation of the machine or leveling. The unit’s electric start performed flawlessly, repeatedly firing up on the first push.

During testing, we really appreciated how quiet the engine ran and how easy it was to push this snow blower around, especially considering how loud and heavy gas models can be. We were impressed with the auger’s ability to virtually vacuum up snow before projecting it through the chute at high speeds. While its standard-size half-gallon fuel tank may seem small, the machine’s efficiency allowed us to clear multiple properties without needing to refill. The 100-pound machine pushed along easily, even though its wheels are smaller than is ideal for deep snow. Overall, however, this gas snow blower is perfect for moderate storms and snow loads under 12 inches. 

What our tester says: “We tested several gas models that performed exceptionally well, so assigning this award wasn’t easy. Ultimately, the Troy-Bilt Squall took the top prize, but we think shoppers will also want to take a hard look at the Toro self-propelled model. Both snow blower brands excel in the gas snow blower design with reliable engines and smooth functionality.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Troy-Bilt single-stage snow blower at The Home Depot, Walmart, or Northern Tool + Equipment. 

Best Bang For The Buck

Greenworks 13-Amp 20" Corded Snow Thrower

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What We Like

• Clears a 20-inch swath of snow with each pass
• Discharge chute throws snow up to 20 feet
• Rubber auger blades don’t damage pavement
• Attractive and affordable price point

What We Don’t Like

• Corded operation can be inconvenient
• Requires an extension cord, which is not included

Specs

• Type Corded electric
• Weight 32 pounds
• Clearing width 20 inches

At just 32 pounds, this corded electric Greenworks 20-inch snow thrower is almost a mini snow blower, yet our tests proved it’s powerful enough for clearing snow up to 12 inches deep on small driveways, walkways, and decks. Though the manufacturer doesn’t advise operating it in heavy snow, we did try to tackle some deeper snow and found the ramping-up technique quite effective. The unit put out consistent power without requiring us to stop and recharge a battery. Of course, that meant we always had to be within access to an outlet, which generally involved using an outdoor-rated extension cord we had on hand.

While this model does have a clip that helps secure its cord to prevent it from accidentally unplugging, it was sometimes still challenging to wrangle the long cord in areas with multiple obstacles. Still, there’s a lot to like about using this unit to remove snow: its push-button start is convenient, and controlling the chute is simple via a lever located just below the handle. Although our model did not include LED lights, Greenworks makes a version with the option, which would make nighttime snow removal much easier.

Get the Greenworks 20-inch single-stage snow blower at Walmart.

Upgrade Pick

Ego Power+ Peak Power 21" Snow Blower

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What We Don’t Like

• Large wheels make it easy to push
• Throws snow up to 40 feet for clearing large driveways
• Handles can fold for easy storage
• Extended battery life provides plenty of working time

What We Like

• Can be challenging to push up hills

Specs

• Type Cordless electric
• Weight 50.6 pounds
• Clearing width 21 inches

For those looking to invest in a machine with some unique features, the Ego Power+ cordless snow blower could be just the ticket. This model can throw snow up to 40 feet, far exceeding many single-stage units. That impressive distance, along with the adjustable discharge chute and steel auger, makes plowing large snow piles easy—even in icy conditions.

This Ego snow blower features a 21-inch capacity, which is a bit larger than most comparable models. It comes with two 56-volt 5.0 amp hour (Ah) batteries that can power the brushless motor long enough to clear snow off a 12-car driveway. The adjustable throttle also allows the user to regulate the power and battery as needed. This unit even has a folding handle with quick-release levers that make it easy to store. The only downside to this Ego is that it is on the heavier side, but the extended battery life is definitely a plus that cannot be ignored. 

What our tester says: “During testing, this model performed exceedingly well. It was easy to operate and push, even over less-than-smooth terrain. We also enjoyed the folding handle with quick-release levers, as it made storing this model a breeze.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Read our full review: Ego Power+ Peak Power 21″ Snow Blower

Get the Ego Power+ single-stage snow blower at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Walmart.

Best Light-Duty

Wen 5664 Snow Blaster 18" Electric Snow Thrower

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What We Like

• Lightweight, portable snow blower
• 13.5-amp motor clears snow up to 7.8 inches deep
• Can move up to 490 pounds of snow per minute

What We Don’t Like

• Requires some assembly and an extension cord
• Not designed for deep snow removal

Specs

• Type Corded electric
• Weight 32 pounds
• Clearing width 18 inches

This 13.5-amp electric blower by Wen is a lightweight, 32-pound machine designed for use in small areas. It can clear an 18-inch swath of light to medium snow accumulation up to 7.8 inches deep and features a 180-degree rotating chute that’s easy to adjust with minimal effort. Despite its compact and simple design, we found it to be a powerful and effective tool for removing light snowfall as well as wet snow (if we gave it a little extra push). 

This Wen requires a cord to function, so it’s best in areas with convenient access to electricity—we found it most useful on our front steps and deck. The plastic auger worked surprisingly fast, and the throwing distance was more than ample for those spaces. We also liked that this unit has a folding handle that makes it easy to transport and store. 

Get the Wen single-stage snow blower at Amazon or Wen.

Best Medium-Duty

DeWalt 21" 60V MAX Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit

See It

What We Like

• Impressive 21-inch clearing path
• Steel auger is tough enough for hard, icy snow
• Electric controls enable quick throwing-direction changes

What We Don’t Like

• Auger angle control requires manual adjustment

Specs

• Type Cordless electric
• Weight 59 pounds
• Clearing width 21 inches

With this medium-duty model, DeWalt introduces some great features into the electric snow blower market. It’s one of the few single-stage options available that has a steel auger, making it great for chopping through ice and wet snow. It also offers an impressive 21-inch width so users can process more snow in less time, and its batteries provide about 40 minutes of continuous runtime. 

During testing, the DeWalt worked through light snow with no resistance, and once conditions iced up, it continued to do really well. We had to use a bit more effort as the snow got heavier, but the auger was more than capable and still threw snow reasonably far. We were also impressed by how easy it was to change throwing directions via this machine’s electric tab-style buttons. If you need a snow blower that’s a bit more powerful than a light-duty model but not as heavy-duty as a two-stage machine, the DeWalt is a great choice.

Get the DeWalt single-stage snow blower at Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware or The Home Depot.

Best Heavy-Duty

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Whisper Snow Blower

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What We Like

• 21-inch clearing width and 13-inch clearing depth
• Variable-speed auger throws snow more than 35 feet
• Whisper-quiet operation and LED light bar
• Handle-mount controls are comfortable and easy to use

What We Don’t Like

• Not a self-propelled option
• Plastic tires aren’t as durable as rubber ones

Specs

• Type Cordless electric
• Weight 52 pounds
• Clearing width 21 inches

With its multiple batteries and 40 minutes of runtime, this Ryobi snow blower boasts plenty of long-lasting power and excellent snow-blowing capabilities. The 40V brushless single-stage unit comes with a push-button start, a variable-speed rubber-metal auger (the center shaft of the auger is metal while the blades are rubber), and handle-mount control for an overall ergonomic design. 

This Ryobi has a 21-inch clearing width, a 13-inch clearing depth, and a 1.4-watt LED light bar. It comes with dual 7.5Ah batteries as well as a charger. Want more? It also has whisper-quiet operation (purportedly 84 percent quieter than other snow blowers) and launches snow over 35 feet. 

During testing in a huge storm event in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this model really stood out. The batteries charged quickly, and it was capable of churning through heavy snow with minimal force. The charging port does only accept one battery at a time, but for most users, this is still a high-performance machine that will get the job done.

Get the Ryobi single-stage snow blower at The Home Depot. 

Best Self-Propelled

Toro Power Clear 721 E 21" Gas Snow Blower

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What We Like

• Self-propelled 212cc 4-cycle overhead valve engine
• Throws snow up to 35 feet
• 210-degree chute features a locking deflector
• Folds for compact storage

What We Don’t Like

• For use on paved surfaces only
• Heavy compared to similar models

Specs

• Type Gas
• Weight 84 pounds
• Clearing width 21 inches

Those wanting to quickly remove snow without having to push a heavy snow-removal tool can rely on the Toro Power Clear 721 E. This self-propelled snow blower has an electric start and comes with Curve Technology that easily shreds through snow. Its auger is durable and strong, making this unit a candidate for pushing the limits of single-stage capabilities. The locking deflector on the 210-degree chute allows users to direct where the snow goes after it has been picked up. 

This Toro nearly snagged the best overall gas model, and it’s certainly one of the best and most powerful single-stage snow blowers we tested. The gas motor is powerful, efficient, and even relatively quiet. Though it’s not on par with electric models for reduced noise, the trade-off is that users won’t even need to wait for this machine to recharge. The fact that the Toro is self-propelled is a major bonus, as this will save users the effort of pushing through difficult snow. The only downside is that changing chute angles and throwing directions is done manually. It’s a quick process, but there are no controls within reach of the handle area. 

Get the Toro 721 E single-stage snow blower at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Best Battery Life

Greenworks 60V 22" Single-Stage Snow Blower

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What We Like

• 2 powerful 5.0Ah batteries and a dual port charger
• Runs for up to 60 minutes; recharges in about 45
• Folding handle enables easy transport and storage
• LED headlights enhance visibility during heavy storms

What We Don’t Like

• Not self-propelled

Specs

• Type Cordless electric
• Weight 65.5 pounds
• Clearing width 22 inches

While battery-powered tools offer the convenience of cordless operation and minimal maintenance requirements, the compromise in power and runtime can make them impractical. Not so with this snow blower from Greenworks. The 60-volt, 22-inch model doesn’t look especially beefy, but its two 5.0Ah batteries really pack a punch. They deliver exceptional power and longer runtimes so users can work up to an hour to get big jobs done.

It’s hard to overstate the benefits of more battery power. We found the battery life to be a huge bonus during bigger storms and when the neighbors needed a hand with snow removal. The dual charging port also offers simultaneous or alternate charging for near-continuous use. 

Outside of the batteries, this unit also performed as well as any of those tested. It has great auger speed and throwing distance as it zipped right along, clearing a wide 22-inch path. It’s not self-propelled, but otherwise, we had zero complaints about the quality of this machine.

Get the Greenworks 22-inch single-stage snow blower at Tractor Supply Co. or Walmart. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Single-Stage Snow Blowers

We tested a range of electric and gas single-stage snow blowers in a series of Montana and Sierra Nevada storms. We evaluated each unit’s ease of assembly and functionality on concrete as well as light gravel, if applicable. We looked at overall performance, auger quality and speed, snow-throwing distance, battery life, and build quality. 

Since the storms during our tests delivered everything from a few inches of powder to a foot of heavy snow alongside temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit, we got a great idea of how well these machines’ batteries and gas motors could hold up in difficult conditions. After rating each unit based on the above factors, we assigned awards to worthy models. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Single-Stage Snow Blower

According to Wes Bollingmo, Channel & Product Support Manager at Toro, one of the most important things to consider when choosing a snow blower is its type, and that doesn’t mean gas or electric. Wes says, “While fuel types do matter in the buying process, it’s much more important to ensure you have the proper type of snow blower: single-stage, in-line two-stage, or two-stage.” After that, you can look into things like power source, clearing width and depth, ease of use, and additional features.

Type/Power Source

The best snow blowers come in corded electric, battery-powered, and gas-powered varieties. 

• Electric snow blowers are typically designed to clear light snow up to about 8 inches deep. They must be plugged into an outlet with an extension cord, limiting their performance slightly and making them best for minimal snowfall levels and relatively short sidewalks and driveways. Since they’re lightweight enough to lift and move, they’re also handy for clearing snow from decks and steps.
• Cordless snow blowers are convenient battery-powered machines ideal for light to medium snowfall and spaces that can be cleared in 30 to 40 minutes. To extend this runtime, some models come with a spare battery that users can swap in if needed. Generally speaking, single-stage cordless models are lighter and more compact than gas units. 
• Gas-powered snow blowers boast more power than electric and battery blowers and don’t restrict their operators to the length of an extension cord. They can clear away deep and heavy snow all along the driveway and then continue down the sidewalk and clear the neighbor’s drive as well. They’re generally more expensive and louder tools and also require more snow blower maintenance to stay operational across seasons.

Toro’s Wes Bollingmo does point out, however, that the power difference between gas and electric machines is becoming less substantial over time. “Thanks to recent technological advances, today’s battery-powered snow blowers offer performance comparable to gas models, making fuel type less of a deciding factor than in years past,” he says. Still, since power source can impact ease of use, it remains a relevant consideration.  

Weight

Weight plays a significant role in how easy it is to push or turn a snow blower. Though a large snow blower can clear a driveway in fewer passes than a small snow blower, bigger machines are harder to maneuver.

Most single-stage gas snow blowers weigh at least 80 to 100 pounds, while corded and cordless blowers weigh closer to 30 to 60 pounds. Those needing something lighter may want to consider a handheld snow blower, snow thrower, or electric shovel snow blower. 

Clearing Width and Depth

Before choosing the best single-stage snow blower, it’s important to consider the width and depth of snow the machine can clear with each pass. Most single-stage machines can clear paths between 15 and 22 inches wide—and the wider the path, the faster you’re finished. 

Intake height determines the depth of snow each tool can remove with each pass, and most single-stage snow blowers have an intake depth between 7 and 12 inches. A good rule of thumb is to choose a snow blower with an intake depth 2 inches higher than your area’s average snowfall. 

Wheels, Tracks, and Terrain Type

Wheeled snow blowers feature two large rear wheels that drive the machine forward, while tracked models have tracks similar to those found on a military tank. 

• Tracked snow blowers provide significantly better traction in the snow, making them better able to climb steep slopes without slipping backward. Most tracked models are two- or three-stage snow blowers, as single-stage models typically don’t produce enough power to drive the tracks. They also operate more closely to the surface, leaving a thinner layer of snow and ice on a driveway or sidewalk than wheeled models. 
• Wheeled snow blowers are easier to turn since tracked models don’t pivot. Wheel sizes for single-stage snow blowers range from 6 to 8 inches. Larger wheels perform better in deeper snow, while smaller wheels are easier to maneuver. While wheeled blowers are generally faster than tracked models, some higher-end tracked blowers offer faster speed and turn-on-a-dime technology that makes them comparable in speed and maneuverability. 

Terrain type will influence which of these design options is best for a specific user. Paved surfaces, such as driveways and sidewalks, are best suited for wheeled snow blowers. Tracked snow blowers are better suited for unpaved surfaces. Grade also has a significant impact; steep driveways require a snow blower with good traction and enough power to pull it up a snow-covered slope.

Speed Control

Speed control in a snow blower can refer to both the speed at which you can move the machine as well as the speed of the auger. Gas snow blowers can be quite heavy, so many shoppers prefer self-propelled models to make pushing them faster and easier. Battery-powered blowers are generally lighter and feature digital drive systems that help optimize output without unnecessary effort.

Blowers with variable-speed augers can be useful for adapting to different types of snow. If the snowfall is nice and light, increasing the speed at which the snow is scooped and thrown through the chute will make it easier to move the machine. For heavy, packed snow, you will need to slow the blower to give the machine time to discharge it without clogging. 

Chute Control

The chute, a curved, hollow tube that extends from the back of the intake on a snow blower, provides a route for the snow to be thrown from the machine. On most blowers, a manual crank or lever lets users change the angle and direction of the snow being displaced. 

Premium snow blowers, however, have auto-rotating chutes that users turn by pushing a button near the handle, which doesn’t require the machine to be stopped. The angle on some chutes also can be changed to allow the snow blower to throw snow even further.

Additional Features

Single-stage snow blowers often boast some extra features to improve ease of use. 

• Electric start is a useful feature for gas snow blowers. This typically involves a push-button ignition that replaces the standard pull start and choke.
• Heated handles may seem luxurious, but personal safety is an important part of working outdoors in freezing temperatures. The heat generated by the handles helps keep the user’s fingers warm in the cold air and makes it easier to hold and control the snow blower.
• Drift cutters help clear deep drifts of snow. The cutter’s metal housing collects and pushes snow down into the auger for removal.
• Headlights make it easier and safer to clear snow at night or in dim lighting.
• Automatic safety shutoffs turn off the snow blower when the user releases the handle.

We asked Corey Welch, founder and CEO of Mow & Snow, an on-demand snow removal and lawn care company in Canada, which of these features he appreciates most on a snow blower. He said, “Headlights are a game-changer for early mornings or late evenings, and heated handles are a luxury that keeps your hands from freezing during long jobs.” Anyone looking to increase comfort and ease of use will want to look for a model with these features.

FAQs 

If you still have questions about single-stage snow blowers, we suggest you refer to the answers to common FAQs below before putting on your work boots and heading outside. 

Meet the Testers

Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance. His home base in Montana is the perfect testing grounds for winter products and snow equipment. With over a decade of professional writing experience, he also covers a variety of other projects and maintenance topics for Bobvila.com.

Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He also owns and operates a pest control blog called RiddaBugs.com.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.

The post We Tested 2025’s Best Single-Stage Snow Blowers and Found 9 Top Models You Can Rely On appeared first on Bob Vila.

One of the risks that accompanies any hobby is the temptation to buy shiny new gear, and with wood carving, that means knives. I started whittling with a cheap pocket knife when I was 10 years old. That knife was sufficient for turning big sticks into little sticks, but as my skills improved, I learned about real wood carving knives, with their small fixed blades and large comfortable handles. Trying one for the first time was a revelation. My hands didn’t hurt after 20 minutes and I was able to add details that were previously almost impossible. 

Flexcut has spent the past few years designing its Pro Series of wood carving knives that fed my temptation by promising even better control, precision, and comfort. I got the 3-piece Pro Set that includes a 1 ⅝-inch carving knife, 1 ⅜-inch detail knife, and 1-inch chip carving knife. I’ve been using them for a couple of months now, and while I’m not ready to give up my old whittling knives, I really like the new features.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Flexcut Pro Series 3-Piece Pro Set

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Pro Series knives use the same durable heat treated 1095 spring steel blade material that the brand has been using for years, but with a true flat grind blade and an open space between the heel of the blade and the choil. No need to break out the knife sharpener. These were razor sharp, mirror polished, and ready to work right out of the package. The steel held its edge in all types of wood like earlier models, but the redesign makes the blades lighter without sacrificing strength, and they were easier to strop than traditional Scandi-ground blades. 

The handles got a makeover too. The unvarnished cherrywood handles are straighter at the butt and feature flat sidewalls, subtly angled corners,  and a slight downward curve toward the blade spine. They feel good. I don’t miss the tapered and curved butt end on older models, and my big hands don’t tire or get sore after a couple of hours whittling hardwood.

Flexcut Pro knives are really great, but sometimes I prefer working with a narrower point or a curved edge, neither of which is available in the Pro Series, and let’s face it, old habits are hard to break. For no-particular-reason I sometimes feel like using a particular knife, even though it may not be technically the “best” tool for the job. I am happily adding the Pro Series into my whittling rotation, and I know I’ll use them often. Time will tell if one of them becomes my next habit.

Where to Buy the Flexcut Pro Series Carving Knives

Get the Flexcut Pro Series 3-Piece Pro Set at:

• Amazon
• Woodcraft
• Treeline USA
• Mountain Woodcarvers

The post These New Carving Knives Have Earned a Spot in My Arsenal of Tools appeared first on Bob Vila.

Whether you’re painting the living room or a patio table, applying a prep coat of primer to the surface can improve adherence, prevent peeling, and reduce the number of coats needed to finish the job. While all primers contain more resins and less pigment than paint, formulas vary from product to product. We tested some of the most popular options to find out which primer works best for different situations. Our number one pick is Rust-Oleum’s Zinsser Bulls Eye with its low odor and ability to work on multiple surfaces.

The right primer for your project depends on the environment you’ll be working in, the surface you’ll be painting, and your preferences for the time frame of the job and its final look. Read on to find out what makes a quality paint primer and why the below options rank as our top favorites among the best paint primers we tested.

1. BEST OVERALL: Rust-Oleum Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Base Primer
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Kilz Original Interior Primer
3. BEST ALL-PURPOSE: Kilz 2 All-Purpose Interior/Exterior Primer
4. BEST FOR METAL: Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer
5. BEST FOR GLOSSY SURFACES: Kilz Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer
6. BEST FOR ODOR BLOCKING: Kilz Restoration Interior Primer
7. BEST FOR EXTERIOR: Kilz 3 Premium Interior/Exterior Primer
8. BEST FOR INTERIOR WALLS: Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

We spent hours narrowing the paint primer market and testing the top-rated products. One or more of these recommendations for the best paint primer may suit your specific needs.

Best Overall

Rust-Oleum Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Base Primer

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What We Like

• Low-VOC and low-odor formula
• Mold- and mildew-resistant
• Works on multiple surface types

What We Don’t Like

• Thin viscosity; second coat may be required for proper coverage

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Both
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Water-based acrylic

Rust-Oleum is well known for its protective paints and coatings. Its Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 water-base primer is an all-purpose primer-sealer that sticks to various surfaces without sanding and works with any top coat. The brand is regarded as one of the top producers of rust-preventive paints.

The primer is low odor, low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and provides excellent coverage on interior and exterior surfaces. It’s made from water-based acrylic and is designed to resist blistering, peeling, and mold and mildew growth. The primer is tintable and available in white or gray. It’s also available in spray-paint form.

We tested this primer on multiple surfaces, including drywall, wood, metal, and plastic. It readily stuck to all of those surfaces and provided a textured finished surface that easily held onto a top coat of paint. The primer did not completely block the water stain on drywall, but we expected that—most white primers do not. We thought the paint was thin and needed two coats on all surfaces to ensure an even, smooth top coat. Overall, we liked this primer’s versatility of use on multiple surfaces, making it our top choice.

Get the Rust-Oleum Zinsser paint primer at Amazon or Ace Hardware.

Best Bang for the Buck

Kilz Original Interior Primer

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What We Like

• Effectively blocks stains and odors
• Applies smoothly and evenly
• Lower-VOC formula

What We Don’t Like

• Strong odor

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Interior
• Recoat time: 2 hours or less
• Base material: Oil

Kilz is a trusted paint brand, especially for primers. Kilz Original interior primer is the company’s flagship primer designed to block most heavy interior stains on wood, drywall, plaster, paneling, wallpaper, masonry, brick, and painted metal. It also works on properly prepared glossy surfaces.

The primer is oil-based but can be used as a base coat for latex and oil paints. Kilz is our go-to primer for tough stains in our household. Previously, we had only used the spray-can version but found that the can version works just as well. We tested the primer on water stains on our drywall and as a base coat on various materials, including wood, brick, and metal. The primer adhered well to porous surfaces, but we did need to sand the metal before priming.

The white primer paint did a decent job blocking light-colored stains. However, in our experience with trying to hide stubborn stains on drywall, the primer works best at hiding stains when tinted gray.

Although it is available in a lower-VOC formula, it is not low VOC and the odor was strong. We recommend using a respirator or working in a well-ventilated area when using this primer. Overall, Kilz Original is a solid performer, and we highly recommend it for any ventilated interior primer application.

Get the Kilz Original paint primer at Ace Hardware.

Best All-Purpose

Kilz 2 All-Purpose Interior/Exterior Primer

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What We Like

• Minimal odor
• Mildew-resistant finish
• Easy soap-and-water cleanup
• Low-VOC formula

What We Don’t Like

• Only blocks light to medium stains

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Both
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Water

Kilz 2 all-purpose interior/exterior primer is a general-purpose primer well suited for use on various DIY projects. This water-based primer has a drastically lower VOC content than the Original Kilz Primer, and it works under or over water-based or oil-based paints. It blocks light to medium stains and mild odors, and it leaves a mildew-resistant finish.

Kilz 2 all-purpose primer works well for general-purpose priming and sealing needs. In testing, it left a smooth base coat on drywall and bare wood. It did a moderate job blocking dark stains on walls, but it effectively blocked lighter stains like pencil marks, minor scuffs, and markers. We recommend using Kilz 2 for priming old walls before repainting or for any exterior surface as a base coat for exterior paint. It’s also handy to use a primer for craft painting projects.

Get the Kilz 2 paint primer at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot. 

Best for Metal

Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer

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What We Like

• Prevents rust from growing in some areas
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
• Weather- and corrosion-resistant

What We Don’t Like

• Metal surfaces should be sanded beforehand

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Both
• Recoat time: 24 hours
• Base material: Oil

Rust-Oleum Clean Metal primer is formulated to cover lightly rusted metals as well as bare and previously painted metals. It’s weather- and corrosion-resistant and bonds tightly to exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, and masonry.

This primer is designed primarily for use on metal, but it works well on other surfaces. It did a good job blocking rust stains on a metal bench we refinished, and it provided a smooth surface for a top coat. The only real drawback of this primer was that the smooth surfaces required prep work before use—smooth, hard, or glossy finishes need sanding for the primer to adhere. However, after applying onto sanded metal, it did form a durable finish, and the top coat went on beautifully.

Get the Rust-Oleum metal paint primer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Best for Glossy Surfaces

Kilz Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer

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What We Like

• Bonds to glossy surfaces without sanding
• Can be used on products containing xylene or other solvents
• Easy soap-and-water cleanup after use

What We Don’t Like

• Not for wet floors or horizontal surfaces

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Both
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Water

Kilz Adhesion interior/exterior primer is formulated to bond to various tough-to-paint surfaces such as PVC, vinyl, glass, tile, and glazed brick. The water-based primer offers the same stain- and odor-blocking properties as the other Kilz primers. Unlike the other primers in the Kilz line, Adhesion does not require sanding a glossy surface before primer application.

Since this primer is virtually identical in its stain and odor properties to the others in the Kilz lines, we primarily tested its ability to stick to slick surfaces. We applied the primer to plastic, metals, and glazed ceramic. We did not sand the surface before application. It did adhere to the surfaces pretty well, but we did find that applying the primer in thin, multiple layers produced better results. Although it took at least two coats, we prefer to paint two coats rather than sanding the entire surface first.

Get the Kilz Adhesion paint primer at Amazon.

Best for Odor Blocking

Kilz Restoration Interior Primer

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What We Like

• Minimal odor and low-VOC formula
• Easy soap-and-water cleanup
• Provides a smooth finish

What We Don’t Like

• Does not block or cover heavy or prominent stains

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Interior
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Water

Water, mold, and rust stains are tough to cover, but odors are even harder to conceal. Smoke, pet urine, and food odors often require using an oil-based or shellac-based primer to seal them into the surface before painting. However, Kilz Restoration interior primer offers the same performance as oil-based primers but with the easy cleanup convenience of water-based paint.

Like the other primers offered by Kilz, this primer did an adequate job of covering most light to medium stains. However, Kilz Restoration shines as an odor blocker. We tested this primer drywall in a room where smokers previously resided. The primer went on smoothly and sealed in the odor. Once the top coat was applied, there was no hint of the smell. It did a moderate job concealing old water stains, but we expected that.

Since this primer is mainly formulated for odor blocking, we suggest only using this primer for that purpose. Kilz Original primer is a better stain blocker.

Get the Kilz Restoration paint primer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Best for Exterior

Kilz 3 Premium Interior/Exterior Primer

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What We Like

• Blocks most medium to heavy stains
• No-VOC formula
• Great in moisture-prone areas

What We Don’t Like

• Not meant for applying to glossy surfaces

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Both
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Latex

Kilz 3 Premium interior/exterior primer is formulated to minimize problems caused by color changes, minor stains, surface textures, and porosity differences. This primer offers excellent adhesion, a mildew-resistant coating, and seals interior and exterior surfaces for a uniform finish.

In testing, we found that this primer did an excellent job sealing new wood framing on our covered deck. It left an ultrasmooth finish, and the top coat went on smoothly. The primed and painted wood has been through a few rainstorms and high humidity conditions for a few weeks, and the surface still looks amazing.

As a stain blocker, it did a decent job covering up an older painted surface with minor mold and dirt discoloration. The only con we found with this primer was that it’s not made to adhere to glossy surfaces without preparation. However, it’s an excellent primer for exterior use because it sticks readily to plaster, paneling, masonry, brick, and painted metal without issue.

Get the Kilz 3 Premium paint primer at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Best for Interior Walls

Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex

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What We Like

• Thick paint goes on smoothly
• Can also be used on ceilings
• Tintable in Sherwin-Williams’ full color options
• Low-VOC formula

What We Don’t Like

• Expensive compared to similar options

Product Specs 

• Interior/exterior: Interior
• Recoat time: 1 hour
• Base material: Latex

Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint is the brand’s paint-and-primer combo available in interior and exterior formulations. The interior version is designed for one coat coverage on drywall, trim, and ceilings. SuperPaint creates a lasting finish and a surface that holds up to scrubbing.

We have used SuperPaint as our primary wall paint for years. It’s thicker than most interior paints, which allows it to cover in fewer coats than cheaper paints. The flat finish is perfect for ceilings, too. We could achieve solid coverage on walls in two coats, even over darker paint. Although we were able to cover a similar color wall in one coat in the past, we think it looks better with two coats of paint. The only con we have with this paint is that it’s expensive. However, Sherwin-Williams often offers promos that can help offset the cost.

Get the Sherwin-Williams paint primer at Sherwin-Williams.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Paint Primers

We tested each paint primer according to established rubrics, including how easy it was to apply, how well it adhered to various surfaces, and its stain- and odor-blocking abilities. We rated each primer based on these rubrics on a scale between 0 and 4 to determine a score. Lastly, we tested the primer’s durability and how attractive the final finish appeared on each surface.

We applied each primer to metal, masonry, drywall, and wood surfaces. The drywall surfaces included water stains, mildew, and lingering smoke odors. We applied two coats of primer to each surface and allowed it to dry for an hour, and then followed up with a flat white top coat to determine if there was any bleedthrough of stains and to judge the smoothness of the top coat.

What to Consider When Choosing a Paint Primer

When choosing a primer for your project, there are several features to consider. The best paint primer options efficiently cover multiple surfaces, block stains, and ensure an even, smooth top coat. Here are more details about important features to consider when choosing a paint primer.

Project Environment

Paint primers come in three formulas: interior/exterior, exterior, and interior.

Interior/exterior primers are suited for indoor and outdoor use, while exterior primers are designed for outdoor use only. Both contain additives that stave off UV-related fading and moisture-related mold issues; they also add flexibility to withstand frequent outdoor temperature changes, preventing the paint from peeling or cracking.

Interior primers, formulated without exterior additives, are only suitable for indoor use. Interior/exterior primer is the best bet for doing a range of painting jobs, indoors and out. Plus, choosing a primer that works inside and outside saves on the costs of buying separate interior and exterior products.

Surface

Each type of primer may adhere better to different surfaces. The following details the best primer type for common household surfaces:

• Bare wood: Apply an oil-based or latex primer to wood that has never been stained or painted to help seal the porous surface. Keep in mind that oil-based primers tend to emit more VOCs (smelly pollutants) than do latex primers.
• Drywall: Apply a latex primer to drywall, as an oil-based primer can raise the grain and make the surface look uneven.
• Stain-prone surfaces: Use a stain-blocking primer on stained wood, bare wood with high tannin content that can bleed out (e.g., cedar or redwood), interior walls with water or smoke stains, or cabinets/trim with grease stains. It will cover stains and keep them from bleeding into and discoloring top coats.
  • Choose latex stain-blocking primer if the stains are solvent-based (e.g., crayons or grease).
  • Choose an oil-based stain-blocking primer if the stain is water-based (e.g., water-based wood stain, smoke, or tannin).
• Painted wood: An oil-based primer is usually best for painted wood that shows chalking (a chalky powder on the surface as the paint binder degrades) or chipping; it will dry into a denser, smoother foundation to minimize these imperfections.
• Metal: Choose a rust-resistant oil-based primer on metals such as aluminum to avoid the formation of rust, which the water in latex primer can promote.
• Glossy surfaces: Bonding primer, formulated to stick to glossy surfaces, is a must for the slick likes of glass, plastic, or glazed tile.

Dedicated Primer vs. Paint-and-Primer in One

Self-priming paints—also known as paint-and-primer combo products—let users prime and paint a surface in a single step. But these two-in-one products are only recommended if all of the following are true:

• You’re not painting bare or stained wood.
• Your painting surface has no stains or signs of peeling.
• You’re repainting a previously painted surface in the same color or going from a lighter to a darker paint color.

Choose separate paint and primer to improve paint adhesion in the following situations:

• You’re painting bare or stained wood.
• You’re painting over a surface that has stains or is peeling.
• You’re switching from a darker to a lighter paint color.
• You want to use a paint with a different base than that of the primer. For example, use an oil-based primer with a latex paint to take advantage of the rot resistance of the oil primer and the lower VOCs and faster drying of the latex paint.
• You want to cover an old oil-based paint coat with a latex paint coat. An intervening layer of a dedicated primer is needed for optimal adhesion of the latex paint.

Tintability

Primer usually comes in white or gray. Use either color as is without tinting it or have the primer tinted to a hue that’s slightly lighter than the top coat. Tinting primer, which requires buying a primer labeled “tintable,” generally achieves a deeper, richer, and more uniform final color but is particularly recommended in the following situations:

• You’re changing the color from darker to lighter. The tinted primer reduces the number of paint coats needed to hide the darker base coat.
• For stubborn stains, like water or mildew, a tinted primer is necessary to block the stain effectively from bleeding through, especially when there is a light-color top coat.
• You’re changing from a lighter to a dramatically darker color, e.g., light blue to black. The tinted primer ensures that even if the top coat is uneven, no patches of white or gray primer will show through it.

Dry Time

Pay attention to the “dry-to-recoat” time specified on the primer packaging—an indication of when the primer is dry enough to be recoated either with another coat of primer or with paint. In general, latex primers have a shorter dry-to-recoat time of no more than 1 hour, whereas oil-based primers need 1 to 3 hours before they can be recoated.

FAQs

Meet the Tester

Debbie Wolfe is a photographer, author, and freelance writer in various niches. She has contributed hundreds of home, garden, and crafting articles and DIY tutorials for leading media outlets and retailers, including HGTV, Real Simple, Forbes Advisor, The Spruce, The Home Depot, Walmart, and Mother Earth News. She is the author of two DIY books: Do-It-Yourself Garden Projects and Crafts and Crafting with Herbs from Skyhorse Publishing. Her testing approach is straightforward and budget-minded.

Additional research provided by Manasa Reddigari.

The post 8 ​​Paint Primers That Provide a Blank Slate For Painting appeared first on Bob Vila.

High-quality oil for snow blowers helps keep your gas snow blower in peak condition, making starting and running it easier and smoother so you can clear wet winter weather quickly. However, knowing which oil type is best for your machine can be a challenge, so we researched dozens of popular snow blower lubricant options and reached out to an expert for their insights on choosing the right one. 

Based on our efforts, we learned that the best-performing oil should flow easily through a snow blower engine, even in the coldest temperatures, without leaving deposits and grime. That’s why we chose the Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil as our top pick: This synthetic engine oil offers excellent performance in extreme cold and washes away dirt as it flows through, helping extend the life of snow-blowing tools season after season. 

Read on to learn more about the features that make a motor or car oil appropriate for a snow blower, and see the rest of the best oils for snow blowers on the market today. 

1. BEST OVERALL: Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
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2. RUNNER-UP: Briggs & Stratton 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil
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4. BEST FOR SMALL ENGINES: Briggs & Stratton 5W-30 Low-Temp Small Engine Oil
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5. BEST FOR 2-CYCLE ENGINES: Klotz TechniPlate 2-Stroke Snowmobile Oil
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6. MOST VERSATILE: Castrol GTX High-Mileage 5W-30 Motor Oil
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Best Oils for Snow Blowers Comparison Chart 

Our Top Picks

Our top picks feature oils specially formulated for cold weather, and many also have additives that help keep snow blower engines free of harmful dirt and deposits. Any of the following recommended products will help keep your snow blower running smoothly.

Best Overall

Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil

See It

What We Like

• Suitable for snow blowers and car engines
• 5-quart size has 2 handles for controlled pouring 
• Protects for long periods of time

What We Don’t Like

• Oil losses can occur with intense friction

Specs

• Volume: 1 quart (other sizes available)
• Configuration: 5W-30
• Type: Synthetic

Seasonal machines, such as snow blowers, often sit idle for months before they are needed, which allows time for impurities and gunk to build up. However, Pennzoil’s Platinum motor oil washes dirt and deposits out of the engine as it passes through, helping to extend the life of the machine while ensuring it starts when the next snowfall arrives. As a fully synthetic clear 5W-30 oil made from natural gas, this pick can keep your snow blower engine up to 45 percent cleaner than standard oils. 

Pennzoil Platinum comes in 1-quart, 5-quart, and 55-gallon bottles, and buying a larger volume might be smart since it also works in car engines. Another thing we really like about this product is the 5-quart bottle has handles on both the top and the side, making it much easier to pour without making a mess.

Get the Pennzoil oil for snow blowers at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Runner-up

Briggs & Stratton Synthetic Small Engine Motor Oil

See It

What We Like

• Helps maintain a clean engine
• Suitable for use in other garden equipment
• Enables a smoother snow blower start

What We Don’t Like

• More expensive than similar options

Specs

• Volume: 1 quart
• Configuration: 5W-30
• Type: Synthetic

This Briggs & Stratton 5W-30 small engine oil is well suited to snow blowers—its use makes starting engines in cold temperatures easier while also minimizing oil consumption. As a synthetic oil, it lasts longer (up to 5,000 hours in a snow blower) and stays thinner at lower temperatures than conventional oils. 

With a high-temperature viscosity rating of 30, this oil is also a good option for other 4-cycle small engines that operate in hot temperatures, including lawn mowers. The 1-quart bottle has convenient measurements on the side that allow the user to see exactly how much snow blower oil is left. 

Get the Briggs & Stratton synthetic oil for snow blowers at Amazon (2-pack), Walmart, or Briggs & Stratton.

Best Bang for the Buck

Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil

See It

What We Like

• Provides excellent wear protection
• Slightly more budget-friendly than competitors
• Configured specifically for cold conditions

What We Don’t Like

• Bottle may leak if stored incorrectly

Specs

• Volume: 1 quart
• Configuration: 5W-30
• Type: Synthetic

Valvoline 5W-30 weight motor oil is a synthetic formula with additives that provide 50 percent more wear protection than standard motor oils. The included detergents flush sludge and harmful deposits from the engine, which is significant for small 4-cycle engines that are used only when it snows. 

This snow blower oil’s low cold operating viscosity is ideal for winter-use tools, while its 30-weight high-temperature viscosity rating also makes it suitable for warm-weather machines like lawn mowers. This Valvoline product comes in a 1-quart bottle, but a 5-quart bottle with a pour spout is also available. 

Get the Valvoline oil for snow blowers at Amazon (6-pack), Lowe’s, Walmart, or Tractor Supply Co.

Best for Small Engines

Briggs & Stratton 5W-30 Low-Temp Small Engine Oil

See It

What We Like

• Ideal for use in cold temperatures
• From a brand known for high-quality products
• Specially suited for small engines

What We Don’t Like

• Quite pricey compared to similar products

Specs

• Volume: 1 quart
• Configuration: 5W-30
• Type: Synthetic

Made by one of the best-known names in small engines, this Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle oil is specially formulated for use in small engines. The synthetic formula comes in a 1-quart container with a handy gauge on the side that allows users to see how much oil is left in the bottle. 

With its 5W rating, this snow blower engine oil works well in machines operating at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a high-temperature viscosity of 30, making it suitable for use in warmer-weather motors like power washers or lawn mowers. 

Get the Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle oil for snow blowers at Amazon or Briggs & Stratton.

Best for 2-Cycle Engines

Klotz TechniPlate 2-Stroke Snowmobile Oil

See It

What We Like

• Made for temperatures as low as -48 degrees Fahrenheit
• ISO-EGD compliant for engine protection 
• Formula helps extend engine life 

What We Don’t Like

• Reports of leaky packaging

Specs

• Volume: 4 quarts
• Configuration: TC-W3
• Type: Synthetic

Made for cold temperatures as low as -48 degrees Fahrenheit, the Klotz TechniPlate Snowmobile oil is designed for with 2-cycle engines like those in ATVs, motorcycles, race cars, and, of course, snow blowers. It works with stock engines or modified ones made by all leading manufacturers, including Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat, Polaris, and Yamaha as well as C-TEC and E-TEC engines. 

This clean-burning synthetic formula is TC-W3 certified and ISO-EGD compliant for reliability and efficiency. It’s made to improve throttle response and prevent plug fouling and can be used as an injection oil by pouring it directly into the tank or as a pre-mix product by blending it with gasoline. 

Get the Klotz oil for snow blowers at Amazon or Klotz.

Most Versatile

Castrol GTX High Mileage 5W-30 Motor Oil

See It

What We Like

• Provides immediate engine protection on startup
• Lasts for extended periods and still look clean
• Suitable for both cold and hot weather

What We Don’t Like

• Bottle shape is awkward for filling a snow blower

Specs

• Volume: 5 quarts
• Configuration: 5W-30
• Type: Synthetic

With technology designed to protect engines and improve performance, this 5W-30 Castrol GTX motor oil features Castrol’s sludge and wear protection additive. It prevents buildup, extending the life of engines both large and small.

Castrol GTX also makes it easier to get a pull-start engine running, and once you start your snow blower’s engine, the oil quickly coats it to provide immediate protection. Additionally, this option features the optimal 5W oil rating for winter use and a 30 high-temperature viscosity rating for hot weather. 

Get the Castrol oil for snow blowers at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co. (1 quart), The Home Depot (1 quart), or Walmart (1 quart).

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Oils for Snow Blowers

To provide shoppers with a list of top picks for snow thrower and snow blower oils, we primarily considered oil type and viscosity. 

Oil type: Synthetic oil is the best choice for snow blower motors because it can handle lower temperatures and resist breakdown better than conventional oil. 

Viscosity: Our recommendations are all variations of 5W-30, which is the ideal oil viscosity for snow blowers. The products we selected include budget-friendly versions for occasional use and heavier-duty options that come at a slightly higher price point. Most of the picks on our list are also versatile enough for other home and garden equipment and suitable for both cold and hot weather conditions.

What to Consider When Choosing Oil for a Snow Blower

The right oil can make the difference between a snow blower not starting because it has a gummed-up engine and one that kicks on without issue. Ahead, learn how viscosity, snow blower oil type, and other factors affect engine performance in a snow blower. 

Type

Gas-powered snow blowers use 4-cycle engine oil, a type of oil for snow blower engines that uses separate tanks for gas and oil, much like car engines. The gas fuels the engine, while the oil lubricates it. 

Smaller engines, such as those on chainsaws, have 2-cycle engines. This type of small engine uses an oil and gas mixture that goes into one tank. Don’t use 2-cycle engine oil in a snow blower, as it will not properly lubricate the engine and will damage it. The motors on electric snow blowers don’t require engine oil.

Identifying the right type of engine oil is easy. The oil container has “4-cycle” or “2-cycle” clearly printed on the label. Although some 4-cycle engine oils are labeled for “small engines,” they are actually the same oil commonly used in cars and trucks. 

Viscosity

Viscosity refers to the thickness of the oil. Higher viscosity oil is better at protecting and lubricating engines at high temperatures and peak load (high RPMs). Oil with a low viscosity remains thinner at lower temperatures, promoting better flow through the engine, making it easier to start and more efficient to run. 

Viscosity is based on a scale created by SAE International, formerly known as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Motor oil has two viscosity ratings: 

• The first rating—the “W” (for “winter”) after the number—represents the cold temperature viscosity. For example, an oil rated 5W flows better at lower temperatures than a 10W oil. 
• The second number indicates the high-temperature viscosity. For example, an oil with a high-temperature viscosity of 30 stays thicker at higher temperatures. 

Since snow blowers operate exclusively in cold weather, they typically use SAE 5W-30 weight oil, which ensures the engine will start at low temperatures. Make sure to check the maintenance section of your operating manual for the proper snow blower oil weight for your machine.

Synthetic vs. Standard

Not all 5W-30 engine oils are the same. Some engine oils are synthetic, which means they use higher-quality base oils than conventional oils. Synthetic lubricants can generally withstand higher temperatures and resist breakdown better. This means synthetic oil in a snow blower will last at least 50 percent longer than conventional oil, so you’ll probably need to perform less frequent snow blower maintenance. 

Many synthetic oils also contain additives to help improve engine performance and extend engine life. Additives include detergents that flush grime and buildup and chemicals that coat engine parts to enhance lubrication.

For these reasons, synthetic oils are generally more expensive, often costing several times more than conventional oils. Still, proper maintenance of a quality snow blower will likely run you less than the cost of snow removal if you live in an area with relatively frequent snowfalls. 

Versatility

The 4-cycle engine oil that snow blowers use is the same oil used in any 4-cycle engine, which means it’s also an appropriate oil for lawn mowers, power washers, and even cars and trucks. 5W-30 oil provides adequate protection during both cold and warm weather. 

Engine oil generally comes in 1-quart bottles, which is ideal for snow blowers since they hold about that much. It also comes in 5-quart containers and large, multi-gallon drums, but since its shelf life is generally around 5 years, it’s important not to buy more than you need. To store 5W-30 oil, keep it tightly sealed in a cool, dry environment. 

FAQs 

Even though you now know a fair bit about oil for snow blowers, you may still have additional questions. For details on deciding which type of oil in a snow blower is best to use and how often to replace it, read answers to some frequently asked questions below. 

The post Keep Your Snow Blower Running Efficiently With These High-Quality Oil Options appeared first on Bob Vila.

When snowflakes start to fall, it can be tempting to run out and buy the first snow blower that fits your budget. After all, these specialized tools make it much easier to tackle tough snow-clearing tasks. However, it’s worth taking a little time to learn which machine will work best for your climate and specific driveway and walkways rather than snapping up the first one you see. To help make the process much quicker, we used over 35 top models to remove snow and ice from hundreds of feet of pavement and gravel. 

Our top pick? The Troy-Bilt 2890 Storm Tracker—a powerful machine with excellent traction, a wide clearing path, and an easy-to-maneuver touch-sensitive steering system. Depending on how much snow you typically receive and whether your property is flat or sloped, this may or may not be the ideal model for you. Keep reading to learn more about all of the best snow blowers that made our list and get helpful insights from an expert in the snow blower industry.

1. BEST OVERALL: Troy-Bilt 2890 Storm Tracker Snow Blower
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: PowerSmart Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Cub Cadet 2X 30″ Max Snow Blower
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4. BEST BATTERY: Ego Power+ 24″ Snow Blower With Peak Power
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5. BEST SINGLE-STAGE ELECTRIC: Snow Joe 48V 18″ Ionmax Single-Stage Snow Blower
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6. BEST TWO-STAGE ELECTRIC: Toro 24″ Power Max e24 60V Two-Stage Snow Blower
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7. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Toro Power Max HD 828 OAE Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
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8. MOST VERSATILE: Ryobi 40V HP Two-Stage Self-Propelled Snow Blower Kit
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9. ALSO CONSIDER: Troy-Bilt Storm 2600 Two-Stage Snow Blower
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Snow Blower Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

To help you select the right snow blower, each of the following reviews details important aspects like fuel source, surface compatibility, clearing width and depth, and ease of use. They also discuss unique insights gained from our hands-on tests so you can find the best fit.

Best Overall

Troy-Bilt 2890 Storm Tracker Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Excellent traction on loose and icy surfaces
• Broad 28-inch-wide swath
• Touch N’ Turn power steering

What We Don’t Like

• Track system makes it more expensive

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 28 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

The Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker makes clearing snow on paved, gravel, or dirt surfaces easier than ever. With its 28-inch clearing width, powerful auger and drive system, and tracks for superior traction, this machine is an absolute beast in big storms. The 272 (cubic centimeter) cc motor has plenty of power for big jobs, and the many drive settings allow for perfect speed control. The pull-cord start required only one or two pulls, and the electric start fired immediately. 

During our tests on loose substrate, this snow blower with tracks maintained excellent surface contact and pushed forward with ease. The same was true on icy surfaces. It has adjustable skids to set the lower blade height, and its settings adjust even further with a lever that quickly raises or lowers the blade. When working through gravel and rocky areas, this user-friendly system was a huge benefit. 

What our tester says: “Even on ice, the tracks maintained traction, and having multiple speed settings helped me find the right pace to keep moving forward. I was able to crawl, hit a moderate speed, or move quickly. I also really like this unit’s extras, like heated grips, trigger turn tabs on the handle, and easy chute controls.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Troy-Bilt 2890 Storm Tracker Snow Blower

Get the Troy-Bilt 2890 snow blower at The Home Depot, Walmart, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Troy-Bilt.

Best Bang for the Buck

PowerSmart Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Great price compared with other 2-stage models
• Powerful enough to clear large driveways
• Self-propelled design easily clears snow up to 10 inches
• 180-degree adjustable chute and push-button electric start

What We Don’t Like

• Narrower intake means more passes
• Reduced traction on steep inclines and ice

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 24 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Budget-minded shoppers will want to take a close look at the PowerSmart two-stage snow blower, a model that offers many desirable features found in higher-end models at a more modest price. While it may not be the best choice for especially extreme conditions, it’s plenty capable of clearing the occasional big storm and all light-to-medium snow loads. 

With an intake height of 20 inches and a high-speed impeller that works well in dense snow, this machine performs well in dense snow. It also excels on uneven surfaces and inclines, thanks to a quality drive system that includes reverse options. During testing its 208cc engine ran smoothly, and the electric star made it easy to fire up eerie time. Once we were clearing, it even threw snow through the adjustable chute with power that matched models costing twice as much. 

This model stands out as one of only a few low-cost snow blowers deliver both powerful performance and user-friendly functionality. It’s only slightly more expensive than a heavy-duty electric snow shovel, yet it’s more than enough machine to clear the average driveway with ease.

Get the PowerSmart snow blower at Amazon or PowerSmart.

Upgrade Pick

Cub Cadet 2X 30" Max Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Powerful 357cc gas engine 
• Heavy-duty construction
• Power steering for easy maneuvering
• Cozy hand warmers in the grips

What We Don’t Like

• Not a budget-friendly model

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 30 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

For those with consistently high snow removal needs, Cub Cadet’s 2X 30-inch gas-powered snow blower might be the answer. Equipped with a 357c engine, a two-stage removal system, and self-propelled wheels, this large model is built to power through heavy snow with minimal effort. Its heavy-duty construction features a rotating steel chute with easy-access angle controls built into the top panel, plus onboard headlights for safety and visibility during snowy nights or early mornings.

Yes, the Cub Cadet is expensive—but during testing, it proved its worth. We pushed it through our heaviest snowdrifts and banks, and it powered through without hesitation. Its power steering and 16-inch knobby tires made it easy to maneuver (even in deep snow), and the large engine delivered power far beyond every other model we tested. We also really like the heated hand grips, but who wouldn’t? If you need a capable snow blower for big jobs and deep snow, the Cub Cadet is an excellent option.

Get the Cub Cadet snow blower at The Home Depot or Cub Cadet.

Best Battery

Ego Power+ 24" Snow Blower With Peak Power

See It

What We Like

• Electric motor is powerful yet quiet
• Throws snow up to 50 feet
• User-friendly operation

What We Don’t Like

• Can stall if overloaded too quickly

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 24 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Whether snow is piling up on a sidewalk, patio, or even a gravel driveway, this battery-powered snow blower is powerful enough to push through. We were initially skeptical about its capabilities, but its two-stage system had no problem scooping and throwing snow up to 50 feet, and the self-propelled wheels made it incredibly easy to maneuver. The batteries on this unit provide enough power for up to 135 minutes before needing recharging, providing ample time for most jobs. While it weighs more than many other electric models, the powerful drive system handles the extra pounds easily. It also has a generous 200-degree adjustable chute and bright onboard headlights for increased safety and visibility.

As much as we liked this model, operating it took a little getting used to since the throttle and auger controls are reversed from normal. Once we got the hang of it, we found adjusting the throttle from “eco” to “turbo” allowed it to handle everything we threw at it. Still, running it on eco mode generally provided enough power for standard clearing and also helped maximize runtime. While we did experience a stall when we buried the auger in extremely heavy snow too quickly, this wasn’t an issue when we ran things at low speed. 

What our tester says: “We’re big fans of this Ego electric snow blower. It’s so much quieter than gas snow blowers, and we thought it was incredibly easy to use. It also throws snow so far that you almost have to be careful where you aim it.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Ego snow blower at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Single-Stage Electric

Snow Joe 48V 18" Ionmax Single-Stage Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Includes 2 rechargeable 24-volt batteries
• Quadruple-bladed steel auger 
• Moves up to 10 tons of snow per charge
• 180-degree adjustable snow chute

What We Don’t Like

• Plastic blade may chip on hard objects

Specs 

• Type: Single-stage
• Width: 18 inches
• Self-propelled: No

If you’re seeking an economical single-stage snow blower with plenty of power, simple operational features, and great performance, this could be the model for you. Powered by two rechargeable 24-vot batteries, this Snow Joe delivers up to 40 minutes of runtime to move more than 10 tons of snow per charge.

Weighing just 39 pounds, this cordless snow blower is easy to push around and manage. While it doesn’t have a drive or propulsion system, the 18-inch rubber-tipped auger helps it move forward while working through snow. This large auger also aids it in cutting a10-inch-deep path noticeably faster than some other models we tested. It throws snow well past the 20-foot mark claimed by the manufacturer and has a helpful set of LED headlights to increase visibility in dark conditions. 

As an affordable, electric single-stage model, the Snow Joe proved functional and consistent in a variety of conditions. The batteries also charged quickly (about 2 hours), making it possible to get back up and running without long delays. We didn’t need to wait through a recharge during testing, however, because the batteries lasted through each full session. 

Get the Snow Joe snow blower at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, Best Buy, or Snow Joe.

Best Two-Stage Electric

Toro 24" Power Max e24 60V Two-Stage Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Consistent performance and features
• Auger doesn’t use shear pins
• Reliable performance and control

What We Don’t Like

• Requires long battery recharging between uses

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 24 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Though it’s electric, this model’s body, auger, and overall design are an exact match to the gas-powered models in the Toro lineup. Other than its quiet and fume-free battery operation, it features the same exceptional controls, durable steel auger, and great features and functions of the gas versions. It delivers an equally reliable performance and impressive ability to churn through snow yet doesn’t require the same amount of maintenance as a gas machine. 

During testing, we ran this unit for over 30 minutes using just one battery. Adding a second battery provides over an hour of runtime, and adding a third extends its capabilities even more. Generally speaking, its features are similar to many of the other good electric snow blower options available, but it does offer a couple of distinct advantages. First, its all-steel auger doesn’t require shear pins. Instead, it has integrated protections to prevent overloading and damaging the auger and mechanical components without requiring the replacement of broken pins. Second, the option to purchase a third battery for the tray makes this model among the longest-lasting electric snow-clearing machines on the market. 

Get the Toro e24 snow blower at Tractor Supply Co. or Toro.

Best Heavy-Duty

Toro Power Max HD 828 OAE Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Cuts a broad swath
• Can handle deep snow and slick surfaces
• Has an adjustable steel chute

What We Don’t Like

• Must manually adjust skids

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 28 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Thanks to its joystick-like controls, wide coverage, and ability to handle deeper snowfall than many other two-stage models, the Toro Power Max 828 OAE snow blower is ideal for climates with heavy snowfalls every winter. Its large intake sits above the ground, enabling use on gravel and uneven surfaces, and it has a broad 28-inch swath that can clear snow up to 21 inches deep and throw it an impressive 45 feet. 

During testing, this model performed exceptionally well. Its Quick Stick controls and power steering made one-handed turning easy, and its knobby 16-inch tires provided ample traction in slick conditions. The anti-clogging system efficiently managed snow intake to prevent delays, and its LED headlight was helpful for nighttime snow blowing. It also has solid skids to adjust blade height above the ground, making it suitable for rough terrain.

What our tester says: “It’s hard to overstate how nice the joystick controls were for moving the chute throw direction and angle. Between the joystick and all its other features, this Toro was a very close second to our top pick, and it only lost out because it was pitted against a track system with height-adjustment control. Otherwise, this model is an absolute beast that can charge through the biggest storms.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Toro 828 snow blower at Tractor Supply Co. or Toro. 

Most Versatile

Ryobi 40V HP Two-Stage Self-Propelled Snow Blower Kit

See It

What We Like

• Changes direction easily
• Plenty of power in deep snow
• Intuitive controls and powerful drive system

What We Don’t Like

• Batteries need recharging after 30 minutes

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 22 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Driveways come in all shapes and sizes, and they don’t all call for an extra-large snow blower. With a 22-inch-wide cutting path, this small snow blower Ryobi may not be as big as some of the models we tested, but it still makes a substantial dent on each pass. The tires have great traction, and the machine also has a steel auger, speedy drive system, and skids for raising the blade over gravel. 

In testing, the Ryobi’s ease of use and ability to maneuver in tight spaces were a bonus. It turned and pivoted without resistance, and the drive system was powerful enough that we didn’t need to push much. According to the manufacturer, the batteries last up to 30 minutes, but ours went even longer in light snow. For the average driveway, that’s more than sufficient to get the job done, but for wet and heavy snow or large properties, it may make sense to pick up an extra battery to avoid waiting for a recharge.

What our tester says: “This two-stage brushless snow blower was such a big surprise in our tests that we were reminded just how valuable hands-on testing is. It delivered a ton of power and an impressive overall performance that we just wouldn’t have believed had we not experienced it ourselves.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Ryobi snow blower at The Home Depot.

Also Consider

Troy-Bilt Storm 2600 Two-Stage Snow Blower

See It

What We Like

• Electric-start feature 
• Chunky tires are great for uneven or slippery surfaces
• Easy to access chute control

What We Don’t Like

• Shorter snow discharge than some

Specs 

• Type: 2-stage
• Width: 26 inches
• Self-propelled: Yes

Anyone on the hunt for an all-around capable snow blower may want to check out the Troy-Bilt Storm 26-inch snow blower. This gas-powered model can handle small properties while being heavy-duty enough to hold its own on large ones. It features two self-propelled drive wheels with big, chunky tires for plenty of surface grip. Also, the electric start makes firing it up a breeze.

Overall, we enjoyed using the Troy-Bilt Storm. We liked that the chunky tires offered plenty of grip—even on loose, grainy snow. We also liked that the chute controls, including angle and trajectory, were easily accessible from the control panel. While it doesn’t seem to throw snow as far as other models, it was very effective at removing plowed snow from the end of a driveway. Also, starting this model was very easy; it started on the first pull almost every time. 

Get the Troy-Bilt 2600 snow blower at The Home Depot, Walmart, or Troy-Bilt. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Snow Blowers

Because we were testing some serious machines for this guide, we needed to wait for a real winter storm to try them out. Once 10 inches of heavy, wet snow was on the ground, we used these tools to clear two 75-foot-long, 4-car driveways, about 200 feet of sidewalk, several small walkways, and the plow-piled snow at the ends of both driveways. We also ran the snow blowers over a loose gravel driveway and a compact gravel road to test their abilities on challenging terrain.

We tested ease of use for pull-cord and electric starters and runtime for battery-powered models. We noted snow discharge range, maneuverability, power, control, and the value added by extra features like heated grips and LED lights. We gave points based on a rubric and assigned worthy machines relevant awards. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Snow Blower

According to Wes Bollingmo, Channel & Product Support Manager at the well-respected outdoor tool company Toro, asking yourself a few simple questions is a great way to go about choosing a snow blower.

 “The key to finding the ‘best’ snow blower for any homeowner is assessing your space. Ask yourself: How large is the area you need to clear? What type of surface do you need to clear? What kind of slope does your driveway have? How much snow typically falls? These answers should narrow down your search better than just looking at a price tag,” he says. 

Types of Snow Blowers

Many people first think about snow blowers in terms of how wide a path they can clear, which is important—especially for large properties. However, perhaps a higher priority is choosing the type of snow blower best suited to the snow typical to your region and the surfaces you intend to use it on. Understanding terms like “single-stage,” “two-stage,” or “three-stage” is key to ensuring you choose the right machine for your needs.

Single-Stage Snow Blowers

Single-stage snow blowers, also called “snow throwers,” use a simple yet effective design. They have a horizontal auger at the front that rotates rapidly, generating sufficient force to scoop up snow and toss it through the chute. Most single-stage blowers can clear an 18- to 21-inch swath of light, fluffy snow, and they’re available in both gas and electric models.

While single-stage snow blowers work well for smaller spaces, their design has limitations. They generally do not generate sufficient power to blow the snow more than 15 to 20 feet away, meaning they aren’t ideal for wide driveways. Also, their auger blades skim the ground during operation, which makes them effective for clearing flat paved areas but poor snow blowers for gravel driveways since they tend to pick up small rocks and toss them out the chute. 

Two-Stage Snow Blowers

Two-stage snow blowers feature a powerful impeller fan that works in combination with an auger to draw in snow and forcefully throw it out the chute. Depending on the power of the fan on a particular model and the weight of the snow, a two-stage snow blower can shoot snow over 35 feet. 

In addition to handling fluffy snow, two-stage blowers can also handle wet snow and clear swaths ranging from approximately 20 inches to 30 inches (or more). Unlike their single-stage counterparts, two-stage snow blowers are suitable for use on gravel driveways because their auger blades don’t touch the ground.

Three-Stage Snow Blowers

Three-stage snow blowers are the big boys in the snow removal world. In addition to an auger and impeller fan, they feature an accelerator that grinds chunks of ice and powerfully expels snow and slush from the chute. It’s not unusual for a three-stage blower to throw lightweight snow a distance of more than 40 feet. 

These muscle-bound machines can clear paths as wide as 30 inches depending on the specific model. For those with truly heavy-duty snow removal needs, a three-stage blower might be the machine for the job. While these models are often very expensive, buying a three-stage snow blower may be more economical than paying the cost of snow removal for large properties that get a lot of heavy snow. 

Terrain Type

Removing snow from flat sidewalks and driveways is a straightforward process with most snow blowers, but trying to push a heavy snow blower up an incline can be a workout for even the most physically fit. 

If there’s a slope to maneuver, consider buying a self-propelled snow blower. With this snow blower type, the wheels pull the machine forward, so all that’s necessary is to guide the machine and follow along. If a gravel driveway needs to be cleared, make sure the machine is a two-stage or three-stage snow blower to prevent throwing rocks. 

Fuel

Like most outdoor-maintenance machines, snow blowers might run on electricity, gas, or diesel. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks.

• Electric-powered snow blowers are typically small, affordable single-stage machines intended to clear light snow up to about 12 inches deep. They need to be plugged into an outlet with an extension cord. This limits their performance and range, making them best suited for those who receive minimal snowfall and have relatively short sidewalks and driveways. 

Electric-powered snow blowers are also handy for clearing snow from decks and steps because they’re lightweight enough to lift and move. A bonus: These machines don’t create fumes and don’t raise concerns about where to store fuel.

• Gas- and diesel-powered snow blowers boast a lot more power than electric blowers, and they don’t restrict their operators to the length of an extension cord. With a blower like this, it’s possible to clear deep and heavy snow all along a driveway and then continue down the sidewalk to clear a neighbor’s drive as well.
• Battery-operated cordless snow blowers are relatively new to the snow removal market and quite promising. They benefit from fume-free operation like electric blowers, but they don’t need an extension cord. That said, their runtime is usually limited to around 30 to 40 minutes before the high-capacity battery needs recharging. However, in many cases, they can continue past 30 minutes if the user swaps in a spare battery. 

Clearing Width 

Single-stage snow blowers (also known as “snow throwers”) are designed to remove snow in swath widths ranging from around 18 inches to 21 inches. Two-stage snow blowers will clear snow in a swath up to 30 inches wide, and three-stage snow blowers stay consistent at 30 inches wide, though they move faster thanks to their accelerators.

Weight

Corded electric snow blowers are typically the lightest, generally weighing between 26 to 38 pounds, followed by cordless snow blowers at anywhere from 30 to 69 pounds. Gas-powered snow blowers are in the heaviest category and can weigh 100 to 350 pounds or more.

Wheels vs. Tracks

Snow can be slippery, especially if it has a chance to melt slightly and then refreeze. This can make it hard for even self-propelled snow blowers to power through, but this is where track-drive snow blowers shine. 

Instead of wheels that can lose traction when maneuvering through heavy or slippery snow, the tracks on a track-drive model dig in and help pull the machine along. Another difference is in price: A gas-powered snow blower runs an average of $500 to $2,000, with track-drive blowers in the upper end of that range and extending beyond.

Additional Features

Some of the best snow blowers include extra features that make the work easier and more comfortable. Accessories designed to elevate the experience of using a snow blower include: 

• Heated handles to keep cold hands warm in frigid temps
• Lights, which enable snow clearing to begin before dawn or after dark
• Speed controls to adjust how quickly the self-propelled wheels turn
• Automatic safety shutoff for when the handles get released to prevent a loss of control
• Electric starters, which allow for pull-free starts and less strain

FAQs

We’ve covered a lot of information about the best snow blowers, but to avoid making common snow blower mistakes, it’s smart to review the answers to the following frequently asked questions before making a final decision. 

Meet the Tester

Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance. His home base in Montana is the perfect testing ground for winter products and snow equipment. With over a decade of professional writing experience, he also covers a variety of other projects and maintenance topics for BobVila.com.

Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor and Tom Scalisi. 

The post We Cleared Nearly 400 Feet of Pavement to Find the 10 Best Snow Blowers appeared first on Bob Vila.

Drywall is light, affordable, and relatively easy to cut, hang, and repair when you have the necessary tools and supplies, such as drywall tape, drywall screws, and drywall saws. A handheld drywall saw or jab saw has a long, narrow blade with large teeth and a sharp tip specifically designed for cutting into drywall. These tools are affordable and easy to use, making them a great option for any DIYer’s tool box. 

Trying to take on a drywall installation or repair project completely unprepared can lead to a difficult, time-consuming mess. Like all tools, you will want to find a drywall saw that is durable, accurate, and effective so that you can accomplish any drywall cutting tasks with relative ease. Take a look at this list of the best drywall saws to find a product that is suitable for your next home renovation or drywall repair project.

Best Overall

DeWalt DWHT20540 Jab Saw

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Pros

• Comfortable contoured handle improves ease of use
• Aggressive tooth pattern increases cutting efficiency
• Useful for cutting drywall, plastic, and other soft building materials
• Durable, induction-hardened teeth stay sharp for longer

Cons

• Not suited for large, clean cuts
• Teeth may tear soft-sided tool bags

Specs

• Blade material Carbon steel
• Number of teeth 8 TPI
• Blade length 6 inches

One of the top considerations for every DIYer selecting a quality drywall saw is the design of the handle. This DeWalt drywall saw features a comfortable, padded grip with a contoured handle that minimizes hand fatigue so you can work for longer periods without worrying about your hand cramping up. Additionally, the aggressive tooth pattern makes it easier for the blade to slice through the drywall, reducing the amount of power it takes to control the tool.

At 6 inches in length, the blade of this DeWalt drywall saw is long enough to pierce through several sheets of drywall and make accurate cutouts for ceiling lights, electrical outlets, pipes, cables, or any other objects that might protrude. It can also be used for cutting plastic and other soft building materials thanks to the highly durable, induction-hardened teeth. Just make sure to store the drywall saw in a solid plastic or metal toolbox that can withstand wear and tear from the sharp teeth.

What our tester says: “The tip of the saw penetrates drywall easily, and the long triple-ground saw teeth cut into drywall cleanly without tearing the paper at the edges of the cut. I also found the cushioned handle comfortable, which made it easy for me to control the blade for straight or curved cutting.” -Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the DeWalt Drywall Saw at Amazon, Home Depot, or Ace Hardware.

More Drywall Saws Worth Your Money

Whether for making cutouts in the ceiling for new lights or cutting out damaged patches of drywall for minor repairs, these quality drywall saws come highly recommended. Choose the tooth pattern and blade design that suits your next project, or opt for one of the folding drywall saws to make tool storage easier.

• Goldblatt Folding Jab Saw, available at Amazon, Floor & Decor, or Walmart.
• Irwin Tools ProTouch Jab Saw, available at Amazon, Lowes, or Walmart.
• Klein Tools Folding Jab Saw, available at Amazon, Lowes, or Acme Tools.
• Shark RockEater Drywall Saw, available at Amazon, Sharp Corp., or Hardware World.
• Great Neck Double Edged Drywall Saw, available at Amazon, AutoZone, or Hardware World.

How We Chose the Best Drywall Saws

In order to select the best drywall saws for this list, we researched and reviewed a wide range of products from the top tool manufacturing brands. From a pool of over 30 potential options we narrowed our choices based on durability, blade design, blade material, size, weight, and any additional features, such as a folding blade that would make it easier to store the drywall saw.

We aimed to choose a variety of blade styles and drywall saw designs to provide a diverse selection of top tools for this list. The price of each saw also influenced our assessment, though the most important factor we considered was the overall quality of each drywall saw. With this in mind, we eliminated products with weak blades, uncomfortable handles, and low durability until only the best drywall saws remained. 

FAQs

Before starting the search for the best hand saw to cut drywall, it’s worth finding out as much as possible about drywall saws and the right methods for cutting drywall. Otherwise, you may invest in a drywall or wallboard cutting tool that isn’t suitable for the project or that can only be used for certain aspects of the job, like an adjustable drywall hole saw. Check out this list of frequently asked questions about drywall and drywall saws to round out your understanding.

The post This Tool is a Must-Have for DIY Renovation Projects appeared first on Bob Vila.

Best Overall

Ryobi BD4601G 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt/Disc Sander

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Best Bang for the Buck

Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Bench Sander

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Best for Large Tasks

Wen 6502T 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt and Disc Sander

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Bench sanders are designed to smooth large surfaces quickly and easily, allowing you to finish a woodworking project faster. We researched more than 20 best-selling bench sanders and then tested the top five to see how well they performed in workshop sanding situations. And we found a favorite: the Ryobi BD4601G 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt/Disc Sander, which offers a large flat sanding surface plus a 6-inch sanding disc. It excelled in our hands-on sanding tests. 

If the Ryobi isn’t the right tool for you, no need to worry—we tested more top-rated models that provide additional sanding solutions for DIYers and pros. We also added three more models to our list, which, though we didn’t test them, grabbed our attention based on reviews and customer ratings. Among our lineup of the best bench sanders, you’ll find combo models and even a sander that comes with a grinding wheel. 

1. BEST OVERALL: Ryobi BD4601G 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt/Disc Sander
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Bench Sander
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3. BEST FOR LARGE TASKS: Wen 6502T 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt and Disc Sander
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4. BEST UPGRADE PICK: Grizzly Industrial G0787 Horizontal/Vertical Belt Sander
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5. BEST VERTICAL: Bucktool BG2600 Combo Belt Sander Bench Grinder
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6. BEST FOR SHOP: Jet J-41002 Belt Grinder and Disc Sander
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7. BEST COMBO SANDER: Rockwell RK7866 Shop Series Belt/Disc Combo Sander
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Bench Sanders Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

The following list of bench sanders has something for every woodworker. We chose models with wide belts for aggressive wood removal and some with narrow belts for finer detail work. Many include rotating discs and fences or miter gauges for precision work, and we’ve included high-quality models to fit various budgets. One is sure to be a good pick for your workshop. 

Best Overall

Ryobi BD4601G 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt/Disc Sander

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What We Like

• Wide-profile belt for large sanding tasks
• Belt and disc sanding options
• Integrated dust port
• Miter gauge for sanding angles

What We Don’t Like

• Dust collection requires attaching a hose

Specs

• Type: Belt and disc sander
• Power: 4.3 amps
• Additional accessories: Integrated dust port, work table 

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Build Quality 5/5; Performance 5/5; Value 4.8/5

This pick can get a lot of sanding done in a hurry thanks to its 36-inch by 4-inch belt and the driving force of the powerful 4.3-amp motor. This impressive tabletop belt sander also has a 6-inch disc and an adjustable tool rest table that we used to smooth bevels and angles. 

We especially liked its adjustable belt position, which allowed us to use the sander vertically or horizontally. That’s a definite perk when sanding various board configurations for the same project. 

The integrated dust port on this benchtop sander can be connected to a collection bag or to a shop-type vacuum. We used it with and without an attached vacuum hose, and it significantly reduced the amount of airborne dust. The sanding disc table has a miter gauge to support material at a specific angle, and we found that very helpful for sanding consistent angles.

What our tester says: “I love how stable the Ryobi bench sander is. I tested it with and without it being bolted to the workbench, and although I’d always suggest bolting, the Ryobi didn’t walk or move when it wasn’t bolted.” —Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Ryobi bench sander at Amazon, The Home Depot or Walmart. 

Best Bang for the Buck

Rikon Power Tools 50-151 Bench Sander

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What We Like

• Budget-friendly price
• Compact size for small-scale DIY
• Sturdy tool rest table
• Built-in miter gauge

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for heavy-duty sanding

Specs

• Type: Belt and disc sander
• Power: 0.33 hp
• Additional accessories: Dust port, miter gauge

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Build Quality 4/5; Performance 5/5; Value 5/5

With the Rikon 50-151 bench sander, users can enjoy the power of a bench sander without spending a lot of money. It features a narrow 1-inch by 30-inch sanding belt that performed well in our tests for smaller projects. It has a sturdy tool rest table that supported our workpieces while we sanded. 

The Rikon also features a disc sander with a built-in miter gauge, which we used to sand consistent angles and square ends on both hardwood and softwood boards.

This is a light-duty sander, and we’d recommend it for small DIY and craft projects or repair work. It’s not big enough or powerful enough to handle large sanding projects, but it’s well worth the investment for those who work on many small-scale projects. We connected our shop vacuum to the dust port, which reduced airborne dust, but enough escaped that wearing a dust mask is a must. 

Get the Rikon bench sander at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best for Large Tasks

Wen 6502T 4-Inch by 36-Inch Belt and Disc Sander

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What We Like

• Belt and disc sanding combo
• Quickly smooths rough wood
• Quick and easy sandpaper changes
• Smooth operation (no wobbling)

What We Don’t Like

• Requires vacuum for dust mitigation

Specs

• Type: Belt and disc sander
• Power: 4.3 amps 
• Additional accessories: Miter gauge, dust port

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Build Quality 5/5; Performance 5/5; Value 4.5/5

This Wen bench sander comes with two standard sanding tools—a 4-inch belt sander and a 6-inch disc sander—so it can handle a range of projects. It has a cast-iron base and weighs 37.6 pounds, which is heavy enough to prevent most wobbling during use, but we bolted it to our workbench anyway. 

In our tests, the sanding belt did an excellent job of quickly smoothing out rough wood surfaces and removing extra material on both hardwood and softwood boards. The 6-inch disc features a large tool rest table and built-in miter gauge that we used to sand square board ends and angled ends. 

The Wen bench sander is powered by a 4.3-amp motor and has a simple tension release lever for changing the sandpaper. The sanding belts on this sander are also designed for easy replacement. Its dust collection port doesn’t direct the flow of sawdust on its own, but when we connected it to our shop vacuum, it substantially reduced the amount of airborne dust. 

Get the Wen 6502T bench sander at Amazon or The Home Depot. 

Best Upgrade Pick

Grizzly Industrial G0787 Horizontal/Vertical Belt Sander

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What We Like

• Multipurpose shop tool for sanding and grinding
• Lower risk of damage from heat buildup
• Sharpens material quickly
• Easy to adjust/change grit

What We Don’t Like

• 80-grit belt is not aggressive 
• Requires practice to achieve precision

Specs

• Type: Belt grinder and sander
• Power: 4.3 amps, ½ hp
• Additional accessories: Built-in adjustable miter gauge, 2½-inch dust port, worktable angle scale

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Build Quality 4.5/5; Performance 4/5; Value 5/5

The Grizzly Industrial horizontal/vertical belt sander works well on wood or metal projects, and we tested this one for sharpening mower blades. It packs a 4.3-amp single-phase motor that turns the belt at a rate of 1,900 feet per minute. The 90-degree adjustable belt platen and right-angle backstop allow vertical, diagonal, or horizontal sanding for optimal user comfort and control.

The 4-inch abrasive belt perfectly matched the width of the sharp edges on our 21.5-inch mower blades. We raised the belt arm to the vertical position, flipped the power switch, and braced the blade against the backstop as it contacted the belt. The moderately worn blade only needed a 12-second grind on each edge, while the severely worn blade required 27 seconds per edge. This would also be a good bench sander for large woodworking projects. 

What our tester says: “I liked that the Grizzly belt sander gave the edge an evenly flat profile, and the included 80-grit belt left a smooth finish.” —Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester & writer 

Get the Grizzly Industrial bench sander at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, or Grizzly Industrial.

More Great Options

While we didn’t test the following models in our workshops, they made our shortlist of bench grinders based on their standout reviews and ratings. Each offers a slightly different range of power and features in a range of budgets.

Best Vertical

Bucktool BG2600 Combo Belt Sander Bench Grinder

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What We Like

• 42-inch belt adjusts from 0 to 90 degrees
• Horizontal and vertical sanding 
• Brush wheel included

What We Don’t Like

• Bench sanding belt’s tension cannot be adjusted

Specs

• Type: Belt sander and disc grinder
• Power: 3.5 amps 
• Additional accessories: Cast-iron base, eye shield, brass wheel 

This Bucktool bench sander has a 2-inch by 42-inch belt sander that can be adjusted from 0 degrees to 90 degrees, so it can be set up to run horizontally or vertically, depending on needs. We really like the 6-inch bench grinder that can be used for sharpening, as well as the inclusion of a brush wheel for removing rust from tools. 

This combination belt sander/bench grinder has a 3.5-amp motor and a cast-iron base for better support while working. For the most stable sanding results, we still recommend bolting the Bucktool to a workbench. The grinder also comes with an adjustable eye shield and a built-in LED light, which illuminates the work area while the wheel is in use.

This is one of the most versatile picks on our list because it sands, grinds, and brushes away rust. 

Get the Bucktool bench sander at Amazon.

Best for Shop

Jet J-41002 Belt Grinder and Disc Sander

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What We Like

• Suitable for multiple sanding tasks 
• 3,100 surface feet per minute (SFPM) 
• 3,450 revolutions per minute (RPM) 
• Made of heavy-duty steel and cast iron 

What We Don’t Like

• Heavy: may not be suitable for frequent transport

Specs

• Type: Belt grinder and disc sander
• Power: 6.2 amps, ¾ hp
• Additional accessories: 45-degree sanding table, miter gauge

Woodworkers in search of a highly functional combination belt and disc sander may want to check out this Jet model, which has a powerful 6.2-amp motor, one of the most powerful of any on our lineup. It drives the vertical 42-inch-long by 2-inch-wide belt sander at up to 3,100 SFPM and the 8-inch disc sander at up to 3,450 RPM, helping to ensure a smooth finish on woodworking projects.

The powerful motor and the heavy-duty steel and cast-iron construction add to the weight of this benchtop belt sander, sitting at a hefty 60 pounds, so it may not be a good choice for users who want to pack it up and take it to multiple jobsites. However, the 45-degree sanding table has a removable miter gauge to help users produce a smooth, accurate finish while sanding at an angle.

The only thing we would prefer on this model is a wider sanding belt. With the power this sander has, a 4-inch belt would make quick work of sanding large projects. 

Get the Jet bench sander at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart. 

Best Combo Sander

Rockwell RK7866 Shop Series Belt/Disc Combo Sander

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What We Like

• 6-inch disc sander 
• Table adjusts from 0 to 45 degrees 
• Offers horizontal and vertical sanding 
• Built-in safety switch 
• Dust collection port

What We Don’t Like

• Some users report poor construction 
• Belt tends to strip out easily

Specs

• Type: Belt and disc sander 
• Power: 4.3 amps, ½ hp 
• Additional accessories: Adjustable table, dust port

This Rockwell belt/disc combo sander can get a lot of work done fast thanks to its wide belt sander and 4.3-amp (½ hp) motor. We like that it also has a 6-inch disc sander and an adjustable sanding table that can be set from 0 to 45 degrees for optimal material positioning. This belt sander can be adjusted from a horizontal position to a vertical sanding position. 

The Rockwell has a safety switch to prevent accidental starts. For convenience, both the belt and disc sandpaper are easy to change. The Rockwell sander also comes with a dust collection system. It weighs 42 pounds, which we feel is heavy enough to reduce most of the vibration or movement associated with sanding, but we still recommend bolting it in a permanent spot on the workbench. 

Get the Rockwell bench sander at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Bench Sanders 

We started by researching the best-selling bench sanders based on type, power, user-friendliness, and other special features included by top brands. We narrowed our list to eight and then selected the top five for hands-on testing. (We also tested the Wen HA5932 Portable Oscillating Spindle Sander, but went out of stock upon publication.)

In actual testing, we used the bench sanders in our workshops to perform various sanding tasks. We sanded hardwood and softwood, and we used the miter gauges available on some models to sand square ends and angles. We carefully noted the safety aspects of each of the sanders as well as beneficial features that made using the tools easier or more efficient.

We awarded points based on a rubric: the better a bench sander performed on a test or assessment, the higher the points. After testing, we averaged the points to determine our best overall pick and to categorize the other bench sanders by their best use. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Bench Sander

There is a lot to consider when searching for the right sander. From the space available to the particular type of machine best suited to your needs, the following are some things to think about when looking for the best benchtop sanders for a workshop.

Type

Many different types of electrical sanders fall under the category of bench sander, giving tool users a range of options for their woodworking projects. Bench sander types include belt and disc, drum, and oscillating spindle sanders.

• A belt and disc sander is a combination bench sander that includes a horizontal or vertical belt sander and a disc sander. The benchtop belt sander is a great choice for DIYers who enjoy woodworking projects because it provides multiple methods for sanding, smoothing, and shaping woodworking pieces. 
• Drum sanders have traditionally been large freestanding tools with impressive power, but recently manufacturers have started producing a type of benchtop drum sander that can sit on the worktable or workbench. Drum sanders are designed to smooth long boards, panels, or doors and are essentially large stationary belt sanders. 
• Oscillating spindle sanders have a vertical spindle where the abrasive sleeves are installed. This spindle rotates and oscillates up and down simultaneously, helping to prevent any lines from forming in the wood or alternate material. The result is a smooth finish on curves, contours, and other irregular shapes. 

Power 

The amount of power a bench sander needs depends on how it will be used. Large projects benefit from a sander with a powerful motor that can rip through a lot of material in a short period of time. Smaller, delicate projects need a less powerful sander, as too much force can ruin a design or tear the material apart. 

Additionally, a powerful sander is harder to control, which is not ideal when working with a small piece of wood. A bench sander with a ⅓ to ¾ hp motor—or about 1 to 5 amps—should be sufficient for most DIY sanding projects.

Adjustability 

The best bench sanders for woodworking can be adjusted to customize motor speed, sanding angle, and sanding surface, which gives the tool the ability to handle a wider range of projects and materials. A bench sander with speed controls lets users throttle its power output. 

The sanding angle on some belt sanders can be adjusted horizontally or vertically. There are also bench sanders that can be set to use a range of sandpaper types for smoothing materials other than wood.

Ease of Use

If the goal is to find a tool that’s easy to use, look for a sander with intuitive controls, clearly indicated measurements, and clear instructions for use. A bench sander needs to be heavy enough to remain steady as wood is pushed against it but light enough to move around as needed in the workshop. A tool in the weight range of 30 to 40 pounds is usually ideal. Even with sufficient heft, it’s helpful for a sander to have a nonslip base so that it remains stable on the workbench during use.

Make sure to choose the right kind of bench sander for the work that’s planned. For fine work, a bench sander with a spindle-sanding tool is the best bet. If a wide range of projects are planned, a sander with a belt sanding tool, disc sanders, or a grinding wheel may be the better choice. 

Additional Features

Bench sanders can come with several different accessories or built-in features to help make it easier to control the sander and achieve the best finish possible on projects. Remember that these tools can be loud, so have hearing protection on hand. 

• Safety: Staying safe is the first concern while using a bench sander, so some manufacturers have included a removable key to prevent the power from being turned on and a lockable power switch. Some models may come with a benchtop sanding bench guard or safety gear like gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, or a dust mask.
• Bevel capacity: Beveling is the process of sanding or cutting a square edge to create a sloping one. Bench sanders can include a beveling device that controls the specific beveling range or beveling capacity, though this feature is more common on circular saws, miter saws, and table saws. Bench sanders tend to rely more on miter gauges for angled cuts.
• Miter gauge: Some bench sanders have a built-in slot that can be used to secure a miter gauge, which holds the material in place during sanding. This is especially useful for sanding on an angle because the miter gauge keeps the angle consistent.
• Dust collector: Bench sanders produce dust and debris that can become a safety hazard. Look for models with built-in dust collectors. When running, these collectors produce suction that pulls dust from the sandpaper into a dust collection bag. After the work is done, the dust can be easily emptied from the bag.

Tips for Using a Bench Sander

Safety is important when working with a bench sander. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including work gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask, should be worn. 

Using proper sanding techniques is crucial. Operate the sander with a slow, deliberate pace to avoid accidentally over-sanding the material. Like any benchtop power tool, a bench sander should be operated on a flat, stable surface so that it doesn’t slip, wobble, or fall over. To recap:

• Use PPE when operating a bench sander. 
• Don’t force the wood against the sander; move slowly and deliberately.
• Place the bench sander on a sturdy, flat surface so that it won’t shift while running.

FAQs 

With so many bench sander options and features, it’s understandable to have some lingering questions. If you still aren’t sure how to choose the best bench sander, the following helpful answers to common questions about bench sanders may help. 

Meet the Testers

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction and power tools. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Mark Wolfe is an expert gardener, landscaper, avid DIYer, and power tool aficionado, as well as a seasoned product tester and writer for BobVila.com. 

The post We’ve Researched Over 20 Bench Sanders, But We Like These 7 the Best appeared first on Bob Vila.

Laser measures use a laser and an optical sensor to determine the distance between two surfaces to find the height of a room, the length of a stairway, or other helpful measurements. With this tool, you won’t have to rely on a flexible metal tape measure. We put some of the best laser distance measures through the paces to test how accurately they measure, noting their features, to compile this list of the best laser measures for both DIYers and pros.

After lining up the laser distance measure with the surface on the other end of the room, this hand tool calculates the measurement almost instantly. Many laser measuring tools also provide area or volume measurements, as well as an impressive accuracy range that can measure to within  ⅛, 1/16, or even 1/32 inch. 

After testing many of the top models on the market, our favorite was the Bosch GLM165-25G Blaze Green-Beam Laser Measure, thanks to its easy-to-see green laser beam and vast number of features. We also spoke with industry experts to get their insights on ideal features that make a great laser measure, and we took this into consideration to evaluate other features like display, ease of use, and included apps. The result: this list of the best laser measures by category.

1. BEST OVERALL: Bosch GLM165-25G Blaze Green-Beam Laser Measure
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Atolla Laser Distance Measure
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Bosch GLM400CL Blaze Outdoor 400-Foot Laser Measure
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4. BEST COMPACT: Leica Disto E7100i Laser Distance Measure
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5. BEST FOR PROS: DeWalt Tool Connect 100-Foot Laser Distance Measurer
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6. BEST HYBRID: Lexivon 2-in-1 Digital Laser Tape Measure
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7. BEST RANGE: Leica Disto D2 Laser Distance Measure
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8. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Klein Tools Compact Laser Distance Measure
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9. BEST FUNCTIONS: Mileseey Outdoor Laser Distance Meter With Camera
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Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

There are a lot of details to consider when selecting the right laser measure for the job. To help shoppers find their best option in a laser distance measure, below are some of the best product picks based on quality, price, and features. We performed hands-on testing with these models to ensure they met our expectations, and eliminated those that did not.

Best Overall

Bosch GLM165-25G Blaze Green-Beam Laser Measure

See It

What We Like

• Easy to see green laser beam
• Can check back on previous measurements
• Has a rounding option

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t include a rechargeable battery

Specs

• Range 165 feet
• Display Backlit LED
• Connectivity None

The Bosch GLM165-25G Blaze Green-Beam laser measure has what it takes to replace any other outdoor laser level. It has a green laser beam that’s easy to see in daylight (something red lasers don’t always excel at) as well as a weather-, water-, and dust-resistant exterior to protect it from tough jobsite conditions. 

The Bosch has a number of features and functions that make it a solid choice. First, it has a maximum range of 165 feet, making it useful for most outdoor projects. It also has an audible beep, auto shutoff, a backlit display, and battery-save mode. It’s compatible with a tripod and its functions include distance, continuous measure, area, volume, Pythagorean theorem, wall area, stakeout, and leveling. It even allows users to choose if they’d like to round and what fraction they want to round to for faster measurements: ½, ¼, ⅛, 1/16, or 1/32 inch.

The Bosch was very easy to use, though we did think the digits on the screen were a little difficult to see. It also has a huge memory, storing so many measurements that we couldn’t even remember what they were. Our only complaint, and we had to dig for one here, is that it doesn’t have rechargeable batteries, but that’s the case for several other laser levels in this list as well.

What our tester says: “While the Bosch was great indoors, I found the bright green laser was an excellent touch for outdoor projects. It’s easier to see in daylight, which allowed me to get measurements faster and ultimately helped me save more battery life.”–Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Bosch Green-Beam laser measure at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Tool.

Best Bang for the Buck

Atolla Laser Distance Measure

See It

What We Like

• Provides accurate measurements
• Easy to carry compact design
• Several measurement modes included

What We Don’t Like

• Bottom isn’t perfectly flat
• Laser wasn’t straight for some users

Specs

• Range 196 feet
• Display Backlit LED
• Connectivity None

Portability and affordability are important considerations for some folks, and this model offers both. The Atolla device is compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, a tool box, or a bag, and is affordable enough that nearly any DIYer will want to consider it. Its adjustable wrist strap can be set to the ideal size to ensure that it doesn’t slip off the user’s wrist.

The Atolla water-resistant laser distance meter can measure accurately to within 1/16 inch up to a maximum distance of 196 feet. It features several measurement modes, including single measurement, continuous measurement, area, distance, volume, and Pythagorean mode. The backlit LCD screen is easy to see, and the built-in level helps properly align the laser with the targeted point in the distance.

The Atolla laser distance meter isn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but it proved to be an excellent value during testing. First, the bottom isn’t completely flat, so it does rock a bit when trying to get a measurement. Also, the laser wasn’t straight. But compared to the other models, neither issue affected its accuracy. It offers most of the same calculations, including length, area, and volume. We also liked that it’s relatively compact for such a budget-minded laser measure. 

Get the Atolla laser measure at Amazon.

Upgrade Pick

Bosch GLM400CL Blaze Outdoor 400-Foot Laser Measure

See It

What We Like

• Video viewfinder is ideal for long-distance measuring tasks
• Has the longest measuring range in the test
• Fully digital menu provides ample user-friendliness

What We Don’t Like

• Lots of beeping (but it can be turned off)

Specs

• Range 400 feet
• Display Backlit, plus video viewfinder
• Connectivity Bluetooth

This outdoor laser measure from Bosch has a robust, reinforced glass screen that’s anti-scratch, glare-resistant, and shatter-resistant, which protects it and makes it easier to read the measurement results in bright light. It has several measurement options as well as built-in data storage capable of keeping the last 50 measurements and more than 600 images. 

Bluetooth connectivity allows users to transmit collected measurements wirelessly through the free Bosch app, which can also create custom blueprints. This device can measure accurately to within 1/16 inch with a maximum distance of up to 400 feet. It also has a built-in camera with an adjustable zoom so users can locate the laser at a long distance when outdoors, despite the light from the sun.

During testing, the GLM400CL appeared to have everything one could want from a laser measure. For one, the 400-foot range is excellent for outdoor calculations. The menu is fully digital, so swapping between area, volume, distance, stakeout, and other settings is simple. Also, the video viewfinder is incredibly useful in pulling measurements from long distances. Unfortunately, every button press emits a beep, and this model’s beep drove my dog (who often works with me) up a wall. Fortunately, for both my pooch and myself, I was able to turn it off (30 beeps later).h me) up a wall. Fortunately, for both my pooch and myself, I was able to turn it off (30 beeps later).

Get the Bosch Blaze laser measure at Amazon, Lowe’s, or DK Hardware.

Best Compact

Leica Disto E7100i Laser Distance Measure

See It

What We Like

• Thinnest model in the test
• Bluetooth connectivity provides user-friendliness and sharing capabilities
• Detachable pocket clip assists with portability
• Perfectly flat bottom for easy measuring

What We Don’t Like

• No volume calculation included in the model
• App is a little frustrating to use

Specs

• Range 200 feet
• Display Backlit LED
• Connectivity Bluetooth

Anyone looking for a compact laser measure that they can keep in a pocket or a tool belt will want to give the Leica Disto E7100i some serious consideration. This model has a measuring range of up to 200 feet (with a claim of 1/16-inch accuracy at that distance). It comes with a detachable pocket clip as well as Bluetooth connectivity. 

Also, the Leica Disto E7100i features a min/max function that allows the user to sweep the laser measure across a corner while it records only the longest measurement, offering extreme accuracy. It also has length and area measurements.

Testing proved that the Leica Disto is clearly a precise machine; its compact design does not affect its accuracy. We liked the pocket clip that can grip onto the lip of a tool bag, and it detaches easily. The bottom of this model is dead flat, so placing it against a surface and getting a quick, accurate measurement was a breeze. The only cons were that, despite the product description, we could not find a “volume” mode on this laser. Also, the Disto Plan app was a little frustrating to use; it wasn’t as easy to swap between metric and imperial measurements as it was on the actual laser.

Get the Leica Disto E7100i laser measure at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Pros

DeWalt Tool Connect 100-Foot Laser Distance Measurer

See It

What We Like

• Best app in the test
• Suitable for those who need to save measurements
• Simple functionality for first-time pros or DIYers
• Hard to lose, with large, durable construction

What We Don’t Like

• Bottom isn’t flat; may not suit some users’ needs

Specs

• Range 100 feet
• Display Backlit negative LED
• Connectivity Bluetooth

This DeWalt laser measuring tool is an option for professionals who need an easy-to-use device to take quick measurements of 100 feet or less. It has only five buttons to learn, and the entire device is covered in a thick, durable protective cover to help keep the laser measure safe from scratches and impact damage if it’s dropped. 

The device can take and send measurement data through an active Bluetooth connection. The brand’s Tool Connect app collects and stores data for use in creating new projects like flooring or painting. It also can be used to export the project, saving pros time and effort that might otherwise include drawing a plan by hand.

The reason why the DeWalt laser distance meter is the best for pros truly boils down to its app. Pros who use the DeWalt Tool Connect app won’t have to add an additional app or confuse matters with another interface, and that’s a real “pro.” It was also the best app in the test, as it was the easiest to use once it was set up. The laser was simple to use, with very few buttons and easy functionality (despite having more functions than some more expensive models). We also like that it’s yellow, so it is harder to misplace. The only issue we had is that the bottom is not flat, so it wobbles quite a bit when held against a surface.

Read our full review: DeWalt Tool Connect 100-Foot Laser Distance Measurer

Get the DeWalt laser measure at Amazon or Acme Tools.

Best Hybrid

Lexivon 2-in-1 Digital Laser Tape Measure

See It

What We Like

• Convenient 2-in-1 distance and tape measure design
• Digital display is surprisingly clear
• Simple 1-button design is perfect for first-time users

What We Don’t Like

• Magnet in hook is very weak

Specs

• Range 130 feet
• Display Backlit negative LCD
• Connectivity None

When it comes to convenient design, it’s hard to beat the Lexivon two-in-one digital laser tape measure. This model has a built-in tape measure, allowing the user to pull measurements up to 16 feet. But, should the user want a faster method or a longer measurement, the laser measure can handle them up to 130 feet.

There aren’t many other bells and whistles to the Lexivon tape measure, but that’s part of its beauty. Its one-button design makes it easy to use, and it was just as accurate as other models. The digital display was very easy to read as well, despite this being a relatively affordable and simple tool. Our only complaint about this distance and tape measure is that it doesn’t have any function other than length, so volume, area, and angled measurements require old-school paper-and-pencil calculations.

Get the Lexivon laser measure at Amazon.

Best Range

Leica Disto D2 Laser Distance Measure

See It

What We Like

• Memory access is very easy
• Suitable for sharing measurements
• Easy to use and connect to a smartphone
• Flat bottom for easy readings in certain spaces

What We Don’t Like

• The app is frustrating to use

Specs

• Range 330 feet
• Display Backlit LED
• Connectivity Bluetooth

When it comes to long measurements, Leica’s Disto D2 laser distance measure might be the tool for the job. This laser measure features a maximum measuring range of 330 feet, so it is as suitable for outdoors as it is for indoor work. 

The Leica Disto D2 has plenty of functionality as well, offering length, area, volume, and Pythagorean functions. It also connects to the Leica Disto Plan app through Bluetooth. The backlit LED display is easy to read.

During testing, the Leica Disto D2 was accurate and easy to use. We did struggle with a few of the settings (the Pythagorean theory setting, specifically), but the instructions cleared up the questions. Also, the backlit display on this Leica Disto D2 was very clear, and the dead-flat bottom made grabbing a quick measurement a breeze. Again, the Leica Disto Plan app was a little more difficult to use than the actual laser, but connecting the laser measure to a phone was very easy.

Get the Leica Disto D2 laser measure at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Lightweight

Klein Tools Compact Laser Distance Measure

See It

What We Like

• Backlit display is easy to read
• Easy to use and cycle through the settings
• Fits in a shirt or pants pocket easily

What We Don’t Like

• Only has distance measurements

Specs

• Range Up to 100 feet
• Display Backlit LCD
• Connectivity None

The Klein Tools compact laser distance measure is worth considering for anyone looking for a lightweight, pocket-ready laser measure. This tool weighs just 2.3 ounces, so it can sit easily in a shirt or vest pocket, or it can be clipped to a pants pocket without weighing the user down. And despite its size, it has a range of up to 100 feet.

This laser measure is simple to use. It has one button that toggles through the different settings: beep or silent, auto shutoff, measure, or continuous measure. It doesn’t do any complicated functions like Pythagorean calculations, however, but it does store the last three measurements right on the backlit screen. 

We found the beauty of the Klein Tools compact laser distance measure in its simplicity. It doesn’t have a bunch of buttons or complicated functions, so we could simply take it out, grab a measurement, and move on. It’s also weather- and dust-resistant, so it should hold up to some basic outdoor hazards. We found the small backlit screen was actually quite easy to see as well. But if users need area or volume numbers, they’ll want to bring a pen and paper as this laser measure doesn’t offer anything but distance measuring.

Get the Klein Tools laser measure at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Function

Mileseey Outdoor Laser Distance Meter With Camera

See It

What We Like

• Incredible number of functions and measurements to use
• Built-in camera keeps track of what measurements represent
• Includes carrying case and recharging cord

What We Don’t Like

• Great functions, but their labeling doesn’t make sense
• We had Bluetooth connectivity issues

Specs

• Range 330 feet
• Display Backlit LED and picture display
• Connectivity Bluetooth

When it comes to functions, the Mileseey 330-foot laser might take the cake. This model’s functions include distance, volume, area, several Pythagorean theorem calculations, angles, round area and volume, stakeout, and more. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in camera, and an auto-rotate display.

The Mileseey comes with a carrying case as well as a recharging cord. It’s weather- and dust-resistant, features tripod compatibility, and has a large picture display that functions with the camera. 

One of us tested a Mileseey laser measure in the past, and to be honest, we hated it. It was inaccurate and clunky. Luckily, Mileseey solved the accuracy problem, because this model is excellent. We found the sheer number of calculations available meant we’d probably never need a pen and paper or calculator to measure large objects of all shapes and sizes again. Also, the camera helped us keep track of what each measurement represents. 

But, it’s still a little clunky. None of the icons make sense, so cycling through them is somewhat hit or miss. Also, we could not get the Bluetooth to connect to our phone, and even the Mileseey product videos hint that it might not work with all devices. 

Get the Mileseey laser measure at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Laser Measures

Before getting our hands on our top picks for testing, we interviewed Matt Mace, a drafter and interior designer for HartmanBaldwin, a full-service architecture, construction, and interior design company serving Los Angeles and Southern California, who says that laser measures can vary greatly in price point, so shoppers will want to consider what they would be using one for. “The complexity and power of the laser measure will determine its maximum distance. It is likely that the more expensive the unit, the greater the distance capabilities it will have.” 

Mace goes on to say that “for the more technologically advanced, spending a little more can get you a unit that has Bluetooth capabilities that works in conjunction with a smartphone application to generate a floor plan automatically, and in real time.” We took this advice when selecting our range of products to test, ensuring that we had picks for both DIY and more professional applications. 

The number of measurements we pulled during testing numbered well into the hundreds. We tested length, area, volume, level, and every other function we could—many times. 

The first test included taking a measurement across three rooms, from the front door to the back of the house. Next, we used the laser measures to calculate the square footage of a room. We pulled each measurement from the exact same spots to ensure the laser measures were given a fair chance. Each measure from the laser measures that made our list proved to be accurate. After testing area measurements, we went with the volume test, which these models also passed. 

For laser measures with extra features like Bluetooth or an extended range, we waited until the end of the test to dig in and see how they worked. We downloaded apps, connected our phones, and used the long-range features on nearby buildings to get a full scope of what these models could do.

What to Consider When Choosing a Laser Measure

There are many choices when it comes to laser distance measures for DIYers and professionals. To help weed through the options, consider a few key features when comparing laser measuring devices since different characteristics are important for different types of projects. The following factors may help you find the right tool for the job.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Use

While most laser tape measures are only suited for measuring distance indoors, there are some products that are specifically for outdoor use. Most outdoor models can measure longer distances, but the laser light of the measure doesn’t change in any way. However, the bodies of outdoor models need to be able to stand up to rain, snow, and fluctuating temperature extremes.

This weather resistance helps prevent the interior of the tool from becoming damaged by moisture buildup, and the tightly sealed case helps keep out dust. However, the upgraded case comes at a cost, so users can expect to pay more for an outdoor laser measure.

Accuracy and Range

The accuracy and measurement range are typically listed together, with most products claiming an average accuracy rating to within ⅛ inch at a distance of 50 feet. However, some laser distance measures can accurately measure much longer distances (up to 320 feet). Just remember that as the distance increases, accuracy can begin to falter. Mace has some advice: “When taking a series of measurements in the same location, the smallest of the measurements is the truer number because angles will have a longer distance, in most cases.”

Laser measures rated for use at long distances often have a higher degree of accuracy, with many products capable of accurately measuring to within 1.6 millimeters or 1/16 inch. This increase in accuracy is often due to a stronger laser, which usually comes with a higher price tag. 

Functionality 

When selecting a laser distance measurer, consider the tool’s various functions that may help make a project as efficient and successful as possible. Those who have no experience using a laser distance measure might want to consider a model with detailed operating instructions or one with very basic functionality. 

A laser measure’s basic job is to simply measure the distance between two points, but some measurers can perform additional specialized functions:

• Some laser distance measures contain an integrated calculator that uses the length and width measurements to provide the area of the room, which is necessary for flooring projects.
• Other products can calculate volume using multiple laser measurements, which is helpful, for example, when determining the type of heater needed for a specific space.
• Still other laser measures contain a Pythagorean measurement function that uses known proportions to find an unknown length or distance. 

Most laser measuring tools operate with the push of a button, though some provide a continuous or an automatic measurement while the operator moves around to find the ideal angle without needing to take multiple measurements. This is useful for quickly measuring the length, width, and height of a room.

Display

A bright display with text that’s easy to read in dim lighting is an integral feature of a laser distance measurer. If the display is backlit, the text is easier to see in both direct sunlight and low-light conditions.

Laser measuring devices may display only a few numbers to indicate the distance and the unit of measurement. Or, the displays may be more complex, featuring multiple menus, functionalities, and accuracy settings. Some even have rotating screens to make it easier to see the readings from any position.

Connectivity and Storage

The best laser tape measure is often equipped with a continuous measure feature and the ability to transfer data from the device to a computer; this is handy for multiple measurements like stairway length and riser heights, for example. Upgraded models have an extended measuring range, and they may be capable of indirect measurement with the Pythagorean measurement function, keeping all information stored safely on the device.

Laser measuring tools might also come with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows the stored measurements to be transferred wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet, saving time and effort. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to properly connect the device. 

Additional Features

The best laser measuring tools aren’t just about the basics. They can include a range of additional features to help make the laser measure easier to use and more convenient for users, including a battery life indicator, sound alerts, automatic shutoff, and holsters. 

• Battery life indicators are usually simple visual symbols that are displayed on the screen to tell the user how much battery life is remaining. They may begin to flash or trigger a sound alert when the battery gets too low. 
• Sound alerts can be used to notify the user about a low battery, to indicate that the device is ready to take a measurement, or to simply alert the user when the laser measure has successfully taken the intended measurement.
• The automatic shutoff function of a laser measure saves battery life. When the tool is idle for a certain period of time, it shuts down to conserve energy but typically stores the previous readings. 
• Holsters may not add anything to the functionality of the device, but having a holster for the laser measurer makes it easier to carry, put away, or access when necessary. 

The Advantages of Owning a Laser Measurer

Adding a laser distance measure to your tool box or workshop helps make many home renovation projects easier to complete. A laser measurer can produce an accurate measurement at long distances, unlike a metal tape measure that may slip or sag if not properly supported at both ends.

Not only do these devices deliver better accuracy than regular tape measures, but they also can be recalibrated. Many laser distance measures provide the ability to measure area, volume, or even triangular shapes. Plus, their compact size makes them easy to carry, store, and use. 

Tips for Using a Laser Measure

Laser measuring tools are impressive tools that can make it easier to take long measurements. However, as the distance between objects increases, any slight alteration to the laser measure can change the measurement. To help ensure that the laser measure is lined up properly, use a piece of painter’s tape or a sticky note as a target. 

Outdoor measurements with a laser measure can also be difficult because the laser can get lost in bright sunlight, making it hard to see if it’s properly aligned. Some laser measures have a built-in viewfinder or an external viewfinder to help users locate the laser and line it up.

After using the laser measure, make sure to properly clean it. These tools rely on the uninterrupted beam of light, so any dirt or debris on the tool can block a portion of the laser, reducing the accuracy of the tool. 

• For accurate measurements, consider using a small target, like a sticky note, on the opposite side of the distance being measured. 
• Use a viewfinder to help track down the laser on the target surface in bright light. 
• Before putting it away in a tool box, clean the laser measure to continue to get the best results.

FAQs

Meet the Tester

Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He also owns and operates a pest control blog, RiddaBugs.com. 

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.

The post After Testing These 9 Laser Measures, Our Top Pick is a Must-Have appeared first on Bob Vila.

Dovetail jigs are indispensable when it comes to cutting matched pieces of corner joints for woodworking projects. They clamp workpieces in place, allowing users to run a router along a cutting template to create an interlocking joint that looks like a series of bird’s tails. Dovetail joints are very strong and stable with plenty of surface area for gluing. A dovetail router jig makes it possible to create perfect dovetail joints time and again. But these tools can be quite expensive, and not all are easy to use. So we did the research to find which options professional and amateur woodworkers preferred, then tested four of the most popular dovetail jigs on the market. 

The Porter-Cable Deluxe Dovetail Jig was our favorite. It is not the cheapest option, but it is very well built, accurate, and comes with an assortment of templates to make different kinds of dovetail joints, so it’s our first choice overall. Many readers may find one of the other, simpler models we tested better suited to their needs. In this review, we will share our observations from testing four of the best dovetail jigs on the market, detail a few other great options that we didn’t get to test, and highlight the essential shopping considerations to help you choose the right one for your shop.

1. BEST OVERALL: Porter-Cable 4216 12-Inch Dovetail Jig Kit
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: General Tools 861 E-Z Pro Dovetail Jig
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3. BEST FOR BEGINNERS: Rockler 22818 Complete Dovetail Jig
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4. BEST FOR ROUTER TABLE: Leigh RTJ400 Router Table Jig 
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5. BEST FOR HALF-BLIND DOVETAILS: Porter-Cable 4210 12-Inch Dovetail Jig
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6. MOST VERSATILE: Leigh Super12 12-Inch Dovetail Jig
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7. BEST FOR LARGE PROJECTS: Porter-Cable 4212 12-Inch Dovetail Jig
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8. BEST FOR SMALL WORKSHOPS: Keller 1500 Journeyman Dovetail Jig
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