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

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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

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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

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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

See It

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.

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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
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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

We attached the nozzles to garden hoses and cranked up the water pressure, noting how easily they connected, whether they dribbled (no one likes that!), and how well each of the spray functions performed. We watered grass, potted plants, and raised beds in our quest to determine which nozzles would earn a spot in this lineup of the best hose nozzles. After all that testing, we chose the Green Mount New Patent Garden Hose Nozzle as our top pick. It earned that spot as a result of its ergonomic design and the fact that it didn’t leak even a little.

Keep reading to learn some essential tips for choosing the best hose nozzle, and find out the best (and worst) aspects of each of the following products before selecting the right one for your yard and garden this year.

1. BEST OVERALL: Green Mount New Patent Heavy-Duty Hose Nozzle
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2. RUNNER-UP: Twinkle Star Heavy-Duty Brass Adjustable Hose Nozzle
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Gilmour Pistol-Grip Adjustable Watering Nozzle
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4. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Dramm Adjustable Hose Nozzle
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5. BEST WAND: The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand
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6. BEST ERGONOMIC: Green Mount Ergonomic Handle Fireman’s Hose Nozzle
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7. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Gilmour Heavy Duty Thumb-Control Nozzle
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8. BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Esow Garden Hose Nozzle
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9. BEST FOR POTS: Dramm One-Touch Rain Wand
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10. BEST HEAVY USE: Fanhao Garden Hose Nozzle
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Product Comparison

Our Top Picks 

With so many hose nozzles on the market, selecting one can be tough. We put these nozzles through their paces, and we didn’t pull any punches so that our readers will have a good shot at getting a nozzle likely to perform well for years. All the nozzles that earned a spot in our lineup are GHT, so they’re all suitable for garden hoses in the U.S., and each one is a standout in its class.

Best Overall

Green Mount New Patent Heavy-Duty Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Pistol
• Material: High-density ABS plastic
• Spray variations: Spray, mist, jet, shower, soaker, cone, and flat 

What We Like

• Nonslip ergonomic grip prevents strain on the users’ hands and arms 
• Fireman-type water-adjustment handle for ease of use 
• Durable construction prevents any leaks or drips 

What We Don’t Like

• Handle is slightly stiff but may loosen up over time  

DIY gardeners looking for a high-quality garden hose nozzle may want to check out Green Mount’s heavy-duty hose nozzle. We were certainly impressed. This hose nozzle features a large on-off handle with an ergonomic design that’s easy to grip and a pistol-grip-style handle for control. We were able to select from six spray options by twisting the selector ring, including jet, mist, soaker, and shower. We then adjusted the amount of water pressure by moving the handle forward or backward. 

The Green Mount nozzle connected to the hose easily, and it didn’t leak anywhere—not where it attached to the hose and not at the nozzle openings, which was refreshing because we’ve used nozzles that dribbled so much, our sleeves would be soaked. 

The construction of this Green Mount nozzle is mostly ABS plastic, making it impact-resistant and durable, but it also features a metal nozzle housing and hose fitting. It comes with a metal mesh screen that users can remove to clear clogged sediment from the nozzle. This garden hose nozzle is well suited for those with various watering needs. The spray options can provide a robust stream of water to clean off sidewalks, a gentle mist for delicate plants, such as orchids, and a soaker for quickly watering large potted plants or shrubs. 

Get the Green Mount heavy-duty hose nozzle at Amazon or Walmart.

Runner-Up

Twinkle Star Heavy-Duty Brass Adjustable Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 3/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Twist
• Material: Heavy-duty brass
• Spray variations: Fluctuates between jet and cone

What We Like

• No-leak performance; heavy-duty construction lasts for a long time 
• Easy to hold; long design is comfortable 
• 4 adjustable spray pattern options integrated to suit any user’s preference 
• Comes in a 2-pack

What We Don’t Like

• No padded grip; may not be ideal for some users 

If we could only use two words to describe this pair of Twinkle Star twist nozzles, they’d be “rugged” and “dependable.” Some might call these old-fashioned nozzles, but there’s nothing stodgy about high performance. 

Each nozzle features rubber O-rings, located in the fitting attachment and in the twisting part of the nozzle, for maximum protection against leaking. There are also four holes in the tip of the nozzle, allowing for twice the water flow of a typical brass nozzle. It was easy to connect the nozzles to the hose, and neither one leaked. 

We twisted the nozzles to adjust the water flow to choose between a wide cone of spray, a powerful jet of water, and various shower-type pressures in between. There are no frills with these nozzles, just solid performance. 

Get the Twinkle Star hose nozzles at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Gilmour Pistol-Grip Adjustable Watering Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 2/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.3/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Pistol
• Material: Zinc
• Spray variations: Adjustable from narrow jet to wide cone with spray variations in between

What We Like

• Well made and functional; ergonomic design prevents fatigue during long periods of use 
• Easy to adjust water pressure via the integrated trigger
• Front threads adapt to optional spray tips to suit users’ preferences 

What We Don’t Like

• No padded or nonslip grip; may cause some strain to the hands if used frequently 

A simple solution to watering control, the all-metal Gilmour pistol-grip nozzle is budget-friendly and durable. It has a small flow-control dial that helps users adjust the water force. Choose from full flow, cone spray, or a sharp stream that’s designed for cleaning tough messes. The Gilmour nozzle is made from zinc to resist rusting. This is another no-frills spray nozzle that offers good performance in a tried-and-true style. 

Initially, when we connected the Gilmour nozzle, we had some leaking at the fitting, but upon inspection, we’d overlooked putting the black rubber washer inside the fitting. We added the washer and experienced no more leaks. 

A threaded front makes it easier to attach cleaning tools, such as specially designed brushes (not included) for scouring patio furniture, bicycles, and other grimy gear. The trigger-style nozzle has a metal loop at the top of the trigger that locks it in place to make gripping more comfortable, but in truth this isn’t the most comfortable nozzle to use. It’s not padded and doesn’t have a nonslip grip. Yet we still believe this simple watering nozzle is a good product and an excellent price. 

Get the Gilmour pistol-grip hose nozzle at Amazon or Little Hardware.

Best Heavy-Duty

Dramm Adjustable Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 2/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.2/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Twist 
• Material: Brass
• Spray variations: Adjustable from mist to jet 

What We Like

• High-quality design; long nozzle with twist adjustment allows for ample customization 
• Powerful water-jet ability; perfect for washing as well as watering 
• Sturdy brass design provides no leaks and is built to last

What We Don’t Like

• No padding or nonslip grip; may cause some fatigue over prolonged use 

The second twist nozzle we tested—the Dramm adjustable hose nozzle—proved to be a modest but highly efficient watering tool. A twist of the barrel was all it took to regulate the spray pattern on this all-brass nozzle. When we ran full water pressure, the Dramm nozzle narrowed the stream of water to a high-pressure jet that quickly removed dried mud from a concrete patio. 

When we twisted the nozzle in the other direction, it went from jet to mist and between the two extremes ran through a range of shower-like options. 

The Dramm is made from solid brass, and it didn’t leak at the nozzle end or the hose end during testing. This hardworking nozzle is designed to last, and it can serve a range of watering needs with just a simple twist.

Get the Dramm adjustable hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best Wand

The Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand

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Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Watering wand
• Material: Steel and molded plastic
• Spray variations: 8 (one malfunctioned during testing due to perceived manufacturing error)

What We Like

• Extended reach for watering baskets and pots and cleaning
• Ergonomic nonslip grip is ideal for frequent or long-term use 
• Comes with 8 easy-to-change spray patterns
• Thumb control for easy adjustments to the water pressure 

What We Don’t Like

• Some users have reported that one of the spray patterns is prone to malfunction 

Hose wands can be extremely helpful when watering hanging baskets and hard-to-reach plants. At 15 inches long, the Relaxed Gardener Watering Wand proved to be just the right length to access high baskets while still being easy to handle and store. It has a nonslip ergonomic grip, and we were able to adjust water pressure via the thumb lever. 

We scrolled through eight different watering spray patterns by turning the ring at the end of the nozzle. The shower and soaker patterns are excellent on this watering wand, but the Center option dribbled and sprayed off to one side. We inspected the head, and it appeared that something hard was stuck in that specific spray opening—perhaps lodged during manufacturing. We decided that this must have been a fluke, not an inherent design flaw.

The watering wand attached easily to the hose and didn’t leak except for that “center” spray setting. The wand simplified watering high baskets and potted plants while offering a range of other spray patterns that would be suitable for newly seeded lawns, flower beds, and even vegetable gardens.

Get the Relaxed Gardener hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best Ergonomic

Green Mount Ergonomic Handle Fireman’s Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Twist 
• Material: Steel, rubber coating
• Spray variations: Adjustable, ranging from jet to mist with various shower functions in between

What We Like

• High-quality construction should last a user a long time 
• Large water pressure handle is suitable for multiple uses; perfect for watering, washing, and more 
• Rubberized grip is comfortable to hold for long periods of time 

What We Don’t Like

• Heavyweight compared to similar hose nozzles  

This sprayer nozzle excels at controlling water on even high-pressure hoses, yet while it weighs in at just under 2 pounds—about twice as heavy as the typical sprayer—it’s definitely built for comfort. This Green Mount nozzle features a large fire-hose-style handle that’s easy to grab and move, even with gloved hands, and it also has a nonslip rubber grip. 

Inside the attachment fitting, we found a screen designed to keep sand and dirt out of the sprayer. There’s a wide bell-shaped dial that we twisted one way and the other to change the spray pattern from a strong jet to a fine mist, with varying shower-type sprays in between. 

This nozzle boasts solid metal construction, so it should last multiple seasons without wearing out, and we felt it was very well made—no cut corners here. The only downside might be for those who experience hand or arm fatigue since the Green Mount nozzle may feel a tad heavy after a while. 

Get the Green Mount ergonomic hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best Lightweight

Gilmour Heavy-Duty Thumb-Control Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.2/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Pistol
• Material: Steel, rubber coating
• Spray variations: 8 (mist, shower, rinse, soft wash, clean, sweep, jet, and bucket-filling)

What We Like

• Quality construction; ergonomic and durable design for long-term use 
• Nonslip handle is comfortable to hold while in use 
• Swivel attachment ring can accommodate most garden hoses easily; no twisting required 

What We Don’t Like

• Separate steel ring on end of nozzle can be accidentally loosened 

Anyone hunting for a lightweight garden hose nozzle may want to give this model from Gilmour a look. Weighing under 10 ounces, it’s one of the lightest pistol-type nozzles we tested. It features eight spray patterns, including mist, shower, rinse, soft wash, clean, sweep, jet, and a bucket-filling setting—all patterns worked well.

Our favorite feature of the Gilmour nozzle was the swivel attachment ring that allowed us to connect it to the garden hose without twisting either the hose or the nozzle. It was simple to spin the attachment ring and securely attach the nozzle.

The thumb-control lever is handy to operate using the same hand holding the sprayer, but this nozzle does have one thing against it: a separate steel ring that holds the spray pattern adjustment ring in place. Rather than a single adjustment ring, the end of the sprayer features an additional steel ring that we inadvertently kept loosening when we twisted the spray adjustment ring. Each time that happened, water would dribble out from under the ring. It held better after we tightened the steel ring using some force, but we feel it would have been designed better without the additional steel ring.

Get the Gilmour thumb-control hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best Multipurpose

Esow Garden Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 3/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Pistol
• Material: Brushed steel and brass
• Spray variations: Adjustable from jet to mist 

What We Like

• High-quality materials; made with durable brushed steel and brass 
• Loop integrated for the holding trigger; keeps the water running without having to grip the trigger 
• Connects easily to standard garden hoses without leaking 

What We Don’t Like

• Trigger may be on the short side for some users’ preferences 

Right out of the package, the Esow hose nozzle displayed high-end workmanship. Its smooth steel exterior features a brushed finish for an ultrasmooth feel, and its solid brass nozzle tip turned smoothly. There was no mistaking the quality—it simply felt good to hold.

While it’s a basic hose nozzle in design, it features brass and zinc-alloy construction to resist corrosion and make it durable and impact resistant. Its pistol-grip and fine-tune nozzle adjustment make it well suited for multiple uses, from misting the flower bed to washing the car. The spraying patterns range from a jet stream for high pressure to a fan spray for covering a wide area. 

It connected easily to our hose, and we didn’t detect any leaks. However, the downside to this nozzle is the length of the trigger. Maybe we just have big hands, but the trigger is barely over 2 inches long with room for only two fingers. If we didn’t use the loop to hold the trigger in the “on” position, our fingers got a little sore after about 10 minutes of constant watering. Other than that, however, this is a top-notch hose nozzle. 

Get the Esow hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best for Pots

Dramm One-Touch Rain Wand

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Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 3/5; Durability 3/5; Value 3.5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Wand
• Material: Aluminum, rubber coating
• Spray variations: Shower (not adjustable) 

What We Like

• Long 16-inch wand for ample maneuverability in hard-to-reach places 
• Optimal for watering pots, washing the car, and/or cleaning the exterior of a home 
• Nonslip grip can be held comfortably for long periods of time without fatigue 

What We Don’t Like

• Only 1 spray pattern integrated; not as versatile as some other comparable options 

The Dramm rain wand has only one spray pattern: a gentle shower that’s just the ticket for watering potted plants. Those who have tried watering potted flowers and shrubs will likely agree that most other spray patterns are either too robust, too wide, or otherwise not well suited to pot watering. 

This product delivers a wonderful shower, and the pressure is controlled by a thumb lever at the top of an ergonomic, nonslip handle. The wand features a sloped head that let us reach overhead baskets without accidentally spraying on the other side. 

Those in the market for an adjustable spray pattern nozzle may want to look at other options, but folks who have a lot of pots to water will likely be quite happy with this Dramm wand. It’s simple to use and the gentle rain-like, pot-pleasing spray pattern never changes. 

Get the Dramm one-touch hose nozzle at Amazon.

Best Heavy Use

Fanhao Garden Hose Nozzle

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Our Ratings: Comfort 2/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 3.9/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Pistol
• Material: Brushed steel, brass, rubber coating
• Spray variations: 7 (center, flat, jet, shower, mist, cone, and full) 

What We Like

• Comes with 7 spray patterns; center, flat, jet, shower, mist, cone, and full
• Easy to connect to any standard garden hose without leaking 
• All-steel body components are durable enough to withstand frequent or heavy-duty use 

What We Don’t Like

• No rubberized grip; may be harsh on the hands after extended use 

Those looking for a heavy-duty hose nozzle won’t be disappointed with this Fanhao model. This nozzle features all-steel body components for durability and a high-density molded-plastic spray adjustment ring covered with rubberized nonslip coating. The sprayer’s brushed-steel finish is soft to the touch, and the trigger, which is nice and long for secure gripping, can be held in place while watering via an attached steel loop at the bottom of the handle. 

We liked the high-end construction of the Fanhao spray nozzle, although we would have appreciated a nonslip grip on the handle to match the one on the adjustment ring. When water from the spigot is bitterly cold, the chilly temp transfers through the steel handle of this sprayer, so a coated grip would have been nice. (Tip: Wear gardening gloves for a thermal-resistant barrier between the cold steel and hands). 

The Fanhao spray nozzle features seven spray patterns; center, flat, jet, shower, mist, cone, and full. Each one was distinct and functioned well without drips. Water pressure can be controlled with the hand trigger. This sprayer is well-made and designed to stand up to heavy use. If you want a spray nozzle that’s likely to last, it’s hard to go wrong with this one.

Get the Fanhao hose nozzle at Amazon.

Jump To Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Hose Nozzles

Hose nozzles are simple watering tools, but one that dribbles, leaks, or doesn’t spray as it should can be frustrating and take the fun out of gardening. Our goal in testing the top hose nozzle available today was to determine which performed best and which were well suited for various watering tasks. 

We examined each hose nozzle before use and read any accompanying information to make sure we fully understood its purpose and capabilities. To ensure they were working as intended, we checked all the moving parts—handles, spray selection rings, dials, and valves. We inspected the quality of the materials to help estimate potential durability. 

We attached each nozzle to the end of a standard garden hose and turned the water pressure up all the way (approximately 55 pounds per square inch, or PSI). We checked for leaks at the connection point as well as from the tip of the nozzle when using each of the available spray functions. 

We scored each nozzle using a rubric—awarding points between 0 and 4, depending on how well it performed. At the end of the testing, we added up the points and used them to categorize each nozzle for its best use. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Hose Nozzle

There are several things to keep in mind when it comes to selecting the best garden hose nozzles, but perhaps the single most important criteria is how you plan to use it. For example, a high-pressure nozzle that’s great for washing siding won’t deliver water optimally in the garden. We considered each of the following factors—and tested them when possible—to give our readers up-to-date information about each nozzle on our list.

Plastic vs. Metal 

Anything stored outside must endure a lot of wear and tear. However, hoses and their nozzles must withstand more than natural weathering; nozzles in particular may get dropped on hard surfaces or stepped on accidentally.

Plastic can crack when dropped and break down after prolonged sun exposure, while metal better stands up to impacts and the elements. Brass is a preferred material for metal hose nozzles due to its ability to resist corrosion. Some metal nozzles are dipped in a rubberlike coating, and others have a baked-on enamel finish; both methods add durability, protection, and longevity. 

For dependability and durability, avoid nozzles made entirely of plastic and consider metal or a plastic-and-metal hybrid. With inner components made of metal and exteriors constructed of molded plastic, hybrids are often lighter than their all-metal counterparts.

Spray Pattern 

In addition to water pressure adjustments, most hose nozzles come with adjustable spray patterns that allow users to change the amount and direction of the spray to match the specific watering situation. Need to water a pot? Just switch to the “shower” or “rain” option on the nozzle. Want to wash muddy paw prints from the patio? Switch to the nozzle’s jet function and spray the mess away.

If you’re looking for a versatile hose nozzle, one with a dial for switching between different spray patterns may be a good option. A dial generally provides a range of patterns, from a gentle mist perfect for moistening seeds to a high-pressure jet stream that blasts caked mud off the sidewalk. In addition to mist and jet, these nozzles often have several other patterns, including:

• Shower is ideal for watering the garden and container plantings.
• Flat is designed for fragile plants and young seedlings. 
• Cone offers the excellent coverage needed when watering the lawn before a fertilizer application, for instance.
• Soak is designed for watering large trees and shrubs. 

While these nozzles offer ample flexibility, if the large range of options is more than you need, a fitting alternative may be a basic metal nozzle that adjusts the spray from a fine mist to a powerful stream with a simple twist. 

Pistol vs. Dial 

The pistol grip is the most common type of hose nozzle; it has a squeeze trigger that activates water flow. When the trigger is released, the water flow stops. The amount of pressure applied to the trigger adjusts the water flow. Rotating a tiny flow adjuster above the trigger changes the spray from a mist to a jet stream. 

A dial nozzle suits those who want more options. The dial usually includes six or more spray patterns, which are adjustable with the turn of the dial on the front of the nozzle. This nozzle type might have a pistol grip or a simple molded handle with a button or a slider to adjust water flow. Both types allow the user to direct the water where needed rather than using a sprinkler that tends to oversoak one area while neglecting another. 

The Wand Alternative 

Nozzles suit many gardeners for a host of outdoor tasks. But for watering hanging baskets and plants in hard-to-reach places, or for those with physical limitations that make bending difficult, a watering wand might be an excellent solution. Like nozzles, wands come in numerous models, but their length sets them apart. Wands may be anywhere from 10 inches to 25 inches long, and some come with a hooked sprayer head to direct water downward into the pot when watering overhead.

Available in fixed length or telescoping, watering wands can have a single pattern spray head or a dial adjuster at the end. Some have a pistol grip to squeeze with one hand, and others use a button or slider to adjust the water flow. 

Another helpful feature included with some wands is a stop-valve trigger near the grip that lets the user control water flow from the watering wand, saving the walk to the faucet to turn it on and off. 

Ergonomics 

Ergonomic hand tools are designed to help users work pain-free. Comfort is an asset for anyone doing yard work and especially those with arthritis or strength issues in their hands and wrists. For example, maintaining constant pressure on a pistol or a trigger grip can take a toll on the hands, so many of the best garden hose nozzles are designed to stave off hand and wrist fatigue. 

No-press grips allow changing water flow with a simple button or a slider that can be manipulated with a thumb. Trigger nozzles often include a metal loop at the top of the trigger that can lock the handle in the spray position and take the pressure off a hand. 

Weight is another important consideration. All-metal construction nozzles, while very durable, are heavier than a hybrid made of metal and plastic. 

Hose Compatibility

There are more types of hoses than the one that hooks to a lawn and garden hose. Gardeners in the U.S. use a completely different hose thread system than everywhere else in the world, so compatibility with the hose on a hose reel is key. 

Nozzles sold to U.S. customers feature the standard garden hose thread (GHT) of ¾ inch. This means that the end of the hose has 11½ threads per inch and features a 1/16-inch thread pitch, which is the angle of the threads. 

For basic hose nozzles sold outside of the United States, the common thread in these countries is based on British Standard Pipe (BSP). These fittings are ¾ inch in diameter, and they feature 14 threads per inch. 

There also are quick-connect fittings that allow the user to snap a nozzle on and off a hose without unscrewing it. These nozzles will only work with quick-connect fittings on a hose, and they may not be necessary for the average gardener.

FAQs 

After learning about the different features of hose nozzles, some new questions might spring up. After all, there are a lot of choices on the market, and you still might not be sure which garden hose nozzle is ideal for you. This section aims to offer that info, as it answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the best hose nozzles.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

The post The Best Hose Nozzles for Leak-Free Gardening, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

Trash can sizes are described by volume and measured in gallons or liters. Once you have a better idea of the most common trash can sizes, you’ll be in a better position to choose the best trash can for any room in the house—and the right can sizes for your outdoor use, too.

1. 1- to 4-Gallon Trash Can

These small receptacles include the typical bathroom trash can as well as countertop composting containers and bins that can be suspended from a countertop, hung inside a cabinet, or mounted to a wall. Not only are these real space-savers, but their small size encourages frequent emptying, which cuts down on odors. Trash cans in this size range are also handy for lint disposal by the dryer or use in any room where small bits of trash accumulate slowly. Bathroom trash cans often come with hands-free lids, whether in the form of a sensor or a foot-activated lever, allowing the user to throw out waste without touching the can. They’re also available with swinging or tightly sealing lids, or no lid at all. Expect heights to top out around 15 inches with the lid closed, depending on the configuration and capacity of the can.

Note: If you’re shopping for a lidded trash can for a tight space, make sure there will be enough room for the lid to open fully.

Best For: Bathrooms, kitchen compost, hanging or wall-mounted kitchen bins, bedrooms

Our Recommendations:
For bathrooms: Simplehuman 1.2-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Step-On Trash Can at Amazon for $29.99 This highly rated receptacle features a removable inner bucket for easy disposal and comes in four finishes, including fingerprint-proof stainless.
For narrow spaces: Cesun 1.6-Gallon Small Bathroom Stainless Steel Trash Can With Lid, Soft Close and Step-On at Amazon for $34.97 Offering the twin convenience of a removable inner bucket and a narrow footprint, this rectangular can works well in tight spaces—for instance, next to the dryer or in that awkward spot between the toilet and vanity.
For bedrooms: Umbra Woodrow 2-Gallon Wooden Trash Can at Umbra for $30 This stylish wooden trash can has an integrated handle and comes in a range of appealing colors. 

2. 5- to 8-Gallon Trash Can

The 5- to 8-gallon trash can is a popular trash can size that works well in larger bathrooms, home offices, rec rooms, and even small kitchens. This is also a good option for a recycling bin stashed in a kitchen cabinet. Trash cans in this size range vary widely in height and style, offering an opportunity to use an otherwise utilitarian accessory to add a little whimsy or decorative flair to a room.

A trash can at the low end of this range could also be a practical addition to an entryway. Elissa Hall, lead designer at vacation rental management firm awning.com, notes, “Rather than allowing trash mail and packaging to clutter living areas, a compact, fashionable bin in the entryway is quite useful for disposal as you enter your home.” 

Best for: Larger bathrooms, small kitchens, offices

Our recommendations:
For the bathroom: Amazon Basics 5.3-Gallon Cylindrical Trash Can at Amazon for $49.31 A solid choice that ticks all the boxes: foot pedal operation, soft-close lid, brushed stainless steel finish, and a removable pail for easy clean-up.

For a small kitchen: Brabantia 8-Gallon NewIcon Step Trash Can at Brabantia for $105 A slim profile, colors that range from staid to playful, and a removable inner bucket make this a stylish option. 

For a home office: Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can at Amazon for $17.97 Just under 14 inches tall, this 5-gallon silver mesh basket fits tidily under a desk. The epoxy-coated steel receptacle has a vinyl ring at the bottom to protect floors from scratches.

3. 10- to 20-Gallon Trash Can

The 10- to 20-gallon trash can is the real workhouse in the trash collecting world. This is the size of the typical kitchen trash can, big enough to handle food scraps, food packaging, discarded paper goods, and other household garbage, but not so big that it takes up too much floor space. In the kitchen, this size trash can is almost always used with a standard 13-gallon trash bag or can liner, which keeps the can cleaner and makes trash disposal easier.

Depending on the size of a kitchen trash can and the configuration of the kitchen, the trash can may sit on the floor or be installed inside a cabinet and roll out on tracks. If kept out in plain sight, the kitchen trash can usually has a lid, typically operated by a pedal, touch, motion, or even voice. Hall recommends avoiding the tired, old plastic can with a swinging lid, or no lid at all: “The traditional fragile plastic bin…seems antiquated and sometimes attracts unpleasant comments. 

This size trash can is also a good fit in a craft room or homework space, and is a nice size for collecting recycling. 

Best for: Kitchens, craft rooms, recycling

Our recommendation: Simplehuman 10-Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can at Amazon for $99.99
A perennial online favorite, the Simplehuman can is available in brushed stainless steel, matte black, or white. The hinge on the quiet, slow-close lid prevents it from banging against the wall, and the lid can be set to stay open as long as needed, making it easier to change the trash bag.

4. 30- to 48-Gallon Trash Can

Cans in the 30- to 48-gallon size range are usually found outside, where their main job is to hold multiple bags of garbage securely beneath a lid until trash day.

These large outdoor trash cans can serve other purposes too. They’re great in the home workshop and for collecting yard debris like leaves and sticks. These are also the cans you stick out by the deck or porch when you’re hosting a party so your guests can toss out their discarded paper plates and other trash. Cans in this size range are usually a good fit for standard outdoor trash and contractor-style garbage bags. 

Best For: Outdoor trash and yard debris

Our Recommendations:
Loose lid: Roughneck 32-Gallon Easy Out Wheeled Trash Can at The Home Depot for $34.97 The Roughneck 32-gallon trash can features plenty of volume and built-in wheels for easy rolling. 

Hinged lid: Rubbermaid Commercial Products Brute Rollout Trash Can With Wheels at Amazon for $160.45 It’s pricey, but this 32-gallon can is also extremely sturdy. It features durable wheels and a hinged lid, and it’s compatible with automated curbside collection (but first check with your municipality).

5. 64- to 96-Gallon Trash Can

Very large trash cans, like those in the 64- to 96-gallon range, are for wheeling to the curb on trash day. They usually have large wheels and handles that make them easy to move. They usually feature hinged lids to trap odors and keep pests away; the attached lid has the added benefit of not getting lost or damaged on trash day.

Smaller households may be fine with a 64-gallon trash can (or even a can or two in the 32-gallon range) to handle a week’s worth of garbage, or several weeks’ worth of recycling. Cans larger than 64 gallons are best reserved for very large households or those with every-other-week trash pickup since they hold a lot of garbage.

Best for: Trash storage and garbage pickup services

Our recommendation: Toter Black 96-Gallon Can at The Home Depot for $124
With built-in wheels, a hinged lid, plenty of volume, and sturdy construction, the Toter 96-gallon can is great for large families or households with biweekly trash pickup. It’s designed to be compatible with automated and semi-automated curbside collection (but check with your municipality first).

When Does the Trash Can Really Need a Lid?

Outdoor garbage cans require lids, and hinged lids are usually best because loose lids are so easily lost or damaged. But do you need a lid for indoor trash cans? There are certainly rooms where a lid might get in the way of easy access to the can, such as kids’ rooms, the home office, or a rec room. But in any of the following situations, you probably want to opt for a lid:

• Wherever odor control is important, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
• Wherever food regularly gets tossed out, even if that’s a rec room or game room
• Wherever pests are a problem, such as bugs and mice in the kitchen
• Wherever pets like to graze, whether they swipe a chicken bone from the kitchen trash or smelly tissues from the bathroom
• Wherever aesthetics matter: Do you really want guests looking at your used cotton swabs?

Prices listed here are accurate as of February 11, 2025.

The post The Right Trash Can Sizes for Every Room of Your Home appeared first on Bob Vila.

Best Overall

Husqvarna E-Lift 50" 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment

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Best Bang for the Buck

Husqvarna Manual 42" 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment

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Best for Large Driveways

NorTrac 3-Pt. 72-76" Snow Blower Attachment

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Lawn mower snow blower combos offer a practical way for homeowners to get more out of their equipment, allowing them to cut grass in warmer months and add an attachment to blow snow in the winter season. But since this type of driveway- and lawn-maintenance equipment isn’t exactly cheap, it’s smart to spend time researching their key features to ensure you buy the right one for your needs. 

To simplify this process, we reviewed five excellent models and consulted a snow-removal expert for additional insights. Based on our efforts, we selected the Husqvarna E-Lift 50″ 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment as our top pick for its electric lift, toolless hookup and removal, and easily adjustable deflector and chute. Keep reading to compare our picks for the best lawn mower snow blower combos and learn which features matter most when choosing between them.

1. BEST OVERALL: Husqvarna E-Lift 50″ 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment
   ↓Jump to Review 
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Husqvarna Manual 42″ 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment
   ↓Jump to Review
3. BEST FOR LARGE DRIVEWAYS: NorTrac 3-Pt. 72-76″ Snow Blower Attachment
   ↓Jump to Review
4. BEST ELECTRIC LIFT: Husqvarna E-Lift 42″ Snow Blower Attachment
   ↓Jump to Review
5. ALSO CONSIDER: NorTrac 3-Pt. 50-54″ Snow Blower Attachment
   ↓Jump to Review

Before You Buy a Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo

Lawn mower snow blower combos are essentially large snow plow blades that turn a riding mower into a snow plow. Folks in warmer climates and areas that only get a small amount of snow can likely skip them in favor of a simple shovel or cordless snow blower. On the other hand, those who have large properties and see significant snowfall each year (and already own a garden tractor) may find that these attachments make their lives much easier. 

Still, since these units are typically several feet wide, weigh hundreds of pounds, and cost over $2,000, users will want to carefully consider compatibility, ease of attachment and removal, and storage space as part of the purchasing process. Also, if you don’t already own a riding mower, this will increase the cost, though you may be able to get a good deal on a used riding mower. Still, be careful the attachment you choose will work with your mower, as small lawn tractors may not have enough oomph to support them or may lose traction if the machine is too front-heavy. Also, some lawn mower snow blower combos are only compatible with mowers of the same brand. 

When it comes time to add the attachment to your mower, you will need to be knowledgeable and strong enough to remove the mower’s deck assembly and replace it with a pulley system that operates the snow blower. To make the installation and removal process easier, you may want to look for a model that runs off of your tractor’s power take-off (PTO) system. 

Our Top Picks

Each riding mower snow thrower attachment that made our list is one of the best options available to turn your lawn tractor into a snow plow.

Best Overall

Husqvarna E-Lift 50" 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment

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What We Like

• Replaceable wear plate and skid shoes
• Toolless hookup and removal (after initial installation)
• Deflector and chute angle adjust from the seat

What We Don’t Like

• Wheel weights and chains recommended

Specs

• Stage 2-stage
• Clearing capacity: 50 inches
• Compatibility Fits all Husqvarna lawn tractors

Folks looking for a lawn mower snow blower combo with all the features should check out Husqvarna’s E-Lift Snow Thrower Attachment. This snow blower has a 50-inch clearing capacity, which is enough for the typical Folks looking for a lawn mower snow blower combo with all the features should check out Husqvarna’s E-Lift 2-stage snow thrower attachment. This riding snow thrower has a 50-inch clearing capacity that’s more than enough for the typical driveway as well as a two-stage setup that allows it to handle heavy, deep snow. 

This lawn tractor with snow blower attachment got the award for best overall since it has a few extra features that make it especially desirable. Once initially installed, it can be hooked up or removed without tools. Users can raise and lower the snow blower and adjust the chute angle and deflector right from the seat. It’s also compatible with most Husqvarna models, though the manufacturer recommends adding wheel weights and chains to maintain traction.

Get the Husqvarna 50″ lawn mower snow blower combo at Lowe’s or Husqvarna.

Best Bang for the Buck

Husqvarna Manual 42" 2-Stage Snow Thrower Attachment

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What We Like

• Works as a snow blower for gravel driveways
• 180-degree adjustable chute
• Toolless attachment and removal after initial installation

What We Don’t Like

• Manual lift
• Initial installation is easier with at least 2 people

Specs

• Stage 2-stage
• Clearing capacity 42 inches
• Compatibility Fits all Husqvarna lawn tractors

The Husqvarna 42-inch manual lift snow thrower attachment is a two-stage option with a universal-fit design that works with all of the brand’s lawn tractors. It features a manual lift system, two 12-inch diameter serrated input augers that efficiently pull in snow, and a high-speed impeller that launches precipitation through the poly chute. 

Like our top pick, this model offers toolless attachment and removal after the initial installation of mounting brackets and pulley frame brackets. You can adjust the 180-degree chute and control the deflector from the seat, and the machine also features replaceable wear plates and skid shoes for long-lasting use. For best results, Husqvarna recommends adding wheel weights and chains. 

Get the Husqvarna manual lawn mower snow blower combo at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Husqvarna.

Best for Large Driveways

NorTrac 3-Pt. 72-76" Snow Blower Attachment

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What We Like

• Attaches to a 3-point hitch system on larger tractors
• Uses power take-off system instead of a pulley
• Massive clearing capacity up to 76 inches

What We Don’t Like

• Attaches to back of tractor
• Manual chute adjustment

Specs

• Stage 2-stage
• Clearing capacity 72 to 76 inches
• Compatibility 35- to 50-hp lawn tractors, category 1 hitch

Those looking to clear long or wide driveways with as few passes as possible might consider NorTrac’s 3-Point Snow Blower. This model attaches to heavy-duty tractors with a three-point hitch system, getting Those looking to clear long or wide driveways with as few passes as possible will want to consider this 3-point snow blower from NorTrac. Its 72-inch blower and bolt-on 4-inch wing kit can clear a path up to 76 inches wide and throw it 40 feet. It’s designed to fit lawn tractors with 35-to 50-horsepower (hp) engines and category 1 hitches and uses the tractor’s power take-off system to make installation and removal quick and easy. The two-stage system also features a chute that rotates up to 340 degrees, though you must adjust it manually unless you buy and install the optional hydraulic kit. 

One of the best things about this model is its versatility, as it will work with a range of tractor sizes. It also has adjustable skid shoes for precise height control and heavy-duty steel construction that stands up to harsh winter conditions. We also really like that it’s powered by the tractor’s PTO rather than a pulley system. If there’s a downside, it’s that it attaches to reach hitch, which could make use uncomfortable during extended jobs. 

Get the NorTrac 72-76″ lawn mower snow blower combo at Northern Tool + Equipment. 

Best Electric Lift

Husqvarna E-Lift 42" Snow Blower Attachment

See It

What We Like

• Electric lift system, chute, and angle adjustments
• 42-inch clearing capacity
• Toolless hookup and removal

What We Don’t Like

• Requires wheel weights and chain
• Only compatible with Husqvarna lawn tractors

Specs

• Stage 2-stage
• Clearing capacity 42 inches
• Compatibility Fits all 2006 and newer Husqvarna tractors

This 42-inch lawn mower with snow blower combo features an innovative electric lift mechanism that allows you to lift and lower the snow blower with just a push of a button directly from your seat. Not only that, its 12-inch dual serrated augers and 180-degree rotating chute also use electric adjustment, adding to user convenience and efficiency. 

Beyond its electric lift, this tractor with snow blower also features a two-stage design with high-speed impeller to pull snow in and propel it quickly through the durable poly chute. It fits all Husqvarna lawn tractors made in 2006 or later, and after its initial installation, you can attach and remove it without needing tools. Like the other models we recommend from this brand, the manufacturer recommends you add wheel weights and chains for optimal performance. 

Get the Husqvarna electric lift lawn mower snow blower combo at Lowe’s or Husqvarna.

Also Consider

NorTrac 3-Pt. 50-54" Snow Blower Attachment

See It

What We Like

• Versatile compact tractor snow blower
• Clears snow up to 20 inches deep
• Scraping edge is replaceable

What We Don’t Like

• Only throws snow about 20 feet
• Automatic chute adjustment requires additional purchase

Specs

• Stage 2-stage
• Clearing capacity 50 to 54 inches
• Compatibility 16- to 35-hp lawn tractors, category 1 hitch

If you liked the features offered by our pick for large driveways but need a more compact package, this model is worth considering. With a clearing width of up to 54 inches (including the bolt-on 4-inch wing kit), this model still moves plenty of snow with each pass. Similar to the other NorTrac model we love, it is compatible with a wide range of lawn tractors with category 1 three-point hitches and 16- to 35-horsepower engines. 

While we wish the 340-degree adjustable chute wasn’t manual-only without an additional purchase, we like that the attachment is powered by the tractor’s PTO rather than a pulley. Also, it only throws snow about 20 feet, but that’s likely sufficient for residential and light commercial use. Its body, auger, and discharge chute are made of steel for durability, and it has heavy-duty adjustable rear skid shoes and a replaceable scraping edge.

Get the NorTrac 50-54″ lawn mower snow blower combo at Amazon or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos 

To choose the best lawn mower snow blower combos, we began by drawing on our expertise regarding lawn mowers and snow blowers. We identified which features are absolutely essential for using a tractor with a snow blower and conducted thorough product research to find models that fit those criteria. With a pool of eligible models to choose from, we compared features, performance, price, and overall value, eliminating options that didn’t stack up. In the end, the only models we picked are the ones we’d actually buy for ourselves. 

You may have noticed that no all-in-one versions of a riding lawn mower with snow blower made our list. The current options on the market are either incredibly expensive or don’t offer enough power to be worth their price. For now, we think most DIYers will be better off choosing one of the best lawn tractors first and adding a compatible snow blower attachment second rather than ending up disappointed with an all-in-one machine. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo

Because they are undoubtedly one of the best tools for conquering snow and ice, lawn mower snow blowers come at a premium price. Purchasing one is a big decision that requires careful thought and research. However, when it comes to making quick and easy work of year-round maintenance tasks like lawn mowing and snow removal, they are nearly impossible to beat. To help you make a smart selection, we’ve outlined the features that matter most below. 

Number of Stages

Like traditional snow blowers, lawn tractor with snow blower combos come in a few different types, also known as stages. The stages refer to how the machine scoops and discharges the snow.

Single-stage snow blowers, or snow throwers, have an auger that grabs snow and pushes it out of the chute. They’re the most limited in the distance they can throw and the height of the snow they can handle.

Two-stage snow blowers have both an auger as well as an additional impeller. As the auger collects the snow and funnels it toward the chute, the impeller forces it out. These snow blowers can throw snow up to 50 feet or farther, especially when users lubricate the chute using a nonstick snow blower spray. 

Three-stage snow blowers have an auger, an impeller, and an additional grinder that shreds chunks of ice. They can throw snow extremely far but are often limited to commercial use since they’re so expensive. 

Compatibility and Horsepower

When choosing a riding lawn mower snow blower combo, compatibility with your lawn mower is essential. Smaller mowers may lack the power and traction necessary to maximize efficacy, and not all brands of attachments are compatible with all brands of mowers. 

To ensure compatibility, you may want to start by looking for a lawn mower snow blower combo that’s made specifically for the lawn mower’s model number. You can generally find this information on the manufacturer’s website, or you can call or email them for help. You’ll also want to make sure your garden tractor has sufficient horsepower (generally 16 hp or more) and may want either four-wheel drive or a set of tire chains.

Clearing Capacity

Lawn mower snow blower combo attachments come in various clearing capacities, which are the widths of the snow they can remove with each pass. Choosing the right size depends on the area that needs to be cleared and the power of the tractor.

For standard driveway snow removals, a 40- to 50-inch riding lawn mower with a snow blower should do the trick. This size snow blower doesn’t require a large, heavy-duty machine and can clear most driveways in three or four passes. 

For larger driveways and parking areas, a 50- to 60-inch lawn mower snow blower attachment will usually fit the bill. These require a bigger tractor but fewer passes to clear wider areas.

For very long driveways or large parking lots, a 60-inch or larger lawn mower snow blower combination will be ideal. Rather than needing you to make four passes to clear a given area, a snow blower with a wider clearing capacity may do it in two—half the amount of time. However, these machines require large tractors with 25 to 50 hp. 

Ease of Use 

Certain additional features may make some lawn mower snow blower combos easier to use than others. While these features are more about convenience than performance, finishing a big job quicker and with a bit more comfort can be a big deal on a cold day.

• Electric lift systems: these allow you to raise and lower the snow blower from the seat rather than forcing you to get off the machine and find the right height manually
• Adjustable chutes and deflectors: these allow you to change the angle of the discharge chute as you work, helping you blow snow in the direction you intend 
• Adjustable skid shoes and replaceable wear plates: these allow the snow blower to move along the ground without damaging the blade 

When we asked Francisco Fuenmayor, insured handyman and snow-removal expert at LocalProBook, which of these features he thinks makes the biggest difference during big jobs, he said, “An electric lift system is a game-changer, especially if you have back issues or are frequently adjusting the height of the snow blower. It saves a ton of effort compared to manually lifting and lowering the attachment.”

The Advantages of Owning a Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combo

Even with a traditional snow blower, removing snow from a long driveway can be exhausting. A lawn mower snow blower attachment makes the job easier by allowing you to sit down and steer instead of pushing a heavy machine. Combo units also have more power than standard snow blowers, enabling them to remove more snow without bogging down. Some models can handle more than 20 inches at a time.

In addition to power, lawn mower snow blower combos offer greater versatility. Unlike snow plows, they can navigate walkways and sidewalks, making them ideal for snow removal across an entire property. 

Lawn mower snow blowers are:

• Easier to use than traditional snow blowers
• Better for removing larger amounts of snow
• More versatile than plows or snow blowers alone

FAQs

The following section aims to answer any questions you may still have, covering topics like how deep snow combination machines can handle and whether lawn mowers and snow blowers use the same type of gas. 

The post Use Your Lawn Mower Year-Round With This Handy Attachment appeared first on Bob Vila.

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

See It

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

See It

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

See It

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

See It

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

See It

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

See It

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

See It

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.

Smoke detectors are a lot like income taxes: they need to be dealt with once a year, not a whole lot of people understand them, and issues with either can be particularly, well, alarming. Simple yet necessary heroes of home safety and security, smoke detectors tend to be forgotten until they go off (a good thing) or fail to function in an emergency (a potential tragedy). A well-functioning, high-quality smoke detector is essential for every household, so we researched more than 20 top models and put 15 to the test.

Our favorite was the X-Sense SC07 Wireless Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm. It monitors for smoke and carbon monoxide and has a large digital display showing the carbon monoxide parts per million. We also appreciated the slim, sleek design.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends at least one smoke detector for each floor of a home, as well as one in every bedroom. It’s important to become familiar with the types of detectors, how they operate, and some of the finer points of fire alarm technology. Read on to learn what you should look for in a smoke alarm and how we tested and selected the best smoke detectors.

1. BEST OVERALL: X-Sense SC07 Wireless Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Kidde i9050 Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. BEST IN TECH: Google S3003LWES Nest Protect Smoke and CO Detector
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4. BEST INTERCONNECTED: X-Sense Interconnected Wireless Smoke and CO Detector 
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5. BEST VOICE ALARM: First Alert SMCO210V Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm 
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6. HONORABLE MENTION: SimpliSafe Wireless Smoke Detector
   ↓ Jump to Review
7. ALSO CONSIDER: First Alert Z-Wave Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
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Smoke Detectors Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

These top picks include photoelectric, ionization, and dual-sensor smoke detectors to suit a variety of different needs. All are high-quality models currently on the market that we’ve tested ourselves.

Note: All of the following products feature battery operation, making them very easy to install. They’re also all Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed for safety.

Best Overall

X-Sense SC07 Wireless Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm

See It

What We Like

• Features a smoke and carbon monoxide sensor
• Digital display shows carbon monoxide parts per million (ppm)
• Sleek, modern design

What We Don’t Like

• Has a sometimes-faulty activation switch

Specs

• Type Photoelectric (smoke) and electrochemical (CO)
• Interconnect No
• CO detection Yes

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 5/5; Functionality 4/5; Value 4.3/5

The X-Sense SC07 combo alarm is a two-way player that would benefit many homeowners. This model features a photoelectric sensor that detects smoke particles and an electrochemical sensor that detects the presence of carbon monoxide. It also has a digital display that shows the carbon monoxide parts per million (ppm) in the air as well as the battery’s status. This lends a sleek design that will easily fit in with modern spaces.

The real star of the show is the display, which clearly indicates the level of carbon monoxide in the air when it’s more than 30 ppm (if it’s under that amount, it registers as 0). While a sensor capable of reading lower levels would be better, we still find this reassuring. 

We’re not, however, a big fan of this model’s activation switch. While it worked perfectly on the model we tested, we have broken that switch on previously tested X-Sense models, so we would still caution users to be very gentle with it. Otherwise, we felt this was the best overall smoke detector. Plus, an interconnected version is available. 

What our tester says: “This device triggered within 10 seconds during testing—an impressively fast response—though it did take a while to silence.”—Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the X-Sense SC07 smoke detector at Amazon or X-Sense.

Best Bang For The Buck

Kidde i9050 Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm

See It

What We Like

• Affordable price point
• Loud alarm is audible throughout the home
• One of the easiest models to silence

What We Don’t Like

• 10 seconds slower to alert than other devices

Specs

• Type Ionization
• Interconnect No
• CO detection No

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 3/5; Functionality 4/5; Value 4.3/5

A hardwired, Wi-Fi, or interconnected fire alarm system can be expensive, but thanks to the affordable price of the Kidde i9050, users can equip their entire home with smoke detectors without zeroing out their bank accounts. Powered by a 9-volt battery, this basic ionization-style model is hardly a high-tech option, but it’s a reliable choice for smoke detection.

Considering the budget-friendly price, we were skeptical about how well this alarm would perform during testing. While it did perform roughly 10 seconds slower than other devices, its alarm sounded within 25 seconds, and the siren was loud. Also, we were able to silence this alarm much faster than devices that cost four times the price. It truly offers the best value for dollar of any detector on the list, though it doesn’t offer many special features.

Get the Kidde i9050 smoke alarm at Amazon or Walmart.

Best in Tech

Google S3003LWES Nest Protect Smoke and CO Detector

See It

What We Like

• Crystal-clear voice alerts
• Reports to a phone app
• Better looking than other detectors
• Dual-sensor smoke alarm

What We Don’t Like

• Tricky to connect the device to the app
• Must keep app updated

Specs

• Type Split-sensor, which acts as both photoelectric and ionization
• Interconnect Yes
• CO detection Yes

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 2/5; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Equipped with the latest technology, Google’s Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide alarm ties into existing hardwired systems and features Wi-Fi communication. Users can program the alarm so it will indicate the location in the home where an alarm is being triggered via both the Nest app and the built-in speaker. It uses dual-sensor technology to detect both smoldering burns and flaming fires. 

In our tests, we found the Nest Protect’s voice activation to be clear and the alarm to be fast. We also liked the appearance of this Wi-Fi smoke detector and appreciated that the baseplate offers quite a bit of rotational adjustment to ensure that it is straight when installed. Connecting the detector to the Nest app took a couple of tries, though. 

There’s a larger caveat regarding this smart smoke alarm and similar models that work with smart-home systems: Their compatibility with those systems depends on app updates, which means users must remember to keep up-to-date on apps. If the app is an old version, the detectors might fail to communicate with a smartphone or central monitoring service. 

Get the Google smoke detector at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.

Best Interconnected

X-Sense Interconnected Wireless Smoke and CO Detector

See It

What We Like

• Crystal-clear voice alerts
• Reports to a phone app
• Better looking than other detectors
• Dual-sensor smoke alarm

What We Don’t Like

• Tricky to connect the device to the app
• Must keep app updated

Specs

• Type Split-sensor, which acts as both photoelectric and ionization
• Interconnect Yes
• CO detection Yes

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 5/5; Functionality 3.3/5; Value 5/5

Interconnected smoke detectors communicate with each other through a wireless signal; once one goes off, they all go off. Connecting them can sometimes be confusing, so we appreciated this three-pack from X-Sense that came interconnected—no app or Wi-Fi needed. Activation was as simple as installing the mount on the wall and attaching the smoke detectors by turning them clockwise.

These X-Sense detectors alert to smoke and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. The digital display shows the CO levels in ppm and along with the battery level. Fortunately, these smoke detectors each come with a sealed lithium-ion battery that lasts up to ten years and the unit will notify when the battery life has ended, so you won’t have to worry about replacing batteries.

Through testing, we discovered one downside to these smoke alarms: They didn’t alert when we tested them with canned synthetic smoke. Instead, we had to set them off by blowing out a candle, which we held about three feet away. We had installed one of these smoke detectors in our basement, one on our first floor, and another on our second floor. When we set off the alarm on the first floor, all three smoke detectors loudly alerted us. Silencing them was as easy as pressing a button on the alerted detector.

Get the X-Sense interconnected smoke detectors at Amazon.

Best Voice Alarm

First Alert SMCO210V Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm

See It

What We Like

• Comes with a 10-year sealed battery
• Features a loud alarm and voice alerts
• Attractive, slim design

What We Don’t Like

• Test/silence button is very stiff

Specs

• Type Electrochemical and photoelectric
• Interconnect No
• CO detection Yes

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 5/5; Functionality 4.3/5; Value 4/5

In addition to a loud beeping alarm, First Alert’s SMCO210V smoke and carbon monoxide detector is equipped with voice alerts that relay the location and type of alarm (smoke or CO). This smoke detector has a simple interface with one test/silence button, and programming its location took us less than two minutes. We also appreciated the sealed battery, which lasts up to ten years before the unit needs replacement.

This First Alert smoke detector was one of the loudest we tested. We put it in an upstairs hallway and could hear the beeping alarm from our basement, two floors below. When sprayed with our test can of synthetic smoke, the alarm alerted in less than 15 seconds. 

There was only one thing we didn’t like: The test/silence button was very hard to push. It took us a few tries to silence the alarm after we set it off, simply due to the stiffness of the button.

What our tester says: “This smoke and carbon monoxide detector was one of my favorites. The alarm was loud and the voice alerts were clear, letting me know the location and type of threat.”—Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the First Alert SMCO210V smoke detector at Amazon, Target, Walmart, or First Alert.

Honorable Mention

SimpliSafe Wireless Smoke Detector

See It

What We Like

• Easy-to-use interface
• Quick to silence
• Compatible with SimpliSafe app and monitoring plan

What We Don’t Like

• Smoke alarm could be louder

Specs

• Type Photoelectric
• Interconnect Yes, via SimpliSafe base station
• CO detection No

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 5/5; Functionality 4/5; Value 4/5

The SimpliSafe wireless smoke detector can be used in two ways. First, it can be used as a standalone smoke detector without owning other SimpliSafe products. It’s easy to set up, and during testing, the alarm sounded when synthetic smoke was sprayed nearby without having it connected to any other SimpliSafe products. Second, SimpliSafe users can connect it to their app and base station.

When connected to a SimpliSafe system, this smoke detector sends real-time alerts through the app and triggers the base station alarm. With optional SimpliSafe monitoring, fire rescue can be dispatched even if the user is away from the home.

Unfortunately, this model doesn’t monitor CO levels like many similarly priced smoke detectors. We also thought its alarm was a little on the quiet side. Still, it’s a good fit for those who already utilize SimpliSafe security products.

Get the SimpliSafe smoke detector at Amazon or Best Buy.

Also Consider

First Alert Z-Wave Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm

See It

What We Like

• Easy to install
• Loud enough to hear throughout the home
• Fastest activation of our test group

What We Don’t Like

• Requires Ring hub for full features and connectivity

Specs

• Type Combination photoelectric smoke and electrochemical CO
• Interconnect Yes, via Ring hub
• CO detection Yes

Our Ratings: Installation and Setup 4/5; Functionality 3.7/5; Value 4.3/5

For those who want to set up their own interconnected system that they can access from a phone and other devices, First Alert’s Z-Wave smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm is worth considering. This combination smoke detector interfaces with the Ring Alarm hub and app, offering users real-time alerts wherever they have internet service. This unit features a photoelectric smoke sensor and an electrochemical carbon monoxide detector to alert under a variety of conditions.

Like most First Alert devices, the Z-Wave alarm was very easy to install. The audible alarm was very loud and activated faster than it took to reach for our stopwatch. The only issues we experienced when testing were its refusal to silence (a common problem with First Alert), and, obviously, if you don’t have a hub, this will only work as a basic combination detector.

Get the First Alert Z-Wave smoke detector at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Bed Bath & Beyond.

ALSO TESTED

A smoke detector should be easy to use, loud enough to alert household residents, and quick to alert in the case of smoke or detected carbon monoxide. Unfortunately, not all of the smoke detectors we tested met these thresholds. 

• The Ring Alarm Smoke & CO Listener is a nice idea in theory, but we didn’t find it practical for the average homeowner. 
• The Kidde P4010LDCS-W Smoke Alarm was impossible to set up. It’s designed to link to the Kidde app via Bluetooth but would not register on any of the devices that we tried.
• First Alert’s Hardwired LED Strobe Light Smoke Alarm was a big disappointment, especially for the cost. Despite numerous attempts, we couldn’t get the strobe to light.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Smoke Detectors

While pressing the “test” button is a perfectly fine way for folks to perform once-a-month testing on a smoke detector, a simple button test cannot tell the whole story of how well a unit will perform. A lot more went into our testing, including nearly a decade of experience working with commercial fire alarms.

After researching more than 20 top-rated smoke detector models, we chose 15 to test, not all of which made our final list. We installed each of these units individually, according to the directions, to determine how easy they were to set up. We also tested each device by spraying two puffs of canned synthetic smoke—the same type used when testing fire alarms professionally. We timed each to get a solid sense of how long activation took, and then we compared the results. 

We used a standardized rubric to keep track of our testing results, rating each smoke detector on a scale of 1-5 based on installation, setup, functionality, and value metrics. At the end of testing, we tallied these results to find the winners.

What to Consider When Choosing a Smoke Detector

Even if tested annually, a smoke detector has an operational lifespan of only 10 years. Any model older than that should be replaced, regardless of its working condition. To help make an informed decision, learn about the following key features that pop up when considering the wide range of models currently on the market. 

Types of Smoke Detectors

There are three main smoke sensor types: photoelectric, ionization, and dual sensor. While they all do the same job, they go about it differently. 

Photoelectric

The chamber of a photoelectric smoke detector contains an LED light, which shoots a beam across the chamber, and a sensor that sits approximately 90 degrees from the LED. Under normal conditions, the sensor can’t “see” the LED beam, but when smoke enters the chamber, the light reflects off smoke particulates, and the sensor detects the beam. 

The instant the sensor detects the beam, the alarm activates. Photoelectric smoke detectors are most effective at detecting smoldering burns—barely burning fires that can, frighteningly, smolder for days before becoming a bigger issue. 

Ionization 

Though these detectors employ radioactive materials, alpha rays, and other seemingly sci-fi–inspired technology, they operate in a fairly simple way. A chamber fills with tiny particles called ions, which are held in place by electrical charges. A sensor in the chamber knows how many ions are contained within. When smoke enters the chamber, it removes some of the ions, affecting the sensor’s count and sounding the alarm. 

Ionization smoke detectors are most effective against fires that are actively flaming. 

Dual Sensor 

Just as the category name suggests, these detectors use both types of sensors. There’s no winner in a race against photoelectric and ionization detectors, and they each have their own strengths. The use of both sensor types means faster detection of threats across the range of different materials that could be burning. 

Hardwired vs. Battery Operated

Battery-operated models, which tend to cost less, are usually stand-alone detectors. This means an activated smoke detector cannot alarm a monitoring system or other sensors in the home; only the detector in the smoky area will sound an alarm. The exception would be battery-operated models that are part of a home security system. 

Hardwired smoke detectors connect directly to the home’s electrical system. When one detector sounds an alarm, typically, all of the detectors follow suit. While this may make it harder to pinpoint the unit that actually detected the potential fire, it alerts everyone in the house to danger.

Most residential hardwired home safety systems use battery backups, so even if the power goes out, the home will still have some fire safety protection—and that’s the best of both worlds. In commercial applications, things work a bit differently in that the fire alarm panel will rely on the batteries to keep the alarm system live until the generators kick on or the power comes back.

Interconnectivity

Briefly touched upon above, interconnectivity refers to smoke detectors’ ability to “talk” to each other, alerting the entire system to potential danger. For example, if there were an electrical fire within the car in an attached garage sensed by an interconnected detector, the entire system throughout the house would activate immediately. 

Fires can double in size every 60 seconds, so if residents were to be sleeping on the other side of the house, they might not hear a stand-alone detector activate in the garage. Interconnected detectors would make them aware of the threat—hopefully before it’s too late to react.

Carbon Monoxide

In a similar circumstance, a car left running in the garage can produce fatal levels of carbon monoxide (CO), which could prove particularly dangerous to folks sleeping in a bedroom above. Smoke detectors with carbon monoxide sensors add another level of safety. While all homes should have carbon monoxide alarms, homes with gas or oil heat and hot water are particularly vulnerable to carbon monoxide buildup. If you don’t have a plug-in CO detector, a dual smoke detector with a built-in carbon monoxide detector is a wise purchase.

Monitoring

Interconnected detectors are often part of a monitored home security system. The great benefit of these systems is they can alert the local fire department, even if no one is at home to make the emergency call. A carbon monoxide issue could render those inside unable to call the fire department, so the monitoring company can make that call, possibly saving lives.

UL Listing

Quality smoke detectors are UL listed. This certification ensures that the detectors meet Underwriters Laboratories’ (UL) stringent testing requirements. Given the importance of purchasing the best smoke detector system that a household can afford, it’s not worth the risk to install anything that isn’t UL listed.

Smart Features

For those interested in the latest fire safety technology, some good smoke alarms do boast smart features. Many of these smart smoke detectors not only communicate with an overseeing alarm system but also with users’ phones through Wi-Fi. Some models even allow users to employ any TV remote to mute an activated detector. 

FAQs

Now that you know a bit more about the best smoke detectors, some questions may still pop up. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, so check below for the information that will clarify your queries.

Meet the Testers

Katie Barton is a home improvement writer with over ten years of experience. She extensively tests products to help readers find the best value and features for their money. 

Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry. He spent years in the fire safety industry, both installing and testing commercial fire alarm and suppression systems.

The post Keep Your Home and Family Safe With One of Our Favorite Smoke Detectors appeared first on Bob Vila.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

We carefully evaluated popular garage door insulation kits and tested those that made our shortlist for features like ease of insulation and how significantly they affected the temperature on the inside of the garage door. Our top recommendation is the Reach Barrier 3009 Garage Door Insulation Kit thanks to its very simple installation and impressive noise-dampening capabilities. Keep reading to discover what we learned while performing hands-on testing on our lineup of the best garage door insulation kits.

1. BEST OVERALL: Reach Barrier 3009 Garage Door Insulation Kit
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: US Energy Products Double Bubble Reflective Foil 
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. UPGRADE PICK: US Energy Products Nasatek 2-Car Foam Insulation Kit
   ↓ Jump to Review
4. BEST REFLECTIVE: US Energy Products Nasatek 1-Car Reflective Insulation Kit
   ↓ Jump to Review
5. BEST EASY INSTALL: Matador Garage Door Insulation
   ↓ Jump to Review

Product Comparison

	Type	Size	Installation Kit
Reach Barrier 3009 Garage Door Insulation Kit	Radiant barrier	Eight panels, each 4 feet long by 2 feet wide
US Energy Products Double Bubble Reflective Foil	Radiant barrier	10 feet long by 4 feet wide
US Energy Products Nasatek 2-Car Foam Insulation Kit	Radiant barrier	Four rolls, each 18 feet long by 2 feet wide (ours came in 9-foot-long rolls)
US Energy Products Nasatek 1-Car Reflective Insulation Kit	Foam	Eight panels, each roughly 9 feet long by 2 feet wide
Matador Garage Door Insulation	Rigid foam	Eight panels, each 54 inches long by 20.25 inches wide (ours was closer to 21 inches)	(shouldn’t need one)

Our Top Picks

We chose the top-rated products below for their quality, price, and ease of installation to help find the best garage door insulation kit for any garage door. And, to ensure we’re only suggesting the best garage door insulation kits, we performed hands-on testing with the following products. 

Note: Each of these products effectively retained heat on the garage side of the door. Our test garage was 2-bay, and we left one door uninsulated to serve as a “control door.” An hour after insulation, we took readings with an infrared thermometer, and each showed a difference of 8 to 10 degrees warmer on the insulated side.

Best Overall

Reach Barrier 3009 Garage Door Insulation Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Installation 5/5; Performance 5/5; Sound Mitigation 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant barrier
• Size: Eight panels, each 4 feet long by 2 feet wide
• Installation kit: Yes

What We Like

• Immediately reduced on noise
• Simple installation
• Made the garage noticeably comfier

What We Don’t Like

• 4-foot strips were not long enough

The Reach Barrier 3009 is ideal for helping to keep a garage warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It uses reflective aluminum on the front and back, with a laminated bubble layer sandwiched between the layers to create an effective boundary between the garage and the fluctuating temperature outdoors. The kit comes with eight precut panels that measure 4 feet long by 2 feet wide—a size suitable for most standard single-car garage doors.

We noticed an immediate decline in the sound transfer through the door, and the temperature measurements on the insulated side were higher than on the uninsulated side. Our only complaint was that the 4-foot strips were not long enough for our 9-foot test door, which would mean we’d either have to live with bare spots or patch them with scrap cutoffs. 

What our tester says: Some garage door insulation kits can be a hassle to install, but this one makes installation easy. “All that’s required is to clean the door, attach the adhesive squares, and stick the panels in place. During testing, I found that the Reach Barrier was as easy to install as claimed: I simply placed a few of the adhesive squares along the perimeter of each section and pressed the insulation into place.” —Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Reach Barrier garage door insulation kit at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

US Energy Products Double Bubble Reflective Foil

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Our Ratings: Ease of Installation 3/5; Performance 4/5; Sound Mitigation 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant barrier
• Size: 10 feet long by 4 feet wide
• Installation kit: No

What We Like

• Thicker than other radiant barriers
• Blocks sound well
• Minimal weight offers plenty of installation options

What We Don’t Like

• Not specifically designed for garages
• Doesn’t come with installation kit

Reduce your heating bill and save money with this affordable Double Bubble Reflective Foil insulation. It has an R-value of 4, and according to the manufacturer, it reflects 97 percent of radiant heat. The insulation comes in a 10-foot-long by 4-foot-wide roll that cuts easily to the proper size with a utility knife or scissors. 

This insulation kit for garage doors features two layers of polyethylene air bubbles to help reduce the transmission of heat through the air layer. This is sandwiched between a reflective film of aluminum polyester designed to reflect radiant heat away from the garage door and back into the open garage space. The insulation is lightweight yet durable enough to be installed with tacks, staples, or nails if necessary.

Testing the product was rather tricky. First, this isn’t a garage-door–specific kit, so we needed to cut the sheet into strips. Even then, we didn’t have enough to cover an entire door. We needed to use our own double-sided tape to hang it as well; because it’s so lightweight, though, that really wasn’t an issue. However, we did find that this reflective foil insulation did a good job of keeping out unwanted noise, and it measured warmer than the uninsulated door (at least in the areas where we were able to install it). The doubled layers were thicker than the other radiant barriers as well.

Get the US Energy Products double bubble garage door insulation at Amazon.

Upgrade Pick

US Energy Products Nasatek 2-Car Foam Insulation Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Installation 5/5; Performance 4/5; Sound Mitigation 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant barrier
• Size: Four rolls, each 18 feet long by 2 feet wide (ours came in 9-foot-long rolls)
• Installation kit: Yes

What We Like

• Best installation kit and instructions in the test
• Nice workable lengths 
• Blocked sound and temperature transfer

What We Don’t Like

• Strips weren’t cut squarely from the factory

For garages with two doors, a standard garage door insulation kit won’t provide the necessary amount of insulation. This Nasatek 2-car garage door insulation kit comes with four rolls of 18-foot-long by 2-foot-wide foam core insulation. This kit also includes a utility knife to cut the insulation to the right size, a squeegee to help prepare the garage door for installation, and heavy-duty double-sided tape used to attach the insulation.

The premium-priced reflective white foam core has an R-value of 8, which can reduce the temperature inside the garage by 30 degrees in hot summer weather. Installing the insulation is simple using the double-sided tape, though the kit also comes with an instruction booklet.

Like the other barriers, it did a good job of blocking sound, and the insulated door measured warmer than the uninsulated door. If we had a complaint, it would be that the ends of the strips weren’t cut squarely, which made the installation look a little sloppy.

What our tester says: “In regard to installation gear and instructions, this kit was by far the most complete and best quality. It came with plenty of tape, a few razor knives, and squeegees for ensuring the tape and the insulation were attached correctly. Also, the rolls came in 9-foot lengths as opposed to the 18-foot lengths described, so they were very easy to work with.” —Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the US Energy Products 2-car garage door insulation kit at Amazon.

Best Reflective

US Energy Products Nasatek 1-Car Reflective Insulation Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Installation 5/5; Performance 4/5; Sound Mitigation 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Foam
• Size: Eight panels, each roughly 9 feet long by 2 feet wide
• Installation kit: Yes

What We Like

• Effectively retains warmth while keeping noise out
• Installation kit includes high-quality tape
• Choice of surfaces when installing

What We Don’t Like

• The white surface was a bit too much

Garage owners who’d prefer to use lightweight, reflective insulation for garage doors should check out this kit from US Energy products. This radiant barrier kit features a layer of foam sandwiched between a white layer and a reflective layer, offering a clean look with the benefit of a radiant surface. 

The kit comes as a set of eight precut panels for 9-foot doors. It also comes with the double-sided tape required for hanging it (which is quite easy). 

During the test, this kit also proved to be effective at keeping noise, as well as the cold air, at bay while working in the garage. The kit was very easy to install, and the double-sided tape was effective enough to hold this lightweight foam up through multiple up-and-down cycles with the garage door. We liked that there were two options for the surface (the directions even state that there is no “right side”) since we weren’t really into the white.

Get the US Energy Products 1-car garage door insulation kit at Amazon.

Best Easy Install

Matador Garage Door Insulation

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Our Ratings: Ease of Installation 5/5; Performance 4/5; Sound Mitigation 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Rigid foam
• Size: Eight panels, each 54 inches long by 20.25 inches wide (ours was closer to 21 inches)
• Installation kit: No (shouldn’t require one)

What We Like

• Minimal weight gave us hanging options
• Effective sound and temperature transfer control
• Thick, dense foam, but it’s easy to cut

What We Don’t Like

• Only really works for garage doors with rails

Anyone who wants to insulate a garage door but is uncomfortable using adhesives or fasteners should check out this easy -to-install garage door insulation kit from Matador. The kit comes with eight polystyrene laminate panels that can be cut to the perfect size for any garage door panels. Each piece of polystyrene laminate measures 54 inches long by 20.25 inches wide by 1.25 inches thick and has an R-value of 4.8. 

With this insulation kit, tape, glue, pins, or any other adhesives or fasteners aren’t necessary. After cutting everything to size, carefully slot them in between the horizontal and vertical rails on the garage door. The insulation also has a bright white and easily washable surface to keep the garage looking great.

In full disclosure, these panels didn’t work with our garage door since we didn’t have the rails to slide them between. However, since they’re lightweight, we were able to tape them in place with the extra adhesive and tape from the other kits. Once we did, we were very impressed with the noise reduction and temperature difference between doors. The foam is thick and dense, but it’s easy enough to cut for custom-fitted panels (though doing so does make a mess). 

Get the Matador garage door insulation at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Garage Door Insulation Kits

While installing garage door insulation is generally simple, testing these products is difficult. First, we needed to understand that garage door insulation will not keep a space toasty warm; it’s not that type of insulation. As our test garage contained two bays, though, we left one door uninsulated while we installed the kits on the other. This gave us a reasonable “control” subject to test the doors against.

First, we installed each kit according to the instructions (some didn’t come with any). We used double-sided tape and adhesive squares to hold each strip in place. Then, we trimmed all the sheets to size with a razor knife. We then opened and closed the door several times to ensure the product had adhered properly. 

Finally, we took note of the apparent noise transfer and temperature transfer through the garage door. It’s difficult to say which product was more effective since the temperatures and sun’s position change throughout the day. However, each product appeared to be effective at reducing heat loss. We checked the insulated door against the uninsulated door and recorded the temperature readings.

What to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door Insulation Kit

Finding the best garage door insulation kit for a home isn’t difficult once you decide which type of insulation you’d prefer. Even so, there are still a few things to consider. Here are some important points to keep in mind while shopping for a garage door insulation kit. 

Types of Garage Door Insulation Kits

Garage door insulation kits can come in many types, including radiant barrier, fiberglass, foam, and cellulose. And, because the garage is one of the places that could most benefit from better insulation, it’s worth getting familiar with the various types.

Radiant Barrier

Radiant barriers are usually inexpensive and are made of highly reflective materials such as aluminum. This type of garage door insulation kit is used to block the radiant heat energy instead of absorbing it like fiberglass insulation. It typically features one or two layers of reflective material to create a heat barrier in addition to an “air space” layer that can be made of bubble wrap. This air space layer creates a pocket that reduces both conductive and convective heat flow (spreading and containing heat) to help keep the garage warm.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is commonly used to insulate homes, so it only makes sense that it can have the same effect on a garage door. This thick, fibrous material has a high R-value, meaning it’s a great material to insulate a garage, attic, ceilings, walls, and floors. (R-value is determined by the thickness and the density of a material. The higher the R-value, the better the material will insulate.) The only downside of fiberglass is that it’s messy to work with. 

Foam

Foam garage door insulation can be split into two categories: spray foam and rigid foam, which is also known as foam core.

• Spray foam is exactly what it sounds like: a foamy substance that sprays onto a garage door. It’s cheap and easy, but it’s not the best option for garage doors. 
• Rigid foam, or foam core, is made from Styrofoam. It’s lightweight, user-friendly, and affordable. There are three types of rigid foam used for garage door insulation, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and polyisocyanurate (polyiso). 

Cellulose

Cellulose is a low-thermal product that’s made entirely from organic material like plant fibers, cotton, or wood. This type of insulation can also use recycled materials such as old newspapers, cardboard, office paper, and other paper products. Cellulose also contains a fire-resistant borate treatment to help protect the home from fire.

Cellulose must be sprayed onto the garage door panels in the same way as spray foam insulation, and it provides a highly effective method of retaining the garage heat. Unfortunately, cellulose is also the most expensive garage door insulation kit type, so it may not be an option for DIYers on a budget.

Compatibility

When selecting a garage door insulation kit, ensure that it’s compatible with the garage door. For instance, some insulation kits require metal channels along the garage door support frame to securely install the insulation. 

Before purchasing a garage door insulation kit, look into its installation instructions and requirements to avoid accidentally buying a kit that’s for a different size or type of garage door. 

Size

The size of the garage door itself, along with the size of each individual panel, is also an important consideration. While many insulation kits come with panels that can be customized to fit any garage door, it’s better to find a product that comes close to the size required to save money and reduce waste. 

For those who go with spray foam or cellulose, measure the space beforehand to ensure there’s enough spray insulation to properly insulate the entire door. Some insulation kits are designed to move with the door, while others only insulate the individual panels, allowing movement at the garage door seams.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of a garage door insulation kit can be estimated using two measurements: U-factor and R-value.

• U-factor and U-value are interchangeable terms used to describe the measurement of the thermal efficiency of a garage door and the rate of heat transfer, with ratings ranging from 0 to 1. These measurements are given in decimal form only and operate on a reverse scale from R-value. What this means is that the lower the U-factor, the more efficient the insulation. For example, a U-factor of 0.05 is more efficient than a U-factor of 0.10.
• R-value measures the rate of heat loss and thermal efficiency of the garage door insulation material, but it doesn’t measure the thermal efficiency of the door itself. This rating is frequently used by manufacturers and is measured on a scale that begins at 0 and typically ranges up to 16.

Weight

When thinking about adding insulation to a door, remember that doing so will also add weight. If the weight of the insulation is too great, then it can affect the operation of both automatic and manual garage doors. The best way to avoid this issue is to use lightweight insulation that will not overburden or hinder the garage door.

Fiberglass and rigid foam are easy to install and don’t often cause weight issues, though radiant barriers are much lighter. Spray foam and cellulose can quickly become heavy if the layers of insulation are too thick. Always use these insulation sprays carefully to avoid over-spraying the garage door.

Adhesive

Garage door insulation kits can be attached to a door in a variety of ways; some use clips and tape, while others just require tucking the insulation into the framework of the panels. Adhesives, however, can make the installation process easier and can be used with any type of garage door.

Adhesives may connect pins to the door, providing a secure base to attach the insulation panels, or they may be used to secure the insulation directly to the door without the need for additional fasteners. This type of installation method is one of the easiest, but adhesives are also difficult to remove. Even so, they’re still not as difficult to remove as spray foam.

Ease of Installation

The installation process is relatively easy regardless of the type of insulation chosen; however, spray insulation should be used only for those who are confident in their ability to moderately spray expanding foam on a vertical surface. Some insulation works well with metal doors because it can be slotted into the frame on the door without needing to be attached, glued, or fastened to anything. 

From this basic install, the difficulty increases to include adhesives that can either fasten directly to the garage door or affix with retaining pins to the garage door. The retaining pins pierce the insulation and secure it with a retaining cap. It’s also possible to use spray foam or spray cellulose, which is very easy to apply but can be difficult to create an even layering across an entire door without blocking the flexible garage door seams.

The Advantages of Insulating a Garage Door

Having a garage attached to a home or as a detached building on a property offers a secure location to store vehicles, tools, sports gear, and yard equipment. But keeping it warm can be difficult. Whether heating the garage via the home’s heating system or pulling out the old electric heater from time to time, there’s no doubt that insulating garage doors can help save money. This simple upgrade helps keep heat in and cold out, reducing the amount of electricity or gas it takes to warm a garage.

Adding insulation to a garage door also increases the weight and support of the garage door panels so that they become more durable. This update to the garage door also makes it quieter, reducing the transmission of sound through the door and the vibration of the door panels. Garage door insulation installation helps protect vehicles, tools, and other items from freezing temperatures and frigid winds so that the car will start in the morning.

• Adding garage door insulation can reduce electric bills (saving money).
• Insulation makes garage doors quieter and more durable to operate.
• With insulated garage doors, vehicles (and pipes) will be better protected against frigid temperatures.

FAQs 

Meet the Tester

Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer specializing in the home design, construction, tools, and automotive industries. He has been involved in the trades for over 15 years as both a contractor and a commercial building mechanic. His work has been featured on This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He also owns and operates a pest control blog RiddaBugs.com. As a lover of all things tools, construction, and DIY, he’s always looking for new tools and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY world. 

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale. 

The post This Simple DIY Upgrade Keeps Your Garage Comfortable and Warm appeared first on Bob Vila.

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.