The 10 Best Leaf Mulchers
This review has been updated 26 times since it was first published in April of 2021. Cleaning up the yard isn’t the most exciting task, but one of these handy leaf mulchers can make the chore much easier. We’ve included light-duty shredders, units that double as blowers and vacuums, and some powerful models capable of handling branches up to 3.5 inches thick, so there should be a cordless or gas-powered option for you, no matter the size of your property or your budget.
10. Flowtron LE-900
You can fit the Flowtron LE-900 (about $164) with a bag or mount it directly over a trash can for efficient disposal. It can be tilted to nearly any angle for an ergonomic working position, and its low cost makes it affordable for nearly any homeowner.
- Two-step breakdown process
- Adjustable shredding size
- Gets hung up on twigs
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9. Patriot Products CSV-2515
Those who want to avoid dealing with a messy and hard-to-start gasoline engine, but still need commercial-quality power, should consider the Patriot Products CSV-2515 (about $1130). It makes short work of branches up to 2.5″ in diameter and is equipped with a large hopper.
- Backed by a two-year warranty
- Includes safety goggles
- Overkill for most home users
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8. Toro Ultra
The Toro Ultra (appx. $69) can produce an impressive 250 mph wind in blower mode, which is faster than a category 5 hurricane. Its rugged metal impeller should last through years of use, and it includes a helpful integrated cord lock, too.
- Easy to clear when it clogs
- Quieter than gas models
- Bag strap is stitched on poorly
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7. Black & Decker BV6000
The Black & Decker BV6000 (appx. $63) has a powerful, clog-resistant impeller for efficiently grinding 10 bags worth of leaves down to one. It can be converted from a blower to a vacuum in just a few seconds by hand without using any tools.
- Well-balanced and comfortable to use
- High-quality collection bag
- Inconvenient on-off switch placement
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6. Worx WG430
If you have mountains of leaves to deal with, the Worx WG430 (appx. $110) can help. Its robust motor can handle 53 gallons per minute, but the string used for cutting gets broken easily on twigs and branches, so you have to be careful not to load any into the hopper.
- Easy to assemble without tools
- Comes with 24 replacement lines
- Cannot adjust output size
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5. Sun Joe SBJ603E
The multifunctional Sun Joe SBJ603E (appx. $61) is a 3-in-1 tool that makes lots of chores easier. It offers six wind speeds, can be quickly disassembled for compact storage, and has a clean-running, quick-starting, 13-amp electric motor.
- Collection bag is easy to empty
- Includes interchangeable tubes
- Budget-friendly price
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4. Husqvarna 125BVX
The Husqvarna 125BVX (about $122) lets you cut the cord while doing yard work, thanks to its 1.1-horsepower, 2-cycle engine. This highly reliable model generates wind speeds of up to 170 mph, enabling the dispersal of lawn debris in record-breaking time.
- Weighs less than 10 lbs
- Round and flat nozzles
- Starts easily even when cold
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3. Teccpo 12-Amp
The remarkably low cost of the Teccpo 12-Amp (appx. $60) is impressive, especially in light of its maximum air intake of 410 cubic feet per minute, as well as its durable metal blade. It also has a convenient cord management system that prevents accidental unplugging during use.
- 16-to-1 mulching ratio
- Two-speed motor
- Backed by a two-year warranty
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2. Worx WG518
The lightweight Worx WG518 (around $66) boasts one of the best airflows of any vacuum-style model. It’s not intended for large-scale landscaping jobs, but most homeowners will find it perfect for ridding their yards of autumn’s leftovers.
- Offers two speeds
- Maximum suction power of 400 cfm
- Metal-bladed impeller
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1. Tazz K32
The knives and hammers inside the Tazz K32 (around $524) pulverize yard waste easily, thanks to a 212cc gasoline engine. Over 8 foot-pounds of torque make this beast a powerful way of processing both leaves and small to medium-sized branches. All the parts come with a 5-year warranty.
- Low height makes for easy loading
- Extra-large hopper
- Produces impressive suction
