Choosing between a corded or cordless leaf blower can be a tricky decision. Both types of leaf blowers have their advantages and disadvantages. The best corded and cordless leaf blowers are generally lightweight, don’t make much noise, are easy to handle, and effectively clear leaves and debris from yards. However, compared to a gas-powered blower, an electric or battery-powered leaf blower is friendlier for the environment and quieter.
If you have decided on buying a leaf blower, which should you buy — a corded or cordless leaf blower?
Several factors can influence your decision when it comes to buying a leaf blower. The two primary considerations are airspeed (miles per hour or MPH) and air volume (cubic feet per minute or CFM). In addition, when it comes to cordless or corded models, you have factors such as length of power cord, runtime, cost, yard size, and type of debris to clear.
This guide to leaf blowers will help you decide on the best type of leaf blower to buy — corded or cordless.
What is a Corded Leaf Blower?
A corded blower is a lightweight tool for blowing piles of leaves. Typically designed for one-handed use, the leaf blower has a no-hassle push-button to start and zero exhaust emissions. However, these leaf blowers are limited in range by the outdoor extension cord’s length and proximity to a power outlet.
All corded leaf blowers tend to be handheld models
What is a Cordless Leaf Blower?
A cordless blower uses a rechargeable battery, making them as maneuverable as gas-powered models. A cordless electric leaf blower is only limited by its battery charge—typically up to 30 minutes. However, a spare battery can extend the operation time. Cordless models tend to be heavier and pricier than corded ones.
Most cordless leaf blowers are handheld models. However, there are a few high-quality cordless backpack models on the market.
Corded Leaf Blower vs. Cordless Leaf Blower
The primary difference between electric blowers that are corded or battery-powered is the power source. Because there is no battery, corded models tend to be lighter with a more powerful motor. However, with a corded electric blower, the cord’s length restricts your movement. Going for a cordless option lets you go free-range. However, the battery capacity will restrict the length of time you can use the tool.
Most corded and cordless leaf blowers have an adjustable handle, adjustable blowers tube, variable speed settings,
The Pros and Cons of Cordless Leaf Blowers
Battery-powered blowers have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, no exhaust fumes like with gas leaf blowers is a significant advantage. However, it’s vital to buy a good quality battery-powered model to ensure a high-capacity rechargeable battery and high CFM rating.
Here are the pros and cons of buying a cordless leaf blower:
Pros
- Freedom to use anywhere without the hassle of a cord
- No risk of shock from a faulty cable
- No harmful CO2 exhaust emissions
- A lower noise level than gas-powered leaf blowers
- Environmentally friendly
- The best cordless models are just as powerful as corded ones
- Big brand leaf blowers use interchangeable batteries that can be used with other power tools or battery-operated garden tools
Cons
- Limited runtime, sometimes as short as 10 minutes on full power
- Heavier than corded leaf blowers
- Cheap cordless leaf blowers have less power and don’t clear wet leaves effectively
- Batteries can be expensive to replace if they fail
The Pros and Cons of Corded Leaf Blowers
Corded electric leaf blowers also have their advantages and disadvantages. For many homeowners, the lower price and powerful motor are significant benefits. However, the extension cord can be a nuisance when clearing leaves. Apart from the restrictive length, cords can get tangled in shrubs and damage them or get wrapped around trees.
Here are the pros and cons of using a corded leaf blower to clear leaves, snow, grass clippings, and other debris from your yard:
Pros
- Unlimited runtime
- The lightest type of leaf blower without compromising on performance
- Cheaper than battery-powered or gas leaf blowers
- Like cordless models, there are no CO2 emissions to worry about
Cons
- Limited by the length of extension cord, usually up to 100 feet
- It’s easy to trip over the cord
- Increased risk of shock in wet or snowy conditions
- Not useful if you have a large yard with many trees and shrubs
Comparing Cordless Leaf Blowers and Corded Leaf Blowers
To help you choose, here is a side-by-side comparison of leaf blowers
| Feature | Corded Leaf Blower | Cordless Leaf Blower |
| Runtime | Unlimited | Restricted to battery charge |
| Cost | Cheap | More expensive than corded blowers |
| Weight | Lightweight | Slightly heavier than corded models |
| Airspeed (depends on model) | 60 – 270 MPH | 60 – 270 MPH |
| Air flow rating (depends on model) | 225 – 470 CFM | 350 – 580 CFM |
| Emissions | None | None |
| Ease of use | Limited by cord | Go anywhere |
| Backpack leaf blower models | No | Yes |
| Variable speed settings | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise control feature | Yes | Yes |
Corded or Cordless Leaf Blowers — FAQs
To assist in deciding on whether to buy a corded leaf blower or a cordless model, here are some questions that people frequently ask before
Which is better cordless or corded leaf blower?
The choice of corded or cordless leaf blower usually comes down to three things—range of operation, runtime, and price.
Suppose you have a small to medium-sized yard and a nearby electrical outlet. In that case, a corded leaf blower is the cheapest option. With a suitable power cord, you will be able to clear your yard from leaves, light snow, and other yard debris.
However, if you want the versatility of a cordless leaf blower and are prepared to pay a bit more, then a cordless model is the best choice.
Should I buy an electric leaf blower?
An electric-powered leaf blower—corded or cordless—is typically the best leaf-clearing outdoor tool for homeowners. Electric leaf blowers are cheaper and significantly lighter than gas blowers. Because there is no combustion engine, they are also less noisy—a crucial consideration in neighborhoods with noise restrictions. Additionally, corded and cordless blowers are more environmentally friendly.
How long do cordless blowers run for?
The typical runtime of a battery-powered leaf blower is a maximum of 30 minutes. However, when running the garden tool on full power or turbo mode, you can expect a runtime of between 10 and 15 minutes. To extend the length of time a cordless model operates, you can purchase a spare battery. In addition, you will find that leaf blower batteries of top brands such as Matika, Ryobi, Black+Decker, Husqvarna, and Greenworks can be used with other electric power tools in their range.