Some models are blower-only; this option shows the ones that also have a vacuum feature.

We recommend blower vacs with a CHOICE Expert Rating of more than 80%.

This overall score is made up of the performance score (65%) and ease of use score (35%). We recommend blower vacs with a CHOICE Expert Rating over 80%.

We test with dry leaves and small twigs in a 20 square metre area. We time how long it takes to blow all the leaves into a pile, and for models with a vacuum function, how long it then takes to convert from blower to vacuum mode and vacuum up the pile of leaves. The fastest blowers clear the area of leaves in under 4 minutes. If a model runs out of power before cleaning the whole area its score is penalised accordingly.

We check how easy each model is to use. This includes using its controls, and how comfortable it is to hold and operate.

Only applicable to blower vacs. This test involves vacuuming 1kg of mixed leaf and twig material as well as 2kg of leaf material. As not all models have a vacuum, vacuum scores are not included in the CHOICE Expert Rating.

Only applicable to blower vacs. This test assesses general ease of use, including how easy it is to clear any blockages. As not all models have a vacuum, vacuum scores are not included in the CHOICE Expert Rating.

We measure the blower noise in blower mode at the user's ear level and at 7.5m away.

This row shows which products are still available in shops ('Tested model') and which models have been discontinued. You might still be able to find discontinued models in second-hand stores or online.

Recommended or typical retail with charger and battery for most models, as of May 2024 .

Measured in ampere-hours (Ah). Larger capacity typically means a longer running time.

Battery life is the running time in minutes. Stated charge time is the claimed time to charge the battery from flat to full charge (not measured).

na - Not applicable (not electric mains-powered).

na - Not applicable (no bag / vacuum function).

Some blowers have separate warranties for the battery and the blower.

This helps when vacuuming, as it's easier to trundle the inlet around on the ground if it has a nose wheel.