Lightweight and easy to handle, the Black & Decker BV4000 Leaf Hog is low on noise and powered by way of an electrical cord. The multi-purpose lawn tool comes with a vacuum attachment that allows it to suck debris into its detachable leaf bag for convenient disposal. The Leaf Hog is also recommended for clearing patios of dust and grit, according to the CNNMoney website, which gives it a B+ rating and adds that the Leaf Hog is best suited for small to medium-sized lawns.
The handheld Stihl BGA 85, with its lithium-ion battery, is ideal for those who are concerned about the environment. While the BGA 85 reaches a top speed of only 103 mph, that's nevertheless impressive for a battery-powered blower and, according to Wired.com, "plenty for our leaf wrangling." This Stihl model does lose rating points for its noise level, which is comparable to some gas-powered blowers, and because the battery and charger must be purchased separately. But its outstanding maneuverability and preciseness, as well as its lack of gas emissions, earn the BGA 85 an 8 out of 10 from Wired.com and make it the "editor's pick."
Orange, powerful and easy to handle, the Husqvarna 125B E-Tech weighs just under 10 pounds. Boasting an impressively concentrated airstream, the 125B E-Tech can be used with precision to blast away troublesome clumps of leaves and other bits of lawn garbage at speeds of over 200 mph. The blower also comes with a fan-shaped attachment nozzle, which the Popular Mechanics website recommends for its ability to clear pavement. Additionally, the machine's excellent balance makes it comfortable and simple to use.
For heavy duty work, the Stihl BR 500 backpack blower has the power needed to get things done. Able to topple a pile of bricks, the gas-and-oil-powered blower is expensive but suitable for big yards and tough tasks. The backpack design may be uncomfortable for those unable to shoulder the 21.8-pound device, but considering its strength, the Stihl blower is "surprisingly quiet," according to the CNNMoney website, which gives it an A- rating.