Generally, a leaf vacuum does not come as a separate device but rather is integrated into a more versatile unit with a blower or mulcher/shredder. A vac can be electro, battery-powered & gas. These devices differ in power, debris bag capacity, and the availability of a built-in mulcher/shredder.

Having a mulching feature in your leaf vacuum is pretty convenient, with a mulch ratio ranging from 6:1 to 16:1. The electric WORX WG512 Trivac features the highest mulch ratio of 16:1.

If you need a high-performance battery-powered leaf vacuum with a mulcher, we recommend the BLACK+DECKER LSWV36 that mulches leaves up to one-sixth of their original size.

Commercial gas-powered leaf vacs have powerful impellers and higher suction power. These devices have the capacity to suck a great amount of debris efficiently and cope with heavier and challenging branches. But their prices are very high, reaching around $1500.

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the high-class leaf vacuums and their cutting-edge alternatives offered by different manufacturers on the global market. They differ in capacity, power source, functionality and purposes.

Best Leaf Vacuums 2020 | Electric, Cordless, Gas-Powered and Commercial | Comparative Chart

1. WORX WG512 Trivac 2.0 3-in-1 Vacuum Blower/Mulcher/Vac

This powerful electric 600 CFM unit combines a leaf blower, a mulcher, and a vacuum in one device. It features a high-capacity leaf collection system and a 26-gal bag. It mulches leaves in 2 stages, down to a 16:1 ratio.

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2. BLACK+DECKER LSWV36 Lithium Blower/Vacuum

Equipped with a 40V Li-ion battery, the device features 120 mph speed, quiet (65 dBA) operation, and a 6:1 mulch ratio. It is made with a built-in scraper, convenient on/off switch, and a comfortable grip handle.

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3. Sun Joe SBJ803E Walk Behind Corded-Electric Vacuum

Equipped with a 14-Amp motor this 3-in-1 walk behind vac with a quick conversion system can generate up to 600 CFM at 165 MPH. Its high-grade nylon impeller provides a 10:1 reduction ratio. It comes in a wheeled but compact design with the ability to adjust a working height for each user.

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4. Greenworks 24322 40V Li-Ion Leaf Blower/Vacuum

The brushless technology of this battery-powered model allows reaching up to 340 CFM at 185 MPH with up to 80% longer life, low noise, and vibration. Variable 6-speed control and turbo mode. The battery is compatible with the entire G-MAX 40V lineup. It features a low noise rating of 60.2 dB.

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5. Agri-Fab 45-0218 26-Inch Push Lawn Sweeper 

This walk-behind unit features a collapsible collecting bag designed to hold up to 7 cu.ft of debris and wide plastic wheels. Its brush-to-wheel ratio amounts to 5:1 allowing an exceptional performance. Its housing and frame are made of high-quality materials. 

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6. Agri-Fab 45-0320 42-Inch Tow Lawn Sweeper

This towed-type model is equipped with 4 brushes to sweep all debris into a high-capacity hopper bag which can accumulate up to 12 cu. ft., and allows easy dumping right from your vehicle. This tool features 42” semi-pneumatic tires allowing excellent maneuverability.  

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7. Agri-Fab 55188 Lawn Vacuum

This commercial-grade vac delivers 80 MPH suction and features a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine. It is compatible with more than 40 tractor decks up to 54 in. wide. It comes with an extra-large 32 cu. ft. container, and a hose designed to detect any clogging immediately.  

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8. Billy Goat KV600 Lawn and Litter Commercial Vacuum

It is a heavy-duty commercial leaf vacuum featuring 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine to generate up to 1,700 CFM for strongest suction. Its large 5-blade serrated impeller enhances power output and debris reduction. It comes with a rugged zipperless bag with fasteners and an integral dust skirt.  

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Crucial Features of a Leaf Vacuum: Suction Power, Capacity, Mulching and Impeller Potency | Buyer’s Guide

  • Suction power. This parameter directly depends on motor power which actually determines the overall performance of a leaf vacuum. In other words, the more powerful a motor is, the higher the efficiency of a unit will be. Practically, that means the volume of debris the device is capable to handle. Thus, residential-grade devices with a 1-2 kW motor (1,3-2,7 HP for gas-power models) feature comparatively low capacity to clean small areas or deal with light-duty tasks.

Units of 2-3 kW (2,7-4 HP) are suitable for cleaning larger territories, in some cases, even used for lighter commercial purposes. Such models should be capable of clearing heavier debris and even wet leaves which might stick to the impeller and consequently damage your vacuum. For instance, WORX WG512 Trivac 2.0 3-in-1 Vacuum Blower/Mulcher/Vac with its 2,8 kW motor is capable of clearing large areas easily.  

Powerful gas machines featuring more than 5,4 HP are classified as professional-grade equipment and commonly used by cleaning companies and public utilities. However, you should realize that motor power is directly connected with the weight of a unit. Thus, the greater the power is, the heavier the motor/engine and the entire vacuum will be. The Remington RM2BV 27cc Gas Leaf Blower with Vacuum is a bright example of a gas-powered leaf vacuum designed to process the most challenging debris and wastes without mishaps.  

  • Capacity. This spec shows the possibility of your leaf vacuum which mainly refers to CFM (cubic feet per minute) or airflow it can generate to suck an adequate amount of debris efficiently. In particular, taking into consideration the rated capacity of a unit, you can determine the scope of work it is designed to perform. 

Generally, the higher capacity is, the less time you will spend on cleaning your garden or yard. For instance, models like cordless Greenworks delivering 400 CFM will be more than enough to cope easily with light garden debris in areas up to 2000 sq. ft. Large areas, like parks or squares, will require not less than 600 CFM flow.    

Air speed in MPH (miles per hour) is a less critical parameter for a leaf vacuum as it primarily impacts the blowing capacity of a unit. Thus, if you are planning to purchase a versatile model with a blowing mode, you should also figure out the speed ratings. In particular, 100 MPH will be more than enough to sweep plenty of dead leaves, grass, stems, and similar debris away without any hassle. The Sun Joe SBJ803E Walk Behind Corded-Electric Vacuum generates up to 600 CFM at 165 MPH to deal with a cleaning routine in the most effective manner.

For comparison, сommercial-grade vacs like Billy Goat KV600 Lawn and Litter Vacuum with the Briggs & Stratton gas engine can generate up to 1,700 CFM but their prices are about $1500.

  • Mulch ratio. The mulching function became possible due to integrated blades in front of an impeller. It allows shredding incoming grass and leaves, thus reducing considerably the volume of debris accumulated in a collecting bag. This fact, in its turn, increases runtime as there’s no necessity to switch off a leaf vacuum mulcher for cleaning of the bag too often. Besides, achieved mulch is a perfect and free-of-charge natural fertilizer for the plants in your garden. The mulching ratio shows the difference between incoming debris volume and its amount after processing. 

The majority of advanced models are capable of demonstrating 10:1 and up to 16:1 ratio. However, there are some extra-powerful options like WORX WG510 Turbine Fusion featuring an unmatched 24:1 mulching ratio. 

Overall, it would be unreasonable to buy a leaf vacuum which can’t be operated in a mulching mode. Otherwise, instead of a collecting bag, your tool should come with a high-capacity waste bin or a container. The latter would increase the size and weight of a device. 

  • Impeller. All incoming debris passes through a fan system which is commonly called an impeller of a leaf vacuum. An impeller features several channels which ensure different speed of the air passing through them. This allows separating light and heavy debris – leaves and branches from dust, clods, or small pebbles. Such design contributes to the durability of a unit. Besides, a leaf vacuum impeller is typically equipped with blades which shred the sucked objects. 

A cutting system can be offered in a blade design to handle heavier and challenging debris, and it may consist of a sharpened gear that is designed to handle lighter debris. The reliability of a cutting system depends on the material it is made of. In order to prevent damage from the incoming solid objects like small rocks, pieces of wood, etc. Metal impellers would become the most preferable option capable of withstanding severer exposures. However, some high-grade advanced flexible and composite materials will also serve you well. 

Everything depends on the scope and intensity of the planned work. More than that, a high-quality impeller enhances the mulching ratio and prevents clogging. For instance, a 5-blade serrated steel impeller of the сommercial-grade Billy Goat KV600 Lawn and Litter Commercial Vacuum maximizes power output and mulching rate.  

  • Noise level. Battery-powered or an electric-corded leaf vacuum creates a tolerable noise level which is within 78 dB during operation of a unit. On the contrary, gas-powered models are very loud in operation. Their noise level commonly exceeds 98dB and requires a protective gear like ear plugs or other hearing protectors for a user. This type of leaf vacuums is designed to deal with larger cleaning projects in the areas with the permitted noise level regulations corresponding to the specs of your machine.

The Greenworks 24322 is a battery-powered leaf vacuum that features a low noise rating of 60.2 dB only.

Alternatives to a leaf vacuum & commercial vacuums

If you are still thinking whether a leaf vacuum is your case or not, we’ve found some similar options which can be a good substitution to this unit. Differently from a leaf vacuum, a leaf sweeper cleans surfaces with the help of brushes which are offered in a rotor-type and circular design. So, these devices literally sweep the surface to be cleared from undesired objects. Typically, they are made of harsh high-grade nylon. This material doesn’t damage delicate surfaces, and, at the same time, is highly efficient when dealing with heavy debris. 

A lawn sweeper collects it into an embedded hopper. Overall, you should prefer this tool if there’s a necessity to struggle with other light wastes additionally to garden debris, and you are not interested in a mulching function. The Agri-Fab 45-0218 26-Inch Push Lawn Sweeper would be a perfect choice suitable for residential purposes. 

Commercial leaf vacuums  

Commercial-grade leaf vacs are designed to maintain large territories or to clean heavy debris like thick stems, branches, strobiles, etc. For this reason, they are equipped with more powerful engines (as these high-performance machines commonly offered in a gas-powered design) which increase the weight. 

Besides, due to the ability to gather a big amount of debris, they feature a waste bin or a container (32 cu.ft. capacity) instead of a collecting low-capacity bag. Consequently, they are manufactured as wheeled devices which are quite cumbersome having a larger footprint and thus require specific and bigger room for storage. 

The high price is the last but not the least issue here. The commercial-grade models cost a lot more (about $1500) than light-duty handheld models.

In particular, the Agri-Fab 55188 Mow N Vac is a high-performance commercial-grade model suitable for various large-scale projects. It comes with an extra-large 32 cu.ft. container, and a hose designed to detect any clogging immediately. 

Top-rated leaf vacuums: electric, cordless, gas-powered

Find below the review of sophisticated solutions that meet expectations of the most demanded customers, like a comprehensive cleaning system, Turbine Fusion technology and exclusive mulching rate from Worx, unmatched power ratings from Sun Joe, and many others.

WORX WG512 TRIVAC 2.0 | Best corded 3-in-1 leaf vacuum blower/mulcher

Worx is spinning up gradually in the power tools industry. And the WG512 is at the forefront of the company’s product range. In particular, this option comprises a special kit to perform different cleaning jobs: a 3-in-1 unit operated in a blowing, vacuuming and mulching modes, a universal cleaning system compatible with the majority of modern blower/vac brands, and a 26-gallon collecting bin which can be collapsed. 

The unit is capable of generating up to 600 CFM at 75 MPH to perform the most efficient gathering of garden debris with the help of a wide-mouth nozzle. The integrated metal impeller is designed to cut debris in two stages with an outstanding 16:1 mulching ratio.

The included LeafPro cleaning system consists of a flexible hose, a mesh lid, and a set of adapters to be used with different models. The additional waste bag is made of a durable fabric with side handles to move it around easily.

Features

Air speed Max (MPH):  75

Air flow (CFM): 600 

Weight (lbs): 8.6 (weight of a unit)

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 35.5 x 10 x 14

Pros: Cons:
  • High airflow
  • Variable speed control
  • Durable impeller
  • High mulching ratio
  • Enlarged nozzle
  • Universal cleaning kit is included
  • Vacuuming is more efficient than blowing

This leaf collection bundle will give you an exceptional opportunity to keep your property free from annoying debris immediately after its delivery. 

WORX WG512 TRIVAC 2.0: Check the current price

BLACK+DECKER LSWV36 | Best high-performance battery-powered leaf vacuum with a mulcher

This battery-powered tool is offered by the highly-recognizable U.S. manufacturer of power tools and accessories to them, historically taking the lead in DIY innovative solutions.

This 40V Li-ion battery unit will become a reliable gardening assistant providing longer service life and battery capacity. More than that, it can be operated in 3 modes and easily converted from a leaf blower to vacuum with mulching and back. Thus, this unit will clear all kinds of debris from hard surfaces like patios, decks, driveways, and garages reaching up to 120 MPH with the help of its variable speed control, depending on the application. Its 6:1 reduction ratio helps to increase the running time of this unit by saving space in a 5-bushel collecting bag. An integrated scrapper will facilitate the process of gathering the most stubborn debris. The electric motor of this unit considerably reduces the noise level which is rated at 65 dB only. 

Features

Air speed Max (MPH): 120

Air flow (CFM): n/a 

Weight (lbs): 6.9

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 37 x 8.5 x 20.4

Pros: Cons:
  • High speed rating<
  • Variable speed control
  • Built-in scraper
  • Eco-friendly
  • Lightweight
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Brushless technology would be a considerable improvement

This would be a great "green" and quiet option for those who are aspiring to maintain any average-size household. 

BLACK+DECKER LSWV36: Check the current price

GREENWORKS 24322 | Low noise

The manufacturer of this battery-powered unit is known as one of the leading innovators in the eco-friendly electric technologies. This G-MAX 40V li-ion leaf blower/vacuum is a bright example of the latest achievements of the Greenworks team. 

To begin with, it features an advanced brushless motor which increases the service life of the tool up to 80% and reaches up to 30% higher performance in comparison with the previous models from the company’s lineup. The manufacturer declares that the rated capacity of the Greenworks 24322 is similar to a light-duty gas-powered model. However, its noise and vibration level is considerably lower. 

This unit is capable of generating up to 340CFM at 185 MPH to clear dry/wet light garden debris in blowing and vacuum modes. Besides, it can be operated as a mulcher to achieve a 10:1 reduction rate.  A special bottom cover prevents any contact of a user with a rotating impeller.

The advanced battery allows using this device up to 60 min without breaks before its recharge. More than that, it is compatible with 14 other G-Max 40V models from the manufacturer’s lineup to perform comprehensive maintenance of your property.

Features

Air speed Max (MPH):  185

Air flow (CFM): 340 

Weight (lbs): 5.6

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 32.5 x 8.5 x 11

Pros: Cons:
  • Brushless motor<
  • Variable speed control
  • High mulching rate
  • Lower vibration
  • Lower noise
  • Lightweight
  • Battery and charger are included
  • Expensive
  • Cruise control is absent

If you are looking for an eco-friendly substitution to a gas-powered machine, the Creenworks 24322 would become a perfect option combining power and efficiency without compromising the comfort of its user.

GREENWORKS 24322: Check the current price

SUN JOE SBJ803E | Best walk-behind leaf vacuum

Snow + Sun Joe is a well-known brand covering an entire spectrum of outdoor power tools to keep your household fancy throughout the year. The SBJ803E is a leaf blower/vac mulcher which comes in a wheeled design uncommon for electric-corded models. However, the maneuverability of this unit will be provided by durable easy-glide wheels withstanding any outdoor surfaces. Besides, there won’t be a hint of fatigue due to the continuous operation of this tool.   

The unit is equipped with a robust 14-Amp motor delivering up to 600 CFM at 165 MPH providing maximum efficiency. Its high-impact metal impeller allows mulching leaves down to 15:1 ratio. The processed amount of debris is accumulated in an 8-gallon bag. 

The convenience of its use is also ensured by an adjustable handle tailored for each operator. Besides, this possibility will contribute easy storage, as well.  

Features

Air speed Max (MPH): 165

Air flow (CFM): 650 

Weight (lbs): 18.5 

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 33.5 x 19.7 x 36.6

Pros: Cons:
  • Powerful motor
  • High power ratings
  • Rugged impeller
  • High mulching ratio
  • Maneuverability
  • Easy storage
  • Heavy
  • Poor quality bag

The Sun JOE SBJ803E is an innovative electric model in a walk-behind design which is recommended for those doing light-duty cleaning chores on a constant basis. 

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Poolmaster 28316 Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum

This handheld tool features a 15-inch ABS body with 8 high-pressure jets that generate suction. This model is made of high-quality materials and comes with an aluminum handle, 4 multi-directional wheels, reusable leaf bag, and a fine-mesh bag.

Poolmaster 28316: Check the current price

12 Best-Selling Leaf Vacuum/Leaf Sucker Comparative Table

REMINGTON RM2BV | Best gas-operated leaf vacuum

Having one of the longest histories in the U.S. power tool market, Remington has been continuously developing their lineup by upgrading the existing and releasing new equipment.

The RM2BV is a powerful 3-in-1 gas-powered blower/vac with a mulching function. The latter helps to reduce the size of the collected debris down to 10:1. This unit comes with a 2-stage engine that delivers up to 450 CFM at 205 MPH to handle larger debris more efficiently, thus saving your time. Also, it is possible to adjust the desired airflow and maintain it with the help of cruise control. There won’t be any problems with starting this model thanks to its Quickstart technology.

The vacuum attachment included will enhance the performance of a tool to tackle multiple cleaning tasks quickly and easily. The comfortable operation of this unit is also ensured by an ergonomic handle which considerably reduces vibration.

Features

Air speed Max (MPH): 205

Air flow (CFM): 450 

Weight (lbs): 12.5  

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 17.7 x 14.7 x 18

Pros: Cons:
  • Powerful engine
  • High power ratings
  • Variable speed control
  • Cruise control
  • Easy starting
  • High mulching ratio
  • Extended nozzle
  • Supplemental vac attachment
  • Heavy
  • Loud

This powerful leaf blower/vac mulcher with an additional vacuuming accessory will allow you successfully fulfilling multiple landscaping or gardening projects in no time.

REMINGTON RM2BV: Check the current price

WORX WG510 | Best with dual-stage impeller & mulching ratio 24:1

This electric-corded model features a 12-Amp motor and reaches 16,500 RPMs. Its turbine fan technology enhances the air stream thus generating up to 525 CFM at 65 MPH. Its modes of operation can be easily switched offering blowing, vacuuming, and mulching by means of interchangeable tubes. Besides, if a collecting bag is not attached, the unit will be automatically returned to a blowing mode. 

This model comes with a dual-stage metal impeller which is capable of reducing the incoming debris down to an incredible 24:1 ratio; and this is the best spec among other counterparts in its class, indeed! 

To facilitate long operations of this unit, there is a shoulder strap included, and an ergonomic handle which makes one-hand operation as a breeze.

Features

Air speed Max (MPH): 65

Air flow (CFM): 525

Weight (lbs): 9.3 

Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 40 x 10 x 13

Pros: Cons:
  • High power ratings
  • Enhanced airflow
  • Auto mode recognition
  • Dual-stage durable impeller
  • One of the highest mulching ratio
  • Affordable price
  • The declared mulching ratio can be achieved with dry debris only
  • Cruise control is absent

I bet this is an awesome affordable option that comes in an innovative design and features an outstanding capacity to cope with mid-duty cleaning tasks. 

WORX WG510: Check the current price

Are leaf vacuums worth to be purchased? | Pros&Cons 

Let’s summarize the main properties of a leaf vacuum both beneficial and negative. 

Advantages:

  • As you may realize from the above-said, the advanced leaf vacuums feature an extended functionality that is the ability to switch between blowing and mulching modes.
  • Mulching should be specially highlighted in this case as this function gives an opportunity to enlarge space for debris collection, save time, and costs, as you might get natural fertilizer or compost for your garden beds.
  • Increased power output due to the fact that vacuuming requires a more powerful motor/engine.
  • At the same time, suction is designed in a way to draw only light debris in order to prevent impeller and motor damage.
  • It is a perfect substitution of manual labour. In particular, raking is more difficult in terms of physical efforts and a more time-consuming process.
  • In spite of the sophisticated technologies applied in leaf vacuums, the handhold models designed for residential purposes are cheaper than traditional domestic vacuums.

Disadvantages:

  • Leaf vacuums being universal power tools are heavier in comparison with a leaf blower operating in one mode only.
  • Increased weight is related to a more powerful motor, heavier sucking nozzle, and a collecting bag/container.
  • Only high-performance models are equipped with super-efficient cutting systems capable of tackling wet debris efficiently shredding them into mulch.
  • The average options on the market can process light and dry garden debris only 3-in-1 leaf vacuums are generally more expensive than unifunctional devices like leaf blowers or mulchers.

Products with a 5-star rating

 

Product5 Stars Votes
Toro 51621 UltraPlus Electric Blower Vac3075(20.7%)
Worx WG509 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower3013(20.3%)
Greenworks 40V (185 MPH) Brushless Cordless Blower / Vacuum2404(16.2%)
WORX WG512 12 Amp TRIVAC 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum2109(14.2%)
BLACK+DECKER Leaf Blower/Vacuum Kit, Cordless (LSWV36)1773(12%)
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Leaf Vacuum, Mulcher, 12-Amp (BV3100)1413(9.5%)
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Leaf Vacuum, Mulcher (BEBL7000)1042(7%)

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