John Deere BH25LE of $220

John Deere BH25LE of $220 is tops. It weighs 9.8 pounds and the 4-cycle engine has lower emissions than its predecessor and contains all the features you would want. However, it's relatively noisy. Right up there with the John Deere is the Echo PB-200 of $160. It has an electronic ignition, is quieter than the John Deere and weighs a pound less.

For backpack models, the Husqvarna 356BTX of $450 and the Stihl BR-500 of $460 each weigh 23 pounds and provide 180 mph of blowing power. Husqvarna ranks better for comfort than the Stihl, but the Stihl is a tad quieter and uses a hybrid 2-and 4-cycle engine to lower emissions and sound. Economy models that rated high include the Echo Pro Lite of $300 and Husqvrarna 125BT of $200.

For wheeled models, Little Wonder SHO 9502 of $700 is tops, with a powerful 5 horsepower Honda engine, well-controlled air flow and good front-wheel maneuverability. The Yard Machine 021H Chipper Shredder Vacuum combines a chipper with a blower and also can be a good choice.

Source:coloradoan.com