Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you choose links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Keep your yard clean and tidy the easy way.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens / Halee Miller
To find the best leaf vacuums, we tested several models at home on our lawns.
Its more expensive than other options.
During testing, the Billy Goat Lawn Vacuum blew us away in more ways than one.
Credit: Lowe’s
This lawnmower-like machine is made with several helpful features, including variable height adjustment to accommodate multiple users.
Assembly instructions were thorough and understandable, and it practically came ready to go straight from the box.
We also had to add oil, which we purchased separately.
We appreciated the high-quality wheels of this model, which made it even easier to maneuver.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Halee Miller
This vacuum has a single throttle/kill switch lever, and a bar that activates the self-propel feature.
We like that it is conveniently located right where your hands go to steer.
Despite being a heavier model, it was incredibly easy to maneuver and felt lightweight for its size.
Although it was efficient, we would have preferred its 27-inch clearing width to be a bit wider.
We noted that this vac isnt too loud and starts quickly and easily.
Its a bit heavier than some other handheld models.
This model comes with a vacuum tube, a blower tube, and a collection bag.
Setting up this leaf vacuum was easy thanks to straightforward instructions with only four simple steps.
Theres a latch that opens and closes to change the blower function to a vacuum, and vice versa.
Also included is a battery and a charger.
There’s even an indicator on the handle that shows the amount of battery life left.
Operating this models two separate functions was intuitive as theyre both controlled with the same buttons.
However, it did struggle a little bit lifting clippings from the rug after it had rained.
During testing, we found that its blowing feature was equally as good.
It needs precise positioning for vacuuming.
For smaller and medium-sized yards, we recommend this unit from Worx.
Plus, it comes with step-by-step photo instructions that make it even easier.
The controls are straightforward, although the on/off switch needed to be pressed a little harder.
Credit: Amazon
We tested it out on a 164-square-foot garden with both grass and concrete sections.
The mulcher did an excellent job reducing the volume of grass clippings and chopped up the leaves effectively.
In relation to the noise level, its about as loud as a regular vacuum cleaner.
This Greenworks Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower/Vacuum effectively cleared debris on a variety of surfaces.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Ashley Schaubroeck
The unit is less than 10 pounds and ideal for small and medium yards.
Our best walk-behind pick is powerful and ideal for different types of debris.
Consider your physical strength and yard size, says McCoy.
A lighter vacuum is easier to maneuver, especially for extended use.
Most leaf vacuums will have a cfm of somewhere around 300 to 500.
A higher air speed allows the vacuum to lift heavier and/or stuck leaves.
A model with an air-speed rating of around 150 to 200 mph is ideal for residential use.
By balancing weight, cfm, and mph, you might find the right tool for your yard maintenance.
However, this unit is almost 13 pounds, so we found it quite challenging to maneuver.
Theres also no low-battery alert; you only know that its about to die when the motor gets sluggish.
When shopping for a leaf vacuum, there are options at various price points.
Some high-end models, like theBilly Goat Lawn Vacuum, can cost over $1,000.
How does a leaf vacuum differ from a leaf blower and leaf mulcher?
Some machines, like theGreenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower/Vacuum, can do it all.
de Naoum has been writing for Dotdash Meredith since 2019, andBetter Homes & Gardenssince 2021.
For this article, she referenced testing insights collected from at-home use.
She also spoke toStephen Baker, a category manager at Greenworks Tools, and Lowes store managerGary McCoy.
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval.
In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
Credit: Lowe’s
This Worx model is a leaf vacuum, a leaf blower, and a mulcher all in one.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Jasmine Smith
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens / Ashley Schaubroeck
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens / Kim Vogt
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens / Rafa Soriano
