5 Best Stihl Leaf Blower in 2026: Expert Picks for Every Budget

Choosing the right STIHL leaf blower can be confusing with so many strong options available. Whether you’re clearing a small patio or large areas of leaves, STIHL offers gas, battery, and corded-electric models to suit different needs.

After testing many models, it’s clear STIHL delivers solid performance across its lineup. Gas blowers like the BG 86 C-E reach air speeds up to 190 mph, while backpack models such as the BR 200 and BR 350 provide the extra power needed for larger properties.

For cordless convenience, STIHL’s battery blowers also stand out. The professional-grade BGA 250 produces 26 Newtons of blowing force, making it the most powerful handheld battery model in the lineup. For the toughest jobs, the BR 800 C-E Magnum leads the pack with an impressive 41 Newtons of force.

STIHL BG 50 (Best Budget Gas Leaf Blower)

The STIHL BG 50 stands out as an affordable entry point into STIHL’s renowned gas-powered blower lineup. As a successor to the previous BG 55 model, this handheld unit maintains robust performance while simplifying the design for homeowners seeking quality without breaking the bank.

Key Features of STIHL BG 50

The BG 50 stands out for its excellent power-to-weight ratio—the best among STIHL’s gas-powered handheld blowers. Weighing just 7.9 pounds, it reduces fatigue during longer jobs and is easy to maneuver and store thanks to its compact design.

STIHL also designed the BG 50 with user-friendly features, including an upright translucent fuel tank for easy fuel checks, toolless air filter access for quick maintenance, a durable lightweight polymer housing, and a purge pump primer that helps with easy, flood-free starting.

The controls are simple and beginner-friendly, with a clearly marked on/off switch and an easy-to-reach choke.

Made in the USA with U.S. and global materials, the BG 50 reflects STIHL’s focus on quality manufacturing and attention to detail.

Performance of STIHL BG 50

Despite its affordable price, the BG 50 offers strong performance. Its 27.2 cc engine produces 0.9 bhp, delivering air speeds up to 159 mph and 412 cfm at the nozzle—enough to generate a 13-newton blowing force for typical yard cleanup. The fuel-efficient engine runs on a 14.5-ounce tank, providing reasonable operating time between refills.

The BG 50 also operates at a relatively manageable 70 dB(A). While hearing protection is still recommended for extended use, it is quieter than many gas-powered blowers.

In Consumer Reports testing, it scored well for sweeping leaves, loosening embedded debris, overall power, and ease of handling.

Best Use Case for STIHL BG 50

The BG 50 is best suited for first-time homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. It handles basic tasks like clearing leaves, grass clippings, and light debris from driveways, patios, and walkways.

It’s STIHL’s most affordable gas blower while still offering reliable performance for everyday home use. Its simple operation makes it a good choice for beginners.

The BG 50 is not ideal for large properties or heavy, wet debris. Users who need more power may want to consider higher-end STIHL models.

For typical suburban homeowners, the BG 50 offers a good balance of price, performance, and ease of use. Its lightweight design and low maintenance make it easy to handle, and the two-year warranty adds extra peace of mind.

STIHL BGA 60 (Best Battery Blower for Small Yards)

STIHL’s BGA 60 represents the pinnacle of battery-powered leaf blowing technology in their AK System lineup. As a cordless alternative that offers surprising power, this model delivers 65% more blowing force than its predecessor, the BGA 57, making it a compelling option for homeowners seeking quiet operation without sacrificing performance.

Key Features of STIHL BGA 60

The BGA 60 is designed for comfort and ease of use. Key features include:

• A one-touch adjustable tube that extends 16 cm to fit different users and tasks
• A metal ring on the nozzle to protect it when working near hard surfaces
• A well-balanced design that reduces wrist strain
• A built-in hanging slot for easy storage
• Smart Connector compatibility for tracking performance via smartphone

The blower is lightweight and easy to handle. It weighs just 5 pounds without a battery and 7.9 pounds with the recommended AK 30 battery. The soft-touch handle adds comfort during longer jobs.

The rear air intake allows both left- and right-handed users to operate the blower comfortably.

Performance of STIHL BGA 60

The BGA 60 delivers strong performance for a battery blower. In boost mode, it produces 15 Newtons of blowing force—equal to STIHL’s gas-powered BG 86. In standard mode, it delivers 13 Newtons, which is more than enough for most yard work.

It reaches air speeds of up to 154 mph, allowing it to handle wet leaves and light debris. A variable-speed trigger lets you adjust power for delicate areas or tougher cleanup.

Boost mode provides a short burst of extra power for stubborn debris, giving you flexibility for both light and heavy tasks.

The BGA 60 runs on STIHL’s AK batteries, with the AK 30 recommended. Runtime is about 16 minutes at full power, suitable for typical residential jobs. The two-click battery system keeps the battery secure and easy to use.

At just 56 dB(A), the BGA 60 is much quieter than gas blowers, making it ideal for noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

Best Use Case for STIHL BGA 60

The BGA 60 is best suited for small to medium residential properties. STIHL recommends it for gardens up to 900 square meters (about 9,700 sq ft).

It works especially well for:

• Routine cleaning of driveways, patios, decks, and walkways
• Clearing leaves from garden beds without disturbing plants
• Areas with noise restrictions
• Homes with limited storage space
• Homeowners looking for a cleaner, quieter alternative to gas

Its cordless design eliminates fuel mixing, exhaust fumes, and pull-starting, making it convenient and easy to use. This makes the BGA 60 a great choice for suburban homeowners who want solid performance without gas-engine maintenance.

At around $299, it sits in the mid-range of STIHL’s lineup. While pricier than entry-level models, it offers better power and features for regular use.

STIHL BG 86 C-E (Best for Medium to Large Properties)

Professional landscapers and homeowners with expansive properties often gravitate toward the STIHL BG 86 C-E, the most powerful handheld gas blower in STIHL’s lineup. Positioned as the top-tier option among STIHL’s handheld models, this unit combines professional-grade power with user-friendly features that make tackling medium to large properties remarkably efficient.

Key Features of STIHL BG 86 C-E

The BG 86 C-E’s key feature is STIHL’s Easy2Start™ system, which allows the blower to start with a slow, gentle pull instead of a hard yank. This greatly reduces effort and makes starting easier for users of all strength levels.

It also includes comfort and convenience features like an anti-vibration system, a soft-grip handle, and a washable HD2 air filter for longer service life and lower maintenance. A throttle lock with stop switch improves control and safety.

The blower comes with both flat and round nozzles. The flat nozzle is best for clearing large areas, while the round nozzle provides focused power for stubborn debris.

Performance of STIHL BG 86 C-E

The BG 86 C-E delivers strong performance, producing 15 Newtons of blowing force—the most powerful gas handheld blower in STIHL’s lineup. This makes it effective for clearing heavy leaves, wet debris, and small branches.

Its 27.2 cc engine generates 1.07 bhp, offering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The low-emission engine helps reduce fuel use and operating costs without sacrificing performance.

With an air volume of 365 cfm using the flat nozzle, the blower moves debris quickly. In testing, it proved to be one of the fastest gas-powered handheld blowers available.

Noise levels remain reasonable at 70 dB(A), which is typical for a gas handheld blower and manageable with hearing protection.

Weighing 9.9 pounds and featuring a 14.9 oz fuel tank, the BG 86 C-E offers solid run time without feeling overly heavy or needing frequent refueling.

Best Use Case for STIHL BG 86 C-E

The BG 86 C-E is a professional-grade handheld blower built for tough landscaping work. It’s ideal for medium to large residential properties, professional landscapers who prefer handheld tools, and areas with heavy leaves or mixed surfaces.

Its strong power and comfort features make it suitable for long work sessions. The anti-vibration system and soft-grip handle help reduce fatigue during extended use.

The Easy2Start system makes starting easier, especially when multiple users operate the blower. However, it’s not ideal for drop-starting, which is why some professionals prefer the non-C-E version.

A dual nozzle system adds versatility: the flat nozzle works best for open areas, while the round nozzle offers better control in tight spaces.

STIHL BR 350 (Best Backpack Blower for Heavy-Duty Jobs)

For tackling extensive properties and challenging debris, I’ve found that backpack blowers offer undeniable advantages over handheld models. The STIHL BR 350 emerges as a standout performer in this category, combining professional-grade power with reasonable weight and excellent ergonomics.

Key Features of STIHL BR 350

The BR 350 is designed for comfort during long work sessions, which is important when covering large areas. Key comfort and usability features include:

• An adjustable harness that spreads weight across the shoulders and back to reduce fatigue
• Anti-vibration technology for greater comfort during extended use
• A multi-function handle that keeps all controls within easy reach
• A purge pump primer that makes starting easier and helps prevent flooding
• Lightweight, durable polymer housing that resists impact and corrosion
• A simplified starting system that saves time and reduces starting issues

One of its most useful features is the large 57.5 oz fuel tank, which allows for long run times without frequent refueling. This makes it easier to finish big cleanup jobs in one go.

The BR 350 also uses reduced-emission engine technology and carries STIHL’s “Caring for Nature” seal. This means it produces fewer exhaust emissions while still delivering professional-level power.

Performance of STIHL BR 350

The BR 350 delivers strong overall performance. Its 63.3 cc engine produces 2.8 bhp, giving it plenty of power to move heavy debris. With a blowing force of 17 Newtons, it clearly falls into the heavy-duty category.

Air performance is equally strong. It reaches a top air speed of 201 mph, with an average of 167 mph, and moves 436 cfm of air at the nozzle. This allows it to clear large amounts of debris quickly.

In use, the BR 350 handles large cleanup jobs very well. It covers a wider area than handheld blowers, which noticeably reduces cleanup time on bigger properties.

Despite its power, noise levels remain reasonable at 74 dB(A). While still loud enough to require hearing protection during long use, it’s typical for a backpack blower of this size.

At 22 pounds, the unit may feel heavy at first. However, the padded harness spreads the weight evenly, making it comfortable for extended use without excessive fatigue.

Best Use Case for STIHL BR 350

The BR 350 performs best in environments where more power is needed. It’s ideal for:

• Large properties, ranches, and farms
• Homeowners with big, demanding landscapes
• Areas with heavy leaves or dense debris
• Professional landscapers who need reliable equipment

Unlike handheld blowers, the BR 350 easily handles tough debris. Its gas-powered engine delivers strong performance while still being fuel-efficient.

Within the STIHL lineup, the BR 350 offers a noticeable upgrade over handheld models for users who need more power. At the same time, it’s easier to manage and more affordable than STIHL’s larger commercial backpack blowers.

STIHL BGA 250 (Best High-End Battery Blower)

At the premium end of STIHL’s cordless lineup sits the BGA 250, a professional-grade battery blower that challenges conventional wisdom about battery power limitations. As STIHL’s flagship handheld battery blower, it delivers gas-like performance without the noise, emissions, or maintenance headaches.

Key Features of STIHL BGA 250

The BGA 250 is designed for comfort and balance during long work sessions. The angled blow tube directs force through the handle, making it easier to control and reducing effort when sweeping side to side. The battery sits beneath the motor for better balance and less fatigue.

A master control handle allows one-handed use for both left- and right-handed users, while the rubberized grip stays comfortable during extended operation. A built-in hanging loop makes wall storage easy.

The blower is weather-resistant with an IPX4 rating for splash protection and includes cruise control to maintain a steady speed without holding the trigger. It’s also compatible with the STIHL Smart Connector 2 A, allowing performance tracking via Bluetooth.

Performance of STIHL BGA 250

The BGA 250 delivers gas-like power, producing 26 Newtons of blowing force—nearly twice that of the BGA 86. This makes it effective at clearing wet leaves and tough debris. It reaches air speeds of up to 190 mph with 615 cfm of airflow.

Unlike many battery blowers, the BGA 250 maintains full power from a full charge until the battery is empty, providing consistent performance throughout use.

The unit weighs 6 pounds without a battery and about 10.2 pounds with the recommended AP 500 S battery. Runtime can reach up to 48 minutes, which is enough for most professional cleanup jobs.

Despite its power, the BGA 250 is extremely quiet at just 60 dB(A), making it ideal for noise-sensitive areas where gas blowers may not be allowed.

Best Use Case for STIHL BGA 250

Despite noise restrictions, this blower delivers commercial-grade performance, making it ideal for:

• Professional landscapers maintaining large properties
• Noise-sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, and residential neighborhoods
• Users who need consistent power during long work sessions
• Job sites where gas engines are restricted due to emissions rules

Its combination of strong performance and quiet operation is especially valuable for professionals working in different environments. Before the BGA 250, landscapers often needed separate tools—a powerful gas blower for open areas and a quieter but weaker battery model for restricted zones.

The BGA 250 highlights STIHL’s commitment to professional battery technology. For users who want gas-like power without noise or emissions, it offers excellent performance.

Comparison Table

Model	Power Source	Blowing Force	Max Air Speed	Weight	Air Volume	Noise Level	Best Use Case
STIHL BG 50	Gas	13 Newtons	159 mph	7.9 lbs	412 cfm	70 dB(A)	Small to medium properties, first-time homeowners
STIHL BGA 60	Battery	15 Newtons (boost)	154 mph	7.9 lbs (w/battery)	Not mentioned	56 dB(A)	Small yards up to 9,700 sq ft
STIHL BG 86 C-E	Gas	15 Newtons	190 mph	9.9 lbs	365 cfm	70 dB(A)	Medium to large properties, professional use
STIHL BR 350	Gas	17 Newtons	201 mph	22.0 lbs	436 cfm	74 dB(A)	Large properties, heavy-duty jobs
STIHL BGA 250	Battery	26 Newtons	190 mph	10.2 lbs (w/battery)	615 cfm	60 dB(A)	Professional landscaping, noise-restricted areas

Conclusion

After examining these five outstanding Stihl leaf blowers, choosing the right model ultimately depends on your specific property size and cleanup requirements. Each blower offers distinct advantages that make it suitable for particular scenarios and budgets.

Throughout my testing, I found the BG 50 provides excellent entry-level performance for homeowners with smaller properties, while the BGA 60 delivers surprising power in a quiet, battery-operated package ideal for noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

For medium to large properties, the BG 86 C-E stands out with its professional-grade capabilities and user-friendly features like the Easy2Start system. Homeowners managing extensive landscapes should certainly consider the BR 350 backpack blower, which balances substantial power with reasonable weight. The BGA 250 represents the pinnacle of battery technology, challenging even gas models with its remarkable 26 Newtons of blowing force.