John Smith Tired of raking? The right leaf blower Toro can turn a leaf apocalypse into five minutes of easy cleanup.
Leaves always show up uninvited. They crowd paths, choke gutters, and make lawns look neglected — until the right leaf blower Toro gets to work.
They want tools that are powerful, quiet enough for the neighborhood, and smart about mulching. Quick cleanup, less bag hauling, and fewer trips to the compost pile matter. These picks balance raw power, cordless convenience, and real mulching performance.
Top Picks
UltraPlus Blower Vac with Oscillating Nozzle
Built around a metal impeller and a patented shredding ring, it reduces leaf volume dramatically and includes an oscillating nozzle to cover more ground. It’s a strong choice for homeowners who want an effective vacuum/mulcher rather than just a blower.
What it is and who it’s for
The UltraPlus is a corded blower/vac built for homeowners who want more than just blowing — it’s optimized for mulching and reducing leaf volume. The package adds a patented Shredz‑All shred ring and an oscillating nozzle, which together improve shred quality and coverage compared with many competitors.
Key features and benefits
Those design choices make it particularly effective at reducing bag trips and producing mulch that’s practical for garden beds. Reviewers report excellent vacuuming power, ability to intake large leaves and reasonable balance for the performance.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
The unit’s power and metal impeller add weight, which can fatigue users during long sessions. It’s corded, so longer jobs may require strategically placed extension cords. While the unit is loud at high output, the efficiency and mulch reduction can make the louder sessions shorter overall.
Use tips
For anyone who wants to minimize bag volume and get compostable mulch from yard leaves, this is one of the better corded, heavy‑duty electric options. It trades some weight and noise for excellent mulching and coverage features.
60V Brushless Cordless Blower with Turbo
Combines high airflow with a brushless motor for strong, efficient performance and longer life. It’s a versatile cordless option for users invested in a 60V battery ecosystem who want torque and convenience without gas maintenance.
What it is and who it’s for
This is a 60‑volt brushless cordless leaf blower that emphasizes cordless convenience without compromising on raw airflow. It targets homeowners who want gas‑like performance in a battery platform — especially those who already own or plan to buy Toro’s 60V batteries and tools.
Key features and benefits
Those features make yard work faster: clearing sidewalks, driveways, gutters and larger yards in a single battery charge for typical jobs. Users who already have the 60V battery ecosystem will find the value multiplies across string trimmers, mowers, and other tools.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
The unit is heavier with the battery attached, which can make long sessions tiring compared with very light handheld corded blowers. Runtime depends on battery capacity and workload; heavy use with turbo will drain a standard battery faster, so an extra battery can be a useful investment. The convenience of instant startup and no gas mixing offsets those tradeoffs for many users.
Use tips
Overall, this blower strikes a strong balance between cordless convenience and performance. It’s a top pick for homeowners who value mobility and are willing to invest in the 60V battery system for multiple tools.
Variable‑Speed Ultra Blower/Vac, 235 MPH
Offers infinite variable speed control and a sturdy metal impeller for reliable mulching and blowing across many yard tasks. It’s a solid choice for users who want fine control over airflow and the ability to switch between blower and vacuum quickly.
What it is and who it’s for
This Ultra model is a corded electric blower/vac designed with an infinite variable speed motor and metal impeller. It sits between lightweight consumer blowers and heavier commercial equipment, aimed at homeowners who want control over airflow and effective mulching without dealing with gas engines.
Key features and benefits
Those features combine to deliver a tool that handles a wide variety of yardwork: edging, blowing debris from tight spaces, vacuuming piles into a bag, and shredding leaves for compost or reduced waste pickup.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
It’s heavier than basic handheld blowers and still tethered by a cord; for very large properties a cordless system or ride‑on attachment might be preferable. Some users note that some plastic clips and attachments feel less resilient than the motor housing, so care during assembly and storage will extend service life.
Use tips
In short, this model is a reliable, controllable choice for homeowners who want performance and versatility without the maintenance of gas engines. It balances speed and volume well, making it a practical everyday tool for yard cleanup.
Corded 3‑in‑1 Blower Vac, 250 MPH
Delivers strong airflow and a metal impeller that shreds leaves to dramatically reduce bag volume. It’s a practical choice for homeowners who prioritize mulching performance and consistent corded power over cordless convenience.
What it is and who it’s for
The unit is a corded 3‑in‑1 blower/vac/shredder that prioritizes mulching power. It features a larger metal impeller and delivers up to 250 mph air speed with strong vacuum CFM numbers, making it a good fit for homeowners who want to reduce bag volume and turn leaves into usable mulch.
Key features and benefits
The result is reliable, repeatable performance for typical yard cleanup tasks: driveway and patio sweep-up, bagging leaves, and light debris shredding for compost. Users who value consistent torque and mulching will appreciate how much leaf volume this model can reduce.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
It is heavier and tethered by a cord, so it’s less convenient for very large properties or repeated long‑duration use away from outlets. Noise and vibration are also present at high speeds; hearing protection is recommended for extended sessions. The corded design does, however, avoid battery recharge/replacement costs and delivers full power until the outlet is disconnected.
Use tips
Overall, this model is a sensible middle ground for homeowners who want strong mulching performance without the premium price of some cordless systems. It pairs power and practical mulching capability with the tradeoffs of corded operation.
60V Bare Blower — Battery Not Included
Offers the same brushless platform performance but is sold without a battery and charger, which lowers the upfront cost for users who already own compatible batteries. It’s a practical choice if you’re invested in a 60V system and want a lighter tool without an installed battery.
What it is and who it’s for
This is the same 60‑volt brushless blower platform frequently praised for its airflow and features, but offered as the bare tool without battery or charger. It’s aimed at homeowners who already own Toro 60V batteries or those who want to add this tool to a growing cordless toolset without buying duplicate batteries.
Key features and benefits
If the buyer already owns a 60V battery, this is often the most cost‑effective route to get a high‑performing blower. Performance and runtime will be the same as other 60V models when an appropriate battery is installed.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
The main drawback is the additional cost and planning: a compatible battery and charger must be purchased separately if the buyer doesn’t already own them. A few users report quality control issues; as with many battery systems, reliability can vary. Testing the blower with a high‑capacity battery will yield the best runtime for larger tasks.
Use tips
For those already invested in the 60V platform, this bare tool is an economical way to get cordless power without paying again for batteries. For new users, the bundled model with battery may represent better immediate value.
Lightweight 2‑Speed Corded Blower
Simple two‑speed design and low weight make it easy to use for short cleanup jobs and tight spaces. It’s an affordable, no‑frills option that performs well for driveways, patios, and light leaf work.
What it is and who it’s for
This is a compact, corded 7‑amp blower with a two‑speed control intended for homeowners who need a lightweight tool for quick cleanups. It suits small yards, sidewalks, patios and vehicles where portability and price matter more than heavy-duty mulching or long runtime.
Key features and benefits
Those features make it particularly good for quick jobs—clearing wet leaves from a porch, sweeping grass clippings off a sidewalk, or pushing debris away from hardscapes. Multiple reviewers cite durability over years of use, though experiences vary.
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
Because it’s designed as an entry‑level, lightweight blower, it can’t match the CFM or shredding capability of larger 3‑in‑1 units. Heavy wet leaves, deep mulch, or prolonged commercial‑style work will quickly expose its limits. Some owners report vibration or occasional durability problems after long service.
Use tips
For someone who needs a simple, light blower for occasional yard maintenance, this model is a practical pick—just don’t expect the power or longevity of more robust models intended for heavy use.
Final Thoughts
Best overall for heavy cleanup and mulching: UltraPlus Blower Vac with Oscillating Nozzle (9.2). It pairs a metal impeller with a patented shredding ring and an oscillating nozzle to cover more ground and shrink leaf volume dramatically. They should choose this model if they want a true vacuum/mulcher that turns pile-prone yards into manageable compostable material — ideal for homeowners with large lawns, heavy leaf seasons, or those who hate emptying full bags.
Best cordless pick for power and convenience: 60V Brushless Cordless Blower with Turbo (9.0). Its brushless motor delivers strong airflow and long life, and it fits into a 60V battery ecosystem for fast, gas-free jobs. They should pick this if they value mobility, high torque, and fewer maintenance headaches — great for medium-to-large yards where a cord is a nuisance and quick, powerful runs matter.
The Toro 51585 is such a delight for my tiny townhouse yard. It’s light, starts instantly, and is perfect for patio mess and quick driveway cleanups. Didn’t expect much but it’s been reliable. 👍
Same here — bought one for my condo and it replaced my old broom. Cheap and cheerful.
Great to hear, Priya. The 51585 is underrated for small, frequent cleanups — low weight is its biggest selling point.
I bought the Toro 60-Volt Max cordless last season and it’s been a game changer for my small yard. No gas, decent runtime with the 2.5 Ah, and it actually moves a surprising amount of leaves for a cordless. Battery life is the only downside if you have a huge property.
Would recommend if you already own other 60V tools or plan to expand the system.
Brian — for me it’s about 20-30 mins on medium before it starts to drop. If you have more than a quarter acre, I’d get a 4Ah or 5Ah spare. YMMV depending on leaf density.
How long does the 2.5Ah battery actually last under medium load? Thinking about upgrading but not sure if I need a higher Ah battery.
Thanks for sharing, Emily — glad it’s been working well for you. If anyone needs tips on stretching battery life (like lower speed for light cleanup or keeping a spare charged), I can share a few tricks.
The UltraPlus (51621) sounds awesome on paper with that metal impeller and shredding ring, but dang it feels heavy after 15 minutes. If you have to hold it overhead for hedges or long stretches, prepare your biceps. 😅
Good point, Mark. The mulching/vacuum strength often means more weight. For long sessions, consider taking breaks or switching between blower and rake, or look at the lighter cordless options listed.
Agree — I alternate hands every 5 minutes and that helps. Also, straps or an anti-fatigue grip can make a surprising difference.
Help me decide: I’m torn between the 51621 UltraPlus and the 51609 Ultra. I want mulching power but also don’t want something too bulky. Which one would you pick and why? Also, does the oscillating nozzle on the 51621 really make a difference?
Thanks everyone — leaning 51621 now. Appreciate the real-world answers.
If you have lots of leaves and want less bag-emptying, 51621. If you want better control around flowerbeds go 51609.
Both are great. Quick take: 51621 is more focused on intensive mulching and the oscillating nozzle helps cover more ground and reduce time on big piles. 51609 gives more variable control and is slightly lighter. If mulching volume reduction is your priority, go 51621; for balance and ease, 51609.
I picked the 51621 for mulching — yes the oscillating nozzle mattered for me when moving larger piles. Saved hours. But it’s heavier, so be ready.
Noise concerns: I have neighbors close by and want to be considerate. Which Toro model is the quietest while still offering decent performance? I don’t want to wake the whole block at 8am.
I use the cordless and it’s noticeably quieter than my neighbor’s gas blower. Way less intrusive.
Cordless brushless 60V models (like the 60-Volt Max) are generally quieter than corded high-amperage models and gas blowers. The 60V with brushless motor is a good compromise between performance and lower noise. Still, use lower speed settings for early morning.
Long post: I’ve been using the Toro 51609 Ultra for two years. Small rant and then praise.
Rant: The corded setup means I have to babysit the extension cord while cleaning flower beds. Once I forgot and managed to zap a flowerpot. Oops.
Praise: The variable speed control is actually genuinely useful. I can dial it down around delicate plants and crank it up on the driveway. The metal impeller mulches leaves nicely — my compost pile is happier now.
Overall: If you want control and consistent power (and don’t mind the cord), it’s been the best balance for me.
Thanks, Sarah — that sounds exactly like what I need. Do you use a specific extension cord gauge? I keep hearing 12/3 vs 14/3 debate.
Thanks for the detailed breakdown, Sarah. Good tip about watching the extension cord around beds. For awkward areas, the lighter 51585 might be less risky.
Martin — I use a 12/3 heavy-duty extension (outdoor rated). Anything thinner and you lose voltage, plus it can make the motor run hotter.
I bought the Toro 51609 because I like the variable speed control. Now the leaves fear me. 😂
Seriously though, it’s fun to use and actually makes yard work less dreadful. Weird how that works.
Ha — leaves don’t stand a chance! Glad you’re enjoying the tool. Variable speed does make it more versatile for different chores.
Same feeling. It’s like a leaf-zapper. Only downside: my dog now thinks it’s a new toy and follows me around.
I already own a couple of Toro 60V batteries from my trimmer. Buying the cordless blower (battery included model) seemed like a no-brainer. It’s fast, light with battery, and I don’t miss the cord. If you’re already invested in a brand’s battery ecosystem, stick with it — huge convenience.
Same boat here. My yard tools all use the same battery and it makes weekend work so much easier.
Absolutely — battery ecosystems can save money and simplify charging. Good point about cross-compatibility.
One tip: keep at least one spare battery charged during peak leaf season.
I live in a neighborhood with long driveways. Corded models are a pain because of the cords getting tangled or not reaching. Does anyone have a recommended extension cord gauge to use with the 12 amp Toro models? I don’t want to underpower the blower.
Use a heavy-duty 12/3 or thicker outdoor-rated extension cord for 12 amp tools to avoid voltage drop. Anything thinner may cause the motor to run hot or reduce performance.
Perfect — thanks both. I’ll pick up a 12/3 100ft and test it out.
12/3 worked for me with a 75ft extension — no issues. If you go longer than 100ft, consider a reel or step up in gauge.
Long question: Has anyone compared the bagging capacity vs mulching reduction on the corded 51619 vs the UltraPlus 51621? I’m trying to decide if a powerful mulcher will actually save me time on weekly cleanups or if I’ll spend more time emptying tiny bags.
Extra context: I have maple trees that produce fine papery leaves and some larger oak leaves. Also worried about dust when mulching — are these dusty machines?
Good question, Helen. The UltraPlus (51621) with the shredding ring and metal impeller tends to reduce leaf volume more, so fewer bag empties overall. Dust can be an issue with dry leaves — wear eye protection and a mask if you’re sensitive. For mixed leaf size, mulching saves overall trips to the curb but does increase shredding dust a bit.
I own the 51619 and the bag fills slower than expected because of the aggressive mulching. But yes, on very dry leaves it creates a dust cloud — gloves & mask recommended.
Thanks — that helps. I guess I’ll get the UltraPlus and keep a dust mask handy. 👍
So the 115 MPH 605 CFM blower that comes WITHOUT battery… brilliant marketing. “Buy our tool, then also buy our wallet.”
Seriously though, it’s a decent option if you already have Toro batteries. Otherwise, it’s just a tease.
Totally understandable frustration, Carlos. Many manufacturers sell ‘tool-only’ models to let users save if they already own compatible batteries. If you’re starting fresh, factor in the battery+charger cost when comparing.
I ended up buying the kit with battery because I wanted one tool that fit all my needs. It was pricier upfront but I use the battery on my mower and trimmer too, so it paid off.
Concerned about durability: several models here tout a metal impeller. Has anyone had to replace that part or deal with damage from twigs/sticks? I’m worried about rocks and hidden debris destroying the impeller and causing costly repairs.
Would love real-world experiences — are these impellers robust or delicate?
Metal impellers are more durable than plastic counterparts and are designed to handle normal yard debris. That said, hitting a hard rock or large branch can still damage them. Regularly check and avoid sucking up big sticks. If you mulch a lot, metal is usually the safer bet long-term.
I’ve had mine run over a small branch and it survived. But a bigger rock did bend it once — replacement was a pain but cheaper than a whole motor.