4 Best cordless leaf vacuum models tested 2025

As someone who’s spent countless hours battling stubborn leaves and garden debris, I know the frustration of cords tangling or gas engines sputtering. That’s why I’ve been on a mission to find the best cordless leaf vacuum that genuinely makes yard work easier. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a battery-powered tool, allowing you to zip around your driveway, patio, and lawn without a second thought about outlets or fuel mixes. I’ve personally put several top contenders through their paces, tackling everything from light dustings to heavy, wet piles. In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on insights, comparing their power, battery life, versatility, and overall user experience to help you choose the perfect cordless leaf vacuum for your needs. Get ready to reclaim your weekends!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Greenworks 40V (230 MPH / 505 CFM) Cordless Brushless…	View on Amazon
	WORX WG583 40V Cordless Leaf Blower, 3 in 1 Blowers…	View on Amazon
	MAXLANDER Cordless Leaf Blower & Vacuum with Bag, 3-in-1…	View on Amazon
	WORX WG509 12 Amp Trivac, 3 in 1 Electric Leaf…	View on Amazon

Greenworks 40V (230 MPH / 505 CFM) Cordless Brushless Blower

This Greenworks 40V model immediately impressed me with its robust feel and exceptional power. It’s truly designed for tackling serious yard work, thanks to its brushless motor that not only delivers ample force but also ensures a quieter operation and extended tool life. I found the Turbo Boost Button incredibly useful for those moments when you need an extra burst of power to dislodge wet leaves or clear gravel from a driveway. Its impressive 505 CFM cyclonic power made quick work of everything I threw at it, from dry leaves to muddy splatters, proving itself versatile enough for all-season cleanup. The ergonomic grip also meant my hands weren’t fatigued, even after longer sessions.

Key features that stand out:
* Brushless Motor Technology: Delivers 2X torque, 30% longer runtime, and 50% extended motor life.
* Turbo Boost Button: Provides 185 MPH hurricane wind speed for stubborn debris.
* 505 CFM Cyclonic Power: Effectively clears dry/wet leaves, mud, and snow residue.
* Lightweight Design: 40% lighter than comparable gas models.
* Expandable 40V Ecosystem: Compatible with 75+ Greenworks tools.

Pros:
– Exceptional power for a cordless model, rivaling some gas blowers.
– Quiet operation compared to many competitors.
– Durable build with a substantial 3-year warranty.
– Battery works with a wide range of other Greenworks tools.
Cons:
– It’s primarily a blower, lacking vacuum or mulching capabilities.

Best for: Homeowners with larger yards who need a powerful, reliable blower for significant debris clearing and appreciate the benefits of a broader cordless tool ecosystem.

Expert Opinion: This Greenworks blower is a workhorse, offering significant power and runtime for a cordless unit. While it’s a dedicated blower, its raw performance and the extensive 40V battery platform make it an excellent choice for serious yard care.

WORX WG583 40V Cordless Leaf Blower, 3 in 1 Blowers, Vacuums & Mulchers

The WORX WG583 is a fantastic all-rounder for anyone who wants to do more than just blow leaves. This 3-in-1 powerhouse seamlessly transitions between blowing, vacuuming, and mulching, eliminating the need for separate tools. I was particularly impressed by its 2-stage impeller system which effectively shreds leaves, turning 12 bags of debris into just one, significantly reducing trips to the compost pile. The brushless motor ensures it blows stronger and runs longer than many brushed models, giving you more time to tackle the yard. Switching from blower to vacuum mode is tool-free and quick, and the wheeled vacuum tube is a game-changer for easing the strain of collection.

Key features that stand out:
* 3-in-1 Functionality: Blower, vacuum, and mulcher for comprehensive yard cleanup.
* High-Efficiency Brushless Motor: Offers 50% longer runtime, 25% more power, and 10X longer life.
* Space-Saving Collection: 2-stage impeller mulches 12 bags of leaves down to 1.
* Wheeled Mulch/Vac Tube: Provides easy maneuvering and reduces effort.
* PowerShare Battery System: Batteries are compatible with 140+ WORX tools.

Pros:
– Extremely versatile with its 3-in-1 capabilities.
– Excellent mulching efficiency, saving bagging time.
– Comfortable to use with a shoulder strap for the collection bag and a wheeled vac tube.
– Runs on the widely compatible WORX PowerShare battery platform.
Cons:
– The collection bag can fill up quickly with wet leaves, requiring frequent emptying.

Best for: Homeowners seeking a versatile solution to manage leaves, requiring both blowing and efficient vacuuming/mulching, particularly those already invested in the WORX PowerShare system.

Expert Opinion: The WORX WG583 stands out for its integrated design and mulching prowess. It’s a complete system for leaf management, offering convenience and efficiency that makes tackling autumn cleanup much less of a chore.

MAXLANDER Cordless Leaf Blower & Vacuum with Bag, 3-in-1

The MAXLANDER 3-in-1 unit truly surprised me with its thoughtful design and robust performance for its price point. It’s another excellent option for those needing blowing, vacuuming, and mulching in one device. What caught my attention was the special internal fan blade design, engineered to reduce debris entanglement – a common nuisance with other vacuums. The 5-speed brushless motor offers incredible flexibility, allowing me to gently clear dust indoors on lower settings or blast away stubborn wet leaves with the TURBO mode. The 45L large-capacity collection bag with a convenient bottom zipper meant less stopping to empty, and the detachable shoulder strap made carrying it comfortable, even for extended periods.

Key features that stand out:
* 3-in-1 Blower/Vacuum/Mulcher: Versatile for various cleaning tasks, from yard to house.
* Brushless Motor with 5 Speeds: Adapts power from gentle dusting to powerful leaf removal (up to 170MPH / 330CFM).
* Anti-Entanglement Fan Blade Design: Reduces blockages and motor damage.
* 45L Large-Capacity Collection Bag: Durable, with a bottom zipper for easy emptying, and an extra-long shoulder strap.
* Dual 4.0AH Batteries Included: Provides extended runtime (36min+ in higher speeds, up to 240min in low speed) and quick charging (1.5h).

Pros:
– Excellent value with two included high-capacity batteries.
– Smart design features like the anti-entanglement blade.
– Flexible 5-speed control for various tasks.
– Comfortable to use for longer periods thanks to a large bag and shoulder strap.
Cons:
– Mulching power, while effective, isn’t as high-ratio as some premium models.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need a complete 3-in-1 solution with good power, excellent battery life (thanks to two included batteries), and thoughtful design for ease of use.

Expert Opinion: The MAXLANDER delivers impressive versatility and runtime for its price. The inclusion of two batteries is a huge bonus, and its anti-entanglement feature addresses a common pain point, making it a strong contender for everyday yard cleanup.

WORX WG509 12 Amp Trivac, 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower, Mulcher, Vacuum

While our focus is primarily on cordless leaf vacuums, I felt it was important to include the WORX WG509 12 Amp Trivac, as it’s a popular choice for its powerful 3-in-1 functionality. It’s crucial to note that this model is corded electric, meaning it requires an extension cord for operation. Despite this, its 12 Amp motor delivers consistent power, boasting 350 CFM and 210 MPH, making short work of large areas. The 18:1 mulch ratio is incredibly efficient, turning a mountain of leaves into a small pile, and I found the quick-release bag and variable speeds super convenient. It’s surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver, even allowing you to get into narrow spaces under furniture.

Key features that stand out:
* 3-in-1 Design: Blower, mulcher, and vacuum combined.
* Powerful Airflow: 350 CFM and 210 MPH for efficient clearing.
* Highly Efficient 18:1 Mulch Ratio: Drastically reduces debris volume.
* Compact Design: Allows access to narrow spaces.
* Easy to Use: Quick-release bag and variable speeds for different tasks.

Pros:
– Consistent, strong power without battery limitations.
– Superior mulching ratio for maximum volume reduction.
– Lighter than many battery models due to the lack of a heavy battery pack.
– More affordable upfront cost compared to many cordless options.
Cons:
– Requires an extension cord, limiting mobility and posing a tripping hazard.

Best for: Homeowners with smaller to medium-sized yards who need robust 3-in-1 power, don’t mind managing a cord, and prioritize mulching efficiency over complete cordless freedom.

Expert Opinion: The WORX WG509 Trivac is a powerful and efficient tool for leaf management, especially for mulching. Its corded nature makes it less versatile than cordless leaf vacuum options, but for those with access to power and a desire for consistent, high performance, it remains a solid choice.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best cordless leaf vacuum, power is often a top concern. The Greenworks 40V blower clearly leads in raw blowing power with 505 CFM and 185 MPH (in turbo), making it the strongest dedicated blower of the bunch. For sheer air volume and speed, it’s hard to beat, especially for heavy-duty tasks.

However, if you’re looking for true versatility, the WORX WG583 40V and MAXLANDER 3-in-1 are the clear winners, offering blowing, vacuuming, and mulching functions. The WORX WG583 boasts an excellent 12:1 mulch ratio with its 2-stage impeller, while the MAXLANDER offers a thoughtful anti-entanglement design and a generous 45L collection bag. Both are excellent cordless leaf vacuum options for comprehensive yard cleanup.

Battery life and the battery ecosystem are also key considerations. Both Greenworks and WORX WG583 operate on robust 40V platforms, meaning their batteries are interchangeable with a wide range of other tools. This is a huge benefit if you’re building out a collection of yard tools. The MAXLANDER stands out by including two 4.0Ah batteries, providing exceptional runtime right out of the box without needing to buy extra.

Weight and maneuverability vary. The Greenworks 40V is noted for being 40% lighter than gas models, making it comfortable to wield. The WORX WG583 makes vacuuming easier with its wheeled tube and shoulder-strap bag. The MAXLANDER also features a shoulder strap and a well-balanced design, even with its two batteries.

It’s important to reiterate that the WORX WG509 Trivac stands apart as a corded electric model. While it offers fantastic mulching (18:1 ratio) and consistent power without battery concerns, its reliance on an extension cord means it lacks the freedom of a cordless leaf vacuum. For those prioritizing a truly untethered experience, the Greenworks, WORX WG583, and MAXLANDER are the direct cordless leaf vacuum contenders.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best cordless leaf vacuum really boils down to your specific needs and yard size.

• If raw blowing power and long-term durability are your top priorities, and you primarily need to move large volumes of debris, the Greenworks 40V (230 MPH / 505 CFM) Cordless Brushless Blower is an outstanding choice. It’s a dedicated blower that excels at its job.

• For those who want a complete 3-in-1 solution with excellent mulching efficiency and are perhaps already using other WORX PowerShare tools, the WORX WG583 40V Cordless Leaf Blower, 3 in 1 is your go-to. It offers great versatility for comprehensive leaf management.

• If you’re seeking great value with strong 3-in-1 functionality, extended runtime thanks to two included batteries, and thoughtful anti-clog design, the MAXLANDER Cordless Leaf Blower & Vacuum with Bag, 3-in-1 is a surprisingly capable and budget-friendly option.

• And finally, if ultimate mulching power and consistent, corded performance are more important than cordless freedom for your smaller yard, the WORX WG509 12 Amp Trivac, 3 in 1 Electric Leaf Blower is a very efficient machine, despite being outside the “cordless” category.

Ultimately, each of these models offers unique benefits. Consider your yard, your budget, and whether you prioritize blowing, vacuuming, mulching, or a combination, to find your perfect cordless leaf vacuum (or powerful corded alternative!).

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What are the main advantages of a cordless leaf vacuum over a gas or corded electric one?
A1: The biggest advantage of a cordless leaf vacuum is freedom of movement. You’re not restricted by the length of an extension cord or the need for fuel. They’re typically quieter, lighter, and produce zero emissions during operation, making them more environmentally friendly and pleasant to use for routine yard cleanup.

Q2: How long does the battery typically last on a cordless leaf vacuum?
A2: Battery life varies significantly depending on the voltage (e.g., 20V, 40V), amp-hours (Ah) of the battery, and the power setting you’re using. On high or turbo modes, you might get 15-30 minutes of continuous use. On lower settings, some models can last 45-60 minutes or even longer. Many cordless leaf vacuum models, like the MAXLANDER reviewed, come with two batteries to extend your working time.

Q3: Can a cordless leaf vacuum really handle wet leaves?
A3: Most powerful cordless leaf vacuum models can handle moderately wet leaves, especially when using a turbo boost function. However, very heavy, matted, or soaked leaves can be challenging for any leaf vacuum (cordless or otherwise) to clear efficiently and can clog the vacuum or mulching impeller. It’s usually best to tackle leaves when they are as dry as possible.

Q4: What’s the difference between CFM and MPH, and which is more important for a cordless leaf vacuum?
A4: CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures the volume of air moved, indicating how much area you can clear at once. MPH (Miles Per Hour) measures the speed of the air, indicating how forcefully it can dislodge stubborn or wet debris. Both are important, but for a cordless leaf vacuum, a higher CFM is generally better for moving large piles, while a good MPH helps with heavier, stuck-on leaves. Many good models offer a balance of both.

Q5: Is a 3-in-1 cordless leaf vacuum worth it, or should I get separate tools?
A5: A 3-in-1 cordless leaf vacuum (blower, vacuum, mulcher) is excellent for convenience and saving storage space. It’s a great choice for most homeowners who want to efficiently manage leaves. If you only need to blow leaves, a dedicated blower like the Greenworks might offer more raw power. If you have extremely large areas and constantly need to vacuum huge volumes, sometimes a dedicated vacuum with a larger capacity or higher mulching ratio might be slightly more efficient, but for most residential yards, the 3-in-1 offers fantastic versatility.

Q6: How much maintenance does a cordless leaf vacuum require?
A6: Cordless leaf vacuums generally require minimal maintenance. Regularly clean out any debris from the impeller, tubes, and collection bag. Check the battery contacts and keep batteries charged and stored in a cool, dry place. For mulching units, occasionally inspect the mulching blades for wear or damage. That’s usually it!

Q7: Are cordless leaf vacuums noisy?
A7: Compared to gas-powered blowers, cordless leaf vacuums are significantly quieter. While they still produce noise (especially on high settings or when mulching), it’s typically within a more tolerable range, often below 70-80 dB, reducing neighborhood disturbance and making ear protection less critically necessary (though still recommended for prolonged use).