How to choose a garden branch shredder. How to choose a garden shredder? Universal garden shredders

- an excellent solution to the problem of recycling leaves, branches and other plant debris. If you spend a lot of time in your garden at the dacha or at a country house, then you have probably encountered it more than once.

Naturally, choosing a specific model is not an easy task. There are a huge number of different shredders on the market, which are designed for different volumes, types and operating conditions.

In the next section of this article, we will talk about all the important technical characteristics of garden shredders, and then present to your attention a dozen interesting models that can be purchased from our catalog stores.

Key Features You Should Pay Attention to

Engine

Like many other types of garden tools, shredders are equipped with gasoline or electric engines.

Electric shredders are lighter and more compact. In addition, they require minimal maintenance. The only limitation is the connection to the mains and the need to use long power cables. Typically, electric models are ideal for use in the country.

Gasoline shredders are more intended for service and environmental professionals. They are autonomous, but more bulky and require careful care.

Power

Power characterizes the performance of a particular shredder model and its overall operating efficiency.

The more power, the better the shredder will cope with larger debris - not only leaves and small branches, but also small branches and even boards.

For use in summer cottages or near a country house, a chopper with a power of 2 to 3 kW will be sufficient. If you are going to deal with larger debris than leaves, grass and branches, then you can think about purchasing a model with a higher power - up to 4 kW. Even more powerful shredders are designed for professionals.

Power supply

Most conventional electric garden shredders are connected to a regular single-phase power supply. Only powerful models designed for long-term work with large volumes of waste use a three-phase high voltage network.

Maximum branch thickness

One of the main parameters of any shredder. It indicates which branches can be processed without problems without fear of damaging the knives, cutter or other machine parts. If you are buying a chopper for a summer house, then this parameter should be approximately 35-40 mm.

It is worth noting that expensive, powerful models that can also process boards usually report this in a separate line on the packaging and in the technical data sheet.

cutting tool

Most of the models on sale now use knives located on a very quickly rotating disk to shred garbage. They are great for small debris like leaves, grass and small branches.

Milling shredders are more powerful and more expensive - they are designed to work even with large branches. At the same time, small-sized and soft waste in such shredders is not disposed of as efficiently.

Speed

The higher the rotation speed of the chopper's knives or cutter, the faster it will cope with its task. In this case, you need to take into account the fact that the knives rotate orders of magnitude faster - usually several thousand revolutions per minute.

Models with a cutter operate at low speeds (up to 100 per minute), which allows them to accurately and efficiently crush and process solid waste.

Container

Most likely, you will want the shredded waste to go straight into the designated container. This container can be purchased separately, but it would be even better to choose a model that comes with it.

Before purchasing a shredder, it is best to keep in mind that garden shredders are designedfor recycling branches, thick tops (such as corn, sunflower). It will not be possible to chop large volumes of grass using a shredder; it will wrap around the knives and clog the unit. And the soil from the roots of plants dulls knives.Therefore, you should not choose a shredder only for grass disposal - The grass can be easily chopped with a lawn mower, and when folded in a heap, it can be easily chopped with a trimmer and line.

When choosing a shredder, study its passport data:

Shredder power and maximum diameter of plants processed by it.
Operating mode (continuous or periodic).
Availability of spare parts (cutting tools, they fail first).

It is useful to consider:

The larger container for crushed waste- all the better. Optimally - 50 liters or more.
For safety reasons, all garden shredders are equipped with pushers. They definitely need to be used.
Shredders use various grinding systems: turbine roller, in the form of a gear, cutter, etc. Shredders with a knife system are more convenient to maintain: the knives can be removed, sharpened (recommended at a service center), replaced, or turned over with a sharp edge.
Maximum diameter of processed branches, indicated in the technical characteristics of shredders, as a rule, refers to soft types of wood: linden, aspen, bird cherry. If you plan to use a shredder for branches of all garden plants, to prolong the performance of the device, this value must be reduced by 10-20 mm and not exceeded when loading plant waste.

Much depends on where this unit will be used. If we are talking about a comfortable house with a small plot and the need to shred a modest amount of cut vegetation, then an electric shredder will be the best option. And if you need to clear an area of old branches that is still waiting to be connected to electricity, you cannot do without a good gasoline garden shredder. It is better to choose a specific model based on brand image and functionality.

In your dacha and garden plots, you periodically have to do some cleaning - remove leaves, tops, stems, trim shrubs and trees. Everything that is softer and smaller goes to the compost heap, but it rots there for a long time - several years. Larger branches-stems have to be disposed of using more radical methods - transported somewhere or burned. In general, this is a regular headache. And a garden shredder can help solve it. It grinds branches and plant waste into a fine fraction, which rots faster or can be used as mulch.

Purpose and capabilities

The purpose of a garden shredder is to crush branches and plant waste into small pieces. The size of the “pieces” is different for each brand. Moreover, it may change between different models of the same manufacturer. Conventionally, garden shredders can be divided into three categories:

When choosing, you need to focus on what kind of waste you have more. If you have a large part of your plot occupied by a vegetable garden and shrubs, your choice is a grass shredder. Their knives are designed so that they do not clog when processing dry or “fresh” plant components. If the area is reserved for a garden, you need a branch chopper. When choosing, pay attention to the maximum diameter of the waste being processed. Well, if you have both a vegetable garden and a garden, you need a “station wagon” that can handle both tough branches and grass.

A garden shredder is a housing in which the motor and shredding system are hidden. A funnel for feeding processed raw materials is attached to the top of the body. It can be wider or narrower, depending on the purpose. A wide funnel is more convenient for feeding grass residues and leaves, and a narrow one for branches.

Shredded waste pours out from below - from a special hole. There are units with a plastic tank, and others with a soft bag. Plastic is convenient to use, but it increases the size and weight of the unit. A soft container for recycled materials is a bag. It takes up almost no space and does not add bulk, but it is not so convenient to use. There is a third option - without a container at all. In this case, you can choose according to your taste or use both types - whichever is more convenient.

Criterias of choice

Choosing any technology is a responsible and difficult matter. There are many criteria to consider. When choosing garden shredders, it is necessary to consider not only technical parameters, but also such “subjective” indicators as ease of transportation. The device will have to be moved around the site - to the place where waste accumulates, rolled up/rolled out of the shed for storage, so the location of the handles for transportation and the size of the wheels are of considerable importance.

Technical specifications

The initial selection stage is the selection of technical parameters. The selection of the model depends on the purpose of the unit and the tasks it must solve. If branches will predominate, you need one type of unit; if there is grass and foliage, you need a completely different one.

Engine type and power

A garden shredder for branches and grass can have an electric or gasoline engine. Devices with an electric motor weigh less, are quieter, and have no emissions. But their mobility is limited by the length of the cord and the presence of connection points. There is still the option of using an extension/carrying cable. The power of electric garden shredders is 2-5 kW. Usually these are household models with not the highest price tag.

A garden shredder with a gasoline engine can move anywhere, but it is heavier, and the structure itself is more massive, since the engine is larger. To its mass you need to add the mass of the fuel being poured, so you get the weight of the unit ready for operation. But the engines are more powerful. These models are much more expensive - prices start at $750, but they are more productive and can be used by enterprises.

Gasoline garden shredder - more serious and expensive equipment

In addition to the type of engine, you need to pay attention to its power. It is necessary to ensure that the declared capabilities (maximum diameter of processed branches) are confirmed by the engine power. The average is 4-6 hp.

According to reviews, a useful feature is the ability to reverse. The reverse stroke allows you to correct an unsuccessful branch that is blocking the shaft. This makes the work faster and easier, but the cost of such units is slightly higher.

Garden shredder: cutting part type

The productivity and size of processed branches depend on the type of cutting part. It comes in three types:

With two or more knives. The simplest models are equipped with two knives that stand in a horizontal plane. Such models grind mainly grass and small branches - up to 2.0-2.5 cm in diameter. More complex ones are equipped with four or six knives and they can stand in a vertical or horizontal plane. These people are already coping with more serious tasks.
Models with knives are the simplest and most inexpensive
With worm type crusher. In these models, the cutting part is similar to the screw that is in a meat grinder. Only it is installed mainly vertically and has fewer turns. A garden shredder with a cutting part of this type works faster and copes well with dry and freshly cut branches of larger diameter (about 4 cm). It is also good when working with grassy residues, but the grass can stick to the screw or wrap around it, so the knives have to be cleaned periodically. Garden shredders of this type are universal. Examples of popular models are Bosch AXT Rapid 2200.
Cylindrical cutting unit with a large number of knives. Also called a “multi-blade cutter”. This is a unique development of Bocsh and has not yet been found in others. Universal garden shredders are equipped with it, so if you need such a model, you will have to choose between this cutter and a worm cutter. Knives of this type cope with fresh or dry branches and plant debris. Only vines can be wound, and even then only if the knives are dull. These knives are found on the BOSCH AXT 25 TC.
Cutting shaft. A more powerful crushing unit allows you to grind even thick branches and twigs. They are equipped with garden shredders for branches. The maximum size of processed branches is 5-8 cm. This is about household models, because semi-industrial and industrial ones can handle thicker ones. The problem is that their dimensions and cost are appropriate.

The choice of cutting unit type is determined by the tasks for which you need the unit. Pay special attention to this so you don’t regret the purchase later.

Ease of use

There are many parameters that also need to be taken into account when choosing a soda grinder. They only seem insignificant, but they affect how comfortable you will be at work. And this is important. Here's what we pay attention to:

All these “minor” details affect the work, and this is important since you usually have to spend hours reworking. Being in an awkward position or transporting the unit bent over will not be work but torture.

Models and reviews

The choice based on technical parameters is nothing compared to the choice of the manufacturer. There are two guidelines in this matter: brand awareness and owner reviews.

Famous manufacturers

A brand is good, but equipment from well-known brands costs a lot. If this doesn't scare you, everything is simpler. Choose from brands. Garden waste shredders are produced by the following well-known companies:

Bosch
Viking
AL-KO
Wolf Garten

You can buy any unit from these manufacturers, just carefully read for what purpose it is intended - more for branches or grass. For example (according to owner reviews):

The Bosch AXT 25 D garden shredder copes well with dry branches, but it takes a long time to deal with freshly cut branches.
The Bosch AXT 25 TC handles large branches well with factory settings. In order for it to properly deal with small branches and vines, you need to tighten the adjustment all the way (this model has it).
The Bosch AXT Rapid 2000 has excellent reviews - it cuts branches, but is not very friendly with grass. The spruce branches, bushes, even young trees passed well.
Bosch ATX 18-35. Power 1800 W. It has an auger like in a meat grinder, and there is another knife next to it. It chops coarsely, but copes well even with branches 45 mm in diameter.

But if you choose one that suits your needs, they all have excellent reviews. Same as Vikinga (150, 250, 350). Vikings are generally recognized as omnivores, since they thresh everything (cones, spruce branches (stale), corn, sunflowers, old flower stems, raspberry and blackberry trimmings, stale leaves and grass). But they are a bit tall, especially the 250 and 350 models.

Models of unknown brands

Among the less famous and cheaper ones, the following performed well:

IKRA MOGATEC EGN 2500. Chops everything very quickly, the fraction is small. But, until the knives become dull. You can’t buy new ones in regular stores, only in service centers.
MacAllister 2800 W. He even processed the remains of boards, the chips are large - 2-3 cm. He cuts dried branches faster, fresh ones - slower, some of them remain crumpled into short sausages. The size of the branches is up to 4 cm. During operation, the noise level is high - 99 dB.
Stiga Bio Quiet 2100. Works quietly, grinds into pieces 2 centimeters long, if a branch hits horizontally, longer pieces pop out. The kit comes with a bag, but there is not even anything to hang it on, they substituted a box. So that when working on the lower grid, the processed material would accumulate on it, it had to be cut off with pruning shears. In general, the design is “copied” from the Bosch 25 D. The conclusion based on the results of the work is that if you need to grind the tops, look for another machine. This one is for branches.
Garden shredder Skill. It coped with willow branches up to 3.5 cm in size with a bang. With dry currant branches, things went worse - they are very branchy. When working with dry branches, productivity decreases.
Petrol branch shredder Earthquake 9060300. Has two receiving hoppers - for branches and a large one for leaves. I worked 35 hours during the season. Disadvantages: it’s big and heavy, it’s still okay to roll it, but loading it into a car is problematic, it rattles a lot, so you need glasses and headphones. Three types of knives - two discs. The first with straight lines, the second with triangular and L-shaped ones.
PATRIOT. So far I have worked for 3 days (almost full daylight hours). Normally cuts branches and young trees. It tightens the branches itself, but the force is not too great.
Sterwins 2500. We made about 200 buckets of mulch during the season. We processed raspberries, cherries, shadberry, plums, apple trees, turf, willow, bladderwort, and birch. During continuous operation, thermal protection is triggered every 15-0 minutes. After cooling, you can work again.

There are probably other garden shredders that are not too expensive and work well, but before purchasing them, carefully read as many reviews as possible. Take into account only those that are given with their own photos and details that cannot be caught from the description.

All gardeners are well aware that gardening involves the appearance of garden waste. And the larger the garden, the longer it will take to clean up garden branches, twigs and other debris. For those who want to have less plant debris on their site, a garden shredder was invented. This universal shredder, as practice shows, can reduce the volume of organic waste in a garden plot by 5-10 times.

Since today the market for gardeners offers a wide range of shredders with different technical characteristics, it makes sense to review the garden shredders that are among the leaders.

The best models of grass and branch shredders

Over the past 5 years, the number of garden shredder manufacturers has increased, and so have the options for grass and tree shredders.

According to the characteristics of the cutting special element, they are distinguished:

Knife devices. They cut waste with knife-like blades. They manage to cope with both thin branches, dry leaves, and armfuls of grass. But knives are afraid of large objects, because... they can dull them easily. If this happens, the cutting quality will deteriorate significantly.
Milling type devices. Their design includes gears. They are more durable and stronger than knives. Milling shredders can be used to shred branches with a diameter of 4-5 cm. These devices should not be used to process soft waste, as they can become clogged in the rotating element. There are a number of milling models that have a reverse function, as well as a function for adjusting the degree of crushing of debris.

An analysis of sales statistics indicates that active demand in recent years has been observed specifically for knife devices (they are purchased by gardeners in 85% of cases). Demand for milling devices is lower (15% of consumers buy them). Therefore, we will compile a rating of the best devices based on the opinions of independent experts.

First place – Ikra Mogatec EGN-2500

This model has become a leader due to the optimal ratio of quality and cost. Power - 2.5 kW. Shreds tree branches, shrubs and other organic garden debris at a speed of 4050 rpm.

The model has a horizontal disk system, a pair of blades, and a special device responsible for the safe switching mode. The organic waste container of this shredder can hold 50 kg of waste. Such milling grinders are sold today for an average of 11,000 rubles.

Bosch AXT RAPID-2000 – second place

This compact German garden waste shredder features a 2000 W power unit. The throughput is 80 kg per hour. This grass, leaves and branches shredder weighs 11.5 kg. Thanks to its light weight, the user can easily carry it around the site.

Bosch AXT RAPID-2000 became one of the leaders due to the fact that the mechanical elements of the chopper are made of carbide steel. Gardeners note a low noise level and very rapid fragmentation of branches.

Bison ZIE44-2800 – third place in the ranking

This Russian garden shredder is distinguished by its rich equipment, affordable price and low noise level. The device is able to cope perfectly with tree branches with a diameter of 4.4 cm.

Bison ZIE44-2800 makes it possible to adjust the grinding level.

Electric shredders

Electric shredders today differ from each other in terms of performance, waste container capacity and power. Below we look at the best models:

Rating of gasoline shredders

For those gardeners who trust gasoline shredders, the review below of the three best gasoline shredders will be useful. So, the leaders included:

Top garbage shredders

The three best shredders for processing garden waste include the following models:

Universal garden shredders

The market for tools and garden equipment offers few universal garden shredders. The TOP 3 best shredders for the garden include:

Garden shredders for walk-behind tractor

Today, not only independent shredder devices are in demand, but also garden shredders, which are an attachment to a walk-behind tractor.
They come in knife, milling, and universal types. Today you can find a large number of homemade options. But we will discuss factory fittings.

So, the TOP 3 best options include:

Branch chopper "Premium" without a wood splitter. It comes with a pulley and belt. The shaft rotates using a belt. The chopper is made of steel. The cutting mechanism is represented by a convenient knife system. Its weight is 84 kg. The shredder can chop branches with a cross-section of up to 50 mm.
Shredder of tree branches with wood splitter (TYPE-2) Premium. The unit is made of steel and is capable of shredding branches with a cross-sectional thickness of 50 mm. The cutting mechanism is represented by a convenient knife system.
Shredder of wood branches Volodar (for walk-behind tractor RM-90D). The productivity of this device is high - 5 cubic meters per hour. This attachment to the walk-behind tractor has 6 knives, each 8 mm thick.

Garden vacuum cleaners with shredder

Garden vacuum cleaners with a shredder are used to maintain cleanliness and order not only in the garden, but also within the surrounding areas. They are manual and wheeled. Since wheeled vacuum cleaners are the most convenient, let’s analyze the three best options:

How to choose a garden shredder

It is important to choose the right garden shredder. When choosing a unit for cleaning your garden area, you need to look carefully at:

Shredder power and its capabilities for processing garden waste. It should be understood that the capabilities of the shredder will depend on the power of the power drive.
Decide on the type of unit. Conventionally, they are divided into household, semi-professional and professional. Typically, household and professional options are chosen for garden plots. Their power ranges from 1 to 3 kW. Household options can chop branches up to 25mm thick. Their weight is usually no more than 20 kg. Semi-professionals weigh 40-50 kg. They are able to cope with branches with a cross-section of up to 40 mm. Professional options usually have a three-phase electric motor and can cope with branches with a diameter of 60-80 mm.
Convenience of the receiving hopper. It can be positioned vertically or at an angle. If you choose a knife option, you should make sure that the kit includes a garden waste pusher, since manually pushing organic garden waste is dangerous. Some mid-level models have several waste bins - each focused on a different type of waste.
Presence of reverse. This option avoids problems with the chopper jamming. The reverse will be able, when feeding, for example, a branch that is too thick, to pause the operation of the device so that the user can quickly get it out.
Protection function. This option is important for electric models. It guarantees protection against accidental start.
If you decide to buy a gasoline garden shredder, you should pay attention to the level of noise produced by the device.
Many “advanced” models are characterized by low levels of sound emissions. But such options, unfortunately, are usually not cheap.

DIY garden shredders

Many gardeners make their own garden shredders. For those who are well versed in technology, this is not difficult. We invite you to take a look at such homemade devices.

Video:

Let's sum it up

The proposed material talked about the best electric and gasoline garden shredders. The article also talked about garden shredders for walk-behind tractors and the rules for choosing a shredder. Follow the information above and choose the best option for your garden plot.

Updated: 04/01/2019 11:47:48

Expert: Lev Kaufman

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

To maintain order in your summer cottage on your own, you need a branch chopper. The unit will grind roots, flower stems, vines, twigs and trunks of bushes, which will serve as a subsequent good fertilizer. To process large volumes of branches in places where many trees have been cut down, professional models are used. They reduce the size of waste, which simplifies the collection and transportation of waste. In order to choose the right garden equipment, we have prepared a rating of the best branch shredders. A review of product characteristics and customer reviews will narrow your search and suggest garden equipment for specific tasks.

How to choose a garden shredder

Type of food. There are electric and gasoline models. The former are easy to maintain and quieter, but depend on the length of the wire. The latter are more powerful and autonomous, but weigh more and are louder.
Power. In electric models it is written in kW, and in gasoline models in horsepower. The indicator varies from 1.5 to 4 kW, or 3-8 hp. respectively. The thickness of the branches to be broken and the speed of work depend on the selected value.
Knife system. It can be disk or milling. Circular knives are cheaper, but they can only handle thin stems of flowers, leaves, and shrubs. They can always be removed and sharpened. The router will cut through twigs and branches up to 8 cm in diameter, but replacing it will cost more. There are choppers with a combined system that combines several types of knives.
Weight. Garden equipment weighs from 10 to 100 kg, which affects the ease of movement around the site and the ability to transport it to a remote location.
Equipment class. Shredders are divided into household, semi-professional and professional. The class determines the duration of continuous work and the ability to break.

Rating of the best wood chippers

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
The best electric wood chippers	1		RUB 75,805
	2		RUB 28,729
	3		20,540 ₽
	4		18,100 RUR
	5		18,990 RUR
	6		15,800 RUR
	7		8 670 ₽
	8		6,550 RUR
	9		6,990 ₽
The best petrol wood chippers	1		80 900 ₽
	2		40 200 ₽
	3		RUB 72,920
	4		61,990 RUR

The best electric wood chippers

Electric shredders are lighter than fuel units, operate more quietly and do not emit harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Their indisputable advantage is the lack of maintenance. But in terms of power, they are inferior to gasoline ones and are limited in range by the length of the network cable. Models with 380 V power supply are used permanently in forest processing enterprises. 220 V units have proven themselves excellent on the farm and in dachas.

The first place in the ranking is occupied by goods from Austria. The chopper has a power of 3 kW and reaches speeds of up to 2800 per minute. The model provides for the separation of the upper part of the body into two loading compartments. A funnel-like intake for bulk materials is formed at the top, and a tray for long branches opens below. This simplifies the work, making loading more convenient. There is a double knife system inside, and the maximum diameter of branches that can be broken is 50 mm. The chopper is compact in size - the height is 137 cm, so it is convenient to work with it, and finding storage space is not difficult.

We noted the shredder in the rating as the most powerful among semi-professional models. It is suitable for a large garden plot with many trees. A double knife system with a powerful gear and a second row of discs ensures a long service life of the equipment and fine cutting of wood. Owners in reviews note the safety of using the shredder thanks to the One Click switch, which stops the engine with one touch.

Advantages

two loading holes;
high power;
grinds branches with a diameter of 50 mm;
Includes a set of tools for disassembling and cleaning knives;
combined knife system.

Flaws

high price;
the plastic case quickly loses its appearance when scratched by branches;
there is no grass collector at the exit (throws the ground garbage into a heap);
weighs 53 kg - moving on soft surfaces (grass, soil) is difficult.

In second place in the ranking is a product from the German company Bosch. The chopper has a power of 2500 W and copes with branches with a diameter of 4.5 cm. The model moves around the site on two wheels. The operator's side features a D-shaped handle and control panel. Loading of branches and leaves is carried out vertically, for which a large funnel is placed at the top. To prevent debris from flying around, a collection box is integrated at the bottom. Thanks to this, the workplace is always clean and it is easier to remove waste material, which owners like in reviews.

Our experts included the shredder in the rating of the best due to its turbocharged system. 8 knives are located parallel to each other, and their ends are connected by two rings. This design ensures automatic tightening of branches, which increases operational safety. This also contributes to increased productivity - in an hour the chopper passes through up to 230 kg of branches. This is the best option for grinding material when clearing land for building a private house.

Advantages

convenient control panel from the operator's side;
wide loading funnel;
turbine grinding system;
the hopper is replaceable - if it breaks down, you can buy a spare part;
own feeding system.

Flaws

protection in the form of a limit switch does not always work;
high price;
plastic case;
it simply crushes grass and leaves, does not crush them like a lawn mower;
The inner plug is too deep.

Third place in the ranking is given to another German product, but from the manufacturer Wolf-Garten. Direct production of the wood chipper is carried out in China at the brand’s production facilities. The unit has a power of 2.8 kW and is suitable for breaking trunks 4.5 cm thick, reducing their size by 10 times. The cutting and feeding mechanism is a double knife made of hard steel. The blades are sharpened on both sides, which increases productivity. Under the engine compartment there is a spacious grass catcher made of impact-resistant plastic. It has its own handle, making it convenient to remove and carry waste.

Our experts liked the shredder's high U-shaped frame. Thanks to this design, even tall users will find it convenient to load branches without tilting. The control panel of the shredder is also raised to waist level, which simplifies access to the keys and increases safety of operation (it takes less time to detect and press the engine brake, unlike the leader in the rating, which has buttons at the bottom).

Advantages

the motor has overload protection;
there is an emergency engine stop mechanism;
develops up to 2850 rpm;
rigid waste bin, volume 45 liters.

Flaws

loud operation with noise 104 dB;
with a weight of 35 kg and small wheels, moving on soft ground is difficult;
the disc has only two knives;
small funnel on top.

The fourth place in the rating is given to the Japanese model, which has a triple knife inside on a drum. Owners in reviews share that it is easy to sharpen - the process can be done at home with a regular file. To ensure that the branches fit into it correctly, there is an additional aluminum clamping device. The motor power of 2.5 kW allows you to grind trunks 45 mm thick. The receiving hole will not allow you to plant larger branches. To receive garbage, a rigid grass collector with a volume of 67 liters is provided, which exceeds the performance of the above-described models.

According to our experts, the shredder deserves a place in the ranking for several reasons. It has wide wheels with rubber tread, which prevents it from sinking on soft ground and makes transportation easier. The cable connection plug is located under the hopper and handle, so swinging branches will not accidentally touch the cable. If a lot of leaves get into the drum and it jams, then a reverse is provided for easy removal of the blockage.

Advantages

a convenient container for dumping the contents into a compost pit;
there is an engine block;
the output is small barrels from branches - 1 cm in length;
if the operator forgot to install the container, the chopper will warn about this with a flashing indicator.

Flaws

container latches close tightly - need to be lubricated;
unstable design - it wobbles when inserting branches, 2 m long (you have to hold it with your hands);
clogged with leaves and grass.

Fifth place in the ranking belongs to another German model. The chopper has a 2.8 kW motor and belongs to the semi-professional class. The maximum diameter of the branches to be ground is 42 mm. The unit is equipped with a tubular frame and powerful wheels for confident transportation around the garden. The receiving funnel is finished with impact-resistant plastic and has a handle cut out for transportation. The crushed materials are collected in a grass catcher with a capacity of 48 liters. It has its own handle, convenient for removing the container. Buyers in reviews praise the presence of a reverse, which helps to quickly clear the channel in case of blockage.

We included the chopper in the rating due to the presence of a milling knife. Thanks to the powerful cutting gear, the device will last a long time. The advantage of this technology is the confident holding of branches 150 cm long - the machine clamps the end and itself pulls it inward, which increases safety for the user.

Advantages

quiet operation;
attractive price;
compact dimensions, convenient for storage;
simple control panel;
container with handle.

Flaws

supplied without power cord;
does not crush small pine cones;
the fraction size is 4 cm - it doesn’t work out smaller.

This ranking belongs to a compact wood chipper from the Bosch brand. The name of the Rapid model indicates the use of a special knife with increased strength in the system. Carbon steel does not wrinkle when colliding with hard knots and retains its sharpness for a long time. Owners praise the product in reviews for having such a thick blued steel knife that is easy to sharpen. The element is so durable that its resource will last for 10 years. The chopper is equipped with a 2 kW motor and chops branches with a diameter of 35 mm. The design provides for the placement of textile bags for collecting waste under the outlet. Since the shredder does not have a device for tightening branches, a pusher is included in the kit to protect the operator’s hands.

According to experts, the chopper deserves a place in the ranking due to its weight of 11.5 kg. This is the best option for a woman or a very elderly person to easily remove tops from the garden after the season. The unit easily chops not only dry shoots, but also juicy stems of zucchini, cucumbers, and cabbage leaves.

Advantages

the manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty;
knives rotate at a speed of 3650 rpm;
low electricity consumption;
light weight - 11.5 kg;
automatic stop when driving knives.

Flaws

branch diameter is limited to 35 mm;
the structure does not stand well when planting tall shrubs;
does not like grass and leaves - it quickly becomes clogged and jams.

In seventh place in the ranking is a shredder from a domestic manufacturer. This is a frame structure with four support points and a rigid grass catcher. Thanks to an electric motor with a power of 2.5 kW, it will be possible to grind branches 4 cm thick. There is a circular knife with double-sided sharpening inside. This system is not capable of pulling branches, so a pusher handle is attached to the device to feed grass and small shrubs to the cutting elements. The container holds 50 liters of crushed material at once.

Our experts included the shredder in the rating due to its low price for a semi-professional model, which is almost 5 times more affordable than European products. The garden shredder is distinguished by its light weight - 14 kg, which will be appreciated by housewives who care for the garden. The design also provides additional guides in the funnel, so long branches do not dangle to the sides, but are purposefully fed to the knives.

Advantages

product warranty 5 years;
rotation speed 4050 rpm;
works much quieter than competitors - 95 dB;
rubberized start key;
additional guides in the funnel.

Flaws

the emergency stop button is hidden deep - it is difficult to quickly reach it;
the circular blade becomes dull quickly;
passes up to 100 kg of branches per hour;
clogged with fresh tops.

Eighth place in the ranking is occupied by an American brand, but it has been produced in China for a long time. The shredder is manufactured with an S-shaped tubular frame, at the top of which there is a funnel and a handle for transportation. The electric motor has a power of 2.4 kW and, according to the specifications, the device is designed for branches with a diameter of 4 cm. But buyers in the reviews warn that if you frequently grind such a thickness, the shredder quickly heats up and the gearbox bearing may deteriorate. The optimal working values are 2-3 cm. There is a disk system inside, so the chopper is equipped with a pusher. When the equipment is not in use, it can be attached to a special clip on the frame so as not to be lost.

We have included the product in the rating as one of the most affordable. But since it belongs to the household class, the shredder is only suitable for working on weekends in your dacha. This is an excellent choice for maintaining a flower or vegetable greenhouse.

Advantages

pusher included;
wheels with high tread;
there is a mount on the frame for a pusher when it is not needed;
weight 14 kg.

Flaws

heats up quickly - you need to give it time to cool down;
at the outlet the channel is narrowed, so it often gets clogged;
It will “chew” trunks 4 cm thick, but it is better to grind branches with a cross-section of up to 2-3 cm.

In ninth place in the ranking is another domestic household-grade shredder. Assembling the model in China ensures an affordable price. The garden unit has a power of 2.5 kW and can handle branches 4 cm thick. But the instructions warn that this diameter only applies to freshly cut wood. The model has a convenient funnel and an auxiliary pusher. The disc knives rotate at a speed of 4000 rpm. Owners in the reviews note that it will not be possible to start the engine by accident; this will require simultaneous pressing of two buttons.

Although this is a simple household shredder, it made the list for several reasons. The equipment has the lowest weight in the category - 11 kg. The device can be used both at home and when transporting it in the trunk to relatives. This is a good alternative to fires when cleaning the garden in the fall or cleaning up the vegetable garden. The model also has the narrowest distance between the wheels, which simplifies transportation along garden paths with a width of 40 cm.

Advantages

motor overload protection;
attractive price;
there is a lock against accidental launch;
The electric motor winding is covered with double insulation.

Flaws

The kit does not include a grass catcher;
unstable design when loading long branches;
intended only for fresh shoots.

The best petrol wood chippers

Gasoline shredders are much more powerful than their electric “brothers,” which expands the possibilities for their use time and the thickness of the branches they break. This also allows them to be transported and used in any area, regardless of the availability of power. This is beneficial when clearing areas for construction or removing debris after felling trees in a residential area. But they are louder and emit smoke into the atmosphere. Gasoline units also require maintenance in the form of oil changes. They weigh more, and to transport the equipment you may need a walk-behind tractor or a car.

We gave the first place in the rating to an American professional-class shredder. The device is made entirely of metal and is equipped with a 2.5 liter gasoline engine. The power unit has a four-stroke operating circuit and is easy to maintain. Owners in reviews share that they use the branch chopper even in winter, but they just need to fill in the appropriate oil designed for negative temperatures (5W30). The fuel tank holds 3.8 liters and consumes about 1.7 liters per hour. Garden equipment is equipped with a large hopper that can easily hold even long logs of 2 m.

According to our experts, the shredder deserves first place in the ranking due to its increased power of 7.5 hp. This allows it to cope with branches up to 75 mm thick, and customers in reviews report that it “chews” even 80 mm in diameter. Another advantage of the model is its operation for 9 hours without stopping, without causing harm to the internal combustion engine and equipment.

Advantages

container 90 liters;
wide loading funnel;
a four-stroke engine does not require mixing fuel with oil;
assembled directly in the USA.

Flaws

weight 75 kg is heavy for manual transportation;
high price;
no instructions in Russian;
You can feel a strong kick in your hand when cutting short branches over 100 cm.

Second place in the ranking is occupied by a domestic gasoline shredder, which costs half as much as an American one, but its price still remains high. The unit is made in a vertical housing and is entirely constructed of metal. The structure weighs 72 kg, but the chopper is stable, and large branches will not damage the device. Torque is transmitted to the cutter by a 2.0 liter four-stroke engine. The fuel system is equipped with a 3.1 liter tank, which is enough for almost 3 hours of operation. The shredder has wide wheels with tractor tread for easy transportation around the garden. The maximum cross-section of the branches to be ground is 50 mm.

Experts included the product in the rating due to two receiving holes, which increase ease of use. The upper hopper has a large diameter, so it’s quite easy to fill in leaves and twigs, you can do it directly from the bucket. For thick branches there is a pipe with rubber bumpers. It is located at the bottom of the device, so you do not need to raise your arms high.

Advantages

comfortable starting using an electric starter;
all metal body;
large 85 l receiving container;
develops revolutions up to 3600 per minute.

Flaws

weighs 72 kg;
high price;
Structurally not suitable for transportation by car or walk-behind tractor as a trailer.

Third place in the rating was awarded to the Austrian model with a 4.5 hp engine. The chopper is capable of crushing branches with a diameter of 45 mm. The product has an L-shaped frame and a vertical loading hopper. This ensures excellent stability during operation. The Multi-Cut knife system rotates the blades at 3000 rpm. The unit weighs 45 kg, which is much lighter than its competitors. But its wheels are thinner and it is more difficult to roll garden equipment on soft ground. To start the motor, you need to pull the hand crank on the side. This prevents accidental activation, but requires effort at the start. The shredder is not equipped with a receiving container and you need to purchase additional bags.

We added the product to the rating of the best, as the most compact in the category, which is convenient for storage or working in a limited space (for example, in a small yard). The vertical configuration with a height of 140 cm fits easily under stairs or in a shed. In reviews, users praise the model for its fine grinding, 10-30 mm long.

Advantages

2 year manufacturer's warranty;
Austrian assembly;
Multi-Cut 350 knife system;
good stability due to the wide chassis.

Flaws

manual engine start;
high price;
the motor is not covered by anything and is located next to the funnel (branches are falling on it);
no collection container.

The fourth place in the ranking belongs to the American brand. The garden shredder is powered by a four-stroke engine with a power of 6.5 hp. The product belongs to the professional class and cuts branches with a diameter of 75 mm. Compared to European analogues, the price of the shredder is much more affordable. This is explained by the fact that it is equipped with a motor from the Chinese company Lifan. But, judging by the reviews, the power plant is quite durable. The device starts up easily too, but depending on the humidity and air pressure, you have to “play” with the carburetor damper. The model weighs 70 kg and is made of thick iron. The fuel tank holds 3.6 liters of fuel.

The product was included in the rating due to its wide upper funnel, where you can pour armfuls of potato tops, tomatoes, and small branches. This saves a lot of time. Thick logs are fed into a separate channel below. Even with the maximum diameter of the branches, the chopper speed does not drop. This model also has the ability to be attached to a car’s tow bar, making transportation over long distances easier.

Advantages

powerful wheels with inflated air;
four-stroke engine;
branch splitting diameter 75 mm;
thick metal construction;
easy to start.

Flaws

no receiving container;
weighs 70 kg;
loud work;
Chinese-made Lifan gasoline engine.

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.