If you own or manage land you know how important it is to keep it maintained. I’ve experienced first hand how much hard work it takes to remove and dispose of heavy limbs or overgrown bushes – cutting, chopping, carrying, and even burning leftover limbs and debris. Thankfully, technology has come a long way here. A good wood chipper can be a huge help with your gardening and property maintenance. Owning a chipper makes it easy to get the work done any time.
- Editor's Choice:Patriot Products
- Editor's Choice:Earthquake 9060300
- Tazz 18493 K32
- Southland SCS2052
- Yard Machines 208cc
Because there are more models of chippers and shredders on the market than ever before, shopping for the best chipper for your needs can seem overwhelming. Luckily, we have you covered with our top ten best wood chipper reviews and a handy shopping guide to assist you in choosing the best model for your needs.
Selecting the Best Wood Chippers in December, 2021
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1. Patriot Products CSV-2515 : Best Luxury Option for Those New to Wood Chippers
The Patriot Products CSV-2515 14 Amp Electric Wood Chipper is perfectly suited to conquering the largest mountains of leaves and branches of up to 2.5 inches in diameter.
The wood chipper weighs in at just 95 pounds making it a lighter and easier to manage option since it will not tire you out as fast as heavier versions.
An electrical cord powers the Patriot, so you will need to have a nearby power outlet handy.
- Electric powered
- Accommodates branches up to 2.5 inches in diameter
- Makes coin-sized chips
- Includes a standard collection bag
- Expensive but built to last
2. The Tazz 18493 K32 : Best Compact Gas Powered Option
The Tazz 18493 K32 Chipper Shredder is crafted with an easy starting Viper engine. This chipper produces 20 percent more vacuum than leading competitors.
This gas-powered beast can chomp up branches that are up to 3 inches in diameter.
The Tazz is surprisingly compact for its amount of power.
- Gas powered and creates chips and mulch
- Easy start Viper engine
- Extremely compact
- Never go flat wheels
- The wood chipper will require some assembly before use
3. The Earthquake 9060300 : Great Gas Powered Option for Those New to Wood Chippers
The Earthquake 9060300 Chipper Shredder features the patented Viper engine and is gas powered. This version from Earthquake is an updated version that is more eco-friendly than previous models.
It still contains enough power to blast through branches up to 3 inches in diameter.
The Earthquake chipper comes with a debris bag to collect chips, shreds, and mulch.
- More eco-friendly than previous models thanks to a slightly smaller Viper engine
- Breaks down branches up to 3 inches in diameter
- 20:1 waste reduction ratio
- Has a tendency to jam up when too much material is pushed through at a time
4. The Southland SCS2052 : Awesome Gas-Powered Option for Heavy-Duty Jobs
The Southland SCS2052 Chipper Shredder was designed with two steel blades which will result in a 10:1 debris reduction ration.
This Chipper/Shredder safely breaks down branches with a diameter of up to 2.5 inches.
The Southland SCS2052 Chipper Shredder has been created with a 250 cc Briggs and Stratton motor which offers precise results from chips to shreds to mulch.
- Briggs and Stratton 250 cc engine with a two-way feed
- EPA and CARB certified
- Includes 5-bushel capacity debris bag
- Optional tow hitch available
- Gas powered engine perfect for branches up to 2.5 inches
- Jams easily with thicker branches
5. The Yard Machines 208cc : Great for Leaves
The Yard Machines 208cc Chipper Shredder runs off of a 205 cc OHV engine. This wood chipper works perfectly on branches and organic material with a diameter up to 2 inches. Debris is reduced at a ten to one ratio with the Yard Machines Chipper.
This offering from Yard Machines features a 3-way system.
The system includes a drop-down chute, a rake in cute, and a chipper chute offering you maximized personalization to your preferred methods.
- 205 cc OHV engine
- Amazing for leaves and smaller materials
- Three different methods of feeding the machine with organic plant matter
- Moderately priced
- Doesn’t work as well on bigger branches or very fibrous plant matter
6. The YARDMAX YW7565 : Most Durable Option
The YARDMAX YW7565 Chipper Shredder offers a durable and easy to use chipper that creates chips, compost, or mulch. The wood chipper works off of a self-feeding system. This model can safely accommodate branches and debris up to three inches in diameter.
The YARDMAX YW7565 Chipper Shredder is great in any terrain thanks to its pneumatic wheels.
The solid steel casings of the chipper provide a sturdy surface while the easily accessible chipper blades provide for a simple cleaning experience.
- Accommodates branches and materials up to three inches in diameter
- Solid steel casings
- Easy to clean
- Extremely durable
- No debris bag is included
7. GreatCircleUSA 7HP Heavy Duty : Best All Around
The GreatCircleUSA 7HP Heavy Duty Wood Chipper runs on a 3 in 1 chipper design.
This chipper has a top hopper for use in large volume chipping, a side chute for smaller limbs or branches, and a back vacuum inlet that is used for loading in leaves for shredding.
Our testing team was thrilled that this machine has so many amazing applications, giving you plenty of bang for your buck.
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Easy to use and maintain
- 3 in 1 design
- Great price
- A bit heavier than similar versions
8. Eco-Shredder ES1600 : Best for Protecting the Environment
Our testing team is pretty convinced that Mother Nature would approve of the Eco-Shredder ES1600 14-Amp Electric Chipper/Shredder.
This model is quieter and cleaner than similar versions.
It accommodates branches with a diameter of up to 1.375 inches.
- Better for the environment
- Great for smaller branches up to 1.375 inches in diameter
- V-type blade
- Rounded chute
- Not meant for heavier duty work
9. Sun Joe CJ602E-GRY : Best Option for Those on a Strict Budget
The Sun Joe is a budget-priced option available in three colors: gray, green, and red. The chipper is powered by a 15-amp motor which allows revolutions of up to 4,300 rpm.
It breaks debris down to 1/17th of its previous size. The Sun Joe Chipper/Shredder safely accommodates material with a diameter of up to 1.5 inches.
The mulch and chips produced are great for tending your garden.
- Electric powered
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Awesome price point
- Budget option is not able to tackle thicker branches or plant materials
10. Power Smart PowerSmart PS10 : Great for Light Duty Jobs or Individuals Unable to Tolerate Heavier Models
The Power Smart Chipper is an electric model. It is extremely lightweight at around 30 pounds. The motor runs of 15 amps and can tackle lighter chipping duties for branches up to 1 5/8 inches.
The Power Smart Chipper is great for covering a large area due to its lightweight frame.
One of our testers had recent back surgery and was astounded at how light this model really is.
- Extremely lightweight at just over 30 pounds
- Easy to use
- Cuts branches up to 1 5/8 inches in diameter
- The blades dulled somewhat faster than similar options
Best Wood Chipper – Buyer’s Guide
Whether you are new to using a wood chipper or simply after a newer, spiffier model, finding the best shredder may seem difficult. While researching and reviewing our top ten best wood chippers, we also cultivated this handy dandy guide. We will explore the ins and out of wood chippers and give you some helpful hints and safety tips.
Who Needs a Wood Chipper?
You are most likely wondering whether you actually need a wood chipper if you have landed on our page. First things first, if you have organic matter consisting of plants, grasses, trees, bushes, or leaf matter in your yard then the short answer is yes. You could theoretically cut back the organic material, rake it up into manageable piles, and then burn the materials.
Using a shredder, chipper, or mulching will save you time and frustration while also lowering the chance of an unintended outcome like a fire or property damage. This type of machinery has become both easier and safer to use in recent years as well. This is due in part to new technological advances as well as safety industry standards that dictate the necessary safety measures for heavy machinery. Chippers are now a commonly found piece in many home landscaping and gardening enthusiasts tool sheds.
The Different Types of Wood Chippers
Similar to other gardening and landscaping tools, there are different versions of wood chippers available. Some are chippers, some are shredders, others can do both, and then there are also mulchers. Let’s take a closer look at what the individual versions are capable of.
Wood Chipper
A traditional wood chipper is an extremely powerful piece of machinery. It can break down pieces of wood in nearly any size as long as it fits into the wood chipper’s chute. Sharp blades lie inside bolted to a rotating disc inside of the chipper. As wood feeds through the machine, the blades rotate and chop the wood up into chips which are then expelled from the side of the chipper.
If your yard has trees with branches that need to be disposed of, a wood chipper is definitely a smart purchase. The wood does not have to be dry to be fed into the chipper which is another obvious plus. These are just two reasons demonstrating the appeal and need for one of your very own.
Wood Shredder
A wood shredder is sort of like the wood chipper’s little brother. The two tools look similar but have two distinct differences. A wood shredder utilizes flails (blunt blades) to trim the wood, and it produces mulch rather than chips. You may want to go with a wood shredder if you have smaller branches and yard waste to manage.
Mulcher
A mulcher is a wonderful tool if you need to deal with softer organic materials. If you attempt to put an actual tree branch into a mulcher, the machine will most certainly break, and you could cause serious damage to it or wind up getting hurt yourself. They work well with grass, leaves, or little twigs to make compost.
Electric, Gas, or PTO Chippers
The way that your new wood chipper is powered can make a huge difference. Chippers can be electric powered, gas powered, or designated as PTO chippers. Here’s an in-depth examination of each version.
Electric Wood Chippers
Electric shippers are built in a way that looks somewhat similar to a golf bag. The machines are compact and are powered by an electric extension cord. As long as you have an outlet, you can simply plug it in and get down to business.
Electric powered chippers are smaller and lighter making them a breeze to transport or carry around as you work on your yard. They require less maintenance and upkeep to keep them running in tip top shape compared to other versions. On the downside, they are not able to handle very large branches.
Gas Powered Wood Chippers
Gas powered wood chippers are the Optimus Prime of chippers. These are the big guys that are tasked with tackling large branches and tree limbs. Gas chippers are available in different styles such as heavy-duty models that also shred, walk-behind vacuum chippers, and ones that accommodate branches that are smaller or those that destroy branches of up to 7 inches.
PTO Wood Chippers
PTO stands for Power take off. This form of wood chipper was crafted for farms and other professional uses.
PTO chippers are powered by the drive shaft of a tractor, allowing the tractor to chop down branches up to 8 inches in diameter through an auto feed system.
Staying Safe While Using Your Wood Chipper
If you have ever seen Fargo you most likely have a fundamental understanding of how dangerous this heavy-duty piece of machinery truly is. If you haven’t seen it, let’s just say you do not want to accidentally put your arm or anything important to you in the chute of the chipper. Here are some excellent wood chipper safety tips that we have curated to keep you safer while using and enjoying your new wood chipper.
Load Size
You want to avoid feeding excessively large wood pieces into the chipper. Doing so can result in injury to yourself or your wood chipper. Always follow the directions in your owner’s manual regarding the size of branches and debris that your new wood chipper can accommodate. Do not try to force large pieces through by pushing them.
Due to the nature of the wood chipper’s mechanics, shoving huge pieces into the cute could result in it being discharged backwards. When the wood chipper is overloaded, large pieces could be ejected. Huge chunks of ejected wood are a perfect recipe for blunt force trauma, so always follow the guidelines on the sizing of debris and limbs.
Proper Attire
Yard work is not the best time to wear your fanciest clothing, but you still need to think about what you will be dressed in. Avoid baggy clothing, untucked shirts, belts, dangling jewelry, or too long sleeves as they could get caught in the chipper. Long hair should be tied back.
You should also invest in a pair of safety goggles if you do not already own some. Ear protection to protect your hearing is another way to ensure you remain safe while operating your new wood chipper. A hard hat can protect you from any stray chunks of wood as well.
Safety Tips While Feeding the Chipper
A broomstick is ideal for helping to push debris and limbs into the chute of your wood chipper. This will keep your hands and body away from the dangerously sharp blades. Avoid standing directly in front of the feeding chute area or in the path of the hopper.
You will also need to take special care to ensure children or pets are at a safe distance when the machine is in use. As wood chips, shreds, or mulch fly out it could hit a bystander and cause serious injury. Stay on alert at all times since there are no minor accidents with wood chippers; they are almost always severely detrimental.
Keep Things Tidy
Your new wood chipper will create a large amount of debris. That is the machines main purpose. The debris will start to pile up while you are using the wood chipper.
You can easily avoid slipping, falling, or tripping in the debris by adopting a clean as you go policy. Do not let excess debris build up. Sweep it away regularly to avoid accidents.
We hope you enjoyed our article featuring the best wood chippers for cleaning up your yard. Purchasing a wood chipper is a big investment. Not only are the costly but they can be quite large and cumbersome. A wood chipper can also be a very dangerous machine to operate if you do not follow the manufacturer’s directions and warnings.
Now that you understand the major differences in wood chippers, the ways they are powered, and how to stay safer, you can make an informed choice on which is best for you. We would love to hear back from you! Drop us a quick line below with your tips and tricks to safely using a wood chipper and your favorite model.
WM says
Earthquake 9060300 isn’t only the editor’s choice but mine. Recommend this wood chipper to everyone who wants a good product for a reasonable price.
Polly says
I know that the Tazz 18493 K32 isn’t a popular option, but I’m happy I’ve been using it for more than half of a year. This wood chipper costs its money and can give a great result.
Kira says
For me, one of the most important things is the size and weight of a wood chipper. That’s why I chose The Tazz 18493 K32 Chipper Shredder. I can’t say a lot about it because I’ve been using this chipper only for a few months. But I’m sure it won’t disappoint me.
David F. says
I’m new to all these garden things, that’s why a needed an option which would be easy to work with. I bought Patriot CSV-2515 no matter it was quite expensive. I can’t say anything special, just because it works really good and does its work without problems. Look at this variant if you want a good start.
Laura says
This wood chipper wasn’t the first I’ve ever used, that’s why I can compare it with the other options on the market. And it’s really good! I suppose you’re lucky that you’ve found it for the first time.
John says
Speaking about the wood chippers, I use Southland SCS2052. I like its price and quality of work. And certificates only prove that it is a great product.
Alex G. says
If you’re looking for a good wood chipper, I recommend paying attention to Tazz 18493 K32. Its design and size will be probably appreciated by you as it was with me.
Veronika says
But I don’t think this wood chipper is powerful enough. I’m just comparing it with the other options represented here, but don’t know actually which one is the best as I’m not a very experienced gardener.
Ariel says
I wanted to help my husband to find the best wood chipper, but now I understand it’s impossible to choose anything if you aren’t aware of all the technical characteristics. I just don’t understand what all these words mean, so my husband will do the choice on his own.
Rachel says
Finding a good wood chipper is a hard task but I have no regrets about Eco-Shredder ES1600. I like the type of its blades and the fact that influences on the environment not so harmful.
Rita F. says
For me, the most important thing to look at is the price. Sometimes I just can’t understand why a wood chipper is such an expensive thing. I suppose it’s because I’ve never been a gardener before. I didn’t know it requires so much money and powers!
charlotte says
I’ve found out a problem which couldn’t be a problem. I even didn’t think that such things happen. After I’ve bought a wood chipper I noticed that no debris bag is included. And it’s a real problem for me. Now I’ll try to return it and find something else. But be more attentive and don’t do like me.
Vivian says
YARDMAX YW7565 is so easy to clean! It’s a dream of everyone who uses wood chippers often. I suppose it’s very durable, for the past half of a year nothing bad happened, no breakouts.
Elijah says
There’s no ideal wood chipper, we should recognize it. One year it works perfectly, the other year it’s broken and doesn’t work really. I don’t know which one to choose now, as I have to buy something to replace the broken one. And, unfortunately, I didn’t find the answer on this page.
Aiyana says
Southland SCS2052 is perfect for my branches and copes with every task I’m waiting to be done by this chipper. I highly recommend you to look at this option and to read more about it on this website as all the information is well-structured and gives the right picture of the future result.
Cayson says
Eco-Shredder ES1600 isn’t that harmful to the environment, that’s why I chose it among others on the market. So, I can’t say anything special about its work, as it works as a usual wood chipper. But, of course, the environmetally-friendly feature is a benefit.
Larry says
The key thing about wood chippers is weight. I’m always searching for a lighter option not to hurt my back after a few hours of gardening. So, I’m still searching and still can’t find the ideal one.
Lev says
We bought The Tazz 18493 K32 and did not regret it. Come in handy every season. We do two things at once: remove unnecessary branches from our garden, and use sawdust as drainage for plants.
Iyen says
Gas shredder is much more efficient. The Tazz 18493 produces more, although it is a bit noisier than, for example, Ertnkuake. Although in the field this is not a problem
Connor says
The ear defenders supplied are needed when working close to The Yard machine. I have also found it quite economical on fuel and easy to start.
Adrian says
the Yard is quite difficult to move around. Perhaps I am not strong enough.
The whole item need to be raised to make it work better. I always put it on planks.
Christian says
I’m for Sun-Joe product… shredded small branches with little effort, the entry point for the branches has a larger round end so you don’t put anything in that’s too big
Viktor says
Me too! It has been shredding large prunings from an overgrown bay shrub with no problem at all. I put a plastic garden trug bucket under it to collect the shreddings and it does the job of machines 5 x the price.
Herry says
Tazz is a very unusual thing. Despite the complexity of the assembly, it works perfectly. And sharpen it perfectly!
Fred says
What could be better than a gas engine? I am for Tazz!
Hugo says
When I bought YARDMAX I couldn’t get it to start, which was my fault, I called the company a real human answered the phone he did not forward me to someone else And he told me what I needed to do to start the machine, it started immediately. Unbelievable customer service! Also now that I’m using it I’m extremely happy with the machine itself.
Thomas says
I also bought YARDMAX. Packaged very well
Easy to put together
Extremely easy to start
Chips green pine/maple/oak branches very easily up to 3″ +
Shreds dry leaves, twigs, pine cones, etc.. without any clogging (just don’t put too much in at once)
DingaLing says
I’m going to try to design my own ” leaf” mulcher, by putting some dry leaves in a large outside trash can. I will have to tinker with how much, maybe start out with about 10 gal, then stick my weed eater down inside the can, and let it rip tater chip! I may have to design a way to close the lid, or make a lid, and definitely wear eye protection. This is basically about what small electric leaf mulchers are. They use weed eater line. So, make your own. Do not use sticks, close or design a lid, wear eye protection!
Trish says
We’ve joined with neighbors and purchased a heavier chipper than if we had purchased just for us. Really working out well as everyone can do a great cleanup job and someone always needs wood chips for their landscaping.
Thanks for the article and for including the safety tips!