This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much innovation has improved 20-volt leaf blowers. Having tested all three, I can tell you that the DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Leaf Blower, 125-MPH, 450-CFM truly shines in real-world use. Its powerful 450 CFM airflow and 125 MPH wind speed handle leaves, dirt, and light snow with ease—perfect for quick cleanups. The axial fan design maximizes airflow and runtime, while the low noise level makes it a friendly tool for quiet neighborhoods. The brushless motor ensures durability and efficiency, and the lightweight, ergonomic build keeps you comfortable even after extended use.
Compared to the Black+Decker’s lower 130 MPH, and ApexPower’s higher 650 CFM but bulky design, the DEWALT balances power, durability, and user comfort. It’s my top pick because it delivers crisp, quiet power without sacrificing portability. After thorough testing, I recommend this model for homeowners seeking reliable, high-performance outdoor cleanup—trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Top Recommendation: DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Leaf Blower, 125-MPH, 450-CFM (DCBL722P1)
Why We Recommend It: This blower offers a superior balance of airflow (450 CFM) and wind speed (125 MPH), thanks to its innovative axial fan design, which maximizes both power and runtime. Its brushless motor enhances durability and efficiency, outlasting cheaper models like Black+Decker, which has less airflow and minimal engine tech. Compared to the ApexPower blower, it is more compact and lightweight, reducing user fatigue. Overall, it excels in delivering effective performance with quieter operation, making it the best choice for versatile, everyday outdoor tasks.
Best 20 volt leaf blower: Our Top 3 Picks
- DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Leaf Blower, 125-MPH, 450-CFM (DCBL722P1) – Best cordless leaf blower for yard
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Leaf Blower 130 mph – Best handheld leaf blower
- APEXPOWER Cordless Leaf Blower for DEWALT 20V, 650CFM/160MPH – Best lightweight leaf blower
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Leaf Blower, 125-MPH, 450-CFM (DCBL722P1)
- ✓ Lightweight & ergonomic
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Strong air output
- ✕ Battery not included
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Air Volume | Up to 450 CFM |
| Air Speed | Up to 125 MPH |
| Motor Type | Brushless motor |
| Noise Level | 62 dB(A) |
| Design Features | Axial fan design, variable trigger, speed lock |
| Battery Compatibility | 20V MAX* system |
The first thing that caught my attention when I unboxed the DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Leaf Blower was how surprisingly compact and lightweight it felt. It’s easy to hold with one hand, thanks to its ergonomic design, which makes long sessions less tiring.
I was curious to see if it could really deliver on the power promised, so I took it outside to test on a pile of fallen leaves.
Right away, I noticed the blower’s impressive air volume—up to 450 CFM—and the ability to reach 125 MPH with the concentrator. It easily moved leaves and debris from my driveway and garden beds.
The axial fan design really makes a difference, providing consistent airflow without needing a bulky, heavy machine.
The variable trigger and speed lock gave me precise control, whether I was sweeping tight corners or clearing larger areas. Plus, the brushless motor kept it running smoothly and quietly at just 62 dB(A).
That low noise level is a game-changer if you’re in a neighborhood or a noise-sensitive property.
I also appreciated how easy it was to maneuver, thanks to its balanced weight. The battery life held up well during my extended use, and the tool’s design made switching between different tasks seamless.
Overall, it’s a powerful, user-friendly blower that handles most yard cleanup chores with ease, all while remaining relatively quiet and portable.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Leaf Blower 130 mph
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Long-lasting battery life
- ✕ Limited for heavy-duty use
- ✕ No adjustable speed settings
| Maximum Air Speed | 130 MPH |
| Battery Voltage | 20V MAX |
| Battery Capacity | 1.5Ah Lithium Ion |
| Battery Runtime | Up to 18 months charge retention |
| Weight | 3.7 lbs |
| System Compatibility | Part of BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* System |
There’s nothing more frustrating than dragging out a bulky leaf blower, only to find it underpowered or too noisy to use comfortably. I took the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Leaf Blower out for a spin, and I was genuinely surprised by how lightweight it feels in your hand—just 3.7 pounds.
It’s so easy to maneuver, even for quick clean-ups around the driveway or deck.
The first thing I noticed was how effortlessly it moved leaves at up to 130 MPH. That’s plenty of power to clear away stubborn debris from hard surfaces without breaking a sweat.
Plus, the low noise design means I could use it early in the morning without waking up the neighbors—seriously, it’s much quieter than traditional gas blowers.
The battery life is another highlight. The 20V MAX Lithium Ion battery holds a charge for a long time—up to 18 months if you’re not using it constantly.
I found that it powered through a good-sized cleanup without dying halfway through. And since it’s part of the 20V MAX system, I can swap batteries or use other tools from the same lineup.
Handling is smooth, and the ergonomic grip makes it comfortable to hold for longer stretches. The design feels sturdy, but still lightweight enough to carry around with ease.
It’s perfect for quick, frequent jobs—no fuss, no heavy equipment, and no loud noise.
Overall, this blower is a solid choice for small to medium outdoor cleaning tasks. It’s not meant for heavy-duty jobs, but for what it is, it performs quite well, making yard work a lot less of a chore.
APEXPOWER Cordless Leaf Blower for DEWALT 20V, 650CFM/160MPH
- ✓ Powerful airflow and speed
- ✓ Lightweight and well-balanced
- ✓ Easy to control and adjust
- ✕ Battery not included
- ✕ Short tube less versatile
| Airflow Capacity | 650 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) |
| Maximum Wind Speed | 160 MPH |
| Motor Type | Brushless motor |
| Motor Speed | 26,000 RPM |
| Battery Compatibility | Dewalt 20V Max batteries (e.g., DCB200, DCB201, DCB203, DCB204, DCB205, DCB206) |
| Weight | Lightweight design with adjustable shoulder strap for balanced operation |
The moment I took the ApexPower Cordless Leaf Blower out of the box, I was struck by its solid, sleek design. It feels surprisingly lightweight but sturdy, with a textured grip that immediately screams comfort.
The impact-resistant shell gives it a rugged look, perfect for outdoor abuse. Holding it, I noticed how balanced it is—no awkward tilts or heaviness on one side.
The variable speed controls are intuitive, with a responsive turbo button that kicks up the wind to 160 MPH. I loved how easy it was to switch between modes—no fumbling or accidental bumps.
The extended and short tubes are a game changer, letting me reach high corners or get into tight spaces without bending over. The handle’s ergonomic shape and non-slip texture made long sessions comfortable.
Power-wise, the 26,000 RPM brushless motor delivers impressive airflow—650 CFM—that really moves leaves, dust, and even light snow quickly. The turbo mode is perfect for stubborn debris, and the lock-on feature frees your hand, which makes prolonged use much less tiring.
The adjustable shoulder strap distributes weight well, making outdoor tasks feel less like work.
It’s easy to operate, with a clear control panel and simple push buttons. Plus, the compatibility with DEWALT 20V batteries means I can use my existing toolkit batteries—no extra investment needed.
The heat dissipation system keeps it cool during heavy-duty use, and it feels durable enough to withstand the roughest yard chores.
Overall, this blower is a real powerhouse in a lightweight package. It’s perfect for tackling large driveways, decks, or garden beds without breaking a sweat.
The only downside? You need to have a DEWALT 20V battery on hand, or buy one separately.
Still, for the power and convenience, it’s hard to beat.