Spend any time poking around landscaping forums, and you’ll quickly notice that two brands seem to rise to the top in every conversation: ECHO and Husqvarna. Both companies are world renowned for producing some of the best tools in the business, which makes it difficult to choose between the two when it’s time to make a purchase.
Today, we’re going to try and make that decision a bit easier as we pit two of the best mid-tier blowers against each other in the battle of the ECHO PB 580T vs Husqvarna 350BT.
Why You Need a Gas Leaf Blower
These days, there’s electric versions of virtually every gas-powered tool you could want. While there’s something to be said for the economic and environmental benefits of electric tools, the fact is they simply can’t compete with gas when it comes to power.
If you need a high-powered leaf blower that can tackle anything your yard can throw at it, the choice is clear.
ECHO PB 580T vs Husqvarna 350BT: Key Differences
At first glance, these two blowers are very similar. They’re both backpack blowers that pack some serious power, and they’re both priced around $300. They even follow the same color scheme. But, under the hood, there are some clear differences between these two models.
Both blowers feature two-stroke engines in the 50cc range. The ECHO’s engine is slightly larger and clocks in at 58cc compared to 50cc for the Husqvarna. Both blowers are relatively similar in size, although the Husqvarna is slightly smaller and heavier than the ECHO.
While the Husqvarna engine is smaller, it employs their patented X-Torq engine design which increases power while reducing emissions. Despite its small size, the Husqvarna engine has no problem competing in the power department, which is one of the key areas that separates these two blowers.
While the ECHO blower clocks in with a maximum air speed of 215 MPH and a max air flow of 510 CFM, the smaller Husqvarna blower can dwarf those figures and provides a maximum air speed of 251 MPH and a maximum airflow of 710 CFM.
Another significant difference between these blowers is noise — the Husqvarna blower clocks in at 104 dB, which is pretty standard for a blower in this category. However, the ECHO is incredibly quiet and generates only 70 dB. This is a major plus because you can use the ECHO blower without hearing protection.
Another key difference is the warranty of these blowers. The Husqvarna warranty is a little on the lighter side and will cover you for two years. Meanwhile, the ECHO blower offers a much more comprehensive warranty that covers you for five years.
The fuel tank on the ECHO blower is about 33% larger than the Husqvarna’s tank, which may be important to you if you’re looking to maintain a large piece of property without having to run back to your gas can in the middle of the job.
Which Blower is Best For Me?
Sometimes, the differences are so clear between two models that it’s easy to decide on a winner. With these two blowers, that isn’t the case.
Each blower has its pros and cons, and choosing the best blower for your needs boils down to analyzing which one has the features that you care about more.
The Husqvarna blower offers the most power, but it’s much louder and carries a much shorter warranty.
Meanwhile, the ECHO blower doesn’t deliver as well as the Husqvarna in the power department, but it’s among the quietest blowers on the market, and it features an industry leading warranty.
So, what’s more important to you? Power or peace of mind? If you’re looking for the most powerful blower, go with the Husqvarna. But, if you’re looking for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re covered for five years should something go wrong, the ECHO may be better for you.
ECHO PB-580T Overview
The PB-580T from ECHO has high-end features that make this blower a joy to use.
It features a large 58cc engine and a maximum air speed of 215 MPH with a maximum airflow of 510 CFM. Despite the large size of the engine, this blower weighs in at a lean 20 ½ pounds. The padded and vented backrest and shoulder straps make this blower easy and comfortable to lug around, even if the large 62 oz fuel tank is at full capacity.
Other intuitive features like Posi-Loc pipe connectors, a leaf guard, four-point vibration reduction system, and an automotive-style air filter help provide reliable operation and long-lasting durability.
As a testament to their durability, this blower carries an industry-leading five-year warranty, so you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re covered should anything go wrong.
What We Like
- Comfortable to wear
- Great warranty
- Large fuel capacity
What Could Be Better
- Mediocre power
Husqvarna 150BT Overview
The 350BT from Husqvarna provides impressive power and performance at a price point that’s typically reserved for much less powerful blowers.
While the engine size of this blower is on the small size at only 50cc, it’s still incredibly powerful thanks to the X-Torq engine system. This patented system provides an engine that’s significantly more powerful than other 50cc engines while reducing emissions by as much as 60%.
The proof is in the pudding when it comes to the 350BT’s power. It produces an impressive airspeed of 251 MPH and a maximum air volume of 710 CFM. You’ll have a hard time finding a blower in this class that can keep up with the 350BT.
This blower is relatively small and clocks in at 22 ½ pounds. The ergonomic strap system makes this blower particularly comfortable to wear, even during longer jobs.
Two areas where this blower could be improved are the fuel tank capacity, which is only 42 ounces and the warranty, which covers you for two years. Outside of these two small caveats, the 350BT is one of the most capable and value-driven blowers you’ll find.
What We Like
- Incredibly powerful for its size
- Comfortable to wear
- Cruise control
What Could Be Better
- Warranty is only two years
- Fuel tank is small
Final Word
When it comes to the battle of the ECHO PB 580T vs Husqvarna 350BT, picking a clear winner isn’t easy. The ECHO blower is very capable and features an impressive warranty while the Husqvarna features far more power, but a much shorter warranty.
If power is more important to you, the Husqvarna will probably be your best choice. But, if you prize an extended warranty, then the ECHO may be a better choice.
Which blower is the winner? Sound off in the comments.
The CFM for the 150BT listed in this article is incorrect. 710 cfm is the airflow in the housing. The airflow in the pipe is 434 .37 cfm. The Echo is 517 cfm in pipe. Also, the BT150 air speed is actually 214mph with round pipe and 251mph with reducer pipe. The reducer pipe increases speed but reduces CFM. So the air speed between the two units are about equal when using same size pipes. To me the echo PB 580 is the better value.
Lowes has the 150BT as having a db rating of only 71; I’ve also seen that at the housing it is 94, at 50 ft away it is 71. Where is 104 coming from?