The Stihl BGE 60 is a powerful, yet lightweight electric blower that is easy to use and has plenty of sweeping power to move debris -- even piles of wet leaves. And with a noise output of only 64 decibels, it is quieter than gas blowers, so it's also neighbor friendly.

Although it is more expensive than many electric blowers, the Stihl BGE 60 offers a good value for the dollar. The 9.6 amp electric motor moves air through the nozzle at 139 mph, with a cubic-feet-per-minute rating of 362 cfm. The unit weighs just 6.4 pounds.

The balance and light weight of the Stihl BGE 60 allow you to use this unit for extended periods without becoming fatigued. We found that the blower rounds up loose and even wet leaves quickly and efficiently, rolling them where we wanted. It made quick work of clearing the driveway, garage and flowerbeds of leaves and other small organic debris. The helper handle is integrated into the back of the base of the blower and is handy for shorter people or people with limited strength who must use both hands for the best control.

We liked the convenience of plugging an extension cord into the outdoor outlet and beginning the job with the flip of a switch rather than messing with fuel and having to restart an engine each time we needed to stop for a moment. The extension plug stayed securely fastened in the spring-hinged cord-keeper. Be sure to use an outdoor-approved extension cord. Stihl suggests 18 gauge for a 25-foot cord, 16 gauge for a 50-foot cord or 14 gauge for a 100 foot cord.

The handle is contoured for a comfortable grip and the tube length is adjustable. The Stihl BGE 60 converts to a vacuum with the addition of an optional vacuum kit. And it can clean your gutters with the addition of a gutter kit.

The Stihl BGE 60 electric power blower boasts enough power to move leaves wherever you want them, is quiet for a leaf blower, and offers the option of adding vacuum and gutter attachments.


Pros: Lightweight, quiet, well balanced
Cons: Requires electrical cord, more costly than many electric models, vacuum kit is not included