15 Best Chipper Shredder for Composting
The best chipper shredder for composting will turn your garden waste into rich mulch.
Next season, you can add your homemade compost into your vegetable garden, and enjoy tasty, organic vegetables. However, finding the right machine can be hard with so many options available.
In this article, I will review different units and help you find the right one for your needs.
What’s the Difference Between a Shredder and a Chipper?
The physical appearance of shredders, mulchers, and chippers is similar but they perform differently and have different purposes.
For instance, chippers handle harder and bigger loads. They chop tree trunks and longs into small pieces. Their system is made to handle that type of material.
They also have sturdy blades that rotate at high speeds. They’re also very sharp. Therefore, they can cut through both wet and dry wood, so their output is larger.
Mulchers, on the other hand, have a more delicate design, so they can’t handle any wood. Their purpose is to shred smooth organic matter usually made of leaves.
Shredders can handle branches and twigs. They’re hybrid units that utilize blunt blades, so they can’t cut tough wood. They’re quiet and have a smaller output.
In today’s article, I will review chipper shredders. You can either buy a gas-powered or electric machine. Let’s take a look at both types.
Electric
Electric chipper shredders gain power from the main power supply. Meaning, they require a cable that meets the demands of gardens.
A long connecting cable is preferred to enable easy movement of the unit around the property. They’re not as powerful as gas-powered machines.
However, they’re eco-friendly, user-friendly, and require less maintenance. Electric units can withstand just light debris, smaller twigs, and leaves.
They’re not powerful enough to handle tree limbs. Despite that, they’re lightweight and provide a quiet and emissions-free operation.
Gas-Powered
Gas-powered chipper shredders provide greater power because they’re powered by gasoline. The main advantage is their bigger load capacity and quick work.
These units can handle bigger loads and perform much faster. Therefore, when it comes to maintaining a large garden, a gas-run model is the preferred choice.
What Are the Best Chipper Shredder for Composting?
The best chipper shredder for composting isn’t that difficult to find if you consider brands like Worx, Sun Joe, and Landworks. They’re all popular and reliable brands that stand behind their products.
Whether you prefer a gas-run machine for greater power or an electric one for a hassle-free experience, they can respond to your needs thanks to their wide range of both electric and gas-powered units.
That being said, let’s take a closer look at some of their most popular models. The next section highlights some of their greatest units along with less known but still powerful and worth buying models.
- Best Overall: Landworks Super Heavy Duty Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Grear machine for the money, advanced design, detailed instructions, excellent for heavy-duty tasks.” - Best Budget: Sun Joe CJ603E Electric Wood Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Great piece of gardening equipment, prepping and trimming larger branches is easy, easy to assemble.” - Best Electric: Sun Joe CJ602E 15-Amp Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Solid, effective, reversible, and replaceable blades, works well at breaking down branches, powerful.” - Best Gas-Powered: SuperHandy Ultra Heavy Duty Chipper Shredder Mulcher
“A must-have for homeowners, suitable for light- and heavy-duty jobs, starts easy, runs great, effective.” - Best Lightweight: PowerSmart PS10 Electric Garden Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Well-thought design, a great tool at a great price, perfect for long thin branches, works great for twigs.” - Best Heavy-Duty: Champion Power Equipment 3-inch Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Starts easily every time, perfect for stubborn branches and shrubs, a great chipper to clean up the yard.” - Best Mini: Landworks Heavy Duty Mini Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Perfect for small jobs, great bang for the buck, easy to assemble and utilize, great economical chipper. - Best for Small Jobs: Sun Joe CJ602E-RED Electric Wood Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Perfect for small branches, a must-have for the average homeowner, instant start, powerful operation.” - Best for Large Jobs: Tazz 18493 K32 Multi-Function Chipper Shredder for Composting
“Compact yet powerful, ideal for large yards, no more hauling branches with this unit, easy to assemble.” - Best Portable: Earthwise GS70015 Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting
“You don’t need instructions to figure it out, the finished material is perfect for garden mulch, compact.”
15 Best Chipper Shredder for Composting 2023
If your yard maintenance results in stacks of branches and sacks of dry leaves, consider buying a chipper shredder that will reduce yard waste. It will also help you grow healthy and organic veggies.
The following chart compares some of the greatest models available at the moment. If you’re in a hurry, it can help you find the best chipper shredder for composting that meets your requirements.
Top 15 Best Chipper Shredder for Composting Reviews 2023
After maintaining your garden, you will probably end up with a pile of branches and twigs. This is where chipper shredders for composting step in and save the day.
These machines can help you deal with branches, twigs, and leaves. Taking them for disposal takes time and costs money. Besides, why not have organic compost for your garden?
Finding the best chipper shredder for composting can save you time. And help you grow healthy edibles, so let’s review some models and select the right one for you.
Landworks Super Heavy Duty Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Overall)
This heavy-duty chipper, shredder, and mulcher workhorse is a must-have for any homeowner because it’s a multi-functional 3-in-1 super machine with a reduction ratio of 15:1.
It’s very powerful thanks to the 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine. This machine also withstands up to 3-inch diameter materials with great ease.
The slanted housing design prevents jams. The machine has a side chute for 3-inch branches and limbs, a leaf vacuum for mulching, and a top hopper for 1/2-inch chipping and shredding.
It’s CARB/EPA certified and makes a perfect choice for gardens, landscaping, forestry, and green waste recycling to chip tree branches, mulch leaves, shred brush, and corn stocks.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Landworks |
| Motor: | 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 15:1 |
| Warranty: | 3-year limited warranty |
| Wheels: | 10-inch all-terrain PU solid wheels |
Key Features:
- CARB/EPA certified
- 10-inch all-terrain wheels
- Vacuum, mulch, and shred leaves
- 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered motor
- Chip and shred branches and twigs
- Multi-functional capability
- A reduction ratio of 15:1
Pros
- Advanced design
- Easy to put together
- Great machine for the money
- Great customer service
- Works as advertised
- Clear instructions
Cons
- Limited use
- The bag is too small and fills quickly
- Poor shredding
Sun Joe CJ603E Electric Wood Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Budget)
The Sun Joe CJ603E is a quiet wood chipper shredder for turning brush, twigs, branches, and leaves into a natural, nutrient-rich mulch for your garden in the following year.
With this machine, you can reduce, reuse, and recycle your debris in no time! It has a 15-Amp motor but here’s the kicker. This workhorse can handle materials up to 1.73 inches in diameter.
The reduction ratio is 21:1, meaning that this machine can reduce 21 bags of debris into one bag. If you prefer a green alternative to gas-run units, this machine is for you.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Sun Joe |
| Motor: | 15-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | 21:1 |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 7-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- 15-Amp electric motor
- 7-inch wheels for easy handling
- Can handle materials up to 1.73 inches thick
- Portable, versatile, and compact
- A reduction ratio of 21:1
Pros
- Easy to assembly
- Modern and easy to utilize
- Great piece of gardening equipment
- Prepping and trimming larger branches is easy
- Quiet enough to run in a neighborhood
- A little beast that does the job
- Clear instructions
Cons
- It doesn’t do a good job for small and soft leaves
Sun Joe CJ602E 15-Amp Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting)
Another product by Sun Joe that’s worth mentioning is their CJ602E electric wood chipper shredder for composting. With this unit, you can turn your waste into a nutrient-rich mulch.
Powered by a strong 15-Amp motor, this machine provides speeds up to 4,300 RPM, making quick work out of leaves, branches, and brush. What I like most about this unit is the compactness.
It’s loaded with 6-inch wheels for easy portability and a safety hopper with a locking knob that prevents the engine from working when opened. It’s budget-friendly and super-versatile.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Sun Joe |
| Motor: | 15-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | 17:1 |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 6-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- 15-Amp motor
- Safety hopper with locking knob
- Can handle materials up to 1.5 inches thick
- Instant start and compact design
- 6-inch wheels
Pros
- Solid and effective machine
- Reversable and replacable blades
- Works well at breaking down branches
- Super powerful and safe to utilize
- Perfect for smaller yard jobs
Cons
- Limited use
SuperHandy Ultra Heavy Duty Chipper Shredder Mulcher –
(Best Gas-Powered Chipper Shredder for Composting)
If you’re searching for a heavy-duty 3-in-1 machine, then SuperHandy has the perfect option for you. It’s their chipper, shredder, and mulcher with a side chute for 3-inch branch/limps.
It also has atop hopper for 1/2-inch chipping/shredding and a leaf vacuum for mulching. This workhorse can reduce 15 bags of debris into a single bag. What’s unique about this unit is the design.
The slanted housing design decreases jams! You can easily hook up your small tractor, lawnmower, and ATV for simple transportation with a tow bar kit and utilize the vacuum inlet for easy leaf mulching with a vacuum kit (both sold separately). It’s a gas-powered machine with a 4-stroke OHV engine.
The SuperHandy Ultra can handle up to 3-inch diameter wood with great ease. The maximum capacity is 0.7 gallons. You don’t have to worry about safety as long as you operate according to the directions. And wear protective gear. You won’t receive engine oil. But you will get a CARB/EPA certification.
You can utilize this machine for gardens, forestry, landscaping, green waste recycling to chip branches or limbs, mulch leaves, and corn stock. It’s not suitable for pine cones, fresh greens, etc.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | SuperHandy |
| Motor: | 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 15:1 |
| Warranty: | 3-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 10-inch polyurethane wheels |
Key Features:
- 2 shredding knives
- Slanted housing design
- 3-in-1 gas-powered machine
- Attachable leaf vacuum for mulching
- Top hopper for 1/2-inch chipping/shredding
- Side chute for 3-inch branch and limbs
- 10-inch polyurethane wheels
- A reduction ratio of 15:1
- Sturdy handlebar
Pros
- A must-have for homeowners
- Effective, powerful, and affordable
- Suitable for both light- and heavy-duty jobs
- Great wood chipper and value
- Starts easy and runs great
Cons
- Hard to put together
- The bag is too small and fills quickly
- The exit chute is small
Landworks Heavy Duty Mini Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Mini Chipper Shredder for Composting)
Looking for a mini wood chipper, shredder, and mulcher that’s also powerful and long-lasting? If so, the Landworks heavy-duty is the perfect choice for you.
This small beast is capable of high volume chipping, shredding, and mulching through the large feeding chute for up to 3-inch limbs, branches, and garden debris.
The reduction ratio is 15:1, meaning that the unit can easily reduce 15 bags of debris into a single bag. But what I appreciate the most about this unit is the design.
It’s built to be lighter than other steel machines. I also love the accurate debris discharge thanks to the adjustable discharge guide with a range of 90°-145° degrees.
Landworks is another gas-powered unit with a 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV motor. It’s CARB/EPA certified, safe to use, and super-versatile.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Landworks |
| Motor: | 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 15:1 |
| Warranty: | 3-year limited warranty |
| Wheels: | 10-inch all-terrain rugged wheels |
Key Features:
- Gas-powered machine
- Can handle up to a 3-inch thickness
- Vertically extended discharge chute with adjustable discharge guide
- 10-inch all-terrain rugged wheels
- A reduction ratio of 15:1
Pros
- Perfect for small jobs
- Great bang for the buck
- Easy to assemble and utilize
- Great economical chipper
- Works as advertised
Cons
- Poorly designed feeding mechanism
Champion Power Equipment 3-inch Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Heavy-Duty Chipper Shredder for Composting)
The Champion Power Equipment chipper shredder is a portable machine created to handle brush, yard debris, leaves, and branches by turning them into decorative accents or mulch.
If you’re looking for a super-efficient unit that reduces 20 bags of debris and leaves to a single bag, look no further than Champion. It can handle branches and limbs up to 3 inches in diameter.
The chute features 6 shredder hammers and a 15.2-inch blade. Meaning, it’s perfect for shredding yard debris, leaves, and shrubbery up to 1/2-inch or less in diameter. You will also get a bag.
There’s also a handy clean-out port for the quick and safe removal of any blockages. What I appreciate the most about this machine is the durable steel frame. Thus, Champion is made to last!
It’s powered by a 224cc single-cylinder OHV motor with a low oil shut-off sensor. Last but not least, this unit is EPA certified and CARB exempt. And it’s backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Champion Power Equipment |
| Motor: | 224cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 20:1 |
| Warranty: | 2-year limited warranty |
| Wheels: | 12-inch never-flat tires |
Key Features:
- Low oil shut-off sensor
- A reduction ratio of 20:1
- A tough two-bushel collection bag
- Hardened steel blades and easy clean-out port
- 224cc single-cylinder OHV motor
- 2-year limited warranty
- Compact and vertical
Pros
- Starts easily every time
- Perfect for nasty branches/shrubs
- The bag is made of nice, heavy material
- Great chipper to clean up the yard
- Versatile and lightweight
Cons
- Poor customer service
Earthwise GS70015 Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Portable Chipper Shredder for Composting)
The Earthwise GS70015 is a modern chipper shredder for composting with a slim design.
What I like most about this machine are the portability and compactness. It’s easy to use and easy to put together. It has a lightweight yet powerful construction that doesn’t pollute the environment.
With this electric machine, you can easily get rid of the garden waste and get it ready for your compost pit. It’s loaded with a 15-Amp electric motor and can handle branches up to 1.75 inches thick.
But there’s more! The package also includes a 1.2-bushel collection bin for easier cleaning.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Earthwise |
| Motor: | 15-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | 10:1 |
| Warranty: | 1-year warranty |
| Wheels: | Durable rear wheels |
Key Features:
- 15-Amp motor
- 2-bushel collection bin
- Can handle branches up to 1.75 inches thick
- Durable rear wheels
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Perfect for smaller tasks
- The collection bin is a nice touch and handy
- The finished material is perfect for garden mulch
- You don’t need instructions to figure it out
- Lightweight yet powerful
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Cheaply made
Sun Joe CJ602E-RED Electric Wood Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Chipper Shredder for Small Jobs)
The Sun Joe CJ602E-Red is another electric super-versatile machine that can easily turn your yard waste into a nutrient-rich mulch.
It’s powered by a strong 15-Amp motor and provides speeds up to 4,300 RMP. With this model, you will save both time and money.
However, most importantly, you will save the environment. This machine can handle branches up to 1.5-inches thick with great ease.
The locking knob on the safety hopper stops the engine from operating when opened. It also has 6-inch wheels for easy portability.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Sun Joe |
| Motor: | 15-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | 17:1 |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 6-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- Powerful 15-Amp electric motor
- ETL approved, compact, and lightweight
- Can handle branches up to 1.5-inches thick
- A reduction ratio of 17:1 and 6-inch wheels
- Safety hopper with locking knob
Pros
- Perfect for small branches
- The motor is about as loud as a vacuum
- A must-have for the average homeowner
- Instant start and powerful operation
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Limited use
- Can’t handle soft and wet materials
- Better options available
Patriot Products CSV-2515 Electric Chipper Shredder for Composting
If you’re in the market for something reliable, eco-friendly, and super popular, then Patriot Products has the right product for you. It’s their CSV-2515 electric chipper and leaf shredder.
This machine can handle materials up to 2 1/2 inches in diameter. It’s also great for shredding leaves. It’s a green alternative that can be utilized inside your basement, garage, or outdoors.
Just plug it into your standard 110-volt outlet and you’re good to go! Keep in mind that you will a cord of fewer than 100 feet as this machine draws 14 amps of electricity. It weighs less than 100 pounds and has large wheels for easy portability. The package includes a collection bag and goggles.
It’s backed by a two-year warranty in case something goes wrong. The Patriot Products machine is a safe and easy way to help clean debris from your property and make a garden mulch.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Patriot Products |
| Motor: | 14-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | Not specified |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | Large wheels |
Key Features:
- Perfect for both beginners and professions
- Large wheels, 2-year warranty, and compact design
- Can handle branches up to 2 1/2 inches in diameter
- Quiet, smooth, and maintenance-free electric motor
- Ac collection bag and safety goggles included
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Long-lasting and super convenient
- Well-engineered and operates smoothly
- Clear and well-written instructions
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Clogs easily
- Jams occasionally
- Overpriced
Tazz 22752 K33 301cc Gas-Powered Chipper Shredder for Composting
The Tazz 22752 K33 is a less known machine but worth discussing. It’s a super-powerful machine with a 301cc Viper engine and a five-year warranty.
Meaning, the brand stands behind its product and cares about your satisfaction. Tazz has 11-inch wheels that will never let you down and a rugged debris bag.
The bag has a bottom-out zipper. There’s also a fast dock and lock bag connector. However, what I enjoy most about this machine is the compact design.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Tazz |
| Motor: | 301cc Viper engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 20:1 |
| Warranty: | 5-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 11-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use debris bag
- Tough, durable components
- Can handle branches up to 3 inches in diameter
- Compact and portable design
- 301cc 4-cycle Viper engine
Pros
- Built to last
- Super powerful
- Excellent machine for yard cleanup
- The easiest bag to use in the industry
- Reduces branches to mulch quickly
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
Cons
- Hard to start
- The feed tube for large limbs is small
- Poorly made
PowerSmart PS10 Electric Garden Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Lightweight Chipper Shredder for Composting)
The PowerSmart PS10 is another electric chipper shredder with a 15-Amp motor. It generates a speed of 4,500 RPM. But here’s the kicker. This beast can handle branches up to 1 5/8 inches.
It has a safety locking knob to prevent the machine and blade from starting or spinning when turned on.
There’s also an overload button that will turn off the unit if it’s fed too much at once.
The machine weighs only 33 pounds, so it’s easily mobile. If you’re looking for a machine that can handle small and medium gardening jobs, look no further than the PowerSmart PS10 model.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | PowerSmart |
| Motor: | 15-Amp |
| Reduction ratio: | Not specified |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 6-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- 15-Amp motor
- Compact design with 6-inch wheels
- Can handle branches up to 1 5/8 inches thick
- Compact, lightweight, and versatile
- Locking knob
Pros
- Well-though design
- A great tool at a great price
- Great for getting rid of long thin branches
- Performs amazingly for twigs
- Works as advertised
Cons
- Jams at times
YARDMAX YW7565 3-inch Diameter Chipper Shredder for Composting
Yardmax yw7564 is a chipper shredder that can handle materials up to 3 inches and will help you get the job done. It’s perfect for any type of property.
This brand combines basic controls and powerful performance to meet the needs of both beginners and professionals. Their chipper shredder is a landscaper’s delight.
I like this machine because it’s durable, easy to use, and turns branches and other debris into mulch and compost in a few simple steps. It’s also portable and lightweight.
Not only you can clean your yard of debris but save time. And most importantly, you will save the planet by picking an electric over a gas-powered machine.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Yardmax |
| Motor: | Briggs & Stratton 6.5HP engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 10:1 |
| Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
| Wheels: | Pneumatic wheels |
Key Features:
- Durable and easy to use
- Easily accessible chipper blades
- Handles materials up to 3 inches in diameter
- Self-feeding and spacious chute
- Briggs & Stratton engine
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Nice chipper for the price
- Perfect for the average homeowner
- Works well with dry wood
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Clogs easily
Tazz 18493 K32 Multi-Function Chipper Shredder for Composting –
(Best Chipper Shredder for Large Jobs)
This is another Tazz chipper shredder that’s worth your attention and investment. If you’re looking for a multi-function machine, look no further than this model.
It’s powerful with a robust and easy starting Viper engine. This unit can handle materials up to 3 inches in diameter. The best part? It’s compact and has a 34-inch rugged steel hopper.
The mulch can be collected in the debris bag. The reduction ratio of this workhorse is 20:1 thanks to the heavy-duty knives and hammers in the grinding chamber.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Tazz |
| Motor: | 212cc Viper engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 20:1 |
| Warranty: | 5-year warranty |
| Wheels: | 11-inch wheels |
Key Features:
- 5-year warranty
- Easy to use debris bag
- Multi-function machine
- A reduction ratio of 20:1
- 212cc Viper engine
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Compact yet powerful
- No more hauling branches with this machine
- Perfect for larger yards
- Clear instructions
Cons
- Flimsy
- Jams at times
- Expensive
GreatCircleUSA 3-in-1 Gas-Powered Chipper Shredder for Composting
Another multi-functional machine that’s popular on the market is the GreatCircleUSA. It’s a 3-in-1 model with a reduction ratio of 15:1 when using the top hopper for ½ inches chipping/shredding.
The side chute can handle branches or limbs up to 3 inches. There’s also a leaf vacuum for mulching. The machine is driven by a 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine.
You can easily hookup your lawnmower, ATV, or small tractor for transportation with a tow bar kit that’s sold separately. The vacuum inlet for mulching can be used with a kit that’s also sold separately.
The machine is CARB/EPA certified and makes a great choice for gardens, forestry, landscaping, or green waste recycling to chip tree limbs or branches, corn stocks, mulch leaves, and shred brush.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | GreatCircleUSA |
| Motor: | 7HP 212cc 4-stroke horizontal single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 15:1 |
| Warranty: | 3-year warranty |
| Wheels: | Air-filled wheels |
Key Features:
- Air-filled wheels
- 3-in-1 wood machine
- Wide cone chute that makes loading easier and better
- Powerful 212cc 4-cycle single-cylinder OHV gas-powered engine
- Powder-coated heat-treated steel for maximum strength
- A reduction ratio of 15:1
- CARB/EPA certified
Pros
- Wood chipping monster
- Great price and easy to assemble
- Does the job quickly and efficiently
- Heavy-duty and easy to handle
- Easy to start and powerful
Cons
- Jams at time
- Poor customer service
- Poorly made
Patriot Products CSV-3100B Chipper Shredder for Composting
Last but not least, I have another machine by Patriot Products. It’s their CSV-3100V that’s perfect for big properties. It’s loaded with a Briggs & Stratton Vanguard Commercial Power motor.
The smooth and quiet motor enables this unit to make mulch in record time out of thick 3-inch diameter branches. Vegetative material and leaves can be dropped in the hopper for shredding.
Thanks to the large wheel, you can easily move this unit around your yard. The premium super low-tone muffler decreases noise and the low oil sensor decreases the change of motor damage.
The Patriot chipper ensures a safe and easy way to help clear material from your property. It makes easy work of feeding leaves into the hopper. The best part? It comes with a jumbo debris bag.
Meaning, you can shred more leaves before you need to empty the bag. With the wood chipper tow bar, you can move the chipper around behind a standard tractor, riding mower, or ATV.
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Patriot Products |
| Motor: | Briggs & Stratton Vanguard commercial power engine |
| Reduction ratio: | 8.1:1 |
| Warranty: | 3-year warranty |
| Wheels: | Large wheels |
Key Features:
- Safe and easy way to clear your property
- Strong Briggs & Stratton Vanguard commercial power engine
- Shredding leaves is a breeze with Patriot’s swinging y-hammer system
- The collection bag holds twice the volume of regular-size bags
- Can handle materials up to a 3-inch diameter
Pros
- Easy to put together
- A real workhorse of a unit
- A beast that easily chips/shreds anything that fits the receivers
- Simple and efficient design
- Powerful and versatile
Cons
- Tough pull start
- Better options available
- Underpowered
Buying Guide: Which Garden Shredder is the Best?
If you’re still doubting between two or more garden shredders, perhaps the following buying guide can help you make a smart buy. Let’s unpack the key traits you need to consider when shopping for the best chipper shredder for composting.
Engine Type
You can either choose a gas-powered or electric engine. Unless you have a large garden that needs a lot of trimming, an electric unit is all you need.
However, if you live on a larger estate and you’re tired of frequently visiting the dump with your waste, then consider a gas-powered chipper shredder for composting.
Electric units make less noise. They’re also more efficient. Gas-powered models, on the other hand, are handy on large properties, as they provide power and portability.
They also make quick work of large and time-consuming chores. The only disadvantage is the emissions. However, they last more than electric units.
Reduction Ratio
Different machines have different reduction ratios. They differ around 10:1–20:1, with 10:1 meaning the machine will decrease 10 bags of debris into just 1 bag.
The higher the reduction ratio, the faster the chipper shredder will work. If you deal with a lot of debris, opt for a chipper shredder with a higher reduction ratio.
Capacity
The capacity refers to the maximum diameter of limbs the machine can handle.
If you’re just searching for a unit to help to slice the occasional twig, then you will be fine with a lower capacity. If you have larger limbs, then consider a high-end machine with a bigger capacity.
The diameter includes any side twigs that fall off the main one. So, if you have a Y-shaped twig, crack it in half before feeding it to your unit. This is why capacity matters – it saves time and effort.
The larger the capacity, the less pre-processing of the twigs you will need to do!
Materials
Inform yourself of the materials your unit is compatible with before making a purchase. Check if leaves, palm fronds, and bamboo are materials the chipper shredder can handle with ease.
Most brands state their machines will effectively handle almost anything. Spoiler alert – this isn’t always the case. Read customer reviews and see what others have to say about the machine.
Hopper Design
The first thing to consider with hopper design is how broad the opening is. If it’s not very wide, then you will have to feed materials more slowly.
This could be time-consuming, annoying, and hard, especially if you have a lot of waste to get rid of. The second important thing is the position of the input chute.
The positioning will determine how easy it is to feed materials in, meaning less work for you. Some units will have multiple inputs, meaning, you can insert the material straight into the shredders that work best on it. This extends the life of all the blades.
Portability
If you have a larger property, opt for a portable and lightweight chipper shredder. Consider the weight, quality of the wheels, and the handle if you want to move your machine around a lot.
These 3 factors determine how portable the machine is. Another important thing to consider is whether you can attach a tow bar to the unit so you can pull it along behind a riding lawnmower.
Noise
Chipper shredders can be very noisy, so you should always wear hearing protection. The noise is a thing to consider if you have close neighbors or live in a suburban area.
Otherwise, you will end up with noise complaints. If you prefer something quieter, then consider electric units only. They’re quiet, eco-friendly, and need less maintenance.
FAQs
My Top Pick
Using a chipper shredder to dispose of waste is time-saving and economical.
The best chipper shredder for composting should be able to handle certain jobs and meet requirements. You can choose between gas-powered or electric chipper shredders for composting.
I prefer electric units because they’re eco-friendly, lightweight, and need less maintenance. For instance, Sun Joe CJ603E Electric Silent Wood Chipper Shredder is perfect for yard maintenance.
It’s loaded with a 15-Amp electric motor and reduces 21 bags of debris into a single bag. However, if you prefer a gas-powered chipper shredder, consider Landworks Super Heavy Duty Chipper Shredder.
Another smart option is renting various models to determine what you like before you spend your hard-earned money on purchasing one. The final decision depends on your budget and your needs.
Do you find this article helpful? What’s the best chipper shredder for composting in your opinion? Pass the valuable information to your social media friends, family, and fellow gardeners.
Also, don’t forget to share your questions and experiences in the comments.
