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Echo PB-265L

*Est. $260

Reviewed

September 2011

Pros

Powerful but quiet
Variable-speed throttle, cruise control
Lightweight
Electronic ignition
Five-year warranty

Cons

Two-cycle gas engine pollutes
Heavier than some models
Doesn't vacuum

Where to Buy

for $239.98

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Reviews recommend this midpriced backpack blower for homeowners with big yards (and lots of leaves). Note that, in general, a backpack blower is overkill for average-sized driveways and decks, and these blowers certainly cost more. Rated at 65 decibels, the Echo PB-265L is the quietest gasoline backpack blower in its price range. It weighs 13.3 pounds and is rated at 135 mph, with an average air volume of 355 cubic feet per minute (CFM). Reviews say it starts easily and handles well. If you want to spend less for more power and use the blower for shorter periods, you may want to consider the Husqvarna 125B handheld gas blower (*Est. $150) , though it is louder.

We found the best professional review of the Echo PB-265L at Bestcovery.com, where it's named the second-best gas leaf blower overall. It is not clear that any testing was done, however. A detailed single-product review at ConsumerGuide.com covers a similar, recently discontinued model, and a few owners review the Echo PB-265L at HomeDepot.com.

Where To Buy

Troy-Bilt TB4BP 32cc 4-Stroke Gas Powered 150 MPH Back Pack Blower

(47 reviews)
Buy new: $219.00 7 New from $219.00

In Stock.

Our Sources

1. Bestcovery.com

This brief review explains why editors picked the PB-265LC (the CARB-certified version of the 265L, meaning it meets California emissions standards) as the second-best gas leaf blower. Reviewer Rich "the Tool Man" discusses its features, and then concludes by writing, "At 65 decibels, this is a really good unit for use where noise is an issue. The location of the controls and the see-through fuel tank make it an easy unit to work with."

Review: Echo PB-265LC Gas Leaf Blower, "Rich the Tool Man"

2. ConsumerGuide.com

This review covers the Echo PB-265L's predecessor, the PB-260L, but specifications are very similar. The PB-260L earns top marks for performance. Editors say it's easy to start and very quiet for a gas blower, with little vibration.

Review: Expert Review: Echo ProLite PB-260L, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, June 5, 2008

3. HomeDepot.com

Owners rate and review the Echo PB-265L here. There are not that many reviews -- about 20 -- but users give the PB-265L an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5. Most comments are positive, though a couple of lawn-care professionals say this model is not powerful enough to meet their needs.

Review: Echo Gas Inc 135 mph/355 CFM Gas Blower, Contributors to HomeDepot.com

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