Looking for an easy way to create mulch from your garden cuttings? We will guide you through the benefits of garden shredders, what to look for when investing in one, and review some of the leading options for the best garden shredder and the best garden chipper. Many are versatile and do both shredding and chipping.
Our TOP Garden Shredders for Chipping Wood & Leaves
- Our TOP Garden Shredders for Chipping Wood & Leaves
Bosch Garden Shredder AXT 25 TC
Ryobi RSH3045U 3000W Silent Impact Shredder
Einhell GC-KS 2540 Electric Garden
Cobra QS2500 2500W Quiet Electric Garden Shredder
LawnMaster 2800W Quiet Garden Shredder
Bosch Garden Shredder AXT Rapid 2200
Makita UD2500/2 Electric Shredder 2500W
Forest Master Compact FM6DD-MUL 6HP Petrol Wood Chipper Shredder MulcherBest Garden Shredders to Buy
Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 Garden Shredder - Scheppach GS55 2400W Electric Garden Shredder
- Hyundai 2400W Electric Garden Shredder
- Cobra QS2500 2500W Quiet Electric Garden Shredder
- LawnMaster 2800W Quiet Garden Shredder
- Makita UD2500/2 Electric Shredder
- Pros:
Reverse feature
Massive collection box
Easy to move
User-friendlyCons:
Despite the reverse feature, blockages on larger branches could be an issue
Forest Master Compact FM6DD-MUL 6HP Petrol Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher
Best Garden Shredders to Buy
Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 Garden Shredder
Key Features:
- Motor: 2200W
- Cut capacity: Branches up to 40mm
- Blade: Laser-cut, reversible
- Feature: OptiCut speed control
For fast shredding of mixed garden waste, the Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 is a proven choice. The Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 is a fast blade shredder for mixed green and woody garden waste. The Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 cuts branches up to 40mm with a reversible laser-cut blade, and OptiCut speed control helps it work through awkward loads without stopping. Blade shredders are quicker than quiet roller shredders, but louder.
Pros:
- Fast shredding
- Reversible blade
- Handles green and woody waste
Cons:
- Louder than a quiet roller shredder
Scheppach GS55 2400W Electric Garden Shredder
Key Features:
- Motor: 2400W, 4200rpm
- Cut capacity: Branches up to 45mm
- Collection: Two 45L bags
- Cable: 10m
- Wheels: 175mm
For big clear-ups, the Scheppach comes with two collection bags. The Scheppach GS55 is a 2400W blade shredder with two 45L collection bags. The Scheppach GS55 handles branches up to 45mm using two reversible blades on a 180mm cutting disc. Chippings drop straight into the bag underneath, which keeps the work area tidy. Large wheels and a 10m cable make it easy to move around the garden.
Pros:
- Two 45L bags included
- Handles 45mm branches
- Reversible blades
Cons:
- Blade shredders are noisy
Hyundai 2400W Electric Garden Shredder
Key Features:
- Motor: 2400W, 4200rpm
- Cut capacity: Branches up to 4.5cm
- Weight: 10.3kg
- Cable: 10m
- Collection: Detachable bag
For a light shredder that is easy to move, the Hyundai is great value. The Hyundai 2400W shredder is a light, wheeled blade shredder for everyday garden waste. At 10.3kg the Hyundai 2400W shredder is easy to move around, and it chips wood up to 4.5cm. A detachable collection bag catches the chippings, and a push stick keeps your hands away from the blades. It has over 600 Amazon ratings.
Pros:
- Light at 10.3kg
- Push stick included
- Well reviewed
Cons:
- Noisy like all blade shredders
Cobra QS2500 2500W Quiet Electric Garden Shredder
Key features:
- Power source: Corded electric
- Power: 2500W
- Collection: 50L
- Weight: 26.9kg
This garden chipper shredder is highly versatile and will shred green matter as well as branches up to 40mm. It features an auto-feed and a handy reverse feature. This makes it simple to remove any blockages that may occur.
The collection box is a decent 50L and is transparent so you can see when it is getting full.
The Cobra shredder makes use of drum technology which isn’t only effective but helps to reduce noise output, a common issue with some other models. This is all powered by a 2500W motor. It is an efficient system that works quickly. The position of the anvil can be adjusted simply in order to improve effectiveness.
Two sturdy wheels make it easy to move and it comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros:
- Quiet
- Reverse feature to clear blockages
- Wheels
Cons:
- Battles a bit with very large branches
LawnMaster 2800W Quiet Garden Shredder
Key features:
- Power source: Corded electric
- Power: 2800W
- Collection: 60L
- Weight: 24kg
Another powerful yet quiet garden shredder is this 2800W model from LawnMaster. The secret to the low noise is the drum design that has outstanding power yet only spins at 45RMP. The LawnMaster also has T-Drive torque making it even more effective. It can handle branches up to 42mm.
This shredder is designed for mobility and has large wheels making it easy to move. The build quality is good and robust materials have been used so you can expect decent durability.
LawnMaster also added some excellent safety features such as an interlock switch that ensure the machine does not start when the hopper or collection box is open, as well as overload protection. A handy feeding stick is used to push the material into the hopper.
The LawnMaster is versatile and can be used for branches, woody growth, and green vegetation and clippings. It has a massive 60L collection box
Pros:
- Quality safety features
- Durable design and build
- Easy to move
- Versatile
- Generous collection box
- Quiet
Cons:
- Cable length only 3m
Makita UD2500/2 Electric Shredder
Key features:
- Power source: Corded electric
- Power: 2500W
- Collection: 67L
- Weight: 27.6kg
Makita has a reputation for affordable and reliable equipment, the UD2500/2 is no exception. It is happy to shred green garden waste, twigs and leaves, as well as branches up to 45mm. It makes a fantastic garden leaf shredder.
While this is a relatively basic machine, it is reliable and built for effectiveness. It uses the cut-and-crush design which is effective and efficient. It also offers decent value for money.
What is a pleasure is the fantastic 67L collection box. This saves time and effort and it’s easy to view the capacity of the box which adds to the convenience.
The reverse feature makes the occasional blockage a breeze to rectify. It is a comfortable machine to operate and as a safety feature, it has an automatic anti-block system.
Pros:
- Reverse feature
- Massive collection box
- Easy to move
- User-friendly
Cons:
- Despite the reverse feature, blockages on larger branches could be an issue
Forest Master Compact FM6DD-MUL 6HP Petrol Wood Chipper Shredder Mulcher
Key features:
- Power source: Petrol
- Power: 4 stroke 208cc
- Collection: n/a
- Weight: 42kg
Forest Master has achieved a fantastic combo garden shredder and chipper. If your needs require power and performance, this one is for you. Although it has awesome strength and ability, it is still compact and portable.
It does not shy away from branches up to 50mm, much more than most competitors in this range. In combination, it is still effective and efficient with green or other garden waste. What a pleasure! This makes the machine highly versatile.
The power is exceptional thanks to a 4-stroke 6 hp 208cc engine. It is a drum shredder with an impressive 3600 rpm. The design does not disappoint and gets the job done with speed and efficiency. An added bonus is that, despite the power, it is still relatively quiet.
The reversible blades reduce the risk and improve the correction of any blockages. There is not much you can deliver to this machine that it will not deal will effectively. As an added advantage, it has large robust wheels that will get you through the rough spots in your garden.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Extremely versatile
- Good customer service
Cons:
- Not ideal for green or wet materials
- Can clog with certain garden waste
How to Buy the Best Garden Shredders for Chipping Wood & Leaves
Power
Depending on the volume and size of the vegetation you want to shred or chip, power is a critical factor. For smaller gardens, you might not need much power. If you want to shred large branches or vast amounts of garden waste then it is best to go for one with more power.
Blade quality
Better blades make for better shredding. This applies to the effectiveness, speed and quality of the resulting material. As with power, if you want to shred large quantities or thicker material, you will want to ensure that the blades are up to the job.
The combination of the power and blade quality will determine the cut diameter.
Reversible blades
While not essential, reversible blades make the occasional blockage easier to clear.
Collection box
A larger collection box will save time and effort. It is even better if the box is transparent and allows you to see when it is nearly full.
Safety
Shredders and chippers can be dangerous when used incorrectly. One thing to look out for is a sturdy plunger. This will allow for fast and efficient use without compromising on safety. Other features that improve safety are overload protection and a lock system that ensures the blades do not operate when the machine is open.
Size and weight
You will most likely want to move your garden shredder around with you as you work. This makes the size and weight important. Some of the light compact models are highly effective. Wheels are also useful and make the shredder easier to move.
Another factor to consider is that you need to store it when not in use so a bulky model might not be suitable in some gardens.
Noise
You do not want to disturb the family or the neighbours when using your garden shredder. Some designs and models can be particularly loud while others make very little noise as they go about their job.
Price
For most people, budget is always a consideration. While you do not want to buy a cheap and nasty model that will not get the job done and will likely not last too long, you don’t have to spend a fortune. There are some highly affordable models that are built to last and perform well.
Warranty
A good warranty is a sure sign that the manufacturer has faith in the build quality and materials used on the garden shredder chipper. Also, take a look at the reputation of the brand. While there are some great new brands, the more established brands generally offer good aftersales service.
Garden shredder design
Not all garden shredders work in the same way.
- Impact garden shredder
Impact or rapid shredders make use of blades to chop up the material fed into them. They are versatile although soft vegetation sometimes sticks to the blades. They are easy to use and generally affordable. They do tend to be somewhat noisy.
- Roller shredders
These use a spinning drum and crush the material. They are much quieter but do not like wet material. They tend to be a bit more expensive but they are fast and effective.
Electric or Petrol Garden Shredders
- Electric garden shredders
Most home users are more than happy with an electric shredder. They are affordable, a breeze to maintain and easy to operate. They’re also light and compact making them easier to move around and store.
- Petrol garden shredders
While petrol shredders are more powerful, they tend to be expensive and noisy and the running and maintenance costs are higher. They tend to be used in very large gardens or for commercial use. You can also get diesel shredders. Similarly expensive and noisy, they are generally only used in large commercial projects.
- Cordless garden shredder
You can purchase a cordless garden shredder but they tend to lack power and only operate for a short period of time. For occasional use in a small garden, it might be an option to look at. Do not expect to cut a large volume of material or larger branches with a battery-powered garden shredder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Chipper and a Shredder?
A garden shredder and a chipper are different in that a shredder is designed for leaves and small debris while a chipper can deal with larger branches. The blades and design make them different. Some models combine both functions and can be used for shredding and chipping.
Can You Put Compost Through a Shredder?
Garden shredders are excellent for making compost from your garden waste. They will produce fine clippings that will break down into free organic compost. There would be no point in putting compost through a shredder but they can be used to make composted material.
What Should You Not Put in a Shredder?
You want to avoid putting spicy foods, sauces, meat and bones, dairy products and citrus fruit in the shredder. Also, you should not put poison ivy, glossy paper, metal, plastic or fibrous materials in the machine.
What Are the Advantages of a Garden Shredder?
While you might not need to use a garden shredder every time you do a spot of gardening, they come in very handy. Taking your waste to the tip is a pain and costs money. It also takes time. Shredding your waste will eliminate this problem.
Burying garden waste is frowned upon and not the most environmentally friendly option. In many areas, it is not allowed. It also means waiting for the vegetation to dry as green material will not burn well.
The other major advantage is that you can easily make “free” compost with the material from your shredder. A garden mulcher shredder will supply nutrients to the soil and enrich your garden. Your plants will thank you for it. It is easy to make, effectively free, and environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
There is little doubt that a garden shredder is a handy machine to have. Most people that have invested in a shredder will attest to this. Consider the size of your garden and the materials you intend to shred. A shredder will save you time and effort and can also save you money by making your own compost or not paying to have waste removed.
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Charl is a full-time writer with a range of passions and expertise in lawn mowers and other garden power tools. After many years in the corporate rat race, he decided to follow these passions. When not writing, Charl can be found in his garden, tending to or propagating plants, keeping the lawn near perfect, and enjoying the outdoors with his dogs. He is also fascinated by emerging technology and tries to squeeze in a round of golf as often as possible.
