The best garden shredder is the Bosch AXT 25 TC, which uses a 2,500 watt electric motor and durable blades for cutting through large amounts of garden debris. If you are on a tight budget, the AXT Rapid 2,200 is the best option.
Garden waste comes in several forms and some garden shredders may not be able to handle it all. We recommend choosing a shredder with a cutting capacity of at least 40 mm, which should prevent blockages and improve efficiency.
Table of Contents
Garden Shredder Comparison
| Garden Shredder | Motor | Cutting Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch Shredder AXT 25 TC | 2,500 Watts | 45 mm |
| Bosch Shredder AXT Rapid 2200 | 2,200 Watts | 40 mm |
| Dirty Pro Tools | 2,500 Watts | 40 mm |
| TACKLIFE PWS02A | 2,500 Watts | 40 mm |
| Einhell GH-KS 2440 | 2,000 Watts | 40 mm |
| Forest Master Petrol | 5.6 HP Petrol | 80 mm |
Along with the different methods of powering the shredder, the cutting mechanism also differs. Methods used for cutting waste include impact, roller and turbine cutters, which is a combination of the impact and roller mechanism.
Below is a list of the best garden shredders that use powerful petrol or electric motors for effortlessly cutting various garden debris and branches.
The Best Garden Shredder
1. Bosch AXT 25 TC Garden Shredder
Bosch are a reputable UK brand that produce multiple garden shredders and the AXT 25 TC is their flagship model. It uses a high torque 2,500W motor that effortlessly cuts through both soft and hard garden waste for composting.
To prevent the dreaded blockages that commonly occurs, this model uses a patented block release system. This allows blockages to be loosened without removing the hopper each and every time.
Other features of the Bosch AXT 25 TC include:
- High speed (4,100 RPM) cutting performance
- 53 litre collection box
- Maximum cutting capacity of 45 mm
- Space saving design
- Weighs 30.5 KG
- 230 KG/H material throughput
- Patented Turbine Cut System
The AXT 25 TC is the ultimate garden shredder that provides maximum cutting performance from the high torque motor. The main drawback is that it comes with a premium price tag and it’s also the heaviest electric model at 30.5 KG.
Check it Out
2. Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 Garden Shredder
Another garden shredder by Bosch is the AXT Rapid 2200, which is by far the most popular within this article. It’s the cheaper alternative to the AXT 25 TC with a smaller 2,200W PowerDrive motor for cutting soft wood and green debris.
In terms of its cutting capabilities, it uses laser-cut precision steel blades that effortlessly shred through garden waste with its 3,650 RPM high speed motor.
Other features Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 include:
- 2,200 watt electric motor
- No load speed of 3,650 RPM
- Material throughput of 90 KG/H
- 40 mm cutting capacity
- Large capacity hopper for easy feed
- Lightweight at 12 KG
- Includes a 2 year warranty
The Bosch AXT Rapid 2200 is the best garden shredder that combines value for money and performance. Unlike cheaper alternatives, this model is produced by a reputable brand that provides readily available spare parts and support.
Check it Out
3. Dirty Pro Tools Garden Shredder
The Dirty Pro Tools is an affordable garden shredder that uses a 2,500 watt motor with a cutting speed of 4,050 RPM. According to the brand, it’s suitable for shredding both green debris and twigs or branches up to 40 mm in diameter.
Included with the shredder is an integrated 50 litre collection box that’s compact and easy to store in the garden shed.
Other features of the Dirty Pro Tools Shredder include:
- Large wheels for easy manoeuvrability
- 6 metre power cable with safety cut out switch
- Weighs 15 KG
- Noise output of 98 dB
- Built-in safety devices
- Easy view of the bin when full
- Measures 95 x 55 x 38 cm in size
The Dirty Pro Tools shredder is an excellent all-round option that includes a collection box integrated into the design. It also features a high performance motor that offers far more performance when compared to similar priced alternatives.
Check it Out
4. TACKLIFE PWS02A Garden Shredder
The TACKLIFE PWS02A is a high powered garden shredder that’s ideal for cutting branches, bamboo, shrubs, soft plants and much more. The 2,500 electric motor and steel blade provides high cutting efficiency and won’t disappoint.
Other features of the TACKLIFE PWS02A include:
- 40 mm cutting capacity
- Weighs 21 KG
- No load speed of 2,950 RPM
- 20 litre collection box
- Double precision steel blades
- 105 dB noise output
- Constructed of a robust ABS plastic
- Easy to assemble
Compared to the Dirty Pro Tools alternative, it provides very similar performance but it’s slightly more expensive. However, the TACKLIFE PWS02A is built to a high standard and will effortlessly cut through a range of garden waste.
Check it Out
5. Einhell GH-KS 2440 Garden Shredder
If you require a cheap garden shredder that provides great performance, the Einhell GH-KS 2440 is the best option. It uses two turnable steel blades and is powered by a 2,000W electric motor.
Other features of the Einhell GH-KS 2440 include:
- 40 mm cutting diameter
- Swing down funnel
- Lightweight at 11.2 KG
- Quick opening for easy cleaning
- Practical handle for transportation
- Hook for securing garden rubbish bag
The Einhell GH-KS 2440 is an affordable option that’s lightweight, easy to transport and provides great cutting capacity. From tackling garden debris to light twigs, this garden shredder effortlessly cuts through it all for composting.
Check it Out
6. Forest Master Petrol Garden Shredder
For professionals or gardening enthusiasts with large gardens, this petrol powered garden shredder may be the best option. It uses a 5.6 horsepower 208 cc four stroke engine capable of 3 to 5 CM chipping capacity per hour.
Petrol garden shredders are renowned for being bulky and difficult to manoeuvre. However, this model has a compact design that has been designed to fit through a standard garden gate with ease.
Other features of the Forest Master Shredder include:
- 80 mm cutting diameter
- Twin reversible blades for powerful cutting
- Emergency stop brake
- Weighs 85 KG
- 1080 mm x 1700 mm x 580 mm in size
The Forest Master is the best petrol garden shredder on the market that provides great performance and is still relatively affordable. The 5.6 horsepower engine is powerful yet fuel efficient and ideal for hours of garden shredding.
Check it Out
Garden Shredder Buying Guide
Garden shredders are an essential tool for reducing large piles of garden debris ready for composting. They are available in a range of types that include petrol or electric powered motors that are suitable for a range of branch sizes.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding garden shredders.
Why Shred Garden Waste
Whether you are using a hedge trimmer to cut overgrown hedges, clearing dead leaves or other gardening, you will need to get rid of the waste. The best way of doing this is to use a garden shredder to cut the large debris is to hundreds of tiny pieces.
The benefit of the debris being far smaller is that they can be easily recycled as they take up less space in the bag. You can also reuse the trimmed waste within your compost or as insulation around the base or roots of other plants.
Electric vs Petrol Shredders
The majority of homeowners will be choosing an electric garden shredder due to the convenience it offers. The main drawback is that the cable length can restrict how portable the shredder is compared to the petrol alternative.
Petrol garden shredder units are more powerful and rugged, which is a requirement for gardeners or enthusiasts. However, they will require servicing and will cost far more than the electric alternatives.
Cutting Mechanism
There are three main types of cutting mechanisms used within garden shredders. These include impact, roller and turbine cutters that all offer different types of performance.
Impact Shredders
Usually the cheapest and nosiest type of garden shredder is the impact shredder. It uses a spinning blade mechanism that is capable of cutting debris is to very fine pieces. However, it is only suited to soft garden waste and may need a replacement blades after 1 or 2 years of regular usage.
Roller Shredders
With the use of rigid rollers, the roller garden shredder will quietly crush and cut most garden debris. It is able to pull the waste through the machine, which makes it easier to use but it is more prone to becoming blocked by certain materials. The main drawback compared to the impact type of shredder is that they can be more expensive and heavier.
Turbine Shredders
The best type of garden shredder is the turbine shredder, which combines the impact and roller cutting qualities. The only main drawback is that they often cost far more than the alternatives but it’s a worthwhile investment.
Performance
The performance of a shredder will determine upon the torque and speed the motor is able to deliver. The higher torque and the faster the blades or rollers spin will result in faster debris cutting.
Cutting Capacity
The cutting capacity of a garden shredder refers to the maximum branch diameter that it can cut. This metric only refers to cut wood and not dead leaves or other green garden debris. The majority of high performing shredders will easily cut 40 mm and above.
Portable Design
Most garden shredders will be transported around the garden and elsewhere, which means it needs to be easily portable. An easy to grip carrying handle and wheels that can roll easily on all terrains are essential design features.
Many of the high performing garden shredders will also weigh over 20 KG, which may be difficult for some people to move. Another factor to consider are the dimensions as it must be able to pass through garden gates or manoeuvre around patios.
Types of Garden Waste
Every garden shredder is designed for grass, leaves and soft or medium wood. You cannot place any rocks, cement or bricks into the shredder because it will damage the cutting mechanism. It is advised not to put any soil or damp grass into the shredder because it can clog the blades or rollers.
Collection Box
In order to collect all the cut garden debris, you will require a collection box or bag at the bottom of the shredder. These are either optional extras or integrated into the design of the garden shredder. As with a lawn mower, you will not want it to fill up too quickly but you don’t want it to be bulky too.
If you are on a budget, you technically don’t require it as you can simply place a rubbish bag or container at the bottom.
Conclusion
Garden shredders are an essential gardening tool for cutting down garden debris, twigs and small branches. They are available with electric and petrol powered motors that spin the sharpened blades for shredding.
All of the recommendations are suited to a range of budgets, which include both petrol and electric garden motors. Depending upon the types of garden debris you plan to shred will determine the type of shredder that you will require.
