WHICH CORDED ELECTRIC TILLER ARE BEST?
Proper tools are required to create a well-manicured lawn and beautiful garden. A tiller is employed to break up soil and grass for planting, helping to keep your soil healthy by allowing for the movement of air, water, and nutrients. Electric lawncare machines are excellent for those with small or medium spaces, and the machines are easy to wield, store, and maintain. What’s more, corded options save you from having to charge and maintain batteries.
Our guide explains how corded electric tillers operate and details the ways to find the best one for your outdoor needs. At the end, you’ll find a few reviews of our favorites.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A CORDED ELECTRIC TILLER
Power
Most electric tillers are measured in amps, from as few as 3 amps to as many as 12 or 13. Note that while increased power helps with more troublesome soil, it also creates a heavier machine that’s more difficult to control. Match the power with the size and nature of the job.
Tines
The tines are the important metal forks that do all the literal dirty work. Note the following:
- Number: Tines come in pairs, and more pairs allow for heavier-duty work but also require more maintenance and bring on more weight. Tillers with two pairs occupy a welcome balance of maneuverability, heft, and effectiveness and are most common.
- Width: Machines where the width of the tines can be toggled as a unit provide versatility. Expanding the coverage is beneficial when tackling large chunks of land, while narrowing the focus is useful when navigating flowerbeds.
- Thickness: Generally, thicker tines are better, offering more durability and longevity. Thin tines may wear down more quickly over time, especially if you’re not careful where you’re using the machine.
- Shape: Most tines are straight, making it easy to break through ground and get deep. However, curved tines are great for cultivation and maintaining the soil once ground is broken. Some models employ different shapes to tackle various tasks.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN QUALITY CORDED ELECTRIC TILLERS
Depth
The downward reach of the tines varies on models, with some as shallow as a few inches and other large tillers obtaining depths of eight inches or more. The type of plants you’re growing helps determine how deep you want to go.
Components
Tillers may feature several components that can affect how easy or hard the machine is to use. Shields protect you from dirt and debris and may be plastic or made of something more durable. Some have handles that fold to aid in storage or feature comfortable grips. Certain models have clips to help corral and extend the cord, while most models include wheels to assist in movement.
Price
Most corded electric tillers run from around $100 to $150. This range gives you options in terms of size, power, and depth. Generally, price increases with power.
CORDED ELECTRIC TILLERS FAQ
Q. Are corded electric tillers safe to use?
A. Anytime you’re using a lawn care machine, it’s important to wear appropriate attire to protect your eyes, hands, and feet from dirt, dust, and debris. Always make sure the machine is off when clearing soil from the tines. Use only outdoor extension cords, and refrain from connecting more than one, as that can drop the power and hurt the motor. Also, stay hydrated and safe from the sun.
Q. Are electric tillers better than gas-powered ones?
A. Electric tillers use a more sustainable power source and are generally lighter in weight and smaller in size than gas-powered options. They contribute less noise and air pollution, and require little maintenance. They are best for small and medium-sized lawns as they don’t possess the higher power of gas machines.
WHAT ARE THE BEST CORDED ELECTRIC TILLERS TO BUY?
Top corded electric tiller
Earthwise TC70016 16-Inch 13.5-Amp Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator
What you need to know: This feature-packed tiller can break through really tough dirt.
What you’ll love: It works really quickly and can get lots of depth. It’s also small and really easy to move. For the price that you pay, you get a lot of features.
What you should consider: It has a hard time tilling land with lots of vines.
Top corded electric tiller for the money
Greenworks 8-Amp Corded Tiller
What you need to know: This potent, versatile tiller is simple to assemble, use, maintain and store.
What you’ll love: It features adjustable tine width and four durable tines, achieving a depth of five inches. The handle folds for convenient storage.
What you should consider: It doesn’t reach depths other tillers of this power can.
Worth checking out
LawnMaster TE1016M Electric Tiller 10-Amp, 16-Inch
What you need to know: If you need a powerful tiller for commercial work, this is the tiller for you.
What you’ll love: You can adjust the tiller height, and it’s vibration-resistant.
What you should consider: It’s lightweight, but it can hop on hard surfaces.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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