Which is better for heavy wet leaves?

The Stihl. Its 912 CFM, 239 MPH and 41 N of force move wet, matted leaves that a 510 CFM blower struggles with.

Is the Stihl worth the extra money?

If you clear large properties or work commercially, yes: you get about 400 more CFM, a side-start and a 4-MIX engine. For routine home cleanup, the Echo at $349.99 covers it for less.

The Echo at 70 dB versus 78 dB for the Stihl. Both are gas backpack blowers, so wear hearing protection either way.

Which is easier to restart mid-job?

The Stihl. Its side-start system lets you restart while still wearing the blower; with the Echo you take it off to pull the cord.

Can I buy the Stihl in California?

No. The BR 800 C-E Magnum is not available for purchase or delivery in California.

Both are professional-grade. The Stihl's 4-MIX engine and anti-vibration build suit daily commercial use; the Echo's pleated automotive-style filter and metal lower-pipe ring are built for long engine life.

Echo PB-580T Backpack Leaf Blower vs Stihl BR 800 C-E Magnum Backpack Leaf Blower

Buy the Stihl BR 800 C-E Magnum if you clear heavy leaves, clippings or hedge trimmings over large properties and want the most blowing force. Buy the Echo PB-580T if you want a lighter, quieter, cheaper pro-grade backpack blower for routine yard and job-site cleanup. The Stihl's best new price is $699.00 at P&P Small Engines as of November 5, 2026, against $349.99 at Russo Power Equipment for the Echo as of November 5, 2026.

Today the Echo PB-580T Backpack Leaf Blower costs $349.01 less at its best price.

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