Stihl SHA 56 vs EGO Power+ LV5005

The EGO Power+ LV5005 is the stronger vacuum and mulcher: 500 CFM of blowing, a 16:1 mulch ratio and a six-blade metal impeller beat the Stihl SHA 56's 328 CFM and 10:1 plastic-based shredding. The Stihl is the lighter, quieter, simpler tool at 62 dB, and it runs on the Stihl AK battery line. Owners of the EGO praise how fast it clears leaves but call it heavy with the battery and bag, and say it does not replace a dedicated blower. Buy the EGO if leaf volume is your problem; buy the Stihl if weight, noise and simplicity matter more.

• Choose the Stihl SHA 56 if you want a light, quiet 2-in-1 blower and shredder vac for light seasonal cleanup and you already own Stihl AK batteries.
• Choose the EGO Power+ LV5005 if you face heavy leaf fall and want a powerful vacuum that mulches 16:1 and blows at 500 CFM, and you are fine with its weight.