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Cleaning indoor and outdoor surfaces by manual effort has become a thing of the past – thanks to the arrival of pressure washers. Life has become a lot easier for those who prefer regular cleaning without wasting their time and energy.
However, most users face the problem of choice when it comes to choosing the best pressure washer. The choice of a pressure washer is anything but not easy.
Every user wants to invest in one of the best pressure washers available in the market, and this is what constitutes the major part of the problem of choice. Apart from an overwhelming choice of pressure washing units, it is also a little tricky to find a unit that encompasses all features.
To help our users in choosing the best budget pressure washer with all the features, we carried out extensive research on the internet. Based on our research, we found the best overall pressure washer and the ones that give it a close competition.
Read on to find out our best-rated power washer among the list of items we have compiled. Also, know the key considerations to bear in mind while choosing a pressure washer in the buying guide below.
Choosing the Right Pressure Washer
Every buyer wants the best pressure washer within their budget. While the budget plays an important role in purchasing a pressure washing unit, you also need to consider several other factors to make an informed purchase decision.
When choosing your pressure washer machine, make sure that you pay attention to the following aspects:
Gas vs. Electric
Pressure washers operate on both gas and electricity. As a buyer, it is up to you to decide which one you wish to buy. If you aren’t sure which one to go for, asking a couple of questions will solve the problem for you.
The first thing you need to consider is the area of cleaning. A lot depends on whether you have a large or small area for cleaning. Electric-powered pressure washers are suitable for cleaning smaller areas & idle for home cleaning needs.
The other thing you need to decide is if you are okay with the noise of a pressure washer. Electric-powered units have a lower capacity than the units that run on gas. However, they produce lesser noise.
On the other hand, gas-powered pressure washer units are meant for larger cleaning areas such as driveways, homes, decks, etc. These units produce more sound compared to electric units.
Another thing worth considering while choosing between these two units is if you can afford enough time to clean a pressure washer. Gas-powered electric pressure washers need more cleaning than the ones that use electricity. If you go for a gasoline pressure washer, make sure you have enough time to clean it daily so that you can keep it up and running for frequent use.
Hot water vs. Cold water
The use of fuel aside, pressure washers also vary in terms of using hot or cold water. Some pressure washers use hot water, whereas others use cold water for cleaning purposes. Both have their own sets of advantages and downsides. Cold water-based pressure washers are more common in stores than the ones that rely on hot water for cleaning.
Hot water-based pressure washers sanitize and clean more easily. Another advantage of this kind of pressure washer is that it does the job of cleaning much faster and with little soap. However, these pressure washers are hard to carry. Thus, it is not the right option if you are looking for a pressure washer unit that you can carry from one place to the other. They are suitable for cleaning larger surfaces.
Cold water-based pressure washers, depend on pressure for cleaning the exterior surfaces. They’re generally slower than the hot-water variants. However, these units come across with the advantage of portability. You can carry these units from place to place without any hassle.
Warranty
Warranty is one of the most important aspects to consider while shopping for a reliable pressure washer. Because these items cost a hefty amount of money, you may want to make sure you put your money on a unit that lasts for a long time. One of the best ways to ensure it is to check the warranty of a pressure washer before finalizing your decision to buy it.
Check if the warranty covers both the pump and the engine. These are the vital components of a pressure washer and are more prone to damage. As long as your unit is under the warranty period, you do not need to worry about spending an additional amount of money on repairs. This saves you money in the long run.
Power
Pounds per square (PSI) and gallons per minute (GPM) are the two crucial aspects of the performance of a pressure washer. When multiplied by one another, they give out the cleaning units of a pressure washer.
If you are not sure which pressure washer to choose between two units, consider the CU of each. The one with more cleaning units makes for a better pressure washer in terms of performance.
Portability
No one wants a unit that is not easy to move from one place to the other. A pressure washer that is easy to wheel around is also more useful in cleaning a larger area. One of the major advantages of buying such a unit is that you will not feel exhausted within a shorter duration.
As a result, you will be able to prolong your cleaning session and make it more productive. Make sure you buy a unit that you can move in a hassle-free way for better cleaning results.
Best Pressure Washer Reviews
| Pressure Washer | Pressure Washer Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Best Overall Pressure Washer: Sun Joe SPX3000 |
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  | Best Gas Pressure Washer: Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot |
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  | Best Electric Pressure Washer: AR Annovi Reverberi AR390SS |
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  | Best Pressure Washer for Car: Karcher K5 Premium |
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  | Best Portable Pressure Washer: Stanley SHP2150 |
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  | Best Lightweight Pressure Washer: Greenworks 1500 |
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  | Best Wall Mount Pressure Washer: Cam Spray 2000WM/SSM3 Deluxe |
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  | Best Pressure Washer for Limited Budget: Stanley SHP1600 |
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Best Overall Pressure Washer: Sun Joe SPX3000
With a power of 2030 PSI at 1.76 GMP, Sun Joe SPX3000 occupies the top spot among the existing list of top-rated pressure washers. Its excellent cleaning power makes it the right kind of pressure washer to carry out different cleaning tasks on multiple surfaces. Apart from cleaning the exterior of vehicles such as cars and trucks, you can also remove dirt from the surface of lawn equipment, and even decks and driveways.
It has two removable detergent tanks that come along with the package. Both the tanks can hold a liquid detergent of 0.9L. You can prepare and carry different kinds of detergents in these tanks with which you can clean a wide range of surfaces.
Besides, the pressure washer also comes with a total stop system (TSS). It gives your pump a break when it is not in operational mode. This way, it not only prevents the excess consumption of power but also maximizes the lifecycle of the pump.
The pressure washer also has a 34-inch extension and a spray wand. Together, these components provide easy maneuverability and access to those areas that are difficult to reach.
Unlike other pressure washers, this unit is easy to wheel from one place to the other. It has wheels using which you can move it around without a lot of effort. Even as you perform heavy cleaning tasks, this feature won’t tire you down.
No doubt, the lightweight pressure washer fits the bill with a wide range of features. However, it is not above the shortcomings.
It is not the type of unit which will let you get started straight away as soon as you take it out from the package. You may need to spend a considerable time to assemble its various components to get it ready for use.
Another aspect that you may want to consider as a buyer is that it involves hard plastic parts. While these parts are sturdy enough to last long, you need to handle the machine with care. Even a slight carelessness can expose its components to the risk of damage.
Specifications
| Weight | 31 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 inches |
| Pressure | 2030 PSI |
| GPM | 1.76 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 3572 units |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
Pros
- High pressure output
- Unique detergent selection
- Large wheels for easy movement
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Not easy to assemble
- Involves plastic parts
Best Gas Pressure Washer: Simpson MegaShot MSH3125
Simpson MSH3125 brings the rare combination of powerful performance and simplicity at the disposal of buyers. It involves a powerful Honda GC190 engine.
The product is versatile. If you have a big home or an area next to it that needs cleaning more often, you can rely on this unit. It is the best home pressure washer that runs on gas and has impressive cleaning units.
It has wheels and maneuverable design. As such, you do not need to worry about lifting the whole unit. The wheels attached to it will help you move the unit from one place to the other in a hassle-free way while moving it along the slopes. Plus, it is also lightweight.
Its high pressure output gives it the impressive power to eliminate all kinds of dirt, including stubborn stains. Also, for thick layers, the pressure washer is the ideal unit. Coupled with a high-pressure output, it also has a strong water flow which helps users in stripping up all kinds of dirt.
You do not need to worry about not being able to reach out to the difficult angles. This is precisely what makes this unit the best gas powered pressure washer. Its spray gun helps you reach out to difficult angles and even smaller places. Plus, its arrangement means that you do not need to put up the extra effort to set it up.
However, it does not come with a detergent tank. Plus, you may have a problem in adjusting pressure on softer surfaces. It is tailor-made for removing dirt on harder surfaces.
Specifications
| Weight | 65 pounds |
| Dimensions | 34.75 x 21 x 23.25 inches |
| Pressure | 3200 PSI |
| GPM | 2.5 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 8000 units |
| Hose Length | 25 feet |
Pros
- Power-packed engine and performance
- Strong water flow
- Multiple nozzles for great space angles
- Spray gun for easy reach to difficult angles
Cons
- Lacks a detergent tank
- Difficult to reduce PSI on soft surfaces
Read More: 10 Best Gas Pressure Washers
Best Electric Pressure Washer: AR Annovi Reverberi AR390SS
For those who wonder who makes the best pressure washer, Annovi Reverberi is the answer.
Touted to be the best pressure washer brand in Italy and across the globe, it has been rolling out pressure washer units of the highest quality for the last 60 years. AR Blue Clean AR390SS is the latest addition to the existing range of its products.
According to the claims of its manufacturer, it is one of the top pressure washers for performing medium to heavy tasks. While it performs the medium cleaning tasks with ease, it does not conquer the tougher stains for harder tasks in such a simple and easy way.
Being an electric-powered unit, it is simple and easy to use. All you need to do is plug it to the outlet, and then fit the high pressure hose and the trigger gun. Once you do it, then you can start using it in just 3 minutes.
For performing the cleaning task in the best possible manner, it comes with a 30-foot long pressure hose and a detergent tank with a hose adapter that is easy to connect.
With this unit, you can clean a wide range of surfaces. These include decks, windows, stairs, bicycles, heavy machinery, cleaning patio furniture, and so on. You can remove moss, grime, mud, dirt, and dust from these surfaces without much effort.
It has durable wheels for the easy movement of the pressure washer. Thus, you can move it from one place to the other without being worried.
The total stop system of this pressure washing machine is responsible for enhancing the lifespan of the pump. It means you can use this machine for a longer time without being worried about fixing the technical issues in the pump.
The pressure washer is a little bulky. The presence of the wheel cancels out the effect of this downside by allowing easy movement.
Some parts of the machine are also made of plastic. Those parts are vulnerable to developing wear and tear over time.
Specifications
| Weight | 35.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16 x 38 x 17 inches |
| Pressure | 2000 PSI |
| GPM | 1.4 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 2800 units |
| Hose Length | 30 feet |
Pros
- Total stop system for prolonged pump life
- Comes with several accessories
- Convenient to use
Cons
- Involves certain parts made from plastic
- Vulnerable to damage due to less durable material
Best Pressure Washer for Car: Karcher K5 Premium
This best value pressure washer is ideal for cleaning different outdoor surfaces. It is ideal for those who want a powerful performance without being worried about using manual effort. Apart from a 25 feet hose, it also comes with a hose reel which makes it easy to store.
One of the features that make it a valuable asset to its owner for outdoor cleaning is its wheels. Due to this feature, one can move the cleaning machine from one place without any problem. If you have a large space to clean, you can rest assured and use the unit with a free mind. It will not tire you even as you spend a longer duration of time in outdoor cleaning.
Also, it is equally useful for cleaning car surfaces. It possesses the requisite cleaning power using which you can remove the dirt and dust from the surface of cars. To further help this cause, it has a water-cooled motor and the ideal kind spray. Together, they make a combination that is ideal for moderate cleaning, which is necessary for cleaning the exterior surfaces of cars and trucks.
The next thing which makes it a valuable purchase is its induction motor. Based on the noiseless output technology, it consumes lesser power than most electric pressure washer units available in the market. What’s more, it comes with a prolonged lifespan which makes the product durable.
It has a durable frame. The durable construction of the cleaning machine also makes it ideal for use in all weather conditions. Regardless of the weather conditions in which you use it, you can always expect the unit to meet your performance-related expectations. As a result, you can also call it the best solution for cleaning a variety of surfaces throughout the year.
However, it is heavy. If you prefer a lighter unit, this is one of the important factors you need to consider. The options to adjust PSI and power also play a decisive role in the purchase decision as these options help you achieve the desired level of output.
Specifications
| Weight | 32 pounds |
| Dimensions | 34.33 x 13.07 x 16.77 inches |
| Pressure | 2000 PSI |
| GPM | 1.4 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 2800 units |
| Hose Length | 25 feet |
Pros
- Durable construction
- Powerful output
- Ideal for cleaning a wide range of surfaces
- On-board detergent tank
Cons
- Heavier than other pressure washers
- Does not have a simple system for adjusting PSI and power
Read More: 10 Best Car Cleaning Pressure Washers
Best Portable Pressure Washer: Stanley SHP2150
Stanley SHP2150 Electric Pressure Washer is a specially designed pressure washer for powerful outdoor cleaning. It comes across with a high pressure foamer. It produces 2X pressure for removing tough stains effortlessly.
Its powerful cleaning output makes it one of the best products for outdoor cleaning. Due to this feature, most users use this electric pressure cleaning machine for cleaning various surfaces like exterior surfaces of vehicles, outdoor furniture, pools, pavement, garbage cans, ATV, garbage, and more. You can use this cleaning machine to blast a thick layer of soap on all kinds of external surfaces.
One of the considerable positives of this product is its portability. It has powerful wheels which makes it simple for users to move the unit from place to place without any difficulty. Also, it is compact. Thus, you can store this powerful machine in limited space without any hassle.
Besides, it gives you the much needed break from the usual maintenance-related concerns. The maintenance kit which comes with the unit is useful in this regard. These features have yielded the pressure washing machine one of the best pressure washer ratings in several reviews.
While the unit comes with a host of attachments such as the pressure washer wand and gun, but it lacks the automatic system to adjust the pressure. Unless you are experienced in using electric pressure washers, you may find it hard to operate this unit for desirable results.
Its advantageous nozzles can prove to be a disadvantage if you move them too frequently. It can affect your performance-related output and slow you down.
Specifications
| Weight | 25.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.57 x 13.58 x 26.77 inches |
| Pressure | 2150 PSI |
| GPM | 1.4 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 3010 units |
| Hose Length | 25 feet |
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Portable and compact
- Maintenance kit for an increased lifespan
Cons
- Does not have a ready-made system to adjust the pressure
- Shifting of nozzles slows down the performance output
Read More: 10 Best Portable Pressure Washers
Read More: 10 Best Cordless Pressure Washers
Best Lightweight Pressure Washer: Greenworks 1500
What is the best pressure washer for performing simple cleaning tasks without doing a lot of grinding for moving it from one place to the other? Greenworks 1500 is the answer to this question. Weighing just 16.27 pounds, it is one of the most lightweight electric pressure washers available in the market.
If you have been a user of a gas powered pressure washer, then the performance output of this one may not be impressive. However, it suffices it with the element of portability. Due to this feature, you can move the pressure washer from one place to the other without investing your energy in it.
Unlike gas-powered pressure washers, this pressure washing machine is designed to save you both time and money. Also, it comes with a variety of tools to suit your cleaning purposes. For instance, it has a soap applicator. This feature enables the users of this unit to make use of soap water effectively for cleaning purposes.
However, one important thing to bear in mind about this product is that it is not intended for heavy use. It is ideal only for performing lighter cleaning tasks. If kept operational for a longer duration, it can overheat which can affect the lifespan of the unit.
Specifications
| Weight | 16.27 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.42 x 17.13 x 9.45 inches |
| Pressure | 1500 PSI |
| GPM | 1.2 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 1800 units |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Soap applicator for easy application of soap
- Comes with a variety of tools
Cons
- Doesn’t have a very high level of output for performing difficult cleaning tasks
- Has a tendency of overheating when operational for longer hours
Best Wall Mount Pressure Washer: Cam Spray 2000WM/SSM3 Deluxe
Cam Spray 2000WM wall mount pressure washer is a top-notch product in its category. It has grabbed the attention of most buyers in recent years due to its wide range of features. The prominent among them is the fact that it mounts to walls without much hassle.
Unlike the other variants in its categories, it comes across with a functional design. It is the innovative design of this product that protects its motor from moisture. It is enclosed in a steel frame. Its motor is fully protected.
The other thing that comes to the attention of users is its long hose. Its hose is 20 feet long, which is a great size for wall mount pressure washer.
It has an arrangement for storing Q-Meg nozzles in the form of grommets. Plus, you can also choose the chemical concentration of your choice to ensure optimum cleaning experience. Its dual chemical valves facilitate this feature.
After preparing the liquid detergents, you can apply it easily using the chemical injection of the product. The pressure washer comes with an easy-to-apply arrangement with its soap tip.
It comes with a wide range of blades that are meant for cleaning different materials. However, you need to get used to these blades. It can be a little tricky if you are not much experienced about using the unit.
Specifications
| Weight | 200 pounds |
| Dimensions | 28 x 22 x 30 inches |
| Pressure | 2000 PSI |
| GPM | 4 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 8000 units |
| Hose Length | 50 feet |
Pros
- Produces lesser sound
- Has a knob to switch between chemicals
- Sturdy build
- Fully covered units with grommets
Cons
- Comes with several blades that are not easy to discern
- The instructions in the manual may not be simple for users, especially for beginners
Read More: 10 Best Wall Mounted Pressure Washers
Best Pressure Washer for Limited Budget: Stanley SHP1600
Stanley SHP 1600 Electric Power Washer is a unit from Stanley which is essentially made for lighter cleaning tasks and that too come in budget. It has a host of other features that make it an ideal pressure washer that you can use for lighter cleaning tasks.
To begin with, it is an affordable unit for those who want a pressure washing unit with good performance without straining their finances. If you have been looking for such a unit for a long time, you will want to invest in this affordable pressure washing unit.
Despite being lightweight, the unit comes with all the necessary arrangements. It has a spray gun, a wand of considerable size, and a pressure washer nozzle. The variable pressure washer nozzle helps you adjust the pressure settings you need for cleaning different surfaces in your home. As such, you do not need to keep changing the nozzle while performing different cleaning tasks.
Unlike the other pressure washers in the market, this one does not have wheels. However, it isn’t too heavy and can be easily carried from one place to the other without much effort. As a result, you can consider this unit as one of the best pocket friendly pressure washers available in the market. You can move it from place to place in line based on your cleaning requirements.
Another useful feature of this pressure washer is its hose. Powered with useful garden settings, it makes life easy for users. You can reach different areas without actually transporting the pressure washer. It has a hose of a considerable length for this purpose. Unless you need to access a faraway area which is beyond the range of its hose, you can get your job done without moving the pressure washer.
Specifications
| Weight | 15.21 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.02 x 10.04 x 17.72 inches |
| Pressure | 1600 PSI |
| GPM | 1.3 GPM |
| Cleaning Power | 2080 units |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to configure pressure from the nozzle
- Versatile cleaning settings
- Useful garden hose settings
Cons
- Low pressure output
- Doesn’t have wheels
FAQs
How does pressure washer work?
A pressure washer may either run by gas or electricity. These options power the water pump and garden hose supply the water. The pump, in turn, increases the pressure output of water. When a user pulls the trigger, water mingles with air and is liberated through the nozzle.
What is a good PSI and GPM for a pressure washer? And what’s more important?
The ideal PSI and GPM for a pressure washer depend on the objectives of a user’s cleaning task.
- Light-duty tasks: 1,800-2,200 PSI at 2.0 GPM
- Medium-duty tasks: 2,300-2,500 PSI at 2.2-2.3 GPM
- Heavy-duty tasks: 2,600-3,100 PSI at 2.5 GPM
Both PSI and GPM are important for a pressure washer. Together, they give the cleaning units which separate the highest rated pressure washer from the rest.
Which is better gas or electric pressure washer?
Both gas and electric pressure washers have their share of pros and cons. Gas pressure washer produces more cleaning units but it is less portable. Plus, it also needs constant fueling to remain operational. It is suitable for cleaning large areas. On the other hand, electric pressure washers produce lesser output and are ideal for use in smaller areas. Thus, it is up to a user to decide the best pressure washer to buy based on their needs.
Does a pressure washer need water pressure?
A pressure washer needs water to produce the ideal pressure for cleaning. It only needs water and not water at pressure. If you can supply water into a pressure washer, it can create water pressure on its own.
Final Verdict
From the pressure washer reviews above, it stands out that Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer is the best unit among the pressure washing units available in the market. We have chosen it as the pick of the bunch after taking both its advantages and shortcomings into consideration. We found that its pros weigh more than the cons, which justify both its price and popularity.
However, we also acknowledge that the definition of the best pressure washer for the money lies at the discretion of a user. It depends on their requirements and budget. Therefore, we recommend that you determine the best unit among the aforementioned choices based on your needs before investing your money.