Best Garden Tiller Buyer Guide & Comparison Chart

Last Updated 5/23/2022

You need a garden tiller to get the best out of your garden. However, this only works out well when you get the best garden tiller.

I’ve taken my time to do some research. And here are eight tillers that you’ll find great for your garden.

Best Garden Tiller Comparison Chart

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ImageProductFeaturesPrice
GREEN THUMB
Tazz 35310 Front Tine Tiller
Tazz 35310 Front Tine Tiller
  • Gas
  • 83.8 lbs
Check Current Price
BEST OPTION
EARTHQUAKE 33970 Victory Tiller
EARTHQUAKE 33970 Victory Tiller
  • Gas
  • 162.7 lbs
Check Current Price
SOLD OPTION
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools
  • Corded
  • 30 lbs
Check Current Price
EASE OF USE
Earthquake 31635 MC33 Tiller
Earthquake 31635 MC33 Tiller
  • Gas
  • 33 lbs
Check Current Price
BEST BATTERY
Earthwise 40-Volt Cordless Tiller
Earthwise 40-Volt Cordless Tiller
  • Battery
  • 26 lbs
Check Current Price
HIGH RATINGS
Sun Joe TJ604E  13.5 AMP Tiller
Sun Joe TJ604E 13.5 AMP Tiller
  • Corded
  • 27.1 lbs
Check Current Price
BUDGET OPTION
TACKLIFE Classic Tiller, Tilling
TACKLIFE Classic Tiller, Tilling
  • Corded
  • 25.9 lbs
Check Current Price
EFFICIENT
Earthwise TC70016 13.5-Amp Corded
Earthwise TC70016 13.5-Amp Corded
  • Corded
  • 29 lbs
Check Current Price

Best Garden Tiller Reviews

GREEN THUMB
1 | Tazz 35310 2-in-1 Front Tine Tiller

1 | Tazz 35310 2-in-1 Front Tine Tiller

  • Type: GasTilling 
  • Width: Multiple (11″, 16″, 21″)
  • Weight: 83.8 lbs

Our first pick is the 35310 model from Tazz that combines power with durability to ensure you get the best value.

With this option, you enjoy a fuel-efficient and high-performance Viper engine that ensures optimal performance. Even more, it complements this with its weight of 83.8 lbs. In turn, you can be sure to dig into any ground easily. You don’t even have to experience any hassle when you start it.

The great thing about the Tazz 35310 is its durability. It comprises tough components such as steel tines and bronze gear that ensures you can enjoy it for multiple planting seasons.

You also enjoy optimal flexibility. It comes with a handlebar that you can adjust to four height positions. This way, you can be sure to get the convenience you deserve. You also get a drag stake that aligns with different positions without using any tool.

What Sets It Apart?

One thing that commands respect with this option is its versatility. With this option, you get both a tiller and a cultivator. All you need to do is remove the side shields and outer tines. You also get a tilling width that’s adjustable between 11 to 21 inches based on your needs.

PROS

  • It comes designed with optimal balance and stability in mind
  • It comes with a 3-year limited warranty that assures you of durability
  • It provides value for money as you get both a tiller and a cultivator
  • It’s gas-powered, which allows you to work through large areas quickly and easily

CONS

  • It’s gas-powered, which makes the tiller less environmentally friendly
  • You’ll have to spend a considerable amount of time and money on maintenance

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Tazz 35310 2-in-1 Front Tine Tiller


BEST OPTION
2 | EARTHQUAKE 33970 Victory Rear Tine Tiller

2 | EARTHQUAKE 33970 Victory Rear Tine Tiller

  • Type: GasTilling 
  • Width: 16″
  • Weight: 162.7 lbs

Another great option is this gas-powered rear tine tiller from EARTHQUAKE. It’s a great option thanks to its 212CC Viper Motor that delivers top-notch power within a compact build. This way, you enjoy complete ease of use without sacrificing your tiller’s performance.

You also enjoy a counter-rotating tine that ensures your tiller can go deep into the soil. It couples this with a self-propelled wheel placed opposite to the counter-rotating tine. This combination guarantees that there’s an opposing force that concentrates power on an area.

You also enjoy a tiller that can go 10 inches deep and as much as 16 inches wide in a single go. With its lopped handlebars that offer three height adjustments, you can be sure to run through your tilling in record time.

What Sets It Apart?

With this option, you get a reverse lever that allows you to work backward easily. Although it weighs 162.7 lbs, there’s a proper balance of this weight to ensure efficient maneuverability even in tight spaces. It’s simply the best choice for your tilling needs.

PROS

  • It provides flexibility and adjustability that allows you to enjoy the best ergonomic experience
  • It’s versatile as you can apply it to both tilling new grounds and re-tilling existing grounds
  • It comes with steel construction that is suitable for heavy-duty actions while remaining durable
  • It comes with a 5-year warranty, including support and service

CONS

  • It’s quite heavy, meaning you might experience fatigue faster with this option
  • It’s gas-powered, meaning you’ll have to contend with considerable noise

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: EARTHQUAKE 33970 Victory Rear Tine Tiller


SOLD OPTION
3 | Scotts Outdoor Power Tools TC70135S

3 | Scotts Outdoor Power Tools TC70135S

  • Type: CordedTilling 
  • Width: 11″
  • Weight: 30 lbs

Next up is this great power tool from Scotts. It provides optimal performance thanks to its powerful 13.5-Amp. Even more, this electric motor isn’t only high performing; it’s also durable. This way, you enjoy a long-lasting experience.

In case you doubt its durability, this option comes with tines made from alloy steel. With this, you can be sure that its six adjustable tines will last and allows you to get value for your investment. Then, it can be as wide as 16 inches and then 8 inches deep.

It’s also easy to set up. You can start up this option easily with its power button. Even adding to this convenience is its soft grip. Then, as if that’s not enough, you get a flip-down wheel at the rear that allows you to handle and transport the tiller easily.

What Sets It Apart?

Weighing 30 lbs, it’s reasonably lightweight. This way, you avoid fatigue and stress when tilling. Then, coupled with the fact that it’s corded, you can use it non-stop for as long as you need.

PROS

  • It provides top maneuverability that allows you to get the job done effectively
  • You don’t have to worry about regular maintenance with this option
  • It’s easy to set up or assemble
  • It has a cord retention claw that ensures the cord doesn’t get entangled with the cultivator

CONS

  • You need to be close to some sort of power source
  • Consumers complained that within a month, the gearing of the tiller blade stripped
  • Rarely obtains spot-free rinse

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Scotts Outdoor Power Tools TC70135S


EASE OF USE
4 | Earthquake 31635 MC33 Mini Tiller Cultivator

4 | Earthquake 31635 MC33 Mini Tiller Cultivator

  • Type: GasTilling 
  • Width: Multiple (6″ & 10″)
  • Weight: 33 lbs

Another top option is the 31635 model from Earthquake that provides versatility. This gas-powered option isn’t only versatile; it also supports optimal convenience as you begin tilling.

You can count on its onboard wheels that allow you to transport the tiller easily. It’s also lightweight weighing 33 lbs that ensures there’ll be no cause for fatigue when you get started.

Even more, it has a functional overhand control that reduces jumping and bouncing. In turn, this ensures you can till the ground effectively. Also, when you decide to weed, you can keep your plant safe thanks to the increased maneuverability you enjoy.

It has a Viper engine that’s among the largest and most powerful motor within its class. With it, you can get into action and finish up your task in record time.

What Sets It Apart?

With this option, you enjoy unrivaled ease of use. It has a practical design that provides optimal flexibility and user control. It comes with a throttle arrangement and an overhand grip that supports both backward and forward operation. This way, you can maneuver around your plants with ease.

PROS

  • It comes with an adjustable wheel that supports efficient depth control
  • It’s a versatile option that allows you to enjoy a tiller reaching 10 inches in width and a cultivator that reaches 6 inches in width
  • It’s durable and reliable as it comes with a 5-year limited warranty

CONS

  • It’s not the best option for thick and rocky soil
  • Consumers have complained about its fuel tank leaking after a short usage

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Earthquake 31635 MC33 Mini Tiller Cultivator


BEST BATTERY
5 | Earthwise 11” 40-Volt Cordless Tiller Cultivator

5 | Earthwise 11” 40-Volt Cordless Tiller Cultivator

  • Type: 40-volt batteryTilling 
  • Width: 11″
  • Weight: 26 lbs

If power, efficiency, convenience, and functionality is what you’re looking for, then you want to try out this option from Earthwise.

Yes, with this option, you don’t need to worry about being close to a power source. You enjoy a 40-volt battery that provides long performance. The great thing about this option is that it has a lithium-ion battery. As such, you have no concerns about durability.

When it comes to tiling, it comes with a width capacity of 7 inches that you can adjust up to 11 inches. You also enjoy an 8 inches depth capacity. With this, you get a guarantee that you’ll get the best soil condition when you start planting.

This option comes with four steel tines that ensure durability. Coupled with its weight of 26 lbs, you can be sure that the tines will till deep.

What Sets It Apart?

It comes with a great battery that allows you to enjoy as much as 45 minutes of action when it’s fully charged. With its push-button option, you also enjoy convenience at its best.

This is also the case when you’re working on a large area thanks to its lightweight structure.

PROS

  • It comes with a flip-down wheel that supports easy transportation
  • It comes with a rechargeable 40-volt battery that recharges fully within two hours
  • It has an auxiliary handle that comes with a comfy foam grip
  • It’s a noiseless, emission-less, and green option

CONS

  • It might not be the best for hard soil thanks to its lightweight
  • Customers have complained that it won’t work unless the battery is full.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Earthwise 11” 40-Volt Cordless Tiller Cultivator


HIGH RATINGS
6 | Sun Joe TJ604E 16-Inch 13.5 AMP Electric Garden Tiller

6 | Sun Joe TJ604E 16-Inch 13.5 AMP Electric Garden Tiller

  • Type: CordedTilling 
  • Width: 16″
  • Weight: 27.1 lbs

This is another exceptional tiller that brings speed and convenience to your tilling adventure. It comes with a 13.5-AMP motor that can cultivate as much as 8 inches deep and 16 inches wide. This ensures you get to your task faster than ever.

It’s also a durable option thanks to its steel tines. You can count on long-lasting experience with this option.

You also enjoy the advantage of easy storage. Thanks to its foldable handle, you can pack it up easily, and fit into an area without hassle. You can also transport it easily.

It’s a corded option that comes from a reliable manufacturer, Sun Joe. And that’s why you also enjoy a 2-year warranty when you pick it.

What Sets It Apart?

One thing that sets this option from Sun Joe apart is its wheels adjustment capacity. You can adjust the wheel into three positions. This ensures you enjoy the most convenient and flexible tilling experience. 

You also don’t need to worry about fatigue as it weighs 27.1 lbs that you can carry around easily for as long as you need to.

PROS

  • It has a foldable handle that allows you to store it easily
  • It’s maintenance-free as you don’t have to worry about dealing with oil or gas
  • It’s environmentally friendly as you don’t have to worry about fumes and smokes
  • It’s adjustable and supports your convenience

CONS

  • You need to be close to some sort of power source
  • It’s lightweight and might cut deep into the ground

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Sun Joe TJ604E 16-Inch 13.5 AMP Electric Garden Tiller


BUDGET OPTION
7 | TACKLIFE Classic Tiller, 16-INCH Tilling Width

7 | TACKLIFE Classic Tiller, 16-INCH Tilling Width

  • Type: CordedTilling 
  • Width: 16″
  • Weight: 25.9 lbs

Our list will be incomplete without this classic option form TACKLIFE. This is thanks to the efficiency and power that it brings to your tilling endeavors.

Although it comes with a 12-Amp capacity, it complements this with its copper motor that provides 400RPM speed, efficient operation, and high torque grinding.

Then, it gets even better. It can cover as much as 16 inches in width and 8 inches in depth. And it does this with its six manganese steel tines that guarantee durability. You then get a tiller that supports deep soil crushing and turning.

One thing you’ll also enjoy is the convenience it supports. It comes with a foldable handle that you can easily fold. This way, you can save space. Then, coupled with its lightweight design of 25.9 lbs and transport system, you can move it easily and avoid fatigue.

What Sets It Apart?

This corded option comes with a safety system that provides double protection. It enjoys a steel shield that protects you from stones. Even more, you get all this at the most affordable rate.

PROS

  • It has an adjustable handle that allows you to operate it conveniently
  • It has an armrest that’s reliable and stable while guaranteeing optimal convenience
  • You don’t have to worry about noise and vibration or battery charging issues
  • It’s cost-effective considering the value it provides

CONS

  • You need to be close to some sort of power source
  • Customers have complained that it broke down after a few minutes of working

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: TACKLIFE Classic Tiller, 16-INCH Tilling Width


EFFICIENT
8 | Earthwise TC70016 16-Inch 13.5-Amp Corded

8 | Earthwise TC70016 16-Inch 13.5-Amp Corded

  • Type: CordedTilling 
  • Width: 16″
  • Weight: 29 lbs

Our final pick on the list is the ever efficient TC70016 from Earthwise. Although another corded option, it comes with a functional 13.5-AMP that ensures you get adequate power from the engine as you begin tilling.

It then complements this with its reasonable but capable weight of 29 lbs that ensures you can dig deep. With this option, you won’t have to worry about proper tilling thanks to its width and depth tilling capacity. It has an 11 inches width capacity that you can adjust up to 16. You also enjoy an 8 inches depth capacity.

You also enjoy a cord retention claw that allows you to secure the cord conveniently. Then, coupled with its flip-down transportation wheel, you can be sure to enjoy easy transport, storage, and above all, ease of use.

What Sets It Apart?

It has a start button that takes labor and brings convenience when trying to start this machine. It’s also straightforward when it comes to operating this choice. You also don’t have to worry about durability. The manufacturers assure that with the 2-year warranty that comes with it.

PROS

  • It has an ergonomic handle that allows you to store it easily
  • It’s maintenance-free as you don’t have to worry about dealing with oil or gas
  • It’s environmentally friendly as you don’t have to worry about fumes and smokes
  • It comes with six adjustable tines in a front tine design

CONS

  • You need to be close to some sort of power source
  • You might need to pull rather than push as it doesn’t have considerable front weight

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Earthwise TC70016 16-Inch 13.5-Amp Corded


Types of Garden Tillers

There are two types of garden tillers that you can purchase.  Usually, the major distinction between them is their area of application. Precisely, while one is best suited to smaller and less rocky areas, the other fits into bigger and harder soil.

So, what are your options?

Front-Tine Tillers

This type of tiller is an excellent option if you’re looking to cultivate or break the ground. While they look like garden cultivators, they are bigger and can dig deeper.

They stay in front, and you use them by pushing it ahead. You can either do this manually or through an engine. However, in most cases, the engine is gas-powered.

They are perfect for flower beds and laws that have moderate soil compaction. So, they are a great option if you want to loosen firm soil.

Rear-Tine Tillers

This is a great option if you’re looking to loosen or break rocky and very hard soils. You can also apply them to bigger gardens, although people rarely employ them for cultivation activities.

garden tiller

In some cases, I use them to loosen firm soil before I get my front-tine tiller to work. From this, you can tell that this tiller type has more functional and cutting power than front-tine tillers.

Garden Tillers vs. Cultivators

One thing that I need to clarify is the difference between garden tillers and cultivators. I’m sure you’re already surprised.

Well, it’s okay. Just like you, there are loads of other people who use them interchangeably.

However, in fact, they are different. And this is thanks to the difference in their purpose.

When it comes to a tiller, it helps you dig deep while mixing the soil. The goal is to help you loosen your soil and provide better drainage and aeration. In turn, this supports proper germination. 

On the other hand, a cultivator helps you to get weeds off your soil. They also assist you to mix compost with your soil and generally mix your loose soil.

As such, your cultivator is smaller than your tillers. And they can’t engage in heavy-duty actions like your tillers.

Again, you’ll only need to get your tiller into action, at most twice in a planting season. However, your cultivator will see more use. In fact, you’ll need it as frequently as every month to ensure your lawn stays in a top condition.

So, now, remember that having a cultivator doesn’t mean you don’t need a tiller. And having a tiller doesn’t put an end to your need for a cultivator. You’ll need both to get the best result from your garden.

Attributes of A Great Garden Tiller

I bet you want something that can do the job and more. Well, that’s why this is important.

While every tiller is different from the other, there are some core attributes that a good tiller must possess. And I dare say you’ve got no reason buying one that doesn’t have them.

So, what are these features? Here you go.

A Power Source

The first thing a great garden tiller will have is a power source. Typically, tillers come with either manual, gas-powered, or electrical power options.

Your best bet is a gas-powered option. This is because it offers you the best power. However, it’s quite noisy and may not be the best option for small gardens or lawns.

On the other hand, electric tillers are also a great option. It then comes in varieties, a battery-powered and a corded option.

Usually, you’ll find that the corded type is user friendly and lightweight. However, you’ll have to contend with the cord getting in your way when tilling.

best garden tillers

The battery-powered options are also user-friendly. However, they are not as lightweight as the corded option. You’ll also have to contend with limited run time before you need to recharge.

The last option is a manual tiller. However, you should only consider this option when you’ve got a small garden.

An Adjustable Cutting Depth

If a garden tiller doesn’t come with this, then; it’s far from great. Typically, you’ll find tillers that either support an adjustable or fixed depth. You’ll need to avoid the latter.

With an adjustable cutting depth, you can always adjust the cutting depth. This way, it suits your terrain. Even more, when you relocate, you won’t need to worry about incompatibility.

A Dual Rotating Tine

Another feature that you must look out for is a dual rotating tine. And this is even more important if you’ve got a large lawn or garden.

This allows you to enjoy extra cutting power. In turn, it means you can till faster than ever.

Remember, you won’t find this feature on every tiller. So, it would be best that you confirm by checking its product description bar.

A Counter Rotating Tine

Finally, your tiller is an excellent choice if it’s got a counter-rotating tine. And you’ll want to look out for this.

It comes with the additional benefit of allowing you to dig deeper. This means you can leave your soil in the best condition. And, of course, get value for your money.

What You Should Consider When Getting A Garden Tiller

You already know what makes up the best garden tiller. However, that’s not the end of the road when trying to make the best purchase.

You’ll also need to keep some things in mind when making a purchase. And yes, they are somewhat different from the features of a good tiller.

While the feature component concerns itself with the tiller, what you should consider is more extensive. It involves both internal and external factors that are relevant for consideration.

I’m sure you’re already curious. Well, let’s get right to these factors.

Your Garden Size

One thing you need to pay considerable attention to is your garden size. And this is perhaps the most essential factor.

Now, imagine owning a garden spanning an acre, then trying to till it with a manual tiller. Trust me; you’re in for a lifetime of stress. In such a situation, you’ll need to get a powerful tiller like a gas-powered or electric tiller.

On the other hand, a small garden would suffer from a gas-powered tiller. The noise would even make it worse.

So, ensure you consider this thoroughly before you make a choice.

Your Budget

You can’t take your eyes away from this. No matter your choice, they’ll need to be something you can afford. So, why not consider this from the very beginning?

As such, ensure that you consider how much you can spare for a tiller before searching. This way, you can get the best option within your price range.

However, you’ll want to be sure you don’t sacrifice quality for cost. While you want a cost-effective option, don’t go for an inferior option.

In the long run, you’ll only cost yourself money for repairs and replacement. I guarantee you don’t want that.

So, go for something affordable, but still with superior construction and design.

Your Soil Type

Remember, you’ll be tilling the soil. So, you want to make sure that what you get is suitable for your soil type.

Well, here’s the drill.

It would be best to go for average or standard tiller if your soil is all good. And by this, I mean a loamy soil that’s relatively free of weed. In such cases, you don’t need much tilling, and a regular tiller should do the trick.

However, in a case where you have heavy or class-based soil or your soil is compacted, gravelly, and rocky, then you’ll need a powerful tiller.

Your Tilling Type

You’ll most likely overlook this, but don’t; it’s even as important. You’ll need to consider what type of tilling you’ll be doing.

You could be breaking new grounds. Alternatively, you could be re-tilling. And they require different types of tillers.

For instance, if you’re tilling new grounds, that’s more work. It would be best to get a tough tiller, preferably big and gas-powered.

However, if you’re re-tilling, the soil would be easier. As such, a front line and smaller tiller would do the job.

Functionality and User Friendliness

You always want a material that can serve the purpose for which you bought it. And that’s where functionality comes into play.

As such, you might need to consider the attachments that come with your tiller. However, ensure you don’t prioritize versatility over quality.

Even at this, you’ll want an option that’s user friendly. For instance, a heavy tiller will cause fatigue in the long run. So, you want to go for a lightweight option.

You also want something that supports easy movement. And, of course, a tiller you can store easily.

Manufacturer Guarantee or Warranty

While you might overlook this when getting other materials, you need to prioritize this here.

If you’re honest with yourself, your tiller will come across unwanted materials, for instance, heavy rocks in the ground. Even more, you can’t always be sure there would be no issues.

As such, you want your investment protected in the event of such an occurrence. Make sure that your manufacturer provides a guarantee of durability. And a warranty that backs that up.

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Final Thoughts

Now, you know everything about choosing the right garden tiller. You’ve also got a list of options if you’re looking to choose the best garden tiller.

However, you’ll eventually have to make a pick. And if I were in your shoes, I’ll be going for the Tazz 35310 2-in-1 Front Tine Tiller. And my reasons are somewhat straightforward.

First, it’s a versatile option that allows me to get a cultivator and tiller with one purchase. And at an affordable price at that.

Even more, it supports your convenience thanks to its adjustable handles. Even more, you won’t have to worry about physical stress. It’s gas-powered, which allows you to work through large areas quickly and easily.

It also comes with a 3-year limited warranty that assures you of durability. So, you don’t just have its steel tines; you can always count on the manufacturer’s guarantee. Great right?

Well, now the rest is up to you. Get into the market and purchase a tiller. However, remember to consider all I’ve mentioned above.

Related Questions

What Is the Best Tiller for A Small Garden?

It would be best to go for an electric or manual powered tiller depending on how small your garden is. Regardless, ensure that it has an adjustable cutting depth, a durable tine, and comes with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Are Electric Garden Tillers Any Good?

Yes, electric garden tillers are a great choice. Not only do they eliminate the stress that comes with manual tillers, but they also allow you to cover a big area faster.

Green Thumb Gardener
best garden tiller review
Jeremy Starke

We at Green Thumb Gardener provide tips and guides for both for beginners and advanced gardeners out there. 

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