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.

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?

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.

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.

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.