Best Electric Start Wood Chipper

If you’re looking for convenience and reliable power, nothing beats an electric start wood chipper. Forget pull cords and frustrating cold starts—just turn a key or press a button and you’re ready to chip. Whether you’re maintaining a backyard, managing farm debris, or handling storm cleanup, electric start chippers offer a blend of professional-grade performance and homeowner-friendly operation.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best electric start wood chippers in 2024, how they differ from traditional models, and how to choose the right one for your yard, acreage, or landscaping business.

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Why Choose an Electric Start Wood Chipper?

An electric start chipper uses a battery-powered ignition system that starts the engine with the turn of a key or the push of a button. It’s a game changer if:

• You want to avoid the hassle of pull-starting a heavy engine

• You live in a colder climate where gas engines are harder to start

• You need a chipper that’s ready to work quickly, with minimal downtime

These machines are typically gas-powered, combining a powerful engine with modern convenience. Some are also towable, PTO-compatible, or built for commercial-grade chipping.

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Best Electric Start Wood Chippers in 2024

1. DK2 OPC506 6-Inch Electric Start Wood Chipper

Best for: Serious property owners and contractors

Direct Answer: The DK2 OPC506 is a commercial-grade wood chipper with a powerful 14 HP Kohler engine and electric start ignition, capable of chipping limbs up to 6.25 inches in diameter.

Top Features:

• Electric key start with recoil backup

• 14 HP Kohler Command Pro engine

• Chips up to 6.25-inch branches

• DOT-approved trailer for towing

• Heavy-duty dual-edge steel blades

Why It’s a Top Choice:

• Reliable for regular heavy use on large properties or job sites

• Starts effortlessly in all weather

• Portable and towable with trucks or UTVs

Considerations:

• Weighs over 400 lbs—requires tow vehicle for transport

• Higher price, but well worth it for long-term performance

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2. Power King PK0915-EH Electric Start Wood Chipper

Best for: Homeowners with big yards or frequent cleanup jobs

Direct Answer: The Power King PK0915-EH features a 14 HP engine, 5-inch capacity, and electric start for easy ignition, making it a powerful and convenient solution for large residential properties.

Key Specs:

• 14 HP Kohler engine

• Electric start + recoil backup

• Handles branches up to 5 inches

• Heavy-duty rotor with dual blades

• Towable frame with 2” ball hitch

Why It’s Ideal:

• Combines mid-range capacity with push-button simplicity

• Great for storm cleanup, pruning, and general yard maintenance

• Includes built-in safety features and rugged tires

What to Keep in Mind:

• Requires battery maintenance for consistent electric start function

• Assembly may take 1–2 hours

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3. Detail K2 WC500 Commercial Electric Start Wood Chipper

Best for: Contractors and commercial-grade chipping on the move

Direct Answer: The DK2 WC500 is a 3-inch capacity chipper with electric start and a compact towable design, great for residential pros or mobile landscapers.

Main Features:

• Electric start with backup recoil

• 3-inch max capacity

• 7 HP 208cc engine

• Tow-behind configuration with wide tires

Why It’s Valuable:

• Starts quickly and effortlessly

• Ideal for residential jobs that require reliable power and fast cleanup

• Smaller footprint for easy storage

Limitations:

• Lower chipping capacity than 5–6 inch machines

• Not ideal for commercial forestry or storm disaster cleanup

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4. WoodMaxx MX-9900 PTO Wood Chipper (with Electric Start Optional)

Best for: Tractor owners with high-capacity needs

Direct Answer: While technically a PTO chipper, the MX-9900 from WoodMaxx can be equipped with an electric start system for the hydraulic feed, making it a top-tier option for farms and large properties.

Key Highlights:

• PTO-driven with 9-inch branch capacity

• Compatible with 35–100 HP tractors

• Hydraulic feed system (electric start for the feed)

• 200 lb flywheel for powerful cutting

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

• Huge capacity for large-scale clearing

• Electric feed system starts effortlessly

• Built to last with commercial-grade steel and powder coating

Important Note:

• Requires tractor PTO to run the chipper

• Electric start is for hydraulic feed system, not a gas engine

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What to Look For in an Electric Start Chipper

Here’s what matters when you’re shopping for an electric start model:

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1. Electric Start + Recoil Backup

Always make sure the model includes recoil backup—so if the battery dies, you can still start the engine manually. This is standard in most high-quality machines.

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2. Engine Size and Power

Electric start chippers usually come with 7 HP to 14 HP engines. Here’s a guide:

Tip: Go bigger if you regularly chip thick limbs or hardwood.

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3. Chipping Capacity

Choose a machine with a capacity slightly larger than the biggest branches you expect to handle.

• 3–4” is great for regular pruning, hedge work, and light tree cleanup

• 5–6” works for storm debris, firewood prep, and serious brush

• 9” (PTO models) are built for professionals or large-scale clearing

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4. Towability and Portability

If you need to move your chipper:

• Look for DOT-approved trailers with proper lights and hitches

• Choose wheeled designs for maneuverability around your yard

• Consider tractor-mounted PTO chippers for farm use

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5. Blade System and Maintenance

A quality chipper should include:

• Dual or quad steel blades (reversible is a plus)

• Heavy flywheel for momentum and fewer clogs

• Easy-access blade housing for cleaning or sharpening

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6. Safety Features

Electric start chippers should always include:

• Emergency stop switches or bars

• Safety hoppers to prevent contact with blades

• Overload protection to avoid motor damage

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Quick Comparison Table

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Who Should Buy an Electric Start Wood Chipper?

You’ll love an electric start chipper if:

• You’re done with pull cords and want quick, reliable starts

• You chip regularly or seasonally and want a low-effort setup

• You need a powerful chipper that’s easy for anyone to operate

• You live in an area with cold winters, where gas engines struggle to start

These chippers combine performance with modern convenience, making cleanup quicker and maintenance simpler.

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Conclusion: Start Fast, Chip Smarter

Electric start wood chippers give you the power of gas without the hassle of pull cords. Whether you’re running a property with acres of trees or just need to clean up your backyard after a storm, the convenience of push-button starting paired with serious chipping performance makes a big difference.

Top Picks Recap:

• DK2 OPC506 – Best for power users who need 6+ inch capacity

• Power King PK0915-EH – Excellent for homeowners with big jobs

• DK2 WC500 – Great compact option for lighter tasks

• WoodMaxx MX-9900 – Best PTO chipper with electric start feed

Still unsure which electric start chipper is right for you? Let me know your yard size, engine preference, and typical branch size—I’ll help you find the perfect match.