Best Wood Chipper Under $500

Looking for a wood chipper that won’t break the bank but still gets the job done? Whether you’re tackling branches, garden clippings, or seasonal leaf piles, there are several high-performing wood chippers under $500 that can help you clean up fast—without sacrificing too much power, safety, or convenience.

This guide covers the best budget wood chippers under $500 in 2024, with electric and gas options, key features, and what to expect at this price point.

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Can You Get a Good Wood Chipper for Under $500?

Yes—if your needs are moderate. At this price range, you’ll find chippers suited for:

• Branches up to 1.5–2 inches

• Garden debris and leaves

• Routine backyard cleanup

What you typically won’t get:

• Heavy-duty or commercial performance

• 3″+ branch capacity

• Hydraulic feeds or tow-behind trailers

But for homeowners with regular yard maintenance needs, a sub-$500 chipper is often more than enough.

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Best Wood Chippers Under $500 in 2024

1. PowerSmart PS10 15-Amp Electric Wood Chipper

Best for: Light-duty home use and garden maintenance

Direct Answer: The PowerSmart PS10 is a budget-friendly electric chipper that shreds branches up to 1.6 inches and is perfect for small yards or occasional use.

Key Features:

• 15-amp electric motor

• Max capacity: 1.6 inches

• Compact and weighs just 33 lbs

• Safety locking knob and overload protection

Why It’s a Top Pick:

• One of the most affordable chippers available

• Great for pruning cleanup and hedge trimmings

• Lightweight and easy to store

Drawbacks:

• Limited to dry wood and small branches

• Needs an outdoor-rated extension cord

Price Range: ~$150–$200

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2. Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Electric Chipper/Shredder

Best for: Leaves, twigs, and home composting

Direct Answer: The Earthwise GS70015 offers slightly more capacity (up to 1.75 inches) and comes with a built-in mulch bin, making it great for eco-conscious gardeners.

Top Features:

• 15-amp motor

• Cuts branches up to 1.75 inches

• Includes collection bin and push stick

• Blade design minimizes jams

Why It Stands Out:

• Tidy operation with included mulch bin

• Shreds twigs, stalks, and dry garden debris well

• Easy to operate for beginners

Limitations:

• Not ideal for wet or green material

• Slightly more expensive than other electric models

Price Range: ~$250–$300

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3. WEN 41121 15-Amp Electric Wood Chipper

Best for: DIY mulch makers and regular yard cleanup

Direct Answer: The WEN 41121 is a reliable 15-amp chipper with dual blades, compact size, and a good balance of price and performance for everyday homeowners.

Specs:

• 15-amp motor

• Chipping capacity: 1.5 inches

• Internal safety shutoff if the hopper opens

• Includes push paddle and wheels

Why It’s Budget-Friendly & Useful:

• Strong enough for light branches and yard clippings

• Compact and easy to maneuver

• Good for turning yard waste into mulch

Considerations:

• Not meant for hard wood or thick branches

• Collection bag not included

Price Range: ~$200–$250

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4. Sun Joe CJ602E 15-Amp Electric Wood Chipper

Best for: Occasional yard maintenance and small branches

Direct Answer: The Sun Joe CJ602E is a best-seller in the entry-level electric chipper space, offering simple plug-and-go functionality for up to 1.5-inch branches.

Features:

• 15-amp motor

• Handles up to 1.5 inches

• Compact and weighs just 26 lbs

• Two 6-inch wheels for portability

Why It’s Reliable:

• Trusted brand with strong customer support

• Extremely lightweight and beginner-friendly

• Perfect for routine cleanup of shrubs and clippings

Limitations:

• Doesn’t handle moist or thick material well

• Requires short extension cords to avoid overheating

Price Range: ~$150–$175

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5. SuperHandy Mini Wood Chipper (Gas-Powered)

Best for: More power without breaking the budget

Direct Answer: The SuperHandy Mini Wood Chipper is a rare gas-powered chipper under $500, offering more torque and outdoor freedom than electric models in this price range.

Specs:

• 7 HP 212cc gas engine

• Max branch capacity: 3 inches

• Compact frame, weighs under 100 lbs

• Side discharge chute and steel blades

Why It’s a Game Changer at This Price:

• Gas power means no cords or outlets needed

• Stronger than any electric model under $500

• Useful for larger yards and tougher debris

Things to Know:

• Requires maintenance (fuel, oil, air filter)

• May arrive partially assembled

Price Range: ~$450–$500

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What to Look for in a Sub-$500 Wood Chipper

1. Branch Capacity

Choose a chipper that matches your most common yard waste:

• 1–1.5 inches: Light pruning and garden cleanup

• 1.5–2 inches: Better for moderate brush piles

• 3 inches: Go gas-powered if you need this capacity

2. Motor Type

• Electric (15-amp): Quiet, eco-friendly, great for light use

• Gas-powered (212cc+): More versatile and mobile, better for heavy-duty jobs

3. Feeding Design

• Look for top hoppers for twigs, leaves, and soft debris

• Side chutes are better for feeding branches

4. Portability

• Choose a model with 6-inch wheels or a carry handle

• Lightweight units are easier to store in garages or sheds

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Quick Comparison Table

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Who Should Buy a Wood Chipper Under $500?

You’ll get excellent value from a budget chipper if you:

• Maintain a small to medium yard

• Want to create mulch or compost from leaves and sticks

• Need a portable, affordable solution for occasional cleanup

• Don’t require large-capacity, commercial-grade performance

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Conclusion: Power and Affordability Can Go Hand in Hand

You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your yard clean and green. With the right chipper under $500, you can tackle seasonal cleanup, turn waste into mulch, and reduce trips to the dump—all with minimal effort.

Top Picks Recap:

• Best Overall Value: PowerSmart PS10 – Affordable and efficient

• Best for Composting: Earthwise GS70015 – Clean and compact

• Best Electric Build: WEN 41121 – Reliable, well-designed

• Best Brand Trust: Sun Joe CJ602E – Lightweight and beginner-friendly

• Most Powerful Option: SuperHandy Mini – Gas-powered muscle under budget

Still unsure which budget chipper fits your yard and routine? Let me know your yard size, average debris type, and how often you clean up—I’ll help you find the best match under $500.