Top Overall Pick
SIMPSON MS60763-S
Premium Choice
DEWALT 60605
Best Value
Snow Joe SPX200E
Whether you’re trying to clean your patio in springtime or working on getting rid of a stubborn oil stain in your garage, patio furniture, driveway, car wash, you’ve probably realized by now that an ordinary garden hose isn’t going to cut it.
Maybe it’s time to consider investing in a pressure washer for your toughest cleaning challenges. But there are so many models out there. So, how do you determine which one is the best pressure washer for your needs?
In this article, we’ll provide a Buyer’s Guide to look at the basics of pressure washers, how they work, and things to consider when buying one. Then, we'll provide a review of what we consider the 10 best pressure washers on the market to help guide your decision-making.
Contents
- Our Favorite Pressure Washers on the Market
- 10 Best Pressure Washers - Reviews
- 1. SIMPSON MS60763-S MegaShot Pressure Washer - Best Overall Pick
- 2. Snow Joe SPX200E Pressure Washer - Best for the Money
- 3. DEWALT 60605 Pressure Washer - Premium Choice
- 4. Pressure Pro E3027HC Pressure Washer
- 6. SIMPSON Cleaning CM60912 Pressure Washer
- 7. Greenworks GPW1501 Pressure Washer
- 8. Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
- 9. AR Blue Clean AR383 Pressure Washer
- 10. Powerstroke PS80544B Pressure Washer
- 10. Powerhouse International Pressure Washer (Red - Platinum Edition)
- Final Verdict: Our Overall Winner
- Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Pressure Washer
Our Favorite Pressure Washers on the Market
10 Best Pressure Washers - Reviews
1. SIMPSON MS60763-S MegaShot Pressure Washer - Best Overall Pick
Key Features
While the SIMPSON MEGASHOT MS60763-S isn’t the most robust or feature-packed Simpson pressure washer available, we’ve chosen it as best overall because we believe it’s the best pressure washer on the market today.
At 3,100 PSI of cleaning power, it’s powerful enough to handle any home maintenance job you can think of, at the same time retaining affordability, range, and durability.
The Simpson MegaShot, made from durable steel, sports a 6.5 horsepower, 196cc Kohler engine, which is easy to maintain and runs long on a single tank of gas without requiring constant monitoring of its oil supply.
This pressure washer also comes with five quick-connect nozzle tips attachments that make regulating it’s 3,100 PSI easily manageable.
The Simpson MegaShot is the best pressure washer for the home. Affordable and reliable to get the job done. It’s capable of blasting off old paint for repainting preparation or cleaning your driveway and patio furniture. And at 25 feet, its abrasion-resistant durable hose promises an acceptable range, along with its 12-inch dual-sealed tires.
Pros
Cons
2. Snow Joe SPX200E Pressure Washer - Best for the Money
Key Features
The SUN JOE SPX200E is our tiny electric pressure washer on our list and also the best for the money. It might be challenging to understand how such a small unit is useful for pressure washing. But it turns out that its size, weight, and agility are what give it a perfect place in any garage or home-appliance shed.
The Sun Joe SPX200E weighs only 10 pounds and provides up to 1,350 PSI with a wand that adjusts the available pressure with a twist of the nozzle. Though it has no wheels, you can transport it up to 35 feet with its power cord and an additional 20 feet with its high-pressure hose.
The Sun Joe SPX200E doesn’t have onboard detergent storage or a lot of power, but if you have small needs, such as focused garden watering, removing light dirt, or washing your car, it might be just the sort of thing you want to get the job done – without breaking the bank.
This tiny pressure washer comes with a two-year warranty and a total stop system.
Pros
Cons
3. DEWALT 60605 Pressure Washer - Premium Choice
Key Features
On the other end of the affordability spectrum from our top overall choice is the beefy DEWALT 60605. It’s one of the more expensive units on our list, which might give you pause. But its versatility might be worth it if you can invest in it.
With a ten-gauge steel frame sitting atop 13-inch premium tires, you can use it either horizontally, like a traditional gas-powered washer, or tipped up onto its front edge, like an electric pressure washer.
DeWalt is well known for making robust, high-quality, home-maintenance tools, and this pressure washer is no exception. It fires at a professional grade 4,200 PSI, making it one of the most potent cleaners on our list – and one you must use with care. It comes with a 50-foot hose, giving it a broad range for even the most challenging jobs.
Pros
Cons
4. Pressure Pro E3027HC Pressure Washer
Key Features
The PRESSURE PRO HEAVY-DUTY E3027HC is precisely what you might think about when considering a gas-powered pressure washer. At 88 pounds, it’s a bear to move around, but it's sturdy and durable on nearly any surface, and it throws water at 2,700 PSI, through one of five quick-connect spray nozzles included.
But the standard features aren’t what distinguish this Pressure Pro model from its competitors. The manufacturer took pains to make this even more durable than it looks by adding a mesh inlet over the engine to prevent dirt and debris from fouling up the motor.
This pressure washer also features a thermo-sensor that automatically shuts off the engine when it runs too hot – and a triplex plunger pump to prevent overheating from occurring in the first place.
The Pressure Pro is one of the more expensive units on our list, but if you’re looking for something durable and reliable, it will serve its purpose. What’s more, in spite of looking like a beast, it’s surprisingly quiet.
Pros
Cons
6. SIMPSON Cleaning CM60912 Pressure Washer
Key Features
The first thing you’ll notice about the SIMPSON CM60912 is that it looks different than most other gas-powered pressure washers.
This washer stands upright, more like an electric pressure washer, so it’s easier to move around in some circumstances. But, with the added weight of a 149cc Simpson engine, it's a bit awkward in others, which takes some time to adapt.
For its price, the Simpson CM60912 is one of the most economical models available, including an onboard detergent tank, three quick-change nozzle heads that store on the unit, and a respectable 25-foot pressure hose that coils and stores nicely on the frame. The handle folds down over the frame, making the unit more compact and easier to store when not in use.
If you’re looking for a gas pressure washer, but don’t want to break the budget, the Simpson CM60912 is very affordable while sacrificing little power. It still has a rating of 2,400 PSI at 2 GPM, which is usually more than enough for any home cleaning projects.
Pros
Cons
7. Greenworks GPW1501 Pressure Washer
Key Features
In recent years, GREENWORKS created a splash in the home-appliance marketplace by producing environmentally friendly, affordable products – ranging from electric snowblowers to some of the best pressure washers for small category available.
The Greenworks GPW1501 1500 PSI doesn't have wheels, so it relies on its incredible light weight for mobility. At only 16 pounds, this pressure washer one of the lightest electrics around, but other versions of it do include wheels and an onboard hose reel, if you're willing to pay a little more.
The Greenworks Pressure washer throws water through a simplified quick-connect enabled wand at 1,500 PSI, using only 1.2 gallons per minute, which might not be enough power for more demanding jobs.
Two quick-change nozzles come with the unit, as does a detergent attachment. But its simple design means it can't do everything perfectly, so if you expect to use it for stubborn grime or more heavy-duty jobs, consider other options.
Pros
Cons
8. Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
Key Features
The SUN JOE SPX3000 MAX throws water at an impressive 1,450 working PSI, which is perfect for most medium-level cleaning jobs.
The Sun Joe SPX3000 Max sports two detachable detergent tanks, which enables you to swap between your favorite soaps easily, depending on the task at hand. What’s more, increasing the pressure is simple with the simple dial on the front.
This model also features a total-stop system that automatically shuts off the device when you release the trigger, saving you both energy and water. At just more than 31 pounds, it’s light enough to move wherever you need it.
This unit includes five quick-connect nozzle attachments and onboard cord and hose storage, though not in the form of a convenient hose reel.
As an electric pressure washer, the Sun Joe SPX3000 Max has plenty of power to handle most outdoor cleaning jobs such as lawn furniture, driveway, house siding, at the same time far quieter than gas-powered pressure washers.
Pros
Cons
9. AR Blue Clean AR383 Pressure Washer
Key Features
The AR BLUE CLEAN is another best pressure washer that comes virtually ready to use directly out of the box.
Like the SunJoe, it’s powerful enough to handle most outdoor cleaning chores without damaging your paint or stain finish. And it features the total-stop system that turns off the motor when you lift your finger from the trigger.
The AR Blue Clean adds a convenient, built-in hose reel to keep the 20-foot pressure hose stowed away yet accessible, without tangling. This pressure washer includes two different wands with quick-change attachments and a quick-change detachable detergent bottle instead of on-board detergent tanks.
Customers have, however, noted that the external hose attachment is difficult to link up because of its inconvenient placement. And this model might be underpowered for some tougher stains. The AR Blue is reasonably priced, though, so it's worth considering if you’re looking for something simple and ready-to-use.
Pros
Cons
10. Powerstroke PS80544B Pressure Washer
Key Features
Last but not least in our review is this entirely capable pressure washer from POWERSTROKE, which is capable of throwing 2.5 gallons per minute, at 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI).
This pressure washer comes loaded with a convenient onboard detergent tank and four quick-change spray nozzles, sitting atop stable tread-cap wheels that provide traction on challenging surfaces.
The accessories store conveniently onboard its lightweight frame, making setup and transport easy. The included hose is 25 feet long but might not be as durable as some of its competitors because it comprises standard PVC piping.
This Powerstroke pressure washer might not have everything you could want from a pressure washer, but it’s still terrific in terms of performance for medium-duty tasks.
Customer reviews do report that this model it needs regular maintenance and constant oil-level monitoring, which can be an issue for novice users. What’s more, its price tag is a bit high in its class.
Pros
Cons
10. Powerhouse International Pressure Washer (Red - Platinum Edition)
Key Features
Powerhouse International comes loaded with every sort of attachment you can imagine for any exterior cleaning task – from a spinning patio cleaner to a soft-bristle brush suitable for pressure washing your car. What’s more, it manages to find a place to store all of the attachments on the unit.
At 3,000 PSI, this pressure washer throws out a lot of water quickly, putting it in competition with other gas-powered units. And yet, this one is electric.
It comes with five quick-change spray tips (including a detergent bottle), plus a turbo nozzle, and an angle nozzle designed for cleaning rain gutters or the undercarriage of your car. This model also comes with two spray wands, one for its proprietary angle and turbo nozzles, and the other for universal quick-change heads.
At 35 feet, the hose on the Powerhouse International is one of the longest among electric pressure washers, allowing for extended range on more challenging tasks.
The engine and pump on this model come with ceramic pistons to take more heat than a conventional engine comfortably, plus an oil-alert signal, so you don’t have to monitor the oil level continuously.
Pros
Cons
Final Verdict: Our Overall Winner
SIMPSON MS60763-S MegaShot
If you’re considering buying a pressure washer, we recommend that you consider your potential uses before determining which model is right for you.
Gas-powered pressure washers offer mobility and high PSI, but at the expense of noise and regular maintenance. Meanwhile, electric pressure washers generally are less powerful but quieter and more useful for general cleaning.
Our top pick is the Simpson Cleaning MS60763-S MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer because it satisfies all the characteristics of a best pressure washer. It’s mobile and powerful – without being overpowering – and it comes in at a reasonable price that won’t break your budget.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Pressure Washer
Pressure Washers: The Basics
Pressure washers are devices that employ a motorized system to concentrate and direct water in a high-pressure spray. They work much like a spray attachment on a garden hose, except the motor runs a pump to accelerate the water delivery through a tighter space (called the wand.) Once concentrated and pumped, the water hits a surface faster — and with far more force — than a garden hose, effectively blasting away dirt and grime.
The motor on a pressure washer might be powered by gas or electricity. Gas-powered engines usually are more powerful and robust, giving the water stream a more potent force than do electric motors. Gas versions also are more expensive and louder, but they are more mobile than electric washers.
Electric-powered pressure washers typically don’t deliver as much energy as gas-powered options, but they generally are quieter and don’t require as much routine maintenance. Electric power washers are capable of most ordinary exterior household tasks, including cleaning your driveway, lawn furniture and washing down your deck. But even with their long cords and hoses, the electric washers don’t have the range of a gas-powered engine.
Gas Pressure Washers
When professional contractors go into the field to perform a heavy-duty cleaning job on a commercial or residential property, they typically use a gas-powered pressure washer.
These washers operate with potent gas-fueled engines that run the water pump, so they push a higher volume of water faster than simple electric motors. What’s more, because they are not tethered to an outlet, gas washers are far more mobile, despite their additional weight.
Unfortunately, gas pressure washers also have the same issues that come with any standard engine. They require continuous maintenance, which can be daunting for novice users. Plus, you must keep them fueled and oiled, so the engine doesn’t shut off or overheat.
Gas-powered pressure washers also are extremely noisy compared to their electric counterparts. The noise might not matter if you’re in a rural area, but it can be unpleasant for neighbors in a cul-de-sac or other urban setting.
Electric Pressure Washers
For most exterior home projects, an electric pressure washer is the best bet, though it doesn’t come without its share of drawbacks. The motor of an electric pressure washer is run, of course, by electricity. So, the range of your pressure washer depends significantly on the number and placement of exterior outlets.
Note: You should NEVER use an extension cord with an electric pressure washer. Cables for electric washers are specially insulated to be impervious to water, whereas extension cords often are not. You risk serious injury if you use an extension cord with your pressure washer.
This kind of power washer usually don’t have as much power as their gas-powered competitors, though some come close. Their unique, upright design makes them fairly mobile within the range of the power cord and the hose attachment. But don’t expect to do many large projects, such as extensive siding cleaning.
On the other hand, electric pressure washers usually are far more affordable than gas-powered models, and much quieter. If you need only light household maintenance, such as car washing or patio cleaning, they’re the perfect option. The more powerful ones sometimes can do all the work of a gas pressure washer — including stripping paint — without the need for constant maintenance.
Measuring Intensity
Both types of pressure washers have their own set of features, drawbacks, and advantages to consider. But they're both measured by the industry standards of pounds per square inch (PSI) and gallons per minute (GPM).
PSI is a measure of how much force the pump forces on the water when it comes out of the nozzle head. The higher the PSI, the stronger the water spray is when it hits the surface, which translates to more cleaning power. In fact, higher PSI models can deliver water so fast and hard that it can damage the surface to which you aim it if you're not careful.
All pressure washers come with proprietary methods of modulating PSI to avoid damaging surfaces and provide a bit of variation to control the water. Most of the time, specialized spray nozzles help modulate the volume and speed of the spray. These nozzles usually are measured in angles of diffusion.
Lower angles of diffusion, such as a zero-angle nozzle, means the spray is far more concentrated. The more concentrated the water, the harder it will strike the surface. So, at zero, you're likely to get the full force of your unit's pounds per square inch (PSI) directed in a focused blast at a narrower target.
Power Washer with extremely high PSI pressure – including industrial models – can blast holes in some surfaces and cut through them when you have them on concentrated settings.
Higher-angled nozzles diffuse the water and diminish the full pressure over a wider area, making them safer for specific materials and tasks. That said, a power washer with high PSI – even with a 40-degree nozzle (which is standard to clean siding) – still delivers a tremendous amount of water very quickly, so take great care when using them.
GPM is a measure of the total volume of water running through the pump when it’s triggered. You can still have very high-pressure products firing at a low GPM, but units with both high PSI and GPM are stronger (but also less environmentally friendly).
For most typical home-and-garden uses, a standard PSI of between 1,500 and 3,000 is useful and appropriate. The level of PSI you trigger depends on the task at hand. Stubborn oil stains in the driveway require a higher PSI, while a layer of dirt on your patio often requires little more than a standard garden-hose attachment.
Power, Pressure, and Materials
The best pressure washers are also the best power washers. Power washers employ a heating element that warms the water before application. Much like washing dishes and dealing with stubborn grease and food, hot water is a better solvent than cold, loosening the particles by triggering their expansion at a cellular level.
When you use a pressure washer, think about the task at hand and the material at which you’re spraying. Some surfaces are more appropriate for power washing than others. And some pressure washers can damage certain materials more easily than others.
We recommend that you NEVER use a pressure washer on a porous material like asphalt roofing tiles, sandstone, or unpainted clay. If you absolutely must, take care to diffuse the pressure with a higher-angled nozzle, or you risk washing away the material. High PSI pressure washers destroy the granules of roofing shingles and work their way into the structural integrity of porous surfaces, causing them to disintegrate, much like water melts sandcastles on a beach.
Some pressure washers with high PSI can strip paint, too. Unless you’re trying to strip paint, take care around painted and stained surfaces, including painted exterior walls or wooden decks. Adjust the nozzle and pressure accordingly if you don’t want to take off a layer of paint. On the other hand — if removing paint is your goal — be sure you choose a pressure washer with a high enough PSI to make that happen.
Which Pressure Washer is Right for Me?
Ultimately, the type of pressure washer you purchase depends significantly on what you intend to clean.
If you have small home projects, such as keeping the garage and deck tidy or washing down patio furniture, you won’t need a fully mobile, gas-powered monster that has the potential to damage what you’re trying to clean.
On the other hand, if you have a large house with extensive siding that you want to clean regularly, a fully-capable gas-powered unit might be the best pressure washer for you.
Peruse our Best Pressure Washer Reviews below to get a better idea of how a pressure washer can help you and assist with your home-improvement projects. Always consider the safety and integrity of the tasks you want to perform, and plan accordingly, so you don’t end up with a simple project that spirals out of control. Not every pressure washer is suitable for every job.
