The Powerful ECHO PB-9010T Backpack Blower: A Review

The ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower Exceeds Expectations

Whenever we encounter a tool that claims to be the most powerful, we can’t help but put it to the test. This time, it’s the ECHO PB-9010T Backpack Blower, and it has truly surpassed our expectations!

Pros

• Unmatched power, surpassing any blower we’ve tested before.
• Impressive specs: 1110 CFM, 220 MPH, and a 48 Newton rating (spoiler alert: it exceeded these numbers in our tests).
• Large 83.8-ounce fuel tank.
• Comfortable back pad with active airflow.

Cons

• Beltless design.

ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower Performance

ECHO has started with a 79.9cc engine and fine-tuned it to deliver an incredible 1110 CFM and 220 MPH. In certification testing, this translates to a force of 48.0 Newtons.

However, our own tests yielded even higher results. It reached a peak of 52.0 Newtons on our gauge, a full 4 Newtons higher. Keep in mind that environmental conditions can affect blower power, and our tests were not conducted in a controlled lab setup. But whether you’re interested in the rated 48.0 Newtons or our measured 52.0 Newtons, there’s no denying that this is the most powerful backpack blower we’ve tested to date.

For comparison, Stihl’s impressive BR 800 Magnum managed only 41.0 Newtons in our tests. While still great, the ECHO PB-9010T’s 52.0 Newtons surpasses it by a significant margin.

You can actually perform basic cleanup tasks at lower throttle settings, and the ECHO’s cruise control feature helps with that. It allows you to easily navigate through wet grass, leaves, or even caked soil on asphalt and driveways.

As expected from any gas blower, it generates some noise, so it’s recommended to wear ear protection. At the lowest throttle setting, we measured 83 decibels at the ear, while at wide-open throttle, it reached 103 decibels.

ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower Design Notes

ECHO PB-9010H vs. PB-9010T

This blower is available in two models. We tested the PB-9010T, which features trigger throttle control. The PB-9010H, on the other hand, has the throttle located on your left hip.

PB-9010T Startup and Control

If it’s been a while since you last started the blower (or it’s your first time using it), simply find the red choke switch above the gas tank and push it down. Press the lower primer bulb a few times to get the fuel flowing, then push the cruise control down to the low throttle/start position. Pull the cord a few times, and the blower will come to life.

When you pull the throttle trigger or push the cruise control further down, the choke automatically engages, allowing you to start working without worrying about resetting it.

Once it’s in continuous service, you can skip the choke and simply set the throttle to start, pull the cord, and go. Based on our experience so far, this is the preferred method of starting.

Fuel and Tank

ECHO recommends using gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher. It is fine to use fuel with 10% ethanol, but avoid fuel with 15% ethanol. It’s important to mix the fuel with two-stroke oil in a 50:1 ratio. Alternatively, you can use pre-mixed premium fuel for cleaner operation, although it’s more expensive. Using premium fuel should result in fewer problems throughout the lifespan of the blower.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 83.8 ounces, and its translucent design makes it easy to monitor the oil level.

Harness

The harness features padded shoulder straps with ample adjustment options, as well as an additional adjustment point on the back. It is worth noting that there is no hip belt, which could have alleviated some of the strain caused by the blower’s 26.7-pound dry weight. This might make a difference if you’re using the blower for extended periods on a large campus, as opposed to shorter residential lawn care tasks.

However, the back pad is exceptionally well-designed. The padding is dense enough to prevent air passages from clogging, and you can actually feel the air intakes pulling air across your back as you work. It is also soft enough to provide a comfortable experience.

Air Filter

ECHO conveniently places the air filter on top of the engine. The cover is secured by two latches, making it easy to check and replace the filter as needed.

Additional Features

• Metal ring reduces nozzle wear.
• Posi-loc design ensures a secure pipe connection.

ECHO PB-9010 vs. PB-8010 Quick Comparison

As seen in the chart, the two blowers are very similar. Opting for the PB-9010T adds a few pounds of dry weight for enhanced performance. The PB-8010 is already a powerful blower, so upgrading may not be necessary right away. However, the general rule of thumb is that the stronger, the better.

ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower Price

Both versions of this blower are priced at $629.99. Commercial users are covered by a 2-year warranty, while consumers enjoy a 5-year warranty. It can be challenging to find these products online from large Echo retailers, so exercise caution when purchasing from Amazon as some sellers overcharge compared to the MSRP.

The Bottom Line

The ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower lives up to its claim of delivering top-notch power, exceeding our expectations. If exceptional blowing power is your number one priority, then this is the blower for you, without a doubt!

ECHO PB-9010 Backpack Blower Specifications

• Model: Echo PB-9010T
• Fuel: 50:1 gasoline/oil blend
• Engine Displacement: 79.9cc
• Nozzle Air Volume: 1110 CFM
• Maximum Air Velocity at Nozzle: 220 mph
• Carburetor: Diaphragm
• Noise: 80 dB(A)
• Boot System: Standard
• Dry Weight: 26.7 lbs.
• Fuel Capacity: 83.8 fl. ounce.
• Transparent fuel tank: Standard
• Auxiliary handle: Standard
• Newtons at nozzle: 48 N
• Warranty: 2 years commercial / 5 years consumer
• Price: $629.99

Learn more about ECHO blowers here.