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Stihl BG 86 vs BG 56 C-E - The differences

Further down the page, you'll find some explanations regarding the key similarities and differences between the Stihl BG 56 C-E and the Stihl BG 86.

But before checking out these explanations, here's a table that summarizes the main pros of each of these 2 leaf blowers:

Stihl BG 56 C-EStihl BG 86
Stihl BG 56 C-EStihl BG 86
  • Easy2Start technology
  • Lighter
  • Bigger fuel tank
  • Significantly less expensive
  • Higher CFM
  • Higher MPH

Common specs comparison

Make & handling

  • As the BG 56 C-E and the BG 86 are both Stihl blowers, they benefit from the same level of quality and attention to detail. However, the Stihl BG 56 C-E features the Easy2Start technology.
  • Being handheld blowers, these two products ensure exceptional mobility while in use.
  • Both products are gas-powered blowers - gas is a reliable power source which you can refill in a matter of seconds, offering you the freedom of movement to tackle larger outdoor spaces with ease.

CFM & MPH

  • The Stihl BG 86 with a CFM of 444 slightly exceeds the 412 CFM of the Stihl BG 56 C-E. Thus, in comparison, you may find that the former is able to move more leaves per minute.
  • The Stihl BG 86's MPH of 190 beats the 159 MPH of the Stihl BG 56 C-E. It therefore expels air faster and should aid you blowing leaves on grass or lifting heavy debris (acorns, etc.) and wet leaves more effectively.

Weight & Noise rating

  • The weight of the Stihl BG 86, at 9.7 lbs, slightly exceeds that of the 9.3 lbs Stihl BG 56 C-E, which means you may experience slightly less fatigue and find it easier to maneuver during prolonged use.
  • At 70 dB, both devices are equally neighbor-friendly, ensuring that neither would cause undue disturbance, and equally gentle on your ears during operation.

Engine specs comparison

  • The Stihl BG 56 C-E's fuel tank has a volume of 18.3 fl.oz., exceeding the 14.9 fl.oz. of the Stihl BG 86. Therefore, you may store more fuel in the device and theoretically operate it longer, if their engines are equally demanding.
  • With matching engine displacements of 27.2cc, these products likely share similar fuel consumption rates per stroke, translating to comparable performance levels.
  • Both leaf blowers come with 2-cycle engines, which necessitate an oil/fuel mix for operation.

Other features comparison

Vacuum ability

With the capability to function as leaf vacuums, both products provide users with an efficient and tidy solution for managing leaf piles. This dual-purpose design empowers users to switch between blowing and vacuuming modes with ease, simplifying their gardening endeavors.

TL;DR

Stihl BG 56 C-EStihl BG 86
Stihl BG 56 C-EStihl BG 86
  • Easy2Start technology
  • Lighter
  • Bigger fuel tank
  • Significantly less expensive
  • Higher CFM
  • Higher MPH
2 Comments
  1. Seems like there is more to know in this comparison as they are too similar to justify the much higher price of the 86. Maybe the 86 is easier/less expensive to repair, such as a top-end rebuild?

    • Yeah this fails to mention the 86’s anti-vibration system and lock on throttle.. two items that would be a consideration for professionals who would use this for many more hours per day than the homeowner…

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