An electric tiller is a gardening tool that uses an electricity-powered motor and rotating metal blades known as tines to break up soil in your yard. These machines can make the difference between a lush, green lawn and a struggling, patchy yard. Electric tillers can also help with preparing the soil of your garden beds. With many options available, our team researched the best electric tillers to help you find the right machine.
Key Takeaways
- The LawnMaster corded electric tiller is our top pick because of its powerful 13.5-amp motor, 18-inch width and 9-inch depth of cut, and mechanical overload protection.
- Electric tillers cost $100–$350 on average, depending on the features and power outputs. Smaller, less powerful tillers cost less than larger, more robust units.
- When shopping for an electric tiller, consider the cultivating radius, power output, and corded versus cordless design. Small, cordless tillers work well for small flower beds, while larger, corded tillers can work on soil beds that span several yards in length and width.
Top 5 Electric Tillers
We compared dozens of electric tillers available on Amazon to help you decide which unit is best for your needs. Here’s our list of top picks:
- LawnMaster Corded Electric Tiller: Best Overall
- Earthwise Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator: Best Value
- Alloyman 20V Cordless Tiller/Cultivator: Best Cordless Option
- Sun Joe Electric Tiller/Cultivator: Best Positioning Control
- BILT HARD Electric Garden Rototiller: Most Powerful
Compare Top Electric Tillers
The table below highlights our top picks for the best electric tiller options.
| Product | Image | Weight | Cutting Width | Cutting Depth | Design | Tines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LawnMaster Corded Electric TillerCheck Price |  | 24.6 pounds | 18 inches | 9 inches | Corded | 6 |
Earthwise Corded Electric Tiller/CultivatorCheck Price | | 28.9 pounds | 16 inches | 8 inches | Corded | 6 |
Alloyman 20V Cordless Tiller/CultivatorCheck Price | | 14.4 pounds | 9 inches | 6.6 inches | Cordless | 4 |
Sun Joe Electric Tiller/CultivatorCheck Price |  | 27.1 pounds | 16 inches | 8 inches | Corded | 6 |
BILT HARD Electric Garden RototillerCheck Price |  | 25 pounds | 18 inches | 8.7 inches | Corded | 6 |
Our Reviews of the Best Electric Tillers
We provide a quick breakdown of each of our top five electric tillers below, highlighting key features, pros, cons, and the type of soil each unit is best suited for.
Best Overall
LawnMaster Corded Electric Tiller
Good for: Large garden beds and small lawns, thanks to its 13.5-amp motor and 18-inch cutting width
The LawnMaster corded electric tiller is our top choice because of its robust tilling power, wide cutting radius, and ergonomic design. LawnMaster’s tiller is the lightest unit of the corded options we chose, making it easy to push through soil. It provides the best value among all the tillers we reviewed, as it costs under $170 and offers the widest cutting width and depth.
Pros and Cons of LawnMaster Corded Electric Tiller
- Cuts the widest and deepest of all the tillers we reviewed
- Weighs under 25 pounds, which is light for a 6-tine electric tiller
- Easily stores away with a compact storage design
- Comes in corded versions only
- Has a larger footprint that may not suit everyone
Key Features
- Weight: 24.6 pounds
- Cutting Width: 18 inches
- Cutting Depth: 9 inches
- Design: Corded
What People Are Saying About The LawnMaster Corded Electric Tiller
Amazon customers who like the LawnMaster tiller have praised the machine’s power and build quality, with multiple online reviews noting that it lasts for several years. Others appreciate the value of the unit since it performs well for under $170. Customers who disliked the unit complained about the speed and cutting ability of the machine’s steel tines.
Best Value
Earthwise Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator
Good for: Working against hard, clay-infused soil due to its robust steel tines
The Earthwise corded electric tiller and cultivator is another solid choice, built for large garden beds and small lawns. Its 13.5-amp motor can handle tough, rocky soil with ease. The unit is also easy to assemble right out of the box and has adjustable cultivating widths of 11–16 inches.
Pros and Cons of Earthwise Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator
- Easy to start and operate with a push-to-start button and single-lever operating switch
- Has a powerful 13.5-amp electric battery that can power through various soil types
- Features adjustable tines
- Weighs nearly 30 pounds, which is heavier than most of our other picks
- Requires an extension cord for large gardens
Key Features
- Weight: 28.9 pounds
- Cutting Width: 16 inches
- Cutting Depth: 8 inches
- Design: Corded
What People Are Saying About The Earthwise Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator
Customers who like the Earthwise corded tiller reported being satisfied with the ease of setup and use of the machine. We also found many Amazon reviews praising the unit’s powerful motor, with several customers noting it cuts through hard soil easily. Other customers, however, have reported mixed longevity of the tiller motor.
Best Cordless Option
Alloyman 20V Cordless Tiller/Cultivator
Good for: Small or raised garden beds, since its handheld design allows you to reach areas larger units can’t
The Alloyman 20V cordless tiller and cultivator is the only battery-powered unit we included in our top picks. It comes with two 20-volt (V) batteries that have a 30-minute runtime, making this tiller a good choice for quick and convenient soil cultivation. Since it’s a handheld tiller, you can use it on raised soil beds, which is harder to do with a push tiller.
Pros and Cons of Alloyman 20V Cordless Tiller/Cultivator
- Runs with no cords, which can make tilling easier and more convenient
- Has a 45-day, 100% satisfaction guarantee from the vendor
- Features an ergonomic handle design and a built-in safety switch
- Has the smallest cutting radius of all the tillers in this review
- Is the most expensive unit on our list
Key Features
- Weight: 14.4 pounds
- Cutting Width: 9 inches
- Cutting Depth: 6.6 inches
- Design: Corded
What People Are Saying About The Alloyman 20V Cordless Tiller/Cultivator
We found that many Amazon reviewers like the ergonomics and lightweight nature of the Alloyman 20V tiller. Some customers even reported an extended battery life that exceeds the Alloyman’s 30-minute runtime. Those customers who disliked the product said the unit is underpowered compared to gas-powered handheld tillers.
Best Positioning Control
Sun Joe Electric Tiller/Cultivator
Good for: Medium-sized soil beds and light, clay-infused dirt, as its power output is on the lower end
The Sun Joe electric tiller and cultivator is another corded option we recommend. It has a 12-amp electric motor, making it suitable for softer, medium-sized soil beds. The Sun Joe tiller also features a foldable handle to facilitate the transport and storage of the unit.
Pros and Cons of Sun Joe Electric Tiller/Cultivator
- Can cut up to eight inches deep and 16 inches wide of soil in a single pass
- Has a low-maintenance design and easy-to-clean steel tines
- Features adjustable wheels that allow better maneuvering across tight spaces
- Isn’t suitable for hard or rocky soil
- Provides less value than other corded tillers in our list
Key Features
- Weight: 27.1 pounds
- Cutting Width: 16 inches
- Cutting Depth: 8 inches
- Design: Corded
What People Are Saying About The Sun Joe Electric Tiller/Cultivator
While most Amazon customers were happy with their purchase, some reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the overall tilling power of the Sun Joe unit on harder soils. Others complained about the unit’s steel tines, saying they bend easily when they hit a rock. That said, the majority of customers enjoyed the quietness of the machine and its effectiveness on regular soil.
Most Powerful
BILT HARD Electric Garden Rototiller
The BILT HARD has the largest electric motor of the tillers we reviewed. We like that this tiller only weighs 25 pounds, which is surprising given its larger footprint and motor. It can spin its six tines at speeds of up to 380 revolutions per minute (RPM), making it ideal for tightly packed, tough soil. This unit also has double switches as an added safety feature to prevent accidental starts.
Pros and Cons of BILT HARD Electric Garden Rototiller
- Has a 15-amp motor designed for the toughest soil
- Weighs less than most electric tillers of similar size
- Can till lawns, orchards, and courtyards
- Some customer reviews mention build-quality issues
- May have trouble handling large gardens, according to some customers
Key Features
- Weight: 25 pounds
- Cutting Width: 18 inches
- Cutting Depth: 8.7 inches
- Design: Corded
What People Are Saying About The BILT HARD Electric Garden Rototiller
Most customers on Amazon reported being satisfied with the performance and value of the BILT HARD electric tiller. Other reviewers appreciated the lightweight nature of this unit. However, some customers disliked the tiller’s build quality, with several complaining that the unit broke after a few uses.
Electric Tiller Buying Guide
Whether you’re an avid gardener or hobbyist, an electric model tiller makes turning and loosening soil and mixing compost easier than ever. It’s a good gardening tool to have if your garden requires frequent tilling. Renting a tiller is inefficient if you need the machine frequently since the fees add up, transportation is difficult, and you’re on a deadline to return it.
By purchasing an electric tiller, you don’t need to worry about additional fees or pressing deadlines. Below, we explain some of the top elements to consider when you’re buying an electric tiller for yourself.
Tines
Electric tillers typically come with four tines, although you can also find models with two or six tines. The tines are generally located in the rear, center, or front of the machine. Rear-tine tillers are powerful, so they’re useful for most types of soil.
On the other hand, front tines are lighter and easier to maneuver. These are the most common types of tines on electric tillers. Finally, center-tine tillers are the least common, but provide a balance between the power of rear-tine tillers and the maneuverability of front-tine tillers.
Size
Larger, wider tillers require fewer passes through your soil. However, the bigger a tiller is, the more cumbersome it is to operate and maneuver. Most tillers are in the 9–20-inch range in terms of width. Some are even adjustable, allowing for more customization based on whether you wish to till a bigger radius or have greater mobility around turns.
Speed
Revolutions per minute (RPM) measures the speed at which the tines on the electric tiller move. The higher the RPM rating, the quicker the machine churns through the soil. Tillers that have outputs of 200 RPM or more are suitable for the majority of soils, but some devices can operate as high as 400 RPM.
Power Source
You can buy electric tillers in either corded or cordless models. Corded models are more powerful, but have less flexibility in terms of where you can use them, as they require a wall outlet or extension cord. Cordless units are more convenient and typically handheld, making them an ideal option for hard-to-reach spaces. Cordless tillers lack the power of corded versions and are generally more expensive.
Cultivators vs. Tillers
If your garden is already established and requires light maintenance, consider a cultivator. It’s also lightweight and compact, which is useful if you have limited strength and mobility. A garden tiller is better for heavy-duty projects. It provides more power than a cultivator, allowing you to establish gardens of all sizes or maintain small lawns and medium to large gardens.
The table below compares a cultivator versus a tiller, noting the uses and what each unit is best for:
| Unit Type | Uses | Best Suited For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultivator | Maintaining soil structure, incorporating fertilizers, and light weeding | Established garden soil | $90–$300 |
| Tiller | Initial garden soil prep, breaking up hard ground, and starting new garden beds | Creating new garden beds | $100–$400 |
Electric Tiller Uses
Besides preparing the soil, an electric tiller offers several valuable uses for maintaining your garden efficiently. The list below highlights some of the additional uses of an electric tiller:
- Breaking ground: Electric tillers excel at breaking up older soil and incorporating mulch to prepare for planting, or cutting through hard-packed dirt to create new garden beds and lush lawn growth.
- Tending: These units can also loosen the topsoil in established gardens, which can help nutrients reach plant roots.
- Weeding: Electric tillers are also good for weeding a patchy lawn or garden since their compact design allows them to fit between rows and uproot weeds without disturbing crops.
- Composting: A use case that isn’t typically advertised by electric tiller companies is composting. An electric tiller can incorporate compost piles into your soil, evenly distributing heat, worms, and activators for faster decomposition.
FAQs About Electric Tillers
Will an electric tiller cut through grass?
Yes, an electric tiller can break through grass, but it performs best when you first mow or manually remove thicker patches of grass. A tiller’s tines can slice through shallow root systems and loosen the soil underneath. For dense turf or heavily compacted areas, making multiple passes will improve results. Electric tillers work more efficiently when you prep the area rather than relying on brute force alone.
How deep can an electric tiller dig?
Most electric tillers reach depths between six and nine inches, which is enough for most gardening tasks. Some lightweight models dig a little shallower, while heavy-duty versions may go deeper. You can control the depth by adjusting the wheels or guides, depending on the tiller model. For deeper cultivation, multiple passes often help loosen the soil further.
How much does an electric tiller cost?
Electric tillers generally cost between $100 and $400, depending on power, size, and features. Corded models typically fall on the lower end of the price range, while cordless or high-torque versions tend to cost more. You also need to factor in the cost of extension cords or spare batteries, if applicable. Overall, electric tillers typically offer a budget-friendly alternative to gas models.
What is the benefit of purchasing an electric tiller over a gas-powered model?
There are several benefits of buying an electric tiller over a gas-powered version. Electric tillers require less maintenance, while a gas-powered unit needs oil changes, gas refills, and occasional carburetor cleaning. Electric tillers also start with the push of a button, making them easier to use for beginners or casual gardeners. For small to mid-sized yards, electric tillers provide sufficient power to handle most soil preparation tasks without the bulk or noise of gas-powered machines.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best electric tiller recommendations, we used several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of electric tillers with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and unsatisfied buyers.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what real customers have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at online reviews and videos of electric tillers from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
- Final product selection: We fine-tuned our list by first making sure we were including the most up-to-date models. From there, we compared each model’s features and selected best-in-class options for a variety of homeowners, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
