7 Best Pressure Washers, Tested by Experts
These versatile power cleaners are up for all kinds of dirty work.
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The longer you have a pressure washer, the more essential it becomes. Over the past five years, experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have logged more than 100 hours testing pressure washers on everything from mildew-covered decks to grease-stained driveways. We've cleaned patio furniture, vinyl siding, garage floors, and even cars, using the wide variety of nozzles and attachments that many brands now include for specialty cleaning.
This guide is built from that hands-on experience. Whether you need an electric model for weekend cleaning or a gas-powered machine for bigger jobs, we’ve selected the best pressure washers across multiple categories and price points. Some excel at removing years of grime from stone surfaces, while others are built specifically for delicate tasks like rinsing down a car without damaging the finish. Just like our top-tested tools in other categories, such as hedge trimmers and wet/dry vacs, every model featured here has been pushed, sprayed and stress-tested to earn its place on the list.
Sun Joe 2,030 Max
Pros
- Well priced
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- 20-foot hose is on the shorter side
Type: Electric | Maximum Pressure: 2,030 PSI | Flow rate: 1.76 GPM | Hose length: 20 ft | Weight: 24.3 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes (dual)
Looking for an affordable pressure washer that's up for most exterior cleaning tasks? Our experts tapped this Sun Joe as our best overall option. In addition to the excellent price, it's one of the lightest models we tested, weighing in at 24.3 pounds. So it was quite easy to move around in our tests. As for performance, it delivers 2,030 PSI, with a maximum flow rate of 1.76 GPM.
During our testing, we liked that the dual detergent tanks could house separate cleaning solvents. It's helpful to be able to switch easily between the two, since you might not want to use the same cleaner on your car as you use for the deck. Meanwhile, the five quick-connect spray tips allow for versatility so you can complete an array of cleaning tasks, from decking and siding to cars and boats. One quibble from our testers was the relatively short 20-foot hose, which limits the reach on large properties.
RYOBI 1900 PSI Pressure Washer
Pros
- Powerful for it's size
- Great value for a mid-range unit
Cons
- Only three nozzle tips included
Type: Electric | Maximum Pressure: 1,900 PSI | Flow rate: 1.2 GPM | Hose length: 20 ft | Weight: 22.7 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes
This is another well-priced pressure washer to consider, along with the best overall Sun Joe. With a modest 1,900 PSI and 1.2 GPM, the machine is best for smaller jobs, like clearing dirt and mildew from your deck or washing your car.
The telescoping handle and lightweight 22.7-pound construction make for easy handling. We also liked the compact design and vertical storage, both of which we noted during our testing. "It's a nice feature if space in the shed or garage is limited," one tester said.
We wish it included more than three nozzle tips, but Ryobi offers a wide variety of pressure washer attachments to make cleaning your car, windows or patios much more effective. For gentle cleaning jobs, this pressure washer stands out as one of our favorites, but opt for a stronger model for tougher jobs like cleaning driveways or fences.
Greenworks Pro Brushless 3000 PSI Pressure Washer
Pros
- 3,000 PSI is designed for the toughest cleaning jobs
- Convenient onboard tool storage
- Versatile accessories
Cons
- Pricey
Type: Electric | Maximum Pressure: 3,000 PSI | Flow rate: 1.1 GPM | Hose length: 25 ft | Weight: 52 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes
At 3,000 PSI, this is the most powerful electric pressure washer we have ever tested (some gas-powered models get up above 4,000 PSI). "It's a serious piece of power equipment," one tester noted. "Extremely durable, and enough power to blast through our toughest tests, including cleaning a brick patio covered in several years of mildew and muck."
Though the Greenworks unit is up for any task, our experts caution that it's more of a commitment than most pressure washers. For starters, it's on the expensive side. It also took a full hour to assemble, compared with the five minutes or less of simpler models. And even with the wheeled design, transporting the 52-pound machine takes brawn, and finding room to store it could be even trickier.
If none of those issues are dealbreakers for you, the Greenworks will not disappoint when it comes to cleaning power and easy, intuitive operation. Our testers were also impressed by the relatively quiet operation of the brushless motor, especially since the pressure washer packs so much oomph. There are plenty of accessories and even onboard tool storage.
Pros
- Versatile design, including an extra-long hose
- Powerful cleaning power
- Durable design
Cons
- Heavier than most models
Type: Electric | Maximum Pressure: 2,000 PSI | Flow rate: 1.2 GPM | Hose length: 23 ft | Weight: 46.7 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes
This 2,000-PSI electric pressure washer from Stihl was a 2023 Good Housekeeping Home Reno Award winner, on the strength of its versatile design and superb performance. Besides packing plenty of power for any exterior surface, it has the features our expert judges look for, including a large onboard detergent tank and an ample 23-foot-long hose to extend the reach of your washing around the house.
In testing, the Stihl proved extremely easy to assemble, with its sensible design and clear manual. “The hose on the unit stores easily on the wheel, unlike other models I've used that are prone to tangling and kinking,” one tester observed. Weighing nearly 50 pounds, the unit is on the hefty side, but wheels and a handle make it easy to maneuver. The brushless motor should ensure years of service by putting less wear and tear on the mechanics.
Craftsman V20 1,500 PSI Pressure Washer
Pros
- Eliminates the power cord
- Suction hose can draw water from a bucket
- Onboard detergent tank
Cons
- Not as powerful as corded electric or gas models
Type: Battery | Maximum Pressure: 1,500 PSI | Flow rate: 1.2 GPM | Hose length: 20 ft | Weight: 32 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes
Battery-powered operation is a relatively new development in the pressure washer category. Other power tools we've tested in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab have run on batteries for years now with impressive results. We anticipate the same for pressure washers. The Craftsman is an example of the possibilities. While the first cordless pressure washers maxed out around 500 PSI, the Craftsman boasts 1,500 PSI, so it can tackle tougher jobs like cleaning decks and fences, though it might struggle with the most stubborn tasks, like an oil-stained concrete driveway.
Not having to contend with a power cord is a nice convenience, plus it has an onboard detergent tank. The device goes even further with a self-priming mode and suction hose that lets you draw from any freshwater source, including a bucket filled with water from the tap. "A five-gallon bucket was enough water to pressure-wash an entire SUV, running the equipment for close to 20 minutes on low speed," one tester said. The total runtime of the twin 20-volt batteries is about an hour on low speed and about half as long on high speed. As a result, our experts say the Craftsman is best for quick, light-duty cleaning tasks.
Greenworks Hybrid 60V Electric Pressure Washer
Pros
- Dual power mode offers both battery and corded operation
- Impressive 3000 PSI performance
Cons
- Heavier than basic electric models due to added battery components
Type: Battery and corded | Maximum Pressure: 3,000 PSI | Flow rate: 2.0 GPM | Hose length: 25 ft | Weight: 34 lbs | Detergent tank: Yes
This dual-power pressure washer from Greenworks delivers the best of both worlds, giving you the flexibility to run on cordless 60V battery power or plug into a standard outlet when needed. Testers praised the setup process, noting it was quick and intuitive right out of the box, with the unit’s large wheels making it easy to maneuver across driveways or yards.
With 3000 PSI and 2.0 GPM, this model packs serious cleaning power. It's more than enough to handle driveways, siding, decks and dirty vehicles. In battery mode, the included dual 5.0 Ah batteries held up well, maintaining strong output through two 20-minute cleaning sessions without noticeable loss in pressure. The dual battery system is on the heavy side. For longer jobs or more intense cleaning, switching to corded mode ensures uninterrupted power.
This pressure washer is part of Greenworks’ growing 60V ecosystem, which is a plus for users already invested in their outdoor tools. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants cordless freedom for lighter jobs, but still needs the muscle of a corded setup when tackling tougher surfaces.
Pros
- Built-in hose reel
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Lacks the pressure needed for heavy-duty jobs
Type: Battery | Maximum Pressure: 1,500 PSI | Flow rate: 1 GPM | Hose length: 16 ft | Weight: 13 lbs | Detergent tank: No (but has built-in detergent hose)
This unit from Stihl is a lightweight, battery-powered pressure washer designed for small-scale cleaning tasks around the home. It’s ideal for rinsing off patio furniture, bikes, garden tools or siding that needs a refresh but doesn’t require the force of a gas or high-PSI electric model. One of the standout features is its built-in hose reel, which testers appreciated for making hose storage and handling much more manageable. It helps streamline setup and cleanup, which is often the most frustrating part of using a pressure washer.
While it doesn’t have the PSI needed for removing deep-set oil stains or stripping old paint, it performs well for day-to-day outdoor cleaning. The unit is easy to store thanks to its compact size and works especially well for homeowners already using Stihl's AK battery platform.
Other pressure washers we recommend
Worx 1,700 PSI Electric Pressure Washer
Lightweight and compact at just 16 pounds, this budget-friendly model impressed testers with its easy setup, simple controls and solid 1,700 PSI performance. It was the easiest unit to move and store, making it ideal for smaller jobs or transport to different sites. The downsides are limited features. It includes only two nozzles, no soap dispenser and few accessories. Still, it’s a smart pick for beginners or anyone needing a portable, no-frills pressure washer.
Westinghouse WPX2700 Gas Powered Pressure Washer
With 2,700 PSI and a sturdy gas-powered engine, this Westinghouse model offers plenty of cleaning power for most outdoor jobs. It weighs 63 pounds, but the upright design and 12-inch wheels make it easier to move than many gas units. While its PSI is modest for gas, it’s more than enough for driveways, siding, and patio furniture and the overall build feels solid and dependable.
How we test the best pressure washers
Product experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute keep constant tabs on the marketplace to identify the pressure washers you're most likely to find on store shelves and online. Hands-on testing focuses on the brands that have performed the best and proved to be the most reliable through years of pressure washer tests, along with other outdoor power equipment.
In the past five years, we've reviewed more than 30 new pressure washers. When it came to evaluating specific models for this round-up, our engineers and product testers spent 100 hours reviewing hundreds of technical and performance data points. Hands-on testing involved pressure-washing an array of real-world surfaces, including decks, patios, siding, assorted pavements, cars and outdoor furniture.
While overall cleaning ability was our main criteria, we also considered ease of use, like handling and maneuverability, swapping out nozzles and adding cleaning solutions. And we paid attention to noise, since pressure washers are often operated for long stretches at a time. Finally, our engineers evaluated general construction, such as materials and fittings, to highlight models that should deliver the longest service.
Car cleaning is another component of our pressure washer test. Models with detergent tanks and soft-bristle brush attachments are well suited to the task.
What to look for when shopping for the best pressure washers
All pressure washers work by forcing water through a concentrated nozzle. But there are differences in how they're powered, as well as other factors related to performance. Here's what to consider:
✔️ Power source: There are three main options — electric, gas and battery — and your choice will affect power and convenience.
- Electric pressure washers are the best choice for the vast majority of homeowners. The plug-in machines are suited to an array of projects, like cleaning lawn furniture and washing the car. They're affordable ($300 and below), light, quiet and easy to store and maintain.
- Gas pressure washers are preferred by many professionals because they tend to generate more power. They'll blast away nearly any dirt and debris on decks, driveways and sidewalks, but they're much more expensive ($300 and above), plus they're bigger, heavier, noisier, harder to maintain, and, of course, need gas to run.
- Battery-powered pressure washers are the newest addition to the category. Many of these cordless models still max out between 500 and 1,000 PSI, compared with the 2,000 to 3,000 PSIs of the best gas or corded electric models. But we're starting to see the power capacity tick up, as with the 1,500 PSI battery-powered Craftsman featured in this report.
✔️ Water pressure vs. water flow: These two specs tell you how much power a pressure washer will generate.
- PSI (or pounds per square inch) indicates the water pressure delivered by the machine. If you're looking to clear dirt and grime from furniture or hose down the car, electric pressure washers with typical PSIs in the 1,600 to 2,300 range should do the job. For tougher cleaning tasks — say, tackling oil stains on a concrete driveway or removing sap from the back deck — you'll do better with a gas pressure washer ranging from 2,700 to 4,400 PSI. While PSI is important, you also need to check the water flow, measured in GPM.
- GPM (or gallons per minute) GPM measures the volume of water delivered by the pressure washer — an indicator of how quickly your machine will clean. Higher-GPM pressure washers (2.0 and up) will clean faster than those with lower GPM.
✔️ Cost vs. value: While you can find pressure washers for less than $100, the least expensive models that perform capably in our tests are closer to $150. At the other end of the spectrum, you could spend $600 or more on a deluxe-model pressure washer, but our experts say the best of the best for home use are in the $300 to $500 range. That's a serious investment, but hiring a professional to pressure-wash a patio or deck could set you back $250, according to Angi, the home services marketplace. Given how many other uses you'll find for the machine throughout the year, our pros say it will quickly pay for itself.
How do you use soap with a pressure washer?
Many of the best pressure washers have onboard detergent tanks that make it easy to apply soapy water to surfaces before cleaning. While you can add diluted household liquid soap to the tank, our experts recommend using cleaning agents specifically designed for pressure washers (available online and at home centers or hardware stores). These products are formulated for specific surfaces, so be sure to match them to your project. Pressure washers with detergent tanks also have nozzles designed to dispense soap. Switch to that nozzle, apply the cleaner, then switch to a higher-powered nozzle to make your surface shine.
Are pressure washers safe?
Short answer: yes. But you need to respect the power generated by these machines, especially at more concentrated settings. To avoid the risk of serious injury, wear closed-toe shoes and safety goggles at all times when operating your pressure washer. And if your machine comes with interchangeable nozzles, use the least powerful one first.
Our experts also say to stay away from the zero-degree spray nozzle (usually the red one in the set, though more brands are calling it their "turbo spray"). The highly concentrated spray is enough to break the surface of the skin. You can get the same cleaning results with a wider spray; it will just take a bit longer.
Pressure washers can damage surfaces too, including decks and fences made of wood or composite. When operating a pressure washer, position yourself about 4 feet from whatever you're cleaning. When in doubt, do a spot test on an inconspicuous area first to help ensure the spray won't damage the surface.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab provides expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, including pressure washers.
In his role as Director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico brings 25 years of experience to the Institute, having reviewed thousands of products, including all kinds of outdoor power equipment, for Good Housekeeping and brands like Consumer Reports and This Old House. For this report, Dan tested 10 pressure washers himself over three months at his home in Brooklyn, NY, evaluating their performance on a variety of surfaces, including his deck, patio, fence, sidewalk and car.
Writer and product tester Timothy Dahl also contributed to this article. He's spent nearly 20 years in the home improvement industry, testing and reviewing products for Popular Mechanics, This Old House and Charles & Hudson.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
Timothy Dahl is an experienced writer and editor covering home improvement, DIY, and lifestyle topics for nearly 20 years. With a deep background in hands-on testing and reporting, he has reviewed and worked with hundreds of tools, products, and home innovations. Timothy's work has appeared in The New York Times, Wired, and Popular Mechanics, and he's the founder of Charles & Hudson. He specializes in making complex projects accessible and is passionate about empowering homeowners with clear, actionable guidance.
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