Stihl BGA 60 Review (UK)

Introduction

If you’re looking for a Stihl BGA 60 review that tells it straight, you’re in the right place. The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is one of the most powerful models in Stihl’s AK battery range, designed for UK gardeners who want petrol-like performance without the noise, fumes, or upkeep of a traditional blower.

Key Highlights

• Blowing Force: 15 N – a big improvement over the Stihl BGA 57.
• Air Speed: Up to 69 m/s (155 mph) for fast, efficient leaf clearing.
• Ergonomics: Lightweight, comfortable, and adjustable to suit all users.
• Ideal Use: Perfect for clearing leaves, paths, patios, lawns, and driveways.

Whether you’re tidying up after mowing or tackling a heavy autumn leaf fall, the Stihl BGA 60 feels strong, well-balanced, and easy to handle. It’s built to make garden clean-ups quick and satisfying rather than a chore.

In this Stihl cordless blower review, we’ll explore its real-world performance, battery life, and how it compares to rivals like the EGO LB5300 and Stihl BGA 86. We’ll also touch on comfort, noise levels, and whether it’s worth the investment for everyday garden use.

By the end, you’ll know exactly whether the Stihl BGA 60 is the best cordless leaf blower for your garden and if it deserves a place in your toolkit.

At a Glance: Quick Summary

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is a compact yet powerful garden tool designed for UK gardeners who want dependable performance without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of petrol models. It’s part of the Stihl AK Battery System, meaning it shares batteries with other 36V cordless tools like the HSA hedge trimmer, FSA strimmer, and RMA lawn mower. One battery setup can power your full garden toolkit — a big plus for both cost and convenience.

Key Specifications

Why It Stands Out

With a 15 N blowing force and 69 m/s air speed, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower tackles damp leaves, grass clippings, and general debris with ease. It’s lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and quiet enough for residential use. The adjustable blower tube and metal wear ring improve comfort and durability, ensuring this tool performs season after season.

If you already use Stihl AK cordless garden tools, upgrading to the BGA 60 is an easy choice. It’s efficient, durable, and built for reliable long-term performance — ideal for homeowners who value simplicity and power.

Quick Verdict

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers the perfect mix of power, design, and build quality. While it costs more than entry-level models, its quiet operation, comfortable handling, and premium construction make it a smart investment for effortless, long-lasting garden maintenance.

Key Specifications: Stihl BGA 60 (UK Model)

Looking for the key details on the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower? Below is a clear, easy-to-read breakdown of its core features. These specs are based on verified UK data and real-world testing, showing how this Stihl cordless blower performs in everyday garden use.

Technical Specifications

Why These Specs Matter

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower sits at the top of the Stihl AK range, offering a noticeable upgrade over the BGA 57. Its brushless motor provides consistent power, smoother operation, and longer lifespan, while the adjustable blower tube and metal wear ring increase durability for everyday garden use.

Even with impressive output, the BGA 60 remains lightweight and comfortable, making it ideal for clearing patios, lawns, and driveways. It’s powerful enough to handle damp leaves yet quiet enough for regular garden maintenance.

Key takeaway: The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers professional-level performance in a compact, easy-to-handle package — perfect for UK gardeners seeking reliable, low-maintenance cordless power without the hassle of petrol.

Build Quality & Design

First Impressions

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower immediately feels premium and durable right out of the box. Like other tools in Stihl’s cordless range, it’s made from impact-resistant polymer, giving it the strength to withstand regular use while staying lightweight. Weighing just 2.3 kg (bare tool), it’s light enough for longer sessions yet solid and stable once the battery is fitted.

This Stihl cordless blower strikes a great balance between build quality, design, and comfort — ideal for gardeners who want a dependable tool that’s easy to handle and built to last.

Design & Upgrades

The design follows the familiar layout of the Stihl BGA 57, but the BGA 60 includes several upgrades that make it more capable and user-friendly:

• Adjustable blower tube – easily extend or shorten for different users and garden jobs.
• Metal wear ring – protects the nozzle when clearing driveways or hard surfaces.
• Repositioned air intake – prevents it from pulling on clothing during use.

These thoughtful upgrades make the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower feel more durable, practical, and comfortable. It’s built for real-world use, whether you’re working in small gardens or larger outdoor areas.

Comfort & Handling

The Stihl BGA 60 is designed with user comfort at its core. Its central handle position keeps the blower well-balanced, reducing wrist and arm strain during long sessions. The rubberised grip offers a secure hold, even in damp conditions, while the variable-speed trigger allows smooth, precise airflow control. You can easily switch from gentle sweeping to full power without stopping.

There’s no complicated setup either — Boost Mode activates automatically with a full trigger press. It’s intuitive, efficient, and always ready to go, making it a great choice for both quick clean-ups and longer jobs.

Real-World Use

In everyday use, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower feels solid, reliable, and comfortable. It stays balanced and easy to control, even during extended use, making it perfect for clearing patios, paths, driveways, and lawns.

In short, the Stihl BGA 60 doesn’t just look professional — it performs like a professional tool. It’s a robust, well-balanced cordless blower designed for anyone who values quality, comfort, and performance in their garden tools.

Power & Performance

Power Output

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers impressive power for a 36V tool. Its high-efficiency brushless EC motor produces up to 15 newtons of blowing force, a significant step up from the Stihl BGA 57 (9 N). With a maximum airspeed of 69 m/s (155 mph) and an airflow of 780 m³/h, this Stihl cordless blower can easily shift wet leaves, heavier debris, and garden waste from patios, lawns, and driveways.

This combination of high airspeed and lightweight design makes it one of the most capable cordless leaf blowers in the domestic category.

Real-World Performance

In real-world use, the Stihl BGA 60 offers smooth, efficient, and responsive performance:

• Dry leaves: Clears effortlessly, even at half throttle.
• Wet or compacted debris: Boost Mode provides instant extra power when needed.
• Power control: The variable-speed trigger gives you precise airflow control, allowing instant adjustment around flowerbeds, gravel, and tight spaces.

The Boost Mode engages automatically with a full trigger press, so there’s no need to change settings mid-job. This intuitive control makes it ideal for both quick clean-ups and longer leaf-clearing sessions.

Comparison with Rivals

When compared with other cordless leaf blowers in the UK, the Stihl BGA 60 consistently performs near the top of its class:

• Beats models like the Husqvarna 120iB and Makita DUB363 for balance, ergonomics, and ease of handling.
• Matches the EGO LB5300E for raw power but delivers a more focused, controlled airflow.
• Edge: The BGA 60’s tighter airflow pattern provides superior precision on paths, patios, and borders.

Overall, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower strikes the ideal balance between power and control, making it perfect for small to medium-sized gardens.

Runtime & Efficiency

Runtime varies depending on your Stihl AK battery choice and how you use the trigger:

• AK 30S battery: Around 15–16 minutes at full power, or roughly 60 minutes with mixed use.
• AK 20 / AK 10 batteries: Offer shorter runtimes but reduce total tool weight.

For most UK gardens, this is more than enough for post-mowing tidying or autumn leaf clearing. While it’s not built for all-day commercial work, it’s ideal for regular home and professional maintenance.

Verdict

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers exceptional power, balance, and precision. It produces a strong, targeted airflow without the noise, vibration, or emissions of petrol models. For anyone seeking dependable cordless garden performance, this model stands out as one of the best cordless blowers in the UK — powerful, quiet, and genuinely enjoyable to use.

Battery & Runtime

Power System Compatibility

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower runs on the dependable Stihl AK Battery System, which also powers popular 36V cordless tools like the FSA 57 trimmer, HSA 56 hedge trimmer, and RMA 235 lawn mower. This shared battery platform makes it simple to swap batteries and chargers between tools, saving both time and money. It’s an eco-friendly, cost-effective system that keeps your garden setup streamlined and efficient.

Official vs. Real-World Runtime

According to Stihl’s data, the BGA 60 cordless blower achieves runtimes from 9 minutes (AK 10) up to 16 minutes (AK 30S) on full power, or up to 130 minutes on lower settings. However, real-world performance can vary slightly:

• Full power: Around 12–15 minutes of continuous blowing with the AK 30S battery.
• Light garden work: Easily over an hour on moderate settings — perfect for routine clean-ups.
• Pro tip: Using feathered trigger control instead of full Boost Mode extends runtime noticeably.

This flexibility makes the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower suitable for everything from daily tidying to seasonal garden jobs.

Runtime & Charging Overview

The AK 30S battery is the best match for the Stihl BGA 60. It delivers the strongest performance, optimal balance, and extended runtime. Once fitted, it sits snugly in the handle, ensuring comfort and reduced fatigue during longer use.

Charging & Storage Tips

Charging is simple and quiet with the AL 101 charger included in most kits:

• AK 30S: Full charge in about 3 hours.
• AK 10 / AK 20: Roughly 1.5–2 hours.
• Want faster charging? Upgrade to the AL 301 charger to reduce charge time by about 30%.

The BGA 60’s battery housing is durable and well-ventilated, but it isn’t weather-sealed. Avoid using or charging in wet conditions, and always store batteries indoors or in a dry shed. Removing the battery after each session helps extend its lifespan and maintain long-term efficiency.

Final Thoughts

For most UK gardeners, pairing the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower with the AK 30S battery and AL 101 charger offers the ideal balance of runtime, power, and comfort. It’s reliable, low-maintenance, and efficient, making it perfect for regular garden maintenance and everyday clean-ups. While it’s not intended for full-day commercial use, it provides dependable cordless performance that’s quiet, powerful, and easy to live with.

Noise & Comfort

Quiet Operation

One of the biggest strengths of the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is its quiet performance. With a sound pressure level of just 76 dB(A), it’s far quieter than petrol models and even most cordless alternatives. Instead of the high-pitched whine often heard from cheaper blowers, the BGA 60 cordless blower produces a steady, low hum that’s much easier on the ears. This makes it a truly neighbour-friendly garden tool, perfect for use early in the morning or later in the evening without causing disruption.

Low Vibration & Comfort

The vibration level is impressively low at just 1.2 m/s², helping reduce hand and arm fatigue during longer sessions. Combined with the lightweight 2.3 kg design and rubberised grip, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower feels stable, comfortable, and easy to control from start to finish. Its central handle position improves balance, allowing smooth, precise movement whether you’re clearing patios, garden paths, or flower borders.

Trigger Control & Handling

The variable-speed trigger on the Stihl BGA 60 is responsive and intuitive. There’s no need for complex settings — simply squeeze for more airflow or ease off for lighter tasks. This smooth, immediate control helps you move seamlessly between wide-open spaces and delicate garden areas, making it both practical and efficient for everyday use.

Weather Protection

While there’s no official IP rating, the sealed motor housing offers reasonable protection from dust and light moisture during normal use. Like all cordless leaf blowers, it’s best to avoid heavy rain or damp conditions. After each session, just wipe the tool clean and store it in a dry place to maintain long-term reliability.

Final Thoughts

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower strikes an excellent balance between quiet operation, comfort, and usability. It’s lightweight, low-vibration, and easy to handle, making it one of the most comfortable cordless blowers available in the UK. For gardeners who value peace, efficiency, and dependable cordless performance, the BGA 60 is a top-rated choice that delivers powerful results without unnecessary noise.

Ease of Use & Maintenance

Simple Operation

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is designed for straightforward, everyday use. It’s one of the easiest cordless blowers to pick up and get started with. The layout is clean and intuitive — one variable-speed trigger does all the work. Press lightly for a gentle breeze or squeeze harder to activate Boost Mode for maximum power. There are no complex settings or extra buttons — just plug in, point, and go.

Adjustable Blower Tube

A standout feature is the tool-free adjustable blower tube. It slides and locks smoothly, allowing you to shorten it when working in tight garden spaces or extend it for larger, open areas. The metal wear ring at the nozzle tip is another smart addition — it protects the end from scuffs and scrapes when clearing driveways, patios, or hard surfaces. These small design details make the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower both durable and practical for long-term use.

Quick Start & Safety

Starting up the BGA 60 couldn’t be easier. The keyed safety switch system prevents accidental starts — simply insert the battery, pull the trigger, and you’re ready to go. When finished, just remove the battery for safety and storage. There’s no pull cord, petrol, or mess to worry about — just quiet, instant power at the press of a trigger.

Low Maintenance

Keeping the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower in top shape requires minimal effort:

• Wipe it down after each use to remove dust and debris.
• Check the air intake occasionally for leaves or blockages.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry area at around 50–60% charge to extend battery life.
• Avoid wet conditions, as the tool isn’t fully waterproof.

The brushless EC motor is sealed, meaning no spark plugs, filters, or fuel parts to maintain. Combined with a 2-year domestic warranty (1-year for professional use) and Stihl’s UK-wide dealer support, maintenance is virtually effortless.

Final Thoughts

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is built for ease, efficiency, and reliability. It’s lightweight, intuitive, and low-maintenance — just charge, use, clean, and store. With Stihl’s proven build quality and smart, user-friendly design, this blower fits seamlessly into the routine of any gardener who values dependable performance and lasting convenience.

Real-World Value & Price

Pricing Overview

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower may sit toward the higher end of the domestic cordless blower range, but its performance, build quality, and long-term durability make it worth the investment. You’re buying a professional-level tool that delivers reliable results with minimal maintenance.

If you already own tools from the Stihl AK Battery System, the bare tool option offers great value. You can reuse existing AK batteries and chargers, making this a cost-effective and compatible addition to your current setup.

How It Compares

When compared with other cordless leaf blowers in the UK, the Stihl BGA 60 positions itself perfectly between entry-level and professional-grade models:

• Budget models (Ryobi, WORX): Affordable, but often lose performance and battery capacity after a few seasons.
• EGO range: Slightly more powerful but heavier and significantly more expensive.
• Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower: Offers a balanced middle ground — reliable power, long-lasting components, and the trusted Stihl build quality.

With its brushless EC motor and reinforced polymer housing, the BGA 60 is built to last. It easily outperforms cheaper cordless blowers that struggle with regular or long-term use.

The Value of the AK Battery System

The AK Battery System compatibility adds long-term value and convenience. If you already use Stihl cordless tools such as the HSA 56 hedge trimmer or FSA 57 grass trimmer, you’re saving money by sharing batteries and chargers. This cross-compatibility makes the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower a future-proof investment that fits seamlessly into your cordless lineup.

Long-Term Value & Maintenance

Running costs on the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower are impressively low — there’s no fuel, oil, or filters to maintain. Pair that with Stihl’s UK-wide dealer support and a 2-year warranty, and you get peace of mind and dependable performance for years to come. It’s efficient, tough, and built to handle real-world garden use.

Final Verdict

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower represents excellent long-term value for homeowners and professional gardeners alike. It delivers premium performance and build quality without the bulk or price tag of commercial-grade tools. For anyone who wants a quiet, durable, and reliable cordless blower, the BGA 60 is a smart investment that pays off over time.

Competitor Comparison

When comparing cordless leaf blowers in the UK, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower faces strong competition. Here’s how it performs against other mid-range cordless models in terms of power, runtime, noise, and overall value.

Power & Performance

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower competes closely with professional-grade tools like the Stihl BGA 86 and EGO LB5300E, offering similar power while staying lighter and more compact. It’s a major step up from the Stihl BGA 57, with roughly 65% more blowing force. That extra strength becomes obvious when tackling damp leaves or heavier garden debris.

Weight & Balance

At only 2.3 kg, the Stihl BGA 60 is one of the lightest cordless blowers in its class. Its central handle design provides excellent balance and stability, reducing strain and helping maintain control during longer tasks. Although the Husqvarna 120iB is slightly lighter, the BGA 60’s ergonomic build makes it feel more planted and easier to manoeuvre.

Runtime & Efficiency

With the AK 30S battery, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers about 15–16 minutes of continuous full-power use, similar to the EGO LB5300E’s turbo mode. The Makita DUB363 may offer a little extra runtime, but it’s nearly twice as heavy. Thanks to its efficient brushless EC motor, the BGA 60 uses energy more effectively, giving it a strong edge for its size and weight.

Noise & Ease of Use

At just 76 dB(A), the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower is among the quietest models in this comparison. It’s ideal for residential gardens, schools, and client properties where noise control matters. You get the same professional-grade performance without harsh vibration or disruptive sound, making it enjoyable for extended use.

Value for Money

For anyone already using the Stihl AK Battery System, the BGA 60 cordless leaf blower offers excellent value. Even when including the cost of the AK 30S battery and AL 101 charger, it’s still more affordable than many professional-level blowers. You’re getting premium build quality and consistent performance without paying commercial-level prices.

Final Verdict

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower delivers the perfect balance of power, comfort, and affordability. It’s stronger than most domestic cordless models, quieter than many professional units, and lighter than both. For UK gardeners who want pro-level performance without the high cost or weight, the BGA 60 stands out as one of the best cordless blowers available today.

Looking to compare the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower with other top models? Check out our full guide to the Best Cordless Leaf Blowers in the UK for 2025 to see how it stacks up on power, runtime, and value.

Who It’s For (and Who It’s Not)

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is built for gardeners who want professional-level performance in a lightweight, easy-to-handle package. It’s perfect for homeowners with small to medium gardens and professional gardeners who need a dependable, go-to blower for quick, efficient clean-ups.

✅ Ideal For

• Home gardeners looking for a reliable and quiet cordless leaf blower to clear paths, patios, and lawns.
• Existing Stihl AK System users who want to add a stronger blower without needing new batteries or chargers.
• Professional gardeners who need a lightweight backup blower for quick tidy-ups between larger jobs.
• Noise-sensitive users living in suburban or residential areas where petrol blowers aren’t suitable.

The Stihl BGA 60 combines balance, comfort, and power in one package. Its low vibration and quiet operation make it perfect for anyone who values efficiency, convenience, and smooth performance in everyday use.

🚫 Not Ideal For

• Large gardens or estates requiring long runtimes and continuous high power — the Stihl BGA 86 (AP System) or EGO LB5800E are better choices.
• Heavy, wet leaf piles that need stronger, sustained airflow.
• All-weather work, since the BGA 60 cordless blower lacks an official IP weather rating. Avoid rainy or damp conditions to protect the motor and battery.

Final Thoughts on Fit

If you already own Stihl AK-series cordless tools, the BGA 60 is a natural next upgrade. It’s quiet, light, and powerful enough for nearly every UK garden. This Stihl cordless blower fills the gap between domestic and professional-grade tools — offering serious performance in a design that stays simple and intuitive for everyday gardeners.

💡 Tip: Want to compare the Stihl BGA 60 with other leading models? Read our full guide: Best Cordless Leaf Blower UK 2025 for detailed comparisons and the latest UK pricing.

FAQs: Stihl BGA 60 Cordless Leaf Blower

1. How long does the battery last on the Stihl BGA 60?
Runtime depends on your battery and how you use the blower. With the AK 30S battery, you can expect around 15–16 minutes at full power, or over an hour for lighter, stop-start garden work. Smaller batteries like the AK 10 and AK 20 are lighter but offer shorter runtimes.

2. Which battery is best for the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower?
The AK 30S is the perfect match for the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower. It offers the best combination of power, runtime, and weight, making it ideal for regular home use without adding unnecessary bulk.

3. Can I use the Stihl BGA 60 in the rain?
No — the BGA 60 cordless blower isn’t weather-sealed. Like most cordless garden tools, it’s best to use it in dry conditions. Always store it indoors or under cover when not in use to protect the motor and battery.

4. Is the Stihl BGA 60 quieter than petrol models?
Yes. With a noise level of just 76 dB(A), the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is much quieter than petrol alternatives. It’s one of the most neighbour-friendly cordless blowers available in the UK — perfect for early mornings or evenings.

5. What’s the difference between the Stihl BGA 57 and BGA 60?
The Stihl BGA 60 delivers about 65% more blowing force (15 N vs 9 N) and features an adjustable tube with a metal wear ring for durability. It also uses a brushless motor, giving it stronger performance and a longer lifespan than the BGA 57.

6. Does the Stihl BGA 60 come with a battery and charger?
That depends on the version you buy. The bare tool version is perfect if you already own Stihl AK batteries, while the kit version includes the AK 30S battery and AL 101 charger, giving you everything you need to get started.

7. Can the Stihl BGA 60 blow wet leaves?
Yes — use Boost Mode for extra power to move damp or stuck leaves. Just remember that constant high-power use will shorten battery life, so use it when necessary.

8. What warranty does the Stihl BGA 60 include?
The BGA 60 cordless leaf blower includes a 2-year domestic warranty (or 1-year for professional use). It’s supported by Stihl’s UK dealer network, making repairs and servicing easy to access.

9. Is the Stihl BGA 60 suitable for professional gardeners?
Yes — for lighter or secondary work. Many professional gardeners use the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower as a portable backup tool for quick clean-ups between larger jobs.

These FAQs answer the most common questions about the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower. Including this section with FAQPage schema can also help improve SEO visibility and boost your chances of appearing in Google’s featured snippets.

Verdict: Is the Stihl BGA 60 Cordless Leaf Blower Worth It?

Overall Impression

The Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower stands out as one of the best cordless blowers in the UK for its category. It delivers a powerful airflow, quiet performance, and premium build quality that few domestic models can match. It’s a significant upgrade from the Stihl BGA 57, offering stronger output, improved balance, and better durability — all while remaining lightweight and easy to control.

Real-World Performance

In real-world garden use, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless blower performs with confidence and consistency. It clears everything from dry garden debris to damp, heavy leaves without hesitation. The variable-speed trigger and Boost Mode provide precise airflow control, allowing you to switch effortlessly between delicate flowerbeds and high-power clearing on driveways or patios.

Runtime depends on your Stihl AK battery, but the AK 30S delivers the best results — roughly 15–16 minutes at full power or over an hour of intermittent use. Its low 76 dB noise level also makes it one of the most neighbour-friendly cordless blowers in the UK.

Comfort & Ease of Use

The Stihl BGA 60 is designed for comfort and practicality. Weighing just 2.3 kg, it’s light, balanced, and easy to handle. The central handle design improves control, while the rubberised grip enhances comfort during extended sessions. Features like the adjustable blower tube and metal wear ring add extra usability and durability, protecting the nozzle and improving handling. Plus, the brushless motor requires virtually no maintenance, so it’s always ready when you are.

Value for Money

Although not the cheapest model, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower provides exceptional long-term value. The bare tool version is ideal for gardeners who already own Stihl AK System tools, allowing you to reuse existing batteries and chargers. You’re investing in a high-quality, reliable cordless blower that’s efficient, durable, and designed to last — a true upgrade from budget options that struggle over time.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a powerful, quiet, and dependable cordless leaf blower, the Stihl BGA 60 is a top pick for UK gardeners. It perfectly bridges the gap between domestic convenience and professional performance, combining power, comfort, and build quality in one robust package. For anyone who values efficiency, reliability, and long-lasting performance, the Stihl BGA 60 cordless leaf blower is absolutely worth the investment.