Tackling yard work can be a breeze, but choosing the right tool makes all the difference. If you’re looking for a way to clear leaves and debris efficiently, two popular corded electric options stand out: the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600. Let’s break down what each offers.
Quick Check
| Fact Name | WORX WG520 | BLACK+DECKER BV3600 |
|---|---|---|
| Product | ||
| Check Price | Check discount Price on Amazon | Check discount Price on Amazon |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Blend |
| Item Weight | 6.5 Pounds | 8.1 Pounds |
| Wattage | Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) | 120 Volts |
WORX WG520 Review

WORX WG520: At a Glance
Capacity: 600 Cubic Feet Per Minute
Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Wattage: Corded Electric
Item Weight: 6.5 Pounds
Voltage: 120 Volts (AC)
Special Features: Adjustable Speed, Compact Design, Electric, Lightweight, One-hand Operation
WORX WG520
The WORX WG520 is designed with innovative TURBINE FAN TECH, aiming to deliver professional-grade power in a lightweight package. Its engineering focuses on high air volume and speed, making it suitable for clearing large areas quickly.
What We Like
- Powerful TURBINE FAN TECH for strong airflow.
- Offers 2 speeds to adapt to different clearing needs.
- High CFM (600) for efficient debris removal over wide paths.
- Hyper-Stream Air Nozzle for concentrated blasts on tougher spots.
- Designed for one-handed operation, weighing only 6.5 lbs.
- Integrated cord retainer for secure connections.
Things to Consider
- It’s a blower only, lacking vacuum or mulching capabilities.
- Requires an extension cord (sold separately) for operation.
WORX 12 Amp Electric Leaf Blower, Turbine Blower for Lawn Care with 600 CFM & 2 Speed Control, Corded, WG520
BLACK+DECKER BV3600 Review

BLACK+DECKER BV3600: At a Glance
Material: Blend
Wattage: Corded Electric
Item Weight: 8.1 Pounds
Voltage: 120 Volts
Special Features: Leaf Vacuum, Lightweight, Mulcher
BLACK+DECKER BV3600
The BLACK+DECKER BV3600 offers versatility with its 3-in-1 functionality, seamlessly converting between a blower, vacuum, and mulcher. This makes it a convenient all-in-one solution for yard cleanup.
What We Like
- 3-in-1 design: blower, vacuum, and mulcher in one unit.
- Powerful 12 amp motor with a 230 mph blower speed.
- Anti-clog vortex impeller for efficient mulching, reducing 10 bags of debris to one.
- Two speed selections for varied tasks, from delicate areas to matted leaves.
- Includes all necessary tubes, a concentrator, and a collection bag.
- Built-in cord retainer for uninterrupted use.
Things to Consider
- It is heavier at 8.1 lbs compared to the WORX WG520.
- The vacuum and mulching functions may require more frequent emptying or handling of debris.
BLACK+DECKER Corded Leaf Blower Leaf Vacuum and Leaf Mulcher 3-in-1, Up to 230 MPH, 12 Amp Handheld Blower and Vacuum Combo (BV3600)
The Biggest Difference
The most significant distinction between the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 lies in their core functionality. The WG520 is a dedicated, high-performance leaf blower engineered for maximum air volume and speed.
Conversely, the BV3600 is a multi-functional tool. Its ability to switch between blowing, vacuuming, and mulching provides a comprehensive solution for yard waste management, allowing users to collect and reduce debris in a single pass.
What Changes in Real Life
- For quick, large-area leaf clearing, the WORX WG520 excels due to its high CFM and focused airflow.
- When you need to not only move leaves but also collect and reduce their volume, the BLACK+DECKER BV3600‘s vacuum and mulching modes become invaluable.
- If your primary concern is the speed of clearing large open spaces, the WG520’s powerful blowing action is a key advantage.
- For tasks involving gathering debris into piles for composting or disposal, the BV3600’s vacuum and mulching features streamline the process significantly.
- The lighter weight of the WG520 can mean less fatigue during extended blowing sessions.
- The BV3600’s all-in-one nature can reduce the need for multiple tools and storage space.
How These Actually Work (And Why It Matters)
The WORX WG520 utilizes a TURBINE FAN TECH that generates a high volume of air (600 CFM) at significant speed (110 mph). This powerful airflow is directed through its nozzle to forcefully move leaves and debris. The emphasis here is on pure blowing power and efficiency for clearing large areas.
The BLACK+DECKER BV3600 operates with a 12 amp motor that drives an impeller. In blower mode, it expels air at a high velocity (230 mph). When switched to vacuum mode, the impeller’s action pulls debris into the unit. The anti-clog vortex impeller then grinds the collected material, significantly reducing its volume for easier disposal.
Which One Is Best for You?
Deciding between the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 depends on your primary yard care needs. Consider the size of your yard, the type of debris you typically encounter, and whether you value a tool’s specialized function or its versatility.
Which One Fits Your Life?
- If you have a large yard with extensive leaf cover and your main goal is rapid clearing, the WORX WG520 is a strong choice.
- If you prefer a single tool to handle blowing, vacuuming, and mulching, the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 offers that convenience.
- If you often find yourself needing to collect and reduce the volume of yard waste, the BV3600’s mulching capability is a significant benefit.
- If your focus is solely on powerful, efficient air blowing without the need for vacuuming, the WG520 is designed for that purpose.
- If you need to maintain flower beds and more delicate areas, the BV3600’s two-speed selection might be more adaptable.
My Honest Recommendation
For users who prioritize raw blowing power and high-volume air delivery to clear large outdoor spaces quickly, the WORX WG520 stands out. Its design is optimized for efficiency in moving debris over wide paths, making it a dedicated tool for this specific task.
On the other hand, if your yard cleanup involves a variety of tasks like blowing, collecting, and reducing debris volume, the versatile 3-in-1 functionality of the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 offers a more comprehensive solution. Its vacuum and mulching features can significantly simplify waste management.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | WORX WG520 | BLACK+DECKER BV3600 |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Blower | Blower, Vacuum, Mulcher |
| Motor Power | TURBINE FAN TECH (Wattage not specified, focuses on airflow) | 12 Amp |
| Max Air Speed | 110 mph | 230 mph |
| Air Volume (CFM) | 600 CFM | (Not specified, focuses on speed) |
| Weight | 6.5 Pounds | 8.1 Pounds |
| Mulching Ratio | N/A | 10:1 |
| Speed Settings | 2 Speeds | 2 Speeds |
| Special Features | One-hand operation, Hyper-Stream Nozzle, Cord retainer | 3-in-1 design, Anti-clog impeller, Cord retainer |
Specifications Comparison
| Fact Name | WORX WG520 | BLACK+DECKER BV3600 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | WORX | BLACK+DECKER |
| Model | WG520 | BV3600 |
| Color | Black and Orange | Black |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Blend |
| Capacity | 600 Cubic Feet Per Minute | Not specified |
| Wattage | Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
| Item Weight | 6.5 Pounds | 8.1 Pounds |
| Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) | 120 Volts |
| Special Features | Adjustable Speed, Compact Design, Electric, Lightweight, One-hand Operation | Leaf Vacuum, Lightweight, Mulcher |
Maintenance and Care
Both the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 are corded electric tools, meaning they do not require battery maintenance. After use, it’s advisable to clear any debris from the intake and nozzle areas. For the BV3600, ensuring the collection bag is emptied and clean will maintain its vacuuming efficiency. Regular inspection of the cord for any damage is also recommended for both units.
When to Buy for Better Deals
Looking for potential savings on your next yard tool? Both the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 are popular models, and deals can frequently appear.
- Keep an eye on online retailers for seasonal sales events.
- Promotional bundles may occasionally include accessories or related tools.
- Check for refurbished models if you’re open to pre-owned options.
- Sign up for newsletters from major home and garden suppliers to receive deal alerts.
FAQs
What is the primary function of the WORX WG520?
The WORX WG520 is designed as a powerful corded electric leaf blower, focusing on efficient and high-volume air expulsion.
Can the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 be used as a vacuum?
Yes, the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 features a 3-in-1 design that includes a vacuum function for collecting leaves and debris.
Which tool is lighter for extended use?
The WORX WG520 is lighter at 6.5 pounds, which may offer more comfort during prolonged operation.
Does the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 have a mulching feature?
Absolutely, the BLACK+DECKER BV3600 includes a mulching function that can reduce yard waste volume significantly.
Are extension cords included with these tools?
No, extension cords are sold separately for both the WORX WG520 and the BLACK+DECKER BV3600.
Quick Links
Final Decision
Both the WORX WG520 and BLACK+DECKER BV3600 offer effective corded electric solutions for yard cleanup. Your choice will likely depend on whether you need a dedicated blower or a multi-functional tool.
Consider the specific demands of your yard work to make the most informed decision between these two capable options.
When considering your yard maintenance tools, the WORX WG520 excels as a specialized, high-performance blower, ideal for users focused on clearing large areas with powerful airflow. Its lightweight design and high CFM make it efficient for pure blowing tasks.
The BLACK+DECKER BV3600 provides a versatile 3-in-1 solution, combining blowing, vacuuming, and mulching capabilities. This makes it a practical choice for those who want to manage debris from collection to volume reduction with a single tool.

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