Greenworks 24252 40V Review

Introduction

The Greenworks 24252 40V Leaf Blower Vacuum offers cordless convenience with the added utility of a vacuum and mulcher. This review examines how well it balances power, noise, and price for a modest investment, based on research and owner feedback.

Performance

Blowing Power and Airspeed

The Greenworks 24252 is not a high-velocity monster. It produces a maximum airspeed of around 110 mph (manufacturer claim) and about 300 CFM. In real-world use, that means it moves dry leaves on pavement and short grass effectively, but it struggles with wet leaves, thick piles, or heavy debris like acorns and wet mulch. On concrete driveways, it clears a single layer of dry oak leaves with one pass. On lawns, users report needing to work slower and closer to the ground, especially when leaves are matted down by rain.

The variable speed trigger is a genuine plus. It allows feathering the power for light cleanup around flowers or sensitive plants, then pulling fully for tougher jobs. Owners often use the trigger at about 70% for most tasks and only go full throttle for stubborn piles. The trigger lock is convenient for sustained use, but it can disengage accidentally if gripped high on the handle—a minor annoyance, not a dealbreaker.

Compared to top-tier gas or high-end cordless blowers (like the EGO 650 CFM models), this Greenworks feels underpowered. But for a 40V cordless tool at this price, the airspeed is acceptable. It won’t blow leaves across a football field, but it will handle a typical suburban yard without leaving users frustrated.

Vacuum and Mulching

Switching from blower to vacuum is straightforward: remove the nozzle, attach the vacuum tube (which clicks in with a simple locking mechanism), and clip on the collection bag. The whole process takes about 30 seconds once familiar. The vacuum tube is wide enough to handle most leaves, but it will clog if large twigs or wet, clumpy piles are sucked up. Keeping the tube moving and avoiding overloading is recommended.

The mulching ratio is advertised as 10:1, meaning it reduces leaves to about one-tenth their original volume. In independent owner feedback, results are closer to 8:1 with dry leaves and about 5:1 with slightly damp leaves. The mulched material is fine and dry, perfect for compost or garden bed cover. The impeller is made of metal, which provides confidence it won’t crack if a small stick gets sucked in. Users report that accidentally vacuuming acorns is handled without issue, though they make a loud rattling noise.

The collection bag is the weakest part of the vacuum system. It holds about 1.5 bushels (roughly 12 gallons), which is small for a yard with many trees. Owners report emptying it every 5 to 10 minutes during heavy leaf cleanup. The bag is made of a stiff canvas-like material with a clear plastic window, so users can see when it’s full. But the zipper closure is flimsy and prone to jamming if overfilled. Unzipping carefully is necessary to avoid spilling mulch. A larger bag or a shoulder strap would make this much more comfortable.

Battery Life and Charging

The Greenworks 24252 comes with a 2.0Ah battery and a standard charger. On a full charge, continuous blowing at full speed lasts about 18 minutes—enough for a small to medium yard if working efficiently. With the variable speed trigger set to medium, runtime stretches to about 28 minutes. In vacuum mode, runtime drops to around 12 to 15 minutes because the motor works harder to pull air through the bag and mulcher.

For yards larger than a quarter acre, a second battery is needed. Research with a Greenworks 4.0Ah battery (sold separately) yields 35 minutes of full-speed blowing and about 25 minutes of vacuuming—much more practical. The charger takes about 90 minutes to fully charge the 2.0Ah battery, which is average for this class. The battery slides on and off easily and has a LED charge indicator, helpful for checking remaining power.

Noise Level

At 64 dB (as measured at operator ear height), this is one of the quietest leaf blower vacuums available. For context, a typical gas leaf blower runs at 90 to 100 dB, and most cordless models are in the 70 to 80 dB range. At 64 dB, users can hold a conversation while using it, and neighbors won’t be disturbed. The sound is more of a whir than a scream, which is easier on the ears. If noise sensitivity is a priority, this is a strong selling point.

Build and Value

Construction Quality

The Greenworks 24252 is built to a price point. The body is made of hard plastic that feels sturdy enough for regular use but not rugged enough for commercial or abusive handling. The nozzle and vacuum tube are also plastic, with simple friction-fit connections. They hold up fine under normal use, but dropping them on concrete repeatedly is not recommended. The metal impeller is a nice touch for durability. The handle is ergonomic with a soft rubber grip, and the overall weight (about 8.5 pounds with battery) is manageable for most adults. It’s well-balanced in blower mode, but the vacuum mode makes it a bit front-heavy because of the bag attachment.

The battery port is sealed with a rubber gasket to prevent debris ingress, and the venting seems adequate to prevent overheating. Continuous use for 15 minutes in 85 degree weather shows no performance drop. The charger is basic but reliable, with a built-in cooling fan. The 40V battery is compatible with other Greenworks 40V tools, so if you already own a Greenworks trimmer or chainsaw, batteries can be shared.

Value for Money

This is where the Greenworks 24252 shines. It’s one of the most affordable 40V leaf blower vacuums on the market. You get a blower, a vacuum, a mulcher, a battery, and a charger for a price that’s often half of what competitors like EGO or Toro charge for similar kits. For budget-conscious shoppers or those starting to build a cordless outdoor tool collection, this is a compelling entry point.

However, the low price comes with compromises. The small bag, modest airspeed, and short runtime (with the included battery) mean extra accessories or a larger battery may be needed to get the most out of it. If factoring in the cost of a 4.0Ah battery, the total price approaches mid-range models that offer better performance. So while the base kit is a great value, total cost of ownership should be considered.

Who This Suits

This blower vacuum is best suited for specific users. It is recommended for:

• Homeowners with small to medium yards (under a quarter acre): The runtime and bag capacity are adequate for light to moderate leaf cleanup. For a postage stamp lawn or city lot, this will serve well.
• Noise-sensitive users: At 64 dB, it’s quiet enough for early morning or late evening use without annoying neighbors or family members.
• Budget-conscious shoppers: If you want a cordless blower and vacuum without spending a lot, this is a solid entry-level choice.
• Greenworks ecosystem users: If you already own Greenworks 40V tools, the battery sharing makes this a cost-effective addition.

It is not recommended for:

• Large properties or heavy leaf loads: The small bag and modest airspeed will frustrate users with many trees or a big yard.
• Commercial or heavy-duty use: The plastic construction and limited runtime aren’t built for daily professional work.
• Users who need high airspeed for wet debris or gravel: This blower is best for dry leaves on hard surfaces or short grass.

Final Verdict

The Greenworks 24252 is a capable, honest tool that knows its limits. It won’t replace a gas backpack blower or a premium cordless model, but it doesn’t try to. What it offers is a quiet, affordable, and reasonably effective way to handle leaf cleanup in a small to medium yard. The variable speed trigger and mulching function are genuine highlights, and the low noise level is a welcome change from the roar of gas equipment.

The downsides are real: the bag is too small, the airspeed is below average, and the included battery limits runtime. But for the price, these are trade-offs many owners accept. If you’re willing to buy a larger battery and manage the bag emptying, this tool will serve well for years. If you want maximum power and convenience, save up for a higher-end model. For everyone else, the Greenworks 24252 is a smart, practical choice that delivers on its promises without breaking the bank.