From fertilizers to weed killers, maintaining a garden involves a lot of spraying. However, lugging a heavy canister around can be physically exhausting and time-consuming. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution: backpack sprayers. Ideal for spraying pesticides, fertilizers, weed killers and other liquids, these products are worn backpack-style to distribute weight evenly, allowing you to comfortably accomplish any spraying tasks around your yard.
To help you find the right one for your needs, we’ve rounded up the highest-rated backpack sprayers in 2024, evaluating them based on their power, features, capacity and ease of use. We’ll discuss each product’s pros, cons and features, and we’ll also share some buying tips so you’ll have all the knowledge you need to make an informed purchase. So, let’s get spraying.
Best Overall: Field King 190328 Backpack Sprayer
Most Comfortable: Petra HD4000 Backpack Sprayer
Most Portable: VIVOSUN Backpack Sprayer
Best Features: Chapin International 61800 Backpack Sprayer
Best Minimalist Pick: Roundup 190314 Backpack Sprayer
Reviewing the Finest Backpack Sprayers of 2024
1. Field King 190328 Backpack Sprayer – Best Overall
List Price: $121.99
The Field King 190328 Backpack Sprayer tops our list thanks to its versatile, leak-resistant design. It offers dual functionality, working as a piston and a diaphragm backpack. It’s suitable for use with liquids and wettable powders (WPs), and thanks to its leak-resistant pump, you don’t have to worry about chemicals spilling on you during use.
The pump delivers a maximum of 150 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure. This backpack sprayer comes with four nozzle attachments for performing a variety of tasks, and the seals can be easily swapped out in just a few seconds with no need for tools. This backpack sprayer has a generous 4-gallon capacity and weighs only 12.8 pounds, making it comfortable to wear when full.
Pros
- Large opening for easy filling
- One-way valve for spill prevention
- Reversible handle for ambidextrous use
Cons
- Wide angle sprayer, not foaming head
- Instructions could be clearer
2. Petra HD4000 Backpack Sprayer – Most Comfortable
List Price: $299.00
The Petra HD4000 Backpack Sprayer is designed with comfort in mind. The shoulder straps are double-padded and adjustable for a customized fit. The waist belt, which is also adjustable, offers excellent lumbar support while the battery-powered nozzle doesn’t require manual pumping, preventing hand and wrist strain and fatigue. Don’t feel like wearing the backpack? Simply lock it into the included commercial-grade cart for effortless portability.
This backpack sprayer features a wide opening equipped with a filter for mess-free filling that also ensures no debris gets into the tank. The pressure knob allows you to adjust the pressure setting between 40 and 70 PSI, and the tank’s transparent design makes visually monitoring your solution levels simple. You’ll receive six different nozzle attachments with this sprayer which makes it easier to tackle any gardening task.
Pros
- Six attachments included for maximum versatility
- Long battery life for sustained use
- Generous 4-gallon capacity
Cons
- Low maximum PSI compared to other models
- Long battery-charging time
3. VIVOSUN Backpack Sprayer – Most Portable
List Price: $43.99
The VIVOSUN Backpack Sprayer is a solid choice for anyone who needs a lightweight product that’s easy to carry. With an impressively low weight of just 2.68 pounds, this product has a 1.3-gallon capacity and an adjustable shoulder strap, making it very portable. The handle has ergonomic grooves for a secure, slip-resistant grip and a locking mechanism for continuous spraying without straining your hand.
This backpack sprayer comes with basic, fan and double nozzle attachments that can be used for a wide range of tasks, including spraying plants, cleaning your deck, washing your car and giving your pet a bath. The 50-inch hose offers plenty of flexibility while the tank’s clear design allows you to monitor its fluid level at a quick glance.
Pros
- Adjustable nozzles for multifunctionality
- Four sizes are available based on your needs
- Fifty-inch hose for extended reach
Cons
- Manual pumping required
- Lower capacity than other options
4. Chapin International 61800 Backpack Sprayer – Best Features
List Price: $89.99
The Chapin International 61800 Backpack Sprayer is equipped with a wide range of user-friendly features, making it a solid choice for avid gardeners. Its opening measures 4 inches wide, making it easy to clean and fill. The included three-stage filtration system can be removed for hassle-free cleaning, and it keeps the tank free from debris, which goes a long way in preventing clogs. This pick is durably constructed from a combination of brass and reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials.
The cushioned shoulder straps offer superior comfort, even when the sprayer is worn for extended periods of time. The backpack sprayer is suitable for use with most weed killers, pesticides and fertilizers. It comes with fan, brass and cone attachments so you can tackle various tasks with ease. The hose is 48 inches long, offering plenty of reach, and the sprayer is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty and comes with a detailed user manual.
Pros
- Removable three-stage filtration system for easy cleaning
- Wide opening enables mess-free tank filling
- Sturdy construction materials
Cons
- Fewer attachments than some comparable models
- No additional size options
5. Roundup 190314 Backpack Sprayer – Best Minimalist Pick
List Price: $83.99
If you’re looking for a simple yet versatile product that can handle all of your gardening and outdoor cleaning tasks, consider the Roundup 190314 Backpack Sprayer. Featuring a 4-gallon capacity, this pick holds enough liquid to complete most tasks without needing to be refilled. The pump handle is reversible to accommodate right- and left-handed users.
This backpack sprayer comes with a couple of basic yet versatile attachments, and the oversized opening allows for easy filling and cleaning. The pump handle features a locking mechanism, enabling you to spray continuously without having to hold down the lever. The built-in carry handle and cushioned shoulder straps allow you to carry or wear the sprayer while the waist belt provides extra back support when worn.
Pros
- Has a locking mechanism for convenient spraying
- Can be worn or carried
- Comes with three nozzle attachments
Cons
- Can be difficult to gauge tank level
- May be heavy when filled
Backpack Sprayer Buying Guide
As you’re shopping for a backpack sprayer, there’s a range of factors to evaluate when choosing the right product for your needs. Keep the following considerations in mind to ensure you invest in a quality sprayer.
Size and capacity
To help you determine the ideal size of your backpack sprayer, it’s important to think about the types of tasks you plan to use it for. If you’re doing small-scale jobs like spraying a backyard garden or a modestly sized deck, a smaller model with a lower capacity should do the trick. However, if you need to cover larger areas, a bigger model with a higher capacity is a better choice. Remember that the larger the size, the heavier the product will be when filled, so you’ll want to choose a sprayer that holds a lot without being too cumbersome to carry.
Pressure
Different tasks require different pressure levels, so make sure the sprayer you choose is suitable for your needs. If you’ll use the product to spray your garden, a model with a maximum PSI of 70 should be sufficient. However, if you’ll be using the backpack sprayer to clean your deck or car, you’ll want something that packs more of a punch.
Durability
How durable a backpack sprayer is depends on its materials. To ensure your product will have a long service life, opt for one that’s made from high-quality, UV- and rust-resistant materials such as heavy-duty PVC and powder-coated metals.
Comfort
A backpack sprayer should be comfortable to wear. Opt for one that’s lightweight yet durable with padded straps that won’t dig into your shoulders. It should distribute weight evenly to prevent back strain, and it should have a waist belt for extra lumbar support. Ensure the nozzle is positioned for easy, comfortable access and the lever has an ergonomic design to prevent hand fatigue.
Nozzle types
For maximum versatility, it’s essential to choose a backpack sprayer that comes with several different types of nozzles so it’ll be able to handle a wide range of tasks. Some of the most useful nozzle types include flat fan, jet stream and cone options.
Reach and hose length
It’s essential to choose a backpack sprayer that offers adequate reach. The hose should be long enough to cover hard-to-reach areas yet short enough not to become tangled. Aim for a backpack sprayer with a hose that measures around 45 to 50 inches.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is an important part of making sure your sprayer lasts long and performs well, so we recommend choosing a model that’s simple to maintain. Look for one with a wide opening to allow you easy access to the tank’s interior for cleaning. The sprayer should also have removable nozzles and filters that can be cleaned out and reattached with ease.
Price
Backpack sprayers vary in price depending on their features and materials, so it’s essential to find one that strikes a balance between your budget and overall quality. Compare features and prices across different models before making your decision.
Warranty and customer service
Before purchasing a backpack sprayer, ensure that it is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your purchase is protected in the event you experience any issues with it down the line. It’s also advisable to look into what kind of customer service the manufacturer offers in case you should have any questions or need any post-purchase assistance or support.
Backpack Sprayer FAQs
How do I clean my backpack sprayer?
To clean your backpack sprayer, start by safely disposing of any liquid that remains in the tank. Disassemble all parts and rinse them with hot water. Use mild soap and a soft brush to clean the tank, nozzle tips, filter screens and gaskets. Finally, reassemble everything and check that it’s sealed and functioning properly before using the sprayer again.
Are there any safety precautions to consider when using a backpack sprayer?
Yes, there are some important safety precautions to consider when using a backpack sprayer. Be sure to read the user manual to ensure safe operation. During use, it’s advisable to wear protective clothing, gloves and eye protection, as some chemicals may be corrosive or toxic and require safe handling.
What type of chemicals can be used in a backpack sprayer?
Generally, backpack sprayers can be used with many different types of chemicals, including herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, weed killers, fungicides, disinfectants and more. Before use, we recommend checking the user manual to ensure your sprayer is suitable for use with the chemicals you plan to fill it with.
How often should I check and maintain my backpack sprayer?
We suggest inspecting and maintaining your backpack sprayer after each use for optimal performance and safety. This includes checking the hose for signs of wear or damage; emptying out any excess liquid left in the tank; cleaning out build-up from the nozzles; inspecting seals for proper function; changing the filters if needed; making sure valves are functioning properly; checking pressure gauges regularly; and always following the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
How much does a backpack sprayer cost?
This depends on the particular model and its features, materials and construction. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $300 for a backpack sprayer.
Why Trust Us
Our commitment to customers begins with a carefully curated product selection process, ensuring we provide high-quality and reliable options. We meticulously vet each backpack sprayer, analyzing quantitative aspects, such as star ratings and review count, and qualitative factors, including review content and product features. Our dedicated team of bargain hunters consistently prioritizes your budget by meticulously scouring the market and identifying the best backpack sprayers available without compromising on quality or performance. Our panel focuses on presenting the pros and cons of each backpack sprayer and converting technical specs into understandable insights. We aim to ensure convenience and efficiency with top-rated gardening equipment.
