For gardeners who break new ground and also want a fine seed bed, and who value a light, easy to handle machine over raw engine size.
Amazon $1,099.99The Earthquake Pioneer 99cc is the better tiller overall, rated 3.8 to 3.7. The Earthquake Pioneer 99cc leads on value. The Earthquake Pioneer 99cc costs $100 less ($1,099.99 vs $1,199.99).
For a large garden with tough soil where a light, balanced dual direction tiller with a name brand engine is worth paying for.
Amazon $1,289.95 Earthquake $1,199.99Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Earthquake Pioneer 99cc for value ($64.71 per inch of tilling width ($1,099.99, 17 in) vs $70.59 per inch of tilling width ($1,199.99, 17 in)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every rear tine tiller; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Earthquake Pioneer 99cc | Earthquake Pioneer 127cc |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Value 30% | 48 $64.71 per inch of tilling width ($1,099.99, 17 in) | 38 $70.59 per inch of tilling width ($1,199.99, 17 in) |
| Width 20% | 50 17 in wide | 50 17 in wide |
| Depth 15% | 100 11 in deep | 100 11 in deep |
| Features 15% | 50 reverse, counter-rotating tines | 50 reverse, counter-rotating tines |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Earthquake Pioneer 99cc | Earthquake Pioneer 127cc | |
|---|---|---|
| Tilling | ||
| Type | Rear tine | Rear tine |
| Tilling width | 17 in | 17 in |
| Tilling depth | 11 in | 11 in |
| Tine rotation | Forward or counter-rotating | Forward or counter-rotating |
| Reverse | Yes | Yes |
| Engine or motor | ||
| Power | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | Viper | Briggs & Stratton |
| Displacement | 99 cc | 127 cc |
| Electric start | No | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 137 lb | 143 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
