Best Tillers and Cultivators Ranked

A low cost corded tiller with a full 16 in path for budget buyers with an outlet near the garden.

A cheap, light corded tiller for loosening existing beds near an outlet. Buyers with heavy clay should step up to the 13.5 A TJ604E for $10 more.

The pick of Sun Joe’s corded tillers for most small gardens: a wide path and a stronger motor for little more than the 12 A model.

For corded tiller buyers who want the most motor Sun Joe makes in a light package. If the soil is already loose, the cheaper TJ604E tills just as wide.

A corded 16 in tiller that matches the Sun Joe TJ604E on width, depth and motor, for buyers who find it cheaper.

For a small, already worked garden where low weight matters more than engine power. Compare the price of the 99cc Versa before buying.

For a home vegetable garden that gets tilled every spring: one machine handles both the full width seed bed and weeding between rows, with a long warranty.

For a small worked garden on a tight budget: much of the Earthquake Versa design for less, with a shorter warranty.

For a larger worked garden where a stronger, name brand engine is worth about $140 over the Versa, if you can find one in stock.

For a budget buyer with a worked garden who wants full width tilling for the least money, including California buyers.

For opening up wide, shallow beds quickly on a budget. Buyers who need depth or a stated warranty should look at the Earthquake Victory.

For breaking a new garden or working clay on a budget: counter rotating tines, reverse and a long warranty for around $800.

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.

For a large garden with tough soil where a light, balanced dual direction tiller with a name brand engine is worth paying for.

For a budget buyer who wants dual rotation and reverse, including in California, and can live with shallower tilling and a short warranty.