Earthwise Garden Corded Electric Chipper Review 2026

If you have a yard full of fallen branches, dead leaves, and garden trimmings, you know the struggle. Piling them up in bags takes forever. Burning them is messy and sometimes illegal. What if one affordable machine could turn all that waste into useful mulch in minutes?

The Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Garden Corded Electric Chipper Shredder promises exactly that. It packs a strong 15-amp motor into a compact, lightweight frame. It chips branches up to 1.75 inches thick. And it does all this without the noise, fumes, or maintenance headaches of a gas-powered chipper.

But does it actually deliver? Is it powerful enough for real yard work? Can it handle wet leaves or green branches without clogging every five minutes? These are the questions homeowners ask before spending their hard-earned cash.

Key Takeaways:

• The Earthwise GS70015 uses a 15-amp electric motor that spins at 4,500 RPM. This gives it enough power to chip dry and green branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter. It handles sticks, twigs, and small limbs with ease.
• Assembly is quick and simple. Most users report getting the unit together in about 15 to 20 minutes. The instructions are straightforward. You do not need special tools to put it together.
• It weighs only 29.8 pounds, making it one of the lightest chipper shredders on the market. You can move it around your yard without breaking a sweat. The compact dimensions of 42 x 24 x 18 inches let you store it in small spaces.
• The built-in collection bin holds 1.2 bushels of chipped material. This is convenient for small jobs but may require frequent emptying during larger projects. Some users prefer using the unit without the bin and collecting chips directly on a tarp.
• Clogging can be an issue with wet leaves and soft green material. Several users have reported that the machine tends to jam if you feed leafy or damp garden waste through it. The tamper tool helps, but you may need to pause and clear the chute from time to time.
• Priced well under $200, the Earthwise GS70015 offers solid value for homeowners with small to medium yards. It is not meant for heavy-duty commercial use. But for routine garden cleanup, it does the job at a fraction of what gas-powered chippers cost.

Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Garden Corded Electric Chipper Shredder

The Earthwise GS70015 is made by the American Lawn Mower Company. This brand has been around since 1895. They have a long history of building lawn and garden tools for residential use.

This particular model is a corded electric chipper shredder. It runs on standard 120V household power. You plug it in, flip the switch, and start feeding in branches and yard debris. There is no gas to mix, no oil to change, and no pull cord to yank.

The machine features a dual-function design. The top chute accepts branches and sticks. A separate leaf chute on the side handles softer material like leaves and light garden trimmings. This dual-input system gives you flexibility depending on the type of waste you are processing.

The collection bin attaches to the bottom of the unit. It catches the chipped and shredded output so your work area stays clean. The bin is removable. You can dump the mulch straight into your compost pile or spread it around flower beds.

Overall, the GS70015 fills a specific gap in the market. It sits between cheap leaf mulchers and expensive gas-powered chippers. For homeowners who want something reliable, easy to use, and affordable, it checks a lot of boxes.

Motor Power and Performance

The heart of the Earthwise GS70015 is its 15-amp electric motor. This motor delivers consistent power at 4,500 RPM (revolutions per minute). That speed is enough to chip through most common yard debris you will encounter.

In real-world use, the machine handles dry branches and sticks extremely well. Feed a straight, dry branch into the top chute, and it pulls it right through. The output is a pile of small wood chips that work great for mulching or composting.

Green branches and freshly cut limbs also go through the chipper. However, the performance slows down a bit with green wood. The moisture content makes the material slightly harder to process. Still, the motor does not stall or overheat under normal conditions.

The 15-amp rating puts this chipper at the top end of what residential electric outlets can handle. You get good chipping power without needing a special circuit or generator. Just make sure you use a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for at least 15 amps if your outlet is far from your work area.

One thing to note is that the motor runs at a fixed speed. There is no variable speed control. For most home users, this is not a problem. The single speed works well across different types of material.

Build Quality and Design

The Earthwise GS70015 has a steel chipping mechanism housed inside a durable plastic body. The frame is sturdy enough for regular home use. It does not feel flimsy or cheap in your hands.

The overall design is compact. At 42 inches tall, 24 inches deep, and 18 inches wide, it does not take up much space. You can easily tuck it into a corner of your garage or garden shed between uses.

The hopper opening at the top feeds directly into the cutting blades. It is wide enough for branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter. Anything thicker than that will not fit and should not be forced in. The side leaf chute provides a secondary opening for lighter material.

Build quality is good for the price range. The plastic housing holds up well against minor bumps and outdoor conditions. The collection bin clicks into place securely. The tamper tool that comes with the unit is made of sturdy plastic and helps push material into the chute safely.

The unit does sit on a flat base without wheels. This means you pick it up and carry it rather than roll it. At just under 30 pounds, carrying it is not difficult for most people. But adding small wheels would have been a nice touch from the manufacturer.

Top 3 Alternatives for Earthwise GS70015

If you are considering other options before making a final decision, here are three strong alternatives to the Earthwise GS70015 that perform well in the same category.

Sun Joe CJ603E 15-Amp Electric Silent Wood Chipper Shredder

PowerSmart PS10 15-Amp Electric Garden Chipper Shredder

Yeryork 15-Amp 1.8 Inch Electric Wood Chipper Shredder

Each of these models offers a 15-amp motor and similar chipping capacity. The Sun Joe CJ603E stands out for its quiet operation. The PowerSmart PS10 has a strong reputation for brushless motor longevity. The Yeryork model offers a slightly larger 1.8-inch cutting diameter and an anti-jamming design. Compare features and prices to find the best fit for your specific yard care needs.

Ease of Assembly

One of the biggest selling points of the Earthwise GS70015 is how easy it is to put together. Most buyers report completing assembly in 15 to 20 minutes. Some experienced DIYers finish even faster.

The box includes the main body, the collection bin, the hopper, the leaf chute, the tamper tool, and all necessary hardware. The instruction manual walks you through each step with clear diagrams. You do not need any specialized tools. A basic screwdriver and wrench are all you need.

The hopper attaches to the top of the unit with a few bolts. The leaf chute slides into its designated slot on the side. The collection bin simply clips onto the base. Everything lines up well, and the parts fit together without forcing.

A few users have mentioned that the bolt holes sometimes need a little coaxing to align. This is a minor issue. Gently wiggling the parts usually does the trick. No drilling or modification is required.

Overall, assembly is a hassle-free experience. If you have ever put together a piece of IKEA furniture, you can handle this chipper without any trouble.

Chipping Capacity and Material Handling

The Earthwise GS70015 is rated to chip branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter. This covers most of the common pruning waste you will deal with in a typical residential yard. Think small tree limbs, shrub trimmings, and dead branches.

Straight branches go through the machine smoothly. The chipper grabs them and pulls them in. You hear a satisfying crunch, and wood chips come out the bottom. The output size is suitable for mulching garden beds or adding to compost piles.

Branches with side shoots or forks can cause issues. The side twigs can catch on the hopper opening and create a jam. The best approach is to trim off any side branches before feeding the main stem into the chipper. This extra step adds time but prevents frustration.

Leaves and soft garden waste go through the side leaf chute. The results here are mixed. Dry leaves process fairly well. They break down into smaller pieces. Wet or green leaves tend to clump together and clog the chute. Using the tamper tool helps push them through, but expect some interruptions.

For best results, stick to dry or semi-dry material. Let your garden waste sit in the sun for a day or two before chipping. This reduces moisture content and improves the machine’s performance significantly.

Noise Level

Electric chippers are generally quieter than gas models. The Earthwise GS70015 follows this trend. It produces a moderate noise level that most users find acceptable for residential areas.

You will still want to wear hearing protection during extended use. The motor hum combined with the sound of branches being chipped creates a steady, loud drone. It is not painfully loud, but it is noticeable.

Compared to gas-powered chippers, the GS70015 is significantly quieter. Your neighbors will appreciate the difference. You can comfortably run this machine on a weekend morning without starting a feud with the people next door.

The noise stays consistent during operation. It does not spike or fluctuate wildly. When the machine is idling with no material being fed in, the noise drops to a low hum. This predictability makes it more comfortable to use over longer sessions.

If noise is a top priority for you, look at models like the Sun Joe CJ603E. That unit specifically markets itself as a “silent” chipper. However, for most home users, the Earthwise noise level is perfectly manageable.

Safety Features

Safety matters with any power tool, and the Earthwise GS70015 includes several features to keep you protected during operation.

The hopper design prevents hand contact with the blades. The opening is narrow and deep. Your fingers cannot reach the cutting mechanism even if you tried. This is a critical safety element that the manufacturer got right.

The included tamper tool adds another layer of protection. Instead of pushing material into the chute with your hands, you use this tool. It keeps your fingers far from any moving parts. Always use it, especially with the leaf chute.

The machine also features a safety switch that prevents accidental startup. You need to deliberately engage the switch to turn the motor on. This is important if you have children or pets around your workspace.

The collection bin acts as a safety interlock on some versions. The unit may not operate properly if the bin is not correctly attached. This prevents chips and debris from flying out of the bottom of the machine during operation.

Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection while using this chipper. Flying wood chips and small debris particles are a real hazard. The manufacturer’s manual emphasizes proper protective equipment, and you should take that advice seriously.

Collection Bin and Mulch Output

The Earthwise GS70015 comes with a 1.2-bushel collection bin. This bin attaches to the bottom of the unit and catches all the chipped and shredded material as it exits the machine.

For small cleanup jobs, the bin works fine. You can chip a handful of branches and dump the bin into your compost or garden bed. The size is adequate for light, occasional use. It fills up faster than you might expect during heavier work sessions.

If you are processing a large pile of branches, expect to empty the bin frequently. Some users find this interrupts their workflow. A popular workaround is to remove the bin entirely and place the chipper over a tarp or wheelbarrow. This way, the chips fall directly into a larger container.

The quality of the mulch output is good. Branches produce small, uniform wood chips. These chips break down well in compost piles. They also make attractive, functional mulch for garden paths and flower beds.

Leaf shredding produces a finer output. Dry leaves come out as small fragments, which is ideal for composting. The reduced leaf volume is impressive. You can turn several bags of loose leaves into a fraction of that volume after shredding.

The bin itself is easy to clean. A quick rinse with a garden hose removes any stuck material. It does not stain or retain odors with regular maintenance.

Maintenance and Blade Care

One of the biggest advantages of an electric chipper over a gas model is low maintenance. The Earthwise GS70015 requires very little upkeep to keep running well.

There is no engine oil to change, no spark plugs to replace, and no air filters to clean. You plug it in and it works. This simplicity saves you time and money over the life of the machine.

The cutting blades are the main component that needs attention. Over time, the blades will dull from regular use. Dull blades reduce chipping efficiency and increase the risk of jams. You should inspect the blades periodically and sharpen or replace them as needed.

Finding replacement blades can be a challenge for some users. The manufacturer sells replacement parts, but they are not always easy to locate at local hardware stores. Ordering directly from the American Lawn Mower Company website or through Amazon is your best bet.

After each use, clean out any debris stuck inside the chipping chamber. Wood fibers and leaf material can build up and cause problems during the next session. Use the tamper tool or a stick to clear the chute and cutting area.

Store the machine in a dry location when not in use. Moisture can cause rust on the metal cutting components. A garage or covered shed is ideal. Avoid leaving it outside exposed to rain or sprinklers.

Pros and Cons of the Earthwise GS70015

Every product has strengths and weaknesses. Here is an honest look at what the Earthwise GS70015 does well and where it falls short.

The biggest pros include its affordable price, strong 15-amp motor, lightweight design, and easy assembly. It chips dry branches effectively. The dual-chute system gives you options for different types of material. Maintenance is minimal compared to gas chippers. And the compact size makes storage simple.

The value for money is hard to beat. At well under $200, you get a functional chipper shredder that handles routine yard work. For homeowners with small to medium lots, this machine does what it needs to do without overcomplicating things.

On the downside, the machine struggles with wet or green leafy material. Clogging is a common complaint among users. The collection bin is small for bigger jobs. The unit lacks wheels, so you have to carry it. And the leaf chute opening is narrow, which limits how much soft material you can feed through at once.

Some users also report that the machine vibrates more than expected during heavy chipping. This is not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable during extended sessions. Wearing gloves helps dampen the vibration.

Replacement blades are not always easy to find in retail stores. You may need to order them online. This is a minor inconvenience, but worth mentioning for long-term ownership planning.

Who Should Buy the Earthwise GS70015?

This chipper shredder is ideal for a specific type of user. Understanding whether you fit that profile will help you decide if this is the right purchase.

Homeowners with small to medium yards will get the most value from the GS70015. If you regularly prune trees, trim shrubs, and clean up fallen branches, this machine saves you hours of manual labor. It turns piles of waste into usable mulch quickly.

Gardeners and composters will also appreciate this chipper. The wood chip and shredded leaf output feeds directly into compost bins. Smaller particles break down faster, which speeds up the composting process. If you maintain a compost pile, this machine becomes a valuable tool in your routine.

The Earthwise GS70015 is not the right fit for heavy-duty work. If you have thick hardwood branches, large fallen trees, or commercial-scale yard waste, you need a gas-powered chipper with more capacity. This machine has a 1.75-inch limit, and pushing it beyond that will damage the unit.

People who live in noise-sensitive neighborhoods will appreciate the electric motor. It runs much quieter than gas models. You can use it during reasonable hours without disturbing anyone.

Budget-conscious buyers will find this chipper hits a sweet spot between price and performance. You do not need to spend $500 or more to get a reliable yard waste solution. The Earthwise GS70015 proves that affordable can still mean effective.

Real User Feedback and Common Complaints

Across major retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart, the Earthwise GS70015 receives mixed to positive reviews. Most users agree it performs well for its intended purpose. But several recurring complaints appear in the feedback.

The most common complaint is clogging. Users who feed wet leaves, green hedge trimmings, or damp material into the machine report frequent jams. Some say they need to stop and clear the chute every 10 to 15 minutes. This significantly slows down the workflow.

Branching sticks with side shoots also cause problems. The narrow hopper catches on forked branches. Users recommend trimming branches into straight pieces before feeding them in. This extra prep work frustrates some buyers who expected to toss material in without preparation.

On the positive side, many users praise the easy assembly and lightweight design. Several reviews highlight how well it handles dry branches and sticks. The mulch output quality earns consistent praise. Gardeners love using the chips as ground cover and compost material.

Customer service from the American Lawn Mower Company gets generally positive marks. Users who contacted the company for replacement parts or troubleshooting help report responsive and helpful interactions.

The overall consensus is clear. If you manage your expectations and feed the right material, the Earthwise GS70015 is a solid, reliable performer. If you expect it to handle everything without preparation, you will be disappointed.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Earthwise GS70015 in 2026?

The Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Garden Corded Electric Chipper Shredder remains a strong option for budget-conscious homeowners in 2026. It is not perfect. It has limitations with wet material and soft green waste. The collection bin could be bigger. Wheels would be a welcome addition.

But for what it costs, this machine delivers real value. The 15-amp motor handles dry branches with authority. Assembly takes minutes. Maintenance is almost nonexistent. And the compact, lightweight design makes it practical for everyday use.

If your primary goal is to chip pruning waste, small branches, and dry leaves, the GS70015 will serve you well. Keep your expectations realistic. Pre-trim forked branches. Let damp material dry before processing. Follow these simple practices, and this chipper will become one of the most useful tools in your garden arsenal.

For homeowners who need more power or versatility, consider stepping up to a gas-powered unit or one of the alternatives we listed above. But for the majority of residential users, the Earthwise GS70015 hits the right balance of price, power, and practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Earthwise GS70015 handle bamboo?

No. The Earthwise GS70015 is not designed for bamboo. Bamboo is extremely dense and fibrous. Feeding it into this chipper can damage the blades and motor. Stick to standard tree branches, shrub trimmings, and leaves for best results.

How thick of a branch can the Earthwise GS70015 chip?

The manufacturer rates the GS70015 for branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter. Some users report successfully chipping branches slightly larger at around 1.8 inches. However, exceeding the rated capacity risks damaging the machine and voiding the warranty.

Does the Earthwise GS70015 work well with wet leaves?

Wet leaves are a known weak spot for this chipper. They tend to clump together and clog the leaf chute. For best results, let leaves dry out before shredding them. Dry leaves process much more smoothly and produce a finer output.

How loud is the Earthwise GS70015 during operation?

The GS70015 produces a moderate noise level. It is significantly quieter than gas-powered chippers but still loud enough to require hearing protection during extended use. Most users find the noise level acceptable for residential neighborhoods.

Where can I buy replacement blades for the Earthwise GS70015?

Replacement blades are available through the American Lawn Mower Company website and on Amazon. They may not be stocked at every local hardware store. Ordering online is the most reliable option. Check the model number GS70015 to ensure compatibility.

Is the Earthwise GS70015 good for composting?

Yes. The wood chips and shredded leaf material this machine produces are excellent for composting. The smaller particle size speeds up decomposition. Many gardeners buy this chipper specifically to feed their compost bins with shredded yard waste.