Pressure washers are great for removing tough stains and dried-on dirt and grime. These devices use powerful sprays of water and soap to clear away paint, mud, residue, and more. They can be used on all kinds of surfaces, including driveways, decks, patios, walls and siding, and all kinds of vehicles.
There are also plenty of varieties to choose from when looking at a pressure washer. There are cordless units, as well as those that are powered by electricity or by gas. A range of sizes ensures that everyone can find just the right device for them.
What To Look For When Getting A Pressure Washer
There are several factors that you should consider before purchasing a new pressure washer.
PSI
PSI or pound-force per square inch is a standard unit of pressure (or a unit of stress). Each pressure washer machine should state information about its maximum PSI. Over the years there have been quite a lot of reports from customers stating that the advertised PSI on various machines is exaggerated. In my opinion, this is false advertisement and should be punishable by fines.
With that being said, please double check the max. PSI stated by the manufacturer and also read online verified reviews that can confirm the information.
GPM
GPM or Gallons per minute is another factor to consider. Where PSI refers to the amount of pressure, GPM refers to the amount of flow. The two do not necessary go hand-in-hand. You can get your hands on a pressure washer with 3000 PSI, but only as low as 1.0 GPM.
By multiplying PSI by GPM, you will get CU – Cleaning Units. CU provides information about a unit’s performance (its efficiency) in total, so you easily compare one model to another.
Here are 2 examples:
- Pressure Washer 1 with 2000 PSI and 1.5 GPM has a total of 3000 Cleaning Units
- Pressure Washer 2 with 2500 PSI and 1.2 GPM has a total of 3000 Cleaning Units
As you can see, both machines have 3000 CU, but Pressure Washer 1 has more rinsing power (more GPM), but less stripping power (less PSI).
Generally speaking, GPM is a bit more important than PSI, but nowadays, most pressure washers are built with perfect balance between the two. Personally, I’d say that anything above 1.1 GPM will do the job just fine – unless you plan to wash off oil from elephants, then it might not be enough.
Portability & Size
If you plan on using your new pressure washer several times a week, then I’d suggest to consider its portability. There are several machines that are lightweight and compact, but often in such cases you’ll have to sacrifice power. But then again, you can find a perfect balance suited just for you, if you know what to look for.
Alternatively, you can purchase 25-feet extension hose, (which is available for most pressure washers) so you don’t have to transport the washer that often.
Noise Level
Since the purpose of this review guide is to find the best, yet quietest pressure washers, the noise level is definitely something to consider. Now if we look at it logically, more power equals more noise, right?
Well, not entirely. Did you know that even pressure washers have models with unique designs that have the capability to limit noise? That’s right, there are electric pressure washers that don’t go over 70 decibels directly at the machine – I mean, how cool is that?
Unfortunately, most manufacturers do not provide this kind of information, so it is up to us to either get our hands on these machines and check the noise ourselves, or ask one of the verified customers to provide us with such information.
In either case, the result is that you can compare the most quiet machines via our comparison table.
Gas vs. Electric
Another factor to consider is electricity vs. gas. I just realized that every single machine that I’ve listed is electric. Well, the reason behind this is quite simple – in general, electric pressure washers are far quieter than the ones powered by gas.
On the other hand, gas pressure washers have more rinsing and stripping power. So as long as you don’t need 3200 + PSI and 2.2+ GPM, most electric pressure washers will do the job just fine.
Cord vs. Cordless
If you are looking for maximum portability and you hate dragging a cord behind you everywhere, then you might want to consider a cordless pressure washer.
Now, I did not list a single cordless pressure washer in this guide for two reasons:
- I will probably write a guide specifically for cordless electric pressure washers in the near future.
- Cordless electric pressure washers have a lot less PSI and GPM than ones with cord, so it wouldn’t be a fair comparison.
Warranty
This is something people tend to forget about, but warranty might be quite important, especially if you are paying big bucks for a product and the seller / manufacturer doesn’t state this information directly on the product page.
In some cases, you can purchase additional years of warranty and also several different warranty types. Make sure you know when you are eligible for product replacement and/or money back guarantee.
Quick Comparison Table
Which Ones are the Best and Quietest?
One of the common complaints about these machines is that they can be quite loud, and that can disrupt the family and neighbors. This list will help with finding the quietest pressure washer, no matter what the budget or need. When looking for a new pressure washer, consumers should pay attention to things such as what kind of power they want (electric or gas), how powerful a motor they need, the different spray attachments they want, gallons per minute, noise level, and price. It’s a lot to think about, but this guide will be helpful in choosing just the right model.
1) Sun Joe SPX3500 2300 Max Psi 1.48 Gpm
The very first on our list is Sun Joe SPX3500 electric pressure washer. This is one of the quietest pressure washers on the market, with the noise level of 69 decibels, measured directly at the machine.
The machine is quite powerful, offering 14.5 Amp / 1800-watt motor that can generate up to 2300 PSI. This is an all-purpose tool, meaning you can use to pressure-wash your car, boat, patio, equipment of various sorts, buildings, etc.
- Very quiet run at 69 dB
- Quite easy to put together
- Variety of spray tips
- High-quality plastic materials
- Heavy
- Several users reported that 2300 PSI is exaggerated, but it’s still plenty powerful
Our rating: 
4.7 / 5
2) Ryobi RY141612 – 1600 PSI Compact Electric Pressure Washer
If you are looking for a semi-powerful, quiet and very compact electric pressure washer, then Ryobi model RY141612 might be the best option for you. The noise level measured at the machine is 77 dB, which is still quiet, considering the power.
The Ryobi is very small compared to other models, measuring 12.5 x 10 x 9.5 inches with the weight of 16.4 pounds. If you don’t need a 3000 PSI+ pressure washer and you also don’t want to drag some heavy unit with you, then Ryobi RY141612 is your choice.
- Quiet run at 77 dB
- Small and compact
- Very easy to transport
- Affordable
- Not as powerful as other models
Our rating: 4.7 / 5
3) Sun Joe SPX3000 – 2030 Max PSI
SPX3000 by Sun Joe speaks for itself. It has been on the market for some time now and has over one hundred thousand positive reviews posted online. This affordable electric pressure washer is equipped with a 14.5 AMP motor and can generate up to 2030 PSI. The noise level at the machine is about 83 decibels, which is not as silent as other models on our list, but it’s still quiet, considering its power.
The machine is also quite compact and lightweight, a perfect balance between Sun Joe SPX 3500 and Ryobi RY141612. All-in-all, one of the best and quietest pressure washers on the market.
- Noise level at 83 dB
- Compact and lightweight
- Portable
- Affordable
- Some plastic parts are made of cheaper materials
Our rating: 
4.6 / 5
4) Sun Joe SPX3000-BLK
Younger brother of the standard and famous SPX3000 model, the BLK version comes with a few upgrades to its predecessor. The main difference is that the motor is not corded-electric but simply electric. This Sun Joe model gets high marks for its power and efficiency. It has a 14.5-amp/1800-watt motor that can rev up to 2030 PSI. Its max water temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
This quiet pressure washer is suitable for vehicles, driveways, patios, building walls, and more. It has two detergent tanks, each of which holds 0.9 litres of liquid and is removable from the device. Users can fill each tank with a different detergent to make the most of their power washing.
This is also an eco-friendly option since it automatically shuts off when it’s on but not in use. This conserves power and ensures clients get the longest life out of the device. Users can choose from five distinct spray tips so they can get just the right coverage for their particular cleaning project. The five spray tips include soap, 40°, 25°, 15°, and 0°.
- Quiet on all spray settings
- Simple to put together
- Variety of spray tips
- Requires specific detergents
- Weaker motor
Our rating: 4.6 / 5
5) Homdox 2600 PSI Electric Pressure Washer
Next on our list is a 1600W power pressure washer made by Homdox. This guy comes in compact and upright design with axle-mounted wheels for easy transportation. It comes with a total-stop system (TSS) which uses automatic stop mechanism for pump when the trigger is not engaged. Standard features are 4 interchangeable nozzles, ranging from 0º, 15º, 25º, to 40º and 6m high pressure hose for higher reach.
The force of rated pressure is 2000 PSI with the maximum of 2600PSI and 1.6 GPM. It also comes with 33-ft power cord with inline GFCI, which can be used on all exterior outlets. While Homdox doesn’t specific exact dB for this machine, several users reported that it’s very quiet compared to gas pressure washers and also older electric models.
- Affordable
- 6m high pressure hose
- Compact and upright design
- TSS automatic stop system
- Hose is not very flexible
Our rating: 
4.4 / 5
6) AR Annovi Reverberi AR390SS
This particular quiet pressure washer is perfect for outdoor cleaning. It’s one of the most popular models for quick and easy washes on a variety of surfaces, such as decks, patios, driveways, outdoor vehicles, walls and siding, and more. It was also one of the top picks for electric pressure washers in a 2016 Consumer Report. It has a universal 120-volt/60-Hz motor and a burst pressure of 2000 PSI. Its electric pressure hose measures 30 feet long, making it easy to clean all of those hard-to-reach places.
This pressure washer is quick and easy to assemble, plus it is at the top of the list for the quietest pressure washer, especially when compared to gas models. Comparing it to a garden hose, this model uses 80% less water, but boasts 40% more power, resulting in a faster, deeper clean. It comes with four spray nozzles that can quickly be switched in and out, as well as a 48-ounce detergent tank. This pressure washer won’t overheat, even after extended usage.
- Conserves water usage
- Easy assembly
- Four quick-change spray tips
- Large detergent tank
- Surface suction capability
- Electric hose lacks flexibility
- Not as sturdy as other models
Our rating: 
4.3 / 5
7) Ivation Multipurpose Portable Spray Washer
This portable option is convenient because it runs on a rechargeable battery, making it quite versatile. It also comes with a home plug and a 12-volt car plug for ease of use. The roller wheels are smooth and functional, while clients can also choose to carry the device by its top handle. Its diaphragm motor pump boasts 60 watts of power, and users can expect a nice continuous spray from the efficient spray nozzle. The maximum pressure is 130.5 pounds per square inch, making this one of the quietest pressure washers on the market.
At just under 17 pounds, it is no problem to pick this up or roll it where it needs to go. Its overall dimensions are 14 inches by 9 inches by 21 inches and its hose has a length of 19.6 feet. A 4.5-gallon reservoir holds water and soap, making it a quiet pressure washer with a convenient design. The all-in-one design is compact, portable, and is guaranteed to get the job done. It’s a great pressure washer to have around the house or in the garage for any time. Charge it and power up on-the-go for a deep clean anywhere. The Ivation comes with five sprayer attachments, as well as suction and turbo cleaning options.
- Dependable design for longer cleanings
- Portable design with a rechargeable battery
- Variety of sprayer options
- Takes more time to assemble than others
- Weaker motor than competitors
Our rating: 
4.2 / 5
8) Karcher K5 Premium
This model is an upgrade from its competitors. The K5 Premium is quicker while also getting a deeper clean on all kinds of surfaces. This quiet pressure washer features 1.4-GPM, 2000 PSI of power and a Vario power spray and a Dirtblaster spray wand. The Dirtblaster is great for heavy-duty cleaning, while the Vario is suitable for everyday sprucing up. Moreover, these wands feature a patented technology that makes this pressure washer a force to be reckoned with. A hose reel sits on the side of the unit to easily store away the 25-foot hose.
This pressure washer also features a noncorrosive N-COR pump and a water-cooled induction motor, which prolongs the life of the device and makes it one of the quietest pressure washers out there. The detergent tank shoots with a power of 120V/60Hz. A tall vertical handle allows for simpler transport, and the entire unit weighs 32 pounds. The 35-foot power cord ensures that users can plug this washer up wherever they need it.
- Patented spray wand technology
- Streamlined design
- Very low on noise
- Water-cooled induction motor
- Heavier than other models
- Not as durable as other models
Our rating: 
4.0 / 5
9) Sun Joe SPX6000C-XR iON
This cordless pressure washer invites users to clean every nook and cranny that other models can’t touch. It has a 5.0-amp battery along with a 40V/600-watt motor. This is the ideal pressure washer for those who need quick touch ups here and there. Plus, they can bring it just about anywhere. This device reaches 1160 PSI and .79 gallons per minute and comes with a top-loading 5.3-gallon bucket that is detachable for ease of use. There is also an 8.5-ounce detergent bucket.
This Sun Joe model comes with four distinct quick-change spray tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, as well as a soap spray attachment. The 20-foot pressure hose comes with a garden hose adapter for added convenience.
There is also a 34-inch extender wand and a clean-out tool to keep the device from getting clogged. Users can recharge the lithium-ion battery whenever they need to so they can take this cordless pressure washer wherever they need it. At just 19 pounds, it’s a compact unit to keep around.
All-in-all, while not the most powerful of all pressure washers, it’s still a machine to consider.
- Convenient and compact cordless design
- Easy assembly
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Simple to use
- Variety of spray tip attachments
- Not as efficient at heavy-duty cleaning jobs
- Weaker power than competitors
Our rating: 4.0 / 5
Summary
Now you have all the information they need to make a more informed decision about how to find the quietest pressure washer. Again, it depends on your budget, as well as whether you prefer gas powered or electric. Either way, you can find a quiet model that offers a deep clean and a solid reputation. Having a pressure washer seriously changes the way people approach spring cleaning and the upkeep of their home, so it’s definitely a worthy investment.
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