A backpack sprayer is a time saving and versatile tool. It will help you treat plants using a variety of supplements, insecticides, and chemicals. It will allow you to select the treatment of certain plants without risking the damage of non-targeted plants.
That said, investing in a high-quality product will simplify your gardening work and help you work more efficiently. In this article, we will review the best backpack sprayer on the market and also highlight the features that make these models worth the purchase.
Our top Backpack Sprayer Reviews
[amazon table=”1511960″]
Chapin 63985
[amazon fields=” B00Q03MMDO ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Chapin 63985 is a very popular backpack sprayer on the market due to its ease of use, comfort, and maintenance. The sprayer is powered by 20 voltage lithium-ion battery that runs for 1.75 hours. This allows you to effortlessly maintain uniform spray pattern, steady pressure, fixed droplet size, and constant flow rate.
The model features a motorized pump to make spraying your lawn an easy task. It also boasts of several features to ensure your comfort since it is designed for prolonged use. The chest support cinch, lumbar support, and padded adjustable back straps help minimize the strain of carrying the sprayer for an extended period.
Additionally, the shut-off assembly is equipped with a padded grip to ensure your hands are comfortable while spraying. One of the most incredible features of the Chapin sprayer is the extra-wide tank that measures 6 inches. The tank can pressurize the liquids up to 35 to 40 psi, which is more than plenty to treat your yard.
The opening on this backpack sprayer will allow you to pour liquids into the 4 gallon tank without spilling. It will also enable you to clean the tank thoroughly and effortlessly. The sprayer also has an integrated filter that prevents the nozzle from clogging and three nozzles for various applications. These factors make the 63985 sprayer an excellent choice for commercial and home use.
The only major issue with this backpack sprayer is expensive. The electric motor also makes the unit bulky as it adds to its weight. Additionally, if the sprayer gets damaged, repairing the electric version is expensive and more difficult than repairing the manual unit.
However, if you intend to use this sprayer for a few hours every day, the ease of use and comfort make this model an ideal option. Overall, this product is durable, easy to use and very comfortable
What We Like
- Lumbar support and back straps for maximum comfort
- In-built filter for preventing clogging
- Long-lasting powerful battery
- Triple filtration system
- Motorized pump
- Extra-wide opening
What We Don’t Like
- Can’t lock trigger
- Expensive
[amazon box=” B00Q03MMDO ” template=”horizontal”]
Chapin 61900
[amazon fields=” B00TLF5ILQ ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Chapin 61900 backpack sprayer is a manual version of the Chapin 63985 model. It features a manual pistol pump unlike the electrical pump of the Chapin 63985. The model also has a triple filtration system with a heavy-duty tank, a brass nozzle, and a stainless steel wand.
Although both sprayers provide lumbar support, padded straps on the 63985 model are more comfortable than those on the 61900 sprayer. This makes the 63985 backpack sprayer more suitable for prolonged use than its 61900 counterparts.
Another crucial difference concerns the tank’s opening. The Chapin 61900 sprayer tank features a 4-inch opening which is two inches smaller than that on the Chapin 63985 sprayer tank. This makes cleaning the 61900 backpack sprayer a bit difficult if you have big hands.
Since the tank needs to be cleaned regularly, we recommend the extra-wide opening on the 63985 unit to make maintenance easier. The one feature we always look for in a backpack unit is sturdy harness as it will come in handy during extended use and the Chapin sprayer has met this expectation.
The shoulder straps are fully padded, thick, and wide. There is also a waist and chest belt to provide maximum support. This backpack sprayer can reach up to 20 feet using the adjustable nozzle. Its piston pump can provide up to 50 PSI.
Another interesting thing about this model is that it’s leak proof. So, you don’t have to worry about dangerous chemicals spilling on your back. It’s compatible with commercial liquid fertilizers, pesticides, and standard herbicides.
Additionally, it is equipped with the control flow valve that limits the flow to 21PSI. The valve is designed in a way that it shuts off when the pressure is below this level. It will prevent chemicals from dripping to places it is not required.
With this backpack sprayer, you can pump, spray, and walk at the same time. However, it can cause hand fatigue as it requires pumping frequently to maintain the pressure.
What We Like
- Compatible with liquid fertilizers and conventional herbicides
- Three nozzles for different applications
- Triple filtration system for optimum performance
- Chest and shoulder straps for maximum comfort
- The control flow valve
- Heavy-duty tank
What We Don’t Like
- Frequent pumping
- Handle lacks flexibility
[amazon box=” B00TLF5ILQ ” template=”horizontal”]
Roundup 190314
[amazon fields=” B00FN3MS8Q ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
A backup sprayer that does not break down while offering you maximum comfort is what you need, especially if you intend to spend a lot of time working outdoors. The Roundup 190314 sprayer fits this description.
This model is equipped with lumbar support, a waist strap, and deluxe padded straps to give you extended hours of outdoor comfort. Therefore, you do not have to worry about the chest and back pains. It also comes with an in-line filter, a shut off that has a lock on feature, and a heavy-duty poly wand for continuous spraying.
This 4-gallon sprayer will also enable you to meet all your spraying needs. These include growing vegetables and flowers as well as controlling pests and weeds in a single purchase. The capacity is ideal when you are working on large farms.
When it comes to versatility, the Roundup backup sprayer features three nozzles. These are poly adjustable, low volume fan, and high volume fan. This reliable unit is one of the best sprayers you can have for commercial liquid fertilizers, weed killers, and pesticides.
Another impressive feature of this model is its 10 pound weight. This is quite lightweight considering that this sprayer has a 4-gallon tank. Generally, most tanks become heavier when you keep filling them. However, in this scenario, the low base weight of this sprayer helps a lot.
The 190314 backup sprayer comes with a corrosion-resistant and heavy-duty 21-inch wand. The wand ensures you can reach inaccessible spaces and you are not hunched over while working. It also has the gaskets and Viton seals throughout the pump to ensure chemical resistance.
The model can spray with a power of 90 PSI while delivering impressive performance. One issue with this backup sprayer is that even though the straps are comfortable when new, they are not durable.
Overall, this sprayer works well. However, it would perform better if you upgrade it with other accessories like quality shoulder straps
What We Like
- Viton seals to ensure chemical resistance
- Three nozzles for versatility
- Adjustable padded straps
- Durable poly wand
- 4-gallon tank
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Shoulder straps not durable
[amazon box=” B00FN3MS8Q ” template=”horizontal”]
Field King 190328
[amazon fields=” B000AYHKUO ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The last thing you may want from a sprayer is working with a leaky tank. Apart from it being annoying, it can also be harmful if you are dealing with corrosive chemicals. The Field King 190328 is integrated with a no-leak pump design to avoid such cases. It prevents chemicals from spilling on your body.
The model is a manual sprayer that combines several durable components with a 4-gallon tank. The tank produces 150 PSI powerful sprays of the mixtures you may want using a simple pump design that is easy to use. This gives you flexibility in controlling the flow rate, drop size, and spray pattern.
The pump is connected to a built-in agitator that mixes the content inside the tank to ensure there is uniformity in the spray solution. One remarkable feature of the Field King sprayer is that it’s equipped with four nozzle options to give you a wide selection of sprays to use across different fields.
This includes the forming nozzle, narrow flat fan, wide flat fan, and the adjustable brass nozzle. You can attach the TeeJet nozzle to enhance the functionality of your spray. Using this backpack sprayer is very easy because you can spray even when walking and pumping at the same time.
The good thing about the 190328 sprayer is that it does not require many pumps to get the correct pressure. The handle can also be fixed either for left or right-handed use, making it an excellent choice for left-handed people. This model also comes with a shut-off assembly that has a lock-in mechanism for ensuring your spraying hand doesn’t strain.
Despite the functionality and outstanding features of this sprayer, some parts are prone to wear and tear. However, this product is designed for longevity because repairing or replacing the damaged parts is easy when the model breaks.
What We Like
- Pump handles can attach to the right or left side
- Compatibility with TeeJet nozzles
- Builds pressure up to 150 PSI
- Parts are easy to repair and replace
- No-leak pump design
- Internal agitator
What We Don’t Like
- Straps need improvement
- No lumbar support
- No pressure gauge
[amazon box=” B000AYHKUO ” template=”horizontal”]
M4 My 4 Sons
[amazon fields=” B01DWCTSQE ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
If you are looking for a battery-powered model, the My 4 Sons backpack sprayer is a great option. The battery-powered operation means you won’t have to worry about pumping to pressurize the liquid inside the four-gallon translucent tank. The 8 amperage battery delivers impressive battery life and can last you up to three times longer than standard units.
Running out of power is another thing you do not have to worry about. The battery is equipped with indicator lights to help you track power levels. It’s a bit bulkier than other sprayers. This is because of the 12 voltage lead-acid battery that can allow you to pump up to 200 gallons of chemicals in one round.
The package includes multiple nozzles for different types of sprays, a steel wand for various chemicals, and a plastic wand you can use to spray acids. Unlike the Chapin 63985 that does not lock the trigger, this backpack features a lock-on mechanism to keep the solution pressurized. So, no need to hold down the trigger.
The M4 model can pressurize the chemicals to 60 PSI and give you a vertical range of up to 20 feet. This product can be an ideal option if you intend to spray tall trees or walls. If you want to cover longer or shorter distances, you can use the adjustable pressure dial.
The unit boasts of four easy to attach nozzles that include a fine mist nozzle, a double mist nozzle, an adjustable brass nozzle and a flat TeeJet nozzle. The screen filter is designed to prevent dirt and debris from entering the tank. There is also a large opening to minimize spillage and to enable you to fill the sprayer faster and effortlessly.
This backup is the most expensive on our list. However, it is worth it considering the several features it has. One major issue with this model is its shoulder straps.
Overall, this product is rated highly as it comes with a range of helpful features and covers large areas using high pressure.
What We Like
- Heavy-duty shoulder straps
- 8 amperage lead acid battery
- Battery-powered
- Multiple nozzles
- Lock-on feature
- Extra-long wand
What We Don’t Like
- A little bulky
- Expensive
[amazon box=” B01DWCTSQE ” template=”horizontal”]
Backpack Sprayer Features and Considerations
Gardening requires a lot of time since you need to protect the plants from pests, water them constantly, and add fertilizers. An easy way to perform all those tasks is to invest in a sprayer you can fill with all the liquids you need. This will help you complete the tasks faster.
However, choosing the best backpack sprayer for your needs can be overwhelming since there are many models available. Check out our detailed guide to find out the most essential features your sprayer should have.
Type of Backpack Sprayer
There are many options available while shopping for your backpack sprayer. However, you should think about the way you would want to operate the sprayer since this will have an impact on your purchasing decision. Here are the main types of back sprayers available:
Motorized Sprayers vs. Manual Sprayers
There is no major benefit to choosing a manual or motorized backpack sprayer. It all depends on what you prefer. A manual sprayer operates through your hand’s motions. Motorized motors can be powered by batteries or electricity.
Manual backpack sprayers are the most affordable and common types of sprayers. However, they can cause fatigue because you will have to pump the model continuously to spray the chemicals on your plants.
If you have a small garden or lawn, a manual sprayer is a perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are working on a large surface area, you may want to consider a battery or an electric backpack sprayer.
These types of sprayers will help you complete the job faster while taking the pressure off your hands. However, bear in mind that they tend to be bulkier and require high maintenance.
Diaphragm Backpack Sprayers vs. Piston Sprayers
Piston backpack sprayers are also referred to as backpack pump sprayers. These require the lever to be pumped to create pressure that will force down the liquid into the wand. They are very affordable. However, you can’t use them for certain chemicals because they can easily wear away at the piston.
When it comes to diaphragm sprayers, they also work as the piston sprayers. However, they are more resistant to chemicals and are not equipped with an internal cylinder. To create pressure, ensure the handle pumping motion moves the diaphragm. Though they apply pressure quickly, they are harder to maintain and more expensive.
Type of Nozzle
The type of nozzle you will find on your sprayer is another important factor you should pay attention to. It’s the most crucial part of the model because it controls the flow and pattern of your spray. A majority of high-quality backpack sprayers come with different nozzle types.
This allows you to easily switch between options like the narrow stream, direct stream, wide stream, fan, and cone. Additionally, some have several units that you can swap out while others come with adjustable nozzles.
It is also important to consider the material that your sprayer is made of and not just the type of nozzle. They tend to wear down with time. Brass and bronze nozzles are the best choice. However, they are more expensive.
Some common nozzle types include:
- Cone Sprays: There are two variations which include full cone and hollow cone. The hollow cone creates ring-shaped patterns that are ideal for direct spray applications and air-blast applications. Full cone spray nozzles form circular spray patterns and deliver coarse droplets that come in larger quantities.
- Flat Fan: This type of nozzle creates an inverted letter V that is narrow and delivers a uniform distribution of the solution. They also create flat sheets of spray that are characterized by medium velocity and large sizes of drops.
The impact of this pattern is very high compared to that of hollow or full cone spray patterns. However, it tends to be lower in contrast when compared to the stream nozzle.
- Streaming Nozzles: Generally, streaming nozzles are used for applying liquid fertilizers. However, you can also use them in other applications. The stream spray pattern reduces the foliar coverage while projecting more chemical on the soil. This makes the soil to absorb the liquid easily so that the plants can benefit.
Tank Size
This is one of the most crucial things you should check in any type of a backpack sprayer when shopping regardless of whether it’s an expensive or affordable model. Most sprayers designed for commercial use are equipped with a four-gallon tank which is enough to cover a lawn, backyard, or a small vegetable garden.
On the other hand, backpack sprayers designed for industrial use feature larger tanks of more than 20 gallons because they need to cover larger surface areas. Regardless of the size of the tank you pick, ensure it’s translucent.
This will enable you to easily see and know when it needs to be refilled. Also, opt for sprayers made with secure locks and sturdy materials that will prevent the chemicals from leaking out and cause burns, irritations, and rashes on your skin.
Pressure
The pressure is another crucial factor you should put into consideration while you are shopping for your sprayer. Many backpack sprayers can give you between 15 to 95 PSI. However, some can deliver an impressive 150 PSI of pressure.
Keep in mind that you don’t always need this. The consistency of the pressure is what you should focus on rather than the amount of pressure the unit produces. Ideally, you should go for a product that delivers consistent pressure as you hold down the trigger.
All the models tend to have less pressure due to the amount of the liquid that keeps decreasing. A good backpack sprayer will remain even throughout the process.
Spray Wand
This is one of the most important accessories on a backpack sprayer and will allow you to apply the chemical you want to use. The wand will enable you to apply herbicide or fertilizer in difficult to reach places.
As such, a good quality sprayer should have a wand you can adjust. Or it should have one that adapts to the different settings you may be working in. It may also have a long wand measuring at least 20 inches. If the spray wand is not extra long, you may not be able to reach your intended target especially if it’s a tree.
It should also be suitable for right and left-handed use. Consideration should also be given to the materials the wand is made of. Typically, wands are made of plastic. However, some manufacturers use brass to provide maximum durability.
Weight
Backpack sprayers are built to be portable. However, that doesn’t mean every unit is lightweight. So, you should decide the weight you feel comfortable carrying. It’s important to mention that the weights indicated in product descriptions only refer to the unit. They don’t factor in the solution you will be spraying.
So, this is something you will have to think about. Most sprayers on the market like those we have reviewed weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. This may not seem like much difference. However, if you intend to spray for a long period, you will notice it.
After factoring in the solution, you may have a model that weighs more which some people may find difficult to handle. It’s therefore crucial that you strike a balance between usability and capacity.
Ease of Use and Comfort
Most backpack sprayers are equipped with shoulder straps or harnesses that can fit well over your shoulders and are also designed to be portable. In some cases, the model will have straps for your waist and chest to help distribute the sprayer’s weight. The best backpack sprayers should also have ergonomic handles and padded straps.
Another key factor you should consider is whether you will have an easy time using your sprayer. For this reason, you should check whether it’s leak-proof so you don’t have to worry about chemicals dripping on your body. You should also opt for products that have an easy shut-off function with adjustable wand and straps.
All these are important considerations that you need to make. Keep these in mind when you are shopping for a backpack sprayer that you want to last for a long period.
Durability
A quality backpack sprayer should be constructed with high-quality materials. So, you should not go for a unit that requires difficult and expensive repairs or one that may leak chemicals all over you. Instead, look for industrial-strength seals and materials that can be replaced easily should a need arise.
Wrap Up
It’s important to analyze your needs before buying any product. Make sure the backpack sprayer you choose eases your work instead of making it more tedious. Although finding a reliable product can be overwhelming, we can assure you the products on our list are worth considering. We also hope that the information in our guide will simplify the shopping process for you.
