Another huge time saver to help with garden chores is a cultivator. Whether you are weeding the garden, mixing compost or removing dead spots from the lawn, a garden cultivator is the best way to get the job done quickly. For smaller areas, I like the cordless models since they allow let you get in those tight spaces without trampling your plants.
A cordless cultivator makes weeding and soil prepping a cinch. Without any cords to deal with, you’re free to move around the garden without worrying about tripping over cords or having them shredded by the tines. If you’ve done any work with electric tools that need to be plugged in, I’m sure you’ve shredded a few cords or sprained a few ankles as you get tied up in 30 feet of extension cord.
Compare Our Top Picks
Editor’s Note: Links to our featured products are included in this article where you can learn more about each product. We may receive commissions on purchases made through these links.
Here is a quick comparison chart of the top-selling cordless models. Click the product links to get detailed product information and see the current pricing on Amazon.com.
| Brand & Model | Volts | Weight | Size | Price | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black and Decker LGC120 | 20 | 11.7 lbs | 41.5 x 8.4 x 7.8 x inches | $$ | Planting Prep Weeding between plants Lawn Aeration/ Dead Spot Removal |
| SunJoe 24V-TLR-LTE | 24 | 6 lbs | 43 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches | $$ | Lightest Handheld Tool Weeding between plants Seedbed Prep |
| Earthwise TC70020 | 20 | 9 lbs | 52 x 9 x 14 inches | $$ | Tilling to 6 inches Bed Preparation Weeding Wider Areas |
Read on for an in-depth review of my top picks for this category and some additional information on choosing the right garden cultivator or tiller for the type of project you have in mind.
Why Cordless Is Better for Small Gardens
When it comes to small gardens, cordless cultivators are hard to beat. Why? For starters, you won’t be tripping over cords while you’re working. And there’s no need to worry about ruining delicate plants by dragging the cord over them. There’s a lot to love about cord-free cultivators.
Cordless is a better option for small gardens because you don’t have to worry about the battery dying while you’re in the middle of a job. In most cases, a single charge is all you need to get the job done.
Top 3 Cordless Cultivators Reviewed
Looking for the best cordless cultivator? I’ll share my top 3 picks in my review roundup.
1. Black and Decker LGC120 Garden Cultivator
The Black and Decker LGC120 is the best small tiller in the $100 price range. If you’re working in a small garden, this little cultivator will make quick work of breaking up soil.
Its powerful transmission is powered by a 20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery, which is included. Lithium-ion batteries are a better option than NiCad batteries. They hold a charge longer, and they have a longer lifespan. While the LGC120 is a small garden tiller, it can cultivate up to 325 square feet on just one charge.
The counter-oscillating tines also prevent weeds from tangling, which makes it easier and quicker to get the job done. And if you’re worried about fatigue, this model has a comfortable grip, adjustable handle and weighs just 8 pounds.
Features at a Glance
- 20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery; recharges in 8 hours
- Cultivates 325 square feet per charge
- Counter-oscillating tines to prevent weed tangling
- Comfortable grip
- Adjustable handle
2. SunJoe 24V-TLR-LTE 24-Volt Amp Cordless Garden Tiller + Cultivator
Looking for an even smaller, lightweight model? The SunJoe 24V-TLR-LTE is a smart choice. With a weight of just 6 pounds, this SunJoe garden cultivator will get the job done without causing fatigue in your arms or back.
This model features dual tilling blades that cultivate the soil to a depth of 6 inches. The slim design of just 4.25 inches wide allows you to weed in between plants or in tighter spaces. The telescoping shaft is adjustable from 28 to 37 inches, so it’s easy to select a comfortable reach for your height.
The SunJoe cordless tiller is powered by a 24V battery and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. This should be more than enough power for weeding and soil aeration in a small bed.
With an adjustable, comfortable grip and a tilling depth to six inches, the SunJoe Cordless Garden Tiller + Cultivator is a great lightweight option for small garden weeding and prepping the soil before planting.
Our choice for the best lightweight cultivator.
Features at a Glance
- Powered by a 24V battery
- Dual tines clear a path of 4.25 inches wide by 6 inches deep
- Adjustable telescoping handle
- Comfortable grip
- Weighs just 6 pounds
3. Earthwise TC70020 20-Volt 7.5-Inch Cordless Electric Tiller Cultivator
If you need a slightly wider tilling width, take a look at the Earthwise TC70020. This model clears a path of 7.5 inches wide compared to SunJoe’s 4.5 inches. Both work the soil to a depth of 6 inches.
Earthwise is a well-known brand in the home gardening industry. The TC70020 cordless cultivator offers the versatility and reliability you’d expect from the brand including an ergonomic design, an easy on/off safety switch and an adjustable support handle.
The Earthwise TC70020 is ideal for small gardens and weighs in at 9 pounds. And if you have a slightly larger plot, then an upgraded version, (the TC70040) is also available with a tilling width of 11 inches.
Features at a Glance
• 20V 2.0 AH battery with a fast charger
• 4 steel tines
• Clears up to 7.5 inches wide and 6 inches deep
• Adjustable support handle
• Single level switch for reliable starting
• Safety switch with a full grip trigger
Are A Tiller and a Cultivator the Same Thing?
Actually, no they are not. You may hear many home gardeners and even companies using these two terms interchangeably, but they’re two very different tools. A few models can perform both jobs, but for the most part, they are separate tasks.
Tillers
Tillers are designed to dig and mix hard soil into loose soil. There are two different types of tillers: front tine and rear tine. The right one for you will depend on what you’re using the tiller for.
- Front tines are a great option if you’re breaking soft ground, or you’re going to be cultivating a small or medium garden. They’re easy to maneuver, too, because the wheels are on the back of the machine.
- Rear tines are a great option if you’re braking hard ground, digging large gardens, and for loosening up rocky or hard soil. These tillers are larger and less maneuverable than their front tine counterpart.
Cultivators
A cultivator is designed for stirring in compost or fertilizer, and for mixing up the loose soil before planting. You can also use them to keep weed growth under control. Cultivators will loosen the top layer of soil, making you’re weeding chores go much faster. They’re not quite as powerful as a tiller, and won’t be able to loosen hard soil or break hard ground.
One advantage cultivators have over tillers is that they blend soil much finer. Many gardeners prefer to use a cultivator to put the finishing touches on their garden before they start planting seeds. Another favorite use of the cultivator is to remove the dead spots in your lawn. It’s just the right size to pull up the old grass without destroying your entire lawn.
The Pros & Cons of Cordless Cultivators
How does a cordless cultivator compare to a gas-powered or corded model?
Pros
- No cords to trip over
- No cords for the tines to shred
- No cords to damage plants
- No fumes
- No oil or gas to mix
- Can take care of most small garden jobs on a single charge
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Not quite as powerful as electric or gas-powered models
- Battery life can be short, depending on the manufacturer
Overall, there are more advantages than disadvantages when it comes to using these tools in smaller gardens or for spot treating the lawn. You just can’t beat the convenience and freedom of the cordless models.
In Summary
If you’re looking for a cordless cultivator for your small garden, these three models are your best bets. All three are affordably-priced, reliable and comfortable to use. But the Black & Decker Cultivator is still our favorite choice.
Click Here to Find More Battery Operated Garden Tillers on Amazon.