If you’re choosing between the Greenworks and Sun Joe dethatchers, you’re not alone. I’ve used both and felt how different they can be. Each one does a good job, but they work best for different types of yards.
I tested them on my own lawn here in the U.S., and the results really surprised me. Over the years, I’ve tried many lawn tools. Some made things harder than they needed to be. But these two kept things simple. Let’s look at the key differences so you can pick the one that fits your yard best.
Table of Contents
Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher: Easy Comparison
I’ve used both of these dethatchers on my ¼-acre lawn for a few seasons. They both work well, but they feel very different. Each one has its strengths, depending on your lawn.
Cutting Width: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Cutting width may seem small, but it matters. Greenworks cuts 14 inches wide. Sun Joe cuts 13 inches. One inch may not sound big, but over time, it helps. On large lawns, Greenworks saves time.
| Feature | Greenworks 14″ | Sun Joe 13″ |
| Cutting Width | 14 inches | 13 inches |
| Ideal Lawn Size | Medium–Large | Small–Medium |
| Passes Needed | Fewer | A bit more |
On wide areas, Greenworks was faster. But in small spaces or near fences, Sun Joe was easier to turn.
Rating
Greenworks: 9/10
Sun Joe: 8/10
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Cutting Height Adjustment: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
You want the right depth when dethatching. Too deep, and you hurt the grass. Sun Joe gives you five height settings. Greenworks gives you three.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Height Settings | 3 | 5 |
| How to Adjust | Manual knob | Easy lever |
| Depth Range | -0.4” to 0.4” | -0.4” to 0.4” |
Sun Joe was quick to adjust. But Greenworks held its setting better on bumpy ground.
Rating
Greenworks: 8/10
Sun Joe: 9/10
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Motor Power: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Motor strength matters for thick thatch. Sun Joe has a 12-amp motor. Greenworks has 10 amps. More amps mean more power.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Motor Power | 10 Amp | 12 Amp |
| Type | Electric | Electric |
| Handles Thatch | Medium | Strong |
Sun Joe powered through tough spots. Greenworks was smoother on lighter areas.
Rating
Greenworks: 8/10
Sun Joe: 9/10
Maneuverability: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Turning and pushing are key. Greenworks is lighter. Sun Joe has big back wheels for better balance.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Weight | ~25 lbs | ~27 lbs |
| Wheel Size | Medium | Large (rear) |
| Turning Ease | Good | Great |
On hills, Greenworks felt easier to push. On flat spots, Sun Joe turned better.
Rating
Greenworks: 8.5/10
Sun Joe: 9/10
Grass Disposal: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Sun Joe comes with a small bag. Greenworks does not. You’ll need to rake up the grass yourself.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Bag Included | No | Yes (Small) |
| Mulching Option | No | No |
| Cleanup Needed | Yes | Less Needed |
Sun Joe helped with cleanup, but the bag filled fast. Greenworks left a neater finish.
Rating
Greenworks: 7/10
Sun Joe: 8.5/10
Noise Level: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Both are quieter than gas tools, but not silent. Greenworks has a lower hum. Sun Joe is louder.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Noise Level (dB) | ~90 dB | ~92 dB |
| Ear Protection | Suggested | Suggested |
| Sound Feel | Softer | Louder |
I used earplugs with both. Greenworks was easier on the ears.
Rating
Greenworks: 8/10
Sun Joe: 7.5/10
Ease of Use: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Sun Joe is quick to set up and has simple levers. Greenworks takes more time but feels sturdy.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Setup Time | ~15 mins | ~10 mins |
| Controls | Basic | Easy Lever |
| Handle Folds | Yes | Yes |
Sun Joe was easy from the start. Greenworks needed more setup but felt strong.
Rating
Greenworks: 8.5/10
Sun Joe: 9/10
Value for Money: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Both are affordable. Sun Joe includes more. Greenworks feels tougher and has a longer warranty.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Price (avg.) | ~$140 | ~$130 |
| What’s Included | Tines only | Tines + Bag |
| Warranty | 4 Years | 2 Years |
Greenworks is built to last. Sun Joe is packed with features for less money.
Rating
Greenworks: 9/10
Sun Joe: 9/10
Final Thoughts: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Both are great tools. Greenworks is strong and solid. Sun Joe is full of features and easy to use.
| Feature | Greenworks | Sun Joe |
| Best For | Long-term use | Easy setup |
| Weak Point | No bag | Shorter warranty |
| Best Feature | Strong build | Height settings |
Want something tough and lasting? Go with Greenworks. Want something fast and easy? Sun Joe is a smart pick.
Overall Rating
Greenworks: 8.8/10
Sun Joe: 8.9/10
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When and Why I Dethatch My Lawn
I usually dethatch in early spring—right when the grass starts to grow. Sometimes, I do it again in early fall if the lawn feels soft or looks slow to green up.
Dethatching helps the grass breathe. It clears out old, dead grass and roots. After I dethatch, I always see more green and thicker growth in a couple of weeks.
Here in the U.S., renting machines can be loud, heavy, and pricey. And if you only need them once or twice a year, it doesn’t feel worth it. That’s why owning my own dethatcher has made a big difference. Both the Greenworks and Sun Joe saved me trips to the store. I can use them anytime I want.
Pros and Cons: In My Own Words
Greenworks is my pick when I want a solid tool that just works. It feels strong and runs well every time. It fits in my shed and starts up fast. I do wish it came with a bag to catch the debris, though. After a big job, raking takes extra time.
Sun Joe is great when I want quick setup and easy changes to the settings. The bag is small, but it helps with cleanup. Just note—it feels more like plastic. I’ve also had to swap out a tine or two after heavy use.
Read More: Best Lawn Mower for Bermuda Grass
Tips for Better Results
- Mow first. Short grass helps the blades reach the thatch.
- Wait for dry soil. Wet ground can tear instead of lift. I learned this the hard way.
- Start shallow. Use the lowest setting first. You can go deeper later.
- Try overseeding. After dethatching, adding grass seed really helps it grow thick.
Final Thoughts: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Both tools work well, but for different reasons.
Greenworks feels strong and lasts longer. I use it for big jobs and rough patches.
Sun Joe is fast to set up, easy to use, and great when I want to clean up quickly.
Think about how big your yard is, how often you’ll dethatch, and if cleanup help matters.
If you want a solid, long-term tool—go with Greenworks.
If you want speed, ease, and value—Sun Joe is a smart pick.
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FAQs: Greenworks vs Sun Joe Dethatcher
Which dethatcher is better for small lawns?
Sun Joe is great for small lawns. Its 13-inch deck and collection bag make quick jobs easy and cleanup faster.
Does Greenworks dethatcher come with a collection bag?
No, the Greenworks dethatcher doesn’t include a bag. You’ll need to rake up the thatch after using it.
Which dethatcher has more power—Greenworks or Sun Joe?
Sun Joe has a stronger 12-amp motor, which helps on thick or matted grass. Greenworks uses a 10-amp motor that runs smooth and quiet.
Is Sun Joe easier to adjust than Greenworks?
Yes, Sun Joe has five depth settings with a quick lever. Greenworks uses a manual knob and has three positions.
Which dethatcher lasts longer?
Greenworks feels sturdier and comes with a longer 4-year warranty. Sun Joe offers 2 years and may need part replacements over time.
