Ego 880 CFM Blower Review: Powerful, Efficient, and Worth the Upgrade?

This review dives deep into the Ego LB88032 880 CFM blower, examining its features, performance, and overall value. We unpack the kit's contents, including the blower itself, dual batteries, charger, and nozzles, assessing the quality and design of each component. A key focus is comparing the 880's performance against its predecessor, the Ego 650 CFM blower, highlighting differences in airflow, runtime, and overall user experience. We'll explore the benefits of the 880's brushless motor, digital display, and ergonomic design, weighing these advantages against any potential drawbacks.Beyond performance metrics, this review also considers practical aspects like noise levels, comfort during extended use, and the compatibility of the blower with other Ego 56-volt batteries. We’ll evaluate the included accessories, such as the shoulder strap and optional short nozzle, and discuss their impact on usability and versatility. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether the Ego 880 CFM blower justifies its price point as a worthwhile upgrade for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Pros And Cons

Ego LB88032 Blower (880 CFM)
  • 5-year warranty on the unit, 3-year warranty on the battery
  • Up to 880 CFM, up to 200 mph wind speed
  • Digital display with cruise control option and battery indicator
  • Up to 90-minute runtime with two 4 amp batteries
  • Carbon fiber body construction for durability and lightweight
  • Secondary grip zone on both sides
  • Brushless motor for durability and battery saving
  • IPX4 weather-resistant construction
  • Compatible with all Ego 56-volt batteries
  • Wider base for more stability compared to older models
  • Shorter unit length than older models, saving space
  • Improved battery release mechanism with heavy-duty spring
  • Spring-loaded adapter to prevent contact with terminals
  • Improved handle design with more ridges for better grip
  • Battery life on high setting is 11 minutes 54 seconds with a 4 amp battery
  • Battery life on turbo setting is 10 minutes 50 seconds with a 4 amp battery
  • Battery life on low setting is 47 minutes 21 seconds with a 4 amp battery (shorter than advertised)
  • Electronic controls limit to two bars on a fully charged 2.5 amp battery, no turbo option available
  • The shoulder strap pad slips slightly due to lack of rubber on the bottom

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Unboxing and Kit Contents

The Ego LB88032 blower kit arrived, and I was eager to see what it contained. The packaging was straightforward, revealing the blower itself, along with two 4Ah batteries, a 320W charger (a definite upgrade from the basic models), a taper nozzle, a spread nozzle, and a comfortable shoulder strap. Everything seemed well-protected and organized. The high-quality components immediately impressed me.

Unboxing the Ego 880 CFM blower kit
Unboxing the Ego 880 CFM blower kit
Close-up of the kit contents: nozzles, shoulder strap, batteries, and manual.
Close-up of the kit contents: nozzles, shoulder strap, batteries, and manual.

Blower Design and Features

The Ego 880 CFM blower boasts a sleek, lightweight design thanks to its carbon fiber body. The digital display is a standout feature, offering clear visibility of battery life, speed settings, and cruise control. The improved spring-loaded battery adapter prevents any accidental contact with terminals, adding to the overall user-friendly experience. The dual secondary grips on either side enhance maneuverability and comfort during prolonged use.

The Ego 880 CFM blower
The Ego 880 CFM blower

Beyond the display and grips, the 880 features a brushless motor for extended battery life and durability, making it a robust investment for the long haul. Its IPX4 weather resistance rating adds peace of mind, ensuring the blower can withstand unexpected weather conditions. The blower's compatibility with all Ego 56-volt batteries is another major benefit.

Close up of the digital display and new spring-loaded battery adapter
Close up of the digital display and new spring-loaded battery adapter

Performance and Runtime Comparison

I compared the Ego 880 to my existing Ego 650 CFM blower. One noticeable difference was the 880's wider base, providing superior stability. The 880 is also slightly shorter. I tested both the 880 and the 650 on low and high settings to evaluate their runtime and performance on a full battery charge.

Weight comparison of the 880 with battery and nozzle
Weight comparison of the 880 with battery and nozzle

The 880 significantly outperformed the 650 on both low and high settings, with noticeably improved airflow. However, this increased power comes at the cost of shorter runtime. The 880's battery life on high settings is significantly shorter than the 650's.

Comparing the base width of the 880 and 650 blower models
Comparing the base width of the 880 and 650 blower models

Accessories and Additional Features

Ego offers a short nozzle accessory (part number A-ST2000) ideal for car washing and detailing. It's a significant upgrade from third-party short nozzles, providing a snug, secure fit. The rubberized tip protects vehicle surfaces from scratches.

Close-up of the short nozzle design and features.
Close-up of the short nozzle design and features.

The included shoulder strap significantly improves comfort during extended use, especially when working overhead. The blower's weight distribution and ergonomics are well-designed, reducing strain.

Noise Level and Overall Assessment

I measured the noise levels of the 880 on both high and turbo settings using a decibel meter. The high setting registered approximately 95.5 dB, while the turbo setting measured around 99 dB. These readings are consistent with other high-powered blowers.

Measuring noise level with decibel meter on high power
Measuring noise level with decibel meter on high power

The Ego 880 CFM blower is a powerful and efficient tool. Its lightweight design and innovative features make it a pleasure to use. While the battery life is shorter on high and turbo settings compared to its predecessor, the enhanced power and performance make it a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking superior blowing capabilities. The additional accessories also add value to the overall package.