We are reader supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

Sun Joe vs Ryobi Pressure Washer (2021): Which Brand Should You Go With?

Sun Joe and Ryobi pressure washers are some of the best that you can buy if you are looking to get the best value for your money. Many of their more affordable models offer excellent performance that can rival some of the more expensive brands’ offerings. The Sun Joe SPX3000 and the Ryobi RY141900 are two pressure washers that fit that description and we compare the two to find out which one is the better deal.

Sun Joe vs Ryobi Pressure Washer Comparison Chart

ModelSun Joe SPX3000Ryobi RY141900
 Amazon productAmazon product
PriceAmazon productAmazon product
PowerElectric
14.5 amp
Electric
13 amp
FramePlasticSteel
Pressure2030 PSI2000 PSI
GPM1.761.2
Cleaning Units3572.82400
Soap DilutionNoAutomatic
Hose Length20 ft.25 ft.
Cord Length35 ft.35 ft.
Nozzles0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, Soap15°, Soap, Turbo
Trigger LockYesYes
Dimensions15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 in16.5 x 19.2 x 34 in
Weight23.4 lbs32 lbs

Design

When it comes to storage, the Sun Joe SPX3000 will take up less space than the Ryobi RY141900.

sun joe vs ryobi pressure washer design
The Sun Joe SPX3000 (left) is made with mostly plastic while the Ryobi RY141900 (right) has more steel parts.

When you look at these two, the first thing that you’ll notice is that the Ryobi RY141900 has more steel parts than the mostly plastic build of the Sun Joe SPX3000. With its steel frame, the Ryobi RY141900 certainly has the upper hand when it comes to durability and longevity. However, this does not mean that the Sun Joe SPX3000 is a fragile machine. It is still a solid pressure washer even if it is made from mostly plastic.

One positive thing about the Sun Joe SPX3000 having more plastic parts is that it is lightweight. Weighing only 23.4 lbs., it is lighter than the Ryobi RY141900, which weighs 32 lbs. Since it is more lightweight, it is easier to maneuver and carry around.

Measured at 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 inches, it is about the same height and width as the Ryobi RY141900, which has a physical dimensions of 16.5 x 19.2 x 34 inches. However, they differ when it comes to depth. The Sun Joe SPX3000, in addition to being lighter, is overall smaller than the Ryobi RY141900.

Both pressure washers come with onboard storage for their accessories. Everything is within reach so that you’ll be prepared for any type of cleaning job.

Features and Accessories

You’ll get more nozzles with the Sun Joe SPX3000, while the Ryobi RY141900 offers an automatic soap dilution feature.

sun joe vs ryobi pressure washer features
Both the Sun Joe SPX3000 and Ryobi RY141900 will work on different surfaces.

Included with the Sun Joe SPX3000 are five nozzles—0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and soap. In contrast, the Ryobi RY141900 only comes with three nozzles—15°, soap and turbo. With extra nozzles on hand, the Sun Joe SPX3000 is more versatile than the Ryobi RY141900.

Both pressure washers come with removable tanks for detergent solutions. On the Ryobi RY141900 is a 1 gallon tank and on the Sun Joe SPX3000 are two 0.24 gallon tanks. You can use two different detergents with the Sun Joe SPX300, however, it does not have an automatic soap dilution system, so you’ll have to manually dilute your detergent solution beforehand. On the other hand, you can only use one type of detergent with the Ryobi RY141900, but it comes with an automatic soap dilution system so you don’t have to do any manual dilution of your soap.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Ryobi Ry141900 has a 25 ft. pressure hose while the Sun Joe SPX3000 comes with a 20 ft. hose.

Performance

The Sun Joe SPX3000 has a more powerful motor than the Ryobi RY141900.

sun joe vs ryobi pressure washer performance
The Sun Joe SPX3000 (left) delivers a pressure of 2030 PSI while the Ryobi RY141900 (right) can pump out 2000 PSI.

With its 14.5 amp motor, the Sun Joe SPX3000 delivers a pressure of 2030 PSI with a 1.76 GPM flow. It has a total of 3572.8CU or cleaning units. Meanwhile, the Ryobi RY141900 comes with a 13 amp motor which is capable of a 2000PSI and 1.2GPM for a total of 2400CU. Since the Sun Joe SPX3000 has a more powerful motor, higher PSI and GPM, it is capable of rinsing and stripping more effectively.

In addition to having a higher CU, the Sun Joe SPX3000 also comes with more nozzles, as mentioned above. Its 25° and 40° nozzles are more suited for cleaning surfaces that need a more gentle pressure, such as your car or furniture. When it comes to overall performance, the Sun Joe SPX3000 delivers better results and offers more flexibility.

Safety

Both the Ryobi RY141900 and Sun Joe SPX3000 have trigger locks for safety.

sun joe vs ryobi pressure washer safety
Included accessories with the Sun Joe SPX3000 (left) and Ryobi RY141900 (right).

When using pressure washers, safety is important since you can seriously injure yourself or others in the vicinity if there are no proper safety mechanisms in place. That said, both pressure washers do come with their safety features.

Both pressure washers come with a trigger lock so that accidental operation is prevented. In the case of the Sun Joe SPX3000, they also have a Total Stop System, where the pressure washer will automatically shut off when the trigger is not engaged.

Verdict

With a lower price, a more powerful motor and more accessories included, the Sun Joe SPX3000 simply outclasses the Ryobi RY141900.

Amazon product

The Sun Joe SPX3000 is simply the better electric pressure washer in this comparison since it is more affordable, powerful and efficient than the Ryobi RY141900. It also comes with more accessories, so it is better equipped to handle varied cleaning jobs. If you’re considering these two electric pressure washers, you won’t be disappointed with the Sun Joe SPX3000.

FAQs

📌 Are Sun Joe pressure washers any good?

Yes, they offer a nice combination of affordability and power.

📌 How much PSI is needed to clean concrete?

To effectively clean concrete, you’ll need at least a 3000 PSI pressure washer.

📌 Is 2000 PSI safe for washing cars?

Yes, a 2000 PSI pressure washer is safe to use for cleaning cars.

📌 Do you need special soap for pressure washers?

Yes, you’ll need to use soap that is specifically for pressure washer uses. You can still use regular detergent, but it won’t be as effective.

RELATED  Predator Generator 9000 vs 8750 (2021): Which Portable Generator Should You Buy?
Carlo Salvador

Senior Editor at Compare Before Buying. Writer and researcher passionate about fitness, gaming and music.