Best Electric and Battery-Powered Pressure Washers of 2025

Power: We assess how much pressure each model can produce in pounds per square inch (psi). Those with a higher psi earn a higher score. We then time how long it takes for each pressure washer to strip paint from painted plastic panels. Models with a higher pressure output tend to perform better on this test.

Noise: Even though electric and cordless pressure washers tend to be quieter than gas-powered washers, using them still requires hearing protection, such as earplugs or an earmuff-style headset. So we measure noise for those models, too.

Cleaning: We evaluate how well a pressure washer can clean a variety of surfaces. Better performers have multiple spray patterns that can cover various cleaning chores, from light cleaning to deep cleaning of concrete and other hard-to-clean surfaces.

Ease of use: This reflects how easy the machine is to use, assessing factors including maneuvering and cord storage, and how easy it is to swap out the nozzle.

If you’re unsure what type of pressure washer is right for you, our pressure washer buying guide provides more details about how these different types of pressure washers differ in terms of features and capabilities. It also explains when you might be better off renting a pressure washer instead of buying one. CR members can explore our full pressure washer ratings to see how various models in all categories compare, according to CR’s exhaustive tests.