10 Best Rear Tine Tillers Under $1000 – An Ultimate Guide for 2022

All of us want to own a beautiful garden at one point in life. If you have a similar vision for your backyard but don’t know where to start, we’d suggest you either ask someone professional or get the right types of equipment that can make your life easier. Rear tine tillers are one of the best and easiest ways to dig up your soil without causing a ruckus. 

If you just bought a new place that could have a complete makeover with a proper backyard garden, we’d suggest you get the same done without any further thoughts. But, digging up age-old soil is where the problem rests.

One of the best reasons why tine tillers work is because of the easier mechanism of the work. They roll through the soil easily, providing a better grip and helps dig through the soil with ease. One thing that we’d suggest you do is get a better hand on grip with the equipment. If the product doesn’t come with superior quality, you must get a better option for yourself.

Having the right gears in your hand is what makes all the difference. The same pointing way towards the tine tillers as well. In case you have been missing out on the same, we’d suggest you take a look before proceeding with the purchase.

Here, we are going to bring you some of the best rear tine tillers under $1000 that will change the way you garden and plant your trees.

10 Best Rear Tine Tillers under $1000 in 2022

With the basic introduction out of the way, the next thing that we are going to discuss is the list of products. Several well-known brands provide the best quality garden tending products. In that, there are quite a few options when it comes to the rear tine tillers. For your ease of choosing, we have picked out some of the top-rated rear tine tillers that you will not regret buying.

1. Earthquake 20015 Versa Front Tine Tiller Cultivator

• Tine diameter – up to 21”
• Tire size – 11”
• Engine power – 99c

If you don’t need a heavy-duty tine tiller for your garden, the Earthquake 20015 Versa Front Tine Tiller Cultivator is likely the best option in the market. This has a very practical design that enables easier manoeuvrability for smoother functions. 

The best thing about this machine that makes this a worthy option is the versatile design. It enables tool-less removal of the outer tines and the shields that enables this machine to be used as a tine and also as a cultivator.

It is extremely lightweight, which means that moving this around the soil is not as tough as it seems to be. It also possesses very smooth control over the machine and the terrains, allowing smoother work without any hassle.

The stability of the machine also comes with the lowest centre of gravity that ensures better stability of the machine. It is also convenient and comes with a noise-free operation. This means that you wouldn’t have to worry about waking up your neighbours during your work.

The machine is gas-powered, so make sure you have a better idea of that and how it works. All the details about the same are mentioned in the user manual that comes with the product. Aside from that, the product is also backed by 5 years warranty.

2. Earthquake 31635 MC33 Mini Tiller Cultivator

• Tine diameter – 10”
• Tire size – 6”
• Engine power – 33cc

Before you click back thinking it’s not worth the time, we’d suggest you wait and take a look. The Earthquake 31635 MC33 Mini Tiller Cultivator is one of the best available options, especially if you are looking for a product for easier cultivation and tinning.

The best factor about this product is the versatility. Not only is it good for tilling the soil, but it also helps extract the excess weeds and also helps aerate the soil for easier and effective cultivation. It has onboard wheels that are not just adjustable but enables better depth control as well.

It has a separate overhand control on the machine that further helps prevent any risks of unmanaged movement and loss of control while you go over the soil. The Viper’s engine is likely one of the best in the lot, ensuring smoother functions.

Another factor about this machine that makes this a worthy purchase is the 5-years warranty. Not just that, the machine also comes with the best customer and after-sales series, allowing you to reach out to them in case of any quality issues.

3. Tazz 35310 2-in-1 Front Tine Tiller/Cultivator

• Tine diameter – up to 21”
• Tire size – 11”
• Engine power – 79cc

Another amazing tine tiller cum cultivator that has gained massive popularity over time is this one from Tazz. It has a very sleek design but is a little more expensive in comparison to all the other available options that you get around.

This comes in two variants, the multipurpose one being the better option. This comes with a fuel-efficient 79cc Viper engine, which works smoothly and at the same time, reduces the risks of damage to the soil or the plants around.

The smoother pull recoil design of the tiller is also pretty amazing, enabling you to work through any kind of soil condition without any hassle. It has a bronze gear transmission, that ensures enhanced durability without any issues.

Not only does this machine help get rid of the exterior tines, but it also turns into a cultivator with ease. It has a 21” tilling width, ensuring smoother functions and easier levelling of the garden. It helps you mulch and aerate the soil as well.

The lower centre of gravity in the tiller ensures better stability when you are using this machine. You can turn it around at any point without any concerns at all. It also comes with a lightweight design, which again is a reason why it is a good enough option.

The handlebar in the machine comes with adjustable height settings, enabling you to work through your needs. The tilling depth of the machine is adjustable up to 11”, which again is reason enough why you wouldn’t regret buying this at all.

The product is backed by 3 years warranty, which is a pretty good reason behind the purchase. Additionally, the machine also has a very prompt after-sales service, enabling you to contact them with quality issues.

4. Earthwise TC70065 6.5-Amp 11-Inch Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator

• Tine diameter – 11”
• Tire size – 11”
• Engine power – 6.5 amp power

If you are looking for a cheap tiller for your backyard, the Earthwise TC70065 6.5-Amp 11-Inch Corded Electric Tiller/Cultivator is the best option. It has a very lightweight and modern design that allows you to experience satisfactory results without complaints.

The best thing about this machine is the eco-friendly 6.5 amp power engine motor that enables better work. The motor is powered by electricity, so you wouldn’t have to worry about running out of gas halfway through your work.

It also doesn’t emit harmful fumes when functioning, making this a very favourable option for purchase. The rotating tiller enables you to dig through your soil and at the same time, it helps in getting rid of the weeds from the sides.

The cultivating width and depth of the machine are 11” and 8” respectively, depending on what your soil needs. If you have a very big backyard, we wouldn’t suggest you buy this because it will take a lot of time to get the work done.

The machine comes with a single-lever switch that runs on electricity without any complaints at all. The easy to use and start feature in the machine makes this an ideal option for your gas-powered tillers in the market.

The cultivator handle in the machine comes with a soft grip that prevents scratching and strain on the hand. Other than that, the machine has a very ergonomic design, enabling you to work with it without putting unnecessary strain on your back and hands.

5. WEN TC0714 7-Amp 14.2-Inch Electric Tiller and Cultivator

• Tine diameter – up to 14.2”
• Tire size – up to 5.5”
• Energy power – 7-amp motor

Yet another budget-friendly option that is worth the mention is the WEN TC0714 7-Amp 14.2-Inch Electric Tiller and Cultivator. This is another electric tiller that you wouldn’t regret spending your coins on.

It comes with a deeper digging design, enabling you to dig through 14.2” soil, based on what your preferences are. The 7 amp motor that runs on electricity is powerful enough to get your job done without any hassle at all.

It has four steel tines in the machine, combining a total of 16 different wheels that enabled smoother usage and easier digging of the soil without any hassle at all. It also features removable tyres for further ease of use and storage.

The overload protection of the machine is another reason why the purchase of this machine won’t come off as a waste of time and money. This feature stops the motor functioning immediately when it comes in contact with tough and rough terrain.

6. Earthquake 12802 MC440 Mini Cultivator

• Engine power – 40 cc
• Unique feature – Air filter design
• Warranty – 5 years

Next on the list is the Earthquake 12802 MC440 Mini Cultivator, which is not typically a tine tiller but does the job just fine. In case you don’t want to compromise on the quality of work, this machine gets the job done with ease.

The best thing about this machine that makes this a worthy purchase is the 40cc powerful engine that digs through rough and hard soil with ease. The four-cycle engine is yet another factor about this machine that ensures maximum productivity without any complaints. 

The functions are pretty simple too, enabling you to work from behind the handlebars without any complaints at all. It has an ergonomic design, which ensures that you wouldn’t have to bend down to get the job done.

The superior quality material of the product is another factor that makes this a worthy pick. It prevents the engine-damaging dirt that often collects outside the engine. It comes with the accessories that you need to maintain the quality of the product as well.

7. Southland SCV43 Cultivator

• Tine diameter – 8”
• Tire size – 7”
• Engine power – 43 cc

Last on the list is the Southland SCV43 Cultivator, which comes with a standard design and efficient functions and performance. If you don’t want to compromise on the way you cultivate your land, this takes care of every last detail involved.

The machine comes with a manual recoil that ensures easier starting of the machine without any glitches. It also comes with a pro-quality full crankshift design that is easy to walk around with. It also works on the rougher soil without any complications.

The 8” tine diameter with the 7” rear tyre enables easy movement throughout the backyard without imposing any further risks and hassles. It has a direct gear with a solid steel drive shaft, giving the machine a lot more durability and stability.

The best feature of this machine that makes it a worthy investment is likely the design. It can be dismantled into 3 different parts for ease of storage. In case you don’t want to struggle with the storage-related hassles, we’d suggest you do this.

Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Now that we have sorted you with the best rear tine tillers reviews, the next thing we need to focus on is the buying guide. This gives you a better understanding of the facts that need checking, especially when we are discussing things in terms of quality and ease of use.

For your convenience, we have sorted through the most important factors that you need to keep a check on.

1. Gas or Electric

This is hands down the first factor you need to consider. Do you need a gas-powered or an electricity-powered option? If you are dealing with a very bad and rough soil condition, we’d suggest you opt for the gas-powered one. But, in case you want to dig through a small patch of soil with a levelled appearance, the electric ones work just as fine.

The electric ones are a lot more eco-friendly and lightweight. If you don’t want to move around a heavy machine, this is your safest bet. They also don’t require a lot of maintenance, which is a bonus. So, at the end of the day, you need a product that is easy to handle and doesn’t include a lot of manpower.

2. Width and Depth

The next factor that you need to keep a check on is the width and depth of the machine. This is equally important because the ones with the higher tilling width get the work done a lot more efficiently. If you are getting one, we’d suggest you get somewhere between 15-18 inches because that is what works best.

The majority of the tillers available now come with an adjustable rear tilling depth and width, allowing you to change it around depending on what kind of garden you are dealing with. Depending on what kind of seed you are planning on sowing, the depth needs to be just as much.

3. Rotation style

Another factor that needs equal attention is the rotation style. Does it move in the forward or the reverse direction? This is one factor that you can’t miss out on, so make sure that you do keep a check on the same.

If you are going to use this for more purposes and move around in different directions, we’d suggest getting the product that supports multidirectional movement and rotation.

4. Weight

This is a very underrated checkpoint that many tend to skip out on. If your machine is extremely heavy-weight, it will end up causing problems especially when you are turning around. Try and get the lighter options that are easy to move around and won’t put a strain on your arms. 

If your machine weighs more than 250 pounds, you will have a very hard time managing your work with it.

5. Tires

Not many people pay attention to this but the tires of the tine tiller play an important role as well. Since you are moving the machine through a rough patch of soil, having a good set of tires is important for easier and smoother movement.

Depending on the kind of soil you are working with, you need to but the machine with low duty and heavy-duty tires. We’d suggest getting the heavy-duty ones, especially if you work professionally.

6. Ease of use

Another factor that needs to be focused on is ease of use. If your machine is complicated and doesn’t come with easier instructions, it will be a hassle to work with it. Easier functions and switch and lever options is a must whenever you are buying a tine tiller for your soil.

7. Handlebars

If you are getting a tine tiller, keeping a check on the quality of the handlebar is extremely important. Two factors to keep in mind including adjustability and the ergonomic design. Get one that has an ergonomic design. Avoid getting ones with a fixed handlebar, because those create an issue for you in the long run.

8. Pricing

Last but not least in the list of factors is the price of the tine tiller. At the end of the day, you want the best rear tine tiller for the money, so ensure that you look through the price of the product before anything else. You want good quality and affordable pricing. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which one is better – front or real tine tiller?

To be fair, answering this can be a bit complicated because both of the machines perform the same functions. The rear ones are considered a better option because of their practical design. It has the wheels and tines on the back and the engine on the front, ensuring better safety and ease of work.

2. How deep does a tine tiller dig?

There is no standard answer to this. Depending on what the tine width and depth is, the tiller digs the soil accordingly. We’d suggest you get the one depending on how much of the soil you need to dig up. If you want more, get the ones that will run deeper into the soil and vice versa.

3. Is it necessary to remove the grass before tilling?

If you have never used a tine tiller before, this is one of those important questions that will, for sure, intrigue you. And to answer you, no, you don’t need to remove the grass. If you want a smoother operation, we’d suggest you get rid of the larger rocks and the unnecessary waste like food wrappers and plastic.

4. Does tilling make the soil go bad?

If there is one myth about tilling that everyone likes to give into, it is this one. Tilling is not at all bad for the soil and is the complete opposite. In case you want to plant more trees, tilling enables better growth without any hassle.

5. Is there a difference between a tiller and cultivator?

There is a difference but most of the tine tillers are versatile, enabling you to use it as a cultivator as well. The tiller mainly helps in breaking down the soil and making it ready for planting seeds and trees. The cultivator, on the other hand, promotes aeration in the soil.

6. Are Troy Bilt tillers worth the expense?

Although there are a few brands that will take away a lot of your money for tine tillers, Troy Bilt is a leading brand whose majority of the products are priced above $1000. When it comes to justifying the price point, you can’t go wrong with it. The brand is reliable and each product lasts for years, making them worth every penny you spend.

7. Will the rear tine tiller break up clay soil?

Although most of the cultivators are designed to dig deep enough, you will find that the tillers are a lot more efficient. However, make sure that you avoid tilling when the soil is wet because that will end up clogging the tiller and reduce its efficiency.

8. Which kinds of tillers are ideal for clay soil?

The rear-tine tillers are considered the best for clay soil, primarily because of the sharp edge and blades. They can dig deeper into the heavily compacted soil, digging in deeper for better plantation later.

9. Can I use a rear tine tiller to level my yard?

Yes, not just for digging, tillers are also amazing for levelling out your soil in the backyard. So, if you are preparing your soil for future plantation, tillers are a one-stop solution for all your work around the yard.

10. Why did Husqvarna discontinue manufacturing tillers?

Besides the high price point and lacking sales, Husqvarna also discontinued the tillers due to the enhanced risk of bodily injuries and lacerations that many users complained about while using their products.

11. What is a rear tine tiller?

A rear tine tiller is a machine that is used for breaking up the soil before you start with the planting process. Tine tillers are smaller machines which allow you to break up the soil in your garden in preparation to start planting small plants or herbs. You can also use them to prepare a lawn before you start planting new grass seeds. A rear tine tiller is the opposite of a front tine tiller. This means that it features wheels that are driven by the engine, and the tines on this tiller are not dependent upon the wheels to work. Sometimes they also have tines that rotate counter-clockwise, and against the direction in which the wheels are moving. This makes it easier for users to break through ground that is rather hard in texture.

12. What are some things I need to look for before I decide which rear tine tiller to buy?

Before you decide which rear tine tiller you are going to buy, you need to go through a number of things – firstly, whether it is a gas-driven tine tiller or an electric tine tiller. Electric ones usually are used for softer soil and for smaller areas where the soil is rather level. However, if you know you’re going to go through an area that is rather hard, you should go with the gas ones. Other than that, you need to consider the rotation style of the tiller too. Also make sure your tires are rough enough to move through uneven land, if need be. However, the biggest decision you’ve got to make is choosing between a gas vs electric tiller.

13. How much does a rear tine tiller usually cost?

Rear tine tillers come in a whole range of price points – you can get some at as low as $200 while there are others which cost you north of $1000. However, if you don’t need something that is either too powerful, or something that is too flashy, you can get basic rear tine tillers for about $250 to $550 very easily. Almost all the products in our list above fall in that price range. When it comes to planting and gardening activity in smaller gardens or backyards, you can easily get things done with a cheaper machine. However, when it comes to commercial-grade farming across larger areas, that is when you might have to shell out a larger sum. 

14. Where to buy the best rear tine tillers?

Rear tine tillers aren’t really the most common item out there, but you can still get hold of a couple of models out there in larger gardening stores. Even in the stores where you can find them, you can’t really get hold of a large variety, and all you see is just a few models. In case you are looking for something very specific – and at a particular price point, you might want to consider browsing through platforms such as Amazon where you get to see a vast range of products, as well as get better deals and discounts compared to regular gardening stores. 

15. Can I use a rear tine tiller to remove weed?

Generally speaking, we do not recommend that you make use of a garden tiller to remove weeds. The problem is, using a tiller can help dig the seeds deeper, causing the weeds to be removed initially, but to make a faster comeback. However, you might want to use a tiller to break open the soil and expose the weed, post which you can manually remove the weed after using weed killers to eliminate them. If you’re using a tiller to remove weed, you might end up breaking down the weed itself and causing its seeds to scatter – causing a stronger comeback in the short run. This is something you’ve got to be careful about.

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Conclusion

We hope this answers all your queries concerning what is the best rear tine tiller to buy. Always check the buying guide and every feature of the product mentioned. This is extremely important, especially if you don’t want to compromise on the quality of the product in the long run. At the end of the day, you want value for money and we hope every product that we have mentioned suffices your need accordingly.