Greenworks vs Sun Joe Pressure Washer: Which One Should You Buy? (Real-World Comparison)

Start Here: What You’re Really Comparing

You’re not comparing “one Greenworks” to “one Sun Joe.” You’re comparing product lines: entry-level electrics, midrange electrics, higher-end electrics, and (in Greenworks’ case) often battery-based tools in the same ecosystem. The key is to pick the right class of machine for your workload.

A simple rule that saves money: Buy the smallest washer that comfortably handles your hardest job. If your “hardest job” is car washing and patio furniture, you don’t need the most powerful unit on the shelf. If your hardest job is algae-stained concrete, you’ll want more flow and better duty capability.

PSI vs GPM: Why Flow Usually Matters More

Most people fixate on PSI (pressure), but GPM (flow) is what controls how fast you rinse and how quickly you move dirt. Think of it like this:

• PSI = how hard the water hits
• GPM = how much water is doing the work
• Cleaning power (roughly) = PSI × GPM (often called “cleaning units”)

Higher PSI can help with stuck-on grime, but higher flow often makes cleaning feel easier because it moves dirt off the surface faster. If you’ve ever watched someone “detail” a driveway slowly with a narrow fan tip, that’s usually a flow limitation problem.

“Max PSI” vs “Certified Rated” PSI: Don’t Get Tricked by Labels

Here’s a big reason specs feel confusing: brands may advertise MAX PSI (a peak number under ideal conditions), while some models also list certified rated pressure/flow (measured to a standard). In real life, your nozzle choice, hose setup, water supply, and extension cord voltage drop can change what you actually get at the tip.

Practical takeaway: Use the rated PSI/GPM as your baseline and treat “max” numbers as marketing. If a machine is “2030 PSI rated” and “1.2 GPM rated,” that tells you more about real performance than a big “3000 MAX PSI” label by itself.

Greenworks: Typical Strengths and Tradeoffs

Where Greenworks tends to shine

• Higher-end electric options in their “Pro” lineup (often aimed at heavier homeowner use)
• Warranty depth on certain Pro brushless AC pressure washer models (tool and motor coverage can be strong)
• Ecosystem benefits if you already own Greenworks tools/batteries (varies by product category)

Where you should be cautious

• Some models are powerful on paper but still limited by lower GPM at high pressure (common for electrics)
• Higher power can mean more demand on your electrical setup (outlet/circuit matters)
• Price climbs quickly in the Pro tier—worth it only if your workload needs it

Example of what “high-end electric” looks like in the Greenworks world: some Pro electric models advertise a high “max PSI” rating, but may list a lower GPM at that maximum pressure and higher GPM at low pressure. That’s not a scam—it's how many electric systems behave—but it matters for expectations.

Sun Joe: Typical Strengths and Tradeoffs

Where Sun Joe tends to shine

• Value: popular models often hit a sweet spot of performance and price
• Homeowner-friendly kits: multiple tips, detergent tanks, and simple “roll-out and wash” setup
• Good match for light-to-medium jobs like cars, patios, fences, and siding

Where you should be cautious

• Some designs lean more “consumer-grade”—fine for weekend use, less ideal for frequent heavy concrete cleaning
• Accessory plastics (detergent tanks, holders) can be the first thing to feel cheap if abused
• Like all electrics, performance depends heavily on water supply and power delivery

Sun Joe’s best-known models are often rated around the “mid electric” tier—enough to do most household cleaning well, as long as you use the right nozzle and don’t expect professional-rental performance.

Head-to-Head: What Actually Matters When You Own It

1) Motor type and duty feel

Many homeowner pressure washers use universal motors (lighter, louder), while some higher-end electrics use induction/brushless designs (often quieter and more “steady” under load). You don’t need to be an engineer here—just know that motor design influences how the washer feels: smoother start, less screaming noise, better tolerance for longer sessions, and sometimes better longevity.

2) Hose quality and fittings

Your “ownership happiness” is heavily affected by hose behavior. A stiff hose that kinks constantly can make a good machine feel annoying. Also, connectors matter (M22 vs quick-connect systems). If you hate leaks and constant re-tightening, choose a setup with easy-to-service fittings. If you already have professional quick-connect gear, consider which brand/model plays nicer with adapters.

If you end up with hose leaks, here’s the repair guide: Repair Pressure Washer Hose.

3) Nozzle set and spray control

A pressure washer is only as good as your nozzle choice. Most kits include a range of fan tips (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°) plus soap. The trick is using them correctly:

• 40° = safer for cars and delicate surfaces
• 25° = general-purpose cleaning
• 15° = stubborn grime on hard surfaces (careful on wood)
• 0° = high risk of damage; use only with experience
• Soap = detergent application (usually low pressure)

If your washer pulses or surges during spray, many times it’s a nozzle restriction or air/water supply issue—not a “bad brand.” Start here: Pressure Washer Pulsating.

4) Warranty and support reality

For homeowner tools, warranty is part of the “brand decision.” A longer warranty can matter if you plan to keep the washer for years, especially if you’re buying a higher-end electric model.

Bottom line: compare warranty terms for the specific model you’re buying (not the brand in general). Some Greenworks Pro brushless AC pressure washers list stronger coverage windows than typical value-tier units, while Sun Joe commonly positions its customer promise around a shorter residential coverage period.

Which One Should You Choose? (Match the Brand to Your Jobs)

Choose Sun Joe if…

• You want maximum value for common homeowner cleaning
• Your main tasks are cars, patio furniture, fences, siding, grills, small patios
• You prefer a popular “easy setup” model with plenty of included tips
• You’ll use it occasionally rather than weekly for heavy concrete

Choose Greenworks if…

• You’re willing to pay more for a higher-end electric option
• You expect more frequent use or tougher tasks (bigger patios, more concrete, heavier grime)
• You care about a stronger warranty on certain Pro models
• You already own Greenworks tools and like staying in the same ecosystem (where relevant)

Either brand is fine if you do these things right

• Use a proper outlet (avoid long, thin extension cords)
• Keep water supply strong and purge air before use
• Clean inlet screens and avoid running the pump dry
• Pick the right nozzle for the surface

Common Ownership Problems (And the Right Fix)

These problems show up across all brands. If you plan to own a pressure washer for years, bookmark these pages:

• Electric Pressure Washer Won’t Turn On (outlet, GFCI, extension cord, switch)
• Electric Pressure Washer Surging (cycling, voltage drop, restrictions)
• Shuts Off When Trigger Is Pulled (load-related shutdown)
• Leaking Water From Pump (seals, fittings, thermal valve)
• Repair Pressure Washer Hose (O-rings, quick-connect leaks, fitting problems)
• Pressure Washer Gun Repair (trigger leaks, swivel seals, sticking triggers)
• Pressure Washer Wand Repair (tip leaks, clogs, coupler wear)

Decision Cheat Sheet

• If you want “best bang for the buck” for typical homeowner cleaning: Sun Joe is often the shortlist.
• If you want a higher-end electric feel (and may pay more): Greenworks Pro models can be worth it.
• If your biggest frustration is speed on big flat areas: prioritize flow (GPM) and consider a surface cleaner attachment.
• If reliability matters most: focus on warranty terms and avoid pushing a small electric unit into weekly heavy concrete duty.

The smartest purchase is the one that matches your workload. Buying “too much” washer wastes money; buying “too little” washer creates frustration and early wear.

FAQ

Is Greenworks better than Sun Joe?

Neither brand is “always better.” Sun Joe often wins on value for typical homeowner cleaning, while Greenworks can shine in higher-end electric options and warranty depth on certain Pro models. The best choice depends on your toughest job and how often you’ll use it.

What matters more: PSI or GPM?

For most homeowners, GPM (flow) is the hidden performance factor because it determines how quickly you rinse and move dirt. PSI helps with stuck grime, but flow usually controls speed and “ease of cleaning.”

Why do two washers with similar PSI feel different?

Motor type, real flow, nozzle selection, hose restrictions, and power delivery (extension cord voltage drop) can all change what you feel at the tip. If performance is unstable, start with: Pressure Washer Pulsating.

Can an extension cord make my pressure washer weak?

Yes—especially with electric units. Voltage drop can cause cycling/surging, weak performance, or no-start issues. Use: Electric Pressure Washer Won’t Turn On if you’re seeing dead/no-start symptoms.