Best value spreader recommendations

I’m in the market for a new spreader because the Scott’s EdgeGuard just isn’t working for me. The challenge I’m facing is that I only use about 18 lbs. of fertilizer per session, applying around 3 lbs. per 1,000 ft² at a time to ensure even distribution.

Has anyone tried the Skyshalo spreader from Home Depot? It seems to be the right size for my needs. I know the Echo spreader is higher quality, but it’s larger than I need and costs nearly $100 more. For reference, my yard is about 6,000 ft². Any advice or recommendations?


I really like my Echo. It doesn’t break after the first use like those cheap ones.

Parker said:
I really like my Echo. It doesn’t break after the first use like those cheap ones.

I like mine too, but I feel like the agitator is set too high and I have to bounce the spreader to get the granules out.

I have the RB60, and I think it’s a good value. It’s not the best, but for the price it gets the job done. I added twist ties to the impellers to pick up most of the leftover granules, and it hasn’t had any major issues.

I have the same Echo model. No problems at all, definitely recommend it.

I was thinking the same thing.

I just got an RB60 this past week. I haven’t used it yet, but it looks well-made and solid.

Reese said:
I just got an RB60 this past week. I haven’t used it yet, but it looks well-made and solid.

I’ve used mine a lot. It’s great.

Yan said:

Reese said:
I just got an RB60 this past week. I haven’t used it yet, but it looks well-made and solid.

I’ve used mine a lot. It’s great.

Did you change the auger at all? I see some complaints about the original one.

@Reese
No, I haven’t.

Home Depot has an Echo spreader that’s reasonably priced and I am quite happy with mine. I got the suggestion here.

For better performance, I suggest the RB60 or the Scott’s elite. If you have a small yard, a Scott’s wiz handheld spreader works well. I use both the RB60 and the wiz for my 11,200 sqft yard. They work great for different tasks.

I bought a Groundskeeper brand spreader on Amazon, and I’ve been happy with it.

The first spreader shown might have the same issue as the Scott’s spreaders with leaving stripes because the wheels are hollow.

Riley said:
The first spreader shown might have the same issue as the Scott’s spreaders with leaving stripes because the wheels are hollow.

How do hollow wheels cause stripes?

Fin said:

Riley said:
The first spreader shown might have the same issue as the Scott’s spreaders with leaving stripes because the wheels are hollow.

How do hollow wheels cause stripes?

Some say they can catch product, leading to uneven spreading or causing it to fall out in a line once it catches enough. I remember someone posted a link that disagreed with that explanation, but it was a while back.

I use a Ryobi handheld spreader. It’s great and takes up minimal space.

Hollis said:
I use a Ryobi handheld spreader. It’s great and takes up minimal space.

Yeah, either that or a chest spreader works well. There’s no need for a residential homeowner to get anything else since you’ll just end up with something worse.

I recommend getting the Echo.

They say buying quality means buying once. The RB60 is a great low-budget option that will last for years. The other one will probably break if you hit a tree stump or drop it while unpacking.