When shopping for a gas pressure washer, the two names you’ll see most often are Briggs & Stratton and Honda. Both brands are trusted in outdoor power equipment, but they cater to slightly different users. Briggs & Stratton offers affordability and accessibility, while Honda has a reputation for unmatched engine reliability. So, which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll compare Briggs & Stratton vs Honda pressure washers across key factors, review top models from each brand, and help you make the best choice for your cleaning needs.
Quick Comparison
- Best Overall: Honda GX390 Powered NorthStar Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 3.5 GPM – Pro-grade reliability and performance.
- Best Budget: Briggs & Stratton S2000 Electric Pressure Washer – 2000 PSI, 1.2 GPM – Affordable and compact for light cleaning.
- Best Premium: Simpson PowerShot PS60843 Honda GX390 – 4400 PSI, 4.0 GPM – Heavy-duty contractor-grade washer.
Buyer’s Guide – Briggs & Stratton vs Honda
Here’s how the two brands stack up:
- Engine Reliability: Honda GX engines are legendary for durability and smooth starts. Briggs & Stratton engines are solid but geared more toward light to mid-duty use.
- Price Range: Briggs washers are generally more affordable. Honda-powered units cost more but last longer.
- Pump Quality: Many Honda-powered washers pair with CAT or AAA triplex pumps. Briggs washers often use axial cam pumps, which are lower-cost and shorter-lived.
- Maintenance: Both require regular oil checks, but Honda engines typically need fewer repairs over time.
- Best For: Briggs & Stratton is great for homeowners on a budget. Honda is the choice for professionals and serious power users.
Best Briggs & Stratton Pressure Washers
1. Briggs & Stratton S2000 Electric Pressure Washer – 2000 PSI, 1.2 GPM
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want a lightweight washer for cars, furniture, and small patios.
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Compact and easy to store
- Quiet electric motor
- Cons:
- Not as durable as gas models
- Limited power for large driveways
Verdict: A budget-friendly choice for light-duty cleaning. Check Price Here
2. Briggs & Stratton 20680 Electric Pressure Washer – 1800 PSI, 1.1 GPM
Who it’s for: Apartment or condo dwellers who need compact cleaning power.
- Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Onboard detergent tank
- Affordable
- Cons:
- Lower PSI than gas washers
- Not built for heavy-duty use
Verdict: A good entry-level washer for small cleaning jobs. Check Price Here
3. Briggs & Stratton Elite 3300 Gas Pressure Washer – 3300 PSI, 2.5 GPM
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want more power for siding, driveways, and decks.
- Pros:
- Gas-powered strength
- Reliable Briggs engine
- Great for medium to large jobs
- Cons:
- Axial pump limits long-term durability
Verdict: A solid upgrade from smaller electrics, but not quite pro-grade. Check Price Here
Best Honda-Powered Pressure Washers
1. NorthStar Gas Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 3.5 GPM (Honda GX390)
Who it’s for: Contractors and pros who need reliability every day.
- Pros:
- Honda GX390 engine (pro-grade)
- CAT triplex pump
- Consistent pressure output
- Cons:
- Heavy and expensive
Verdict: One of the best professional-grade washers available. Check Price Here
2. Simpson PowerShot PS60843 – 4400 PSI, 4.0 GPM (Honda GX390)
Who it’s for: Professionals who need maximum cleaning power.
- Pros:
- 4400 PSI, 4.0 GPM
- Honda GX390 engine
- AAA industrial triplex pump
- Cons:
- Louder than residential washers
Verdict: A heavy-duty contractor favorite. Check Price Here
3. Simpson MegaShot MSH3125 – 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM (Honda GC190)
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want a Honda-powered washer at a lower price.
- Pros:
- Honda GC190 residential engine
- 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM
- Affordable for a Honda model
- Cons:
- Not as durable as GX-series engines
Verdict: A great entry point for Honda reliability. Check Price Here
Briggs & Stratton vs Honda – Head-to-Head
| Feature | Briggs & Stratton | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Reliability | Good for residential use | Outstanding, lasts decades |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Premium |
| Pump Quality | Mainly axial (shorter life) | Often triplex (long life) |
| Best For | Homeowners on a budget | Professionals, contractors |
| Maintenance | More repairs over time | Low-maintenance |
FAQ – Briggs vs Honda Pressure Washers
1. Which lasts longer, Briggs or Honda?
Honda engines are known to last thousands of hours, especially the GX series. Briggs engines are solid but generally shorter-lived.
2. Are Honda pressure washers worth the higher cost?
Yes, if you’re a professional or plan to use it often. For occasional home use, Briggs may be more cost-effective.
3. Do both brands make their own engines?
Yes. Briggs & Stratton engines are made in the U.S., while Honda engines are made globally but held to strict reliability standards.
4. Can I upgrade a Briggs washer with a Honda engine?
Not easily. Engines and pumps are designed for specific frames and mounts.
5. Which is quieter?
Honda engines generally run smoother and quieter compared to Briggs.
Conclusion
Both Briggs & Stratton and Honda pressure washers have their place. If you’re a homeowner who needs affordable cleaning power a few times a year, a Briggs & Stratton unit is a smart choice. But if you want long-term durability, smoother operation, and professional reliability, a Honda-powered washer is worth the investment.
Our recommendation: Choose Briggs for budget-friendly home use, and Honda if you want professional-grade reliability that lasts for years.