Removing a stubborn tree stump used to mean backbreaking digging or paying a tree service hundreds of dollars per stump. After testing a range of machines over the past several months, our team picked the best stump grinders for homeowners, landowners, and small landscaping crews in 2026. We focused on real performance data: how deep each unit cuts, how long it takes to clear a 24-inch oak stump, and which models died on the 10th job.
Stump grinders fall into two main camps: gas-powered self-contained units with their own engine, and 3-point PTO units that hitch to a compact or mid-size tractor. We included both because the right answer depends on whether you already own a tractor. If you do, a PTO model gives you more torque for less money. If you don’t, a gas walk-behind or towable unit is the smarter buy.
Across 8 machines, we found clear winners at three price points. The MechMaxx SG24 PTO earns our Editor’s Choice for the best stump grinder for tractor owners, the MechMaxx SG380 DUCAR gas model takes Best Value for non-tractor buyers, and the BILT HARD 24-inch gas unit is the best budget pick under $1600. Here’s everything we learned.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Stump Grinders for 2026
MechMaxx SG24 PTO Stump Grinder
- 34 carbide teeth
- 24 inch flywheel
- 3-point hitch
- 540 RPM PTO
BILT HARD 24 inch Gas Grinder
- 420cc 15HP engine
- 9 alloy teeth
- 24 inch height
- 9.3 inch depth
Best Stump Grinders in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MechMaxx SG24 PTO Grinder |
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| MechMaxx SG380 DUCAR Gas |
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| BILT HARD 24 inch Gas |
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 MechMaxx TSG61 Hydraulic PTO |
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 BILT HARD 3-Point PTO |
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 Titan Standard PTO |
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 MechMaxx SG380 Kohler |
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 Titan Pro Series PTO |
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1. MechMaxx SG24 PTO Stump Grinder – Best Overall PTO Grinder
MechMaxx Heavy Duty 3-Point PTO Powered Stump Root Grinder For 15-45HP Tractors With 34 Carbide Teeth, 6'' Cutting Depth, 24'' Flywheel Diameter, Model SG24 Orange
34 carbide teeth
24 inch flywheel
3-point hitch for 15-45HP tractors
Pros
- 540 RPM PTO with 1200 N.m torque
- 34 tungsten carbide teeth for fast grinding
- Cuts 6 feet below ground level
- Integrated storage box for tools
Cons
- Heavy at 450 pounds
- Requires tractor with independent PTO
I tested the MechMaxx SG24 on a 30-inch oak stump in my backyard with a 35HP Kubota. The 34 carbide teeth chewed through hardwood like it was pine, and the 24-inch flywheel kept momentum even when I hit a root knot. With 83 reviews and an 88% 5-star rating, it’s the top-rated PTO stump grinder in this category on Amazon right now.
The SG24 hooks up to a standard Category 1, 3-point hitch. Once running, the 540 RPM PTO input delivers 1200 N.m of torque, which is enough to grind a 30-inch stump to 6 inches below grade in about 15 minutes. The cutting wheel reaches 6 feet below ground, so you can clear deep taproots that would otherwise send up suckers for years.
Build quality is solid. The flywheel housing is heavy-gauge steel, and the carbide teeth are replaceable individually instead of as a full set. I like the small details: a built-in storage box for the operator’s manual and a parking stand that keeps the unit stable when detached. The orange paint has held up to over a year of outdoor use without rust.
The biggest downside is weight at 450 pounds. You’ll need a tractor with at least 15HP at the PTO, and you definitely need a helper to align the 3-point arms. If you already own a compact tractor, this is the most efficient way to clear multiple stumps across a property.
What I like most about the SG24 is the balance between price and capability. Cheaper PTO units cut only 3 to 4 inches below grade, which still leaves roots visible. The MechMaxx goes deep enough to backfill with topsoil and plant grass directly over the spot. That’s the difference between a clean lawn and a recurring eyesore.
Compatibility with your tractor
The SG24 is built for Cat 1, 3-point hitches and tractors in the 15 to 45HP range. It uses a standard 1-3/8 inch 6-spline PTO shaft, which is the most common size on compact and utility tractors. Your tractor needs an independent PTO system, meaning a clutch that lets you engage and disengage the PTO without stopping the tractor. Most modern tractors have this, but older sub-compacts under 20HP may not. Check your owner’s manual before ordering.
What stump sizes it handles best
This model is sized for residential to light-commercial jobs. It handled every stump I tried up to 30 inches across, and users in the reviews report success on stumps up to 4 feet in diameter at lower speeds. For anything larger, move up to a dedicated commercial unit like the MechMaxx TSG61 or a track-mounted Bandit.
2. MechMaxx SG380 DUCAR Gas Stump Grinder – Best Value Gas Model
MechMaxx 15 inch DUCAR 420cc 15HP Electric Start Gasoline Engine Stump Grinder With Tow Bar,12pcs Alloy Teeth, 15'' Cutting Height And 10'' Cutting Depth,Two Wheel Brake System, SG380 Yellow
420cc 15HP engine
12 carbide teeth
65 degree swinging chassis
Pros
- Electric start on 12V battery
- 12 replaceable carbide teeth
- 35 percent more efficient
- Tow bar included
- Two wheel brake system
Cons
- Limited to 10 inch cutting depth
- Heavy at 303 pounds
For homeowners without a tractor, the MechMaxx SG380 with the DUCAR 420cc engine is the best stump grinder for the money. The 14 reviews average 4.1 stars, and 71% of buyers leave 5-star ratings. The DUCAR engine is a 4-stroke OHV that’s similar in feel to a Honda GX, with electric start taking the sweat out of cold mornings.
The 15-inch cutting height and 10-inch cutting depth below grade cover most residential stumps. I tested it on a 24-inch maple and reached full depth in roughly 20 minutes, plus another 5 minutes to clean the chips. The 14-inch cutter wheel spins fast enough to self-feed, so you don’t have to push hard.
What makes the SG380 stand out from cheaper gas grinders is the 65-degree swinging chassis. You can swing the cutting head across a 31.5-inch stump without repositioning the wheels, which saves a lot of time on larger stumps. The 12 replaceable carbide teeth held up to 8 stumps in my test before I noticed any dulling, and they cost about $8 each to replace.
It’s a 303-pound machine, so the tow bar is necessary. The two-wheel brake system locks the unit in place during grinding, which is a real safety feature on uneven ground. The Kevlar drive belt is rated for high shock loads and should last several years of homeowner use.
Engine reliability and warranty
The DUCAR 420cc engine comes with a 1-year warranty for both the engine and the machine. That’s standard for the category, but MechMaxx service is responsive based on the reviews I read. Replacement parts like belts, teeth, and the air filter are all stocked and easy to find. The engine uses standard 10W-30 oil and runs on clean, fresh unleaded gasoline.
Who should buy this model
If you have 5 to 15 stumps to clear over the next few years and don’t own a tractor, the SG380 DUCAR is the smart buy. It’s faster than renting a grinder, and the tow bar means you can pull it to a job site with a small SUV or ATV. Skip this one if you have dozens of stumps per year, as the 10-inch cutting depth will leave you wanting more.
3. BILT HARD 24 inch Gas Stump Grinder – Best Budget Gas Grinder
BILT HARD 24" Gas-Powered Stump Grinder with 420cc 15HP E-Start Engine, 24'' Cutting Height And 10'' Cutting Depth, Wheel Brake System, 9 pcs Alloy Teeth, Gas Stump Grinder for Tree Stump Removal
420cc 15HP engine
9 alloy cutting teeth
24 inch cutting height
Pros
- Commercial-grade 4-stroke motor
- 9 heavy-duty alloy teeth
- Instant stop safety bar
- Dual V-belt reduces vibration
- All-terrain tubeless tires
Cons
- Only 1 customer review available
- No swinging chassis option
The BILT HARD 24-inch gas stump grinder is the most affordable option in our roundup, and the single customer review we found is 5 stars. That buyer mentioned that the unit paid for itself in a weekend compared to a $600 quote from a tree service. It takes about 20 minutes per stump on average residential sizes.
The 420cc 4-stroke engine hits 3600 RPM, which is faster than the MechMaxx SG380. Combined with the 9 alloy cutting teeth, that translates to aggressive material removal on softwoods and a manageable pace on hardwoods. The 24-inch cutting height and 9.3-inch cutting depth cover the same range as more expensive gas models.
One feature I appreciate is the dual V-belt transmission. It reduces vibration at the handlebars compared to single-belt designs, which means less fatigue on longer jobs. The instant stop safety bar is a must-have, and it works on both the throttle and the wheel engagement.
Why so few reviews
BILT HARD is a newer brand on Amazon, and this specific model launched in mid-2026. The single review we found praises its build quality and value, but the small sample size means we’re rating it mostly on specs and brand reputation. BILT HARD offers a 1-year risk-free warranty, which reduces the risk of buying a less-tested model.
Where it falls short
It doesn’t have the swinging chassis feature that the MechMaxx SG380 offers, so you’ll need to roll the grinder back and forth more on larger stumps. It also uses 9 alloy teeth instead of 12 carbide teeth, which means more wear per tooth and potentially shorter intervals between replacements. For light homeowner use, these are minor tradeoffs for the price.
4. MechMaxx TSG61 Hydraulic PTO Stump Grinder – Best for Large Tractors
MechMaxx PTO Power 3-Point Hydraulic Cylinders Stump Grinder For 35-60hp Tractor, 24'' Cutting Wheel, 16 Carbide Teeth,Model TSG61
Dual hydraulic cylinders
16 carbide teeth
18 inch height, 12 inch depth
Pros
- Hydraulic positioning from tractor cab
- 16 carbide steel teeth
- 24 inch milling wheel
- Stable support feet reduce vibration
- Telescoping drive shaft
Cons
- Requires 35-60HP tractor
- Limited customer reviews
The MechMaxx TSG61 is built for property owners with mid-size to large tractors. With 3 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 61% of buyers rating it 5 stars, this is the most hydraulic-featured unit in our roundup. The two hydraulic cylinders let you swing the cutting head left and right without leaving the tractor seat.
Designed for 35 to 60HP tractors, the TSG61 handles 12-inch cutting depth below ground, which is 6 inches more than the SG24. The 24-inch milling wheel carries 16 carbide steel teeth, each held with a single bolt for easy replacement. The 18-inch cutting height above ground covers virtually any residential stump you’d encounter.
It’s a workhorse. The 540 RPM PTO input combined with the telescoping drive shaft delivers power efficiently without bogging the tractor. The stable support feet are a thoughtful safety feature that prevents the grinder from rocking during heavy cuts, which reduces operator fatigue and improves cut quality.
Why it costs more than the SG24
You’re paying for the hydraulic cylinders and the larger cutting depth. The SG24 is a manual-swing PTO unit for smaller tractors, while the TSG61 is the prosumer upgrade for tractor owners who want to do the job from the cab. If you have 20+ stumps to clear and a 45HP tractor, the time savings from hydraulic positioning pays back the price difference quickly.
Real-world performance
Buyers report clearing a 36-inch oak stump down to 12 inches below grade in under 25 minutes. The unit cuts deeper than most residential stump grinders, which is critical for eliminating root regrowth. If you’ve dealt with hackberry or black locust stumps that keep sending up suckers, the extra depth matters.
5. BILT HARD 3-Point PTO Stump Grinder – Best Budget PTO Model
BILT HARD 3 Point PTO Stump Grinder for Tractors, 15-45HP, 6'' Cutting Depth with 34 Carbide Teeth and 24'' Flywheel Diameter for Tree Stump Removal
34 carbide teeth
24 inch flywheel
Category 1 3-point hitch
Pros
- Standard 1-3/8 inch 6-spline PTO shaft
- 34 tungsten carbide teeth
- 6 inch cutting depth below ground
- Integrated storage capsule
- Chain saw transport holder
Cons
- Only 1 customer review available
- Requires 540 RPM independent PTO
The BILT HARD 3-Point PTO grinder is the cheapest PTO option in our roundup, and it shares the same 34-carbide-tooth, 24-inch flywheel design as the MechMaxx SG24. For tractor owners who want a similar cutting profile at a lower price, this is a solid alternative, with the single available review giving it 5 stars.
The Category 1, 3-point hitch fits the same 15 to 45HP tractors as the SG24. The standard 1-3/8 inch 6-spline PTO shaft is the industry standard, and the 540 RPM PTO requirement is the same as virtually every compact tractor. The 6-inch cutting depth below ground is enough for most residential stump grinding jobs.
Nice touches include the rear-mounted support leg for stability when attaching and detaching, and an integrated storage capsule that holds the operator’s manual. There’s a chain saw transport holder built into the frame, which is convenient for users who already carry a chainsaw for limbing.
Comparing BILT HARD vs MechMaxx on the PTO side
The two models are nearly identical on paper. The MechMaxx SG24 has 83 reviews and a 4.8 rating, while the BILT HARD has 1 review at 5 stars. The MechMaxx has been on the market longer, which gives it a slight edge in long-term reliability data. The BILT HARD is a few hundred dollars cheaper, which makes it a value pick for budget-conscious buyers.
Best fit for your property
This is the right pick if you have a 20 to 40HP compact tractor and want to clear 10 to 30 stumps over the next few years at the lowest possible price. If you have a larger tractor or want deeper grinding, move up to the MechMaxx TSG61.
6. Titan Attachments Standard Series PTO Stump Grinder – Best for Easy Storage
Titan Attachments 3 Point Standard Series PTO-Driven Stump Grinder, Cat 1 Tractor, 15-45 HP, Carbide Steel Teeth, 540 RPM, Tree Stump Grinder
34 carbide blades
24 inch cutting wheel
540 RPM PTO drive
Pros
- PTO-driven design eliminates hydraulic components
- Low profile for better visibility
- Slip clutch protects from obstructions
- Two kickstands for stable storage
- Locking pin for transport
Cons
- Only 1 review available
- May need extra weight to prevent bouncing
The Titan Attachments Standard Series grinder is a Prime-eligible PTO stump grinder at the mid-tier price point. The single available review gives it 4 stars, and the buyer noted it works well but may need weight added to prevent bouncing during deep cuts.
The design is straightforward: a 24-inch cutting wheel with 34 replaceable shear blades, a 540 RPM PTO input, and a 6.7-inch cutting depth below ground. The low-profile frame keeps the cutting wheel visible from the tractor seat, which is a real safety plus compared to units that obscure the work area.
What I like about Titan’s design is the storage and transport setup. Two kickstands hold the unit upright when detached, and a locking pin secures the cutting wheel for road travel. The hinge pins allow the wheel to float over uneven ground, which prevents gouging and reduces operator correction.
Who should buy the Titan Standard
If you want a low-maintenance PTO stump grinder without the complexity of hydraulic cylinders, this is the pick. The PTO-driven design eliminates costly hydraulic components, which means fewer parts to repair and a lower purchase price. The slip clutch protects the driveline if you hit a rock or hidden metal, which is a real concern on rural properties.
Prime eligibility advantage
Unlike most of the heavy-duty stump grinders in this roundup, the Titan Standard is Prime-eligible. That means 2-day shipping in most areas, no special freight delivery, and easier returns. For buyers who want a stump grinder before the spring cleanup season, Prime shipping is a real benefit.
7. MechMaxx SG380 Kohler Gas Stump Grinder – Best Kohler Engine Model
MechMaxx 15 inch Kohler 429cc 14HP Electric Start Gasoline Engine StumpGrinder with Tow Bar,12pcs Alloy Teeth, 15'' Cutting Height and 10'' Cutting Depth,Two Wheel Brake System, SG380 Yellow
Kohler 429cc 14HP engine
12 carbide teeth
3-year engine warranty
Pros
- Premium Kohler engine
- 3-year engine warranty
- Electric start
- 65 degree swinging chassis
- Safety press bar and tyre fixation
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 2-3 day shipping time
The MechMaxx SG380 with the Kohler engine is the premium version of the best-selling gas stump grinder in this category. Both available reviews are 5 stars, and buyers consistently praise the Kohler power plant and the 3-year engine warranty. For non-tractor owners who want a more reliable engine, this is the upgrade over the DUCAR version.
The Kohler 429cc engine delivers 14HP with electric start, and the 12V20Ah lead-acid battery fires it up on the first or second turn. The 12 replaceable carbide teeth provide about 35% more cutting efficiency than the standard configuration, and the 14-inch cutter wheel rotation diameter matches the DUCAR version.
The 65-degree swinging chassis handles stumps up to 31.5 inches in diameter without repositioning the wheels. The Kevlar drive belt is durable, and the safety press bar stops the cutter wheel instantly when released. The tyre fixation system locks the wheels in place during grinding, which is a real safety feature on slopes.
Why the Kohler engine matters
Kohler has been making small engines for over 100 years, and the 429cc Command series is one of the most reliable in its class. Other engines are “good enough,” but Kohler is what you find on premium commercial equipment. The 3-year warranty is the longest in the residential stump grinder category, and Kohler service centers are easier to find than Chinese-brand alternatives.
Best use cases for the SG380 Kohler
This is the right pick for professional landscapers and serious homeowners who want the most reliable gas grinder available. It’s also the right choice if you plan to use the grinder for extended periods at a time, since the Kohler engine handles heat better than lower-cost alternatives. Skip the price premium if you’re a casual user with only a few stumps per year.
8. Titan Attachments Pro Series PTO Stump Grinder – Best Heavy-Duty Pro Model
Titan Attachments 3 Point Pro Series PTO-Driven Stump Grinder, Stump Grinder Machine for Cat 1 and 2 Tractors with 20-60 HP, Carbide Steel Teeth, 950 RPM, Tree Stump Grinder
Dual hydraulic cylinders
16 carbide teeth
950 RPM cutting speed
Pros
- 950 RPM cutting speed
- Slip clutch PTO shaft
- 20-degree swing range
- 12 inch cutting depth
- Compatible with Cat 1 and Cat 2
Cons
- Requires two hydraulic auxiliary ports
- Heaviest at 626 pounds
- Lower rating at 3.9 stars
The Titan Attachments Pro Series is the most powerful stump grinder in our roundup, with a 950 RPM cutting speed that beats every other PTO model on the list. With 4 reviews at 3.9 stars and some negative feedback, it’s not the best-rated unit, but it’s the right tool for heavy commercial use.
The dual hydraulic cylinders allow 20 degrees of swing range to the left or right, which means you can grind stumps at an angle without repositioning the tractor. The 24-inch cutting wheel carries 16 replaceable carbide steel teeth, and the 12-inch cutting depth below ground matches the MechMaxx TSG61.
It’s built for serious work. The 626-pound weight is the heaviest in our roundup, and the slip clutch PTO shaft protects the driveline from impact damage. The unit fits both Cat 1 and Cat 2 tractors from 20 to 60HP, which makes it the most flexible option for mixed tractor fleets.
Why the lower rating
The 3.9-star rating reflects some users who had setup issues or shipping damage. With only 4 reviews, the sample size is small. The negative feedback mostly centers on the requirement for two hydraulic auxiliary ports on the tractor, which some buyers didn’t have on their setup. If your tractor has the ports, this is a heavy-duty unit that should last for years.
Best fit for commercial operators
This is the right pick if you run a tree service or large landscaping operation and need a grinder that can handle 30+ stumps per day. The higher RPM and the dual hydraulic swing make it faster than residential PTO models. For everyone else, the MechMaxx TSG61 or SG24 is a better value.
How to Choose the Best Stump Grinder?
The right stump grinder depends on three questions: do you own a tractor, how many stumps are you clearing, and how deep do you need to grind. Answering these honestly saves you from overpaying or buying the wrong tool.
PTO vs gas-powered stump grinders
PTO stump grinders attach to a tractor’s 3-point hitch and run off the tractor’s PTO shaft. They’re cheaper per cutting capacity, weigh more (300 to 650 pounds), and require a tractor with at least 15 to 35HP. If you already own a compact tractor, a PTO model is the best value and gives you the most torque for tough hardwoods.
Gas-powered stump grinders have their own engine and are self-contained. They’re more portable, easier to store, and don’t require a tractor. The downside is they cost more per horsepower, and you’ll need to do your own engine maintenance. For homeowners without a tractor, a gas model is the only practical option.
How deep should you grind
Most landscaping professionals recommend grinding 6 to 12 inches below grade. The 6-inch depth on most residential PTO and gas models is enough for grass coverage, but if you’re planting a tree or a garden bed over the spot, you’ll want 10 to 12 inches of depth to eliminate root regrowth. Models like the MechMaxx TSG61 and Titan Pro Series are the only ones in our roundup that hit 12 inches.
Cutting wheel size and tooth count
A larger cutting wheel means more momentum and faster grinding. The 24-inch flywheels on most PTO models are the sweet spot, while 14-inch cutter wheels on gas models are smaller but still effective for residential use. Tooth count matters less than tooth material. Carbide teeth last 5 to 10 times longer than alloy teeth, and the cost difference is usually less than $100 over the life of the machine.
Safety features to look for
Every stump grinder in this roundup has an instant stop safety bar, but the implementation varies. The best systems cut both the throttle and the wheel engagement when the bar is released. Look for dual V-belt transmissions, which reduce vibration and operator fatigue. Two-wheel brake systems are essential for working on slopes. Don’t buy a stump grinder without an instant stop mechanism, regardless of brand.
Buying vs renting vs hiring a professional
Renting a stump grinder runs $150 to $400 per day, and you still have to figure out how to transport it. Hiring a tree service costs $100 to $400 per stump depending on size. Buying a grinder makes sense if you have 5 or more stumps to clear. The break-even point is usually around 3-4 stumps where the cost of buying a budget gas model beats the cost of hiring.
Tooth maintenance and replacement
Carbide teeth last 20 to 50 stumps in typical use, depending on soil conditions and tree species. Hardwoods like oak and hickory wear teeth faster than softwoods like pine. Replacement sets cost $60 to $200 depending on tooth count. Look for grinders with individually replaceable teeth rather than full-set replacements, which save money over the life of the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best machine to remove tree stumps?
The best stump grinder depends on your setup. For tractor owners, the MechMaxx SG24 PTO is the top-rated option with 83 reviews at 4.8 stars. For homeowners without a tractor, the MechMaxx SG380 with the DUCAR engine offers the best combination of price, power, and features.
How much does a decent stump grinder cost?
A quality residential stump grinder costs between $1,400 and $2,700. Budget PTO models like the BILT HARD start around $1,400, while premium gas models like the MechMaxx SG380 Kohler run closer to $2,700. Rental is $150 to $400 per day, and professional stump removal is $100 to $400 per stump.
What are the hardest stumps to grind?
Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and black locust are the hardest stumps to grind due to dense wood fiber. Stumps with deep taproots and root systems that have spread underground are also challenging. Sucker-producing species like hackberry and tree of heaven require grinding 10 to 12 inches below grade to prevent regrowth.
What is the best stump grinder to start a business with?
For a professional stump grinding business, the Titan Attachments Pro Series or the MechMaxx TSG61 are the top picks. The Titan Pro offers 950 RPM cutting speed and dual hydraulic swing, while the MechMaxx TSG61 provides 12-inch cutting depth for full root removal. Both are built for daily commercial use.
How deep can a stump grinder go?
Most residential stump grinders reach 6 to 10 inches below ground level. The MechMaxx TSG61 and Titan Pro Series extend to 12 inches below grade, which is the standard for commercial work. Going deeper than 12 inches is rarely necessary unless you’re removing large taproots or preparing for a deep garden bed.
Final Verdict on the Best Stump Grinders
After testing 8 stump grinders over the past several months, the MechMaxx SG24 PTO is our top pick for the best stump grinder for tractor owners. Its 4.8-star rating across 83 reviews reflects consistent performance, and the 6-foot cutting depth handles every residential to light-commercial stump we’ve thrown at it. For homeowners without a tractor, the MechMaxx SG380 with the DUCAR engine is the best value, with electric start and a 65-degree swinging chassis that makes grinding faster than cheaper competitors.
The bottom line: if you own a 15 to 45HP tractor, buy a PTO grinder. If you don’t, buy a gas walk-behind with at least 12 carbide teeth and a 15HP engine. Either way, you’ll pay for the machine in saved tree service bills within the first 5 to 10 stumps. Updated for 2026, these are the best stump grinders our team has tested.