Which chipper to buy, drum or disc?

From this article, you will learn:
- What is the difference between a drum chipper and a disc chipper?
- Which chipper to buy – disc or drum?
- Which chipper is better – disc or drum?
What is the difference between a drum chipper and a disc chipper?
The main difference between drum and disc chippers lies in their operation and cutting efficiency.
Drum chippers use a drum equipped with cutting knives that rotate at high speed, shredding wood into chips or sawdust. This type is commonly used in professional applications requiring high efficiency and the ability to process thick and hard branches.
Advantages of drum chippers:
- High efficiency – ideal for processing large amounts of wood,
- Ability to cut thick logs and branches,
- Uniform chip size, suitable for fuel purposes.
Disadvantages of drum chippers:
- Heavier and bulkier than disc models,
- Higher purchase and maintenance costs,
- Require more powerful engines and higher energy consumption.
Disc chippers use a rotating disc with blades that cut wood into small pieces. They are smaller, lighter, and easier to operate than drum chippers, making them a popular choice among individual users.
Advantages of disc chippers:
- Compact design – takes up less space than drum models,
- Lower purchase cost,
- Easier maintenance and lower operating costs.
Disadvantages of disc chippers:
- Lower efficiency compared to drum models,
- May struggle with thicker logs and hard wood,
- Uneven chip size.
Which chipper to buy – disc or drum?
The decision on which chipper to buy: disc or drum, should depend on its intended use. If you need a machine for intensive work with large amounts of wood, a drum chipper is the better choice. However, if you need a machine for occasional branch shredding in your garden, a disc chipper may be sufficient.
It's also worth checking the cost of a wood chipper, as price differences between models are significant. Drum chippers are more expensive but offer much higher efficiency. Disc models are more affordable and better suited for less demanding tasks.
If you are wondering how much a branch chipper costs, check the range from trusted industrial machine manufacturers, such as Cormak, which offers both drum and disc chippers.
Which chipper is better – disc or drum?
When answering the question of which chipper is better: disc or drum, it's essential to consider their pros and cons. However, the final choice depends on your needs. If you require fast and effective shredding of large amounts of wood, choose a disc chipper.
If you are still unsure, woodworking machines available in Cormak's offer can help you decide. Their selection includes:
Summary
If you are still unsure which branch chipper to choose, defining your needs is key. For private users and small workshops, a disc chipper may be a better option. However, for professionals processing wood on a larger scale, a drum chipper will be the best solution.
Check out the available chippers and choose the machine that suits your needs!