These Editor-Approved Post Hole Diggers Help You Tackle Pro-Level Landscaping Projects With Ease

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Placing posts on your property can be physically demanding, but using a reliable and effective post hole digger can help get the job done quickly and efficiently. These diggers come in two different styles, both of which do essentially the same task. Traditional handheld models use two curved blades to manually cut, scoop, and lift out dirt, while automatic—either electric or gas-powered—versions use a rotating auger to displace and pull dirt out of the hole.

Although their primary job is digging holes for posts, post hole diggers are also useful for other landscaping projects, like tilling soil and creating planting holes for bushes and trees. Some automatic versions can even drill holes for ice fishing. To help you find the right model, below you’ll find advice to aid your search followed by the best post hold diggers we recommend.

For more must-have outdoor tools, check out our coverage of the best lawn dethatchers, weed eater strings, and leaf vacuums.

The Best Post Hole Diggers

• Best Overall: DC House Post Hole Digger

• Best Budget Manual: Ames Post Hole Digger

• Best Gas-Powered: Tazz Earth Auger/Post Hole Digger

• Best Heavy-Duty Manual: Fiskars Post Hole Digger

• Best Battery-Powered: Landworks Earth Auger/Post Hole Digger

What to Consider

Take the time to consider exactly how you’re planning to use a post hole digger—or you could end up with an expensive tool that may not be as useful as it could be. If you’re only going to be digging a couple holes at a time, you should probably go with a simple manual option. For any jobs that are more extensive, it’s wise to go with a gas, electric, or battery-powered automatic model. If you do go automatic, gas-powered machines are going to be the most powerful, but keep in mind that you’ll be dealing with fuel mixes and exhaust fumes.

If you’re going to be securing your posts in place with concrete, the general rule of thumb is to dig holes three times as wide as the post.

How We Selected

I’ve used both manual and automatic post hole diggers in my past as a residential landscaper, and used this experience to curate this list of options. This list primarily includes higher-end diggers when it comes to manual models, but after snapping handles on cheaper models in the past, it’s definitely worth the extra investment.

This list also includes a range of power supply options for our automatic diggers, including battery, corded electric, and gasoline-powered machines. We also made sure to cover post hole diggers across a range of fuel options and price points.

Post Hole Digger

The best thing about this digger is its versatility: it comes with four different auger sizes from which to choose, ranging from 6 to 12 inches in width, as well as the tools and hardware needed to easily switch them out. It also includes three extension rods for adjusting the depth of your holes.

This is a relatively powerful machine, with a robust 63cc two-stroke gasoline engine for powering through holes quickly, back-to-back. We would’ve liked a 4-inch auger for smaller posts, but if you’re only interested in larger holes, that shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.

Post Hole Digger

If you just need to create one or two post holes and want a reliable, manual option, this Ames model could be the perfect fit. The cushioned rubber handles make for a comfortable, stable grip, and the sturdy hardwood construction provides a solid feel as you work.

Our favorite feature of this digger is the measurement markings on the handles themselves for precision in hitting your desired hole depth without having to go find a yardstick or measuring tape. Plus, the steel blades are strong and durable enough to stand up the occasional rock or root you may run into.

Earth Auger/Post Hole Digger

We love the raw power that this 43cc gas-powered digger provides, making it well-suited for those who have large fencing or digging projects in their future. A convenient clutch keeps you in control if the auger catches on any roots or large rocks, which could otherwise result in dangerous torque transfer to your hands and arms.

A large spring welded to the auger absorbs vibrations, and along with the sturdy steel handlebars, contributes to a comfortable operation with minimum user effort. It can effectively drill holes up to 36 inches deep, which should be sufficient for the majority of residential tasks.

Post Hole Digger

Our favorite feature of this model is its X-shaped design, which not only makes it easier to use, but also prevents your knuckles from smacking together—a frequent problem with manual diggers.

At 11.8 pounds, it’s heavier than many comparable models, but if you have the strength to use it, weight can be a benefit to sink the digger deep into the soil with each plunge. The powder-coated frame and blades also make it easy to wipe down and keep clean once you’re finished.

Earth Auger

The 6-inch-wide auger of this digger is wide enough for larger posts, and with a wide-set pair of handlebars, it’s designed for comfortable operation.

Although the limited runtime of a battery-powered model could be a problem for some, keep in mind that this digger and its 2.0Ah battery can complete about 30 holes on a single charge. So unless you’re going to be tackling some serious digging projects, this model should work for most homeowners.

If you do think you’ll be needing more runtime, a 4.0Ah battery can be purchased separately.

Industrial Electric Post Hole Digger

With a wide, 6-inch auger and a heavy-duty 1500-watt motor, this corded digger is a great choice for anyone who needs to dig a lot of holes and doesn’t want to worry about stopping to recharge batteries or refill fuel tanks.

It’s also designed to be comfortable to use, and its rubberized handles provide a solid grip to harness leverage for safe operation. The safety lock on its trigger is also a perk for preventing you from accidentally activating the auger.

43cc Gas Posthole Digger

Another gas-powered model, this machine features a powerful 43cc engine and an 8-inch-wide auger bit with a fishtail point. Its butterfly-style handlebars allow for maximum control, and the convenient throttle trigger lets you maintain a solid grip while you work.

The handlebars are also easy to detach, which makes this digger convenient to store and a good choice for those who may be tight on space.

At nearly 40 pounds, it is heavier than most other options on our list, so keep that in mind if you’d prefer something a bit lighter.

You Might Also Like

• The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Painter’s Tape

• The Best Portable BBQ Grills for Cooking Anywhere

• Can a Smart Watch Prolong Your Life?