Pressure washers are powerful cleaning tools that utilize pressurized water to tackle dirt, grime, and debris on outdoor surfaces.
Two popular electric pressure washer models are the Karcher K1700 and Sun Joe SPX3000. Both offer robust cleaning power but differ in design, specs and features.
This article provides an in-depth comparison of the Karcher K1700 and Sun Joe SPX3000 to help determine which is the better buy for your cleaning needs.
We’ll examine the pressure, performance, portability, accessories, warranties and other key factors that differentiate these two pressure washers.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Karcher K1700 | Sun Joe SPX3000 |
| Max Pressure | 2000 PSI | 2030 PSI |
| Water Flow Rate | 1.2 GPM | 1.76 GPM |
| Power Source | 120V electric | 120V electric |
| Portability | Wheels, longer cord | No wheels, slightly lighter |
| Weight | 32 lbs | 31 lbs |
| Detergent Tank | Integrated 0.5 gal tank | Uses separate detergent bottle |
| Accessories | 3 nozzles (0o, 25o, 40o) | 5 nozzles (0o, 15o, 25o, 40o, soap) |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 2 years limited |
| Price | Moderately priced ($$) | Very affordable ($) |
Overview of the Karcher K1700 Electric Pressure Washer
The Karcher K1700 is a robust electric pressure washer that delivers strong cleaning power for home use. Here are some key features and specifications:
- Max Pressure: 2000 PSI
- Water Flow Rate: 1.2 GPM
- Power Source: 120V electric
- Motor: Induction motor
- Pump: Annovi Reverberi AR pump
- Power Cable Length: 35 ft
- High Pressure Hose: 25 ft
- Detergent Tank: Integrated 0.5 gal tank
- Nozzles: 0o, 25o & 40o nozzles
- Weight: 32 lbs
- Dimensions: 15.5″L x 12″W x 33″H
- Warranty: 1 year limited
The Karcher K1700 electric pressure washer generates up to 2000 PSI to easily blast away caked-on dirt, mud, grime and stains. Its water flow rate of 1.2 GPM allows for efficient cleaning without consuming too much water.
The induction motor and Annovi Reverberi AR pump work together to deliver consistent power and performance. The 35 ft power cable gives flexibility in accessing power outlets while the 25 ft high-pressure hose provides good reach for cleaning.
An integrated 0.5 gallon detergent tank allows you to apply detergents without having to mix it separately. The K1700 comes with 3 nozzles (0o, 25o, 40o) for adjusting the spray pattern and intensity as needed.
Other features include onboard storage for nozzles and accessories, a water inlet filter and rubberized wheels for maneuverability. The ergonomic spray trigger gun has an easy press and release. At 32 lbs, the K1700 is relatively lightweight for a full-sized electric pressure washer.
Overview of the Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer
The Sun Joe SPX3000 is an affordably priced electric pressure washer that offers robust cleaning power. Here are its key features and specs:
- Max Pressure: 2030 PSI
- Water Flow Rate: 1.76 GPM
- Power Source: 120V electric
- Motor: 14.5 amp
- Pump: Axial cam
- Power Cable Length: 35 ft
- High Pressure Hose: 20 ft
- Detergent Tank: None (requires separate bottle)
- Nozzles: 0o, 15o, 25o, 40o and soap nozzles
- Weight: 31 lbs
- Dimensions: 13.5″L x 11.5″W x 28.9″H
- Warranty: 2 years limited
With 2030 PSI maximum pressure and 1.76 GPM water flow rate, the Sun Joe SPX3000 generates enough cleaning power to remove caked-on gunk, grease stains, mud and more.
Its 14.5 amp motor and axial cam pump work together to deliver steady pressure through its dual detergent tanks during cleaning sessions. At 31 lbs, the SPX3000 is lightweight and fairly compact for storage.
While it doesn’t have an integrated detergent tank, the SPX3000 is designed for use with a separate detergent bottle that attaches securely to the unit. It includes 5 quick-connect nozzle tips (0o, 15o, 25o, 40o and soap) for handling different cleaning tasks.
The 35 ft power cord gives reach and maneuverability around the property. With no wheels, you’ll need to lift and carry the SPX3000 around. But at just 31 lbs, it’s reasonably portable without wheels.
Also Read: Comaprison Between Westinghouse and Ryobi pressure washers
Key Differences Between the Karcher K1700 and Sun Joe SPX3000
Now let’s dive into a detailed, side-by-side comparison of the key features and specifications of the Kärcher K1700 and Sun Joe SPX3000:
Cleaning Power
- The Sun Joe SPX3000 generates a max of 2030 PSI and 1.76 GPM water flow, giving it more intense cleaning power than the Kärcher K1700’s 1700 PSI and 1.2 GPM flow rate.
- With over 300 extra PSI, the SPX3000 exerts greater force on surfaces to scour off stubborn gunk and grime the K1700 may struggle with. The higher GPM also improves its dirt-removing capabilities.
- While the K1700 still packs decent cleaning punch for residential jobs, the SPX3000’s superior PSI and GPM make it better equipped for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Motor Size
- An important component is the motor, which drives the pump to generate high water pressure. The SPX3000 is equipped with a more powerful 14.5-amp motor.
- The K1700’s motor specs are not published by Kärcher, but it is likely a bit smaller based on the lower PSI and GPM capabilities.
- With a larger motor, the SPX3000 can output greater cleaning power more consistently without bogging down under heavy loads.
Hose Length
- The Kärcher K1700 comes with a 25-foot high-pressure hose, while the SPX3000 includes a 20-foot hose.
- The K1700’s hose provides 5 extra feet of length, which allows you to cover more ground from a fixed position before having to move the unit.
- However, both hoses are sufficient for typical small residential cleaning tasks. The SPX3000’s slightly shorter length isn’t a huge disadvantage.
Number of Spray Tips
- The Kärcher K1700 is equipped with four spray tips (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°), while the SPX3000 includes five nozzles (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, soap).
- The additional soap sprayer is beneficial for applying detergents and chemicals before scrubbing. This helps enhance cleaning for the SPX3000.
- Both pressure washers provide a good variety of spray angles (from 0° pencil spray to 40° fan spray) to tackle different cleaning jobs.
Onboard Detergent Tank
- Both the K1700 and SPX3000 have onboard detergent tanks so you can easily apply soaps and cleaners while pressure washing.
- The SPX3000’s tank is 54.1 oz vs. the unspecified tank size of the K1700, but both appear capable of holding adequate detergent.
- Having the built-in tank makes detergent application more convenient than having to manually mix it each time. This is a useful feature on both models.
Warranty Length
- One big difference is the length of the manufacturer’s warranty. Kärcher covers the K1700 with a 1-year limited warranty.
- Meanwhile, Sun Joe provides a full 2-year warranty on the SPX3000. This extra year provides more long-term peace of mind.
- The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Sun Joe’s longer 2 years is more reflective of a quality product.
Price
- At the time of writing, the Kärcher K1700 retails for approximately $149, while the Sun Joe SPX3000 costs around $169.
- Considering the SPX3000’s superior power, extra spray tip, larger detergent tank, and double warranty length, the extra $20 is well worth it.
- The SPX3000 provides greater value for just a slightly higher price point.
While the Kärcher K1700 is a solid mid-range electric pressure washer, the Sun Joe SPX3000 outperforms it in the key areas of cleaning power, accessories, and warranty coverage for just a slightly higher price. The SPX3000 is the smarter investment for tackling tougher home cleaning jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Sun Joe manufactures quality electric pressure washers that offer robust cleaning power at affordable price points. The Sun Joe brand focuses on value and performance. Models like the SPX3000 provide strong pressure washing ability for most homeowners’ cleaning needs while keeping costs down.
The top 5 pressure washers are: Sun Joe SPX3000 – Best electric pressure washer under $200, Ryobi RY141900 – Best for power and accessories, Greenworks 1500 PSI – Most environmentally friendly, Karcher K5 – Gas powered with premium performance, Simpson Cleaning MSH3125-S – Best gas pressure washer under $300. These models represent the leading brands and offer great performance, reliability, features and value. The right choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Sun Joe SPX3000 has a maximum pressure of 2030 PSI (pounds per square inch). This high-powered PSI enables the SPX3000 to clean siding, decks, patios, driveways, vehicles and other outdoor surfaces by blasting away stubborn dirt and stains. The extra pressure allows it to tackle caked-on gunk that garden hoses can’t handle alone.
The Karcher T350 Pressure Washer is considered the best Karcher patio cleaner. With 2100 PSI and a large, rotatable patio cleaning brush, the T350 blasts away dirt and cleans large flat surfaces faster. The integrated brush scrubs patios, walkways, driveways and other areas with stubborn debris. Other features like auto detergent feed, on-board hose reel and sturdy wheels make the Karcher T350 a top choice for patio cleaning.
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Final Thoughts
When choosing between the Karcher K1700 and Sun Joe SPX3000 electric pressure washers, consider how you plan to use the washer and your budget.
The Karcher K1700 offers robust cleaning power, integrated detergent tank and quality construction. With its premium features and brand reputation, it’s ideal for discerning homeowners who pressure wash frequently.
For those seeking an affordable but powerful pressure washer, the Sun Joe SPX3000 packs excellent performance for the price. Its lighter body and included nozzle tips also make it a bit more versatile for most residential tasks.
Either model can handle typical outdoor cleaning jobs like siding, decks, pavement, vehicles and lawn equipment. Take an honest look at which features matter most and you’ll choose the right pressure washer for your home.