Kärcher K4 vs Kärcher K7: which pressure washer is right for you?

If you take one look at T3's best pressure washers buying guide you'll see one brand dominating all the rest – Kärcher.

Kärcher makes, in T3's expert view, the finest pressure washers that money can buy in 2022 and also offers one of the most comprehensive ranges as well.

The range thing is important because as good as pressure washers are, you only ever need to buy the right system for your needs. The broad Kärcher range means people can do that easily.

Here we've picked two popular models in Kärcher's pressure washer range, the mid-range Kärcher K4 and the high-end Kärcher K7. We're comparing their features and performance so that, hopefully, you can discover which one is best suited to your needs.

• Read our five star Kärcher K4 pressure washer review

Kärcher K4 vs. Kärcher K7: which has more power?

The clue is in the power: pressure washer. One of the most important factors when comparing different washers is how much power – described as both pressure, measured in bar, and flow rate – is on offer. Both the K4 and K7 offer enough power for most people, but there are some situations when you need something that can remove really tough stains, dirt, or whatever else. 

The Kärcher K4 is rated as delivering a maximum of 130 bar while the K7 offers a slightly better maximum of 180 bar, so if you're looking to really show the dirt who's boss, the K7 is the ultimate choice. Flow rate is a similar story: the K4 offers a maximum of 420 while the K7 offers a maximum of 550.

• The best garden hoses, ranked

Kärcher K4 vs. Kärcher K7: portability and hoses

The next most important thing about pressure washers is how portable they are; it's all very well having a really powerful washer, but if you need to get to awkward spaces and it's too heavy, then game over. Without accessories, the K4 weighs in at 12kg while the K7 weighs in at a slightly bulkier 17.7kg. 

Hose length is important, too, because it means you might not necessarily have to more the pressure washer that much in order to get to tight sports. In this category, the K7 is the clear winner: 10 meters to the K4's 6 meters. The K7 also has a built-in hose reel. 

Kärcher K4 vs. Kärcher K7: which is best?

For some, the differences between the K4 and K7 will be meaningful, especially if you need to clean a big driveway or other large space. But if you're looking for a pressure washer that does the job, then the K4 will likely be the best choice. 

It's hard to beat the value for money on offer here, with many of the same high-end features as the K7 but for half the price. In our testing, the Kärcher K4 was regularly the best compromise between price, power, accessories, portability, and a range of other factors. 

• The best garden shredders for every budget
• The best manual garden tools
• The best garden sprinklers