Best Plate Compactors for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 28th, 2024

🔧Choosing the right plate compactor can make or break your hardscaping projects. Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading your gear, having the right machine ensures your pavers, paths, patios, and driveways are stable and long-lasting.

We've dived into the top models out there to give you a range of choices—whether you need the best overall, a budget-friendly option, or something for a specific task. With our recommendations, you'll find the perfect tool to get the job done right.

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Overall Best: WEN 56035T Plate Compactor

WEN 56035T 7 HP 4500-Pound Compaction Force Plate Compactor, CARB Compliant, Black CARB Compliant Plate Compactor

For those seeking unmatched power and reliability, the WEN 56035T Plate Compactor is our top overall choice. Equipped with a robust 7 HP engine, this compactor delivers a formidable 4500 lbs of force, making it versatile enough for jobs ranging from compacting soil to laying asphalt and pavers. It also features an ergonomic design that minimizes user fatigue, enhancing productivity on long projects. Backed by a generous two-year warranty, the WEN 56035T stands out for its durability and performance, ensuring it will serve you well for years to come.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$651.20 at Amazon

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Still curious about the WEN 56035T Plate Compactor? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are common issues with the WEN 56035T plate compactor?
The WEN 56035T Plate Compactor is definitely a hit for folks working on small to medium projects, mostly because it's a good balance of power and budget-friendly pricing. But, like with any machinery, there are a few hiccups you might run into. One notable feature is its CARB compliance, which is basically the WEN's way of sticking to California's strict emission standards. So, if you're environmentally conscious or working in areas with tight air quality rules, this is a bonus without cutting into its overall performance. On the technical side, it's equipped with a solid 7 HP engine that churns out about 4,496 pounds of compaction force. It seems to handle tasks like compacting soil, asphalt, and such in places like patios and sidewalks pretty well. Plus, the setup with a swing-over handle makes it easier to move around tight spots, which our research highlights as a big plus. Now, for the bumps on the road: Starting the engine can be a bit of a hassle for some users. It doesn't always fire up smoothly, which can be annoying if you're not super mechanical or in a rush. Also, handling can get tricky, especially on uneven surfaces or wet soils, so there's a learning curve there if you're new to using compactors. Overall, if you take good care of it and know what to expect, many find it's a worthwhile investment. It's a cost-effective alternative to renting, making it popular among both professional builders and DIYers, despite the few challenges. With some know-how and preparation, the WEN 56035T can be a solid tool in your lineup.

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Runner-up: Tomahawk Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor

Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor Tamper for Ground, Gravel, Dirt, Asphalt, Compaction GX160 Engine Compactor Only

Our runner-up, the Tomahawk Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor, boasts impressive power and efficiency, driven by a reliable Honda GX160 engine. With a compaction force of 3,000 lbs per square foot and a staggering 6400 blows per minute, this compactor excels at handling cohesive soils and granular clays. Ideal for various applications, including landscaping and road repairs, its higher price point is justified by its exceptional build quality and performance, making it a worthy investment for professionals seeking reliable equipment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,699.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How well does the Tomahawk plate compactor work on different surfaces?
If you want to know how the Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor does on different surfaces, here's what we found. It's powered by the strong Honda GX160 engine and can compact cohesive soils and granular materials up to 22 inches deep. This makes it pretty versatile for a variety of surfaces. The manufacturer's product description mentions that it applies a compressive force of 3,000 pounds per square foot, which is pretty solid for surfaces like ground, gravel, dirt, and asphalt. Whether you’re working on landscaping, hardscapes, or road and asphalt tasks, it seems like this compactor can handle it. According to our research, a lot of folks really appreciate the reliability of the Honda engine. It mostly starts on the first or second try, which is a big plus. Some people reported reaching up to 98% compaction, which is pretty impressive. A couple of practical tips from our research: don’t use the wheels when it's running, as the exhaust might not play nicely with them. Additionally, some folks think an engine kill switch would be handy, but those seem like small issues. Overall, feedback on the Tomahawk plate compactor is mostly positive. People like its strong performance and solid build, and say good things about Tomahawk Power's after-sales service. So, whether you’re a pro contractor or someone who likes tackling projects on the weekends, this compactor seems to do a good job across different surface types.
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How powerful is the Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor?
The Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor is pretty reliable and quite powerful, thanks to its [Honda GX160 engine](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhonda%2Bgx160%2Bengine%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). The manufacturer mentions it packs a punch with 5.5 horsepower, so it can handle a range of compacting tasks without too much fuss. From what we've found, a lot of folks appreciate how easy it is to get going. Once you have it set up, it usually starts on the first or second pull, which says a lot about the dependability of that Honda engine. It's great if you're not super familiar with compactors. Setting it up does take a bit of work, though. Our research shows that while some people find it straightforward, especially if you've done this kind of thing before, it’s not always seamless. The compactor needs a bit of assembly when you get it. They do throw in some necessary tools like a heavy-duty wrench and motor oil, but there's a chance the assembly instructions might be missing, which can be a bit of a sticking point if you're not used to piecing these machines together. But, the good news is the manufacturer offers good customer support, so you can reach out to them if you hit a snag or need a hand with anything. Also, it comes with travel wheels, making it easier to lug around different work areas. But be careful not to run it with the wheels still on, as the exhaust heat might mess with them. If you’re searching for a compactor that's both powerful and reliable, the Tomahawk 5.5 HP could be a good fit—as long as you're ready to do a bit of assembly. And don't hesitate to contact [Tomahawk Power](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtomahawk%2Bpower%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) if you need any help—they're known for being pretty supportive.
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Is the Tomahawk plate compactor easy to assemble and use?
Hey! If you're wondering about the Tomahawk 5.5 HP Honda Vibratory Plate Compactor, it seems like a pretty solid option if you need something powerful. It's packed with a GX160 engine that can handle gravel, dirt, and asphalt well, and the manufacturer says it can compact over 3,000 lbs. per square foot. The compact sizing of the plate, which is 17 x 21 inches, is a neat feature, especially if you're working in tighter spots. From our research, it looks like people really appreciate the build quality and ease of use. A lot of folks mention how reliable the engine is, often starting right up on the first pull, which is always a relief. As for putting it together, everything you need comes with it—tools, oil, and clear instructions. So, setting it up shouldn't be a hassle. One of the nice extras is the included [wheel kit](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dwheel%2Bkit%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which makes moving it around much easier, especially on solid ground. This definitely helps if you plan on relocating it often. There are a few areas that could be tweaked to make it even better. Some people think the wheels could be bigger or softer for handling rough terrain more easily. Plus, better lifting points would make moving it around even simpler. Overall, most folks seem really pleased with this compactor. It's seen as a reliable tool that works well for both professional and home projects. If you’re prioritizing easy assembly and use, the Tomahawk Compactor could be worth checking out.

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Budget Pick: Stark Pro-Series Gas Compactor

For those on a tighter budget, the Stark Pro-Series Gas Compactor offers substantial value without compromising on quality. Powered by a 6.5 HP gas engine, this budget-friendly model delivers a respectable 2000 lbs of compaction force. Its versatility and ease of use make it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and small-scale contractors alike, providing a reliable tool for a range of projects without breaking the bank.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Best For Soil: Tomahawk Power Vibratory Plate Compactor for Soil

Tomahawk 5.5 HP Vibratory Plate Compactor Tamper for Dirt, Asphalt, Gravel, Soil Compaction Powered by Honda GX160 Engine Compactor Only

Specializing in soil compaction, the Tomahawk Power Vibratory Plate Compactor stands out with its powerful 260cc Kohler engine delivering 6 HP and 3,000 lbs of compaction force. Its high-frequency 6,400 VPM is particularly effective for granular soils, yet it also performs well with cohesive materials. This compactor is ideal for those needing solid and durable foundations, making it a dependable choice for comprehensive soil compaction tasks.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,259.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Tomahawk 5.5 HP Vibratory Plate Compactor? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

Best For Asphalt: Multiquip MVC82VHW Honda GX160 Plate Compactor

Multiquip MVC82VH Honda GX160 Plate Compactor with No Water Tank, 18" Wide

The Multiquip MVC82VHW Honda GX160 Plate Compactor is our top pick for asphalt compaction. It features a smooth base to prevent dragging on hot asphalt and an 11.5-quart water tank that maintains a film of water between the machine and the material, preventing surface damage. With a powerful 160cc Honda motor generating 3,080 lbs of compaction force and 5,600 VPM, it’s efficient not just for asphalt but also for gravel, soil, and sand. This versatile machine makes an excellent addition to any toolkit where asphalt work is common.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$2,704.69 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Multiquip MVC82VH Plate Compactor? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

Best Maneuverability: NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor

NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor -with 5.5 HP Honda GX160 Engine

For navigating tight spaces, the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor is a standout. Its compact footprint of 14 3/4 inches by 13 3/16 inches makes it perfect for confined areas, such as small yards, trenches, and narrow paths. Powered by a 160cc Honda engine delivering 2,270 lbs of force at 5,700 VPM, it offers exceptional maneuverability and a rapid ground coverage rate of 82 ft/min. Though its price is relatively high, the ease of use in constrained spaces justifies the investment, making it a must-have for those challenging, tight spots.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,199.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How heavy is the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor?
The NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor weighs 179 pounds. It's often noted for being efficient and reliable, which is great if you're working on landscape or construction projects. It comes with a 5.5 HP [Honda GX160 engine](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhonda%2Bgx160%2Bengine%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is pretty popular for its reliability. According to our research, many folks have mentioned that it starts easily, often getting going on the first pull. This can be super helpful when you need to get the job done without any hiccups. The manufacturer mentions that it delivers 2,270 lbs. of compacting force and can move at a speed of 65 to 82 feet per minute. Its compact design helps it maneuver in tight spaces and around obstacles, reducing any missed spots. It vibrates at 5,700 vibrations per minute and has a compaction plate size of about 13 x 15 inches, which helps in getting a solid and stable ground. Even though it's 179 pounds, our research suggests that with two people, it's manageable to move around when needed. Its shape is kind of like a lawnmower, which also makes it easier to store—useful if you don't have a lot of space. Feedback is mostly positive, with people recommending it for both small home projects and bigger professional jobs. The Honda engine's performance and ease of handling seem to get a lot of positive nods. There have been some mentions of minor issues, like with the throttle cable, but overall, they don't seem to diminish the value and reliability this compactor offers. So, if you're trying to avoid the hassle of renting, this compactor looks like a solid investment. It's popular among both beginners and experienced users for its dependability and performance.
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Is the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor easy to start?
The NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor comes with a 5.5 HP [Honda GX160 engine](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhonda%2Bgx160%2Bengine%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is known for being tough and reliable. People often use Honda engines in heavy-duty construction tools, so it's designed to handle demanding jobs. According to the manufacturer, this compactor packs 2,270 lbs of compacting force and moves at a pace of 65–82 feet per minute, so it's meant to get your work done efficiently. When it comes to starting it up, we found that folks generally have positive things to say. Many have mentioned that the Honda engine starts pretty easily, often on the first pull. That's a big plus if you're trying to avoid the hassle of multiple starting attempts when you're eager to get on with your work. Aside from starting, the compactor is pretty effective overall. It's good at compacting materials for projects like laying pavers. Some have pointed out that it firms up the ground quicker than using a hand tamper, which is kind of a bonus. It might be on the heavier side, but its compact size—not too different from a smaller push lawnmower—makes it easy enough to store and move around. That said, there are a couple of things you might want to be aware of. Some have had issues with the throttle cable loosening, but they've found it's manageable using the built-in controls. There's also been a rare mention of a throttle lever breaking early on, but that seems to be an exception rather than the rule. So overall, it seems that the NorthStar Compactor is well-regarded for both personal and professional use. The powerful engine and its ease of start make it a strong consideration if you need a reliable tool for compacting tasks. Just keep those small quirks in mind to make sure it suits what you're looking to do.
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How powerful is the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor?
The NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor is quite a powerful machine. It packs a punch with a 5.5 HP [Honda GX160](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhonda%2bgx160%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) engine, which is known for its reliability and efficiency. One cool detail from the manufacturer is that it has a cast iron cylinder liner, which they say boosts durability—pretty important when you're using it for tough compacting jobs. It cranks out about 5,700 vibrations per minute, with a compacting plate size of 13 3/16 in. x 14 3/4 in. According to the manufacturer, this gives you around 2,270 lbs. of compacting force at a speed of 65–82 feet per minute, making it a good fit for both contractors and serious DIY projects. Our research shows that folks really appreciate how reliably the engine starts—often on the first pull—which is a big plus for regular or heavy-duty use. Compared to renting, this reliability can make a big difference. Its compact size, kind of like a small push lawnmower, means you can store it easily without giving up on power. Plus, it can get up close to walls, which people find really helpful for tight spaces, whether you're landscaping or working on bigger construction jobs. Some folks have noted issues with the throttle lever breaking sooner than expected, so it's worth handling those smaller bits with care to avoid minor repairs down the line. All in all, the NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor is praised for being strong, durable, and efficient. If you need something for frequent, tough compaction work, our data suggests it performs well and holds up over time.
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