I’ve researched and compared the best wacker compactor plates on the UK market. My top recommendation is the Evolution Hulk Electric Compactor Plate.
My Top Recommended Wacker Compactor Plates
Editors Choice
Evolution Hulk Electric Compactor Plate
Quick Navigation
My Product Reviews & Opinions
Why can you trust our reviews – Read here about our stringent editorial standards and how we test and review products.
The Evolution Hulk Electric Compactor Plate is an efficient and robust machine, suitable for both domestic and commercial construction projects.
This compactor plate is electric powered which gives it a number of advantages over petrol models. It’s powered by a 780 W induction motor which means no harmful fumes are emitted. This makes it ideal for enclosed spaces, and it’s a lot lighter than its petrol competitors at 26 kg.
It can be used to compact sand, gravel, crusher run, soil and small aggregates. For those looking to install a patio or redo their driveway, this model is ideal. It runs at 1860 RPM and has a 5 m / min travel speed, a fair amount slower than others I’ve tested.
Running at just 94 dB, it’s also a lot quieter than petrol models. While ear defenders are recommended, the low noise certainly sets it apart from noisy gas-driven counterparts. There’s also a vibration damper system to improve user comfort.
The paving pad accessory is a great extra feature. This pad is fitted to the underside of the machine and means it can be used directly on the flat stones or paving blocks for a perfectly even finish.
Some may find the 10 m electric cord somewhat restrictive, depending on the size of their work area.
Overall, thanks to its durable and sturdy construction, it’s a great investment for both residential and professional applications.
Scores:
- Ease of Use
- Power
- Manoeuvrability
- Value for Money
- Overall
The Evolution Hulk Electric Compactor Plate is an efficient and robust machine, suitable for both domestic and commercial construction projects.
This compactor plate is electric powered which gives it a number of advantages over petrol models. It’s powered by a 780 W induction motor which means no harmful fumes are emitted. This makes it ideal for enclosed spaces, and it’s a lot lighter than its petrol competitors at 26 kg.
It can be used to compact sand, gravel, crusher run, soil and small aggregates. For those looking to install a patio or redo their driveway, this model is ideal. It runs at 1860 RPM and has a 5 m / min travel speed, a fair amount slower than others I’ve tested.
Running at just 94 dB, it’s also a lot quieter than petrol models. While ear defenders are recommended, the low noise certainly sets it apart from noisy gas-driven counterparts. There’s also a vibration damper system to improve user comfort.
The paving pad accessory is a great extra feature. This pad is fitted to the underside of the machine and means it can be used directly on the flat stones or paving blocks for a perfectly even finish.
Some may find the 10 m electric cord somewhat restrictive, depending on the size of their work area.
Overall, thanks to its durable and sturdy construction, it’s a great investment for both residential and professional applications.
Features:
- Power Source
- Corded Electric
- Weight
- 26 kg
- Horsepower
- 1.05 hp
Pros
- A good option for domestic users who are after an easy to use tool
- Electric powered means it runs very quietly while it’s also far lower maintenance than petrol powered machine
- Does a good job flattening both sand and other aggregates
- Cable is robust and 10 m long so you have a lot of freedom to move to different areas
- Paving pad accessory allows you to get a neat finish
Cons
- Has noticeable less force than petrol powered wacker plates
- 10 m cable may be restrictive
If you’re looking for a petrol powered compactor plate, the Hyundai Petrol Compactor Wacker Plate is well worth considering, and from a brand like Hyundai, you can’t really go wrong!
With an 87 cc engine and a large 495 x 320 mm plate, this is a serious machine, built for large domestic and commercial spaces.
It’s primarily been designed for large areas. There’s no cable to worry about, and the large 1.6 L fuel tank means you can work for long periods of time without having to stop and refuel. The plate allows you to work efficiently across open areas, including patios, driveways and conservatories. The quick travelling speed of 25 m / min adds to the efficiency, and it works to a depth of 250 mm.
With an impressive centrifugal force of up to 8200 N, this compactor plate delivers excellent compaction results. The machine has also benefited with a vibration-reducing handle, which makes it more comfortable to operate for longer periods of time. The easy to use throttle control is conveniently located on the handle, making it easy to operate with one hand.
At 53 kg, this machine is fairly lightweight for a petrol powered compactor plate. It’s easy to manoeuvre across the job site, and is fitted with a lifting hook, making it easier to transport and store when not in use.
On the downside, this plate is very noisy. It may cause some disturbance to neighbours, and of course, ear defenders must be worn.
Overall, this Hyundai Petrol Compactor Wacker Plate is a powerful and dependable tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its robust construction and high speed make it ideal for a range of larger projects. Despite the high price point and noise level, it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking a rapid way to compact soil, gravel and sand.
Scores:
- Ease of Use
- Power
- Manoeuvrability
- Value for Money
- Overall
If you’re looking for a petrol powered compactor plate, the Hyundai Petrol Compactor Wacker Plate is well worth considering, and from a brand like Hyundai, you can’t really go wrong!
With an 87 cc engine and a large 495 x 320 mm plate, this is a serious machine, built for large domestic and commercial spaces.
It’s primarily been designed for large areas. There’s no cable to worry about, and the large 1.6 L fuel tank means you can work for long periods of time without having to stop and refuel. The plate allows you to work efficiently across open areas, including patios, driveways and conservatories. The quick travelling speed of 25 m / min adds to the efficiency, and it works to a depth of 250 mm.
With an impressive centrifugal force of up to 8200 N, this compactor plate delivers excellent compaction results. The machine has also benefited with a vibration-reducing handle, which makes it more comfortable to operate for longer periods of time. The easy to use throttle control is conveniently located on the handle, making it easy to operate with one hand.
At 53 kg, this machine is fairly lightweight for a petrol powered compactor plate. It’s easy to manoeuvre across the job site, and is fitted with a lifting hook, making it easier to transport and store when not in use.
On the downside, this plate is very noisy. It may cause some disturbance to neighbours, and of course, ear defenders must be worn.
Overall, this Hyundai Petrol Compactor Wacker Plate is a powerful and dependable tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its robust construction and high speed make it ideal for a range of larger projects. Despite the high price point and noise level, it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking a rapid way to compact soil, gravel and sand.
Features:
- Power Source
- Petrol
- Weight
- 53 kg
- Horsepower
- 2.8 hp
Pros
- Easy to assemble in just a few minutes
- Starts on the first time most of the time
- Built to last with a sturdy build and quality Hyundai engine
- Wheel kit can help to transport it from one spot to the next
- Travelling speed of 25m/min allows you to cover large areas efficiently
Cons
- Petrol engines can be very loud, which is a drawback if you’re working in a residential area
- Generates a lot of vibration although the soft handles do help to minimise this
With a 196 cc engine the RocwooD Wacker Compactor Plate is one of the most powerful wacker compactor plates I tested, yet it remains affordable and budget-friendly when compared to competitors.
This plate can be used to compact tarmac, sand, gravel and other materials, and its 530 x 370 mm plate size makes it a great choice for medium size areas. It works with a centrifugal force of 1100 N and a compaction depth of 250 mm. The travel speed is 25 m / min, so it’s a good choice for large jobs.
This compactor plate remains fairly manoeuvrable, despite the 63 kg weight. It’s simple to operate while the wheels allow you to effortlessly move it to and from the job site. It’s easy to push over hard surfaces, while the paving pad prevents scratches, so it can be used on patios and paving.
It’s petrol powered and has a large fuel tank, as well as a removable throttle control. The steel frame is durable, while the drain hose allows for mess-free oil changes.
All in all, Rocwood has thought of most things when it comes to this compactor plate. Having said that, some users have reported issues with the clutch and engine quality, so this is worth considering. If you’re looking for a fairly affordable machine (when compared to some of its competitors!) this model is a good choice.
Scores:
- Ease of Use
- Power
- Manoeuvrability
- Value for Money
- Overall
With a 196 cc engine the RocwooD Wacker Compactor Plate is one of the most powerful wacker compactor plates I tested, yet it remains affordable and budget-friendly when compared to competitors.
This plate can be used to compact tarmac, sand, gravel and other materials, and its 530 x 370 mm plate size makes it a great choice for medium size areas. It works with a centrifugal force of 1100 N and a compaction depth of 250 mm. The travel speed is 25 m / min, so it’s a good choice for large jobs.
This compactor plate remains fairly manoeuvrable, despite the 63 kg weight. It’s simple to operate while the wheels allow you to effortlessly move it to and from the job site. It’s easy to push over hard surfaces, while the paving pad prevents scratches, so it can be used on patios and paving.
It’s petrol powered and has a large fuel tank, as well as a removable throttle control. The steel frame is durable, while the drain hose allows for mess-free oil changes.
All in all, Rocwood has thought of most things when it comes to this compactor plate. Having said that, some users have reported issues with the clutch and engine quality, so this is worth considering. If you’re looking for a fairly affordable machine (when compared to some of its competitors!) this model is a good choice.
Features:
- Power Source
- Petrol
- Weight
- 63 kg
- Horsepower
- 5.5 hp
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly when compared to other models
- Good compaction force makes it suitable for light to medium duty work
- Easy to operate and handle so a good choice for beginners
- Comes with a durable steel frame and base plate for added longevity
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the clutch and engine quality
One of the more affordable compactor plates I’ve tested, the Wolf Petrol Wacker Compactor Plate is a great choice for DIY enthusiasts or those working in the construction industry. It’s ideal for surface preparation when an even and compacted foundation is required.
This compactor is very versatile. It has a 196 cc engine which gives it ample power to compact sand, gravel, soil and small aggregates. It can be used on patios, block paving, driveways, paths and tarmacked areas. The centrifugal force impact is an impressive 11000N.
It works to a depth of 250 mm and travels at 25 m / min. This makes it fairly efficient across large areas.
Despite the power and its suitability for commercial areas, steps have been taken to ensure this compactor plate is easy to use. It has a heavy duty vibration damper system which can make it more comfortable to use, while there’s transport wheels that allow it to be manoeuvred into tight spaces. The foldable hinged handle ensures you’ve got more options when it comes to storage.
One of the stand out features of this model is its large fuel tank. This allows for longer operation times, so it’s ideal if you’ve got a big job to get done in one sitting. The durable steel frame and base plate ensure it’s long lasting.
There aren’t many drawbacks to this model. Some users have reported difficulty starting, although I didn’t find this to be the case. It’s very noisy, so this is worth bearing in mind if you’re using it in close proximity to homes and businesses.
Overall, this compactor plate is a great choice if you’re after a budget-friendly machine that can handle medium-duty compaction work. It has a decent build quality, durability and compaction force, although it may not be suitable for very heavy duty use.
Scores:
- Ease of Use
- Power
- Manoeuvrability
- Value for Money
- Overall
One of the more affordable compactor plates I’ve tested, the Wolf Petrol Wacker Compactor Plate is a great choice for DIY enthusiasts or those working in the construction industry. It’s ideal for surface preparation when an even and compacted foundation is required.
This compactor is very versatile. It has a 196 cc engine which gives it ample power to compact sand, gravel, soil and small aggregates. It can be used on patios, block paving, driveways, paths and tarmacked areas. The centrifugal force impact is an impressive 11000N.
It works to a depth of 250 mm and travels at 25 m / min. This makes it fairly efficient across large areas.
Despite the power and its suitability for commercial areas, steps have been taken to ensure this compactor plate is easy to use. It has a heavy duty vibration damper system which can make it more comfortable to use, while there’s transport wheels that allow it to be manoeuvred into tight spaces. The foldable hinged handle ensures you’ve got more options when it comes to storage.
One of the stand out features of this model is its large fuel tank. This allows for longer operation times, so it’s ideal if you’ve got a big job to get done in one sitting. The durable steel frame and base plate ensure it’s long lasting.
There aren’t many drawbacks to this model. Some users have reported difficulty starting, although I didn’t find this to be the case. It’s very noisy, so this is worth bearing in mind if you’re using it in close proximity to homes and businesses.
Overall, this compactor plate is a great choice if you’re after a budget-friendly machine that can handle medium-duty compaction work. It has a decent build quality, durability and compaction force, although it may not be suitable for very heavy duty use.
Features:
- Power Source
- Petrol
- Weight
- 61 kg
- Horsepower
- 5.5 hp
Pros
- Affordable so a good choice for DIY enthusiasts who don’t want to call in professional help
- Good vibration and compactor force makes it ideal for medium duty work
- Large fuel tank allows for a long operating time
- Foldable handlebar ensure it’s easy to transport and manoeuvre
Cons
- Runs very noisily
The Belle PCX Heavy Duty Combination Wacker Plate Compactor has been designed for large outdoor settings, and it’s a great choice for professional environments.
It’s a heavyweight machine with a serious 4 HP engine. The price tag means it may not appeal to domestic users, and instead is a great choice for heavy duty projects.
The shortened base plate allows this model to run with improved compaction and manoeuvrability, while the finish is vastly superior to other models. It runs with 12500 N centrifugal force and a 20 m / min travel speed.
At 81 kg, this is a heavy duty (and heavy!) machine. It has a foldable mounted guide handle which offers the user manoeuvrability. This can also be lowered under obstructions if needed.
It’s clearly been designed with quality and durability in mind (as you’d expect, given the price). The vibration bearings have been life lubricated, while the entire construction is incredibly robust. It has a thick grip to ensure vibration on the user is minimal.
All things considered, this is one of the best compactor plates if you’re after sheer power and weight. While it may be too large and bulky for domestic settings, it’s a great option for professional environments.
Scores:
- Ease of Use
- Power
- Manoeuvrability
- Value for Money
- Overall
The Belle PCX Heavy Duty Combination Wacker Plate Compactor has been designed for large outdoor settings, and it’s a great choice for professional environments.
It’s a heavyweight machine with a serious 4 HP engine. The price tag means it may not appeal to domestic users, and instead is a great choice for heavy duty projects.
The shortened base plate allows this model to run with improved compaction and manoeuvrability, while the finish is vastly superior to other models. It runs with 12500 N centrifugal force and a 20 m / min travel speed.
At 81 kg, this is a heavy duty (and heavy!) machine. It has a foldable mounted guide handle which offers the user manoeuvrability. This can also be lowered under obstructions if needed.
It’s clearly been designed with quality and durability in mind (as you’d expect, given the price). The vibration bearings have been life lubricated, while the entire construction is incredibly robust. It has a thick grip to ensure vibration on the user is minimal.
All things considered, this is one of the best compactor plates if you’re after sheer power and weight. While it may be too large and bulky for domestic settings, it’s a great option for professional environments.
Features:
- Power Source
- Petrol
- Weight
- 81 kg
- Horsepower
- 4 hp
Pros
- Shortened base plate allows the user to work with improved speed and frequency
- Large capacity water tank is built into the protective frame
- Robust and durable with a great built quality
- Good vibration and compaction force makes this suitable for heavy duty work
- Easy to start and operate, even for beginners
Cons
- May be too large and bulky for domestic settings
- Relatively expensive compared to some of its competitors
Compare Product Features Here
Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature that's most important to you.
- Our score
- Power Source
- Weight
- Horsepower
-
- Power SourceCorded Electric
- Weight26 kg
- Horsepower1.05 hp
-
- Power SourcePetrol
- Weight53 kg
- Horsepower2.8 hp
-
- Power SourcePetrol
- Weight63 kg
- Horsepower5.5 hp
-
- Power SourcePetrol
- Weight61 kg
- Horsepower5.5 hp
-
- Power SourcePetrol
- Weight81 kg
- Horsepower4 hp
Tips for Buying a Wacker Compactor Plate
- The most important thing to think about is whether you want an electric or petrol powered compactor. Electric compactors are for smaller scale jobs, such as those involving patio soil mixtures where there’s not such a need for power. Petrol powered wacker plates are better suited to commercial jobs
- Think about the material you are compacting. Heavy duty wacker plates are better suited to materials such as asphalt, while lighter ones can be used to compact soil or clay
- The size of the machine is also important. If you’re working on a narrow pathway, a narrower model is better. Consider both the width and length of the plates
- The vibration of a compactor plate can make using them uncomfortable if the handles aren’t adequately protected. Look for a machine with handle grips to minimise vibration
Why You Can Trust DIY Garden
At DIY Garden, we believe your trust is earned through our knowledge and transparency. Our team of experts has over 75 years collective experience in the gardening and DIY space. Since the website’s creation in 2016 we’ve tested over 275 products, ensuring our recommendations are based on real experience. We’re open about what we’ve tried and what we’ve researched, and this is clearly labelled in our product reviews. Every year, we revisit and update our suggestions to include worthy new additions to the market. Our aim is to give you straightforward, honest, and helpful recommendations, so you can confidently choose the best tools and equipment for your projects.
How To Choose The Best Wacker Compactor Plate
What are compactor plates used for?
Compactor plates are tools used to compact certain materials, usually either soil or gravel. They compact the material which makes the ground stable and firm, essential if you’re going to be laying foundations or pavings.
They can also be used for smaller projects, such as filling potholes or other holes in driveways or roads. They pack down the dirt, meaning another material can be laid on top.
While compactor plates are most commonly seen on building sites, they are also used for patios, driveways and in other domestic settings.
How do compactor plates work?
Compactor plates work using a powerful vibrating mechanism. This emits a high force and frequency on the material, which helps it compact.
As the name suggests, compactor plates have heavy plates which are powered by a hydraulic system. This produces force to drive the plates forwards and backwards with a high vibration frequency. It moves over the material, compacting it and causing it to become denser.
You shouldn’t need to push a compactor plate too hard, as the vibrations will do the work. However, you will need to guide it over the material in the right direction.
Different Types of Wacker Plates
There’s a few different types of wacker compactor plates.
The first is a reversible plate compactor. This is a compactor plate that has the ability to move forward, backwards and in different directions. These plates are perfect for compacting soil, gravel, sand and asphalt.
Single plate compactors have, as the name suggests, just one single plate. This vibrates with a high frequency, which moves the soil particles closer together.
Hydraulic plate compactors have a hydraulic motor that powers the process. They are often used for the compaction of foundations and in trench work.
Heavy duty plate compactors are used for large contract work in the construction industry. They are for heavy duty tasks, and often used in commercial areas.
Wacker Compactor Plate FAQs
Is it worth buying a compactor plate?
For those who work in the construction or gardening industry, it can definitely be worth buying a wacker plate. These are powerful tools that can be used to compact soil, gravel and other materials. They make the ground more stable and firm, which is essential if you’re going to be laying down foundation or paving.
Having said that, wacker plates can be expensive. But for those who enjoy DIY or are planning on redoing their lawn, driveway or patio and would like to do as much as possible without professional help, a compactor plate can be a very good investment.
Do you push or pull a wacker plate?
Typically, you would push a wacker plate. There’s a handlebar at the back that can be used to push the tool forward.
They are designed to be used in strips, you’ll simply need to direct the plate over the area. The machine can then be turned around and moved along to another strip.
Can I use a wacker plate on soil?
Yes, you can use a wacker plate on soil. In fact, this is one of the most common uses for a wacker plate. It can help to eliminate air pockets and make the soil more stable, allowing you to lay patio tiles or pavers on top.
What size wacker plate do I need for block paving?
This depends on the size of the area you are working on. For smaller spaces, such as narrow pathways or small patios, you’ll only need a small wacker plate – around 300 mm in width.
For larger areas like driveways or large patios, you should look for a wacker plate over 500 mm wide.
You May Be Interested In These Other Specialist Tool Reviews
-
The Best Pallet Trucks
Harry DunctonUpdated September 27, 2023
-
The Best Soldering Stations
Harry DunctonUpdated September 18, 2023
-
The Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Harry DunctonUpdated September 28, 2023
-
The Best Fire Extinguishers
Harry DunctonUpdated September 28, 2023
-
The Best Wood Lathes
Harry DunctonUpdated August 18, 2023
-
The Best Plug In Timers
Harry DunctonUpdated September 28, 2023
-
The Best Soldering Irons
Harry DunctonUpdated September 20, 2023
-
The Best Paddle Mixers
Harry DunctonUpdated September 14, 2023
-
The Best Cement Mixers
Harry DunctonUpdated August 28, 2023
-
The Best Laser Engravers & CNC Routers
Harry DunctonUpdated September 18, 2023
-
The Best MIG, TIG and MMA Welding Machines
Harry DunctonUpdated September 20, 2023
-
The Best Air Compressors
Harry DunctonUpdated September 19, 2023
-
The Best Home Weather Stations
Clive HarrisUpdated September 28, 2023
