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Sun Joe SPX3000 vs Kärcher K1700 - The Differences
Further down the page, you'll find some explanations regarding the key similarities and differences between the Kärcher K1700 and the Sun Joe SPX3000.
But before checking out explanations regarding their power, design, and features here's a table that summarizes the main pros of each of these 2 pressure washers:
| Kärcher K1700 | Sun Joe SPX3000 |
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Power Comparison
- Fuel: Both units are corded electric washers, delivering continuous power for efficient cleaning sessions, eliminating the need for frequent refueling or battery changes.
- Engine & Pump: Utilizing axial-type pumps, both the Kärcher K1700 and the Sun Joe SPX3000 are recognized for their lightweight construction and straightforward operation. N-COR is responsible for producing the pump of the latter. The Kärcher K1700's pump is powered by a 14-amp motor, while the Sun Joe SPX3000 utilizes a 13-amp motor. Both motors are of the universal type.
The following charts are provided to show you at a glance how the main specs of the Karcher K1700 compare to the Sun Joe SPX3000.
Note: Karcher K1700 is rated per CETA testing standards, whereas Sun Joe SPX3000 is rated per PWMA standards.
- Pressure: With a maximum reachable pressure of 2030 PSI, the Sun Joe SPX3000 provides a much higher force for effectively blasting away dirt and grime, surpassing the 1700 PSI of the Kärcher K1700.
- Water Flow: Featuring the same maximum water flow rate of up to 1.2 gallons per minute (GPM), both units offer uniform rinsing power. This ensures dependable performance for various cleaning applications.
- Cleaning Power: With its 2436 C.U., the Sun Joe SPX3000 boasts substantially greater overall cleaning efficiency than the Kärcher K1700 with its 2040 C.U.
Design Comparison
- Design: With a focus on portability, both units boast a compact design, enabling users to conveniently carry them for various cleaning needs.
- Weight: With a weight of 20.7 lbs, the K1700 is somewhat lighter than the 24.3 lbs of the SPX3000, making it more convenient for users to transport and maneuver during use.
- Maneuverability: With the addition of wheels, both products enjoy improved maneuverability. Featuring a handle, both products aim to improve your grip, providing enhanced comfort and control during maneuvering or transportation.
Feature Comparison
- Soap Addition: Both washers enable users to mix chemical detergent solutions with the water, enhancing their cleaning performance. For that, the Sun Joe SPX3000 has an advantage over the Kärcher K1700. The latter offers a single soap tank, whereas the former benefits from a dual soap tank system that lets you easily store and use 2 different cleaning solutions.
- Trigger Gun & Wand: Included with both units is a fairly standard ergonomic trigger gun and a classic wand.
- Nozzles: Both pressure washers come with 15° and soap nozzles, but the nozzle similarities stop here. The Kärcher K1700 adds a turbo nozzle, while the Sun Joe SPX3000's set includes 0°, 25°, and 40° nozzles.
- Reach: Equipped with a 20 ft high-pressure hose each, both units provide identical freedom of movement around the unit upon arrival. As both units feature a 35 ft power cord, their maximum allowable placement from an electrical outlet is the same.
- Storage: Both the K1700 and SPX3000 feature convenient onboard storage, ensuring that your accessories are always within reach. Both washers come equipped with a set of hooks, ensuring tidy storage for their high-pressure hoses.
- Accessories: In addition to the typical accessories, the Sun Joe SPX3000 also includes a garden hose adapter.
TL;DR
| Kärcher K1700 | Sun Joe SPX3000 |
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| Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) | Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) |
The review does not address the tendency for all upright electric pressure washers to fall over and break the (usually) plastic hose fittings. The little footie in the front is not enough. The lay-out of the Karcher here looks like a big improvement. I have a very nice Karcher upright model after the front foot was added and the foot itself broke off right away. Then I had to stock hand-fulls of the fittings. Now I strap the washer to an actual hand truck just to keep it upright. My next pressure washer will have four wheels or metal hose fittings.