Sun Joe AJ805E 15 in Electric Dethatcher with Scarifier Reel Review

Our Verdict

Capable machine, commonly bought for a problem the buyer does not have. Dethatching is warranted when the thatch layer reaches roughly an inch, and the test costs nothing: slice a wedge out of the turf and measure the spongy brown layer between green growth and soil. Most lawns come in well under that, which is why we tell readers not to dethatch as a ritual — and specifically not going into winter, when core aeration handles genuine thatch without leaving turf torn open before dormancy. If you have measured an inch, this does the job: two reels let you choose spring tines for raking thatch or the scarifier for cutting into it, the bag saves the worst of the cleanup, and corded means consistent power. Three and a half stars — the deduction is for how often this category is bought on suspicion rather than measurement. Do the wedge test first; if it is thin, spend the money on core aeration instead.