Best pressure washers for concrete and driveways
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Simpson MegaShot MS60773 3300 PSI gas pressure washer is the top pick for cleaning concrete driveways—it delivers exceptional cleaning power and durability for the price.
If you want a quieter gas alternative with similar performance, choose the Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash; for a corded electric option that handles most driveway stains without the fumes or maintenance, the Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless model is your best bet.
Concrete driveways take a beating: oil drips, tire marks, mildew, and embedded dirt that a garden hose just can’t budge. A pressure washer with enough punch—typically 2,300 PSI or higher—can strip years of grime in minutes. But not every washer is built for concrete. You need a machine that moves ample water (GPM) and has a durable pump, plus a wand or turbo nozzle that lets you adjust the spray pattern to avoid etching the surface. Gas-powered models offer the raw power and mobility for large or heavily soiled driveways, while high-performance electric machines are lighter, quieter, and require less maintenance. The right choice depends on the size of your driveway and how often you clean. Below we break down the top three pressure washers that consistently earn praise from owners and professional cleaners for concrete work, with honest trade-offs for each.
Simpson MegaShot MS60773 3300 PSI
The do-it-all default for tough concrete
4.7out of 5The Simpson MegaShot 3300 PSI is the workhorse that owners trust year after year. Its reliable Honda engine and AAA pump deliver consistent pressure for even the most embedded oil stains and old dirt. The one minor downside is the weight and noise—it’s not a machine you want to carry up stairs.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash
The runner-up with a built-in hose reel
4.4out of 5The Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash is a close second, offering almost the same cleaning power as the Simpson but with clever conveniences like a hose reel and a more stable wheelbase. The pump is well-protected against freezing, but some owners report the wand’s quick-connect fitting can be finicky.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →
Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer
The quiet electric that still packs a punch
4.3out of 5The Ryobi 2300 PSI brushless electric pressure washer is a rare find: it’s light enough to carry one-handed yet capable of stripping most driveway grime. The brushless motor makes it quieter than gas models and virtually maintenance-free. Just know that the small wheels and short hose make it a chore to cover a large area without moving the machine.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Simpson MegaShot MS60773 3300 PSI | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Anyone with a large or heavily stained concrete driveway who wants a residential gas machi | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | Homeowners who want a mid-priced gas washer with built-in storage convenience and don̵ | Check price → |
| Best value | Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Homeowners with a medium-sized driveway who prefer electric convenience, low noise, and mi | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Simpson MegaShot MS60773 3300 PSI: The do-it-all default for tough concrete
Best overallThe Simpson MegaShot 3300 PSI is the workhorse that owners trust year after year. Its reliable Honda engine and AAA pump deliver consistent pressure for even the most embedded oil stains and old dirt. The one minor downside is the weight and noise—it’s not a machine you want to carry up stairs.
Pros
- Honda engine is famously dependable and easy to service
- High PSI and GPM combo cleans concrete quickly without needing chemicals
- Durable steel frame and pneumatic tires roll smoothly over rough pavement
- Comes with a variable-pressure spray wand for adjusting intensity
Cons
- Heavy and bulky to store or transport
- Engine is loud—you’ll want hearing protection
- Smaller fuel tank means occasional refills on long cleanings
Who it’s for
Anyone with a large or heavily stained concrete driveway who wants a residential gas machine that performs like a commercial unit.Who should skip it
You need a lightweight, compact washer for occasional use or have noise restrictions in your neighborhood.2. Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash: The runner-up with a built-in hose reel
Runner-upThe Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash is a close second, offering almost the same cleaning power as the Simpson but with clever conveniences like a hose reel and a more stable wheelbase. The pump is well-protected against freezing, but some owners report the wand’s quick-connect fitting can be finicky.
Pros
- Integrated hose reel keeps the driveway tidy and makes setup faster
- Lower vibration and slightly quieter than many comparable gas washers
- Large, flat-free tires handle uneven concrete without tipping
- Good detergent tank with a visible level window
Cons
- Hose can kink if not properly wound on the reel
- Some users have experienced issues with the wand fitting coming loose mid-use
- Not as widely available as Simpson for replacement parts
Who it’s for
Homeowners who want a mid-priced gas washer with built-in storage convenience and don’t mind a slightly shorter hose for large driveways.Who should skip it
You want the absolute longest warranty or the lightest gas machine available.3. Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer: The quiet electric that still packs a punch
Best valueThe Ryobi 2300 PSI brushless electric pressure washer is a rare find: it’s light enough to carry one-handed yet capable of stripping most driveway grime. The brushless motor makes it quieter than gas models and virtually maintenance-free. Just know that the small wheels and short hose make it a chore to cover a large area without moving the machine.
Pros
- Brushless motor is more efficient and lasts longer than brushed electrics
- Very quiet—you can hold a conversation while running it
- Comes with a turbo nozzle that intensifies the stream for stubborn concrete stains
- Light enough to haul up stairs or into a truck bed
Cons
- Lower GPM than gas models, so cleaning large driveways takes longer
- Short hose and small wheels require frequent repositioning
- Not as effective on heavy oil or grease stains without a surface cleaner attachment
Who it’s for
Homeowners with a medium-sized driveway who prefer electric convenience, low noise, and minimal maintenance.Who should skip it
You have a very long or heavily oil-stained driveway—you’ll be better served by a gas model.Best for specific needs
Best for large or heavily stained driveways
If your concrete is covered in years of embedded dirt, oil, or moss, you need raw pressure and water volume. The Simpson MegaShot’s 3300 PSI and strong Honda engine will cut through that crud faster than any other residential model we’ve researched. Owners consistently report being able to clean a two-car driveway in under an hour without pre-treating. Our pick: Simpson MegaShot MS60773 3300 PSI.
Best for occasional use on medium driveways
For the homeowner who washes their driveway a couple of times a year and doesn’t want to fuss with fuel or oil changes, the Ryobi 2300 brushless electric is the smart choice. It’s affordable to run, stores easily in a garage cabinet, and still delivers enough pressure to handle mildew and light stains with a turbo nozzle. Just budget a bit more time than you would with a gas washer. Our pick: Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer.
Best for those who value convenience and storage
A built-in hose reel and a tank that won’t tip over make the Generac 3100 SpeedWash the most user-friendly gas option for driveways. You don’t have to wrestle with a coiled hose after every use, and the sturdy cart design lets you roll it around without it swaying. It’s a happy medium between raw power and everyday practicality. Our pick: Generac 3100 PSI SpeedWash.
Our verdict
For most people with concrete driveways, the Simpson MegaShot 3300 PSI is the clear winner—it’s powerful, reliable, and the first machine that professional cleaners recommend to homeowners. If you’d rather skip the gas engine maintenance or have a smaller driveway, the Ryobi 2300 brushless electric does an admirable job for a fraction of the hassle. And if you want gas power but hate untangling hoses, the Generac 3100 SpeedWash earns its place with thoughtful design. Think about your driveway size, how often you clean, and how much noise your neighbors can tolerate—then pick the washer that fits your routine.
Frequently asked questions
What PSI do I need to clean concrete?
Around 3,000 PSI or more makes quick work of dirty concrete and driveways, which is why gas units excel here, though a strong electric machine near 2,300 PSI still cleans concrete well with a little more time. Flow (GPM) speeds rinsing, so a higher-flow machine finishes large flat areas faster.
Do I need a surface cleaner for concrete?
It is the single best upgrade for flat concrete. A surface cleaner houses spinning spray jets under a shroud, cleaning a wide path evenly and far faster than a wand, with no zebra-striping. For driveways, patios, and sidewalks it turns an all-day chore into a quick pass.
Can a pressure washer damage concrete?
Yes, if you use a narrow tip up close or linger in one spot, you can etch or gouge the surface and leave wand marks. Keep the spray moving, use a surface cleaner or a wider nozzle for big areas, and test an inconspicuous spot first, especially on older or stamped concrete.
What nozzle is best for concrete with a wand?
For spot cleaning concrete a 15-degree (yellow) or 25-degree (green) tip works well, with the 0-degree (red) reserved for tiny stubborn stains at a careful distance. For large flat areas, skip the wand tips and use a surface cleaner for speed and an even finish.
Should I use detergent on concrete?
For oil stains, mildew, and ground-in grime, a concrete or degreaser detergent applied through a soap nozzle, left to dwell, then rinsed makes a big difference and reduces how much pressure you need. Avoid harsh generic soaps that can discolor or leave residue on the surface.