Both post hole diggers and augers have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to digging holes for fencing, decking, and other construction projects. Here is a comparison of the key factors to consider when choosing between these two hole-digging tools.
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Ease of Use
Post hole diggers are manually operated tools that rely on the user’s strength and effort to dig holes. They come in different shapes and sizes, with the most common type being the drop head post hole digger that uses two handles and pivot action to scoop out dirt. Post hole diggers require more physical exertion compared to power augers but are relatively simple to use. Their operation only involves inserting the heads into the ground, scooping out dirt, and removing loosened soil. This makes them a good option for those who want a straightforward and inexpensive tool to dig a few quick holes.
Augers, on the other hand, operate using power from gas engines or electric motors. They are attached to drill bits that bore into the ground in a rotating, screwing motion. This automated mechanism of augers allows digging holes with much less effort compared to manual post hole diggers. However, augers have more complex parts and controls that require proper learning and experience to operate safely. Setting up and stabilizing the auger also takes more time and work compared to just grabbing a post hole digger and starting to dig.
Digging Capability
When it comes to digging power, gas and electric powered augers are vastly superior to manual post hole diggers. Augers can drill into even hardened ground and dig deeper holes much quicker. Their mechanical power and sharp drill bits make easy work of most soil conditions. Post hole diggers rely solely on human power, so the digging depth and speed are limited, especially in dense or rocky ground. Attempting to power through tough conditions with post hole diggers can be exhausting.
That said, post hole diggers perform fine for softer soils and shallow holes typically needed for fence posts and decks. They can dig holes around 1-3 feet deep and 6-12 inches wide, meeting requirements for basic home projects. But for digging numerous holes deeper than 2 feet, large diameter holes for structural posts, or holes in hardened soil, an auger is the better choice.
Portability
One major advantage of manual post hole diggers is their light weight and compact size. Standard models are around 3 feet long and weigh less than 10 pounds. This makes them extremely easy to transport and maneuver, even in confined spaces or down slopes. Their simplicity also allows digging holes in any location without setup or stabilization.
In contrast, power augers, especially gas-powered ones, are much bulkier and heavier. Handheld gas augers can weigh over 60 pounds, while larger tractor mounted models weigh hundreds of pounds. This makes moving augers between job sites and positioning them over each hole location more difficult. The stabilization methods and safety precautions required when operating power augers also reduce their mobility compared to post hole diggers.
Cost
Post hole diggers provide a very cost-effective method for digging holes, with basic models available for under $50. This affordable price makes them accessible to anyone doing casual DIY projects. In contrast, power augers range from $100 for a handheld model up to several thousand dollars for heavy duty, tractor mounted augers. The fuel and maintenance costs of gasoline powered augers adds to their long term expenses as well.
Hole Shape
The holes created by manual post hole diggers and augers have some shape differences. Post hole diggers move soil out of the hole through a scooping action, leaving a narrower, v-shaped hole. Augers drill out soil in a spiral around their bit, creating a wider, cylindrical hole. The shape that best suits a project depends on the type of posts or anchors being installed.
For square wood fence posts, the narrow, tapered holes from post hole diggers allow the dirt to grip the posts better once installed. But for larger round poles or cylindrical anchors, the full width cylindrical holes bored by augers provide a better fit.
Speed
Augers are significantly faster at digging holes than manual post hole diggers. Small power augers can dig a 2 foot deep, 6 inch wide hole in around 10 seconds. Larger tractor mounted augers can dig much wider and deeper holes in under a minute. Digging the same size hole with post hole diggers would take a couple minutes or longer, depending on the soil conditions.
The speed difference is especially noticeable when digging multiple holes for fence lines or deck supports. An auger can speed up these repetitive hole digging projects tremendously compared to post hole diggers. Even just a few holes can be dug much quicker with an auger.
Noise and Vibration
One of the downsides of power augers is the loud noise and vibration during operation from the motor and drilling action. This can disturb neighbors if working near property lines. The constant noise and vibration also make augers more difficult and annoying for the operator to use over extended periods.
Post hole diggers are manually powered, so they operate with minimal noise and vibration. The only sounds are the shovels sliding into the earth and dirt being tossed to the side. This quiet operation of post hole diggers makes them preferable for projects that require minimal disturbance to others.
Conclusion
For digging a few shallow holes in standard soils, post hole diggers provide a simple, inexpensive, and quiet option. But when digging numerous deeper holes, large diameter holes, or holes in hard ground, gas or electric augers are a clear choice for their superior power and drilling speed.
Consider the specific soil conditions, number of holes, needed hole size and depth, noise restrictions, and mobility requirements for a project. This will help determine whether the simplicity and lower cost of post hole diggers is suitable, or if the power and efficiency of an auger is worth the higher price tag.