Review of the best composters: technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages

Compost is an organic fertilizer often made at home by purchasing a composter—a specially designed device for processing organic matter. The result is a high-quality nutrient for a relatively low cost. A wide range of composters are available today.

Best composter rating table

A composter is a structure for producing natural fertilizer. There are many models on the market, but not all of them are popular. We've compiled a list of the most popular composting containers in the table below:

How to choose a composter?

A garden composter is a container with holes for air circulation. Organic matter is placed in the cavity to decompose and create fertilizer. It's a great alternative to a compost bin and is more attractive. It's easy to use, and the fertilizer is created quickly.

Make your choice based on several criteria:

• Volume. Models range from 100 to 2,500 liters. A 30-acre garden requires a 1,500-2,000 liter unit. For a 500-acre garden, 350 liters is sufficient. Larger containers take a long time to decompose. If your goal is to obtain fertilizer as quickly as possible, it's recommended to purchase smaller units.
• Size. Composters come in sizes ranging from 500x500x500 mm to 2500x1000x1000 mm. When making your decision, consider the size of your plot and accessibility.
• Bottom. The lack of a section is a good solution, as the box can be easily moved aside when spreading the finished compost around the garden, clearing the way to the contents. The bottom facilitates transporting the fertilizer.

Top manufacturers

There are many models from various brands on the market. The following have proven themselves to be the best:

• Otto Graf GmbH. A German company producing high-quality products. Volumes vary. Some containers have unique designs and can be used as landscape elements.
• Al – Ko. The company originates from Germany. The quality of its raw materials and assembly is high. The company's main goal is to improve the quality of life for its consumers.
• Biolan. A Finnish family-run company. Their products feature a thermometer and an accelerated fertilizer ripening function.
• Piteco. A domestic brand. Russian devices comply with international standards.
• Composters Prosperplast. The Poles, who recently opened production, are constantly improving their designs and producing organic waste boxes with a wide range of functionality.
• Volnusha. Under this brand, you can buy affordable, high-quality boxes of various sizes. The company is registered in Russia.

There are also models from lesser-known companies on the market, but their quality is not inferior to leading brands.

Review of the best composters

To help make your selection easier, we've compiled a ranking of the best composters, according to gardeners and vegetable growers. All models have been tested in real-life situations.

1Garantia Thermo-King (626002) 600

Main characteristics:

• volume – 600 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use;

• height – 104 cm;
• weight – 16.8 kg;
• there is no bottom.

The manufacturer claims that the box is made of thermal tape, but if you look at the markings on the structure, it turns out that ordinary polyethylene was used for production.

2Prosperplast IKEV630C-S411 630

Main characteristics:

• volume – 630 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use;

• height – 107 cm;
• weight – 10.5 kg;
• there is no bottom.

The company's primary goal is to provide consumers with a functional and user-friendly product. This manufacturer's composters are constantly being improved.

3Volnusha 1000

Main characteristics:

• volume – 1000 l;
• material – plastic;
• can be used at any time of the year;

• height – 107 cm;
• weight – 16 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

The box is made of plastic, which has increased frost resistance. It is also environmentally friendly and does not harm the environment.

4Master Garden 1200

Main characteristics:

• volume – 1200 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use;

• the bottom is missing;
• height – 140 cm;
• weight – 19 kg.

The composter is made of frost-resistant material. When assembled, the box can withstand temperatures down to -40 degrees Celsius. However, at these temperatures, avoid mechanical shock to prevent deformation of the composter.

5Prosperplast IKL380C-S411 320

Main characteristics:

• volume – 320 l;
• material – plastic;
• There is no information about year-round use;

• height – 82.6 cm;
• weight – 5.7 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

Online stores often label the product as "plain packaging." This means the product is shipped wrapped in plastic.

6Master Garden 800

Main characteristics:

• volume – 800 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use;

• height – 84 cm;
• weight – 14.5 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

The material is sun- and water-resistant, and is impervious to chemicals. Insects and pests do not damage the structure.

7Garantia Eco-King 400

Main characteristics:

• volume – 400 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use is permitted;

• height – 83 cm;
• weight – 8 kg;
• there is no bottom.

The model has a double-sided lid, allowing the finished fertilizer to be unloaded from either side.

8Prosperplast Compothermo IKB340-G851 340

Main characteristics:

• volume – 340 l;
• material – plastic;
• there is no information on year-round use;

• height – 87 cm;
• weight – 4.6 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

For ease of use, the Polish manufacturer has equipped its product with a handle for closing the lid.

9Prosperplast IKEV420C-S411

Main characteristics:

• volume – 420 l;
• material – plastic;
• There is no information about year-round use;

• height – 80 cm;
• weight – 6.6 kg;
• there is no bottom.

The composter is made of polypropylene, which maintains its properties for a long time. The structure has a service life of approximately 50 years.

Budget models

Not everyone is willing to shell out a hefty sum for a plastic box. For these buyers, manufacturers offer affordable models that fully fulfill their intended purpose. They all share the same compact design and low height.

1Master Garden 600

Main characteristics:

• volume – 600 l;
• material – plastic;
• it can be used at any time of the year;

• height – 70 cm;
• weight – 10.5 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

Due to its size, composters are often used as flower beds. Some people add soil on top of the organic matter and grow crops that thrive in such soil.

2Piteco K1130 300

Main characteristics:

• volume – 300 l;
• material – plastic;
• can be used all year round;

• height – 80 cm;
• weight – 6 kg;
• there is no bottom.

It is recommended to install the box in a location free from strong winds. Inclement weather may slightly affect its appearance.

3Piteco K2130 300

Main characteristics:

• volume – 300 l;
• material – plastic;
• There is no information about year-round use;

• height – 80 cm;
• weight – 5.3 kg;
• the bottom is missing.

The color is bright and rich. Some gardeners use the container to create beautiful arrangements. For example, the box beautifully highlights the yellow hue of tulips.

4KETER Eco Composter 320

Main characteristics:

• volume – 320 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use is permitted;

• height – 75 cm;
• weight – 4.9 kg;
• there is no bottom.

To ensure the structure can showcase its strengths, install it correctly. On a level surface, the box will not wobble and will support its stated volume.

Dear composters

Some home gardeners grow fruits and vegetables not only for themselves but also for sale. Others even cultivate plants. These people prefer large, high-quality composters. These units are expensive.

1Prosperplast Module 1600

Main characteristics:

• volume – 1600 l;
• material – plastic;
• year-round use;

• there is no bottom;
• height – 82.6 cm;
• weight – 18.6 kg.

Opening the lid doesn't require physical force. The part doesn't slam on windy days.

2Prosperplast IKB900-G851 900

Main characteristics:

• volume – 900 l;
• material – plastic;
• can be used all year round;

• height – 128 cm;
• weight – 11.5 kg;
• there is no bottom.

The tank helps produce fertilizer quickly. This is due to the thermos effect. For example, grass from 7 acres is ready in 10 days. In summer, humus forms more quickly.

Product comparison table

Choosing a composter isn't difficult, but it can be overwhelming for beginners. To make the selection process easier, we recommend comparing the key product features:

User rating

Based on readers' votes (Like/Dislike).

Resume

All popular composters are made of plastic. When deciding which model to buy, consider these secondary factors:

• Possibility of operation all year round. Even if you only prepare fertilizer on warm days, it's best to choose a universal option. It's possible that frost will strike early in the fall and damage the structure if it can't withstand the cold.
  Some manufacturers don't specify the weather conditions in which their products can be used. It's best not to take any chances.
• Color. Consider more than just the aesthetics. Black attracts sunlight, causing the container to heat up quickly, accelerating the process of compost formation.
• Availability of a lid. The protection helps create a thermos effect inside the tank. In this environment, plant and food waste decomposes faster.

A composter is a structure that allows you to obtain valuable fertilizer. You can make your own container, but buying a ready-made one is more practical, as it lasts longer, and some models can speed up the composting process. There are many selection criteria. Also, consider user reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions