Stump grinders come in several sizes and configurations. The right machine for your job depends on stump size, yard access, and terrain. Here's what each type is used for.

1. Handlebar / Hand-Guided Grinders

Best for: Very small stumps (under 12"), tight spaces, raised beds

These are the smallest category—think chainsaw-sized equipment with a grinding disc on the end. They fit through any gate and can work in spaces no larger machine could reach. However, they're slow on anything larger than a 12-inch stump and tire the operator quickly. Used primarily for small decorative tree stumps and situations with extreme access constraints.

2. Walk-Behind Grinders (Most Common for Residential)

Best for: Most residential stumps (12"–36"), standard yard access

The workhorses of the industry. Self-propelled or manually pushed, these machines have a 13–25 HP engine and a cutting wheel 8–12 inches in diameter. They fit through a standard 36-inch gate, handle most residential stumps efficiently, and are what you'll see on the vast majority of residential jobs. Weight: 500–1,000 lbs.

3. Track-Mounted Grinders

Best for: Sloped terrain, soft/wet ground, stumps in difficult positions

Track grinders move on rubber tracks (like a mini-excavator) instead of wheels, giving them traction on slopes and soft soil where wheeled machines would sink or slide. They're typically 15–30 HP. Cost slightly more to operate but are invaluable on hillside properties. Width: typically 34–48 inches.

4. Self-Propelled Riding Grinders

Best for: Large stumps (36"–60"), high-volume commercial work

These are the big guns—25–50 HP, operator-ridden, cutting wheels 14–18 inches in diameter. They make short work of stumps that would take a walk-behind machine 2–3x as long. Not practical in small residential yards due to size and weight, but ideal for large stumps or properties with multiple large-diameter stumps.

5. Tow-Behind / Contractor Grinders

Best for: Commercial land clearing, very large stumps (60"+)

Towed by a truck, these machines can have 50–100 HP and handle stumps that would be impractical for any other equipment. Overkill for typical residential use but necessary for land clearing and commercial applications.

What Equipment Will Your Contractor Use?

For a standard residential stump in an open yard: almost certainly a walk-behind grinder. For a tight-access or sloped job: likely a track grinder. For a very large stump (48"+): possibly a riding grinder. When you upload photos for a quote, the contractor will select the appropriate equipment before scheduling.