I bought an aldi Ferrex one MF, its a knock off of an Echo. Great power, but is bloody heavy - but it has a metal mulching blade
This is one issue of many cheapies - weight. Might seem fine for 2 mins, but lug it around for 20 and your sore
Now having used one, I suggest you try to track down a late 90s ryobi vac - 31cc Ryan engine, easy switch between vac and blow