Belt-driven blowers are typically quieter than direct-drive blowers and provide more control over the blower fans' speed and airflow. These blowers come with a drive package that includes a motor, sheaves, belts, and bushings.

Belt-drive blowers without drive do not come with a drive package, so the user must provide the motor and other drive components. Belt-drive blowers are typically quieter and provide more control over the blower speed and airflow than direct-drive blowers.

Direct-drive blowers with drive feature a blower wheel that is mounted directly onto the shaft of the included motor. This reduces friction and improves efficiency compared to a belt-drive fan. Direct-drive blowers have fewer moving parts and typically require less maintenance than belt-drive blowers.