For many homeowners, maintaining a garden that’s both aesthetically pleasing and free from unwanted growth is an ongoing struggle. The constant battle to keep flowers and vegetables thriving, while simultaneously keeping verges and pathways clear of grass, can be overwhelming. And then there’s the age-old nemesis: weeds. These resilient invaders can quickly turn a beautifully manicured garden into a tangled mess.
But fear not, for the solution lies in leveraging the power of a grass or string trimmer. With these tools, you can say goodbye to the backbreaking work of manually removing weeds and hello to a lush, well-manicured outdoor space.
The 9 Best String Trimmers
When it comes to choosing a string trimmer, you’re spoiled for choice. Some of the top brands on the market include BLACK+DECKER, Greenworks, Toro, Makita, WORX, DEWALT, Poulan Pro, Craftsman, and Husqvarna. With each brand offering a range of features and benefits, it’s no wonder that selecting the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for the best of the best, however, our top pick is the Husqvarna String Trimmer, which offers unparalleled performance and reliability.
Our Top Pick for the Best String Trimmer
Our top pick for the best string trimmer is the Husqvarna String Trimmer, a formidable machine designed specifically for commercial applications with a powerful engine. While it’s ideal for medium to large residential properties, its capabilities extend far beyond these limits. This robust tool excels at tackling tough weeds and thick grass with ease, all while featuring a vibration control design that prioritizes operator comfort.
As an added bonus, the Husqvarna String Trimmer is CARB compliant and eliminates the need for mixing oil and fuel. However, it does come with some limitations – namely, its inability to accommodate other cutting or trimming tools. Additionally, this power-packed machine can be quite heavy, making a shoulder harness or strap a necessary investment if you decide to bring this tool into your arsenal.
Fortunately, Amazon offers easy access to pricing information for those looking to make an informed purchase.
3 Types of String Trimmer
When it comes to choosing a string trimmer, you’ll typically come across three primary options: electric (corded) models, battery-powered devices, and gas-powered machines. Each type has its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, which are essential to consider when selecting the right tool for your lawn care needs.
Electric (corded)
For small gardens, electric line trimmers are the way to go. Their lightweight and quiet design makes them a pleasure to use, and their lower maintenance costs compared to gas or battery-powered models are a significant plus. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that electric trimmers have limited reach and require proximity to a power source via an extension cord.
If your gardening needs are relatively straightforward, such as occasional weeding or trimming the edges of your lawn, an electric trimmer is an excellent choice.
Battery-powered
When it comes to trimming small to medium-sized gardens while prioritizing portability and eco-friendliness, battery-powered line trimmers excel. Their compact size allows them to fit comfortably in a car’s back seat, eliminating the need for fuel and cordless worries. The absence of cords also means no tripping hazards. While battery life does depend on yard size, recharging is a simple solution. To maximize efficiency, consider purchasing a spare battery for extended trimming sessions.
Another benefit of these trimmers lies in their auditory friendliness – they produce minimal noise, eliminating the disturbance caused by traditional electric or gas-powered models. Furthermore, zero emissions and lower operational costs make them an attractive choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.
Gas-powered
When it comes to tackling larger gardens, a gas-powered line trimmer is an excellent choice. These machines come with either 2-cycle or 4-cycle engines, with the latter being ideal for overgrown spaces. Unlike their 2-cycle counterparts that require mixing fuel and oil, 4-cycle engines simplify the process by eliminating the need for mixed fuel. As a result, gas-powered trimmers are often more powerful, easier to start, and run smoothly.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider: they tend to be pricier, still emit fumes, and 2-cycle engines can be noisy. Additionally, some models may carry the CARB compliant label. When shopping for a gas-powered trimmer, look for one featuring a transparent fuel tank, allowing you to monitor your fuel levels at a glance.
Tips for Choosing the Best String Trimmer for Your Garden
Line trimmers offer unparalleled versatility and accessibility in your gardening endeavors. They effortlessly navigate tight corners, around trees, along flowerbeds, and borders, leaving your outdoor spaces with a neat and tidy appearance. For more extensive landscaping needs, investing in a brush-cutting capable trimmer is an excellent decision, particularly if you have a large garden with dense foliage and undergrowth to manage.
When shopping for a line trimmer, the shaft’s design should be given priority consideration. Options range from curved to straight, catering to individual preferences. Moreover, detachable line trimmers often come equipped with interchangeable cutting tools, allowing users to transform their trimmer into a hedge trimmer, brush-cutter, sweeper, tree pruner, edger, or cultivator, making them an invaluable addition to your gardening arsenal.
Curved Shafts
When it comes to tackling small yards, a curved shaft trimmer is the perfect tool. Its compact design makes it ideal for navigating tight spaces and trimming around narrow lawns and flowerbeds. Weighing less and being shorter in length means they are easier to maneuver, reducing strain on your back and making them more ergonomically friendly. Plus, their smaller size also means they take up less storage space, a big plus for those with limited yard storage.
Straight Shafts
When it comes to tackling larger yards or commercial properties, straight shafts are the way to go. These heavy-duty brush-cutters offer unparalleled power and a longer reach than other types of trimmers. This makes them particularly well-suited for more demanding tasks such as clearing dense undergrowth and reaching beneath bushes and fences with ease.
Cutting Diameter
When selecting the optimal cutting diameter for your line trimmer, it’s essential to consider the size of your lawn and garden, as well as the type of foliage and weeds you’re trying to manage. For smaller to medium-sized gardens with lighter vegetation, a cutting diameter ranging from 10 to 14 inches is often sufficient. Conversely, larger gardens with denser foliage may require a trimmer with a cutting diameter of 15 to 18 inches or more.
It’s worth noting that petrol-powered line trimmers tend to have wider cutting diameters compared to their electric counterparts.
Safety Guard
Located above the cutting head or string, the safety guard plays a crucial role in protecting users from potentially hazardous debris that may be generated during operation. While it effectively shields individuals from harm, it’s worth noting that certain models may feature larger guards, which while providing increased protection, can also compromise one’s visibility.
Shoulder Harness
When tackling extensive trimming and cutting tasks, consider investing in a shoulder harness – a feature often missing from standard models. If you’re working with a heavier-duty trimmer, such as a gas-powered one, this accessory can be a game-changer. Not only will it alleviate the strain on your back, but it’ll also make the entire experience more comfortable and efficient.
Trimmer Line
The trimmer line is a vital component of any string trimmer, responsible for cutting through grass and weeds. It’s available in two primary forms: standard-grade and commercial-grade. The former is suitable for low-intensity trimming in smaller yards and offers an economical solution, while the latter is better suited to larger properties with denser vegetation and pesky weeds. To ensure optimal performance, it’s also wise to maintain a spare spool of trimmer line on hand.
Line-feed System
The line-feed system in trimmers can be manual, requiring you to turn off the device and manually pull or unwind the remaining line from the spool when it runs out. This process can be time-consuming and inconvenient. In contrast, many modern trimmers feature a ‘bump feed system’ or ‘bump head’, which allows you to easily advance the cutting string by simply tapping the cutting head on the ground.
Some advanced models even offer an automatic line-feed mechanism that deploys when the line becomes too short.
Spool Type
When it comes to utilizing a line trimmer, one of the most challenging aspects is attaching a new cutting line to the spool. The process can be quite frustrating, especially when working with twin lines that offer more precision in your cuts. On the other hand, single cutting lines may prove easier to thread, but they often fall short of delivering the same level of quality as their dual counterparts.
Regardless of which type you’re dealing with, mastering this step is crucial for a successful trimming experience.
Handles
While many trimmers come equipped with handles that simplify the grooming process, others boast more versatile designs. Specifically, some models feature adjustable handles that can be rotated to switch between horizontal trimming and vertical edging. This added functionality allows for greater flexibility when tackling different areas of your pet’s coat, making it an attractive feature for those seeking a high degree of control over their grooming experience.
Accessories
When it comes to trimmers, some models are more bare-bones than others. While some may simply include a cutting line and spool, other trimmers offer additional perks like brush-cutting blades or multiple edging heads to help you tackle various lawn care tasks with ease.
Safety Tips for Using Your String Trimmer
When operating a line trimmer, safety should always be your top priority. To avoid accidents and ensure a comfortable trimming experience for yourself and others, it’s essential to follow some simple yet crucial guidelines.
Firstly, take the time to read the manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer before using your line trimmer. This will help you understand how to operate the device correctly and avoid any potential hazards.
Make sure you’re properly attired while trimming by wearing eye safety gear to protect yourself from flying debris, earplugs to safeguard your hearing, gloves to prevent injuries, sturdy shoes to keep your feet safe, and long pants to shield your legs from harm.
Remember that line trimmers are not toys and should be handled with care. Children should never be allowed to operate a line trimmer.
Furthermore, always be mindful of your surroundings while trimming and ensure that anyone within the vicinity is at least 50 feet away.
Before starting your trimming session, make sure you’re in a clear mental state by avoiding any medication or alcohol consumption. Also, inspect your line trimmer to guarantee it’s in good working condition. If you have an electric model, double-check that the cord isn’t damaged.
When preparing to start trimming, remove any loose objects from your work area, such as sticks, stones, or metal pieces, to prevent accidents. For gas-powered models, begin by starting the trimmer outside and refrain from using it in enclosed spaces.
To avoid any potential hazards while trimming, always keep the cutting head below waist level. If you need to repair your line trimmer and it’s an electric model, ensure it’s switched off and unplugged before performing any maintenance tasks.
Lastly, never use a line trimmer when standing on a ladder or roof, or while up a tree, as this can increase the risk of accidents. By following these safety tips based on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Environmental Health Grass Trimmer Safety Guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy safe and effective trimming.
9 Best String Trimmers – Reviews
BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer
BLACK+DECKER, a renowned manufacturer of premium home and garden power tools, is dedicated to crafting durable, reliable, and eco-friendly gardening equipment. The BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer boasts impressive specs: a 6.5 Amp motor, high torque transmission, and a 14-inch cutting swath, capable of tackling the toughest weeds and undergrowth.
This versatile tool can also be converted into an edger for precise trimming along borders, pathways, and flowerbeds – simply rotate the head to unlock its wheeled edger capabilities.
The trimmer’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, while its adjustable shaft and pivoting handle positions provide optimal control over your cutting and trimming.
The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) technology automatically feeds the trimmer line when needed, preventing tangling, and the cord retention system prevents accidental disconnection.
Pros of this trimmer include its lightweight design, making it ideal for small to medium yards with low-density vegetation. It’s also easy to use and can cut weeds up to 1/4-inch thick. However, it may not be suitable for large-sized yards or dense undergrowth/thick weeds.
Greenworks String Trimmer
The Greenworks String Trimmer is an excellent option for homeowners with small to medium-sized gardens. Its lightweight design belies its powerful 4 Amp motor, which ensures efficient trimming and a seamless start-up process. The dual auto line feed feature eliminates the hassle of constant string replacement, while the adjustable telescopic shaft and auxiliary handle cater to operator comfort.
With a generous 13-inch cutting path and a rotating handle, this trimmer excels at navigating tight spaces alongside driveways and tackling stubborn weeds. While it may have some drawbacks, including a somewhat short shaft and an occasionally faulty spool cap, its many benefits make it a worthwhile investment for gardeners seeking a reliable and efficient trimming experience.
Toro Trimmer/Edger
When it comes to tackling small to medium-sized gardens with abundant weed growth and dense grass, the Toro Trimmer/Edger is an excellent solution. This versatile tool boasts a robust 5 Amp motor, a wide 14-inch dual-line cutting head, and an auto-feeding trim line system, making quick work of gardening tasks. With just a simple button press, the trimmer seamlessly converts into an edger, allowing for effortless yard maintenance.
A practical guide wheel ensures smooth operation while preventing accidental scalping. Additionally, the rust-resistant aluminum shaft can be adjusted for extended reach, and the adjustable handle provides both comfort and control when navigating hard-to-reach areas like under bushes. Overall, this trimmer is a great value proposition, offering affordability, power, and quiet operation, making it well-suited for small yards.
Makita String Trimmer
For small yard owners seeking an eco-friendly, portable, and lightweight trimmer, the Makita String Trimmer is an excellent choice. Its powerful motor churns out 7,800 RPM for swift cutting, while the revamped design ensures a balanced performance that’s perfect for tackling various trimming and cutting tasks. The telescoping shaft allows users to customize the tool’s length for optimal cutting positioning, and the easy-loading bump-and-feed trimmer head adds to the user convenience.
Additionally, the adjustable 5-position pivoting head enables precise cutting angles when working in tight spaces. The 18-volt LXT Lithium-Ion battery provides long-lasting power, accompanied by a battery capacity warning system that alerts users when recharging is needed. Other ergonomic features include an adjustable loop handle designed to accommodate different user heights and a built-in lock-off lever for enhanced operator safety.
While it excels in many aspects, this trimmer may not be ideal for handling tall grass and tough weeds. It’s also worth noting that the battery must be purchased separately. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Makita String Trimmer is well-suited for small to medium-sized yards, boasting a smooth performance, lightweight design, quiet operation, and good battery life.
WORX PowerShare String Trimmer & Edger
WORX’s PowerShare String Trimmer & Edger has earned its reputation among gardening enthusiasts for delivering a powerful, fast, and lightweight trimming experience. This versatile tool can effortlessly tame even the most unruly weeds and tall grass in your garden, all while being easily convertible into a wheel edger without requiring any tools. The automatic push-button line feed ensures uninterrupted work, as you don’t need to manually feed the line.
To optimize operator comfort and control, the handle is adjustable, the head pivots 90 degrees, and the shaft adjusts according to your height, providing maximum comfort and control. A user-friendly safety start trigger eliminates the hassle of dealing with cords. Unlike some other models that can be weighed down by their batteries, this string trimmer remains surprisingly lightweight, thanks in part to its included 20-volt Power Share MAX lithium battery and charger.
These components are also compatible with other tools in WORX’s Power Share family. The rubberized wheels make it easy to guide the trimmer along your lawn while edging, while an adjustable spacer guard keeps the trim line at a safe distance from delicate landscaping areas. Additionally, the long-lasting copolymer nylon resin string used by this trimmer is particularly durable when used against hard surfaces.
The WORX PowerShare String Trimmer & Edger’s pros include its ideal size for small to medium-sized yards, ease of use, lightweight design, and powerful performance. Its auto-feed line works well, making it a great option for those who value convenience. However, some users may find that the trimmer needs to be purchased separately from other WORX tools, and converting it to an edger can be challenging due to its tight locking mechanism.
Additionally, this tool is not suitable for large- sized yards or heavy-duty use.
DEWALT String Trimmer
The DEWALT String Trimmer DCST920P1 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and efficient power tool. With its brushless motor powered by a 20-volt MAX premium high-capacity battery, this trimmer delivers extended runtime, better battery life, and impressive performance. The innovative gear drive design enables the device to maintain speed while tackling tough grass and weeds, thanks to its increased torque output.
The compact yet impact-resistant shaft offers maximum durability for daily use, while the ergonomic auxiliary handle provides comfort and ease of maneuverability during prolonged usage. Additionally, the QuickLoad spool system allows for fast and effortless re-spooling, a feature that enhances overall usability. A variable speed trigger and Hi/Lo switch also grant you precise control over the trimmer’s performance, resulting in quieter operation.
While there are some drawbacks to consider, such as the higher price point and limitations when dealing with larger properties, the DEWALT String Trimmer DCST920P1 remains a powerful and easy-to-use tool for tackling everyday trimming tasks. Its pros far outweigh its cons, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and effective solution.
Poulan Pro String Trimmer
The Poulan Pro String Trimmer is equipped with a robust 28cc 2-cycle engine, empowering it to efficiently tackle dense weeds and grass, as well as navigate around large obstacles like rocks. The Effortless Pull Starting (EPS) system, featuring a spring-assisted pull cord and SureFire™ technology, ensures smooth starts with minimal effort required. Additionally, the Auto return stop switch automatically resets to the ON position, simplifying the starting process.
When in operation, the Tap n’ Go head effortlessly feeds and extends the line when making contact with the ground. With its 17-inch wide cutting path and extra-long 39.75-inch straight shaft, this trimmer enables you to cover more ground in less time while accessing hard-to-reach areas around your garden. Furthermore, the Poulan Pro accepts six optional attachments, opening up a world of gardening possibilities, such as trimming hedges, pruning trees, or cultivating soil.
Its notable pros include its powerful engine, extra-long shaft and wide cutting width, and easy starting capabilities. However, some users may find it to be on the heavier side, and the shaft can bend if not handled carefully.
Craftsman String Trimmer
Looking to tackle a larger lawn with ease? The Craftsman String Trimmer is an ideal solution for those who need a heavy-duty trimmer that can handle thick weeds and brush-cutting. This commercial-grade trimmer boasts a powerful 25 cc 4-cycle engine, providing extra trimming and cutting power, as well as an 18-inch wide cutting path to quickly tame even the most unruly grass. With its easy-start technology, you’ll be up and running in just two simple steps: prime and pull.
The Quick Change™ head allows for effortless line changes and accepts blades, giving you greater flexibility when it comes to tackling different trimming tasks. Additionally, the adjustable multi-position handle and shoulder strap reduce operator fatigue and vibration, making this trimmer a comfortable choice for extended use. While it may require some effort to remove the bump head, the benefits of this reliable and powerful trimmer far outweigh any minor drawbacks.
With its compatibility with the Trimmer Plus system (attachments sold separately), you can convert this weed wacker into other lawn care products as needed. Craftsman backs their product with a 2-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for even the most discerning homeowner. Some notable pros include its suitability for medium to large properties, powerful performance, and ability to start quickly.
However, some users may find it challenging to remove the bump head, and the trimmer’s performance may not be as strong when cutting thick brush.
Husqvarna String Trimmer
Husqvarna’s powerful gas-powered String Trimmer boasts an impressive 18-inch cutting path, making it a top choice for large properties and semi-professional users. This reliable trimming companion is designed to tackle thick weeds, long grass, and dense undergrowth with ease. Its robust 25 cc 4-cycle Smart Start engine provides rapid start-up capabilities, minimizing effort required. Furthermore, the engine and starter system operate efficiently, eliminating the need to mix oil and fuel.
As a CARB-compliant unit, it is environmentally friendly. The trimmer’s straight shaft measures 70 inches in length and 9 inches in diameter, featuring a vibration control design for extended reach, comfort, and control. Additionally, its ‘Tap ‘n Go’ feature automatically feeds the line through when the cutting head makes contact with the ground, eliminating the need to stop and reload the string.
While it may be one of the heavier trimmers on the market, users will appreciate its potent performance, ease of use, fast operation, sturdy build, minimal vibration, and ability to cut through heavy weeds and thick grass. As a minor drawback, the unit does not come with extra parts for attaching edgers or blowers. For those seeking an efficient and powerful trimming experience, this Husqvarna String Trimmer is certainly worth considering.
Our Top Pick for the Best String Trimmer
Our top recommendation for a string trimmer is the Husqvarna String Trimmer, a powerful machine that excels at tackling commercial applications and larger residential properties. Its heavy-duty engine makes quick work of thick grass and pesky weeds, while its vibration control design ensures operator comfort throughout use. Additionally, this tool meets CARB compliance standards and eliminates the need for oil-fuel mixing, making it a hassle-free option.
While it lacks attachment capabilities for other cutting or trimming tools, its raw power is undeniable. However, its weight can be a drawback, so consider investing in a shoulder harness or strap to ensure optimal use.
