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Make landscaping easier with our top picks.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Fortunately, string trimmers are a simple yet effective tool that can help keep your lawn in great shape.
We also spoke with ODea on what to look for when shopping for a string trimmer.
Shaft height adjustment requires unscrewing the handle, which can be inconvenient if you have multiple users.
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This Ego Power Plus was balanced and incredibly easy to use.
It was cinch to assemble out of the box, only taking 10 minutes to put together.
The automatic line load feature was our teams favorite part of this machine.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
The strong carbon fiber shaft and low-vibration brushless motor meant this tool was stable and comfortable to use.
Product Details: Power Source:Battery |Cutting Width:15 in.
If youre looking for an affordable all-in-one machine, the Worx GT Revolution weed whacker is a great choice.
This adaptable tool can be converted from a string trimmer to an edging tool or amini mower.
Using this tool as a string trimmer was easy, and it swiftly cut through grass and weeds.
The mower mode was perfect to use for random tufts of grass that were taller than everything else.
The battery can also be used with all other Worx products.
We wished the power switch were a different color to help distinguish it from the other buttons.
Product Details: Power Source:Battery |Cutting Width:12 in.
The shoulder strap is not long enough for very tall users, and replacing the line requires disassembly.
Theres even a reverse button that can be used to clear debris that’s become tangled in the trimmer.
Product Details: Power Source:Battery |Cutting Width:15 in.
Users are unable to adjust the speed, and the single-line system may struggle with thicker vegetation.
Assembling the Greenworks 40V was easy and we liked that it came preloaded with line.
The automatic feed system was another feature that made this machine easy to use.
Though this trimmer is incredibly lightweight and easy to use, remember to treat all machines with respect.
To use a trimmer safely, says Pogue, always follow basic precautions and handle it with care.
Use the line size recommended for your trimmer so you dont wear out the motor.
Users should wear eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
Product Details: Power Source:Battery |Cutting Width:13 in.
(without battery) |Shaft Length:52.68 in.
During testing, we noted how easy the machine was to operate and whether it was comfortable to carry.
We recorded the line load process and how well the line-feed system worked.
We also rated the functionality of the weed whacker and its performance.
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For battery-operated machines, we recorded the charge time and run time.
However, gas machines are heavier and produce more noise and fumes.
In general, this will be around an hour of continuous use.
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Electric weed whackers are also much quieter during operation.
A wider cutting width allows you to work more quickly with fewer passes.
Our top picks have cutting widths ranging between 12 and 17 inches.
If the shaft is too long or too short, it will be uncomfortable to use.
Weight
The string trimmers on our list weigh between 5 and 11 pounds.
An automatic system simply requires you to press a button on the handle to keep feeding.
Each system has different benefits.
Other String Trimmers We Tested
Ryobi 40V 15 in.
However, the large battery caused this Ryobi string trimmer to be a bit top heavy.
The weed whackers unbalanced weight resulted in uneven trimming due to lack of control.
Ryobi One Plus 18V 10 in.
While we liked the machine overall, the line quality needs to be improved.
Stihl FS 91 R 16.5 in.
Gas String Trimmer
This powerfulStihl string trimmersliced through dense vegetation and twigs with ease.
you’re able to buy pre-mixed fuel or make your own.
Having to purchase a special fuel mixture may be a barrier for some users.
Your Questions, Answered
How much can you expect to spend on a string trimmer?
Pogue says, The cost of a string trimmer depends on its key in, features and brand.
Our favorites for the average homeowner ranged in price from around $100 to $300.
This mid-range price will typically provide features like automatic line loading and strong enough power foreveryday landscaping tasks.
What is the difference between a lawn edger and a string trimmer?
Edgers define boundaries, while trimmers handle general maintenance, though some trimmers also have edging features.
Who We Are
This article was written byBetter Homes & GardenscontributorRachel Ahrnsen.
She is a Master Gardener who spent hours researching the best string trimmers and referencing the BHG testers insights.
She also consultedKim Pogue, senior merchant of handheld outdoor power at The Home Depot.
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval.
In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
