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Not big fan of long reviews? Here's the bottom line: The best String Trimmer and Weed Wacker for backyards in the market today is the EGO Power+ ST1500-S. Its 28cc engine and air purge raise it high above the competition, while its Smart Start recoil system makes it an excellent option for large yards!
In order to keep your yard looking as neat and tidy as possible, you need to be able to trim each and every inch of it. Get it ready for the summer activities or for the yard sale. While a lawn mower can cover the vast majority of your yard, you need something that’s able to safely trim the edges of your yard without hurting garden beds and patios. What you need is a string trimmer or weed wacker.
Table of Contents
String Trimmers Reviewed
What is a String Trimmer?
Also known as a weed wacker or weed eater, a string trimmer is a long yard appliance which can be used to safely trim the edges of your yard next to patios, garden beds, and other untouchable areas. Making use of plastic line, string trimmers whip back and forth, cutting through grass, weeds, and other plants that you wish to trim. They essentially trim the parts of your yard that lawn mowers can’t access.
In general, line trimmers are powered in three different ways: by gas, electricity, or battery. Available at all different quality levels, there are weed wackers available at all different price points. If you’re dedicated to keeping your yard neat, attractive, and tidy at all times, a string trimmer is a near necessity.
Benefits of Using a String Trimmer
The primary benefit offered by string trimmers is their ability to safely cut grass and weeds that sit up against the edge of gardens and patios. While you could conceivably use a lawn mower to trim theses grasses and weeds, you run the risk of damaging the patio or garden that borders them.
Because weed wackers make use of a skinny, narrow, flexible line that whips back and forth, they don’t possess the power to greatly disturb a patio or garden. In essence, fast-moving metal is more destructive than fast-moving plastic.
A weed eater is a great tool to use if you want to trim up the missed portions of your yard in a quick and safe manner. Portable, powerful, and easy to use, they are the perfect supplemental tools to lawn mowers.
Types of String Trimmers And The Best Weed Eater For Each Job
In general, there are three different types of string trimmers. They include gas trimmers, electric corded trimmers, and battery-powered trimmers. Each type of string trimmer offers its own individual benefits and drawbacks. Let’s discuss these benefits and drawbacks in detail so that you can decide which type of weed wacker is right for you.
- Gas: First, let’s discuss gas string trimmers. These are the most powerful types of string trimmers, and are typically used by professional landscapers. Because they don’t need to be plugged in to operate, they can be used essentially anywhere, as long as they’re filled up with fuel. This makes them great not only for professionals who are constantly on the go, but for those who own large properties; if you have a lot of property to trim, then you will want a gas-powered trimmer.
The major drawback of gas string trimmers is that they’re more expensive than other types of string trimmers. With corded electric and battery-powered weed wackers, you can operate them at essentially no cost after they’ve been purchased; but with gas trimmers, you must constantly buy gas in order to fuel them.
Pros:
• More powerful than corded or battery-operated trimmers.
• The heads tend to be larger, allowing you to cover more area and complete your job faster.
• Can hold larger spools of string than other models.
• Ideal for commercial use.
Cons:
• They are heavier than corded and battery models.
• Produce exhaust emissions that are not environmentally friendly.
• Gas-powered string trimmers are louder, and you will need to wear ear protection.
• Requires you to mix gas and oil.
• Costs more than corded electric string trimmers. - Corded Electric: Corded electric weed wackers offer power that is similar to gas trimmers, but do so at the expense of portability. Because they must constantly be plugged into a power outlet, they can only be used as far as their cords allow them to be used. This can be a real problem if you’re trying to work in a huge yard without a lot of power outlets.
The great thing, however, about corded electric trimmers is that, after they’re purchased, they essentially operate for free. Sure, they make use of electricity, but the cost isn’t even close to what it takes to operate a gas trimmer. These trimmers are ideal for those who only need to use their wackers on rather small yards.
Pros:
• They cost the least out of the three choices.
• Most weigh less than 10 pounds.
• Ideal for smaller yards or easy landscaping needs.
• You don’t need to worry about routine tune-ups
• Typically start with a push button for ease.
• Quieter than gas powered trimmers
• You don’t have to worry about mixing gas and oil.
Cons:
• Limited on how far you can go and you will need extension cords for larger yards.
• Not good for commercial use.
• Not ideal for lawns with tall grass and thick weeds. - Battery-powered: Battery-powered string trimmers offer exceptional portability, but are not as powerful as gas and corded electric weed eaters. We wouldn’t recommend them for heavy, commercial use, but they can certainly get you by if you’re just using them for your own property. They’re especially good for those who have large yards where electrical outlets are not readily accessible.
It is important to note, however, that battery-powered trimmers are typically very expensive; usually just as expensive as gas trimmers. Of course, after they’ve been purchased, they essentially operate for free. All you need to do is charge their batteries in order to keep them running.
Pros:
• Offer mobility without a cord or needing to pull a string to start.
• Perform well with moderate-length grass.
• Best suited for smaller jobs.
• Cordless string trimmers tend to be better balanced and easier to handle.
• You don’t have to mix gas and oil.
• Quieter than gas-powered trimmers.
Cons:
• Not ideal for tall grass or heavy brush.
• Heavier than corded varieties, but lighter than gas-powered trimmers.
• Have a limited run time, typically 30 to 60 minutes.
• You have to remember to recharge after each use.
• Might have to recharge in the middle of your job or purchase extra batteries.
Related Article:
For large yards we recommend you use a Wheeled String Trimmer.
This video demonstrates the difference between gas and battery-powered string trimmers:
2 vs. 4-Cycle Engines
Gas trimmer engines come in two different varieties: two-cycle and four-cycle. Each type has pros and cons to consider. However, these considerations only apply if you decide that a gas-powered string trimmer is the best choice for you.
Two-cycle string trimmers require that the user mixes gasoline and oil. To determine the correct ratio, you have to read the manual given by the manufacturer. Most want you to use a fuel to oil ratio of 50-to-1 or 40-to-1. One of the best advantages of a two-stroke engine is that it can produce higher RPMS, so they tend to be more powerful. You will find them to be lighter in weight, even though they can cut down heavy vegetation with ease.
Using the correct ratio of gasoline and oil is quite important for your weed whacker. You have to mix them to ensure the crankshaft and piston both stay lubricated. If you want your trimmer to run efficiently, make sure you read the manual and determine the ratio. If you don’t, you risk shortening your engine life.
Four-cycle trimmers don’t require that you mix gasoline and oil, making it a bit easier for the user. All you have to do is put in some fuel and turn on your trimmer! Four cycle engines tend to be quieter because they use combustion.
Unfortunately, four-cycle engines weigh more, so you may have trouble with maneuverability and ease of use! The other negative is that these varieties cost more due to the higher performance of the engine.
String Trimmer Reviews 2018- Which is the Best Weed Wacker?
EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless String Trimmer
If you’re looking for the best weed eater on the market today, you might very well be interested in the EGO Power+ 56-Volt String Trimmer. Despite the fact that it’s a battery-powered trimmer, it offers exceptional power and functionality.
With a heavy-duty aluminum shaft that measures in at 49 inches in length, it is long enough for just about any person it comes across. Possessing a 15-inch cutting radius, it’s capable of trimming a great deal of grass and weeds in a very short time.
One of the great features of the EGO is that it comes with a variable speed feature. You can select the speed you need for the job at hand, which extends the running time. There is no reason to use full power if you are trimming grass around your flower beds!
Another thoughtful feature is the padding on the forward handle. It provides additional comfort for the task at hand, and the padding helps to reduce some of the vibrations. Users can adjust the handle based on height.
Unfortunately, you need to make sure you are appropriately dressed when you use this string trimmer. Every part of your body, including your face, will be hit with debris. Other trimmers offer a better guard. However, this con doesn’t seem so bad when weighed against the pros of this trimmer!
It weighs in at just 6.7 pounds, making it ridiculously easy to handle regardless of your strength or size. Powered by a 56-volt lithium-ion battery, it provides around one hour of use on a full charge. Unfortunately, this trimmer comes alone without a battery included. You’ll have to purchase one separately.
PROS
- As quiet as they come
- Offers extraordinary power for a battery-powered trimmer
- Large, 15-inch cutting swath
- Very lightweight construction
- Long battery duration
CONS
- Doesn’t come with battery
- Not designed for commercial use
Next, on our list of weed eater reviews, is the Hitachi CG23ECPSL Gas-Powered String Trimmer. While it’s on the expensive side, it provides superb power and portability capabilities.
A commercial-grade string trimmer, it can be used by professional landscapers and casual landscapers alike. The best gas string trimmer on the market today, this Hitachi trimmer possesses around 70 inches of total length; more than enough length for the majority of users.
Despite the powerful 22.5cc two-stroke engine, this Hitachi meets emission levels. They did so without sacrificing power or creating a difficult-to-maintain the product.
Property owners love the ability to cut through thick grasses and difficult vegetation with ease. You might think that you are really using a brush cutter! Despite the power, the weight and size allow you to use it as an edger. Your sidewalks and driveways will look like a professional was called!
As an added bonus, this Hitachi model has several different attachments that you can use with it (sold separately). Some options include an edger, pole saw, and hedge trimmer! It is versatile and allows you to make the most of what you purchased.
Weighing in at around 10 pounds, it’s a little heavy, but still reasonably easy to handle for the majority of users. On a full tank of gas, it offers around 2 hours of heavy-duty trimming. It’s equipped with a powerful 22.5cc engine that slices its dual-sided head through grasses and weeds both thick and thin.
One of the nice things about this trimmer is that it’s designed to reduce overall vibration. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a gas string trimmer that vibrates less than this one from Hitachi.
Warning: Users have reported that the plastic parts on this model are not durable, that replacement parts are hard to get, and that Hitachi's customer service isn't very helpful.
PROS
- Designed to reduce overall vibration
- Extremely powerful motor
- 70-inch length allows it to reach anything in its vicinity
- Very quiet for a gas string trimmer
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- The added length means you won’t be hit as often with flying debris.
CONS
- A little heavy compared to others
- On the expensive side
- The spool only holds 13 feet of string
- Plastic parts are not durable
- It's hard to get replacement parts
- Doesn’t come with a shoulder strap
- Hitachi's Customer Service Department is reportedly bad
Next, on our list of weed wacker reviews, is the Poulan Pro Gas POwered Straight Shaft Trimmer. While it’s not the best weed wacker on the market today, it still offers quite a bit of value at a mid-level price.
Measuring in at 40 inches in length, it’s a little shorter than a lot of trimmers. This is both good and bad. It is on the heavy side, weighing in at around 14 pounds.But due to its generally compact construction, its weight is nothing unbearable to control.
There are several more advantages to this Poulan Pro string trimmer. It works with multiple universal attachments, making it a versatile tool in your shed. Users love how easy it is to start. Many gas trimmers are difficult to start, but the Poulan Pro will start right up. Also, it is quite easy to assemble when you first purchase.
Just be aware that this trimmer is not ideal for the heaviest of vegetation. You shouldn’t use it for commercial projects. It is great for someone with a sizable yard that doesn’t have thick weeds.
Equipped with a long, 17-inch cutting swath, it annihilates every weed or piece of grass in its general vicinity. Coming with a spring-assisted starter mechanism, it’s reasonably easy to get up and running. Overall, while this is not the best weed eater on the market today, this trimmer from Poulan Pro is respectable. If you’re looking for a gas trimmer on a budget price, this one would be a great choice.
PROS
- Reasonably priced for a gas trimmer
- 17-inch long cutting swath
- Powerful motor
- Easy to get up and running
CONS
- Relatively short compared to others
- On the heavy side
- Some durability concerns
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced battery-powered string trimmer, the BLACK+DECKER LSTE523 String Trimmer is the best weed trimmer you’re going to find.
While it doesn’t possess the power of higher-end models, it still runs extraordinarily well for its price. It’s ideal for sporadic, around-the-house use. Measuring in at around 40 inches in length and 6.3 pounds in weight, it’s on the small side.
While this reduces its overall reach, it also makes it ridiculously easy to handle and make use of. A nice thing about the trimmer is that it’s capable of transforming into a wheeled edger whenever needed. This allows you to make as detailed and nuanced of cuts as possible.
Despite being a battery-powered string trimmer, this Black & Decker weed eater can handle most vegetation that you put in its path. It offers different power levels, allowing you to conserve your battery for less difficult jobs. If you typically doubt battery trimmers, this model is going to surprise you. It doesn’t lack in power or battery life. Tall grass is nothing in front of this string trimmer!
Best of all, when you combine the compact size and small weight, you won’t feel as fatigued when using the Black & Decker. You won’t dread the times you have to drag out the trimmer to create a nice garden.
Running on a 20v battery, this trimmer operates for around 20 minutes; a decent amount of time considering its low price. The biggest surprise about this trimmer is its power. A battery-powered trimmer at its price isn’t supposed to be this powerful, but it is. This makes it a great tool for owners of large properties and casual landscapers alike.
However, it is wise to purchase this trimmer with an extra battery or even two. If you have more than 20 minutes of work ahead of you, an extra battery means you don’t have to stop your work and wait for it to charge, unless you want to take a lunch break!
PROS
- As affordable as they come
- Excellent power for a battery-powered trimmer at its price
- Excellent construction quality
- Easy to start and operate
CONS
- Portability restricted by its cord
- Doesn’t possess high-end power
The last of our best hedge trimmer reviews involves the Earthwise 5-Amp Electric String Trimmer. A corded electric grass trimmer, it offers quite a bit of value at a very low price. In fact, we consider it the best budget string trimmer on the market today.
Possessing a 15-inch cutting swath, it’s capable of trimming grass and weeds in a quick and effortless manner. It measures in at 54 inches in length, and weighs in at around 7 pounds.
If you are on a budget and only have a small lawn, this Earthwise model is perfect for you. The rotating handle allows you to use it for edging and trimming with just a simple twist. Earthwise also offers three different positions for the cutting head, along with a flip down guard. The edge guard will protect flowers or other important plants from accidental death.
One of the pros that many users love is the telescopic handle. You can adjust the angle, height, and rotation to fit your needs. People who are taller love telescopic handles; it means you have to do less hunching over.
It is important to remember that this electric trimmer isn’t meant for heavy-duty jobs or huge yards. If you have acres to trim, this choice is not for you. If you have a small yard or even rent a lot for an RV, you will find the Earthwise trimmer to be adequate for your tasks at hand.
This is a very long and lightweight construction for a trimmer at its price point. Though it’s perpetually confined by a cord, it offers pretty reasonable power and trimming capabilities. It’s certainly not the most powerful weed wacker around, but it will get the job done if used sporadically around the house.
PROS
- As affordable as they come
- Long and lightweight construction
- Long, 15-inch cutting swath
- Very easy to start up and operate
CONS
- Portability restricted by its cord
- Doesn’t possess high-end power
Think About Your Lawn Size
Before you decide which factors are the most important in your decision, you have to think about the crucial deciding factor – your lawn. The property where you will use your new best weed eater says a lot about the features that matter.
Here are some things to think about:
Who Should Buy a Gas String Trimmer?
Due to their typically incredible power and portability capabilities, gas string trimmers are ideal for those who landscape professionally. They will generally make their way through any type of grass or weed, regardless of how thick it is.While gas string trimmers can certainly benefit homeowners and casual landscapers, the situations that those people typically use them for don’t quite justify the amount of money that they cost to operate.
Who Should Buy an Electric String Trimmer?
Electric string trimmers are the ideal type of string trimmers for homeowners and casual landscapers. Neither the battery-powered or corded electric string trimmer possesses the combination of power and portability that the gas trimmer possesses, but for at-home use, this combination is rarely needed.
Corded electric trimmers are best-suited for those who own small yards because they must be in close proximity to power outlets at all times. Battery-powered trimmers are best suited for those who own large yards because they can be taken anywhere freely without any cord restrictions.
What to Consider When Choosing a String Trimmer
Apart from whether they’re corded electric, gas, or battery-powered, there are a number of different things that affect a string trimmer’s overall quality. In order to pick the right string trimmer for you, you need to take these things into consideration. They include power, portability, construction, noise, ease of use, trimming ability, and cost.
- Power: Every string trimmer possesses a different level of power. The more power a trimmer has, the easier it will cut through large, thick swaths of weeds. If you’re buying a gas string trimmer, you should look for one that offers around 22.5cc of power. If you’re seeking a corded electric, get one with at least a 5 amp motor. Looking for a battery-powered trimmer? 20 volts or more should suffice.
- Portability: If you only need to use your trimmer in a small yard with close proximity to electrical outlets, portability is not a big factor to you. However, if you use your weed eater in a huge yard, it’s a huge factor to you. Make sure you’re comfortable with a specific trimmer’s weight and handle before making a final purchase.
- Construction: The last thing you want is a weed eater that dies within a few months of your purchasing it. Not only does your trimmer need to be tough structurally, but it must possess a motor that has proven its ability to last over long periods of time. It’s better to spend a lot of money for a high-quality trimmer than it is to scrimp on a poor quality piece of junk that will stop working within a few months.
- Noise: While every weed wacker is going to be noisy, some are noisier than others. In particular, gas trimmers are a lot louder than both battery-powered and corded electric trimmers. Make sure you have an understanding of how loud your desired trimmer is, and that you’re comfortable with its noise level.
- Ease of Use: Some weed wackers can be turned on with just the press of a button while others must be tugged on relentlessly in order to get up and running. In addition, some are difficult to balance while others seem to fit just perfectly in your grasp. It’s important to have complete control over your trimmer so that you can do as detailed and nuanced work with it as possible.
- Trimming Ability: Perhaps the most important thing to consider when choosing a string trimmer is its trimming ability. If possible, try to test your trimmer out before making a purchase. While overall power is a great indicator of how well a trimmer will trim, it’s not the only indicator.
- Cost: While it would be nice to go out and buy the best lawn trimmer on the market, this is not always a possibility. While you want to get as much value as possible, you want to do it without blowing past your budget. Set a minimum amount of money, set a maximum amount of money, and buy something that falls in between those two figures.
- The String: All weed whackers use some type of string on a spool. The spool is inside of the trimmer and is what knocks down all those unsightly weeds and vegetation. The string plays an important role in a trimmer, so it would be silly for us to ignore it as an important feature. Over time, the string will wear down and need to be replaced. There are a few distinctions you should know.
Semi-automatic models allow the string to adjust on its own. You might have to bump the head, which means you have to bump it against the ground to feed out more line. There is typically a button down there.
Manual feed models mean that you have to stop what you are doing to release more string from the spool. That can be a nuisance, and you have to remember to do so.
You also have to consider how much string the trimmer holds. If it holds more string, you don’t have to worry about a replacement as often. That is great if you have a lot of property and tend to go through spools often. - Warranty and Support: A warranty should cover your weed eater. You are going to spend good money on this piece of machinery! A warranty is crucial. Support is also important. You want a downloadable manual. Customer service should easily be reached, allowing you to access to support to ask questions. It is even better if there is a service center nearby in case something goes wrong with your string trimmer.
- Features and Extras: Compare all of the extras and features that come with the models you like the most. Some models can do other jobs and act as an edger, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, and more! Other trimmers come with guards that protect other plants. You might like a see-through gas tank or deflectors that stop exhaust from blowing in your face.
- Carrying Strap: This feature won’t make or break your decision, but it sure is a perk for those who are going to do a lot of trimming each week. A carrying strap makes it easier to carry the grass trimmer for long periods. A strap distributes the weight of the trimmer across your body and back rather than just using your arms and shoulders. You won’t feel as tired afterward.
What Does Cutting Size Mean?
As you are browsing the selections for the best weed wacker, you are going to see the term cutting size. Weed eaters come in a variety of size ranges. Each size range has better types of uses and situations.
10” to 12” is the cutting width if you need a trimmer for light use. If you need to trim around a small yard or sidewalks, pick this size.
14” to 15” is a bit larger and allows you to handle a bit more of a larger job. It also lets you conquer taller grasses, but you don’t want to try to clear a thick field!
17” and above is for those who need a heavy duty string trimmer. If you use it for commercial use or larger jobs, this cutting size is for you.
Straight vs. Curved: The Shape of the Shaft Matters
Understanding the difference between straight and curved shafts matters enough to give it some serious consideration. The shaft, or shank, is either straight or curved, and it is to what the handle and head are attached. Each shape has its benefits and reasons why you should pick it. Let’s take a look!
Straight shafts tend to be longer and easier to carry because they are weighted and balanced better than curved shafts. If you happen to be a taller person, a straight shaft will be the preferred option. The main reason people love this design is that you can easily trim under bushes, fences, lawn furniture, decks and more.
Curved shafts have benefits as well! First, they tend to be less expensive, so they are better for those who are on a tight budget. Curved shafts are ideal for those who are weed eating in smaller, tight spaces.
Make Sure You Buy the Right String
There are two types of string you might pick for the best string trimmer. Lower powered weed eaters do fine with a standard grade line. If you have a small yard that won’t require hours of trimming work each week, you can get away with the standard line. You will have to replace more often because standard line wears down faster. However, it isn’t very expensive, so you don’t break your bank.
Conclusion
In order to make your yard look as neat and tidy as possible, you need to trim up the portions of grass and weeds that line your garden beds and patios. The best way to do this is by using a string trimmer. While there are a number of great string trimmers on the market today, there is one that stands out above the rest:
The EGO Power+ 15-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless String Trimmer is the premier string on the market today. Though it’s battery-powered, it supplies power comparable to the power offered by gas trimmers. Whether you own a small or large yard, this top-tier weed eater will accommodate you.
View Comments (2)
Please update the Hitachi CG23ECPSL 22.5cc 2-Cycle Gas Powered Solid Steel Drive Shaft String Trimmer review. When I attempted to use this the 2nd time the plastic throttle lever broke. Since this was 5 days beyond return date but still under warranty I was advised the closest repair facility was 2 hours away. They then asked if I could fix myself if they sent me the part but the part would not be available for 4 weeks. Used once and not able to use again for another month. Checked Amazon reviews and this was an issue with others. Poorly made plastic throttle lever and even worse customer service.
Thanks for the feedback, Kevin. I'm sorry you had a bad experience with Hitachi. You'll be happy to know I updated the article with a warning note below the review.