Best String Trimmers of 2021: Gas & Electric Weed Wacker Reviews

improvedyard.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

When it comes to tools, it is important to make the right choice for the task, especially when it comes to gardening. Most of the time, people choose a particular brand based on reputation and string trimmers are no exception. This article aims to help buyers find the best String Trimmers overall not just on the brand.

IN A HURRY? HERE’S OUR TOP PICKS…

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

We will dive straight into the top string trimmers on the market with different power options in different price points to suit everyone, if you want to know a little more information on find a weed eater on your own then we have put together a buyer’s guide at the bottom of the post to help you.

Husqvarna Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer, 28-cc 2-Cycle, 17-inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer with...
  • Husqvarna 128LD Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer is a great multipurpose weed eater with a 17-inch cutting width and a powerful 28-cc engine to...
  • Tap N' Go T25 Trimmer Head: Husqvarna string trimmer with heavy duty twin line cutting system features a Tap N' Go weed trimmer head for quick...
  • Smart Start Technology: specially-designed engine and starter for easy and fast starting with minimum effort
  • Air Purge: removes air from the carburetor and fuel system for additional easy starting
  • Versatile and Easy to Store: This grass trimmer is compatible with select click-on attachments to cover the job of a variety of lawn care...

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The tool on top of my list is a string trimmer powered by gas and one of the best brands on the market in Husqvarna. The cutting width of 17 inches does not disappoint either.

With the help of a 2B CC engine. You can be sure that it is highly efficient. However. That’s not all. There are a few other features as well which sets the string trimmer apart like:

  • I believe that the easy release mechanism for the new trimmer line certainly makes it more convenient to use.
  • One of the reasons I prefer this string trimmer is because of its translucent fuel tank. It allows me to refill it in time.
  • It also has an air purge system which ensures that you can remove the air from the carburetor and will enable it to function seamlessly.
  • The Smart start technology certainly makes it easy for you to pull the cord and start it
  • If you prefer a highly portable string trimmer. This one meets that requirement as well. It consists of a detachable shaft for the same.

The reason I prefer this string trimmer is because of its lightweight design. It does not cause any hand fatigue due to the same. It comes with a detailed manual that helps you in using it quickly. With loads of reviews on Amazon, it is undoubtedly a reliable option to go with, considering these factors. It does not come as a surprise that it stands on top of my list


Tanaka Gas String Trimmer Commercial Grade

Tanaka TCG24EBSP 2-Cycle Gas String Commercial Grade Trimmer, 23.9cc
  • Tanaka 23.9cc commercial grade 2-cycle engine for maximum reliability and durability
  • Aluminum clutch housing prevents clutch from overheating
  • Lined solid steel drive shaft drastically reduces vibration for maximum comfort
  • Built in spindle lock eliminates need for tools when changing cutting attachment
  • Padded front and rear handles provide longer operation with less fatigue

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The next string trimmer on my list is once again a gas-powered one. The beauty of this trimmer is that it is suitable for commercial applications as well.

The 23.9 CC engine does not disappoint. However, it has quite a few other features to boast,

  • It consists of the aluminum clutch housing. While you might be thinking what difference does it make: but it improves the string trimmer significantly. It prevents the clutch from overheating. That is why; it becomes suitable for commercial applications.
  • I prefer the solid steel shaft drive which it provides. Due to the solid steel construction, the vibration is on the lower side.
  • It offers a spindle lock as well. which makes it easy to change the attachments.
  • The features like purge primer. 1 7.6-ounce fuel capacity and rugged fuel tank protectors make it sturdy enough for commercial use.

The string trimmer also offers added convenience due to the padded front and rear handles. Due to these handles. Not only is the vibration on the lower side. But it does not cause any hand fatigue. With so many features available. It does not come as a surprise that it is reliable and easy to use a string trimmer.


Remington RM2510 (Gas Budget)

Remington RM2510 Rustler 25cc 2-Cycle 16-Inch Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer, 16 Inches, Black
  • 25CC GAS ENGINE: QuickStart technology Engine to make pull starts easier.
  • CURVED SHAFT: Curved shaft design makes cutting and trimming parts of your lawn more comfortable and balanced.
  • DUAL LINE BUMP HEAD: Avoid interrupting your yard job! Simply tap the head on the ground to feed more line on your trimmer.
  • 095? line: Thicker line for more durability and greater control getting those thicker patches of grass and shrubs.
  • 16-INCH CUTTING SWATH: Trims wider sections of tall grass in less time.Spark Plug Gap:. 0.025 inch

Last update on 2024-05-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The 25 CC gas engine of the string trimmer provides it with more than enough power. The curved shaft design means that you can precisely control the operation of this trimmer. Wondering what else it has on offer? It has many features like:

  • The cuttings width is 16 inches, That is why; you can deal with tall grass as well.
  • With the help of a double line bumper head, extending the trimmer line is easier than ever.
  • The quick-start technology certainly reduces the amount of effort needed.
  • With the ultra-lightweight design! Using it for an extended time is not going to be a problem. It is suitable for small as well as medium-sized lawns.

When you compare it with other string trimmers on this list, it offers more value for money. If you’re looking for a highly precise string trimmer, I would say this one would be a perfect choice. Along with the curved shaft, you can gain the precision that you are looking for when strimming them weeds.


DEWALT DCST920B (Best Battery Weed Eater)

DEWALT 20V MAX* XR String Trimmer, 14-Inch, Tool Only (DCST922B)
  • Folding hinge to fit into small storage spaces**
  • Reduced length when folded for easy transportation**
  • 14 in. swath for a wide cutting area
  • Durability even in the thick brush
  • Choose between performance and runtime with variable-speed trigger

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Do you prefer an electric battery powered string trimmer instead? If yes, this one will meet all your requirements. First of all, it has a cutting width of 13 inches. That is why; it can tackle small and medium-sized lawns quite quickly and efficiently.

With the help of brushless motors, the maintenance is on the lower side. The noise is on the lower side as well. Brushless motors reduce electricity consumption. Which means that it is more economical to run as well. It comes along with a lithium-ion battery. The low electricity consumption due to brushless motors helps you reduce the frequency of charging

However, that’s not all. Some of the other features include:
  • A feature that I like is the variable trigger with speed control. It allows you to have greater control over the weed removal and the grass trimming process.
  • With a weight of just 8.5 lbs, moving it around and maneuvering it precisely is not going to be a problem. Also, it will not cause hand fatigue due to the same.
  • With a weight of just 8.5 lbs, moving it around and maneuvering it precisely is not going to be a problem. Also, it will not cause hand fatigue due to the same.
  • It consists of a dual 0.80-inch line. It comes with bum feeds as well. Due to this reason. precisely trimming the grass and weeds is easy.
  • The motor consists of a patented gear drive design. The advantage of this design is that it can provide torque as well as high trigger speed even when dealing with a lot of grass and weeds. You will not have to go over the same area again and again. It will save you time.

Since it consists of electric design: you won’t have to worry about pulling any cords either. There is a proper trigger to start it almost instantaneously. Also: not just the maintenance of the motor IS on the lower side, but you won’t have to worry about things like spark plugs or air filters either due to the durable construction.


BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer/Edger:

Sale
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* String Trimmer / Edger, 12-Inch (LSTE525)
  • Converts from trimmer to wheeled edger; Amp hour: (2) 1.5 ampere hour
  • Power drive transmission for increased torque
  • 2 speed control for more power or extended runtime. Line diameter: 0.065 inches; Cutting swath 12 inches
  • Easy feed allows you to advance your line with the push of a button with no bumping required
  • Part of the 20V Max system; 1 system endless tasks. Power for your style

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It’s about research and reading how others have found the product and these bad boys have experienced an increase in their demand, particularly the 20V String Trimmer Kit model this is down to the excellent features and the robust build. It can also transform into a wheeled edger, which is a brilliant bonus. Both versions have a capacity of 1.5 Ampere Hours. Another great thing about this trimmer is that its Power Drive transmission increases its torque, which makes it perfect for the task at hand.

The Black + Decker String Trimmer/Edger has double the speed control, which extends its runtime for an estimate of the runtime is around 20-30 minutes. It also contains an EasyFeed feature that allows the user to advance their line without bumping, by just pressing a single button. The 20V MAX system inside this tool makes it ideal for several tasks, adjusting to the gardener’s style, without mentioning how convenient is the fact that the Power Command family of garden tools, which includes the EasyFeed, PowerCut, and PowerBoost, alleviates any frustrations that homeowners could have with their outdoor equipment.

Another thing that this model has covered are the batteries. Made of lithium and accompanied by a Charger, Guard, and an AFS Spool, the Black + Decker String Trimmer/Edger can last a long time. This is perfect for one of those days where you are required to do a lot of work, right? Although the user must be mindful of energy consumption, one of the things they need to keep an eye out when it comes to product specifications.

Features

  • Converts from trimmer to wheeled edger
  • Two-speed control
  • Easy feed system (for line reload)

Sun Joe Lithium-iON Cordless String Trimmer

Sun Joe iON100V-16ST-CT 16 in. 100-Volt Max Brushless Lithium-iON Cordless String Trimmer, Tool Only
  • [CORE TOOL]: Battery and charger sold separately
  • [16" SWATH]: Cuts a crisp Swath up to 16” wide in one pass
  • [RAPID-RELOAD]: Innovative Rapid-Reload system makes for fast and easy trimmer line replacement, as simple as a twist of the wrist
  • [VARIABLE SPEED]: Speed selection featuring turbo setting for a quick burst of speed When a little extra power is needed
  • [WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED!]: Your new string trimmer is backed by the snow Joe + Sun Joe customer promise. We will warrant New, powered products for...

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This one has been selling like hot cake as well, as per their Amazon page. Its core tool is mostly comprised of a battery and a charger, which are sold separately. Another great thing about the Sun Joe Lithium-i0N Cordless String Trimmer is its 16″ Swath. This fellow right here, as its name implies, can easily cut a crisp swath up to 16″ wide, and all in one pass, something that is extremely convenient, especially for those who want a quick and efficient job.

This trimmer comes with a Rapid Reload feature, thus, allowing the buyer to replace the trimmer line with ease by just twisting their wrists. It also has a speed selection with a turbo option, adding more efficiency to the mix and covering the user’s need for extra power, something a lot of people hold dear when it comes to their work in the garden. The Sun Joe Lithium-iON Cordless String Trimmer also has a juicy offer that comes from their manufacturers: They’re warranting New, powered products for two years, from the date of purchase, as long as the buyers contact their customer support for further assistance. One final thing about this product is that it’s battery-powered, providing a cordless experience, as its name implies.

Features

  • Rapid-reload (for line)
  • Variable speed
  • Compact Storage

Greenworks (Electric)

Greenworks 4 Amp 13" Corded Electric String Trimmer
  • Adjustable telescoping shaft to fit the user’s height. Convenient cord lock to prevent accidental unplugging
  • Lightweight construction
  • Includes a 3 year warranty

Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Greenworks 4Amp is a new tool. It has a 13″ inches cutting path that allows the user to complete their job in less time, making it as efficient as the other products that have been described so far. As its name implies, the Greenworks comes with a powerful 4 amp motor that adds more velocity into the mix. With these two combined, tackling tough weeds will be like a walk in the park, pun intended.

Another great thing about the Greenworks 4Amp is that it has a 0.65″ dual-lined head with an auto-feed feature that simplifies the process of cutting the line. Also, the trimmer shaft can rotate with ease, which allows an accurate edging, which is crucial for a finely groomed yard, something a lot of gardeners look forward to when they buy their tools. One more thing is that it has an adjustable telescoping shaft that adjusts to the user’s height, adding comfort to the list of qualities that make the Greenworks unique.

Features

  • 13″ Cutting path
  • Trimmer shaft rotates
  • Lightweight 7lbs

BLACK+DECKER (Electric)

BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer with Auto Feed, Electric, 6.5-Amp, 14-Inch (BESTA510)
  • Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) technology of the edger/trimmer eliminates bumping for hassle-free line feeding that helps you work without...
  • The 6.5 amp motor and POWERDRIVE Transmission of the grass cutter provide maximum performance when trimming through the toughest weeds, grass,...
  • 2-in-1 trimmer/edger with wheeled edge guide - just rotate to convert from lawn trimmer to wheeled edger
  • Lightweight design with adjustable handle and height positions provide maximum comfort and control
  • Cord retention system prevents accidental cord disconnection

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In this section, it’s the 14-inch’s time to shine. This Black + Decker model allows the user to advance their line with the push of a button, pretty much like its sibling from the BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 of this article. This fellow right here has a 6.5 amp motor and a Power Drive transmission that increases the performance during the task, making the user trim the toughest weeds, grass, and overgrowth with ease. Another great thing about the Black + Decker is the fact that it has an edge with a wheeled guide that can rotate to convert from trimmer to wheeled edger.

This string trimmer is full of surprises. Its lightweight design comes with an adjustable handle and height position, allowing the user to work with more comfort and control, which is for sure that a lot of gardeners require both experienced and first time buyers. This Black + Decker model also has a cord retention system that eliminates the worry of accidentally disconnecting the cord. After all, that’s one of the things anyone would dread to think about when it comes to buying a trimmer for the first time.

Features

  • Easy feed (for line)
  • 2 in 1 Trim or Edge
  • Lightweight 5.3lbs

String Trimmer Buyers Guide

Whether it is a neat grass edge you are looking for or planning on tackling a meadow our guide on how to choose the best String Trimmer should help you get the best string trimmer that is just right for you.

Once you have your lawn cut the job of getting the lawn to look perfect is to tackle any unruly stray grass around the edges and any obstacles, the solution in most cases will be a string trimmer to get that perfect lawn look you are after.

The string trimmers come in three different power options we will cover all of them below to help you get the best match for your type of garden it also may be worth pointing out that some people call them to weed whackers.

String Trimmer Power Types

First, we must cover the main thing that you will come across and that the power types each have their benefits and negatives and one may suit you better than the next person the thing to do is see how we describe and list there pros and cons below and then see which one matches the closest to your needs.

Mains Electric String Trimmer

These are generally the cheaper option on the market that need plugging into your mains electric, they are designed for light tasks only like cutting your grass edges and around obstacles.

With all power tools that have an electric cord, you have to bear in mind the size of your garden to see if you can get to the furthest part with the cable.

They do weight much lighter than all the other types of trimmers witch is great if you have a big area to cover, keep in mind the cable length.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use
  • Quiet
  • Low Maintenance
Cons
  • Less Power
  • Small cutting swath
  • Limited reach with cord
  • Can’t handle brush

So we recommend these if you have a small to medium size garden that only requires small tasks like edging your grass and other obstacles, you can read our Top 3 Mains Electric string Trimmer Picks Here if however, you will be taking on bigger jobs you may need a different powerpoint.

Battery String Trimmer

The battery string trimmer normally takes a little jump in price from a corded trimmer as you are paying for the convenience of not trapping around a cord, and this alone will be a price worth paying.

So just like the cord strimmer, they don’t pack as much as a punch as let’s say an oil trimmer but they will be perfect for someone who has a small to the large garden that only needs to edge around there grass.

It’s worth saying even though you don’t have to trap the cord around with you and that gives you a much greater reach the battery does come with its disadvantages, I’m sure you will be able to guess the main one run time, models will run for 30/60 minutes so if you need it longer you will need extra batteries.

Also on the battery front if you have some other power tools that are battery operated and it’s the same brand it may be worth checking if they are compatible as this may just save you buying extra.

Pros
  • Big Reach – no cable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use
  • Quiet
  • Low Maintenance
Cons
  • Extra batteries
  • Small cutting swath
  • Less Power
  • Limited reach with cord
  • Can’t handle brush

So there we have it that should cover the pros and cons of a battery string trimmer and give you a good idea on what there ideal use is, we recommend them for people with any size garden that will only be tackling light tasks see our Best Battery String Trimmer Picks Here if this isn’t your ideal fit then we recommend looking at the next power option gas.

Gas String Trimmer

Last but not least of the power options and it’s the most powerful one the gas-powered string trimmer, These are the powerhouse of string trimmers and what you want if you have a big job on your hands.

These are designed for cutting large areas of long heavy brush, they are generally much heavier than all the other power types as you are lugging around a petrol engine. They’re great for big jobs but don’t tend to lend themselves to well to little jobs like lawn edging as they can be two powerful but there are two power options below that may help here.

Two-Cycle Engine is a little less powerful and maybe the best of both worlds, they will edge your lawn if you go easy and will be able to tackle brush.

Four-Cycle Engine is the most powerful model and if you are tackling a garden jungle then this will cope just fine, they are quieter than the two-cycle engine and run cleaner.

Pros
  • large cutting swath
  • Can tackle big brush
Cons
  • HeavyMore focus on big tasks

So there you have gas string trimmers covered and separate power options that gas has we find that gas string trimmers are more suited to people who have larger gardens and regularly tackle long brush. Here is our Top 3 Gas String Trimmer Picks Here

Type of String Trimmers

There are three different types of string trimmers, well we say that but there is what we all think of when thinking to string trimmer long pole with a string that spins on the end (putting it crudely).

The second type is a brush string trimmer they are just like our crude description that we used above but are much sturdier build and have a thicker line to tackle thick brush.

Then you can get a walk behind string trimmer, these are not normally used in domestic gardens and are more suited for anyone that needs to cover a very large area of thick brush.

String Trimmer Features

Extra features are not always needed but can at times make getting your job done quicker and easier and we will cover them below to help you decide if the feature is something that you want or you are happy if you don’t get it.

String Trimmer Rotating head

A rotating head is just that a rotating head that allows you to rotate the head vertically to tackle grass edges and up against walls.

String Trimmer Wheel

This is a basic addition that can be useful, the wheel supports the weight of the trimmer and allows you to push your trimmer along giving your arms a rest.

String Trimmer Telescopic shaft

This will allow you to move the shaft to best suit you’re your height.

String Trimmer Head Angle

Some trimmers will allow you to angle the head so you can get under garden furniture this one is a little gimmicky.

String Trimmer Handles

Some mainly gas will come with double handles this will allow you to swing your trimmer in an arc getting the job done quicker.

String Trimmer Loop Handle

Corded and Battery will more likely have this type of handle it will allow you to hold your trimmer from different angles; they also come on gas trimmers.

String Trimmer Harness

Mostly on gas-powered trimmers the harness will reduce the strain on by taking the weight off your arms.

Line, blade and line-feed systems

Grass string trimmers will come with one of the following cutting systems line, blade or line-feed system

Line and line-feed systems

Trimmer line feed system will break if it hits anything hard and not wrap around creating a mess, it will wear down after some time of trimming and break off, you will then need to feed out more line here are the different feed styles.

Bump Feed

You simple bump the trimmer head on the ground and it will push out extra line.

Automatic Feed

When you start your trimmer line will auto-feed out giving you a new length.

Manual Feed

The user stops the trimmer and has to manual pull out the line.

With all the different feed systems it’s important to remember to regular feed some line out so it doesn’t get to sort and go back into the head, this is not a disaster but is a pain to take the head off and feed it again.

Some trimmers will have double string these are great and get the job done quicker but the downfall with them is that it’s a little trickier if you do need to feed more line.

Trimmer String to replace is not very expensive I would always by an extra spool when you buy your trimmer and when you run out to buy another this way you will never run out.

Blade Trimmer

Blade Trimmers don’t have to worry about feeding line, lose a blade and you simply clip a new one back on and you’re ready to go.

The problem with blade trimmers is that there not made to tackle anything big and people may find trimming to close to the floor will lose you a blade.

The blades are also a lot more expensive than a string so this is something to bear in mind when making your choice.

Brush Trimmer

For brush trimmers, they can come with a head that has a string and then you remove the head and replace the string with a metal plate to tackle brush.

Best String Trimmers FAQ

What are string trimmers used for?

String trimmers are generally used to edge the lawn where a lawnmower cannot get to they also have other uses like tackling long grass.

What are the best string trimmer brands?

This all depends on the type of power output you want and we have listed the best here.

Gas – We would go with Husqvarna or Tanaka two well respected and powerful brands a new brand is in the gas-powered market now they are Remington who if you’re on a budget well worth giving a go.

Battery – DeWALT is taking over the battery-powered power tool market at the moment but you won’t go wrong with a BLACK+DECKER.

Electric – Greenworks if you are looking for budget and BLACK+DECKER if you are looking for something a little more substantial.

How does string trimmer work?

A string trimmer works by rotating a line of string spinning very fast at the end of a pole enabling it to cut long grass.

Can I use a trimmer to cut grass?

There is a caveat to this one it’s a yes but only long grass that you need to cut to a manageable height so that you can then use a lawnmower on if you try to cut sort grass this can lead to scalping of your grass. 

What string trimmer do professionals use?

Professional in nearly all cases will use a Gas string trimmer like the one in our best list above.

How do you cut long grass and weeds?

If your grass is over the knee then you will not be able to use the best lawnmower, slowly mover the string trimmer in slow side to side action staring high then moving your way to the bottom doing this will lead to less flying object but you can still get them so always used protective clothing.

Why does my strimmer line keep breaking?

This is one of the people’s main problems and it’s when your line hits a hard object like concrete or a tree if your line is breaking cutting brush then you can get a thicker line to prevent this. 

Is Thicker trimmer line better?

It completely depends on the job at hand if you are looking to get a neat lawn edge then a thick line may be too much and lead to ripping the edge and making it look untidy to no thicker trimmer line is not always better. strimmer line comes in many different lengths and thicknesses so you will be able to find one that suits the job at hand.

Conclusion

So that should have you pretty much covered when it comes to choosing the best string trimmer for your yard if you have any questions just drop a comment below and I will do my best to help you out.

You won’t go wrong with any of the eight that we give you above but I really like the Husqvarna Gas String Trimmer but if you chose a different model from the list then you won’t go wrong and I’m sure you will be more than happy with the best String Trimmers for you and your yard.