Best Grass Trimmers: Lawn Beauty in Your Hands
Keeping your lawn tidy takes a lot of work, but a decent grass trimmer can make the job much easier. However, a low-quality trimmer can be a pain to own and use. To help you find the right one for your lawn, we have found the best grass cutters on the market.
BLACK+DECKER 6.5 Amp 14 in. AFS® Electric String Trimmer/Edger (BESTA510) (Discontinued By Manufacturer)
Best overall
This BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer is an excellent choice for most yards. It features a powerful 6.5 amp motor and easily converts to an edger altogether in an ergonomic design.
Pros
- Well-built
- Easy to use
- Quieter than gas trimmers
- Powerful cutting action
Cons
- Need a long extension cord
- Replacement spools may be costly
Review
Our top overall pick is the BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer which is an easy-to-use, efficient and powerful lawn trimmer.
This corded grass cutter is powered by a powerful 6.5 amp motor and has an Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) technology, which ensures that the line is fed automatically, eliminating the need for constant bumping. With a cutting width of 14 inches, this string trimmer can tackle the toughest weeds, grass and overgrowth, making it an excellent option for just about any lawn. However, you should avoid trying to cut any woody growth with this trimmer because that is not what it is intended for.
The 2-in-1 trimmer/edger comes with a wheeled edge guide, making it easy to convert from a trimmer to a wheeled edger. This design allows you to get close to fences and other obstacles, and the adjustable handle and height positions provide maximum comfort and control, reducing fatigue and ensuring a clean and neat trim. The cord retention system also prevents accidental cord disconnection, giving you peace of mind as you work.
The BLACK+DECKER is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for those with smaller lawns. Its 14-inch cut path ensures that the job is completed quickly and efficiently, while the 8000 RPM ensures maximum performance in all conditions.
While this grass trimmer has received excellent ratings, some users have identified some minor drawbacks. Some have mentioned that the line feed can be inconsistent, which may require frequent stops and starts to fix. It also only comes with one spool of cord, and some complain that the cord is expensive to replace.
The BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, efficient and easy-to-use lawn trimmer.
DEWALT DCST920B 20V Lithium Ion XR Brushless String Trimmer Baretool
Best premium
This powerful cordless grass trimmer from DEWALT is a premium option for making short work of your messy lawn. It has long-lasting battery life and is quiet while easily cutting through weeds.
Pros
- Easy to use with cordless battery power
- Battery life is very good
- Great power and performance
- Relatively quiet
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Battery not included
- Can be hard to clean after longer trimming sessions
- Guard is too small
Review
If you’re looking for a premium grass trimmer, the DEWALT DCST920B is a perfect fit for you.
When you are ready to get rid of cords and avoid the noise and mess of gas, then this trimmer is a great option. Featuring a brushless motor that maximizes efficiency and durability, it is perfect for both professionals and homeowners. It also features a dual 0.080-inch line with bump feed and a 13-inch cutting swath, as well as a variable trigger with speed control that allows you to adjust the speed easily.
This DEWALT trimmer is designed to make your lawn care tasks easier and more efficient.You can extend battery life with the hi/lo feature to select the speed. Even though it is battery-powered, it cuts through most types of grass and undergrowth very easily.
One of the most notable features of this string trimmer is its weight. At only 8.5 pounds, it is well-balanced and easy to maneuver, putting less stress on the user. This means that you can use it for extended periods without feeling fatigued. With that said, some users do say that the balance could be better for longer trimming sessions.
The DEWALT does not come with a battery, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you do not have one already. The battery is compatible with other DEWALT 20V MAX tools, which means you can use it for multiple tools in your arsenal. Another drawback that some users have noted is the guard is a bit small and can allow gravel and other debris to be tossed into the air.
Overall, the DEWALT DCST920B is a high-quality, well-built trimmer with a battery that lasts a long time on one charge. We think that this is a solid premium choice.
Sun Joe TRJ13STE Trimmer Joe 13" Automatic Feed Electric String Trimmer/Edger
Budget pick
This budget-friendly Sun Joe grass trimmer is an excellent option for most lawns. It is small and easy to handle and incorporates an auto-feed feature making managing the cutting line easy.
Pros
- Great value for the money
- Easy to handle
- Auto feed feature is nice
- Works quickly
Cons
- Not as much power as other models
- Can be tricky to plug in
Review
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly electric string trimmer that can get the job done quickly and easily, then the Sun Joe Trimmer might just be what you need. With its powerful 4-amp motor and 13-inch cutting swath, you’ll be able to clean up your yard quickly and easily.
One of the standout features of this trimmer is its 180-degree rotating head, which makes it easy to switch between trimming and edging tasks. The ergonomic handle is also a nice touch because it adjusts to fit your comfort level and reduces fatigue during longer trimming sessions. At just 5 pounds, it is light and easy to handle while you work.
Another great feature of the Sun Joe is its auto-feed function, which ensures that you always have the right length of line for uninterrupted cutting. The flower guard is another added benefit, as it protects against accidental trimmer contact and helps keep your plants and flowers safe while you work.
While this trimmer is very good, some users have noted that the cord can be a bit short, which may limit your range of motion. Additionally, the plastic components of the trimmer may not be as durable as some users would like, so it may not be the best option for heavy-duty use.
However, if you are in the market for an affordable and reliable electric trimmer that can handle most trimming and edging tasks, then the Sun Joe TRJ13STE is definitely worth considering.
Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer/Edger with Command Feed, 12-Inch, Black and Orange
Best 2-in-1
This 2-in-1 cordless trimmer from Worx is a fantastic choice when you want to trim and edge for a tidy appearance. It is ergonomically designed and has a command feed spool system.
Pros
- Easy to switch from trimmer to edger
- Ergonomic design is comfortable
- Decent power for cordless trimmer
- Command Feed spool system makes line management simple
- Comes with 2 batteries
Cons
- Battery life may not be enough for larger jobs
- Takes practice to edge straight
Review
Our pick for the best 2-in-1 is the Worx Grass Trimmer which features an adjustable handle and special Command Feed spool system. The cordless design means that you don’t have to hassle with long extension cords or messy gas engines.
The Worx WG163 Command Feed spool system means more stopping and starting, bumping or turning it over to extend the line. Instead, you just press the command feed button and continue to work. This feature makes it easy to extend the line while you work, allowing for uninterrupted trimming and edging.
Another feature that makes this cordless trimmer stand out is its ability to convert easily to an edger or vice versa in seconds. The 90-degree tilting shaft also orients the cutting head for the sloped and hard-to-reach areas, making edging a breeze. The adjustable handle ensures maximum comfort and control, and the telescopic shaft adjusts to the user’s height and posture.
Weighing in at only 6 pounds, the Worx trimmer is lightweight and easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue during use. It also features a flower space guard that not only helps protect vegetation but also acts as an edger guide. A front auxiliary handle with 7 locking adjustments adds to the user’s comfort while trimming, edging, or mowing. Some of these features take time to learn to use, but they are great to have.
While there are many positive aspects of the Worx, the 20-minute battery runtime may not be sufficient for larger lawns.
Overall, the Worx WG163 GT Cordless Grass Trimmer is an excellent tool for homeowners looking to keep their lawn looking neat and tidy with minimal effort. Its innovative features, lightweight design, and ease of use make it a great investment for any homeowner.
Ryobi One ONE+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion String Trimmer/Edger and Blower Combo Kit 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included
Best blower/trimmer combo
This grass trimmer and blower combo by Ryobi is a great choice for getting 2 useful tools at one time. They are both battery-powered and offer a good combination of power and convenience.
Pros
- Blower and trimmer work together well
- Decent battery life
- Easy assembly
- Relatively quiet
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Line may tangle at times
- Blower is a bit underpowered
Review
Keeping your yard clean takes a lot of effort, but this Ryobi Grass Trimmer/Blower combo is a great way to get two jobs done efficiently and easily.
One of the most notable features of this combo kit is its lightweight design. Both the trimmer and blower are easy and comfortable to use, making them ideal for yard work that requires extended periods of use. The trimmer features a 10-inch cut swath and an auto-feed line head, allowing for quick and easy line replacement. The rotating shaft also makes it simple to transition between trimming and edging.
The cordless blower is perfect for clearing hard surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, and patios. It includes a debris scraper for loosening stubborn dirt and leaves, and the adjustable speed control allows you to adjust the airspeed to your specific needs. Don’t expect this to be as powerful as a gas blower, but on the good side, it is not as loud.
The included 18V ONE+ battery and charger are compatible with all RYOBI tools in the ONE+ family, making it a versatile and cost-effective solution for those who already own other ONE+ tools. The battery life is excellent, allowing you to tackle even the toughest jobs without worrying about running out of power.
One drawback of this kit is the relatively short run time of the blower, which users have reported lasts around 20 minutes on a single charge. Additionally, the auto-feed feature on the trimmer can be a bit finicky, leading to some frustration during use. However, overall, users are extremely satisfied with the power, performance, and value of this combo kit.
We think that the RYOBI Grass Trimmer and Blower combo is a great choice for people who want to keep their lawn nice and tidy with no mess or fuss.
Lawn trimmer buying guide
A lawn trimmer, also known as a grass cutter or edger, is a gardening tool that helps you maintain the appearance of your lawn and garden. With the right lawn trimmer, you can easily cut and shape grass and other plants in hard-to-reach areas, giving your yard a clean and well-manicured look. However, with so many different types and models available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect lawn trimmer for your needs.
What is a lawn trimmer?
A lawn trimmer is a gardening tool that uses a rotating string or blade to cut grass and other plants. It can be used to trim the edges of your lawn, along fences, walls, and other obstacles, and to maintain the appearance of your flower beds and garden. There are several different types of lawn trimmers available, each with its own unique features and capabilities.
Types of lawn trimmers
There are two main ways that lawn trimmers are powered: gas-powered, corded electric, and battery-powered.
1. Electric string trimmer
These trimmers are powered by electricity and are typically corded, meaning they require a power source. They are lightweight and easy to use, making them a good option for small lawns or for those who don’t want the hassle of dealing with gasoline.
2. Cordless string trimmer
Cordless string trimmers are powered by a rechargeable battery, making them portable and easy to use. They are a good choice for small to medium-sized lawns and for those who want the convenience of not being tethered to a power source.
3. Gas string trimmer
These trimmers are powered by gasoline and are typically more powerful than electric string trimmers. They are ideal for large lawns or for those who need to trim thick, heavy growth. However, they can be more difficult to handle and maintain than electric trimmers.
In addition, there are different ways that trimmers can operate, so it is important to choose the right one for your lawn type. The most common is a corded string trimmer which uses a nylon cord to cut while you hold the trimmer and move it as needed. Here are some other options:
4. Multi-tool trimmer
Multi-tool trimmers are versatile and can perform multiple functions, including trimming, edging, and pruning. They typically come with interchangeable heads, allowing you to switch between functions quickly and easily.
5. Walk-behind trimmer
Walk-behind trimmers are large, self-propelled machines that are designed for use on large lawns. They have a wide cutting swath and are ideal for trimming tall grass and weeds, but they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Types of spool feeders
When you buy a grass trimmer, it will have a specific feeding style that allows you to continue trimming when the cord inevitably breaks. You want to consider which one will be best for your needs.
Automatic feed spool (AFS)
This type of spool feed automatically feeds the line as needed, without requiring the user to stop and manually adjust the spool.
Bump feed spool
This type of spool feed requires the user to bump the bottom of the trimmer on the ground to release more line.
Fixed-line spool
This type of spool feed features a pre-cut length of line that is fixed in place, and when the line is worn down or broken, the spool must be replaced.
Manual feed spool
This type of spool feed requires the user to manually advance the line by pulling it through the feed head.
Command feed spool
This type of spool feed allows the user to extend the line with the push of a button, without stopping the trimmer or bumping it on the ground.
Twist feed spool
This type of spool feed requires the user to twist a knob or lever to advance the line, rather than bumping the trimmer on the ground.
Features of lawn trimmers
When choosing a lawn trimmer, there are several important features to consider, including power, size, and weight.
Power
The power of a lawn trimmer is measured in amps for electric models and cubic centimetres for gas-powered models. The higher the power, the more efficient and effective the trimmer will be at cutting grass and other plants. Cordless models are measured in volts with 20-volt models being the most common.
Size
The size of a lawn trimmer refers to the length of the cutting shaft and the size of the cutting head. A longer shaft can be useful for reaching high or hard-to-reach areas, while a larger cutting head can increase the trimmer’s cutting capacity.
Weight
The weight of a lawn trimmer can affect its maneuverability and ease of use. A lighter trimmer will be easier to handle, especially when trimming for an extended period of time, while a heavier trimmer may be more durable and stable.
Care and Maintenance
To keep your lawn trimmer in good working condition, it is important to follow a regular maintenance schedule, which may include oil changes, air filter cleaning, and blade or string replacement. Additionally, it is important to store your trimmer properly, away from moisture and extreme temperatures, to prevent rust and other damage.
Safety information
When using a lawn trimmer, it is important to follow all safety precautions, including wearing protective gear such as ear protection, eye protection, and gloves. Additionally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, to avoid tripping or hitting obstacles, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance.
Conclusion
A lawn trimmer is a valuable tool for maintaining the appearance of your lawn and garden. With the right trimmer, you can easily cut and shape grass and other plants, giving your yard a clean and well-manicured look. By considering the types, features, care and maintenance, and safety information discussed in this buying guide, you can find the perfect lawn trimmer for your needs and keep your yard looking its best.
