String trimmers, also known as weed eaters, are an indispensable gardening tool.
They are incredible grass cutting and lawn maintenance tools in all of the locations where a lawnmower cannot help.
Typically, string trimmers are used in locations such as corners where a mower won’t fit, or in the delicate edges between your grass and driveway.
With a string trimmer, you can cut crisp and precise lines near fences, edge beds, near trees, and structures.
String trimmers are also suitable for trimming grass on irregular terrain or steep ground, such as a rocky hillside.
Now, if you’re ready to use one of these landscaping tools, you might probably be interested in knowing which the best string trimmer in the market is.
See, string trimmers are available in a variety of styles and come with different capabilities and functions.
The wide assortment of the string trimmers can make choosing the right model quite difficult.
Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you.
In the review section below, we take a peek at the top models in the market and compare their features, performance, and more.
Hopefully, by the end of this review guide, you should confidently choose a trimmer that is suited for your needs in your next purchase.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick!
PRODUCT NAME | Cutting Width (Inches) | Dimensions (Inches) | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|
13.0 | 67.8 x 10.9 x 8.8 | ||
17.0 | 68.38 x 13.5 x 10.25 | ||
13.0 | 46.5 x 13.5 x 11 | ||
Other Great Recommendations | |||
13.0 | 46.8 x 10.2 x 5.1 | ||
17.0 | 12.2 x 10.25 x 40 | ||
13.0 | 46.5 x 13.5 x 11 | ||
Best 6 String Trimmers/Weed Wackers On The Market For The Money
#1 DeWalt 20V Max Lithium-Ion XR String Trimmer- Best Overall
The sheer power of the DeWalt 20V Max Lithium-Ion XR is enough reason to purchase this cordless string trimmer.
And given that you can count on this DeWalt trimmer to last for years, it surely helps to justify the price.
Powerful Battery
Under the hood of the Dewalt, we've a 20V, Li-Ion 5-amp battery from the Dewalt line.
This battery packs a punch, and will easily power the trimmer through thick, tough and overgrown grass with a similar power that is more or less of the gasoline-fueled trimmers.
The battery is compatible with other Dewalt tools, so it's interchangeable, and no need to purchase extra batteries. It's also easy to replace when you finally need a new battery.
The battery is further bolstered by the brushless motor that ensures that you can easily get rid of the toughest weeds and grass.
The brushless motor is designed to work fast, even in the thick turfs that normal trimmers can't seem to handle
Convenient
The Dewalt is a cordless unit, and you'll love the convenience of using this trimmer as they're no cord to fuss with.
The absence of cords plus a lightweight nature (less than 9 pounds), lets you enjoy loads of maneuverability. The Dewalt trimmer is not only easier to move around, but it's lighter for you to carry, therefore eliminating the possibility of back pain.
Finally, with this batter-battery unit, you’ll not have to worry about fumes or worry about leaving a carbon footprint.
Dual Line
Dewalt trimmer comes with dual cutting lines, whirling around a 13-inch swath.
The large cutting capacity lets you cut a pretty wide path without having to go over it again and again.
Further, the dual-line bump feed gives you control of the trimmer and ensures that you do not end up using more than necessary. This is handy as you won't need to purchase as much replacement line.
Variable Speed Trigger
The Dewalt is a well-balanced trimmer with greater torque, and it boasts of a variable trigger with a 2-speed control.
Besides letting you use the trimmer for extended periods, the variable speed works fast and will give you more control, especially when you need more power.
The net result is that this trimmer will make your tasks a lot easier.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Balanced
- Ergonomic grip
- Easy to start
Cons
- Fixed head- users would have loved to see a swivel head
Check Dewalt Lithium Ion Xr Price On Amazon
#2 Husqvarna 129 LK - Best Gas Trimmer
The Husqvarna 128LD is a versatile string trimmer designed to suit your trimming needs in your home or yard.
Husqvarna is a reputable brand known for creating quality products, and the Husqvarna 128LD is among their most popular weed eaters.
Like a majority of the diesel-powered units, the Husqvarna 129LK powerful enough to match any weed or grass cutting task you put it.
28cc Engine
Husqvarna 129LK is a 2-cycle string trimmer powered by a 28cc engine from Husqvarna.
The 2-stroke engine uses both gas and oil mixture and will not provide any issues when starting.
In particular, the Husqvarna 129LK is fitted with plenty with several useful adaptations that will make it easier to use.
The Smart Start technology, for instance, lets you fire the engine effortlessly, and won’t take more than two pulls to get the unit running.
The air purge feature, on the other hand, removes the air from the carburetor and fuel system, allowing an easy start of the trimmer every time you start it.
In a nutshell, the engine on Husqvarna 128LD will not give you a headache to start.
Another vital aspect of this engine is that it's capable of performing a variety of tasks without impeding the overall performance.
Cutting Swath
The Husqvarna 129LK has a generous cutting swath of 17-inch.
This wide cutting width is attributed to the broad cutting base that lets you cover a large area in a short period.
We also love the fact that you can fit the trimmer head with several attachments for various landscaping tasks such as trimming, edging, sweeping, cutting, or pruning.
Weight
Traditionally, gas-powered trimmers are associated with bulkiness and weight.
Surprisingly, the Husqvarna 129LK is a lightweight model.
Weighing at 11 pounds, this unit will not weight you down, and it will allow you to do all the hard landscaping without straining.
Besides lightness, we love how the entire weight on this trimmer is evenly distributed, meaning it will not bog you from one side.
Detachable Shaft
The 40 inches long shaft will strike a balance between functionality and maneuverability.
The shaft will allow you to trim the hard to reach spots, and at the same time, allow easy movement.
Regarding storage, the manufacturer is considerate of your storage option and has designed the Husqvarna 129LK with a detachable shaft.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Translucent fuel tank
- Easy to store
- Large cutting path
Cons
- A tad noisy
Check Husqvarna 1289LK Price On Amazon
#3 BLACK+DECKER 40V (LST136) - Best Battery Powered Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 is an incredible fit for a majority of the urban and suburban yards.
Though not as powerful as the gas-powered Husqvarna 128LD, it’s sufficient enough to work on the weeds and grass not thicker than ¾”.
A lightweight model, the 8 pounds BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 won’t tire you quickly as the heavier weed wacker.
A highly multi-purpose landscaping tool, the BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 serves more than a trimmer, but it doubles up as an edger.
Powerful Battery
The BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 is powered by a 40-V max lithium-ion battery.
Unlike the nickel-powered trimmers, the Lithium-Ion will provide you with incredible run time.
If the reviews are anything to go by, the battery on this unit will get you around 50 minutes on a single charge, and this is more than sufficient time to make considerable trimming.
Power + Command Dial
The Power + Command lets you to adjust the level of power you need, allowing you to get the most from the battery.
It optimizes the power from the motor to the cutting string.
For instance, if you’re working on the thick grasses, you can set it to maximum power, but when your demands are lower, you can knock it down.
This ensures that the battery juice is not wasted.
Automatic Line Feed Spool
The automatic line feed spool is a big time-saver.
This feature allows you to work continuously without needing to adjust the spool manually.
Again, it will save you from the need to make frequent adjustments in the pool.
Adjustable Height and Handle
The shaft on the BLACK+ DECKER 40V LST136 measures 52 inches and this is long enough to let you reach the hard to reach spots.
Better yet, the shaft is customizable and can be adjusted depending on your trimming needs.
Therefore, regardless of your size, the BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 is ideal for your needs.
PowerDrive Transmission
The PowerDrive is an innovative feature that the manufacturer claims it helps in providing the cutting string with more force.
The presence of this feature does not impede mobility or longevity, but it boosts the power of the BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136.
Pros
- Lightweight-7.8 lbs
- 13” Cutting swath
- Versatile use
- Adjustable
Cons
- Curved shaft makes it challenging to maneuver
Check BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136 Price On Amazon
#4 Black & Decker ST7700 - Best Budget String Trimmer
If you're on a shoe-string budget and still want a string trimmer that packs a punch, you should look at the Black & Decker ST7700.
While it does not have the frills and frays of a premium string trimmer, it comes with quality basic components that will deliver an incredible landscaping experience.
4.4 Amp Electric Motor
At the very core of the Black & Decker ST7700, we’ve a 4.4 amp electric motor spinning at over 10,000 revolutions per minute.
The powerful and quick motor means you should have no problems cutting large swaths of tough grass, weed, and overgrowth.
Lightweight
A feather-light string trimmer, the Black & Decker ST7700 weighs a mere 4.5 pounds.
The lightness of this unit is one of the reasons why Black & Decker ST7700 is popular with the seniors, women, or those with back conditions.
Automatic Feed Spool – AFS
The AFS is a handy feature that, as its name suggests, automatically feeds and trims a fresh length of the line as needed.
This benefits you by saving your time, as you'll not need to feed the wire manually.
Groom ‘N’ Edge Edger
The Black & Decker is more than a trimmer.
The head-on the Groom ‘N’ Edge Edger can rotate up to 180 degrees, converting this trimmer into an edger in seconds.
Easy to Use
The Black & Decker comes with a built-in auxiliary handle, meaning your hands will not tires, even after prolonged use of the tires.
Plus, the presence of cord retention means you’ll no longer have to worry about the unplanned disconnection while cutting the grass.
Pros
- Ideal for seniors
- Versatile use
- Budget-option
Cons
- Not powerful
Check Black & Decker ST7700 Price On Amazon
#5 Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Straight Shaft String Trimmer - Best Commercial Grade Trimmer
The Husqvarna 128LD is a heavy-duty string trimmer with plenty of desirable features.
A powerful and durable unit, this string trimmer has all the properties you would need for the lightweight commercial tasks.
28cc Engine
The 28cc, two-stroke engines will generate more than sufficient power output of 1-hp to tackle the toughest cutting requirements.
Compared to other engines, the 28cc will provide you with power while at the same time reducing the overall fuel consumption and lower noise levels.
2-Stroke
While the 2-stroke engines are usually an inconvenience due to the need for mixing fuel and oil. Howvere, they're popular because of their numerous benefits.
For a start, the 2-stroke engines feature less moving parts, meaning they’re more reliable and less likely to go wrong.
More importantly, they help in providing robust pound-for-pound power compared to the 4-strokes. And with the case of the 128LD, you’ll realize that it’s powerful enough to cut the thick vegetation with ease.
The performance is further bolstered by the broad cutting base that offers 17" cutting width. This is to means that you can trim a large space in a relatively short time.
Straight Shaft Design
The straight shaft design on the 128LD will provide you with a longer reach than the curved models.
Also, the straight shaft on this unit will reduce vibration, wear, and tear and will allow you to reach the low bushes and edges with greater ease.
Smart Start
The Smart Start is a proprietary feature that will let you start this trimmer quickly and with ease.
Seniors and those with a joint problem will have a relatively easy time starting and using this model.
Pros
- Lightweight-18.8lbs
- Easy to use
- Powerful
Cons
- Plastic attachment joints
Check Husqvarna 128LD Price On Amazon
#6 BLACK+DECKER LCC222 - Best Value Weed Wacker
After trimming, a lot of debris appears on your lawn, and this why having a sweeper might come in handy.
The real selling point of the BLACK+DECKER LCC222 is the blower on this purchase.
Considering that you get a blower and a string trimmer at almost half of the price of some of the products on our list, you see why the BLACK+DECKER LCC222 is a value-packed trimmer.
20-Volt Battery
The BLACK+DECKER LCC222 is a battery-powered model driven by 20-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Battery.
While the 40V lithium battery and higher have entered the mainstream market, the former will still provide you with decent power and runtime.
Speaking of runtime, the BLACK+DECKER LCC222 comes with a runtime extension technology.
This innovative technology features dual-mode accelerator juice, and this will help in adjusting the speed accordingly, ultimately conserving battery juice when not needed.
2-in-1 Functionality
The selling point of the BLACK+DECKER LCC222 is probably the trimmer and leaf blower combo.
Indeed the BLACK+DECKER LCC222 is an incredible string trimmer with a slew of desirable features and benefits.
The exceptional battery holds a charge for a long time, and it has an awesome transmission for better cutting power.
Pros
- Value-packed trimmer
- Extended runtime
- Powerful
Cons
- Has lots of plastics
Check BLACK+DECKER LCC222 Price On Amazon
Crucial Features To Consider When Purchasing a String Trimmer
If you’re purchasing a string trimmer, there are a few crucial factors you need to consider. These include:
String Trimmer Type
The two popular string trimmers are gasoline and electric.
While the gas trimmers are powerful of the two, they’re noisy and often leave a carbon footprint.
Electric trimmers, on the other hand, are relatively less powerful, but they're significantly quieter and cleaner than the gas trimmers.
Automatic Line Feed
An automatic line feed releases more line on the feeder.
Contrary to the bump feed, an automatic line feed is convenient and hassle-free as they don't require any extra effort to use.
Size and Weight
It’s crucial to determine the weight and size of a string trimmer.
Ideally, you should look for a unit that is lightweight and compact.
This will allow you to carry it with ease, without weighing you down.
Also, you need to consider a unit with adjustable shafts. A trimmer with an adjustable shaft will allow you to reach the farthest point, and at the same time allow easy storage.
Cutting Width
A trimmer with a large cutting width lets you complete your cutting fast.
A unit with a large cutting swath means that you’ll not have to go over a region repeatedly once you pass over it.
Conversion From Trimmer To Edger
For the ultimate versatility, you will want your trimmer to double up as an edger.
An edger is a handy time-saving feature that will allow more preciseness around the edges on your lawn, walkways, and flower beds.
FAQs
Is a string trimmer worth it?
If you know the problems that come with cutting grasses at edges, then the suitability of a string trimmer comes in. a good trimmer will shape the grass in areas where a lawn mower won't reach. Additionally, the trimmer is cost-effective when compared to the lawnmowers. It cuts in details making the outcome clean.
Can I hang a trimmer vertically?
It is recommended to hand the unit with the engine up to prevent fuel leakage and engine problems. Hanging vertically also helps support the item's weight. The process is also simple and quick to improve the trimmer's safety with the right hanging position.
How do I maintain the trimmer for long?
If you want to improve the durability of your trimmer, maintenance is crucial. Always clean and inspect your trimmer before embarking on the cutting. Change the oil and replace the air filters to improve efficiency. Also, store it properly.
What makes the trimmer keep stalling?
First, dirty fuel filters are the main cause of stalling trimmers. The filter blocks the trimmer from getting enough fuel. Cleaning the filter is easy, and replacing it is a good option. The best thing is that filters are cheap and obtainable. If you are set for efficiency, then get the proper filter for the task.
Conclusion
Trimming your grass and weed around your lawn is more step in mowing routine.
Having the best string mower will make a difference between a lawn that is cut and one that is carefully maintained.