If you want a clean-cut, manicured, and weed-free lawn, you need a good string trimmer. So, we researched popular models at some of the biggest retailers in the U.S. (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon, and Walmart) to find the best string trimmers available to homeowners across the country.
Our list includes gas and electric models, and we review each one so you can find the best grass trimmer for your lawn. We even include a handy buyer’s guide to help you make a wise purchase.
Top picks
Top 4 gas string trimmers – Reviews
Gas string trimmers are usually better at tackling thick grass and weeds than battery-powered models, and they aren’t tethered to an outlet like their corded electric counterparts. If you think gas is the way to go, see our reviews of some of the best gas string trimmers below.
1. Husqvarna 128LD – Best overall
Since 1689, consumers have enjoyed Husqvarna’s quality and innovation. So it’s no surprise that the Husqvarna 128LD is our favorite gas string trimmer. Even large-yard homeowners can tackle the toughest weeds with its powerful 28-cc engine and durable T25 trimmer head. Loading its spool is easy because it has a split design that prevents tangling.
The 128LD has several handy features, including:
- Husqvarna’s Smart Start with air purge for quick and effortless starting.
- A detachable staff makes it easy to transport and store.
- Additional attachments include a hedge trimmer, pole saw, and edger.
Specifications
- Cutting width: 17 in.
- Engine: 28-cc, 2-stroke
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 11.11 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Handy attachments ✓ Powerful ✓ Easy start ✓ Easy storage | ✗ Not comfortable to use for users over 6 feet |
Where to buy
2. Ryobi RY4CSS – Runner-up
If you want a powerful gas string trimmer but also want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider the Ryobi RY4CSS with a 30-cc 4-cycle engine. You won’t have to mix oil and gas, and it releases less emissions than 2-cycle engines. Its potent power combines with an 18-inch cutting swath, allowing you to cut through thick grass and dense weeds quickly.
Its special features include:
- Transparent fuel tank so you can tell when you’re due for a refill
- Additional attachments
- Easy-load bump-feed system
Specifications
- Cutting width: 18 in.
- Engine: 30-cc, 4-stroke
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 12.25 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Powerful ✓ Doesn’t burn oil ✓ Wide swath ✓ Easy to load string | ✗ If you use it for a long period, it can overheat ✗ High-maintenance |
Where to buy
3. Husqvarna 128CD – Best curved shaft
If you have a small lawn, many flower beds, or hardscape features, consider the Husqvarna 128CD. It’s the best curved grass trimmer for residential use. Like the 128LD, it has a high-quality 28-cc engine, SmartStart, and intuitive controls. But it also gives you the control of a curved shaft with its T25C trimmer head. It’s great for trimming in tight corners and getting around obstacles.
Specifications
- Cutting width: 17 in.
- Engine: 28-cc, 2-stroke
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Curved
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 12.2 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Great for trimming around landscaping ✓ Powerful ✓ Easy storage ✓ Easy start | ✗ May not be comfortable for users over 6 feet ✗ Not as long of a reach as the straight trimmers on our list |
Where to buy
4. Homelite UT33650B – Best budget buy
The Homelite UT33650B is a potent gas trimmer that won’t break the bank. This straight-shaft string trimmer has a fuel-efficient 26-cc engine and an 18-inch cutting width. Although it doesn’t pack as much power as the other gas string trimmers on our list, it can still handle most dense growth. It’s also more comfortable to use than some other models because of its user-friendly operation and lightweight design.
The UT33650B’s features include:
- Clutched engine
- Adjustable handle
- Reel-Easy dual trimmer line bump-feed
Specifications
- Cutting width: 18 in.
- Engine: 26-cc, 2-stroke
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 10.5 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Easy to use bump feed ✓ Adjustable handle ✓ Wide swath | ✗ Sometimes it takes a few tries to start it ✗ Not as durable as the other gas trimmers on our list |
Where to buy
Top 3 battery string trimmers – Reviews
Battery-powered string trimmers are great for homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint, and they’re more convenient and maneuverable than corded electric options. The one downside is that they sometimes have a short battery life. If you want an eco-friendly string trimmer for a large space, check out our reviews below of some of the best battery-powered string trimmers.
1. Makita XRU15 – Best overall
If you want a quiet yet capable trimmer that emits zero emissions, consider the Makita XRU15. Its high-efficiency brushless motor runs on two 18-volt batteries. Makita batteries have long runtimes and fast charge times, and this cordless model comes with two extra lithium-ion batteries.
The XRU15b has all the bells and whistles we expect from Makita, including:
- Variable speed: Makita’s Automatic Torque Drive mode automatically changes speed, or you can select one of three speeds (3,500 – 6,500 RPM).
- Low vibration: Its steel shaft is durable and subjects the operator to less vibration.
- Extreme Protection Technology (XPT): It’s resistant to rust and water damage.
Specifications
- Battery: 18-volt, 5 Ah (4)
- Cutting width: 15 in.
- Line diameter: .080
- Line feed: Bump
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 10.4 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Durable ✓ Powerful ✓ Long runtime ✓ Fast charging ✓ Automatic variable speed | ✗ Expensive upfront ✗ Expensive replacement batteries |
Where to buy
2. RYOBI RY40290 – Runner-up
A more affordable alternative to the Makita XRU15 is the Ryobi RY40290. It has a brushless motor and a 40-volt 4 Ah battery, supplying supreme power for high functionality and long run times. Its 15-inch cutting width, .095-inch string, and five-year warranty give consumers great strength and peace of mind.
You’ll enjoy its ease of use with thoughtful user-friendly features, including:
- Reel Easy bump feed head with speed winder
- Carbon fiber shaft (lightweight and durable)
- Variable speed (2 speeds)
- Rapid charger
- Additional attachments
Specifications
- Battery: 40-volt, 4 Ah
- Cutting width: 15 in.
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Bump
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 11.05 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Fast charging ✓ Long warranty ✓ Thick line ✓ Long runtime ✓ Durable | ✗ Some customers complain that the bolts fall out |
Where to buy
3. Ego ST1623T – Best telescopic
Ego is an industry-leading innovator of lithium-ion-powered technology, and their Ego ST1623T telescopic trimmer doesn’t disappoint. It uses Ego’s Line IQ and Powerload technologies for a push-button line feed that offers professional results. It has a high-efficiency brushless motor, a 56-volt ARC Lithium battery, and a professional-grade dual .095-inch spiral-twist line.
Additional features include:
- Top-rated battery platform
- Telescopic carbon fiber shaft
- Digital speed selector (2 speeds)
Specifications
- Battery: 56-volt, 5 Ah
- Cutting width: 16 in.
- Line diameter: .095
- Line feed: Automatic
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft type: Telescopic
- Warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 14.95 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Durable ✓ Efficient ✓ Feature-packed ✓ Easy to load auto line feed | ✗ Batteries are expensive ✗ Heavy |
Where to buy
Top 3 corded electric string trimmers – Reviews
Corded electric string trimmers are affordable, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly. Their biggest downside is that they must stay plugged in while in use, so they can only be used close to an outlet. If you have a smallish property and want a quality string trimmer at a budget price, check out these reviews of the best corded electric string trimmers.
1. Greenworks 21142 – Best overall
Homeowners with small yards get tremendous value with the Greenworks 21142. It’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to use while swiftly handling routine landscaping. It has a 10-amp motor and a lengthy 18-inch cutting swath. Just ensure all your trimming is close enough to an outlet to plug in an extension cord.
The 21142’s perks include:
- Attachments: It’s compatible with Greenworks, Trimmer Plus, and Kobalt attachments.
- Ergonomic: It has a cushioned over-mold grip, an auxiliary handle, and a low-vibration design.
- Eco-friendly: It produces zero emissions.
Specifications
- Amperage: 10 Amp
- Cutting width: 18 in.
- Line diameter: .080
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Spilt
- Warranty: 4 years
- Weight: 11 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Eco-friendly ✓ Comfortable to use ✓ Compatible with multi-brand attachments ✓ Wide cutting swath | ✗ Must be near a power outlet ✗ Not good for big yards |
Where to buy
2. Ryobi RY41135 – Runner-up
Another excellent corded string trimmer is the Ryobi RY41135. With a 10-Amp motor and 18-inch cutting width, homeowners with yards one-quarter acre or less can trim the lawn in no time. It’s lightweight, durable, and super simple to start.
Its features include:
- Compatible with ten attachments
- Reel-Easy trimmer head (reload in less than a minute)
- Strong .080 trimmer line
Specifications
- Amperage: 10 Amp
- Cutting width: 18 in.
- Line diameter: .080
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 11 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Easy to use ✓ Eco-friendly ✓ Wide cutting swath ✓ Affordable | ✗ Must be near a power outlet ✗ Not good for big yards |
Where to buy
3. Black+Decker GH900 – Best lightweight trimmer
At just 5.5 pounds, the Black+Decker GH900 is the best string trimmer for homeowners who want to carry less weight. Although it’s not as powerful as previous trimmers on our list, its 6.5-amp motor and 14-inch swath give it the strength to handle small yards that are regularly mowed.
We recommend the GH900 for homeowners who are older, have limited upper body strength, or otherwise don’t want to lift a heavy power tool for long periods of time.
Its features include:
- Automatic feed spool
- Ergonomic design
- Smart Edge mode (For greater control and accuracy)
- Wheeled edger conversion
Specifications
- Amperage: 6.5
- Cutting width: 14 in.
- Line diameter: .065
- Line feed: Automatic
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 2
- Weight: 5.5 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Lightweight ✓ Comfortable ✓ Great for small yards ✓ Great for control and accuracy | ✗ Must be near a power outlet ✗ Not good for big yards ✗ Not as powerful as the other trimmers on our list |
Where to buy
Buyer’s guide to string trimmers
Wise shoppers know what to look for in a string trimmer, so we explain everything you need to know about the following factors and features.
Gas string trimmers
Gas-powered string trimmers give you the most bang for your buck, and the best gas string trimmers outperform the best electric models. However, gas trimmers are high-maintenance, and they release toxic emissions. They are also louder and heavier than most electric trimmers.
2-stroke vs. 4-stroke Engine
Most gas string trimmers have 2-stroke engines, but some have a 4-stroke engine. 2-stroke engines run on a mixture of gas and oil, but (like a car) 4-stroke engines run on straight gas and have a separate lubrication system. 4-stroke engines have more torque and less harmful emissions, but 2-stroke engines are more reliable and easier to maintain.
Engine displacement (cc)
The power of a gas engine is measured by engine displacement (cc). Engines with higher cc produce more energy at lower engine speeds.
Typical gas-powered string trimmer specs
| Engine displacement | 21 – 42 cc. |
| Cutting width | 10 – 20 in. |
| Weight | 10 – 18 lb. |
| Line width | .08 – .095 |
| Price | $125 – $630 |
Cordless electric string trimmers
Cordless electric string trimmers typically run on lithium-ion batteries. Although they’re lower maintenance than gas engines, lithium-ion batteries need replacing every few years. High-end battery trimmers get pricey, but the best battery trimmers for light-duty tasks are very affordable. Battery models don’t emit harmful fumes, but they have limited runtime.
Power and runtime
Batteries with more amp hours (Ah) run longer on a single charge. The power of a battery is measured by voltage (V). Higher voltage batteries typically require more Ah for the same battery life.
Typical battery-powered string trimmer specs
| Voltage | 12 – 80 volt |
| Amp hours | 2 – 8 Ah |
| Cutting width | 10 – 17 in. |
| Weight | 4.5 – 18 lb. |
| Line width | .065 – .095 |
| Price | $75 – $600 |
Corded electric string trimmers
Corded electric string trimmers are quiet, lightweight, and don’t emit toxic fumes. Unlike cordless string trimmers, corded models have unlimited runtime. However, they put you on a leash; you must stay close to an outlet. Corded trimmers aren’t great for large yards but are a low-maintenance and cost-effective option for homeowners with small yards.
Amperage
Corded power tools with more amperage (amp) current electricity faster, thus generating more power.
Typical corded electric string trimmer specs
| Amperage | 4 – 10 amp |
| Cutting width | 12 – 18 in. |
| Weight | 4.5 – 11 lb. |
| Line width | .065 – .08 |
| Price | $50 – $130 |
Cutting swath
The wider the cutting swath, aka the cutting width, the more ground is covered with each pass. Thus, string trimmers with a wide cutting swath quickly finish the job. Gas trimmers tend to have a wider swath than electric trimmers.
| Type of trimmer: | Gas trimmers | Electric trimmers |
| Average cutting width: | 17 inches | 14 inches |
| Typical range of cutting widths: | 10 – 20 inches | 10 – 17 inches |
Cutting line
When string trimmer shopping, consider a trimmer’s line diameter and line feed.
Line diameter: Trimmers with a thicker string work best on lawns with dense growth. Homeowners who keep up with lawn care typically need a .065 to .08-inch line diameter, but large or overgrown yards fare better with a line diameter of .08 to .095 inches.
Line feed: When a trimmer’s string wears out, the system feeds in the new string through a spool. Types of line feed systems include:
- Bump feed systems are slow but cost-effective because they conserve string.
- Fixed feed systems are faster than bump feeds but still preserve string.
- Automatic feed systems are the quickest but use more line than a bump or fixed feed trimmer.
Shaft
A string trimmer’s shaft connects its engine/motor to the top of the trimmer and houses the trimmer’s drive system:
- Straight-shaft trimmers are the most common. They have a longer lifespan, more torque, and better reach.
- Curved-shaft trimmers are more affordable, and they give the operator more control. They are better at maneuvering in tight spaces and around obstacles.
Weight
Lightweight trimmers are more ergonomic. Gas trimmers are typically the heaviest, while corded electric trimmers are the lightest.
FAQ about string trimmers
Weed Wacker, Weed Eater, and Whipper Snipper are all string trimmer brand names. The terms are often used interchangeably. Sometimes they are also called weed trimmers or grass trimmers.
A brush cutter is more potent than a string trimmer and is best for heavy-duty jobs.
Follow proper safety precautions to avoid injuries from a string trimmer’s thrown debris, loud noise, and sharp edges.
String trimmers are good for cutting down grass and weeds in tight spaces where a mower can’t reach, but you can trim your whole lawn a lot faster and with more precision with a lawn mower. Ideally, you’ll have one of each.
The best lawn mowers include:
● Toro TimeMaster 21199 (Best self-propelled gas lawn mower)
● Ego Power+ LM2114 (Best battery push mower)
● John Deere S140 (Best lawn tractor)
Removing leaves and other debris is another important aspect of keeping a pristine lawn. You can clean up leaves much more efficiently with a leaf blower than with a rake. We recommend adding a high-quality leaf blower to your lawn care arsenal.
The best gas-powered leaf blowers:
● Handheld: Echo PB-2520
● Backpack: Schröder SR-6400L
● Walk-behind: Yardmax YF1565
The best battery-powered leaf blowers:
● Handheld: Ego LB6504
● Backpack: Worx Nitro WG572
When to call a lawn care pro
If you want a pristine lawn with dense green growth, consider hiring a lawn care pro. Routine mowing and edging is affordable, and many crews will also help with bushes, landscaping, and lawn treatments. You don’t even have to be home for most appointments, so you can enjoy your day without worrying about the lawn.
Main Photo Credit: DonNichols | Canva Pro | License
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