8 Best Brush Cutters of 2023 – Reviews. Weed wacker metal blade

Trimmer Blades vs. String: Which is Right for Your Yard?

Summer is coming, and along with the great weather, it’s barbeque season. If you want to be able to spend time outside with your family and friends this season, you’ll need to tidy up your lawn. Many people find that their backyard has become overgrown with weeds, shrubs, and bushes during the spring. A weed eater can make quick work of the problem, determining if you should use trimmer blades vs. string is an important decision.

Now’s the time to cut your grass and clear away any unwanted and overgrown plants. An overgrown yard can become a breeding ground for insects such as mosquitoes and spider mites.

The easiest way to maintain a small lawn with many borders, paths, or obstacles, such as washing line poles, is using a strimmer. If you prefer a strimmer to a lawnmower, you may be wondering which is best, trimmer blades vs. string?

Brush cutters have metal blades, while trimmers use nylon string to cut through grass and weeds. Let’s find out what the differences and similarities are between these two options!

Trimmer blades vs. string

The main difference between trimmer blades vs. string is the method used to cut grass, shrubs, and weeds. A brush cutter or strimmer has metal blades, while a strimmer uses pieces of nylon string to cut the grass.

You may think that blades are more efficient or more robust as they are made from metal, but this isn’t always the case. Nylon string moving at high speeds is also very powerful and can cut through grass and weeds.

Metal blades are slightly more durable and robust, but it depends on your purpose as to which you should choose. A string trimmer can generally only be used to cut through weed and grass, while a brush cutter with a metal blade can also cut down shrubs, bushes, and even small trees. Let’s look at each type of strimmer in more detail and discuss the pros and cons of each.

String trimmers

There are a wide variety of string trimmers available on the market, and these are either powered using a rechargeable battery or an electric cord. You can also buy a string trimmer that’s powered by gas. Which you choose will likely come down to personal preferences and the size of your yard.

If you choose a string trimmer with an electric cord, you’ll need to ensure that the cord reaches across your yard, and you’ll need a power socket in a convenient location. If the line isn’t long enough, you’ll only be able to trim the area that’s near the power source, or you’ll need to buy an extension cable.

Investing in a battery-powered string trimmer may cost more but will also be a lot easier to use and more convenient. You’ll be able to move around more and won’t be limited by a cord. You will need to remember to keep the battery recharge.

Generally, electric-powered string strimmer’s are cheaper than gas-powered, and these often need less maintenance. They are great for people who have small yards and only need to cut through grass and weeds.

Best Brush Cutter Blade In 2023 [A List Of Top 6 Picks]

A gas-powered string trimmer will allow you to cut a larger area and are generally more powerful than their electric counterparts. String trimmers are great for cutting grass and weeds in hard-to-reach areas. You can cut the grass along borders, fences, paths, and beside decking or the edge of your house.

The benefits of a string trimmer

String trimmers are lightweight and are very simple to operate. They don’t require much maintenance and can be used to cut your grass and weeds in hard-to-reach areas.

The disadvantage of a string trimmer

When compared to a trimmer with a metal blade, the main disadvantage of the string trimmers is that they are less powerful and can’t be used to cut through shrubs, bushes, and trees. The strings can also snap easily, which can be annoying and dangerous. Sometimes small rocks end up flying out from underneath the trimmer like projectiles when the string snaps. It’s, therefore, best to wear protective goggles when using a string trimmer.

Metal Blades

Many gardeners see the brush cutter as an upgrade to a string trimmer, but it depends on your purpose as to whether this is actually the case. A brushcutter has powerful metal blades instead of nylon strings which means you can cut through stubborn weeds (weeds that look like grass) and shrubs, bushes, and even small trees.

Trimmers with blades can be used for heavy-duty work. On many brush cutters, the blades are interchangeable, which means you have more options on the type of job you do than with a string trimmer.

Brush cutters are available with either gas engines or are electric-powered, either using a cord or a battery. As brush cutters are more heavy-duty, you need to be more cautious and be safe around this machine. Brush cutters are designed to be used either one or two-handed.

The benefits of a brush cutter

The main benefit of choosing a brush cutter with a metal blade rather than a string trimmer is that it’s more powerful, and you’ll be able to cut through thicker stems, which means you can cut bushes, shrubs, and small trees. Like string trimmers, brush cutters can also be used in areas that are hard to reach with a lawnmower.

Most brush cutters come with interchangeable blades, and these are generally very durable and won’t need to be replaced or changed very often.

The disadvantages of a brush cutter

Brush cutters are generally heavier than string trimmers and are slightly cumbersome, especially if you need to use them on a large area. They are also more expensive as they are longer lasting and have a more powerful performance.

Which is best for your yard: Trimmer blades or string?

Brush cutters are powerful and versatile as it has interchangeable blades and can cut through thicker steams. However, it can be a cumbersome and exhausting machine to use. It would help if you were fit and strong to use a brush cutter as you’ll use your body’s weight to support the machine, which could lead to back pain.

If you’re looking for a trimmer to clear a small area around the perimeter of your home or under your decking, a string trimmer will do the job well. These are generally budget-friendly don’t require much maintenance.

Conclusion

When choosing a machine with trimmer blades vs. string, you should consider the types of undergrowth you have in your yard. String trimmers are great for most gardeners as they are lightweight and easy to use.

They are also relatively cheap and allow you to cut hard-to-reach areas. If you need a more powerful machine to cut through thick shrubs, bushes, and even small trees, it’s best to invest in a brush cutter with a metal blade.

Best Brush Cutters of 2023 – [Reviews]

Brush cutters, also known as clearing saws, weed wackers, and weed eaters, are among the most versatile landscaping tools.

These devices can cut through saplings and chop down thick weeds, but which brush cutter is right for your yard and your needs?

To help you sort through dozens of these yard tools, we’ve picked the 8 Best Brush Cutters based on power, weight, and durability.

Top 8 Brush Cutters – Reviews

Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI

Best Overall

Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI

The Badger WPB26BCI straight shaft 2-in-1 grass trimmer and brush cutter is a versatile, powerful tool at an affordable price.

The 2-in-1 Wild Badger Power Brush Cutter and Grass trimmer gives you the power of a commercial-grade tool at the price of most electric versions.

This brush cutter has a shaft length of 57 inches, which allows a fair amount of distance between you and the blade when in use.

Weighing in at 12 pounds, it’s lightweight and comes with a harness so you can tackle large distances with ease.

Noteworthy: This brush cutter includes an automatic kill switch so you can quickly and safely turn the tool on and off, and its ergonomic soft-grip handle allows for comfortable use.

This brush cutter has a cutting diameter of up to 17 inches and has a twist and load string trimmer spool that allows for easy trimming.

Its full crank design also allows for reduced emissions, increased fuel efficiency, and a longer life, which can be a downfall of some other grass cutters.

Big perk: This brush cutter has a warranty of up to six years, which is the highest of any tools on our list.

• Weight: 12 lbs
• Power Source: 26 cc gas engine
• Shaft Length: 57 inches
• Cutting Width: 17 Inches
• Type of handle: One hand loop handle
• Can cut through up to 1-inch saplings
• Warranty: 6 years

✓ Excellent warranty, up to six years✓ Inexpensive✓ Powerful

✗ Can’t cut through thick brush.✗ May vibrate more than some other brush cutters. ✗ May need to purchase a larger guard for extra-protection from debris.

Echo SRM-225U (17″) 21.2cc 2-Cycle Straight Shaft Brush Cutter

Best for Small Yards

Echo SRM-225U Straight Shaft Brush Cutter

The Echo SRM-225’s great fuel efficiency and reliable engine make it perfect for small yards.

The Echo SRM-225’s great fuel efficiency and reliable engine make it perfect for small yards.

With a durable debris shield and cut off knife, you won’t have to worry about debris flying at your face while trimming and cutting.

Noteworthy: This brush cutter has an anti-vibration handle and padded grips to help lessen fatigue and keep you comfortable during your cutting. It also self-lubricates to keep your blades running smoothly.

With a 21.2 cc engine, this brush cutter is on the lower end for some other gas-powered machines. This brush cutter’s engine means it works best for small properties and may not be able to handle small trees, thick branches, or dense bushes.

This brush cutter has a cutting width of 17 inches, which is the average size and should cut through grass with one sweep.

One significant benefit of this brush cutter is its 59-inch shaft, which allows for a large amount of distance between you, the blade, and flying debris for safe use.

Nice feature: This brush cutter’s 2-cycle motor is also great for small properties because its smaller, lighter, and easier to maintain than 4-stroke counterparts.

• Weight: 12 lbs
• Power Source: 21.2 cc gas engine
• Shaft Length: 59 inches
• Cutting Width: 17 inches
• Type of grip: One hand loop handle
• Warranty: 5 years

✓ Lightweight✓ Good cutting width✓ Anti-vibration handle✓ Long shaft

✗ It may be challenging to find replacement pieces. ✗ Doesn’t come with a shoulder strap.✗ Lower power engine than most gas brush cutters

Husqvarna 128LD Detachable Gas String Trimmer

The best-selling 128LD is your go-to gas trimmer when you need a powerful and easy-to-use tool for grass, weeds, and more.

The super-versatile Husqvarna 128LD Gas Trimmer is well-suited for small and medium-sized lawns. It has a powerful 28 cc engine and a cutting width of 17 inches, so you can chop down dense weeds and grasses with one swing.

This brush cutter has a 2-cycle engine, which works on a mixture of unleaded gas and oil, and includes a translucent fuel tank to easily check if your ratio is correct.

This brush cutter has a 53.93-inch straight shaft, which protects you while also helping trim hard-to-reach branches.

Nice feature: This brush cutter includes a Tap ‘N Go line release feature that easily releases new trimmer line as you are working.

Some of the attachments for this brush cutter include an edger with a 2-inch cutting depth and a cultivator that’s great for smaller areas and consists of a 6- to 9-inch adjustable tilling width. The Husqvarna 128LD can also attach to a pole saw, which works best for treetop limbs and can cut branches up to 6 inches in diameter.

• Weight: 11 lbs
• Power Source: 28 cc gas engine
• Shaft Length: 53.93 inches
• Cutting Width: 17 inches
• Type of grip: One hand loop handle
• Warranty: 2 years

✓ Lightweight✓ Multifunctional ✓ Great cutting width ✓ Great shaft length

✗ On the higher end for price.✗ Less power than other gas brush cutters

Troy-Bilt TB42 BC 27cc 2-Cycle Gas Brush Cutter

Most Versatile

Troy-Bilt TB42 BC Gas Brush Cutter

The Troy-Bilt TB42 can cut through most dense vegetation, and its 18-inch cutting path lets you get your yard work done quickly.

The Troy-Bilt TB42’s four-tooth brush steel blade can cut through most types of dense vegetation, and with its 18-inch cutting path, you can get your yard work done quickly.

One Amazon reviewer noted that this Troy-Bilt brush cutter’s adjustable J-shaped handle is ideal for left-handed people (as well as right-handed).

As the jack of all brush cutters, this tool is attachment capable and works with 10 different Trimmerplus additions, transforming from a pole saw to an edger with ease.

The shaft length on this trimming tool is rivaled only by the Ryobi Brush Cutter and is great for getting under shrubs and reaching tall branches.

Nice feature: 27 cc gas engine is Jumpstart capable, so you don’t have to worry about pull cords.

✓ Excellent shaft length✓ Great cutting width✓ Good power rating

Iglobalbuy 52cc 5-in-1 Multifunction Grass Cutter Trimmer

Power Pick

Iglobalbuy 52cc 5 in 1 Multifunction Grass Cutter Trimmer

This Iglobalbuy tool is the most powerful gas brush cutter on our top 10 list, and it’s also one of the most affordable.

This Iglobalbuy multifunctional grass cutter trimmer is the most powerful gas brush cutter on our top 8 list, and it’s also one of the most affordable.

This versatile trimmer comes with a 3-tooth heavy-duty metal blade attachment to cut through brambles, thick overgrowth, nettles, and dense shrubs.

This is a 5-in-1 brush cutter and can be used as a strimmer, hedge trimmer, pruner, extension pole, and trimmer, and can be useful for both residential and commercial landscapers.

Cool added safety perk: Safety is paramount when using a brush cutter; that’s why this trimming tool comes with gloves and earmuffs to keep your hands and ears damage free.

Considerable disadvantage: The biggest downside to this brush cutter is its weight. Because it has such a powerful engine, this brush cutter weighs a heavy 32.6 pounds, which would be hard to carry around your property without a harness.

This brush cutter has a substantial shaft length of 43.31 inches, but you may need the extension pole attachment to reach tall branches.

✓ Great price✓ Excellent power✓ Good cutting width✓ Good shaft length✓ Multifunctional

RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer

This Ryobi string trimmer has a good cutting width of 15 inches, perfect for small to medium yards.

All you have to do is turn on the Ryobi Cordless String Trimmer and get to work — no dealing with the hassle of mixing oil and gas. This is one of the most affordable brush cutters on this list, and with a 40 v engine, it rivals most gas cutters.

This Ryobi string trimmer has a good cutting width of 15 inches for small to medium yards, and you should be able to cut through grasses and weeds with ease and only have to go over spots once.

Disadvantage: This brush cutter has a shaft length of 29.5 inches, which is still long enough to be protective, but may not be the best for reaching high branches.

Advantage: This brush cutter has a great warranty of up to five years.

• Weight: 11.3 lbs
• Power Source: 40 V 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion battery
• Shaft Length: 29.5 inches
• Cutting Width: 15 inches
• Type of grip: One hand loop handle
• Warranty: 5 years

✓ Lightweight✓ Affordable✓ Great cutting width✓ Great warranty✓ Can cut saplings up to an inch thick.

✗ Possibly too short of a shaft length depending on the job.

Makita EM2650UH 4-Stroke Brush Cutter

The Makita EM2650UH brush cutter has a 4-stroke engine, making it quieter and lowering the amount of toxic emissions it releases.

With the longest shaft of any tool on this list, the Makita EM2650UH can cut even top-tier branches. This brush cutter has a 4-stroke engine, making it quieter and lowers the amount of toxic emissions it releases.

This brush cutter works best if you have a small to medium-sized yard and was designed to be compact and easy to store. This brush cutter’s shaft is also made of steel, which helps keep its vibrating to a minimum to lower fatigue and increase your tool’s life.

Unique features: This brush cutter includes a Mechanical Automatic Decompression System, which encourages quick and easy stops and starts. You also can access the filter without tools for easy maintenance.

Disadvantages: Compared to other brush cutters, this Makita tool has a smaller cutting width and puts out less power, and it is one of the most expensive on this list.

✓ Lightweight✓ Excellent shaft length✓ The adjustable bike shaped handle helps keep you balanced when cutting.

✗ Expensive✗ Small cutting width✗ Lower engine power for the price

Husqvarna 336FR 966604702 Pro Brush Cutter

The Husqvarna 336FR costs close to a commercial-grade tool, with the features to make it worthy of that price point.

As the Cadillac of the brush cutter world, the Husqvarna 336R costs close to a commercial-grade tool, with the features to make it worthy of that price point.

• A 34.6 cc X-torq engine that helps reduce harmful emissions without limiting power.
• A shaft length of 58.4 inches means this brush cutter provides a significant amount of protection between you and the blade, and the bike handlebar allows for greater control and comfort.
• With a weight of 15.4 pounds, the Husqvarna 336R comes with a harness that helps to distribute the weight across your back, shoulders, and chest so you can carry it for long distances.
• Versatility: This brush cutter comes with a trimmer head, grass blade, and saw blade and cuts a substantial 17-inch path, so you can easily handle a variety of landscaping projects with one tool.

Important to note: The cutting guard attachment works with both the grass blade and trimmer attachment to help keep you protected.

✓ Powerful engine ✓ Lightweight✓ Great cutting width ✓ Great shaft length ✓ eco-friendly than other gas-powered tools ✓ Includes a harness

✗ Expensive ✗ The engine may seize if you don’t use the proper oil to gas ratio.

Buyers Guide

How To Choose The Right Brush Cutter For Your Property

If this is your first time shopping for brush cutters, where do you begin? How do you find the right brush cutter for your yard and your needs?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a brush cutter and short definitions for some key terms:

Yard size: For a small yard, an electric brush trimmer likely is perfect. For larger yards, gas cutters are easier to maneuver (because they aren’t tied to a cord), but these tools tend to be heavier. If you have a lot of ground to cover, look for a gas-powered brush cutter with shoulder straps to make your yard work easier on your back.

Head size: The larger the head, the more distance you can cover with one swath. This means you can get the job done faster, but it might be difficult to cut around small corners. Smaller heads can get in those nooks and crannies of your yard but may require you to go over the same spot more than once to cut all of the brush.

The right-size blade: Brush cutters can be dangerous, and using the right-size blade can help keep you safe. For example, using a small blade on a thick branch or rigid tree can result in injuries to the user and the breakdown of your equipment.

Knowing the size of the blade recommended for the materials your cutting is essential to keeping you safe and increasing your equipment’s life.

Gas vs. Electric Brush Cutters

Almost all options on our list for the 9 Best Brush Cutters are gas-powered, but there are several capable electric choices out there. Gas-powered and electric brush cutters each have advantages and disadvantages, and here is a quick summary of the differences.

Electric brush cutters

Electric brush cutters tend to be more similar to string trimmers, as they are lightweight, quiet, and easier to maneuver. Like their trimmer counterparts, though, some of the downsides of electric brush cutters are their lower power and distance limitations because of their cord.

For small properties and lower budgets, electric brush cutters could be the way to go.

Gas brush cutters

Gas brush cutters are excellent for large yards in terms of power but these tools tend to be heavy. Gas brush cutters can be more expensive, but with multiple attachments and increased maneuverability, these tools give you a lot of bang for your buck.

Most gas brush cutters also come with anti-vibration technology, which many electric cutters don’t have.

How We Chose Our Top 8 Brush Cutters

When you are shopping for brush cutters, these are key factors to consider:

Weight: Weight is always something to consider when buying any landscaping tool, but it is crucial when purchasing a brush cutter. You need to carry this tool around your yard, so if you don’t have a harness or shoulder strap, you may not be able to get through trimming your yard without taking a break or two or three. Having too heavy of a brush cutter also can lead to lowered maneuverability and injury.

Price: The brush cutters on our list vary greatly in price. Some are under 200, and some cost more than a riding lawn mower. Most homeowners don’t need commercial grade equipment, and there are affordable and quality options for your personal landscaping needs.

Power: Electric brush cutters on our list range in power from 18 to 84 volts. The gas options on this range between 21.2 and 54 cc. For medium to larger yards, a gas-powered brush cutter with more than 27 cc of power is the way to go.

Shaft length: Shaft length is important for a few reasons. The longer the shaft, the more distance between you and the blade, which is important for safe landscaping. A longer shaft also helps you reach branches without needing an extension pole, but too long of a rod can be challenging to maneuver, leading to fatigue.

Cutting width: Cutting width is the cutting head’s diameter on your tool and the cutting width on most brush cutters ranges from 10 to 18 inches. The length of your cutting head determines the amount of greenery your device can cut in one pass. Having a larger cutting width helps if you have a large yard and/or dense vegetation, but a shorter cutting width is best to maneuver through small spaces.

FAQ About Brush Cutters

Because of their benefits, 4-cycle engines tend to be the more praised of the two.

4-cycle engines are fuel-efficient, quiet, environmentally friendly, and pack more of a punch as they generate power through torque instead of RPMs.

They’re so eco-friendly that some states even require landscapers to use only 4-stroke trimmers for their limited impact on the environment.

2-stroke engines, however, are cheaper, more lightweight, and are easier to store and maintain. These engines work on fewer parts and offer less vibration, which can help lower fatigue.

Most of the brush cutters on our list run on a 2-cycle engine, and for small residential properties, staying within your budget and saving on storage may be more appealing.

Brush cutters can be dangerous, so follow this safety checklist whenever you’re using a power tool to trim, prune, or cut thick grass or tree limbs:

— Wear protective goggles or face shields, and long pants, gloves, and boots. — Don’t wear loose clothing or long jewelry.— Do tie your hair back to avoid it getting caught in the brush cutter.— Use a brush cutter with a long shaft and deck guard to keep your face and body protected fr om the blade and flying debris. — Wear a shoulder strap or harness to lessen the brush cutter’s weight on your arms, lowering fatigue and preventing injury.— Pay attention while adding or mixing fuel with a gas-powered brush cutter, and always make sure the engine has stopped before removing the fuel cap.— The final and most important safety tip: If you feel you’re unable to use a brush cutter properly, hire a landscaping professional for your safety and the safety of others.

Conclusion

We compiled this buying guide and list of 9 best brush cutters to help you save time and money when shopping for one of these versatile tools.

There’s a brush cutter for every budget, yard size, and power preference, and adding this landscaping tool may change your lawn care game forever.

From slicing through saplings to chopping down thick brambles, whatever your yard needs, choosing one of these brush cutters can help you do it all.

LawnStarter participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other retailer affiliate programs. LawnStarter may earn revenue from products promoted in this article.

Note: Amazon star ratings and the number of reviews for the products listed above may have changed since that material was collected.

Leanna Doolittle

Leanna Doolittle is a freelance writer and photographer with a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida-Saint Petersburg. She enjoys spending time with her cat Oscar and tending to her many indoor plants and succulents.

Grazer : Best Powerful Electric Battery Operated Cordless Metal Blade Weed Eater / Grass Trimmer | Westfield Retailers

Grazer : Best Powerful Electric Battery Operated Cordless Metal Blade Weed Eater / Grass Trimmer | Westfield Retailers

Handle U-shape Variant sold out or unavailable D-shape Variant sold out or unavailable Color Green(6 inch blade) Variant sold out or unavailable Red(6 inch Blade) Variant sold out or unavailable Green(7 inch blade) Variant sold out or unavailable Red(7 inch Blade) Variant sold out or unavailable Battery 1 battery Variant sold out or unavailable 2 Battery Variant sold out or unavailable

Quantity ( 0 in cart) Decrease quantity for Grazer : Best Powerful Electric Battery Operated Cordless Metal Blade Weed Eater / Grass Trimmer | Westfield Retailers

Increase quantity for Grazer : Best Powerful Electric Battery Operated Cordless Metal Blade Weed Eater / Grass Trimmer | Westfield Retailers

Grazer : Best Powerful Electric Battery Operated Cordless Weed Eater / Grass Trimmer

Easily maintain and manicure your garden by regularly trimming overgrown grass with our heavy-duty metal weed eater. Fitted with a powerful 12V motor, the electric brush cutter / weed eater runs at 18,000 rotations per minute to easily cut through tough grass and weed.

Despite its powerful design, the Metal Blade grass trimmer is extremely lightweight and easy to carry around in the outdoor areas of your home. This way, you won’t have a hard time trimming off grass from your lawn, sidewalks, pathways, and more. Equipped with an ergonomic top handle, the battery powered brush cutter powers up with a single press of a button. Not only that, but the battery weed eater also comes with a handle on its mid-section for better maneuverability.

Best part of all, the cordless weed eater has a retractable metal guide that prevents the blades from cutting into concrete or rocks. Keep grass overgrowth from taking over your garden by using our premium brush trimmer. FEATURES MADE TO LAST. Constructed with heavy-duty aluminum and plastic, the battery operated weed eater is highly durable and does not wear down even through years of use. It’s equipped with ultra-sharp blades that cut through grass and branches with ease. ADJUSTABLE. For a better and more comfortable working experience, the cordless grass trimmer can be adjusted in length to match your height. With its handy telescopic design, the electric brush trimmer can be adjusted from 36.2 to 48 inches long without a hassle. ERGONOMIC. Equipped with a curved handle, the blade weed eater is easy to hold on to and control. It even comes with an adjustable auxiliary handle that helps you stabilize the electric weed eater when cutting grass. SPECIFICATIONS Idling Time: 2~3 Hours Item Width: 5.75 in Attachments Included: Edger Speed: 18000 RPM Power Source: Battery Contraction Length: 36.3in Blade Length: 6 in Battery Included: Yes Material: Aluminum Plastic Saw Blade Size: 150 mm/6″ Noise Level: 70 dB Item Length: 41.34 in Stretch Length: 1220mm/48in Charge Time: 2 Hours Battery Life: 120 min Battery Capacity: 3.0Ah Voltage: 24 V Item Height: 9.25 in Power: 600 W Saw Blade Max.Speed: 9000 RPM Cutting Diameter: 140mm PACKAGE CONTENT Lawn Mower Kit

1x Grass Trimmer / Brush Weed Wacker 1x Lithium-Ion Battery 1x Charger 1x Vice handle 1x Socket wrench 1x 6/7 Inch round blade 2x Straight stainless steel blade 5x Plastic blade 1x Instruction manual

Note: There are wheels mentioned on the manual. Wheels are extra attachment which does not come in package. It is an optional item. If you wish to buy it separately, feel free to message us.

String Trimmer vs. Brush Cutter – Different Tools for Different Jobs

Looking out at your perfectly maintained lawn on a beautiful sunny day is probably one of the most enjoyable things you can do. For those who don’t yet have that lawn, however, the idea of handling what seems to be the jungle that’s your property may seem to be a nightmare. What tools do you need to get up and going, and what’s the difference between these tools?

The difference between string trimmers and brush cutters is that string trimmers use strips of nylon to cut through light vegetation and grass while brush cutters use a metal blade for cutting back thicker overgrowths like thick brush and small saplings.

You can buy these tools separately or opt for a multi-attachment yard tool that is capable of serving multiple roles. I own a STIHL Kombisystem that has attachments for both string trimmer and brush cutter. Read on to learn the major differences between string trimmers and brush cutters, along with the pros and cons of each tool.

Check out the DynaTrap Mosquito Flying Insect Trap – Kills Mosquitoes, Flies, Wasps, Gnats, Other Flying Insects – Protects up to 1/2 Acre (link to Amazon).

String Trimmers: What They Are and What They Do

String trimmers, also referred to as weed whackers, are a specific type of handheld tool used for cutting back overgrowth in your backyard.

Best Brush Cutter Reviews 2023 | Best Budget Brush Cutters (Buying Guide)

As the name suggests, string trimmers work by using a small nylon string to cut back growth in your backyard. This string, moving very quickly, cuts through relatively thin vegetation such as grass or weeds that may be growing in your backyard. They’re light, easy to use, and help cover a large distance in a short time.

Important to note, however, is that string trimmers are only to be used for this trimming of small vegetation. The nylon string, though easy to replace, isn’t very durable.

What that means is that if you go over rocks or are trying to cut through another form of vegetation that’s too thick, you’ll likely not actually cut the vegetation and will just damage the nylon string. Though all you need to do to replace the string is pull more out from the storage compartment, it’s important to know.

Brush Cutters: What They Are and What They Do

Brush cutters, similar to string trimmers, are another handheld tool used to cut back overgrowth in your backyard, but the type of overgrowth it’s meant to cut is different. While it can be used on grass and weeds, brush cutters are to be used on thicker vegetation.

Unlike string trimmers, brush cutters have a metal blade that’s used to cut thicker items (source). If you have sumac bushes in your backyard, you’d want to use the brush cutter.

Brush cutters are also different from string trimmers in the fact that brush cutters are more durable than string trimmers. Because they have blades rather than just a nylon string, brush cutters can cut through thicker vegetation and will take more time to get dull or break when cutting smaller vegetation like weeds or grass.

However, when using brush cutters, if the blade were to be damaged, then, unlike a string trimmer, you’d need to replace the blade.

String Trimmers vs. Brush Cutters: Pros And Cons

Though both string trimmers and brush cutters share quite a few similarities, there are key differences between the two. Below is a complete list of the pros and cons of getting both a string trimmer and a brush cutter.

Pros of a String Trimmer

• String trimmers are light and very easy to use. Because string trimmers rely on a nylon string rather than a blade to cut the vegetation, string trimmers are generally very light and can be easily used even if the string becomes dull or breaks.
• String trimmers can be used as a lawn edger. If your house is situated on a curb or road, you’ll likely want to draw a sharp edge to your lawn so that grass and weeds don’t overgrow onto the road or curb. String trimmers can be used to cut these grass and weeds, making them easy to use as a lawn edger. See
• String trimmers are available in gas, electric corroded, and battery-operated capacities. Because string trimmers are so light, they don’t need nearly as much power to operate. This means that they can use ways to power the motor other than just a gas engine.

Cons of a String Trimmer

• String trimmers are weaker and can cut through less. Since string trimmers only use a small nylon string, they aren’t nearly as strong as a brush cutter. This makes it so they can cut through less, thus limiting their use.
• String trimmers turn small rocks into projectiles. Likely the worst part of a string trimmer is that they turn small rocks into projectiles that shoot at your legs. Though when these rocks hit you it’s not a serious safety concern, it can hurt fairly bad momentarily.

Pros of a Brush Cutter

• Brush cutters use a blade so that they can cut through more dense vegetation. If you have an area full of thick growth or simply are trying to cut through thicker vegetation, brush cutters are able to quickly cut through these objects with one chop.
• Brush cutters blades are more versatile. Just like a lawnmower, brush cutters have a number of different blades they can use to get the job done. This makes it so that they can cut a wider variety of things, and do a wider variety of jobs.

Cons of a Brush Cutter

• Brush cutters are heavier and slightly harder to use. Since brush cutters use a blade and have more parts, they’re generally heavier and harder to use. This also makes it hard to use brush cutters over a large area.
• Brush cutters throw materials back at the operator. While most string trimmers have a “grass guard” so that the cut materials don’t come back at an operator, brush cutters don’t. This makes them slightly more dangerous to use.

Final Thoughts

Though used for different things, string trimmers and brush cutters are very similar, both easy to use, and have a lot of similar uses. When considering which tool to purchase, think about what your lawn requires you to do. If unsure of the specific challenges your lawn will provide, getting a brush cutter might be the safer route to go.

Paul has a two-acre yard on red clay soil in Southeast Texas. He knows exactly what the challenges are to nurturing a thriving yard in difficult soil.Paul takes a practical approach to yard improvement and enjoys putting best practices and “golden rules of lawn care” to the test.

The Best Brush Cutter: Gas and Electric Options

If you’re at war with overgrown grasses and shrubbery on your property, you already know that a cheap low-powered weed whacker isn’t going to cut it. You need something more powerful. But how do you choose a brush cutter that will handle the bushy undergrowth you have? Do you want something that multitasks, or just …

If you’re at war with overgrown grasses and shrubbery on your property, you already know that a cheap low-powered weed whacker isn’t going to cut it. You need something more powerful. But how do you choose a brush cutter that will handle the bushy undergrowth you have? Do you want something that multitasks, or just a machine that’ll get the job done? Let’s get deep into the topic and find out everything you need to know about brush cutters and how they work.

• Powered by 80V Li-Ion Battery compatible with.
• Brushless motor, equivalent performance to 32cc.
• Powerhead shaft is attachment capable and accepts.

Other Good Choices From Amazon

Brush Cutters vs. String Trimmers: What’s The Difference?

While brush cutters and string trimmers are similar, you’ll want to pick what works best for your job. Let’s compare and contrast the two.

Your average garden-variety string trimmer uses a piece of cord to cut through light brush and weeds. As the nylon cord spins at a high rate of speed, it slices right through grass and weeds at the height you’re holding it. This makes it particularly useful for dealing with that explosion of dandelions on the lawn, and guarantees that you can keep the edges of planters tidied up with ease. But it won’t handle woody stalks or dried brush very well. They tend to have a less-powerful motor, too.

Using a spinning blade in lieu of cord, brush cutters gnaw through heavier stuff with ease. They may cause splintered wood or chips of stone to ricochet away from them, so wear long pants and sturdy shoes when using them for safety. While you can use these to trim the lawn, it’s just not as effective — these are made for destroying tumbleweeds or overgrown areas, not for yard maintenance.

Picking The Best One: What You Need To Consider

Before even looking at the various components of brush cutters or string trimmers, there’s a few aspects that need to be decided. These include your budget, what materials you’re cutting down, if it’s a small or large job, and whether you can handle the machine you are getting.

Budget

Typically, brush cutters cost more than string trimmers… quite a lot more, in fact. So it’s important to decide if your job actually requires that level of power before laying out the money. You might also be able to get a string trimmer that can use brush cutter blades, but dual-purpose models also typically cost more or require attachments. Electric is generally cheaper than gas, but doesn’t always have the same power behind its cutting capability.

What Are You Cutting?

If you’ve got a whole lot of hard, tall, or thick weeds, slender tree saplings, or overgrown bushy material, that’s when you will generally need a brush cutter. A good rule of thumb is that if the material you have to cut is a quarter of an inch in diameter and is brown, not green, you need the brush cutter.

Small or Large Job

Are you only working on a quarter-acre yard, or do you have five acres of property? The size of your job matters, in this case. If you’ve got a reasonably small yard, there’s alternatives to brush cutters which are a whole lot cheaper, but if you have a lot of property, you’re going to want to speed up the process of maintaining your land.

When It’s Too Much To Handle

Brush cutters are weighty beasts. They have to be, just to handle the rigors of demolishing the rough stuff. That’ll start to take a toll on you physically as you maneuver this big contraption around, so be mindful of how long you use your brush cutter.

Treat it like an exercise routine, because it can really be one. You’re directing a vibrating, heavy-weight implement around and keeping it stationary as it chews through heavy materials. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and if you start to get sore, it might be time to stop for the day.

Features To Look For

There’s some key features of both brush cutters and of string trimmers that you’ll need to be aware of before you buy.

Gas or Electric?

The vast majority of brush cutters on the market are gas powered, but you can find some crossover electric units that combine the relative quiet of an electric machine with the ability to use either string-trimming or bladed brush cutter attachments. Really, the choice is up to you, although finding a quality crossover unit can be quite difficult.

If all you need is a string trimmer, electric units are widely available and tend to be much lighter-weight than their gas-powered counterparts, which makes them easier to maneuver into tight spaces. However, electric options either use battery packs that wear down quickly, or they’re tethered by a power cord to their power source, which does limit their use somewhat if you’ve got a large area to clear.

Gas units are far noisier than electric, but you aren’t tethered to a power source, which is a perk. They also tend to be hefty, often coming with some form of harness to help you hold on to their drastically-increased weight.

Engine Power

Gas powered brush cutters come with either 4-stroke or 2-stroke gas engines. The main difference in the type of engine is in how they function.

• 4-stroke engines are heavier, give more power output, and run cooler. The design tends to be a bit unbalanced, is more complicated to maintain, and also tends to cost more.
• 2-stroke engines are easier to maintain, tend to operate with much more balance, and have smaller engines, making them well-suited for handheld garden tools.

Electric units tend to be available in 20 volt or 40 volt options, with occasional 60 or 80 volt versions available. 20 volts is fine for the average yard maintenance offered by a string trimmer, but to effectively cut through heavier materials with a metal or vinyl blade, 40 volts or more is recommended, and 60-80 volts is preferred.

Shaft Style

You can either have a straight or curved shaft. Usually a steel shaft, it’s what connects your working head to the cutter’s motor.

• Bent Shaft: Choosing a bent shaft will help you work closer to the project, but due to its design, these types are more likely to encounter mechanical issues. The best walk behind brush cutter will likely have a straight shaft.
• Straight Shaft: A straight shaft brush cutter has a more direct line to its power source. In addition, they often work better with various attachments than bent shaft models.

Handles

Since brush cutters tend to be heavy duty, good handhold options are essential. A double handle “bike handle” design or a looped handle offer good control and are the most popular options.

Both styles require both of your hands to control and direct the tool. Since you’ll likely be using blades for more serious work, a sturdy grip is key to staying safe.

Vibration

A lot of gas engines come with anti-vibration technology for when you aren’t using your tool, but the power is still on. The best brush cutters will try to minimize vibration while in use, but you will still be dealing with some consistent vibration that can cause muscle fatigue. They may even include an anti-vibration handle.

Electric engines tend to be either on or off. That means when you’re not actively cutting, they aren’t vibrating, and that can give you a short break from all of that vibration and noise.

Blade Material and Cord Diameter

If you’re investing a lot of money into a piece of equipment like this, you’ll want to consider the types of blade available for your unit, as well as the cost of replacement blades. Similarly, even string trimmers offer different diameters of cord, and units which use thicker cord often can handle more rugged cutting duties than their lightweight cousins.

Blades often are available in nylon or metal versions. In most situations, a metal blade is better as it can handle the heavy-duty materials with ease. Within that category, a steel blade is the best choice by far.

Nylon is generally meant for more typical lawn care solutions, as they rapidly get dinged up and can break far easier.

Overall, I personally prefer to go for the more heavy-duty options over the lighter ones, as you’ll be regularly replacing lighter cord or nylon blades and can get more longevity over the heavier options.

Quick-Change Heads And Other Add-Ons

In order for brush cutters to be more versatile, interchangeable heads and multiple attachments are a must. Selecting a model with an attachment system like this means it’s more affordable over time since it will work for both large and small tasks.

The most convenient and popular options come with a blade attachment and a string trimmer head, allowing you to use the brush trimmer to whack weeds and edge along with cutting heavier stuff.

A quick change function will let you switch out attachments using a lever or other simple tool, instead of needing to take off the whole head. This gives you convenience in swapping from nylon to metal blades, or replacing spools of nylon cord. But be sure before you buy that this option supports everything you want in your machine!

Best Brush Cutters Reviewed

Best Gas Brush Cutter

Remington RM2700 Ranchero 27cc 2-Stroke Brushcutter

Type	Gas
Weight	14.5 lbs before gas weight
Warranty	Limited manufacturer’s warranty
Motor Type	27cc 2-stroke
Features	Converts to string trimmer w/included attachment, can be blower/hedge trimmer/cultivator with additional attachment purchase.

The Remington brush cutter is powered using Quick Start technology, designed to give you easier and smoother pull starts. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and offers both string and blade options. It offers multiple attachment options as well, and can be turned into a cultivator, hedge trimmer, or blower (attachments sold separately).

The cons for the Remington Ranchero are that it requires about two minutes to warm up to full capacity, and that it might need tuning right out of the box to get it functioning as you want it. Neither one detracts massively from the Remington’s functionality, and it’s my personal pick for gas-powered cutters.

Other Good Gas-Powered Choices

Troy-Bilt TB42 BC 27cc 2-Cycle Gas Brushcutter

Type	Gas
Weight	14 lbs before gas weight
Warranty	Limited manufacturer’s warranty
Motor Type	27cc 2-stroke
Features	TrimmerPlus attachments available separately, can be trimmer, edger, pole saw, and more

The Troy-Bilt brush cutter has a full-crank engine, eliminating the necessity of an old-fashioned pull cord. In addition, its adjustable j-shaped handle gives you added control and works for left-handed or right-handed people. It has a 4-tooth, 8-inch blade for cutting through dense vegetation and is attachment-capable. However, it’s prone to tangling and can be tough to start. Overall, Troy Bilt makes incredible products, and this is a great option for thick grass and weeds.

TIMBERPRO 52cc Heavy Duty Split Strimmer and Brush Cutter

• Heavy Duty Strimmer and Brush Cutter with.
• Durable, high powered with a 52cc engine.
• Easy to start and operate,with shoulder strap and.

Type	Gas
Weight	13 lbs before blades/accessories/gas weight
Warranty	May have warranty, depends on seller
Motor Type	52cc 2-stroke
Features	Comes with a dual-line string trimmer head and three steel blades (3 tooth, 8 tooth, 40 tooth).

The TIMBERPRO 52cc isn’t just a brush cutter, but a trimmer as well, crafted with a split shaft function for convenient yard cleaning. It has a shoulder harness and bike-handle grips, and it’s easy to start and operate. It comes with a two-year warranty. However, it’s expensive to repair if something develops a fault, and it is bulkier than most other models on the market.

Husqvarna 336FR Bike Handle Pro Brushcutter

Type	Gas
Weight	11.2 pounds before gas/accessory weight
Warranty	2 year standard is common for Husqvarna, but double-check
Motor Type	34.6cc X-Torq engine
Features	Comes with string trimmer head, grass blade, and saw blade. Also includes Balance 35 shoulder harness.

The Husqvarna brush cutter is a multipurpose device with many different attachments. Powerful grass or saw blades make quick work of anything you need to take down.

It has very low vibration thanks to its included shoulder harness, plus is much easier to handle as a result. But it does require cool-down time regularly, and some have reported issues if the wrong fuel is used. For this one, read the manual first!

Best Electric Brush Cutter

GreenWorks Pro GST80320 80V Cordless String Trimmer

• Powered by 80V Li-Ion Battery compatible with.
• Brushless motor, equivalent performance to 32cc.
• Powerhead shaft is attachment capable and accepts.

Type	Electric
Weight	17 lbs (when lithium ion battery is attached)
Warranty	Limited four-year warranty
Motor Type	80V brushless motor
Features	Converts to hedge trimmer, leaf blower, edger, brush cutter, tiller, pole saw with attachments (not included), compatible with most gas attachments.

Since electric models often FOCUS on being just string trimmers, it’s hard to find one that can handle outside attachments. But the GreenWorks Pro GST80320 takes Ryobi Expand-It, TrimmerPlus and PoulonPro attachments. This enables you to convert it to an electric and battery powered brush cutter, tiller, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, edger, or tree trimmer as needed. As a string trimmer, it uses.080 cord, but can use as heavy as.095 if you want, giving it more weed-whacking ability.

Its 80V power makes it on-par with many gas models while still keeping it lightweight and manageable. If there’s a drawback, it’s in the power packs, which often last only 25-30 minutes during heavier jobs, and take about the same amount of time to charge. You’ll need at least two battery packs to have continuous workflow, and the battery packs aren’t cheap. Happily, the packs will work with many other GreenWorks tools as well.

Other Good Electric-Powered Choices

GreenWorks Pro ST80L210 80V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

• 80V STRING TRIMMER – powers through the toughest.
• 16” CUTTING PATH008” dual line, bump feed.
• TRUBRUSHLESS MOTOR – provides more torque.

Type	Electric
Weight	9.8 lbs (without lithium ion battery attached)
Warranty	4 year limited warranty
Motor Type	80v brushless motor
Features	Attachments not currently available, but has heavy-duty dual string trimmer head. Can handle 4ah or 2ah batteries.

I know, this article is supposed to be about brush cutters, not string trimmers! However, this particular string trimmer has something which most others don’t. Next to its easy-start button, there is a power control that enables you to push up the power to higher levels. Since it can take up to.095 cord and has a dual-cutting capability, amping up the power gives you an almost brush-cutter like potency with a string trimmer. Still, it doesn’t accept other attachments, and it does still run on batteries, so it comes in just shy of the other electric choice.

All in all, if you need the power of a brush cutter, I’d probably pick the gas cutter from Remington over the electric option. But there’s a lot of good aspects of the GreenWorks model with all of its potential attachments, too. Which would you pick – gas or electric?