9 Best Gas String Trimmers of 2023 Reviews. Gasoline craftsman weed eater

Best Gas String Trimmers of 2023 [Reviews]

String trimmers, also known as weed wackers, weed eaters, or weed whips, are an essential tool for maintaining a manicured lawn. Whether you’re cleaning up your edges or trimming the spaces your lawn mower can’t reach, a good string trimmer is a must-have for lawn owners.

Gas-powered string trimmers can operate all day without pausing to charge and aren’t tethered to an outlet like corded trimmers. If you have a large yard or thick brush on your property, you may need a gas trimmer to keep your landscape looking sharp.

To help you pick the best gas string trimmer for your yard and budget, this article includes our picks for the top 9 gasoline-powered trimmers, as well as a helpful buyers guide and FAQ. To come up with our top 9 list, we looked at the power, utility, weight, and price of gas-powered string trimmers.

Because online shopping are always in flux, we’ve provided an estimated range based on multiple sources.

We also have listed multiple buying options, when available, to make it easy to compare prices.

Top 9 Gas String Trimmers — Reviews

Best Overall and Category Champs

1. Best Overall: Husqvarna 128LD 28 cc 17” String Trimmer

2. Best Curved Shaft: Husqvarna 128CD Curved-Shaft Trimmer

3. Most Versatile: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer

4. Best Commercial Pick: Proyama 42.7 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer

Runners-Up Best Gas String Trimmers

5. Ryobi RY253SS 25 cc 18” Trimmer

6. Poulan Pro PR28SD 28 cc 17” Trimmer

7. Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer

8. Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer

9. Wild Badger Power WBP52BCI 52 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer

Best Overall: Husqvarna 128LD 28 cc 17” String Trimmer

A high-performance model from a trusted brand, the Husqvarna 128LD is the gold standard of string trimmers.

Here are the features we liked the most:

• 28 cc, two-cycle engine provides plenty of cutting power without weighing a ton.
• “SmartStart” recoil system, which reduces starting cord resistance by 40%.
• Simple stop/return switch quickly cuts power to the string head.
• A translucent fuel tank lets you know how much juice you have left.
• Several attachments available, including a wheeled edger, pole saw, and tiller.

This gas string trimmer is one of the more expensive options on our list, but this durable Husqvarna trimmer is a great investment and will stand up to years of heavy use.

Note: Because this string trimmer has a 2-stroke engine, it requires special oil to be mixed with gasoline, which is included with purchase.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 28 ccCutting Width: 17 inchesWeight: 11 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Easy start✓ Best-in-class engine power✓ Wide cutting swath for efficiency	✗ Pricey✗ Attachments are expensive

Best Curved Shaft: Husqvarna 128CD Curved-Shaft Trimmer

With the same engine and features of our top-pick gas string trimmer, the Husqvarna 128CD is the clear choice for a curved-shaft model.

What is the advantage of a curved shaft string trimmer? A curved shaft is more ergonomically effective than a straight one. With better weight distribution, it’s easier to hold close to the ground while you remain upright.

Like its straight-shafted twin, the 128CD features a 28 cc engine and Husqvarna’s “SmartStart” system. The translucent fuel tank lets you keep an eye on your fuel, and the quick stopping switch helps keep you safe.

At 11 pounds, this is a lighter option gas string trimmer that puts ease-of-use first. The only downside of using a curved shaft string trimmer is that it can be harder to get in tight spots and underneath fences.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 28 ccCutting Width: 17 inchesWeight: 11 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Easier to hold and use✓ Powerful engine✓ Wide cutting swath	✗ Harder to weed in tight spots✗ Expensive attachments✗ Pricey

Most Versatile: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer

The Craftsman WS235 comes as a 2-in-1 weed wacker and brush cutter, saving you the expense of buying separate attachments. With a string trimmer head for regular use and a heavy-duty blade for cutting through thick brush, this versatile trimmer gives you a lot of bang for your buck.

The 27 cc engine offers great cutting power, and the heavy.095-inch line cuts through weeds with ease. An 18-inch cutting swath helps you trim more in less time.

This gas string trimmer comes with an included shoulder strap and ergonomic J-shaped handle to make handling easier.

Bonus Points: This Craftsman gas string trimmer is compatible with a full line of Craftsman TrimmerPlus accessories for even more versatility.

Downside: The nut that changes the cutting head of this string trimmer can be awkward, as it’s bolted on with reverse threads. Many customer reviews note this as a failing, as the reverse thread is not clearly marked.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 27 ccCutting Width: 17 inchesWeight: 13 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Bladed brush cutter included✓ Powerful✓ Shoulder strap included	✗ Heavy✗ Awkward to change cutting heads

Best Commercial Pick: Proyama 42.7 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer

Proyama makes commercial-grade power equipment for lawn care industry professionals, which explains the raw power of this brush cutter and trimmer and its shoulder-mounted design.

With a massive 42.7 cc engine, this trimmer can cut through thick brush and saplings with ease. It comes with a 9-inch chainsaw-tooth blade, a 30-tooth brush blade, and a triangular mowing blade.

When the string trimmer head is used, it delivers an 18-inch cutting swath. The handlebar-style grip and smooth trigger action are designed for comfortable all-day use, and the included shoulder harness reduces engine vibration. The shaft splits in two for easy transport and storage.

This package includes all the accessories you’ll need. Besides the multiple blade attachments, this Proyama trimmer comes with safety goggles, ear protection, gloves, a fuel canister, and a tool bag.

This is a good choice for homeowners who have woods or wild growth encroaching on the border of their lawns.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 42.7 cc Cutting Width: 18 inchesWeight: 20 lbsPrice Range: Expensive

Pros	Cons
✓ Professional power✓ All-day operation✓ Cuts through all types of foliage✓ Tons of included accessories	✗ Very heavy✗ Difficult to start

Runners-Up:

Ryobi RY253SS 25 cc 18” Trimmer

Ryobi’s gas string trimmer delivers excellent power over a wide 18-inch swath. It has a universal attachment head that allows the owner to purchase a variety of off-brand blades and accessories, making it an adaptable choice.

The RY253SS is a less expensive option for its power class but is a few pounds heavier than other similarly-powerful trimmers.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 25 ccCutting Width: 18 inchesWeight: 14 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Universal attachments✓ Good power✓ Wide cutting swath	✗ Heavy

Poulan Pro PR28SD 28 cc 17” Trimmer

With a 28cc 2-cycle engine, this Poulan trimmer delivers great performance at a reasonable price. The “SureFire” fuel delivery system and spring-assisted starter make firing up the PR28SD a breeze.

A variety of separately sold attachments, including a cultivator and a blower, are compatible. The long shaft makes this a great choice for taller customers.

At 14 pounds, this Poulan Pro trimmer can feel quite heavy after prolonged use.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 28 ccCutting Width: 17 inchesWeight: 14 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Easy starting✓ Long straight shaft	✗ Heavy

Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer

The Remington RM25C is a compact curved-shaft trimmer that’s easy on the body and the wallet. Its ergonomic shape is designed for balance and comfort.

This string trimmer comes loaded with a durable.095-inch line, which is fed with an intuitive bump system. The 25 cc engine delivers more than enough power for standard weeding.

The curved-shaft model is better for shorter operators. Taller customers have reported more success with Remington’s RM25S straight shaft version.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 25 cc Cutting Width: 16 inchesWeight: 13 lbsPrice Range: Inexpensive

Pros	Cons
✓ Ergonomic shape✓ Affordable price tag	✗ Shaft not adjustable for tall operators

Husqvarna 324L 4-Cycle 18” String Trimmer

Husqvarna’s take on a 4-cycle weed wacker is a more expensive option, but it can run for extended periods and makes quick work of heavy brush. 4-cycle engines are quieter and run on fuel straight from the pump.

Husqvarna products are known for their reliability, performance, and durability, and the 324L is no exception. The high price tag may be a dealbreaker for some customers, but if cost is no object this commercial-grade trimmer is a solid choice.

Specifications

Engine Type: 4-cycleEngine Capacity: 25 cc Cutting Width: 18 inchesWeight: 14 lbsPrice Range: Expensive

Pros	Cons
✓ Quiet✓ No fuel mixing required✓ Durable	✗ Expensive✗ Heavy

Wild Badger Power WBP52BCI 52 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer

The most powerful trimmer on the list is the Wild Badger Power WBP52CI. With a massive 52 cc engine, this commercial-grade machine is built with heavy brush clearing in mind.

The WBP52BCI is very reasonably priced and considerably less expensive than other commercial trimmers in its power class. It comes with a standard brush-cutter blade, but other accessories are sold separately. It’s compatible with a variety of attachments and can cut through trees up to 4 inches thick with the right chainsaw-tooth blade.

The massive power comes with a lot of added weight, so a shoulder harness is an essential purchase.

This is an affordable entry-level commercial trimmer and a great choice for professional or residential users.

Specifications

Engine Type: 2-cycleEngine Capacity: 52 cc Cutting Width: 17 inchesWeight: 22 lbsPrice Range: Moderate

Pros	Cons
✓ Very powerful✓ Affordable✓ Universal (off-brand) accessories compatible	✗ Accessories sold separately✗ Very heavy

Buyers Guide: Gas String Trimmers

Gas string trimmers are the industry standard for lawn care professionals and residential operators alike. Gas engines are reliable and can quickly be refueled in the field. Though they require considerably more maintenance than electric string trimmers, they’re the better option for dealing with thicker weeds and brush.

Even with advancements in battery technology, the best electric string trimmers can’t beat the cutting power and longevity of gas string trimmers.

This buyers guide will outline the key specs to look for when purchasing a gas trimmer, and help you make an informed decision.

What to Look for in a Gas String Trimmer

The most important factors to consider when buying a gasoline-powered string trimmer are:

We’ll take a look at each of these factors to give you a better idea of the range of products on the market and choose the trimmer that best fits your needs and budget.

Engine Power

Because horsepower is a variable measurement, the easiest stat to look at when determining an engine’s consistent output is its capacity. Measured in cubic centimeters (cc), this lets you know how much fuel is burning with each stroke of the motor. A higher capacity means more power in each stroke and more torque.

High-powered engines will enable the cutting of thicker brush. If you’re planning to use your trimmer on regular lawn grass, you can save money and strain by going for a lighter, lower-power option. However, if you have wooded areas or wild growth on your property you may need to invest in a powerful brush cutter.

Utility

Different trimmers have different capabilities. Most of them come with the option to add certain attachments, such as a cutting blade or edging wheel. Knowing what tasks you’d like to accomplish before you purchase will ensure you buy the correct tool for your lawn.

The cutting width of a trimmer will also determine its utility and efficiency. A wider swath will enable you to cut more with each pass, saving you time and effort.

Weight

An important factor for any handheld tool, a trimmer’s weight will partially determine the length of time it can be used. Even professionals get tired lugging a 20-pound weed wacker around all day. Consider your limits and purchase something that will be comfortable to use.

If you need to purchase a heavier tool for the added power, shoulder straps are available that take the load off your arms, allowing comfortable regular use.

Price

Residential gas weed wackers generally cost between 70 and 200, with high-end and commercial models costing as much as 400. The wide price range makes it easy to find something that fits your budget.

FAQ About Gas-Powered String Trimmers

Our head-to-head reviews show that the Husqvarna 128LD (or CD, depending on shaft preference) is the most reliable trimmer on the market.

Electric trimmers have come a long way in the last two decades. Modern battery-powered trimmers, especially ones with a high-voltage battery, can deliver comparable power to gas, without the emissions and maintenance that come with burning fossil fuels.

Gas engines still have the upper hand when it comes to heavy-duty work. Very few electric trimmers can handle saplings or wooded brush, so your needs will depend on the type of foliage you plan to cut.

Additionally, some areas of the U.S. are encouraging or requiring more power tools to be powered by electricity, so it’s a good idea to check your local and state regulations before committing to gas.

Most professionals and enthusiasts use straight-shafted trimmers, as the shape makes it easier to trim in hard-to-reach places. Taller people, especially over 6 feet, often say a straight shaft is more comfortable as well.

For most people, a curved shaft will distribute the trimmer’s weight more ergonomically, putting less strain on the back and shoulders.

Gas weed eaters are sold at a wide range of prices. With less expensive models costing under 100 and higher-end models going for as much as 350 or more, your budget is an important consideration. With fuel, oil, and accessories adding costs, plan to spend around 200 for a well-made, effective trimmer.

When to Call a Lawn Care Pro

Don’t have the time to keep your weeds and edges trimmed and sharp? Lawn Love pros can give your yard a professional manicure at affordable prices. Call 800-706-4117 to see how a professional lawn care crew can show your yard some Lawn Love.

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

Main Photo Credit: iStock photo with text overlay

Best Weedeater for 2023 – 10 Gas Models Tested

We take 10 gas-powered string trimmers and put them through our paces to determine who’s king in the Best Weedeater Shootout. Some are 4-cycle and some 2-cycle, but they’re all gas-powered. No batteries or cords here. These are the best of the beasts who tame the lawns.

Who do you think will reign as the champ? Stick around – keep reading – and you’ll find out.

Best Weedeater Shootout – Who’s In?

Here’s a quick look at which string trimmers are in this best weedeater head-to-head comparison. We have the following contenders in alphabetical order:

• Echo – SRM-2620T
• Honda – HHT35SLTA – 4-cycle
• Husqvarna – 525LST
• Makita – EM2650LH – 4-cycle
• Ryobi – RY253SS
• Ryobi – RY4CSS – 4-cycle
• Shindaiwa – T262
• STIHL – FS 91 R – 4-mix – 4-cycle running premix (oil and gas)
• Tanaka – TCG27EBSP
• Troy-Bilt – TB6044 XP – 4-cycle

How We Determine the Best Weedeater

In determining a ranking for the best weedeater, we want to stay as objective as possible. The less we have based on subjectivity (opinion), the better. Each string trimmer is looked at in detail, used by multiple users, multiple times. We’ve developed a points system, including multiple categories, with a possible total of 100.

We take a look at items like key features, sound-pressure level, and weight. Ergonomics also plays a big role in our calculation. Furthermore, we determine fuel efficiency, tank runtime, time-work testing, and of course, price, and warranty. We also determine a “Value” which is more of a bang-for-your-buck calculation for the best weedeater.

Without further ado, let’s see how it all shakes down in the best weedeater shootout.

Related Shootout: Don’t miss our Best backpack leaf blowers article.

Key Features of the Best Weedeaters

Cutting Swath

All string trimmers come standard with a guard to keep flying debris from hurting the operator. Well, it keeps some of the debris away. Even the best weedeater peppered your legs with grass and weed “shrapnel”. The guard also houses the cutter/blade that keeps the line trimmed a certain length. We measure the distance, in inches, from the center of the trimmer head to the cutter on the guard. Multiply this by two, and you have the cutting swath (diameter).

Our smallest swath belongs to the Makita EM2650LH, at just 16 inches. The largest is the Shindaiwa T262, at a whopping 20 inches! Will this affect cutting speed or getting work done?

Shaft Type

Do the best weedeaters have a one or two-piece shaft? Keeping this a single piece eliminates another area for wear and/or failure. All our “commercial-level” trimmers have a one-piece shaft, and the three “consumer-level” models had two-piece shafts.

The two-piece shaft allows for additional accessories to run on the same powerhead. The three 2-piece models were the Ryobi RY253SS, Ryobi RY4CSS, and the Troy-Bilt TB6044 XP.

Auto Choke

Starting up gas-powered weedeaters, edgers, and blowers can take some time. Typically, when starting the unit cold, you close the choke completely and yank the pull cord until it fires. Then, you open the choke, grab a handful of throttle and pull the cord again. Once the unit fires, you keep it throttled up until it’s warm. Even the best weedeater has to deal with winterization and cold weather startups.

With the automatic choke, you still close the choke fully, then pull until it fires. The choke then opens, pull the cord again, without your fingers on the throttle. The trimmer will fire up at a high idle, without you touching it. Once you touch the throttle, idle will return to normal. This helps warm up the machine quickly, without several extra steps.

The Husqvarna 525LST, Makita EM2650LH, and the STIHL FS 91 R are the only trimmers to include this feature.

The Best Weedeater Have Easier Serviceability

Do the trimmers include the ability to service the unit? As the trimmers are used every day, the heads eventually need to be greased, along with the shaft.

All the trimmers included a service port in the trimmer head, with the exception of the Troy-Bilt TB6044 XP.

Top 5 Best Gas String Trimmer Reviews in 2023 | Best Budget Gas Weed Eater on Amazon

Best Weedeater Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is important, as it’s a direct cost associated with the amount of work being done. All the units in our best weedeater comparison run on gasoline.

Four of the string trimmers are 4-cycle and require only gasoline—no remixing or oil. The Makita EM2650LH, Ryobi RY4CSS, Honda HHT35SLTA, and the Troy-Bilt TB6044 XP are all 4-cycle.The STIHL FS 91 R is also a 4-stroke, but it runs on 2-stroke fuel (premix).

How we tested: For the efficiency test, we used 8 oz. of TruFuel (either 2-stroke or 4-stroke fuel), and we ran the trimmer at Wide Open Throttle (WOT) until they ran out of fuel. Both Ryobi trimmers were the most efficient, running for more than 23 minutes on 8 oz. of fuel.

TruFuel 50:1 Mix and TruFuel 4-Cycle

To keep things equal, we used TruFuel 50:1 Mix for all our 2-cycle weedeaters, and we used TruFuel 4-Cycle for all our 4-cycle tools.

Echo Black Diamond.095 Trimmer Line

We loaded up Echo Black Diamond.095 trimmer line in all our string trimmers. This is Echo’s twisted black line that has excellent cutting qualities and works with all our gas weedeaters.

Tank Runtime

Tank Runtime is probably more of a concern than efficiency since it relates more to labor costs, which tend to be more expensive than the savings of gasoline efficiency.

How many times do I have to stop and walk my weedeater back to the truck/trailer each day?

How we tested: we used the fuel efficiency number (burning 8 oz. TruFuel @WOT) then multiplied by the number of times 8 oz. goes into the capacity of the fuel tank. e.g. If a tank is 16 oz. and the trimmer ran for 20 minutes on 8 oz. We take 20 minutes x 2 (because 8 goes into 16 two times), so tank runtime would be 40 minutes.

The STIHL FS 91 R was not the most efficient, however, it had the best Tank Runtime due to the capacity of the tank.

Best Weedeater Ergonomics

Weight

Weight is important with weedeaters because you’re literally holding all that weight in your two hands. The more weight and more time, the more fatigued you’ll be at the end of the day.

We weighed each string trimmer with 8 oz. of fuel in the tank. Also, oil was added to the 4 four-stroke models we had, to give a true representation of the weight as it would be used.

The Husqvarna 525LST is our lightest trimmer, weighing in at only 12.3 lbs. On the flip side, the heaviest contender is the Troy-Bilt TB6044 XP.

Weedeater Sound Testing – Db(A)

Using a weedeater for 10 or 15 minutes straight may not seem to bother your hearing. However, the reality proves to be much different. We measured the sound pressure level (SPL) of these best weedeaters at 50 feet. This covered the ANSI specs, however, we also tested SPL at the operator’s ear.

Hearing protection should be worn with all these models.

The Honda HHT35SLTA was our quietest trimmer, measuring just 74 Db(A) at 50-feet and 96 Db(A) at the operator’s ear. The STIHL FS 91 R was our worst sound offender at 80 and 106 Db(A).

Testing the Best Weedeater Performance

Power Trials – Thick and Thin

Why Power is important: most lawn crews use these string trimmers or weedeaters to keep the grass tamed near hardscaping or flower beds where the mower can’t reach. In addition to this, the string trimmer may be used for cutting back growth in areas that haven’t been touched in a while.

This may be fitter for the work of a brush-cutter, but the reality is the operator’s going to just pull the trigger on the string trimmer in their hand and go at it.

How well do these trimmers cut the grass and how well do they cut thick foliage?

What To Trim?

We tried to make this a little more objective by providing a material that we could cut, measuring the amount of time it took to cut. Cardboard is no match. Even the “weakest” weedeater of the bunch can cut through several inches of solid cardboard immediately.

We then tried corrugated plastic-like political signs you see all over the place during elections. This also proved no challenge. The best weedeaters cut just as quickly as the rest. Even with 5 and 10 pieces glued together…they just cut right through it. Almost immeasurable. Wood and wooden dowels were too inconsistent, and it would typically break the string before completing the task.

Cardboard tubes with ¼”-thick walls seemed to the be a great medium — for the first few seconds. However, once the trimmer would make it halfway through the cardboard tube, the string would break. Most of the time when the string broke, the line would be welded/melted together inside the head.

How About Grass and Weeds!

Finally, why not test the best weedeater with the medium that the tool was made for?! We made a 5’ x 5’ square with PVC. We used the square to lay in the grass, measuring how long it took each trimmer to cut the marked area. Each test was performed several times.

After testing in the “normal” grass, we then moved the weedeaters to thicker and taller foliage. Testing was performed on Central Florida Bahia grass. Bahia is known for it’s tough blades, wreaking havoc on lawn equipment.

Echo’s SRM-2620T cut through the thin stuff the fastest, at just 7.8 seconds. The Husqvarna 525LST was the fastest in the thick stuff, taking only 10.9 seconds to cut through.

Using the Best Weedeaters for Edging

Why is Edging important? If there’s a lot of edging to be done, lawn crews will typically grab a dedicated edger to complete the task. However, it’s not uncommon to do quick edging or to just use the string trimmer in your hand to do the work.

How well does each model handle this and does their blade guard get in the way?

Echo’s guard on the SRM-2620T deems to be the least intrusive on edging, but the Tanaka TCG27EBSP and Honda HHT35SLTA guards keep reading the line of sight more difficult.

Best Weedeater Price and Value

Why it’s important: When we tally all the results and compare that to the price of each trimmer, we understand value better. For some, it’s getting the cheapest nailer that will do the job. For others, it’s getting the best bang for your buck.

In this case, the cheapest is also the best value – Ryobi RY253SS with a 119 price tag. The worst value belongs to the Honda HHT35SLTA with a 379 price.

Warranty

Also going into the Value equation is the warranty from each weedeater manufacturer. We look at each warranty on two levels: for the consumer and commercial user. All the string trimmers include a warranty for commercial and consumer, with the exception of one.

Top 5 Best Gas String Trimmers of 2023

Troy-Bilt only warranties the TB6044 XP to the consumer for 3 years and nothing for the commercial user. Ryobi offers a 90-day warranty for commercial use and 3-years for consumers.

The Tanaka TCG27EBSP weedeater is warranted for 2 years for commercial use and 7 years for the consumer.

Final Results – Out of 100 Points

10th place, 63.0 pointsTroy-Bilt TB6044 XP

Pros Offers consumers some flexibility with the split shaft, able to add accessories and different heads.4-stroke engine – no worry with premixing fuelSufficient power

Cons Non-serviceable headNo commercial warrantyGrease starting to seep from the head in just a few hours of use.Just a bit short, so it feels a little awkward, especially if you’re tall.Throttle trigger safety is a pain, if you don’t press hard in a certain area, it doesn’t unlock the throttle.

9th place, 72.3 pointsTanaka TCG27EBSP

Pros Sufficient powerBest weedeater warranty of the bunch. 2-years commercial and 7-years consumer warranty

Cons Only a single-stage foam air filter – very thin piece of foamGuard is somewhat intrusive on the work area

8th place, 78.3 pointsRyobi RY4CSS

Pros Offers consumers some flexibility with the split shaft, able to add accessories and different heads.4-stroke engine – no worry with premixing fuelSufficient powerMost Efficient weedeater (with the Ryobi brother)

Cons Auxiliary handle doesn’t tighten, due to a plastic retaining wing-nutJust a bit short, so it feels a little awkward, especially if you’re tall.

7th place, 80.6 pointsRyobi RY253SS

Pros Offers consumers some flexibility with the split shaft, able to add accessories and different heads.Sufficient powerCheapest gas-powered weedeater we testedHighest Value WeedeaterMost Efficient (with the Ryobi brother)

Cons Auxiliary handle doesn’t tighten, due to a plastic retaining wing-nutJust a bit short, so it feels a little awkward, especially if you’re tall.

6th place, 81.3 pointsHonda HHT35SLTA

Pros 4-stroke engine – no worry with premixing fuelVery good powerLargest engine – 35 ccCan be converted to a brushcutter as wellEasiest starting weedeater – typical with a Honda engine

Cons Heaviest weedeater – due to it being the largest engineGuard is somewhat intrusive on the work areaMost expensive

5th place, 84.3 pointsShindaiwa T262

Pros Very good power and performanceLargest cutting swath – 20 inches – great for cutting grass around and over water (ditches, marsh, etc.)Speed-Feed head makes it quick and easy to install new line

Cons With the large swath, it does bog a little when diving into deep stuff. Recovers nicely.Just didn’t seem to be in front in any certain category.

4th place, 87.9 pointsStihl FS 91 R

Pros Excellent Power and performanceBest Runtime – 1 hour and 2 minutes at WOT on a tank.Automatic choke – turn on full-choke, then it returns to partial-choke where it runs at high idle until you pull the trigger, then the weedeater returns to normal idle.Always On, until you push the Stop button. Only need to push it once, and it shuts the engine off. Then it’s ready for starting again.

Cons 4-stroke engine, but it still requires premixOne of the heaviest – 13.9 lbs with fuelLoudest – 80 and 106 Db(A) (at 50ft and at the user’s ear)

3rd place, 89.0 pointsHusqvarna 525LST

Pros Excellent PowerAutomatic choke – returns to high-idle until you hit the throttleAuto-return power switch – always On, until hold the spring-loaded slide to Stop, then it returns to On.Lightest string trimmer – just 12.3 lbs with fuel in the tank.Fastest in the heavy foliage – 10.7 seconds2:1 ratio high-torque head

Cons Throttle trigger is a bit flimsy.

2nd place, 90.7 pointsECHO SRM-2620T

Pros Excellent PowerSpeed-Feed head makes it quick and easy to install new lineFastest time for performance test2:1 ratio high-torque headOnly 0.3 lbs heavier than the lightest trimmer

Cons 2nd most expensive

1st place, 90.8 pointsMakita EM2650LH

Pros 4-stroke engine – no worry with premixing fuelExcellent power2nd in Tank Runtime

2nd Lightest – only 0.3 lbs heavier than the lightest trimmer

Easy to install line in the head, without taking apartExcellent balance – very easy to maneuver

Cons Smallest cutting swath – 16-inchesDoesn’t allow quite as much line as the others

Not recommended to hang by the powerhead

Final Conclusion

Well, we let the numbers speak for themselves. Quite frankly, this fight was not all about power, per se. Reason being is that all the manufacturers are putting very good power to the ground. It’s really amazing what these small displacement powerplants can output. With all of them able to get the job done, it came down to ergonomics, feature set, and value. A pound or more extra weight can really get to you after hours of work.

We really didn’t add or subtract based on 2-cycle or 4-cycle. 2-cycle trimmers require oil to be mixed in the gas, however, 4-cycles need crankcase oil and oil changes – even valves adjusted after some time. We consider these a wash in terms of benefit. Now, in terms of preference, that’s up to you.

We would have like to have seen RedMax and Efco in the fight as well, but they declined to enter the best weedeater shootout. Let us know how we did and if you would like to see any other trimmers in the mix.

The 10 Best Weed Trimmers for Proper Lawn Maintenance

Weed trimmers also known as weed whackers or string trimmers are very important when it comes to cutting the grasses in your yard or garden.

As a landscaper or professional homeowner, whether you have a lawn mower or not, there are certain tasks or projects you can only do with a weed trimmer.

For instance, if your lawn is overgrown, it’s not advisable to use a mower to cut it, because the tall grasses will tangle will the mower blades and you’ll not get a clean cut which will do more harm than good to the grasses. Instead, the first thing you should do is to cut the grasses down to a considerable level with a string trimmer. Only after that, you can use a mower to level it.

String trimmers are also ideal for cutting around obstacles like trees, flowers and other plants without harming them.

It also comes in handy for edging your lawn close to the pavement or sidewalk where your mower blades cannot get to.

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Overall, it’s a very useful tool that will allow you trim every inch of your lawn with precision.

Types of Weed Trimmers

Weed eaters or trimmers can be classified according to their source of power, whether it’s gas or electric. They’re also differentiated according to the type of shaft they come with and sometimes, the type of handle they have.

• Gas powered
• Corded electric
• Cordless or battery-powered
• Straight shaft
• Curved shaft
• Looped handle and
• Bike or bicycle handle

Gas Weed Trimmer

From the name, you can tell the gas trimmers are those that are powered by small gas engines. These are the most powerful type you can get for cutting overgrown grasses and brushes.

However, these require more maintenance because any fuel and oil-consuming engine needs to be serviced and maintained on a regular basis.

You also have to buy fuel regularly to power it.

As for the corded electric, they’re also very powerful but not as powerful as the gas models. You just have to plug it to a power outlet, press a button and you can start trimming your grasses.

They don’t require much maintenance like the gas models, but the size or area of grasses you can cut with it is limited by the length of the corded. So they’re more suitable for homeowners with small lawns.

If you have a very large lawn, I don’t think a corded electric trimmer will be the ideal tool you need to get the job done.

Cordless or Battery Powered Weed Eaters

A cordless or battery powered trimmer is one of the best type you can go for. It does not require much maintenance like a corded unit and is not limited by the wire cord that comes with it.

You just have to charge the battery, plug it into the tool and you can take it anywhere with you. They don’t also produce much noise like the gas powered ones.

Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer

As the name already tells, they come equipped with straight shafts that connect the engine or motor to the head. This is very suitable if you’re tall, because the straight shift gives you a longer reach advantage so you don’t have to bend to reach the grass.

They are also more powerful because the straight shaft means a straight transmission of power from the engine or motor to the line head.

This also results in less vibration because there’re less moving parts inside it.

A curved shaft trimmer is also very easy to get underneath obstacles, because the shaft is a straight one, so you can just get down and point the cutting head to wherever and underneath whatever you want to make cuts.

They also have a large cutting capacity because they come with a large head with longer lines in them. So, you can cover a large part and work at a faster rate with a straight shaft weed trimmer down with a curved shaft.

The disadvantage of straight shaft string trimmers is that they’re weightier, simply because they’re larger in everything. Large engine, long shaft and large cutting head.

• Longer reach
• power
• Less vibration
• Better for getting underneath barriers like decks or lower tree branches
• Large capacity – longer and larger lines

Curved Shaft

Curved shaft trimmers features a much shorter shaft curved close to the head. These trimmers are usually smaller in size.

Because of their small size, they’re also lighter in weight. So you don’t really need a harness to handle this type.

They’re also cheaper to purchase, because they’re small and mostly comes with smaller engines, so there’s not much that goes into them.

The main disadvantage of curved shaft string trimmers is that you can’t get them underneath barriers because of the curved shaft close to the head.

For instance, you might try to reach some grasses under a deck or under a small tree or flower, and it’s impossible to do so because of the curve at the top of the shaft.

So, here’re the advantages of a curved shaft. They’re:

Handle Design

Two type of handles come with weed trimmers, a looped handle and a bike or bicycle handle.

Looped handle

A looped handle is easy to grab and go, so you can start working immediately. It’s also very easy to maneuver as you work with it.

It can however get heavy really quick, because you’re supporting the whole weight of the trimmer with both of your hands and nothing else. So, you can’t work with it for a very long time because you’ll get tired of the weight.

Bike or Bicycle Handle

This requires the use of a harness you need to wear on your shoulders to hold it around your waist. The harness takes the whole weight of the machine, so your hands don’t have to bear the weight. That means you can work for a longer period of time with it.

So, if you’re somebody with back pain or something like that, or you have a large area of lawn to trim, then this bike handle will be the ideal choice. You can use it for longer periods at a time compared to the looped handle trimmer.

Cycle Engine Gas Trimmer vs 4 Cycle Engine Gas Trimmer

Gas weed trimmers come with either a 2 circle engine or a 4 circle engine. That means, if you’re going to get a gas powered type, you need to know the difference between the two types of engines, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

The major difference between the two types of engines is that 2 circle engines run on mixed fuel. To start the engine, you need to pour in a mixture of fuel and oil.

On the other hand, with a 4 cycle engine, the oil is not mixed with the fuel or gasoline. Instead, it uses motor oil in the crank case, and the gasoline or fuel is turned into the fuel tank. The oil lubricates the engine from the crank case so there’s no mixture of fuel and oil.

2 Cycle Engine4 Cycle Engine4 Mixed Engine

Lightweight	Heavy	Can be heavy
High RPM	High torque	High torque
Really noisy due to high RPM	Low sound	Low sound
Dirty – Lots of fumes	Operates very clean – Less fume	Cleaner than 2 stroke
Hard to pull the start cord	Easy to pull	Easy to pull
Consumes more fuel	Consumes less fuel	Consumes less fuel

With that said, here’s our review of the 10 best weed trimmers you can use for your lawn maintenance projects.

Husqvarna 324L Gas Weed Trimmer

When it comes to making weed trimmers, few if any manufacturers makes them better than Husqvarna does. One of their best ones is the Husqvarna 324L.

If you really really want the best, then you’ve got to take this one for a spin because it’s a very powerful weed eater with a 4 stroke engine providing the power that spins the line.

With the 4 stroke engine, you don’t have to worry about mixing fuel or appropriate fuel oil ratios to power the trimmer because it runs on pure gasoline, not gasoline and oil.

The fuel-only 4 stroke engine not only removes the discomfort of having to mix fuel and oil, but also results in a cleaner running engine with less fumes coming from the exhaust as compared to a 2 stroke engines which uses fuel and oil mixtures.

Engine vibration is one common problem with gas trimmers. However, the Husqvarna 324L doesn’t seem to get its fair share of this problem due to engine which runs smoother and quieter than trimmers with 2 stroke engines.

Starting small engines like this can sometimes be problematic due to air buildup in the carburettor. To tackle this, the Husqvarna 324L comes equipped with an air purge system to release air from the carburettor, making it easy to start the engine.

Feeding more line from the head is very easy because it’s equipped with a Tap ‘N Go head which only requires you to tap it to the ground in order to release fresh line when the previous line is worn out.

As for weight, the Husqvarna 324L weed trimmer weighs only 11.24 lbs which is quite light from my point of view. So, you’ll definitely be able to manoeuvre and use it for a long time without getting tired out.

These features makes the Husqvarna 324L one of the best weed trimmers you can ever get your hands on.

The Husqvarna 324L has many desirable features all stemming from the fact that a 4 stroke engine provides the power for its operation.

I like the fact that it works with gasoline only. You don’t have to mix fuel and oil for it to work, which eliminates any worry of wrong fuel mixture that can kill the engine or the worry of having to buy expensive premixed fuel.

The tap n’ go head also makes line feeding a breeze. This is a feature which really makes using the Husqvarna 324L weed trimmer easy and comfortable for the user – a feature I like.

Where it can be improved:

The trimmer throws a lot of grass and debris on the user. A larger grass shield would definitely prevent this from happening, at least to some extent.

Echo GT-225 Gas Weed Trimmer

Echo is another power tool powerhouse that produces some of the best weed trimmers you can think ever of.

They need no introduction to the scene because they’ve been making these things for years, and have actually crafted a niche in making tools like the powerful GT-225 curved shaft weed trimmer.

The Echo GT-225 makes it into this list not just because it’s made by a tool manufacturer of great renown like Echo, but because it actually merits it in terms of quality and performance.

It comes equipped with a professional grade 21.2cc 2 stroke engine which provides enough power to trim weeds and brushes with ease.

The engine is connected to the head by means of a 48 inch curved shaft which is not only good for lawn edging but also very easy to maneuver around obstacles while trimming with it.

Charged with holding the spinning line is a Rapid loader cutting head, which as the name implies can be reloaded quickly by simply inserting precut lengths of cutting line. This eliminates down time and ultimately allows you to spend more time trimming down grasses instead of struggling to load the cutting head.

Getting the engine started is pretty easy because the Echo GT-225 is equipped with the i-30 starting system which reduces the effort needed to get the engine running, and makes it easier to start the trimmer.

Equipped with it also is a good adjustable handle which makes it easy for you to configure the way you hold the trimmer for maximum comfort and maneuverability.

I think the most likable feature of the Echo GT-225 is that it’s very easy to start, and it doesn’t take much effort to pull the starter.

The i-30 starting system makes it very easy to start. With just 1 or 2 pulls, it’s already up and running.

Power is also something the Echo GT-225 has a lot of. With it you can trim through tough brushes and weeds easily.

Some people don’t like the curved shaft it comes with, but I say it’s a matter of personal preference, plus the curved shaft is really easy to maneuver, especially for edging.

The Echo GT-225 weed trimmer is also very lightweight, which is one feature that will definitely do your hands a lot of good if you’ll be working for a pretty long time with the trimmer.

Where it can be improved:

The curved shaft has its perks, but if you’re really tall, you have to bend down a bit to have a good reach on the grass, which might not be comfortable for some people.

DeWALT DCST922P1 Cordless Weed Trimmer

The DeWALT DCST922P1 features a very innovative design and comes with all the necessary features needed to cut and trim grasses and lawns with ease.

First of all, the performance is great because it cuts really clean and beautiful through grassy lawns and even thick brush without any difficulty.

It makes use of a DeWALT 0.080 trimmer line and when switched on, it cuts through a 14-inch swat in every pass, which is not the highest cutting width I’ve seen, but still covers a lot of ground in every pass.

The DeWALT DCST922P1 features a variable speed trigger which makes it easy to control the speed and match performance with application.

Unlike a fuel powered weed whacker, the battery powered DCST922P1 is very lightweight and easy to maintain. Yes, your back will thank you when you get a tool like this.

Startup is easy because there’s no engine, just a motor to switch on. Battery life is good and lasts for about an hour before it needs to be recharged.

It features a large guard that prevents grass clippings, little rocks and dirt from flying towards the user.

A peculiar feature of the DCST922P1 is the ability to fold up the shaft after use, reducing its length by 40 percent, which makes it very easy to store away or transport from one place to another.

Once folded up, it can even fit into the trunk of a small car, unlike other trimmers which cannot be folded. Overall, the DeWALT DCST922P1 is one of the best choices for anyone looking for a lightweight, easy to use weed trimmer for yard work.

Worx WG184 Cordless Weed Trimmer

Among the many battery-powered string trimmers out there, the 40V Worx WG184 is one of my favorites, and it’s surely one I’d recommend to any homeowner looking for a quiet portable unit for carrying out simple yard work.

Apart from being used for cutting grasses, the Worx WG184 also doubles as an edger. It comes with a simple edger wheel which can be attached to the pivoting head, making it to edge along walkways and driveways, by simply rolling it along.

It comes with two 20V batteries, which makes it a total of 40V increased power and runtime.

Feeding out the line from the spool is done automatically by the push of a button on the handle. So, you don’t have to reach down and feed out the line manually. You don’t even have to bump the head on anything.

It also features a variable speed trigger for matching the speed of the line with the kind of grass you’re cutting.

The cutting head can be pivoted in different directions and adjusted to suit any type of sloped terrain, so the user doesn’t have to bend or assume an uncomfortable posture while working with it.

The width of the swat is 13 inches, which is not very wide, but still covers quite an area in one pass.

Milwaukee 2725-21HD

Milwaukee needs no introduction when it comes to the manufacture of power tools. Their M18 Fuel system, like Dewalts Flexvolt system has drastically changed the way cordless tools are perceived.

The Milwaukee 2725-21HD weed trimmer is one of their many cordless tools that is powered using the revolutionary M18 fuel batteries and their POWERSTATE brushless motor which ensures you get sufficient runtime from the tool.

The good part is, if you already have any of their cordless M18 tools, be it a circular saw, impact driver, sawzall or even their M18 jobsite table saw, you can use the same M18 battery to power everything.

It’s equipped with a bump feed head so you can easily feed out fresh line on the go without pausing.

The metal bump button ensures the trimmer head does not fail due to successive bumping on the ground. Though it’s not advisable to bump it on concrete or pavement even though it’s made of metal.

A 16 inch cutting swath line increases the cutting capacity of the trimmer by ensuring that a wide area of grass or weed is cut in just one pass.

You can run it in two speed modes, which are high and low speed settings. The high speed settings enables you to use the trimmer to cut through thick weed and brushes, but at a reduced run time. The low speed setting allows you to use the trimmer for light duty work like just trimming grass, thus maximizing runtime.

It also has a variable speed trigger which allows you to vary the speed depending on how far you depress the trigger.

The brushless motor is positioned at the back of the trimmer to provide balance for the tool and make it easier to manoeuvre it during use.

Whether you’re a professional landscaper or you’re a home owner looking for an efficient easy to use trimmer to take care of your yard, the Milwaukee 2725-21HD is definitely one I’m sure will exceed your expectations.

Like every other battery powered string trimmer, the Milwaukee 2725-21HD requires little to no maintenance, and none of the quibbles that goes with using a gas model.

Apart from that, what I really dig about the Milwaukee 2725-21HD is that it was well designed and well made. I think it’s something that’s really going to last for a long time, as long as it’s not abused.

Even though it’s battery powered, you’d discover that it cuts the grasses and brushes efficiently without bugging down, especially in the high speed setting. Even when working with the low speed setting, it still cuts lawn grasses without any resistance.

The battery charges quickly and runtime with a fully charged battery is good, because you can get over 1 hour of heavy trimming from it.

Where it can be improved:

There’s not much to criticize about the Milwaukee 2725-21HD. Though compared to a gas unit, it could use a bit more power.

BLACKDECKER LSTE523 Cordless Weed Trimmer

The BlackDecker LSTE523 is a weed trimmer which can also be converted to a lawn edger just like the Worx WG163 GT mentioned above.

It’s part of the BlackDecker’s POWERCOMMAND line of tools which are powered by their 20 volts max batteries. Hence, if you already have any of the 20 volts max tools, you can use the battery to power this one easily.

The BlackDecker LSTE523 does not just transmit power from the motor to the string or line directly. Instead, BlackDecker employs a power drive transmission which increases the torque, making it easier to deal with tough weeds.

With the BlackDecker LSTE523, you get 2 speeds to choose from, one increases the power or speed so you can cut through tough dense weed and brushes easily, while the second reduced speed allows you to have a longer runtime while working with the tool.

Feeding line from the trimmer head is not done manually, but by means of BlackDeckers EASYFEED feature which enables you to feed line from the head just by pressing a single button.

The BlackDecker LSTE523 is a straight shaft weed trimmer, which means you can easily reach the weed without having to bend down, even if you’re tall.

Apart from that, the height or length of the shaft can easily be adjusted by the user in order to make it easier to use. Even the auxiliary handle can be adjusted as well to make it easier to hold.

With all these features, if you get the BlackDecker LSTE523, you can be sure that you’re getting one of the best cordless units out there.

Every part of the BlackDecker LSTE523 was designed with ease of use in mind. First of all, it’s very lightweight. So you can work with it for a long time before tiring out.

It’s also very adjustable. You can adjust the auxiliary handle and you can even adjust the length of the shaft to whatever length works best for you.

Because it’s cordless, you definitely don’t have a lot of maintenance to do as well.

Where it can be improved:

Getting the battery charged takes a reasonable amount of time. So, you definitely have to consider getting a spare battery and charging both well in advance before starting your project.

Poulan Pro PR28SD 17 inch Gas String Trimmer

Power Source: Gas, Engine: 2 stroke 28cc, Shaft Type: Straight, Cutting Width: 17 inches, Line Diameter: 0.095 inches, Cutting Head Type: Tap’N Go, Weight: 14 Pounds

The major issue with gas weed trimmers is that they’re very noisy compared to battery powered or electric models.

However, the advantage they have over other types of trimmers is that they’re more powerful. This power allows you to use thicker lines and cut thicker grasses and brushes with them.

One of the best I’ll recommend for you is the Poulan Pro PR28SD. It’s a 17 inch weed trimmer which comes equipped with a 28cc 2-cycle engine, designed to start as easily as possible so you can power through grasses in no time.

The engine on it is very easy to start, you don’t have to pull it several times, just prime it, choke and pull the start belt or rope.

It features a spring assisted starter system and an auto return stop switch which automatically returns to the ON position in case you want to start it again.

The Poulan Pro PR28SD also features a Tap ‘N Go head which you can tap on the ground to automatically feed out a fresh 17 inch line spool to replace a worn out one.

Instead of a curved shaft, the Poulan Pro PRS28SD comes equipped with a straight shaft providing you a longer reach, especially if you’re a tall person.

The Pro-Link feature of the PRS28SD string trimmer means it capable of accepting 6 attachments which allows you to use it for grass trimming, brush cutting, hedge trimming, blowing of grasses, tree pruning and even edging of your lawn.

Overall, it’s an all-round tool with a very good design and the power to help you get the job done.

• It’s very powerful
• You can use several attachments
• Features a bump head for easy line feeding
• Easy to assemble
• Overall good design and solid construction

Where it can be improved:

DeWALT DCST970X1 Cordless Weed Trimmer

The DeWALT DCST970X1 is another cordless weed trimmer designed and built by DeWALT, which is a very good option for you if you’re looking for a convenient way to trim your lawn without dealing with gas.

When you get the DeWALT DCST970X1, you get a lightweight 60 volt battery unit equipped with a brushless motor and a gear driven head to provide all the power you need to cut through overgrown weeds in your yard.

Battery powered string trimmers are known not to be as powerful as their gas counterparts, but not the DeWALT DCST970X1. With the 60 volts 3 Ah battery that comes with it fully charged and loaded, you have a unit in your hands that can cut through very tough and overgrown weed easily.

Runtime is not a problem as long as the battery is fully charged, you can work for several hours with it before you need to recharge it. It’s really the power of corded in a cordless tool.

It’s equipped with a variable speed trigger with a hi/lo speed control which allows you to run the trimmer at a high speed for really tough weeds and at a low speed to increase run time.

The reality is, you may not even need to run it at the high speed setting because the low setting cuts the weeds very easily.

The cutting head uses a 15 inch cutting swath which is just long enough to cover a wide area of grass in one pass of the trimmer head.

With the DeWALT DCST970X1, you get a weed trimmer which is powerful, light and easy to handle, but without all the quibbles that come with a gas unit.

If you’re looking for a very powerful trimmer but you don’t want to deal with the troubles that comes with a gas unit, then by all means get the DeWALT DCST970X1.

Even though it’s battery powered, it still got all the power needed to deal with tough overgrown grasses in the yard. I really like the power this thing boasts.

It also has a very good runtime. You can actually run this thing for hours trimming the grasses in your yards, and the battery will hold up all through. If you’re really working on a very large property or using it commercially, you can opt for a second battery just for backup.

However, if you’re using this on a small property, you don’t need a second battery.

Where it can be improved

Blade guard is very small, so you have to be ready to have grass and dirt all over your shoes and jeans. Just make sure you wear work jeans and shoes to when trimming with it.

Safety glasses are also very necessary to protect your eyes from any particle the trimmer kicks up into the air.

Ear protection is not needed because it’s battery powered, no engine sound to worry about.

Makita XRU02Z Cordless Weed Trimmer

With a motor speed of up to 7800 rpm, Makita’s XRU02Z 18 volts powered cordless weed trimmer offers another battery powered option for you to trim the grasses and weeds off your yard.

It’s equipped with a bump feed trimmer head which is one of the most user friendly way to feed line into the trimmer without sacrificing time. Just a tap of the head on the ground will release a fresh line for improved cutting.

Also, the bump feed button on the trimmer head is reinforced to enable it withstand all the bumping action during use.

Equipped with a straight telescoping shaft, you can easily adjust the length of the shaft from 48-1/2 inches to 52-1/2 inches depending on what’s suitable for you to work with.

The Makita XRU02Z trimmer head can also be rotated through an angle of 180 degrees to convert the trimmer to an edger for edging the corners of your lawn, walkway or driveway.

One thing you’ll really appreciate about the Makita XRU02Z is the relatively short charge time of Makita’s 18 volts batteries. With less than 30 minutes, you can get a full charge on the batteries, so you can quickly get back to trimming instead of waiting for the battery to charge.

The runtime is also pretty decent. You can get close to an hour of runtime out of a 1.5 Ah battery and more than an hour for a 5.0 Ah Makita 18 volts battery.

With a weight of just 6.4 lb, the Makita XRU02Z is definitely one of the most lightweight and compact units you can ever get your hands on, and most definitely one of the best weed trimmers you can get your hands on today.

I really like the fact that the battery charges pretty fast. In 30 minutes or less, you already have a full charge in the batteries, which really reduces downtime.

Though not as powerful as a gas trimmer, power is not also lacking with the Makita XRU02Z, as it can adequately take care of all the grasses in your lawn.

The telescoping shaft and rotating head feature are also very good features which makes the Makita XRU02Z very versatile and easy to use.

Where it can be improved

The trimmer line that comes with it wears down pretty quick. A better quality line would definitely be a good improvement.

EGO Power ST1521S

The EGO Power ST1521S weed trimmer is capable of cutting a 15-inch-wide strip of grass in one pass. It’s a cordless 56 volts tool that comes equipped with a 2.5 Ah battery, which is powerful enough to cover a medium sized lawn with one battery charge.

One of the coolest things about the EGO Power ST1521S is the ability to automatically load the string line into the head without any manual work.

EGO Power calls it their POWERLOAD Technology. With it, replacing the trimmer line is as easy as feeding the line through the head and pressing a button close to the head which automatically winds the line into the head.

Feeding out the line when trimming is also as simple as bumping the head on the grass lawn.

It features a straight carbon fiber shaft which is very strong, and a wide head guide to keep dirt and grass clippings from flying towards the user.

The motor in the trimmer head is brushless, which means less energy wasted, longer run time and low vibrations.

A variable speed trigger ensures the user can either reduce or decrease the cutting speed depending on the condition of the grasses.