Did you know one of the main problems with electric string trimmers these days is the below-average batteries they come with?
More often than not, the trimmer tends to run out of power before you can clean your entire yard. We are well aware of these problems that can affect the rate of your household chores.
If you’re one of us, then you’re in luck, as we have reviewed the 6 best electric string trimmers in today’s article.
We have only reviewed the trimmers that we tested rigorously in terms of durability. These models come with extended battery life and a plethora of other remarkable features to look forward to.
Product Image | Name | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
| Best overall Greenworks PRO 80V 16 inch Cordless String Trimmer | • Variable speed trigger • Compatible 80V battery • Lightweight and easy to use | Price Please |
| Best for perfect grip Black Decker 20V MAX String Trimmer / Edger | • Power drive for higher torque • Converts edger from trimmer • Adjustable height & handle | Price Please |
| Best for accuracy Toro 51480 Corded 14-Inch Electric Trimmer/Edger | • 14-inch corded electric trimmer • Switch from a trimmer to an edger • Telescopic shaft & adjustable handle | Price Please |
| Best for Lightweight Dewalt 20V MAX String Trimmer | • 13-inch cutting swath • Minimizes stress on your arms • High-efficiency brushless motor | Price Please |
| Best for easy operation Earthwise LST02010 20-Volt Cordless String Trimmer | • 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery • 3 adjustable cut head positions • Powerful 20-volt trimmer | Price Please |
Navigate Quickly
- Best Electric String Trimmer Reviews
- 1. Greenworks PRO 80V 16 inch Cordless String Trimmer – Best Overall
- 2. Black Decker 20V MAX String Trimmer / Edger – Best for Perfect Grip
- 3. Toro 51480 Corded 14-Inch Electric Trimmer/Edger – Best for Accuracy
- 4. Dewalt 20V MAX String Trimmer – Best for Lightweight
- 5. EGO Power 15-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Commercial Series String Trimmer – Best for Carbon Fiber Shaft Battery
- 6. Earthwise LST02010 20-Volt 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer – Best for Easy Operation
- Types of String Trimmer
- Things to Look for in an Electric Weed Eater
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Best Electric String Trimmer Reviews
We are aware of how hard it can be to pick any electronic product in this day and age. Hence, we have handpicked the ones available for purchase.
1. Greenworks PRO 80V 16 inch Cordless String Trimmer – Best Overall
The first string trimmer on this list of reviews is this exclusive model that has been made by globally trusted manufacturers. It comes with a Certificate of Calibration, which is enough proof of accuracy and reliability. This also ensures that the product is made of premium-grade materials, which will last a long time.
Unlike most torque wrenches of its kind, this particular model comes with a knurled handle. This handle provides sufficient grip to the user, which may come in handy when working on oily surfaces. It allows you to maintain a steady grip on the torque wrench regardless of the slippery conditions.
This adjustable string trimmer is also calibrated in both directions. The precise calibration will allow you to quickly tighten or loosen lug nuts without even breaking a sweat. They have also implemented a lock-on mechanism that temporarily attaches the wrench to the nut.
It enables the user to efficiently tighten a lug nut without the worry of slipping out of place. The positive lock has a spring-loaded pull-down lock ring that is useful for detaching the wrench instantly. Their manufacturers have modified this tool to reduce all the hassles you might face on a regular basis.
Besides all that, this torque wrench is also incredibly accurate. It comes with laser-marked scales that provide more precision than any other model. That also makes it easy to read the scales. Socket retention is also nothing to worry about when you have this tool at your disposal.
A quick-release button has been added for easy socket removal and retention.
- Certificate of Calibration
- Knurled handle
- Calibrated in dual directions
- Positive lock with spring-loaded lock ring
- Easy socket removal
- Slightly pricey
2. Black Decker 20V MAX String Trimmer / Edger – Best for Perfect Grip
This trimmer model on this list comes with its own product manual and torque conversion chart. They are specifically useful for beginners who have minimal ideas on torque conversion. The manufacturer’s torque specifications will let you tighten the bolts more confidently, even if you’re a newbie.
It will also prevent the user from applying more torque than needed, which can damage the essential components of a vehicle. With this torque wrench in hand, you can be sure that all the parts of your vehicle will be fully secured. However, the most unique thing about this wrench is its click mechanism.
This clever design lets you know when the preset torque is reached with just a subtle click sound. It further reduces the possibility of tightening a lug nut more than it needs to be. The click torque wrench also comes with a spring-loaded adjustment collar.
The adjustment collar instantly locks in place, and won’t reduce its grip unless you want it to. It reduces the chances of the torque wrench moving out of place while you’re working on a project. This feature can effectively prevent a number of unwanted accidents at the workplace.
On top of that, this dual-direction string trimmer is made high-quality materials that keep it intact for a long duration. It’s also equipped with a 72 tooth ratchet head that measures the torque equally in either direction. Even reverse threaded fasteners can be attached with ease with this exceptional tool.
This torque wrench for lug nuts comes with a powerful torque range of 10-150 inch per pound.
- Manual and torque conversion chart
- Spring loaded adjustment collar
- Click mechanism
- 10-150 inch per pound torque range
- 72 tooth ratchet head
- Storage case is unsatisfactory
3. Toro 51480 Corded 14-Inch Electric Trimmer/Edger – Best for Accuracy
The following model arrives with an impressive torque range of 30 to 250 ft-lbs. Needless to say, this is enough power to efficiently take care of all your bolt tightening needs. Moreover, the manufacturer has years of experience making torque wrenches. So, there is never a doubt about its reliability.
If you buy this trimmer, the first thing you might notice is its ergonomic grip. The modified handle allows you to maintain a strong grip on the torque wrench while you’re working. Sweaty and greasy palms will no longer be a workplace hazard. This torque wrench also includes a positive lock-on feature.
When a particular torque is set, the wrench can easily cling on to a lug nut due to the positive lock. Removing the wrench is also made easier by the spring-loaded pull-down lock ring. Apart from that, this model can be distinguished from others because of its easy socket retention.
The manufacturer has made sure sockets can be detached and replaced swiftly and accurately. Thus, you can now work with the socket that fits your project. This trimmer model includes a dual scale and is calibrated in dual directions. Hence, tightening or loosening lug nuts is significantly easier.
Like most of the tools of this brand, this string trimmer is very precise. It comes with laser-marked scales that provide a whole other form of accuracy. Now you can set the exact amount of torque and also measure torque with ease. Not only is this wrench fast and accurate, but it’s also pretty comfortable to use.
- Made of premium grade materials
- 30 to 250 ft-lbs torque range
- Ergonomic grip
- Easy socket removal with quick release
- Spring-loaded positive lock
- No click mechanism
4. Dewalt 20V MAX String Trimmer – Best for Lightweight
Coming in at number 4 is this 1/2 inch drive click string trimmer that’s made of superior quality materials for utmost durability. It’s equipped with a ratchet head made from chrome vanadium steel alloy. The alloy has been hardened and treated to make sure it can endure heavy-duty usage in the harshest conditions.
Furthermore, the torque wrench has a full polish chrome finish that gives it a smoother and neater look. On top of that, it allows you to clean it without creating a fuss. The chrome finish also makes it corrosion and rust-resistant. Therefore, this tool can serve you for a very long time.
This drive click string trimmer also comes with high contrast and dual-range scale, which enables you to measure torque in both directions. It has been pre-calibrated to +/- 4% to ensure impeccable accuracy. Also, the dual-action trimmer makes tightening lug nuts fast and smooth.
As the name suggests, this string trimmer comes with a click function for ease of use. After setting a particular torque specification, you can keep tightening the bolt until you hear a click. The click sound will let you know when the optimal torque is reached and will indicate you to stop applying force.
This certainly comes in handy when you don’t have any prior experience with tools of this kind. As if that wasn’t enough, this exclusive product comes in its very own storage box. It comes in a portable storage case, so you can carry it with you wherever you go.
- Made chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Full polish chrome finish
- Pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy
- High contrast and dual-range scale
- Portable storage box
- Replacement parts are below average
5. EGO Power 15-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Commercial Series String Trimmer – Best for Carbon Fiber Shaft Battery
As a more convenient option, you can rely on this particular trimmer model to make fastening lug nuts more convenient. Unlike the rest of the items on this list, this is an electronic torque wrench with its own set of features. The most remarkable feature is undoubtedly the “target torque alert.”
This acts as an efficient alternative to the click mechanism in most torque wrench models. While fastening a lug nut, the wrench handle starts vibrating to let you know when the targeted torque is reached. Not only that, but it also warns you with a buzzer sound and an LED light indicator.
The aforementioned feature is highly beneficial when you’re trying to tighten the nuts in a hurry. Surpassing the specified torque can stress the essential components and reduce your vehicle’s lifespan. Besides that, the electronic trimmer comes with a 72 tooth ratchet head that maintains a tight grip.
This prevents the wrench from slipping out of place when you’re working. Moreover, it has a 5-inch swing arc which can come in handy when fastening nuts in tight spaces. This feature offers more versatility when working on different projects at once.
It should also be mentioned that this model is comprised of the most durable materials on today’s market. Both the handle and housing are made of oil and solvent-resistant materials. This significantly increases the item’s lifespan and ensures better durability.
The handle is also comfortable to use and doesn’t put any strain on your hand. Contrary to most models, this electronic torque wrench has 5 different torque measurement units – Nm, ft-lb, in-lb, kgf-m, kg-cm.
- Target torque alert
- LED light indicator
- 72 tooth ratchet head with 5-inch swing arc
- Oil and solvent resistant
- 5 different torque measurements
- Relatively expensive
6. Earthwise LST02010 20-Volt 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer – Best for Easy Operation
At number 6, we have this unique string trimmer with a pull adjustment collar feature. The pull adjustment system is a better alternative as it lets you alter the torque of the wrench swiftly. It’s quick, easy, and convenient. This tool is also highly accurate when it comes to measuring torque.
This is mainly due to the scale markings on the trimmer. The manufacturer has used modern technology to etch the scales precisely on the wrench’s body. And the markings are easily visible to the naked eye. Even a beginner-level mechanic can use this torque wrench to get accurate readings.
At first glance, you will notice that this micrometer string trimmer has a slim design. The sleek design, coupled with the teardrop ratchet head, allows you to reach those tight spaces that were previously inaccessible. Now you can fasten all the nuts and bolts securely with the correct torque specification.
The string trimmer has been pre-calibrated to +/- 3% accuracy, so you can surely rely on it. Thankfully, this efficient tool is also easy on your hands. It dawns a knurled handle that ensures a comfortable grip while you’re operating it. This allows the user to work for hours on end without facing any hand fatigue.
Its handle is made of anodized aluminum, so you never have to worry about rusting or corrosion. The use of aluminum makes the wrench both sturdy and lightweight. Even the midpoint of the torque wrench is visibly marked on the body. This helps you ensure better accuracy when fastening a lug nut.
- Pull adjustment collar feature
- Teardrop ratchet head design
- Anodized aluminum handle
- Sturdy and lightweight
- Pre-calibrated to +/- 3% accuracy
- Low tooth count
Types of String Trimmer
There are basically three main types of string trimmers on the market, each with its own defining features. The different types and their features are as follows.
1. Corded Electric String Trimmer
These string trimmers are powered by electricity and come in a cordless or corded model. It’s very convenient and more comfortable to use.
Also, the use of electricity means it’s eco-friendly. But electric weed eaters have typically less power than gas-powered weed whackers.
The corded electric string trimmer uses an electrical cable attached to the weed eater to power the motor. It’s useful as you don’t have to worry about charging or replacing batteries or fill up the gas.
It’s ideal to use in a small to medium size garden as you’re limited by the length of the cable. You can use extension cable in some situations, but it may become a hassle if you got several plants or bushes in the garden.
You may also have to keep unwinding your cable as you cut weed around the trees and bushes.
2. Battery Powered String Trimmer
This type of string trimmers are gaining popularity as it’s very convenient to use, weigh less than gas-powered trimmer, and are eco-friendly.
It’s ideal to use for any garden size as you’re not limited to how far you can move around, unlike corded electric weed eaters.
The battery also allows you to use it quickly for smaller jobs, such as cutting a small portion of lawn where you find new weed growth.
The only downside with a battery-powered string trimmer is that you have to keep it charged. It’s always a good practice to connect the battery with a charger after each use. It will avoid the battery dying off in the middle of the job.
String trimmers like this are more economical to operate than other types of string trimmer.
3. Gas-Powered String Trimmer
Gas-powered string trimmers are primarily targeted toward professional landscapers or people with a big backyard. It’s more powerful than the electric-powered string trimmer and allows you to cut thick and stronger weeds.
Here, the only downside is to keep it filled up with gas, and it generates lots of smoke. The gas engine is also noisier than the silent electric motor.
Plus, it’s heavier than the other string trimmer as these types of string trimmer have a small internal combustion engine. And you have to carry it around with a gas in it which adds extra weight.
If you decide to use a gas-powered string trimmer, then we recommend getting the model which has a transparent fuel tank. It helps you see the amount of fuel left in the tank.
Things to Look for in an Electric Weed Eater
There are some important features you need to keep in mind before purchasing. These will allow you to choose the best model and get your money’s worth.
Battery And Power
Regardless of whether you use a corded or cordless string trimmer, the primary power source in these types of weed eater is electricity. The electric current moves the trimmer motor inside. And the more powerful the engine, the more electricity it will consume.
This is where the power rating of the electric string trimmer comes in. The corded electric string trimmer plugin to standard 120 Volts with varying current levels depending on the power of the motor.
Choose a corded electric string trimmer when you need more power to remove more robust grass or weed. As we said earlier, choose it if you have a small to mid-size garden with not much obstruction to move the cable around.
Pick a cordless electric string trimmer if you don’t have tougher weeds or grass in the garden. The main benefit of a cordless string trimmer is increased mobility. You can move anywhere without getting restricted by the length of the cable.
Battery Charge Time
The battery charge time varies depending on the power rating and the battery type. Some batteries get fully charged in a few hours, and some take several hours to get charged.
Look for the batteries and the charger type if you need something which does not take too long to get fully charged.
Tip: The power of the electric motor is denoted in the Ampere (Amp). Most electric string trimmer comes in a range of 1 ampere to over 10 amperes. Higher the ampere means more powerful the string trimmer.
Moreover, for small yards, 1 amp to 4-amp rating will be enough. For large yards, pick anything more than a 5-amp rating.
String Trimmer Layout
The design and layout of the string trimmer are essential as you will be carrying it around with you for an extended period. A poorly designed string trimmer will make you get tired quickly, or it may be awkward for you to handle it.
Pay close attention to the motor position, the overall weight, and the length of the shaft. These are essential design factors that will make trimming a painful or pleasant experience.
Furthermore, the smooth and well-placed controls make it easier to operate the trimmer. The shaft of the trimmer connects the main motor to the feeder. There are two common design types of the shaft; straight shaft and curved shaft.
Now, the straight shaft is more convenient if you’re tall and need some distance between the holding handle and the ground. The curved shaft is lightweight and more comfortable to use around hard-to-reach places such as under the bush.
Find out which type of shaft design is more comfortable for you. Most trimmer models also allow you to adjust the shaft length.
String Trimmer Line
The line of a trimmer is made from nylon or a polymer string. And the trimmer line should be of good quality, so it doesn’t break when in use. There are two main types of trimmer lines available, the consumer-grade trimmer line and the commercial-grade trimmer line.
Moreover, the consumer-grade trimmer line is cheap and is suitable for small to the mid-size yard. The commercial-grade trimmer line uses high-quality, durable materials. It’s ideal to use if you’re a professional landscaper or have a big yard and tough weeds to remove.
It’s very common for these string trimmer line to break during the use regardless of how strong it’s. Keep some spare trimmer line just in case you need it while trimming your garden.
Shoulder Strap (Optional)
If you’re trimming a small yard or garden, then you may not need to carry it around for a long. But if you’re doing anything which requires you to hold a string trimmer for some time, then look for the shoulder straps.
Most electric string trimmers are lightweight, and you may not need one. But if you’re getting a heavy-duty and more powerful electric string trimmer, then it may be wise to pick a model which has a shoulder strap as it may get heavy.
The shoulder strap makes it easier to hold the trimmer, move it around to trim, and prevents you from getting backache.
Weight
As you may have imagined, weight is an essential consideration when looking for a string trimmer. Fortunately, the electric string trimmer is far lighter than the gas-powered string trimmer.
But check out the weight of the trimmer before you buy as it all depends on your comfort level to carry.
Ease of Use
The electric string trimmer is easier to use. The use of electricity means, there is no long waiting time or hassle of filling up a gas tank.
When you need to trim, simply attach the battery or plug it into the power outlet. Look for the length of the cord and layout of your yard when using a corded electric string trimmer.
If you have lots of plants and bushes, then it may not be convenient to use a corded string trimmer.
Trimmer Line Cutting Diameter
The cutting diameter of the lawn depends on the trimmer line length and the cutting feeder area. Pick a string trimmer depending on the size of your garden and the type of weed or grass you want to cut.
And for any small to medium size garden, choose a trimmer line which provides 10-15 inch of cutting diameter. For a large garden or when you have thick weeds or grass, choose a 15 to 18 inches cutting width.
Most of the gas-powered weed eaters have more full cutting diameter than the electric string trimmers.
String Trimmer Line-Feed
This allows you to trim the weed without getting any interruption. Some models have a manual line-feed where you have to turn-off the trimmer to change or unwind the line from the spool.
The bump head in the string trimmers automatically feeds the trimmer line with a simple tap on the ground. It reduces the time to trim as you won’t be stopping and changing the feed line.
Some trimmer line also has automatic line-feed (AFS) which releases the trimmer line when it gets too short.
Safety Considerations When Using a String Trimmer
There are certain safety factors as well that you must take under consideration when using a string trimmer. These factors will keep you and your device safe from imminent damage.
Noise Level
The electric string trimmer is less noisy than the gas-powered one. But you still get the noise from the motor and the noise from the string shaft.
Always wear protective noise cancellation headphones to prevent damage to your hearing ability. As the continuous long-term exposure affects the hearing ability, it’s better to put on earmuffs.
Plus, you don’t want to annoy your neighbor with noisy garden maintenance.
Protective Measures
The string trimmer feeder spins at a very high rate, which may become a safety issue.
Choose a string trimmer with a straight shaft as it allows you to maintain a reasonable distance between the weed and you. Also, the placement of an emergency cut-off switch is a nice safety feature if something goes off.
Accessories
Some string trimmer comes with an option to change the cutting line and spools. Additional attachments which you can use are brush-cutting blades or wider edging heads.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can You Run a String Trimmer Without a Filter?
Shop vacs are powerful enough to remove all types of dust and debris from the surface. Whether it’s dry or wet, a wet/dry shop vac can easily get rid of any mess. The best-rated portable shop vac works well even without a filter. With that being said, you can only collect wet debris without a filter.
Sucking up dry dust particles without a filter can clog and damage the machine.
2. How Much Horsepower Do You Need in a String Trimmer?
The amount of horsepower you need in a shop vac mainly depends on the type of mess you need to clean. 1 to 2 horsepower is more than enough for cleaning a small area. 3 to 5 horsepower is mostly recommended for collecting a large amount of debris on a regular basis.
3. Can a String Trimmer Pick Up Dry Grass?
Yes, a shop vac has enough suction power to pick up drywall dust. But to make sure it doesn’t get clogged up, you need to attach a HEPA filter along with a HEPA collection bag.
4. Which Trimmer has the Best Suction?
String trimmers are mostly known for their incredible suction power. There are several powerful shop vacs on the market, the best of which are listed above.
5. Is 4.5 hp Good for a Trimmer?
Yes, a trimmer with a 4.5 hp motor can suck up a large amount of debris efficiently.
Final Verdict
By now you probably have all the crucial information you need to make the correct purchase. Each of the products mentioned above has a different set of features that can aid the user in many ways.
This will make sure you get your money’s worth. It will also help you choose the best electric string trimmer in 2022.