The lawnmower is an indispensable piece of lawn care equipment. But it’s the string trimmer – or weed whacker – that keeps your lawn looking spotless and well-kept. It’s only with a string trimmer that you can cut the tall grass around steps, fences, trees, and flowerbeds.
What is a string trimmer? A string trimmer is basically a shaft with a motor on one end and a propeller on the other.
This piece of lawn care equipment puts the finishing touches on a mowed landscape. The motor-powered propeller cuts down tall grass and weeds in a way that a lawnmower cannot.
String trimmers are powered by either gas, electricity, or a battery. If you intend to buy one, you’ll find countless models available online.
Choosing a Battery-Powered String Trimmer
Contents
In most situations, a battery-powered string trimmer provides enough runtime and power for the average residential yard. This is especially true with the latest advances in lithium-ion battery technology.
Battery-powered trimmers emit no harmful fumes. They start instantly every time, without fussing over the choke or yanking a pull cord.
The one drawback here is that you’ll probably need a second battery. That’s just in case you run out of power while trimming.
We’ve compiled a shortlist of four of the best-reviewed battery-powered string trimmers below. We hope our insights into each will help you make a choice.
1. Ego ST1511T Power+ String Trimmer
We’ll start with what we and other experts think is the best premium string trimmer on the market today. Compared with other cordless trimmers, the Ego ST1511T Power+ String Trimmer is in a class all its own.
This machine is among the most powerful battery-powered string trimmers on the market. Wirecutter says “it will cut through 1-inch-thick Japanese knotweed as if it were grass.”
True enough, the Ego ST1511T did not disappoint during our tests. This trimmer cuts exceedingly well. We feel it’s a little less aggressive than other models, but it’s still more than enough for residential purposes.
In other respects, it has nice balance and comfortable front and rear handles – and it’s ruggedly built.
The battery packs sufficient run-time power for that purpose, too. We encountered no problems at all using the trimmer on our medium-sized test property. But you should consider purchasing an extra battery if you intend to use this tool on a larger lawn.
We also liked ST1511T’s telescoping carbon-fiber shaft and handle. They are easy to adjust, which made the tool quite comfortable to use, even for extended trimming chores.
But the feature that makes this machine unique is its powered string rewinding. EGO calls this functionality Powerload.
How does it work? You feed a precut length of string through the head. You then press the rewind button at the end of the shaft. The string zooms into the head in seconds.
Some have suggested that this is nothing more than a gimmick. That might be true. Still, it could prove useful for preventing misfeeds and other problems you might encounter while loading the line.
2. Worx WG170 GT Revolution 20V Grass Trimmer
The Worx WG170 GT Revolution 20V Grass Trimmer is among the highest-rated, bestselling string trimmers on Amazon. While we cannot say it’s as powerful as a gas-powered trimmer, it does pack a punch. This is especially true for trimming the average lawn and backyard.
The trimmer has a cutting swath of 12 inches and uses a 0.065″ line. You can transform the WG170 into an edger and mini-mower, too. It’s an excellent edger, but not a good mini-mower. Some might find this function useful, though.
The ergonomics of this tool are quite good. It weighs less than other cordless string trimmers at 6.6 pounds, too. The shaft is adjustable. The head tilts 90 degrees. You can adjust the auxiliary handle, and the wheels are removable
The Worx Command Feed system allows you to feed the string with a push of a button. But we found that – at least for our test unit – every time you push the button, the motor stops. That can be annoying.
Worx offers different kits of this model. The most popular kit comes with two 20V 2.0Ah batteries. Each 20V 2.0Ah battery lasts about 20 to 25 minutes on a full charge.
Charging will take hours on a standard charger. But Worx does offer a quick charger that will charge one battery in 25 minutes.
Overall, we’d say this is a good trimmer for the price it commands. Some might find it a bit underpowered. But we think it offers much in the way of functionality and value for your money.
3. Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer
The Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer is the number one bestselling trimmer on Amazon right now. It’s newer and more popular than its older brother, the WG170. It’s also much lighter at 5.3 pounds.
This tool boasts all the advantages of cordless weed whackers. You have complete freedom of movement. No messing with a cord. No switching outlets.
The trimmer is excellent for regular cutting, edging, and cleanup on small and medium-sized properties. You’ll have no trouble performing those tasks with the WG163. But don’t expect it to clear large areas or cut through some tougher weeds.
Like the WG170, the WG163 features the Worx Command Feed system, as well. Some customers like this system. Others claim it’s unnecessary and impractical.
Again, like the WG170, the WG163 comes with not only one but two batteries. Each will give you about 20 minutes of work. That’s should be enough to maintain a regular-sized suburban lawn.
Unlike the WG170, the WG163 does not have the puzzling mini-mower function. You cannot reposition the dual wheels on this model. But most of the other functions remain.
The shaft is telescopic so you can set its length. You can adjust the front handle, too, and tilt the trimming head 90 degrees to access hard-to-reach areas.
We think the latter feature makes the WG163 better for edging under bushes and planters than the heavier WG170. We quite comfortably cleared hard-to-reach edges and corners under stoops using the WG 163.
The bottom line? If you need an inexpensive trimmer with an edger function, the Worx WG163 GT 3.0 is an excellent choice. It’s lightweight, offers several useful adjustments, and boasts good battery time, as well.
4. BLACK+DECKER 20V Max String Trimmer/Edger
The BLACK+DECKER 20V Max String Trimmer/Edger is a versatile and powerful tool designed for maintaining your yard. With a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery, this string trimmer and edger can provide long-lasting power and runtime.
The tool also features a lightweight and ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to use and maneuver. Its adjustable height and pivoting handle allows you to customize the tool to your specific needs and preferences, making it ideal for trimming and edging around borders, fences, and other landscaping elements.
Additionally, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger has speed control that provides increased power and runtime for tough weeds and grass. Best of all, its automatic feed spool ensures continuous work without bumping, making your gardening tasks easier and more efficient.
“This weed eater allows me to easily keep on top of all the weeds in my yard, preventing them from going to seed and worsening the problem,” according to one customer review. “It literally weighs about 2 lbs. The auto feed works well and the battery life is good. It’s wonderful and I highly recommend it.”
It’s no surprise this thing is a hit on Amazon. Get this weed whacker and you will not have to deal with pesky weeds spreading their seeds. Keep your yard looking chill and totally maintained!
Our Verdict
Our Verdict? If you need a high-quality string trimmer, the BLACK+DECKER 20V Max String Trimmer/Edger makes a good option. Many have reported positive experiences with its power and efficiency. It is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a convenient tool for yard work. However, it’s worth noting that individual preferences and specific needs vary. It’s important to do your research and consider your unique requirements before making a purchase.
Summary
Choosing a battery-powered string trimmer can be a daunting task. But, there are several determining factors that can help you make the best decision. to consider:
Consider the power and runtime of the battery. The higher the voltage of the battery, the more power the trimmer will have. Similarly, the higher the ampere-hour (Ah) rating, the longer the runtime. Choose a trimmer with a battery that has enough power and runtime to handle your yard work.
The cutting path and line diameter determine the width of the area that the trimmer can cut in a single pass. Choose a trimmer with a cutting path and line diameter that is suitable for the size of your yard and the type of vegetation you need to trim.
The weight and ergonomics of the trimmer can affect your comfort and ease of use. Choose a trimmer that is lightweight and has comfortable handles that are easy to grip.
Additionally, some trimmers come with extra features, such as adjustable handles, telescoping shafts, and pivoting heads. Determine whether these features will be beneficial for your yard work.
Battery-powered string trimmers can vary in price. Consider your budget and choose a trimmer that provides good value for money and meets your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the battery-powered string trimmer that is best suited to your needs and preferences.
