String trimmers are the ideal gardening tool to tidy up those hard-to-reach borders around your lawn that your mower might struggle with. In this article, we highlight why you should consider purchasing one and list the different types to help you with your purchasing decision.
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Our Recommended Corded String Trimmers in 2022
10) Sun Joe TRJ13STE
A 4-Amp motor, 13-inch cutting width, and ergonomic handle ensure that this string trimmer offers a wonderful trimming experience. Even though this may not be the most advanced, or elaborate trimmer, the features it offers allow for a pleasant, and convenient, experience. If that is what you need, then this trimmer is a great choice.
- [POWERFUL]: 4-Amp motor
- [MAXIMUM CUTTING SWATH]: 13-inch
- [ERGONOMIC HANDLE]: adujsts for comfort
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9) LawnMaster GT1454
The 5.5-Amp motor goes very well with the ergonomic design of this string trimmer, and the strong blades it relies upon. Each one of these three features keeps the trimming experience easy, as well as flexible. You can adjust the head of this trimmer into seven different positions, all of which offer greater mobility and flexibility.
- POWERFUL MOTOR: 5.5 Amp motor
- 14-INCH CUTTING WIDTH: Dual-line 0.065-inch auto-feed trimmer head
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Comfort grip with rotating main handle
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8) LawnMaster Red Edition GT1644
For power and efficiency, you cannot go wrong with this string trimmer. A 10-Amp motor ensures that the blades run quickly, and that you can trim large amounts of bush in a short period of time. Furthermore, a 16-inch cutting width enhances the overall speed, and allows for even greater efficiency.
- Powerful motor: 10 Amp Motor
- 16-inch cutting width: With dual-line 0.08-inch auto-feed trimmer head
- Adjustable assist handle: With comfort-grip main handle for ease of operation
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7) Scotts ST00213S
If you need something simple and affordable, then this is a good string trimmer to own. You receive access to a 4-Amp motor, a few reliable blades, and a 13-inch cutting width. None of those features is particularly unique, but they all coalesce into an experience that is speedy and efficient.
- Weed whacker with a powerful 4-Amp electric motor for cutting grass and weeds around your home
- Corded edger with a cutting width of 13" with an auto feed
- Lawn weed wacker with an adjustable handle and telescopic pole for your trimming comfort
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6) Greenworks 21272
The 5.5-Amp motor this string trimmer relies upon, along with a 15-inch cutting width, keeps the trimming experience easy and enjoyable. You can cut through weeds, grass, and bushes of all sorts. Doing so is not a challenge, due to the features this trimmer offers, as well as a lightweight, ergonomic design that emphasizes comfort and mobility.
- Lightweight, easy to use design, only 7.05 pounds
- 15 inch cut path with pivoting head allows for edging and trimming capability with edging wheel
- 0.065 dual line auto feed with electric start gets you going within seconds, no gas hassle
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5) Toro 51480
By purchasing this string trimmer, you receive a 5-Amp motor, and a 14-inch cutting width. Neither of these features is unique, but they don’t need to be. Rather, both of these features create a speed and efficiency that is adequate for most trimming tasks. As such, if that is what you need, then this is a great trimmer to own.
- Corded 14-inch electric trimmer/edger with a powerful 5 amp motor
- Extra-wide 14-inch dual-line cutting head gets the job done faster; auto-feed trim line
- One-step walk-behind edging--switch from a trimmer to an edger in seconds
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4) TrimmerPlus TPE720
The entirety of this string trimmer weighs just six-pounds. As a result of this, the overall cutting width is just 7.5-inches. But, you can attach a second blade to the trimmer. To go along with that, there’s a guide wheel on the back of the trimmer, which keeps the trimmer steady, and makes most trimming tasks considerably easier.
- 7.5 INCH DUAL STEEL BLADE: Hardened steel blade trims between sidewalks, curbs, and landscape beds to give a...
- LARGE GUIDE WHEEL: Keeps you on a straight path for easier edging. Stay in firm control during yard work
- ADJUSTABLE BLADE DEPTH: Can adjust blade depth up to 25-inches for more precise edging and cutting. Find the...
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3) Greenworks 21142
Just as the name suggests, this string trimmer offers a 10-Amp motor, and a cutting width of 18-inches. Both of these features, as you would expect, ensure that you have plenty of trimming power, as well as a blade that is long enough to perform thorough, swift cuts on large quantities of bush.
- 10Amp motor with straight shaft and .080 dual line bump feed
- Light weight and simple electric start with cord lock feature makes it easy to use
- Large 18" cutting path helps speed up the trimming process
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2) CRAFTSMAN CMESTE920
If you compare this string trimmer to the others in this guide, you will not find any particularly unique or distinctive features. What you will find, though, is a string trimmer that works well, and offers a pleasant trimming experience. If that is what you need, then this is a good trimmer to own.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: High performance 6.5 Amp motor helps to tackle tough overgrowth
- EDGE CAPABILITY: Allows users to quickly change from trimming to edging
- PUSH BUTTON FEED SYSTEM: Allows you to control the 0.065-in. line with a push of a button
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1) BLACK+DECKER BESTA510
A 6.5-Amp motor and 14-inch cutting width keep the experience simple, easy, and effective. You may not find anything particularly unique, when it comes to what this string trimmer offers. But, what you will find is a pleasant trimming experience, as well as capabilities that are more than sufficient for most trimming tasks.
- Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) technology of the edger/trimmer eliminates bumping for hassle-free line feeding...
- The 6.5 amp motor and POWERDRIVE Transmission of the grass cutter provide maximum performance when trimming...
- 2-in-1 trimmer/edger with wheeled edge guide - just rotate to convert from lawn trimmer to wheeled edger
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What are String Trimmers and Why Should I Use One?
As the name suggests, a string trimmer is a trimmer that uses a string to trim your lawn. It works at high speed and spins a spool of line which does the trimming.
Whenever you mow a lawn, there’s usually some grass close to fences or rocky areas you can’t reach properly. This leaves you with an untidy finish, and if you attempt to cut these problematic areas, you can damage your lawnmower. The value of a string trimmer can be felt in these instances.
You can use string trimmers for specific tasks like cutting grass situated near obstacles or borders. Grass on steep inclines is also easier to cut with a string trimmer than a lawnmower, which has to be pushed uphill.
Although string trimmers are easily confused with edgers, they aren’t the same. However, some trimmers can be used as edgers when their setup is adjusted. If you like your garden edges nicely trimmed, make sure you purchase a string trimmer that can function as an edger too!
Different Types of String Trimmers Available
Many different types of string trimmers are available, but gas and electrical models are most often purchased. Other types include:
- Walk-Behind Wheeled Trimmers
- 4-Stroke Weed Whackers
- Commercial Weed Eaters
- Battery Powered String Trimmers
Electric vs Gas Trimmers
Although many people prefer gas-powered garden tools, they can become a lot of work. Remembering to have gas on hand and filling up the tank every time you want to use your tools can become a tiring task. Usually, they’re also heavier than their electric counterparts.
Electric string trimmers are capable of chopping off untidy grass patches and weeds with little power. They’re lightweight, and you won’t have to worry about running out of fuel in the middle of your gardening session.
The only drawback is that you’ll be trailing a cord behind you, but cord retention systems make this unnoticeable. If electricity prices are compared with fuel costs, electric trimmers still save you a ton!
In short, there’s really no reason why a gas-powered string trimmer is a better choice than an electric one.
The Pros and Cons of Electrical String Trimmers
Advantages
They’re inexpensive compared to most other models.
They have almost no maintenance.
They’re easy to understand and use.
They are lightweight.
They’re easy to store.
Disadvantages
They have a cord attached, which gets dragged along as you work and can potentially be cut when in the way.
They’re typically less powerful than other models.
Although they have disadvantages, when keeping their advantages in mind, they’re a great, inexpensive option when you have a small area that needs trimming and won’t be using it frequently.
The Different Types of Electric String Trimmers
When choosing an electric corded string trimmer, there are particular features you should look for to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Power
The price you pay for a string trimmer is highly dependant on the power it has. The more amperes the motor has, the more cutting power you’ll get.
Durability
To ensure you get value for the money you spend, your chosen trimmer needs to be durable. Instead of going for the cheapest option, spend a bit more on a high-quality string trimmer. If it lasts long, it’ll pay for itself in the long run!
Weight
The weight of your trimmer will play a significant role in how comfortable it is to use. Luckily, most electrical string trimmers are lightweight because they don’t have a fuel tank or battery compartment. If the trimmers’ motor is situated on one end and the cutting head on the other, it will balance well, which also helps with weight distribution.
Cord
Electrical string trimmers are usually limited by their cord. If you have large areas that you need to cover, make sure that the cord is long enough, or alternatively, purchase an extender cord.
Handle
Having a string trimmer with an uncomfortable hold will make you rue working with it. Make sure that your chosen model has an ergonomic design and soft grip. Ultimately, it should be easy on your wrists. Some models have a handle that can pivot or extend for a longer reach, depending on the required type of trimming.
Shaft
Choosing between a straight or curved shaft will mainly depend on your height, cutting needs, and ultimately personal preferences. The shaft portion of the string trimmer refers to the parts that connect the handle and cutting head, and each type has its pros and cons.
Straight shafts work best with tall people, are mainly used by professionals, and they’re more versatile when it boils down to hard-to-reach areas. Straight shafts are also longer, heavier, and a bit more challenging to use.
A curved shaft is more suitable for short people, more comfortable to control, ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, and easier to turn on their side for edging and reaching crannies and nooks. Generally, they’re also cheaper but can be more difficult to store.
Cutting Head
The cutting head will do all the work, so make sure you choose a trimmer with a sturdy one. Ideally, there shouldn’t be a gap between the shaft and the cutting head, as this will prevent weeds and tall grass from getting stuck. Remember to also look at how the cutting head can be cleaned for instances where debris gets stick in it.
The higher the cutting heads’ revolutions per minute (RPM) is, the faster it will rotate and the better it will cut.
String
As per the name, the string is an integral part of a string trimmer. This is situated inside the cutting head and cuts through grass and weeds as the head spins at high speed. To prevent the string from wearing out fast, you need to ensure that you buy one of good quality.
Besides the actual string, you should also pay attention to the different string attachments available. A spool attachment will last long, but it can get jammed quickly. Fixed-line attachments don’t jam as often, but with them, the string wears out faster.
String trimmers also have different string feeds. A bump feed can be bumped on a hard, flat surface when you want the string to extend, while an automatic feed extends the string with the push of a button.
Controls
Some string trimmer models have controls that help regulate the cutting head’s speed, so if you want this added feature, make sure your chosen trimmer has it.
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