Best Way To Edge With A String Trimmer (Illustrated Guide). The works weed wacker

Buying guide for best worx weed eaters

If you have a lawn, you’re going to be dealing with weeds. Weeds come from a number of places — birds, wind, local transplant, and even tainted grass seed — so they’re nearly impossible to avoid. Thankfully, there are several effective ways to mitigate the problem. Weed eaters are among the best because they physically cut back vegetation to slow its growth and remove unsightly blemishes from your lawn, and Worx makes some of the best electric weed trimmers out there.

Worx offers a line of lightweight electric weed eaters that are flexible enough to handle a variety of chores and powerful enough to do them easily. These trimmers require no fuel and very little maintenance compared to their gas-powered cousins, and while they may offer less power, they make up for it in versatility and ease of use. Depending on the model, a Worx weed eater can quickly switch from trimmer to edger to mini mower, providing a clever, intuitive solution to nearly every lawn job.

Read our buying guide and check out our recommendations to find the right weed eater for your yard maintenance.

Electric weed eaters are best suited for methodical gardeners who want to maintain a relatively small space. They’re a snap to use and maintain, but for larger areas with thick vegetation, a powerful gas trimmer may be a better option.

Key considerations

Corded vs. cordless

Worx weed trimmers come in two types: corded and cordless.

Corded models are cheaper on the whole, and Worx recommends them for yards smaller than 1/4 acre. The obvious benefit with a corded model is there is no battery to charge, but you’re limited by the length of your extension cord.

Cordless models, in contrast, offer significantly more freedom of movement, but the batteries must be charged regularly. There are very inexpensive cordless weed trimmers available, but they’re generally a bit costlier than their cord-bound cousins.

Size

The size and weight of your weed eater are vital considerations because they determine how quickly you can accomplish the yard work and how comfortable you’ll be while doing it. Choose a product that’s an appropriate size for your frame, keeping in mind that several Worx options have telescoping handles and several adjustment points.

The diameter of a weed eater’s cutting surface is similarly important. A trimmer with a 15-inch cutting surface can tackle large weeds and unwanted grass very quickly compared to a 10-inch model, but the added utility comes with a weight penalty. Choose the right balance for your body and your yard, remembering that spot weed treatment doesn’t require a huge cutting surface. If you aim to use your weed eater as a mini mower, though, perhaps a larger version is better.

Power

Just like gas-powered weed eaters, electric models are available with a wide variety of power levels to fit your needs.

Corded trimmers have motors that are rated in amps, and more amps equal more power. Average to good power is 4 to 6 amps, because anything below that may struggle to cut dense weeds and grass.

Cordless models have batteries that are rated in volts, with the majority falling somewhere in the range of 20 to 40 volts. The lower end of that range is sufficient for everyday use, but for thicker vegetation, opt for a 40-volt model. If you really need to tear through some greenery, consider a 56-volt weed trimmer for performance that approaches that of a gas-powered model.

String feed

Weed trimmer strings break as they’re used, and you’ll need to replace that section of line. You can accomplish this in a number of ways, including bump feeding, auto feeding, or simply replacing the fixed line.

Bump feeding unspools more string on demand. The user simply bumps the bottom of the trimmer head on a flat surface during use, and this activates a mechanism that pushes out more string.

Automatic feeding is an extremely common feature on Worx weed trimmers, as the brand’s main mission is to make lawn care more convenient. Put simply, auto-feeding trimmers send out more line as needed without the user having to do anything.

Fixed line electric trimmers are very uncommon, but they’re rather prevalent with gas-powered versions. These trimmers are extremely simple. You manually place a section of heavy line in the head and replace it as needed. This obviously requires more work on the job, but the device’s uncomplicated design improves reliability over time.

We value weed eaters that offer precise control. Most Worx weed eaters have a straight shaft, which offers excellent precision.

We love the fact that Worx weed eaters operate well at any angle. We give bonus points to those with a pair of wheels that keep them moving in a straight line at a consistent height.

We explore the noise output of Worx weed eaters, which is generally less than that of gas-powered weed eaters.

We note the ergonomics of a weed eater’s handles and trigger to make sure we’re recommending tools that are comfortable to use, even during long jobs.

We appreciate weed eaters with a refined automatic head that feeds string consistently while minimizing tangles and breaks.

While most Worx weed eaters use one 20V battery, a few models use 40V or even 56V power sources. We evaluate the amount of power put out by these machines, noting that the stronger ones provide nearly as much power as gas-powered trimmers.

We look for Worx weed eaters with a thoughtful design, dependable build quality, and a near-complete lack of vibration.

We compare the construction quality and overall value of Worx weed eaters to those from other top-selling lawn equipment brands.

We give bonus points to weed eaters that balance power, convenience, and a relatively light weight. Many offerings from Worx offer these qualities.

Features

Adjustability

Worx weed trimmers are built to be light and comfortable to use, and they often include adjustment points to make your lawn-care routine more ergonomic. Worx products have a telescoping shaft that allows the user to scale the device to their height, which can ease the strain on the arms and back. You can also adjust the angle of the trimming head. Both of these adjustments can be done on the fly by pressing a couple buttons.

Multi-tool functionality

Select Worx trimmers can be transformed into edgers and even mini-mowers without the use of tools. If applicable, all that’s required to turn your trimmer into an edger is to flip it on its side, rotate the handle to match, and adjust the head angle if needed. These models have wheels and guidelines built in, which makes it simpler than ever to maintain clean, sharp lines on your lawn.

The mini-mower transformation is even easier. All you need to do is flip the guide wheels down in place, allowing you to maintain a consistent trimming height for mowing small areas. While they lack the power of a traditional mower, they’re extremely light and easy to maneuver, which is perfect for areas with diverse terrain. They can also help mulch grass trimmings and spread them evenly over your lawn.

Worx weed eater prices

Inexpensive: Entry-level Worx weed trimmers cost as little as 40 to 80. You’ll still primarily find dual-lined models in this category, with 4- to 6-amp corded and 20-volt cordless models being common.

Mid-range: For 80 to 120, expect larger weed eaters with cutting diameters exceeding 12 inches. Multi-tool attachments also show up in this category, as do beefier cordless models with 40- and 56-volt batteries.

Expensive: At the top of the range, you may pay 120 to 150 or more for a Worx weed trimmer. The largest cutting diameters are found in this segment, as well as more advanced multi-tools and more powerful batteries.

Tips

Weed eater shafts can be straight or curved. Models with a curved shaft are extremely good for working over open ground, but they can be more difficult to use. All Worx weed trimmers have a straight shaft, which provides excellent balance and ergonomics.

FAQ

Q. My weed eater is filthy from prolonged use. How should I clean it?A. Weed eaters can accumulate some serious grime, including dirt, grass clippings, and wood fibers. These must be removed to guarantee proper (and safe) operation, but cleaning a Worx weed trimmer isn’t as simple as spraying water on it. Doing so can damage the electronics.

First, disconnect the power source, either by unplugging the power cord or detaching the battery. Remove dirt and debris by hand, brush, or another tool, using a back-and-forth movement on stubborn grime. If that won’t do, detach the head, if you’re able to do so, and soak it in warm, soapy water to loosen the dirt. Make sure the head is completely dry before reinstalling it or storing the tool.

Q. How do I change my weed trimmer’s strings?A. One of the biggest selling points of a Worx weed eater is its convenience, and that applies to changing the strings as well. Model-specific instructions may vary, but there’s a fairly standard process that encompasses all versions.

First, remove the trimmer head cover. Press the release tabs on the sides of the trimmer head (they hold the spool of string in place). Remove the spool from the trimmer head. If you have another preloaded spool on hand, snap it into place. Replace the cover. Feed the end of the line through the holes on the trimmer head, and you’re all set!

If you’re manually reloading the spool, use the following steps. Cut two pieces of Worx-approved trimmer line, each measuring 25 feet. Feed the tip of one string through the hole on the inside edge of the spool, then wrap it around the spool. There should be a small arrow on the spool that indicates which direction it should go. Add a second string to your trimmer, if applicable. When there are 6 inches or so left, replace the cover and feed the remaining 6-inch ends of your strings through the holes on the trimmer head.

Q. How can I turn my Worx weed trimmer into an edger?A. Some Worx weed trimmers can be transformed into edgers with a few simple steps. There are no tools needed in most cases, and the process can usually be done on the fly.

Turn the trimmer off and disconnect the power source. Rotate the rear handle 90°. This may require you to push a button first to unlock it, but the idea is to rotate the handle to an ergonomic position, one that allows you to maneuver the device comfortably while it’s effectively on its side. Adjust the trimmer head angle to its lowest horizontal setting, which means the handle should be standing up perpendicular to the trimmer strings and the ground.

Depending on your model, there are two white lines (or something similar) that show the cutting path of your trimmer line. Use these lines as a guide for perfect, even edge lines on your lawn. For more specifics, refer to your model’s instructions.

Best Way To Edge With A String Trimmer (Illustrated Guide)

I learned how to edge my lawn with a string trimmer out of necessity. For some time now I have had my eye on a battery-powered edger. I’m not quite ready to pull the trigger on it though so I make do with what I have.

Best way to edge a lawn with a string trimmer: The most effective way of edging with a trimmer is by turning the trimmer on its side with the string spinning away from you and placing the shaft on your shoulder. This allows precise movement of the string along the edges as well as visual confirmation as you work.

String trimmers, weed eaters, or weed whackers as they are commonly known, are not considered the best tool for the job when it comes to edging. That being said, I have seen many homeowners and a decent number of professionals using trimmers to get the job done just fine. And I get by with this technique as well.

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Let’s walk through this process and I will demonstrate exactly how this is done.

Trimmers Vs. Edgers

It’s important to acknowledge that the absolute best way to get any project done is to have the right tool for the job. When it comes to edging, no tool will give you as true and straight of a cut as an edger. That being said, it is still possible to get impressive results using a string trimmer.

I’ve used the STIHL KombiSystem for years so that’s what I’m going to be demonstrating with. But the technique is the same regardless of the brand of string trimmer that you are using.

First Things First: Direct Debris Away From You!

When you edge with a string trimmer by turning it on its side you are reducing its built-in ability to protect you from flying debris. This is because the weed guard is designed to be used in a horizontal, not vertical orientation.

Because of this, we need to make sure that debris is directed away from you. String Trimmers generally rotate clockwise but check yours first to be sure. Once you are certain of the rotation, you can determine the best direction to hold your trimmer while edging.

It’s also a really good idea to wear safety glasses or goggles while doing this.

Step 1: Rotate The String Trimmer Into An Edging Position

Holding the string trimmer in its normal position, rotate the shaft until the guard is up and you have a clear line of sight to the string. You will notice that as you rotate it, the angle of the trimmer head changes. Our goal is to get the trimmer head close to 90 degrees with the surface.

You will notice that by simply rotating the head over we do not get a true 90-degree angle. In order for this to work, we need to raise the back end of the string trimmer. That’s where the next step comes in.

Step 2: Shoulder-Mount The Trimmer Shaft To Edge

This is a little misleading because you generally are not actually resting the trimmer shaft on your shoulder. What you are doing is holding the shaft in your hand and resting your arm in this upward position near your shoulder.

Be mindful with gas-engine trimmers that you do not put the engine too close to your head so as to avoid burns. I’ve never had an issue with this to be honest since you aren’t actually holding it right next to your ear, it is several inches away. Still, be mindful of this.

You will notice that this position will put the string at just about the 90-degree angle that we are looking for. While the position may look awkward it is surprisingly comfortable. The back end of the trimmer is simply resting on your hand.

Note: Hearing protection is a good idea anytime you are working with gas-engine yard tools but especially when holding one this close to your ear. Click here to read about the noise-canceling headphones that I use anytime I’m working with loud yard engines.

Step 3: Edge With Your String Trimmer At A Slow But Steady Pace

Don’t get in a rush as you do this, especially in the beginning when you are learning. You want to move slowly but deliberately along the edge line, careful to stay on your intended path. You can absolutely maul your yard’s edge line if you try to go too fast. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

Why Use The Shoulder-Mount Approach

It’s possible to simply rotate the shaft and edge by holding the trimmer in much the same fashion as you would when weed-eating. The problem is that this technique can result in more back strain.

I found that my back was always aching when trying to edge in this manner. By holding the trimmer next to my shoulder I can rest the shaft on my arm and significantly reduce back strain.

Additionally, as I stated earlier, simply rotating the weed eater’s head will not give you a true 90-degree angle for edging. You need to raise the back end of the trimmer to get this angle.

Tips For Best Practices When Edging Using A String Trimmer

Flying Debris

As a rule, you are going to want to be extra mindful of nearby cars, Windows, and people since edging with a string trimmer does not provide the same level of debris control as it does when using it for trimming.

You have to remember that the plastic debris guard is turned up while edging. While this may help to prevent some debris from flying directly up, it sure doesn’t stop it from shooting out to the side.

Since we decided on rock for our flower bed (we considered pine straw but you may want to read this article if you are considering using pine straw as mulch.

The point is, small rocks and sticks can act like projectiles as they are thrown away by the string. Be mindful of this. Wear eye protection and always be aware of the direction that the debris is being thrown.

Straight Lines Take Patience And Practice

If you find yourself frustrated with the results you are getting, remember that this is a new technique for you and that it will take some time to get good at it. If you stick with it you will be surprised how quickly you can master straight edging lines. It may never overshadow the results of a truly dedicated edger, but it will still give you impressive results with a little practice.

Can I Taper My Edges With This Technique?

If you prefer to taper the edges instead of having a 90-degree angle, you can simply rotate the shaft slightly so that the trimmer cuts at roughly a 45-degree angle. This is very easy to do and might be a better solution for you depending on your situation.

Is An Electric Or Gas Powered String Trimmer Better For Edging?

The results will be the same but electric trimmers do generally offer a weight advantage over gas-powered models. For example, the gas-powered Husqvarna 129C weighs 10 pounds. Compare that to the WORX WG163 20V battery-powered trimmer that weighs just 5.3 pounds.

At the same time, it depends on your physical condition and comfort level. The STIHL KombiSystem that I use weighs around 12 pounds with the trimmer attachment. My 14-year-old son and I use it just fine for edging. If you feel that the weight may be an issue, however, read below to ascertain whether you should use your string trimmer to edge or just buy a dedicated lawn edge tool.

Note: There is also a significant noise difference between gas and battery trimmers. As for technique, however, the shoulder-mount approach can work for either model so long as the shaft length allows for it.

Should You Use A String Trimmer Or Just Buy An Edger?

As I said at the onset, this technique works but it will not give you the level of precision that you will get from an actual edger. There are several factors that you need to consider if you plan to edge with a string trimmer.

Edge Lines Are Not As Accurate

I explained earlier that straight lines take practice but you should be realistic in your expectations. There is no edge line as clean and distinct as the cut from a dedicated lawn edge tool.

I have watched lawn care pros using the should-mount edging technique with string trimmers and they can get impressive results. But there are two important points to note:

Cordless String Trimmer & Edger-Worx WG163 #shorts

What is important here is that you manage your expectations and remember that you will get better at it with time but it may never quite reach that precision-groomed look that a true lawn edge tool gives.

Edge Tools Are A Better Choice Ergonomically

Shoulder-mounting a string trimmer to use it as an edger does relief a lot of the back pain but you are still using the tool it a manner that it was not designed for. As a result, it is not as ergonomically friendly as just using an actual lawn edge tool. Edgers are designed to be operated in that orientation and so they are generally more comfortable to use for longer periods.

I get by just fine using my weed eater as an edger but I recognize the benefit of having the right tool for the job. As a result, I’ve been on the search for a solid battery-powered edger. I’ve even considered going the dual-purpose route with the WORX WG163 which is both a trimmer and an edger and is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery.

What I do not recommend unless you have very specific circumstances is a corded edger (or trimmer for that matter). I actually own a Black and Decker corded Edger and it sits in my garage collecting dust because it is just too much of a hassle to use. Save yourself the frustration and go with a battery-powered model if you choose to purchase a separate edge tool.

Conclusion

You can absolutely edge with a string trimmer. It takes some practice and it’ll never truly match the precision of a dedicated edge tool but it can be done.

Take your time, perfect your technique, and don’t beat yourself up over a few mauled areas as you are learning. The more you do it the better you will get at it. And that holds true for pretty much anything in life.

You may have noticed that I use a STIHL trimmer. I’ve used their powered yard tools for years. If you are interested in learning if the performance and reliability of this brand warrant the cost, read my article titled Are STIHL Trimmers Worth The Money? Cost Vs. Benefit Review.

If you already own a STIHL trimmer, make sure you understand How To Grease The Gearbox.

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

Gas-Powered vs. Battery-Powered Weed Eaters

Do the loud noises from neighborhood lawn equipment ruin your quiet Saturday? Or are you more, “Give me power at any cost?” These are things you’ll need to consider when choosing between gas vs. battery-powered weed eaters.

Battery-powered and gas-powered weed eaters do the same job, so you may wonder, “What’s the difference?” Actually, power sources mean big differences in the use and performance of machines. Before you buy a weed eater, you want to know what type of machine will serve your lawn most efficiently and whether or not the noise or gas smell will bother you.

We’ll discuss the pros and cons of gas-powered vs. battery-powered weed eaters to help you decide which is best for your lawn.

• Why do I need a weed eater?
• Essential weed eater terms
• Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters
• Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters
• Which is the best weed eater for me?
• FAQ about weed eaters

Why do I need a weed eater?

Weed eaters are an indispensable power tool in the DIY lawn maintenance tool kit. These handy machines help homeowners and lawn pros cut down grass and weeds in areas that a lawn mower just won’t reach.

If you have a drain ditch in your lawn or a steep slope, a weed eater will keep the grass looking nice and neat. These machines also create that professional, finished look when you use them to create clean lines around the edge of your lawn and flower beds.

Believe it or not, battery- and gas-powered machines aren’t the only types of weed eaters on the market. You’ll also see electric string trimmers (AKA corded models that require an extension cord) and even propane weed eaters.

Electric models are popular in very small, “postage stamp” lawns, and propane models perform as well as gas. While it’s good to know there are other options, we’ll FOCUS on the more popular gas-powered and cordless models in this article.

Not only do weed eaters accomplish many lawn tasks, but they also have many names:

• Weed whacker (or weed wacker)
• Whipper snipper
• Weed trimmer
• String trimmer
• Strimmer
• Weed whipper
• Line trimmer
• Grass trimmer

They all mean the same thing and do the same job. Here are a few brands you’re probably familiar with:

Essential weed eater terms

If you’re a weed eater novice, here are a few terms and components to familiarize yourself with as you do your research:

Power source

Gas models rely on gas and oil to power the engine. Battery-powered models rely on batteries — usually a lithium-ion battery. Both types offer brushless motors as well. Brushless motors are more efficient and less noisy than brushed motors. If you’re concerned about cost, though, know that the brushless motors are more expensive.

When you look at these power sources, gas models will label motor power in cubic centimeters (cc) and battery models will label it in volts (24V). The higher the number, the more power they offer.

Battery-powered models work well on lawns up to an acre, depending on your level of power. Use a machine with 20-40 volts for up to ½ acre, or from 40-80 volts for up to an acre. If your lawn is over an acre, you may want to consider a gas-powered machine.

Also, pay attention to rpm (revolutions per minute). Some will have a variable speed option as well (3,500 rpm, 5,300 rpm, 6,500 rpm) to save battery power. The higher rpm, the better the line will cut through thicker material.

Line feed

There are four types of feed systems: bump feed, auto-feed, command feed, and fixed-line feed. The purpose of the feed system is to release more line when you’re running low.

• Bump feed: Tap the machine on the ground a few times while it’s running to get a longer string. This system is quick and easy and, if you’ve removed the guard, it gives you control over the length of your line.

• Auto-feed: The trimmer uses its own “brain” to release more line when the line is too short. This system is convenient but gives the operator less control over the length of the line.

• Command feed: When you run low on line, simply push a button or turn a dial, and the feed mechanism will release more line. This is similar to the bump feed because you can make your line as short or long as you wish.

• Fixed-line system: Buy pre-measured segments of line to load into the feed mechanism when your line runs low. This system works with fixed-line heads to load a pre-cut length of line into the machine. These heads are often ideal for heavy-duty trimmers that require thicker string.

Trimmer line (or blade)

Different trimmers will accept different trimmer line widths. (Trimmer line is the string that does all of the cutting.) Some battery-powered models accept slightly thinner line widths than gas models. Some trimmers come with the option to buy blades for tougher jobs.

Handle

You can choose from two main types of handles: loop handles or bicycle (AKA “bullhorn”) handles. Loop handles are most common on residential weed eaters. Bicycle handles may be more comfortable for larger, longer, brush clearing jobs. Try both types to see which feels more comfortable for you.

Shaft

Weed eaters come with curved shafts or straight shafts. Curved shafts are for light use on a residential property, and they are great for beginners. Straight shafts are for more strenuous commercial work and sometimes come with the option to buy a blade or other accessories. Straight shaft trimmers are also easier to get under bushes. Curved-shaft models are less expensive overall.

Debris guard/deflector

If you have lots of brush or rocks in your lawn, pay attention to the size of your debris guard on the back of the head. Some are larger than others. You’ll want to invest in a model with a larger deflector (or purchase a kit) if this is a concern for you. Some models also come with a flip-down edge guard in the front that ensures you don’t get too close to trees and other plants.

Operator controls

After you’ve started the engine, you may wonder, “How do I spin the line?” There are often two control buttons above the handle. Why are there two? One acts as a safety. For example, if you mistakenly press one while you are holding the machine, the line won’t run (and you’ll be less likely to cut something unintentionally). So, when you’re ready to start weed eating, press both control buttons to spin the line.

Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters

Gas-powered string trimmers are the “old guard” of the string trimmer world. They’ve been around much longer than battery or electric weed eaters and have a good track record of reliable performance. Here are some pros and cons of these machines.

✓ Delivers commercial-level, all-day performance✓ Sufficient power for large properties or many properties✓ Handles tall grass and overgrowth with ease✓ Preferred choice of pros✓ Can be repaired ✓ Consistent power throughout use✓ Easy to carry gasoline with you

✗ Gas engine requires maintenance✗ Exhaust emissions may have adverse effects on people and air quality✗ Noisy to operate✗ Engine can become gummed up with old fuel or fuel without proper stabilizer ✗ Pull starters can be difficult for some homeowners✗ Gas and oil can be messy to work with

Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters

Battery-powered weed eaters (AKA cordless weed eaters) are the (relatively) new kid on the weed whacking block, but they’ve made quite an impression on many homeowners. Many residential customers enjoy their quiet, emission-free operation and sufficient run time.

✓ Does a sufficient job for a small property or a single property✓ No engine to maintain✓ Batteries swap out easily if you run out of power✓ Very low noise✓ No gas or oil to replace✓ Easier to start — no pull cord✓ No fumes✓ Can use batteries from other machines from the same brand✓ No emissions

✗ Battery power dilemma — Need a recharging station if you want to weed eat all day (or have tons of batteries)

✗ Battery run time✗ Battery recharge time✗ Hard to find someone to repair✗ Power fades as battery life fades✗ Rechargeable batteries and charger may not come with the unit

WORX GT 3.0 Grass Trimmer | Out of The Box

Which is the best weed eater for me?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you make a decision:

What size property do you have? Smaller residential properties are ideal for battery-powered weed eaters. Larger properties not only have more space but are likely to have taller grass and brush, so gas-powered trimmers may be a better fit.

How do you plan to use the weed eater? Unless you’ve built your lawn care business around being an all-electric provider, you’ll need at least one gas weed eater in your arsenal. If the machine will only be for you as a homeowner, a battery-powered model has plenty of power.

What level of engine care are you willing to do? Gas-powered models require you to get your hands dirty. You’ll need a constant supply of gas and oil, and you’ll need to winterize it before you put it away for the off-season. If you’re not willing to do this, go with a battery-powered model.

What kind of attachments do you need? Before you make a purchase, look into which attachments (if any) your top pick offers. Common attachments include hedge trimmers, pole saws, edgers, and cultivators. Attachments save space and money and are a good investment for many customers.

Both gas string trimmers and cordless string trimmers come with a few models that are dual brush cutter/trimmers. This gives you many more options for ways to use your trimmer.

Physical considerations: As you’re shopping around, pay attention to the weight of the machine. If you don’t like to carry around heavy machinery for a long time, consider that as you shop. Gas-powered machines are generally a little heavier than battery-powered models.

See if it has other ergonomic features for ease of use or for jobs that will require more than a quick walk around the lawn. Sometimes straps and slings are helpful for those larger cleanup jobs. Straps and slings distribute the weight across your shoulders and give your arms and back a break.

Finally, consider the length of the shaft. Although some shafts have an adjustable-length feature, other machines only have one length, which could be problematic for some buyers. If you’re concerned about getting a machine that works well for your stature, go inside the store and hold several different machines to gauge weight, ergonomics, and length.

Extras: Not all battery-powered models include the battery and/or charger. In addition, you’ll probably want to buy a backup battery upfront so you can have an extra battery on days when you want to stay out in the lawn longer than one battery will allow.

Cutting width: If you prefer a wide cutting width (diameter), check this before you buy. If you’re used to a 17-inch cutting path, for example, you might be disappointed if you get home and find that yours only has a 13-inch reach.

Warranty: If this is important to you, check to see what warranty is offered. With battery-powered equipment, battery warranties may be separate. If you don’t see a separate warranty for the battery, check to see whether or not that is included.

FAQ about weed eaters

Which is the best weed eater for seniors?

For seniors or for anyone who isn’t as strong as Joe Lumberjack, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

—Weight: Look at the tool weight. Also, consider that a battery or tank of gas will add to that. —Pull start vs. battery start: With a gas model, the pull start may be an issue for some seniors. You have to put the weed eater on the ground and quickly pull up on the string. A spring-assist pull start may make starting the machine easier if you prefer a gas weeder. However, if you’re considering a battery-powered model, push a button, squeeze the trigger, and you’re good to go. —Ergonomics: You may want to invest in a special handle or shoulder strap. Even though this tool may only see residential use, these components may make even a small job that much easier. —Cost: If you don’t have a lot of extra money to spend, curved-shaft models are usually less expensive. Also, look for refurbished models or seasonal sales. Generally, stores offer both great and great selection s on lawn equipment on the three summer holidays (Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day). Fall sales starting in September offer great deals (end-of-season), but selection may be more limited.

Which is the best brand of weed eater?

What brand of lawn equipment have you enjoyed using in the past? Or, what brand does your neighbor recommend? Personal experience and the recommendations of friends go a long way.

You may even ask the lawn workers in your neighborhood to see what type of equipment they use. If someone works with a tool day in and day out, they probably have a favorite brand to recommend.

Pro Tip: If neighbors or lawn crews are in short supply, call your local small engine shop. They’ve got the inside scoop on which brands they never see, and which ones come in all the time for repairs.

Which is the best residential weed eater?

Heavy-duty vs. light-duty use: If you have a small, postage-stamp-sized lawn, don’t go all out. A simple, lightweight machine will do fine. If, on the other hand, you have a standard yard, a large yard, or a backyard that looks like a jungle if you let it go, you may want to opt for a more powerful model.

Quality: High-quality machines usually cost more. If you don’t have experience with a particular brand or model, read helpful online “Best Weed Eater” guides, talk to neighbors, and read reviews.

Cost: This is a defining factor for many homeowners. Lighter use means a lower cost and vice versa. Shop sales, and do your research for a model that will do what you need at a price you can afford.

If weed-eating is not your favorite way to relax after a long week, let our local lawn care pros take the guesswork out of “Who’s going to mow my lawn?” Our reliable crews give your lawn a professional cut and edge every time.

Main Photo Credit: StrangeApparition2011 | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 4.0

We Tried Amazon’s Best-Selling Cordless String Trimmer

Family Handyman

If you need a lightweight cordless string trimmer that’s easy to use, this 12-inch model from Worx is perfect for the average yard.

Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.

In case you’re not up with the popular memes on social media, there’s a common one about middle class dads who love lawn care constantly batting around Instagram and other outlets. It’s not one I identify with. I’m not a fan of lawn care. In fact, one great selling point for me about living in the desert after years in the Midwest is that I don’t have to mow a lawn anymore. But I do have to run a trimmer regularly to keep things tidy so as not to incur the wrath of the neighborhood association.

I don’t have much space to take care of, so when it was time to replace my unwieldy corded trimmer, I wanted a cordless yard tool that was also easy to run and maintain. I decided to give the Worx 12-inch string timmer a try. After all, it’s Amazon’s best-selling string trimmer with a 4.5-star rating after more than 21,000 reviews.

What Is the Worx String Trimmer?

Well, like it says, it’s a string trimmer. But it’s actually more than that, too. It converts to an in-line lawn edger with a turn of the head, which makes it easy to quickly take care of grass and weeds growing over your concrete sidewalk or other areas were you might want a crisp line.

The head tilts a full 90 degrees, and the telescoping body can be adjusted with a quick-release lever. That makes it ergonomic to use, and also lets you make necessary adjustments to run it on a hill or squeeze into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. And it weighs less than six pounds.

It comes with two batteries and a charger, which is a nice bonus for a piece of equipment that’s very reasonably priced at just over 100.

How We Tested It

I used it to trim the property around my house over the course of six weeks, so about four times thanks to some surprising summer rains that came a little early.

Right out of the box, set up is easy. It took me less than five minutes to snap the few parts together. After that, I put one of the batteries onto the charger and let it get a full charge before using it.

Performance Review

Family Handyman

I started with a long stretch of green space between the sidewalk and the street. It’s not a landscaped section, by any means, just a random collection of Bermuda grass and desert weeds. This was the first cut of the season too, probably a week or so past due for a trim, so everything was getting a little bushy. You don’t have to have the power of a gas trimmer to take care of that space, but some of those weeds are tough enough to chew through string and get a cheap trimmer twisted up. The Worx trimmer had no problems with them. I didn’t even have to let out more string while I was cutting them.

Next, I moved over to a part of my yard where grass grows up between the large landscaping rocks. There’s not a lot of stuff to cut there, but it can be tricky for a trimmer with the stones. Again, no problems with the Worx trimmer. It got in as close as I needed it to against the rocks and wacked the weeds, without leaving me a tiny nub of string once I finished. Along the sidewalk, the in-line edger was helpful for making a nice even cut.

I’ve used it four times, at about 20 minutes per session, since getting the trimmer, and the battery is still holding its initial charge. That’s an added convenience I appreciate about the Worx trimmer.

The caveat to this is that I don’t have a lot of yard to take care of, so I can’t speak to how well this product would do for large yards or those with a particularly stubborn weed patch that’s gotten out of control.

What Others Are Saying

“Awesome little weed eater! I bought this after struggling over and over to start and restart our gas-powered weed eater,” said Aggie, a verified Amazon purchaser. “This one is so lightweight and literally starts with the push of a button!”

Kimber, another verified purchaser, had this to say: “So how does it perform? I love it. A friend stopped by the other day and complimented me on how nice the yard looked. The trimmer is lightweight, and I have a health issue that causes chronic pain at forty-something. The weight, or lack thereof, is a huge relief compared to the gas trimmer collecting dust and spider webs in the garage. I realize the batteries will lose some steam, but right now I have enough to take care of my yard. It is so easy to feed line to that a child could do it.”!

Final Verdict

This is a solid cordless trimmer that gets the job done for most yards. It might not be as powerful as traditional gas-powered string trimmer, but it’s easier to use and doesn’t require the same kind of upkeep. Its feather weight makes and adjustability make it accessible to more users too.

Where to Buy

via merchant

The Worx 12-inch cordless string trimmer is available from Amazon.

Worx Cordless Weed Trimmer WG154 Review: Does This Uphold the WORX Brand Name?

If you have a smaller yard and want a lightweight, cordless trimmer the WORX Cordless Weed Trimmer is perfect.

I hope you love the products that I recommend here! Just so you know, I work with Amazon and other affiliate partners and may be compensated from the links below.

About the WORX Cordless Weed Trimmer

The WORX Cordless Weed Trimmer uses a MaxLithium 20v battery that has a charging time of five hours and 30 minutes of run time.

It has an adjustable cutting width – either 12 inches or 10 inches. Using the 10 inch setting does also prolong the run time.

It features a automatic single line feed, using a 0.065 inch feed, and has a foldable space guard, which you can snap up and protects your flowers when you are weed trimming.

It can be changed from a trimmer to an edger at the flick of a switch and weighs in at 4.2lbs. It comes with a three-year guarantee and 30-day money-back guarantee.

The Good

A lot of thought has been put into the design of the WORX WG154. Ergonomically it is really nice to use. The handle can be easily adjust to make it more comfortable and it just feels natural to use, almost like it is an extension of your arm!

Features like the flower guard, which can be snapped up and down to protect plants, the function to change from trimmer to edger and to adjust the cutting width are all incredibly easy and intuitive to use.

The first thing you will notice about this is how light it is! It weighs 4.2lbs and it is about half as heavy as your normal trimmers.

It is so light means it is very easy to handle and perfect if you are older or maybe have less physical strength. Even using it for a prolonged period will leave you with little to no fatigue.

Above: The WORX WG154 is really comfortable to use and ergonomically designed

This has a good double helix trimmer cord, which whilst it isn’t as thick as some, it is durable and there is less need to change it and it produces a nice cut of the grass.

The automatic line feed on the whole works really well (although there are a couple of minor issues outlined below) – and WORX actual prove free spools for life if you give proof you own a WORX product. All you have to do is pay for shipping and handling.

This is surprisingly powerful considering the fact it is so light. It isn’t a replacement for a gas weed eater, but if you don’t want fumes/grease and issues getting it started this is a great choice.

Thanks to the line feed and the fact it is easy to handle you will have no problem getting through most weeds in your yard with this.

Above: The auto-feed head works really well

It has an adjustable cutting option. Just loosen a screw, turn the line cutter and re-tighten the screw and you can change the cutting width from 10 inches to 12 inches or vice versa.

Having it at the 10 inch setting makes it easier to get into those tricky spots and leaves you overall with a better cut and a nicer looking lawn. Bear in mind that the cutting with the 12 inch width uses more power than the 10 inch width.

This switches between a trimmer and an edger really easily, it just takes the flip of a switch and the edger works really well, you get a nice clean edge and it is simple to keep a nice straight line.

And it comes at a really reasonable price!

The Not So Good

All in all this works really well but my main issue is around the battery.

First of all the run time isn’t that long – around 30 minutes, this wouldn’t be so much of a problem were it not for the fact that it takes a long time to recharge – around five hours.

So this means you either have to trim your lawn in parts, waiting for the battery to recharge, or you have to go to the expense of buying a second battery, so you can use one whilst the other charges.

The battery is very poor when compared to something like the EGO Power String Trimmer.

Unlike some of its competitors it doesn’t have a telescopic shaft. The shaft length won’t be suitable for all and particularly if you are tall you will find yourself stooping over it a lot and getting backache or sore knees from bending down.

The Auto Feed function works well, but one small fault is that every time you stop and start the trimmer it auto feeds the trim line, cutting off string even it might already be the proper length.

The spools you get are quite small and pre wound, so they don’t necessarily last that long and this compounds that.

The spool cap is also very poor quality and cracks and break very easily – not a massive problem but irritating nonetheless.

Above: The WORX WG154 does not have a telescopic shaft.

At A Glance

Pros

• Well designed
• Lightweight
• Line feed works really well
• Good trimmer cord
• Powerful
• Adjustable cutting option
• Easy to switch functionality
• Good edger
• Great price

✘ Cons

• Poor battery life
• Battery takes a while to charge
• No telescopic shaft
• Auto feed releases too much line
• Poor spool cap