STIHL RMA 370 review. STIHL lawn mower electric

The STIHL RMA 370 battery-powered lawn mower uses the company’s KombiSystem, which means you can use the rechargeable battery in several different STIHL tools in your garage.

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

The STIHL RMA 370 is an excellent choice if you need a lightweight mower and don’t mind the narrower cutting path.

Cons

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The STIHL RMA 370 is a battery-powered electric lawn mower. As it’s battery-powered, there’s no need to buy gasoline, and starting up the mower is easy too.

What you will need to be aware of, however, is that the battery and charger are sold separately. If you have other STIHL battered-powered tools, the battery is compatible across the whole range.

To read about all the models we reviewed and to see which one we gave the top spot to, head to our guide on the best electric lawn mowers.

STIHL RMA 370: Features

The STIHL RMA 370 uses a rechargeable battery that offers 20 minutes of power after a single charge. The battery is 36 volts and charges in just 30 minutes – the shortest recharge time in our review. This is good for 1/4 acre of grass but not much more so it really isn’t suitable for those who have large lawns or professional gardeners.

This small electric lawn mower weighs only 27 pounds, which is extremely light. Many gas-powered lawn mowers weigh three times as much. The downside of its small design is you have to put in extra time and effort to cut your lawn. The RMA 370’s cutting path is just 14 inches wide, which is much narrower than other cordless electric lawn mowers we tested. A few inches may not seem like much, but it could mean a lot of extra work if you have a large yard. The bag is also small, so you should be prepared to empty it often.

However, the STIHL RMA 370 is very easy to push because of its light weight, although, the handle is uncomfortable. The best electric mowers come with a cushioned grip, and this one doesn’t. The mower also isn’t self-propelling, though it’s hardly needed for such a light machine.

STIHL RMA 370: Design

The STIHL RMA 370 mower is missing a few features that would improve its design. There isn’t a side discharge, so the mower carries the extra weight of the grass until the bag is emptied. In addition, the bag is made of hard plastic. This gives the mower an attractive modern look, but it makes emptying clippings difficult. You can simply push and prod heavy cloth bags to empty them, but this hard plastic bin requires some digging on your part.

You’ll get some good use out of this electric lawn mower, but if you want a truly powerful, useful machine, consider our top pick – the EGO Power 21-inch LM2102.

Buying Guides

STIHL RMA 460 Battery Powered Push Mower Review

STIHL has their fair share of fanboys in the OPE world, and for good reason. Their products tend to have a well-engineered and lightweight build, and they perform really well. While you’ll read the results further down the article, we’re optimistic about the STIHL RMA 460 Battery Powered Push Mower. STIHL developed this residential-model mower to work on the brand’s Lightning Battery System, making it the first mowing option on this particular battery platform.

What STIHL Has To Say About It

“This mower is ideal for homeowners with small- to medium-sized residential yards. Users don’t have to worry about gas or fuel mixing. Pair that with zero exhaust emissions and the RMA 460 provides a more environmentally friendly lawn care solution compared to traditional gasoline-powered mowers.”

Brian Manke, product manager at STIHL Inc.

STIHL RMA 460 Key Features

The STIHL RMA 460 has a brushless motor and works with the STIHL AK 20 and AK 30 batteries. It has a 19″ cutting deck, which breaks down to an actual 18.1″ cutting swath. STIHL claims it can run for 29 minutes on their AK 20 battery. That breaks down to about 2,475 square feet. On the Ak 30 battery, claims are the STIHL RMA 460 can tackle 44 minutes of runtime per charge, which works out to about 3,440 square feet. Our actual testing runtimes differ greatly, but not all negatively (see below).

Additionally, when the RMA 460 senses resistance, it automatically adjusts to peak power. When mowing through lighter grass, the mower automatically reduces power consumption for better battery life.

STIHL bills the RMA 460 as a maneuverable and efficient mower geared toward the homeowner. It features 10″ rear wheels and 8″ front wheels for easy movement over rough terrain. Users can adjust the cutting height to one of seven positions, ranging from 1-3/8″ to 3.3/4″. The STIHL RMA 460 comes with a 15.85-gallon grass catching bag, and the mower can bag, mulch, or discharge from the side.

Using the STIHL Push Mower

Our testing grounds is a 3-acre field full of Florida Bahia grass. Bahia is known for its outstanding drought and heat tolerance, so it grows in the Florida heat. Between the sandy environment and the tough grass blades, the Bahia provides an excellent environment for our testing.

To help ensure our testing is on level ground, we first cut the Bahia grass field with our Exmark Radius X-Series zero-turn. Our zero-turn cut the grass at 5-inches, with the intention to set the STIHL RMA 460 to a 3-inch deck-height.

Battery and Runtime

For our testing, we’re using the STIHL AK30 which is a 4.8Ah battery with 187Wh output. The AK series batteries include an easy to read 4-bar charge status. STIHL claims a 44-minute runtime in their testing with this battery. During our tests, the AK30 battery in the STIHL RMA 460 lasted a total of 16-minutes and 17-seconds (16:17).

We did have the mulching plug installed, so the mower was recycling all the clippings. We’re pretty confident runtime could be extended using the side-discharge, but most homeowners are going to use the mulching option.

Mowing for the 16m17s accomplished a little less 1/10th of an acre, 3,800 sq-ft to be exact. This is 360 sq-ft more than STIHL’s numbers. Wait! Our runtime is much less than STIHL’s claims; however, our area mowed is much more, in the shorter time. I guess we’re faster walkers!

Eco Mode

Running the STIHL cordless mower in ECO mode extends runtime and conserves energy. Under the hood is a simple rocker switch turn ECO mode “On” or “Off”. When turned “On” it can sense a heavy or light load, so the brushless motor receives more or less power, as needed. In the light grass, it throttles down, conserving the battery.In the testing we did, we really didn’t notice it throttling down, but our grass was consistent, thick, and high.

Two Battery Slots – Double Runtime?

Lifting the small acrylic hood on the STIHL RMA 460 push mower provides access to the battery compartments. We were initially excited to see two battery slots. Wow, this is great, if the user chooses, they could buy two batteries and double runtime. Not so fast. Yes, there are two slots, but one is just a phony. It’s only a placeholder for an additional battery. If the first battery dies, the user has to actually swap the two batteries to keep going.

We would love see two live battery slots with some sort of automatic switchover.

Pushing and Handling

Pushing the STIHL RMA 460 is very easy, so it maneuvers very well around any obstacles you may encounter. The large 10-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels have a lot to do with this. Setting the deck height is done with a single lever, and it’s easy to adjust. Folding the handle down for storage can be achieved by pulling the two spring-loaded pins.

We did notice a small issue between the deck-height-adjustment handle and the folding handle pins. If the deck height is in one of the middle positions, the pins collide with the deck-height-adjustment handle. Additionally, with the handle in the #2 slot, it presses against the wire-harness. Not only will this wear the wiring, but it also keeps the handle from fully engaging in that #2 slot.

Final Thoughts

We started out this article by saying that our expectations were optimistic. In the end, this still rings true. The STIHL RMA 460 push mower is an impressive little battery-powered push mower. It’s very easy to maneuver, and the power is sufficient for typical yard growth. The STIHL suffers in the same area as most of the battery-powered mowers, in the runtime department. A full AK30 battery will only cut about 1/10 of an acre, 1/8 acre if you really stretch it.

This runtime concern is getting some negative press, and quite frankly, it’s just an easy target. HOWEVER, the more we think and talk about this issue, the less of an issue it is. STIHL is not touting this RMA 460 as a commercial mower. They’re not even saying it is meant to cut 1/2-acre. This is meant for the homeowner, and in the right homeowner’s hands, this is a great mower. This is perfect for someone living in a downtown area, with a small yard and probably without a shed or garage. The STIHL allows them to store the mower standing on its back, with no concerns of fluids leaking out.

If you’re a commercial lawn care guy wanting to purchase the latest STIHL product for professional use…this is not that tool. Are you a hipster or millennial living in Austin, San Fran, or Hyde Park (Tampa) with a small yard? You, my friend, should go visit your local STIHL dealership because the RMA 460 is in your wheelhouse. Not only is runtime not a problem for you, but you can also discuss with your friends how you’re saving the world with greener energy.

STIHL RMA 460 Specs

• w/ AK 20 Battery and Charger: 429.95
• w/ AK 30 Battery and Charger: 449.95

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STIHL RME 443 Electric Lawn Mower

Want it by Tuesday 13th June? Order within 1 day, 52 minutes and choose Parcelforce Express 12.00AM at checkout.

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The STIHL RME 443 electric lawn mower is great for your lawn as well as for the environment thanks to its low-noise, exhaust free powerful motor. With its easy-running wheels, this compact lawn mower is easy to manoeuvre and provides perfect line holding during mowing. An integrated cable strain relief ensures secure fastening of the cable to your machine. The central cutting height adjustment can be adjusted to the desired lawn height in six settings. The fold-open 55-litre plastic grass catcher box makes garden work easier for you. The catcher box features a convenient grass level indicator and can be very easily opened and emptied.

Thanks to its special downward-facing vents, the air is guided sideways towards the ground to prevent dirt from being thrown up. For greater comfort, the handlebar can be simply and quickly released and folded down using the QuickFix clamps. This allows you to store the machine in a space-saving manner. The RME 443 is also easy to transport thanks to the integrated carrying handles. And, if you want to provide moisture and vital nutrients to your lawn, you can simply convert this electric lawn mower into a Multi-mower using the appropriate mulching kit available as an accessory. The RME 443 comes with a 5 year extended domestic warranty (subject to registration and annual servicing).

Technical data

Lawn Area (up to. m²)

Cutting Width

Engine

Cutting Height

Drive

4 Wheel or Rear Roller

Displacement

Nominal Output

Weight

Central Cutting Height Adjustment

Mulch Function

Catcher Box

600

41cm cm

–

25-75 (6 Setting, central) mm

–

4 Wheel

–

1500kW

20kg

Yes

Retrofittable

55 Litre

UK Delivery

Orders Over £75 Excluding VAT

Free UK Delivery on Orders Over £75 VAT

Standard DPD / Royal Mail 2-3 Day Service FREE

Orders UP TO £75 Excluding VAT

Standard UK Delivery Royal Mail Tracked 48 from. £3.00VAT

Standard DPD 2-3 Day Service. £7.99 VAT

DPD Next Day Service. £8.99 VAT

DPD Next Working Day Delivery Before 12. £13.00 VAT

Saturday Delivery. £13.00 VAT

Saturday Delivery Before 12. £16.00VAT

Delivery costs are calculated by weight at the checkout, the quoted are examples based on average order size.

In store and Local Delivery Costs

Free in store Collection. Monday to Friday 8am. 5pm

Gustharts Local Delivery

We offer a local delivery service to a 30-mile radius from our showroom. Costs are dependent on distance from the showroom and are calculated on the checkout screen. The item will be fully assembled, the ideal amount of the correct oil and fuel added and function test the machine all free of charge. Our PDI means we are confident that your machine will work flawlessly when we deliver it to you.

Once the order has been completed we will contact you to arrange the delivery day and time, we look to deliver all items within two weeks if in stock.

Orders are processed Monday to Friday.

Bank Holidays, Saturday’s and Sunday’s are NOT classed as working days.

For example orders which are placed with the “Next Working Day Delivery” option before 2:30pm on a Friday will be despatched Friday and delivered Monday. If ordered Friday after 2.30pm or over the weekend the order will be despatched Monday for delivery Tuesday.

Some areas may be subject to a delayed service which could take longer to deliver.

Most items are delivered Monday to Saturday, 7.30am-6pm (although some of our carriers may deliver slightly earlier or later)

Delivery costs are calculated by weight at the checkout, the quoted are examples based on average order size.

EU Delivery

Please Note: Shipments sent to the European Union are sold exclusive of VAT and may be subject to local import duties and taxes payable by the purchaser. Due to customs processing outside our control, the below timescales are indicative based on shipment history. EU delivery can take up to 28 days to arrive.

All applicable customs and import duties and any other charges are the responsibility of the customer. We use a range of different courier services provided by DPD, UPS and Royal Mail. Our internal systems determine which service to use when shipping your order. Postage cost is calculated at the checkout, based on weight and size of your order. In order to deliver the best possible service, we may send your order with a different service to the one you select.

Please see table below for estimated delivery times shown in working days:

Country	Standard / Tracked Delivery
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Gibraltar
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Montenegro
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland

Rest of World Delivery

Please Note: Shipments sent outside of the UK are sold exclusive of VAT and may be subject to local import duties and taxes payable by the purchaser. Due to customs processing outside of our control, the below timescales are indicative based on shipment history. International delivery can take up to 28 days to arrive.

All applicable customs and import duties and any other charges are the responsibility of the customer. We use a range of different courier services provided by DPD and Royal Mail. Our internal systems determine which service to use when shipping your order. Postage cost is calculated at the checkout, based on weight and size of your order. In order to deliver the best possible service we may send your order with a different service to the one you select.

Please see table below for estimated delivery times shown in working days:

Country	Standard / Tracked Delivery
Albania
Andorra
Angola
Argentina
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Belarus
Bosnia Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Canada
Cayman Islands
Chile
China
Egypt
Hong Kong SAR China
India
Indonesia
Iran
Israel
Jamaica
Japan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Macedonia
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
Morocco
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Norway
Peru
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Korea
Sri Lanka
Thailand
Trinidad Tobago
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States
Uruguay
Vietnam
Yemen

Returns

Royal Mail Price £3.50 No upfront charge. will be deducted from your refund amount.

Please note. This service can only be used for items being returned for a REFUND Only, please re-order the correct size.

Create your return label, then either drop the parcel off at the nearest service point or arrange a collection from home. Once the return label has been generated you can either print the label, have the label brought with the postman on collection or scan a QR code to print the label when you drop off at the post office or Royal Mail customer service point.

Please Note Royal Mail only covers parcels up to a value of £100, in the event your return is lost we would only be able to refund you a maximum of £100, we recommend taking this into account when deciding whether to return with this service.

By creating a label and returning with Royal Mail on our account you agree to have the cost of the label deducted from any refund amount, this will be applied irrespective of the reason for return.

Returns Procedure

Returning or exchanging items

If in the unlikely event that you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we are happy for you to return for refund or exchange items you are not satisfied with.

This is subject to the return and receipt of your goods being in its original condition and packaging within 30 days of order date.

Please print off and complete the returns form, filling in the relevant fields explaining what you want to exchange or return and why?

Please send this form back with the goods to return or exchange. We recommend you use a postal service that offers a tracked service, as it’s your responsibility to get the parcel back to us.

Returning damaged or incorrect items

If in the unfortunate case, you have received an item that you have not ordered or that has arrived to you in a less than satisfactory condition.

Please print off and complete the returns form above.

If you can return the goods to us, we will exchange and refund your postage.

In the instance that this is a heavy or awkward parcel to return, it may prove beneficial for us to collect the item instead.

For any further assistance, please contact email enquiries@gustharts.com or telephone 01670 789701 to communicate with us further regarding any issues.

We are keen to maintain a high level of customer service and are on hand to assist you in any way we can.

Returns Address

Gustharts Ltd Returns, Unit 31, Milkhope Centre, Blagdon, Newcastle upon Tyne ,NE13 6DA

Refunds and Exchanges for all items, including faulty goods, can only be given within 30 days of receipt.

We will issue a FULL REFUND (Excluding delivery charge) on receipt, we will exchange the item for a different size / colour if preferred.

The items being returned are your responsibility until we receive them back.

As a recommendation and for your own protection, we recommend that you send the parcel using a delivery service that carries insurance or tracking.

If goods are returned to Gusthart’s due to being unable to be delivered, incorrect address or order refusal, but you wish for us to despatch the goods again, a further delivery charge will be incurred. In the event of additional charges, a member of the Gusthart’s team will contact you to arrange payment.

The cost of returning is your responsibility and is therefore non-refundable, unless deemed necessary.

gardening tool manufacturers are opting for battery power over fuel or electric, and today’s string trimmers are a case in point. We tested these eco-friendly yard maintenance devices to help consumers make the right purchase for their property.

By Glenda Taylor and Mark Wolfe | Updated May 3, 2023 10:37 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Handy outdoor power tools make quick work of tackling overgrown weeds and grass, giving the yard a tidy look and trimming hedges and shrubs. We put battery-powered trimmers through their paces on several grass or weed types to see how well they ran and cut, ultimately arriving at this list of the best battery trimmers.

For ensuring a polished look to a lawn, the best string trimmer is a great investment. These yard-care tools spin a cutting head loaded with nylon string (instead of a fixed blade) to cleanly trim the grass at the edge of a lawn or mow down weedy areas. Though gas and electric models once dominated, new and improved battery-powered versions don’t require mixing fuel or storing gasoline like gas string trimmers do, nor are they limited by the length of an extension cord, like corded electric string trimmers are.

Some battery trimmers are better suited to different-size yards, users, and budgets. So we could help consumers make the right choice, we tested some of the most popular string trimmers to find out how they perform under real-world conditions. To qualify as a top pick, a string trimmer should be durable, powerful, and easy to operate. The string line should exit the reel easily with no need for the user to constantly remove the reel cover and untangle the line.

The following battery-powered string trimmers are at the top of their class. Anyone looking to invest in a trimmer is likely to find one here to fit their landscaping needs.

• BEST OVERALL:STIHL FSA 60 R 36V Battery Trimmer
• RUNNER-UP:Ego ST1511T Power 15-Inch Powerload String Trimmer
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:BlackDecker LST300 LBXR2020-OPE 20V String Trimmer
• UPGRADE PICK:Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit
• BEST HEAVY-DUTY:DeWALT DCST972X1 60V MAX 17-Inch String Trimmer Kit
• BEST LIGHTWEIGHT:BlackDecker LSTE525 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger
• BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE 56V 16-Inch Battery Trimmer
• BEST FOR SMALL YARDS:Worx WG163 20V Power Share GT 3.0 String Trimmer
• BEST DUAL DIRECTION:Husqvarna 320iL 40V Battery String Trimmer
• BEST TRIMMER/EDGER COMBO:Worx WG170 20V Power Share Revolution String Trimmer
• MOST VERSATILE:Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

How We Tested the Best Battery Trimmers

To truly test these battery-powered string trimmers, we started by assembling the tools and charging the batteries. Most trimmers arrived with the batteries about 25 percent charged right out of the box, but a full charge allowed us to gauge runtime at full power. Although some of the trimmers offer lower power settings that could extend runtime, we found that the lower settings simply made them less capable when it came to coarse weeds, so we ran them at full power for testing.

We put each trimmer through its paces in a variety of real-world scenarios: “clean” lawn grass, weedy grass, and natural areas featuring coarse, weedy seedlings and vines. To earn a spot in our lineup, the lightweight 20-volt (V) trimmers had to deliver a clean, crisp cut in both clean and weedy grass sections. In addition to trimming the grass zones, we used the 36V, 56V, and 80V models to cut through woody, viny growth in natural areas. Along with cutting power, we tested for battery runtime, maneuverability, and operator comfort and determined the best battery trimmer by category.

Our Top Picks

These reviews describe the key features of each cordless string trimmer and how the models performed in our backyard tests.

STIHL FSA 60 R 36V Battery Trimmer

It makes sense that the STIHL FSA 60 R would be a top performer in this test group. It comes from a brand with a long history of industry-leading outdoor power equipment. This string trimmer measures just over 66 inches long, weighs less than 10 pounds with the battery installed, and works for about 25 minutes per charge. The 36V 3.9 amp hours (Ah) battery charges in a little more than 2 hours.

The tough polymer material used for the motor housing and debris shield help keep the weight down. A few other standout features include a variable-speed throttle trigger, trigger interlock, battery retainer latch, EasySpool cutting head, bump guard, and hang loop. The trigger interlock and battery retainer latch prevent accidental startup. The variable trigger and EasySpool head improve operating efficiency by saving battery life and minimizing the time it takes to reload, respectively. The bump guard protects sensitive surfaces during close trimming, and the hang loop offers a convenient way to store the tool when not in use.

This is a great all-around pick for quarter- to a half-acre yards. The relatively short runtime of the STIHL FSA 60 R belies a very capable trimmer. In our tests it easily and cleanly sliced through all kinds of grass and weeds, including tough tree saplings up to about ¼ inch thick. The shorter runtime actually mattered less because the trimmer cut so well, and we moved at a faster pace than with some of the other trimmers with longer runtimes.

The other thing we noted here was the amazing level of operating comfort. The trimmer was fairly lightweight to begin with, but the weight was so well balanced—with just enough weight forward of the front handle to keep the head near ground level—that using it required significantly less effort than what was required of some of the other trimmers that weighed about the same. Also, vibration was minimal, so after trimming we had plenty of energy to keep working.

Product Specs

• Weighs less than 10 pounds but easily powers through tough weeds
• 25-minute runtime per charge for about 5,000 linear feet of trimming
• Excellent balance to keep the head at ground level
• EasySpool head, bump guard, variable-speed throttle, and accidental start protection
• Smallish 13.8-inch cutting swath is on the small side for open spaces
• 2-hour recharge time for battery is longer than that of some competitors

Get the STIHL battery trimmer at Ace Hardware or Blain’s Farm Fleet.

Ego ST1511T Power 15-Inch Powerload String Trimmer

Ego Power has made a name for itself in the outdoor power-equipment category by building an affordable battery-powered tool line that competes favorably against old-fashioned 2-cycle gas-powered equipment. The ST1511T 15-inch string trimmer proved to be powerful, clean, and quiet in testing. The 56V 2.5Ah lithium-ion battery delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime, with a recharging time of just 50 minutes. The bump-feed trimmer head comes preloaded with 0.095-inch trimmer line for more cutting force and less noise. Taller users will appreciate the straight shaft design, and the unit weighs in at just over 10 pounds.

In our tests, the Ego trimmer showed ample power to cut through everything in its path, including overgrown, weedy grass; privet seedlings; and honeysuckle vines. Its well-balanced design, with the heavy battery in back offset by the long, straight shaft, made it comfortable to work with and more agile than others we tested. Our only caveat: For seasonal yard cleanup or maintaining larger landscapes, the 45-minute maximum runtime may not be quite enough.

Product Specs

• Auto-loading trimmer head reduces downtime while working
• Adjustable telescoping straight shaft provides a custom fit for different users
• Excellent power and runtime value at a moderate price point
• Heavier than some with less forward weight to keep head down
• Battery is bulkier than others, making the tool tiring to use over an extended period

Get the Ego Power battery trimmer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Lowe’s.

BlackDecker LST300 LBXR2020-OPE 20V String Trimmer

To give the yard a polished look without breaking the bank, consider the BlackDecker cordless string trimmer. It features a 12-inch cutting swath to cut down the corners and clean up the edges of small- to medium-size yards. An automatic feed spool means no more stopping to bump the tool when new string is needed. Two 20V lithium-ion batteries are included.

In our tests, this trimmer performed very well in weed-free grass and in weedy lawn areas. With a light weight of just 5.7 pounds, this trimmer is easy to handle without causing arm and shoulder fatigue. The short, straight shaft design is most comfortable for users under 5 feet 9 inches tall. We also liked that with a quick adjustment to the head, the trimmer becomes an edger to neaten up the grass along sidewalks and driveways. In all, we found this affordable tool a solid pick for small obstacle-free landscapes.

Product Specs

• Pack includes 2 batteries for more runtime, less downtime
• Automatic feed spool
• Money- and space-saving design that both trims and edges
• Battery recharges in just 45 minutes
• Best for grass only; struggles with coarse, woody weeds
• Wide debris guard doesn’t fit well into tight spaces

Get the BlackDecker battery string trimmer at Amazon (with extra battery) or The Home Depot.

Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit

The Makita XRU15PT1 string trimmer is a premium option to keep the lawn and garden under control. It can handle large yards with enough power to tackle dense weed growth. This cordless string trimmer comes with four 18V 5.0Ah batteries so you’ll never run out of power. Shoppers can purchase this model as a kit that includes a dual battery charger and two sets of batteries, or as a “tool only” for those who already have items from the Makita 18V tool platform.

With a long, straight shaft and high-power cutting head, this 10.4-pound trimmer feels like a pro-quality tool. It was well balanced and articulate while trimming around shrubs and between obstacles. It had plenty of power to cut through tough vegetation. In our tests, it made nice clean cuts and crisp edges in the grassy areas and tore through weedy privet seedlings and honeysuckle vines without hesitation. It’s an excellent candidate to replace gas equipment for medium to large landscapes, though the price may be high for budget-minded shoppers.

Product Specs

• Runtime is longer than charge time for ready-to-go fresh batteries
• Includes a second set of batteries for extended work
• Gas-like power and performance for tough trimming jobs
• Expensive trimmer due to the high cost of batteries
• Small debris guard allows some material close to operator
• Stiff bump head required a hard strike to let out line

Get the Makita battery trimmer at Amazon or Mowers Direct.

DeWALT DCST972X1 60V MAX 17-Inch String Trimmer Kit

When an established leader in pro-grade cordless hand tools enters the lawn-care category, shoppers will want to take note. The DeWALT 60V battery trimmer packs a heavy-duty brushless motor powered by a 60V 3Ah FlexVolt lithium battery that lets it tear through all kinds of tough weeds for at least 40 minutes per charge.

This attachment-capable trimmer comes equipped with a straight shaft and Rapid- loading adjustable spool. It uses.080-inch trimmer line to cut either a 15-inch or 17-inch swath. A safety switch in the grip prevents accidental starts. Users can select high or low power, depending on the project, and control the trimming RPM with a variable-speed trigger. The universal attachment feature lets owners replace the trimmer attachment with a variety of other tool heads, including an edger, hedge trimmer, pole saw, and more.

The DeWALT battery trimmer was one of the heaviest we tested, but also the most powerful. With the standard.080-inch trimmer line that came pre-spooled, this tool had no trouble cutting anything from grass to thin tree seedlings and even tough blackberry canes. In low-power mode it offered more cutting force than the high- power setting of most others we tested. In high range it beat all but the STIHL, which was about an even match in terms of pure power. To be honest, high power was too much for many of our applications, so we also tested thoroughly in low range. It ran about 40 minutes on high, and about 60 on low.

Other than the heavy weight, the only negative point we have to offer is the noise. The trimmer is loud to begin with, and when initially triggering or feathering the trigger it makes an even louder whine/whistle sound. Still, it’s a very impressive tool at a fair price for the power and runtime and a good choice for large properties or cleaning up overgrown areas.

Product Specs

• Battery type: 60V 3Ah FlexVolt lithium ion
• Runtime: 40 minutes
• Weight: 12.95 pounds
• Outstanding power for clearing overgrown weeds and brush
• Works with.080-inch or.095-inch trimmer line for normal or heavy trimming
• Excellent runtime of up to an hour for average grass trimming
• Power head can run other landscaping tool attachments
• Heavy weight of just under 13 pounds, but no shoulder strap
• Longer battery charge time at 135 minutes
• Noisy operation, especially when initially triggering

Get the DeWALT battery trimmer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

BlackDecker LSTE525 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger

Weighing just 8.8 pounds, this string trimmer is easy to carry, maneuver, and control with an adjustable handle and a safety trigger switch to prevent accidental starts. The 12-inch trimming radius is suitable for keeping the lawn properly maintained without damaging fencing, decks, trees, or other common yard obstacles.

This cordless string trimmer operates with a 20V battery that can last for up to 20 minutes, and a spare battery is included. For edging, simply turn the head and use the built-in wheel to balance as the trimmer string handles the task.

When we used the tool to trim weedy lawn grass patches and edge the curb and driveway, it made nice clean cuts and tracked well to make good straight edges. The shaft and handle adjusted to comfortably fit our 6-foot user. The tool is amazingly lightweight for the amount of power it offers, but the weight is mostly balanced to the front of the handle, and having to manually counterbalance it while working fatigued our tester. Though not built for heavily weed-infested yards, it has ample power and runtime to clean up curb lines, driveway edges, and otherwise maintain a smaller landscape.

Product Specs

• Very lightweight and easy to carry
• Handle is customizable to fit the size of user
• Trimmer doubles as an edger with a simple turn of the head
• Battery provides limited runtime, although a spare is included
• Not enough power to tackle coarse, woody weeds
• Weighted toward the front, which may cause user fatigue

Get the BlackDecker MAX battery trimmer/edger at The Home Depot or Tractor Supply Co.

Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE 56V 16-Inch Battery Trimmer

A wide cutting swath, extended runtime, and powerful trimming ability make the Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE battery trimmer an excellent choice for large yards. The straight-shaft trimmer is powered by a brushless motor and 56V 2.5Ah lithium battery for up to 56 minutes of powerful performance that rivals traditional 2-cycle trimmers. It cuts a 16-inch-wide swath to get the job done efficiently.

This battery trimmer weighs in at a comfortable 9.75 pounds, making it a relatively lightweight choice at this level of capability. It features battery-saving low/high power settings for different cutting conditions, a variable-speed trigger, and a cushioned handle grip for comfort. The Speed-Feed cutting head comes preloaded with.095 trimmer line and reloads quickly without disassembly.

The Echo eForce battery trimmer is an excellent value for large-property maintenance. In our tests, the cutting power seemed to be slightly less than that of the DeWALT and STIHL trimmers, but it was still very capable. In high-power mode we trimmed for about 40 minutes. But the better-than-average power and wider swath meant that in 40 minutes with the Echo, we were able to complete work that other trimmers would need an hour to accomplish. The noise level was good, and reloading was fast and easy.

This trimmer could have scored higher with improved balance. Although it is a lightweight trimmer overall, most of the weight is in the working end. The heavy cutting head forces the operator to compensate by lifting upward on the front handle and pushing downward on the rear handle while working. We tested with the 2.5Ah battery that comes standard. Working with the available 5Ah battery (sold separately) would rebalance the trimmer to some degree while doubling runtime and increasing overall weight.

Product Specs

• Excellent price for this combination of power and runtime
• Wide cutting swath and power performance for large properties
• Rapid charging system charges the battery in less than 40 minutes

Get the Echo battery trimmer at The Home Depot or Acme Tools.

Worx WG163 20V Power Share GT 3.0 String Trimmer

Owners of small yards may find this lightweight string trimmer an excellent option. It weighs just 5.5 pounds and easily converts from a trimmer to an edging tool; a built-in wheel helps balance the tool while edging. A push-button feed system gives the ability to extend the trimmer string without bumping the 12-inch trimmer head or manually pulling additional string from the trimmer. It comes with two 20V batteries and a charger, and the battery lasts for up to 20 minutes on a full charge.

This Worx string trimmer tackled our grassy areas with ease, both the weedy and weed-free zones, but it wasn’t as capable on rough areas. We were particularly impressed by the edger function, which we found comfortable and well balanced thanks to the 90-degree shaft-rotation capability. The adjustable trimmer head and upper handle let us customize the working angle, but the process of doing so proved clunky. We had to reach down and turn a rather stiff knob at the connection point between the shaft and cutting head to unlock and relock the angle for each adjustment.

Product Specs

• Trimmer and edger in a single tool
• Smooth push-button Command Feed spool system
• Adjustable head tilts to 90 degrees
• Battery provides limited runtime, although a second battery is included
• Head-tilt adjustment is somewhat awkward and clunky
• Relatively long 60-minute charging time for 20 minutes of runtime

Husqvarna 320iL 40V Battery String Trimmer

One limiting factor of most string trimmers is the cutting head’s direction of rotation; it matters more than one might think. The direction of rotation determines where the clippings will go, and in some situations, how the user should grip the trimmer. The Husqvarna 320iL 40V battery trimmer offers a solution, thanks to its dual-direction cutting head. At the touch of a button, we could change from clockwise to counterclockwise rotation and back, without changing grip on the handles.

This straight-shaft trimmer is powered by an efficient brushless motor and 40V 4Ah battery that drives about 45 minutes of runtime per charge. It features a Rapid-load cutting head that comes prespooled with.080 trimmer line and cuts a 16-inch swath. Low-vibration technology improves operator comfort, and the machine weighs in at just over 10 pounds with the battery.

The Husqvarna 320iL ranked near the top of the test group in terms of user comfort and quiet operation, but its power was somewhat underwhelming after the big showing from the STIHL and DeWALT trimmers. We were super impressed with the dual-direction feature. It allowed us to use the trimmer right- or left-handed, and we could safely trim curb lines from either direction without standing in the street. On high-power mode the trimmer performed lawn-trimming duty superbly, but in heavy weeds and natural areas it could not keep up with the more powerful trimmers.

Anyone not interested in going off the beaten path might still do well to consider this trimmer. Its balance is impeccable, rivaling the STIHL in comfort even though it’s a fraction of a pound heavier. And for quiet operation, this one takes the gold medal. The only real question regarding comfort and control was, why so many buttons? Its four thumb-operated buttons control on/off, high/low power, clockwise rotation, and counterclockwise rotation.

Product Specs

• Dual-direction trimmer head leaves clippings where desired
• Excellent balance for comfortable extended use and less fatigue
• Among the quietest of the trimmers we tested
• The 4 buttons and a trigger seem like too many controls
• Even the high power is not adequate for heavy-duty trimming

Get the Husqvarna battery trimmer at Lowe’s.

Worx WG170 20V Power Share Revolution String Trimmer

While plenty of string trimmers also function as edgers, we found this model to have the best dual-function design. At the push of a button, the trimming head on the Worx WG170 Revolution trimmer converts to an edger that rolls easily along the edge of a sidewalk or driveway. The head tilts up to 90 degrees, so it is easy to reach weeds on slopes while standing comfortably.

The trimmer comes with two batteries plus a charger and three extra spools of trimmer line. The string trimmer also boasts a handy spacer guard that keeps it from bumping into plants, and the shaft adjusts to suit taller or shorter users. It cuts a 12-inch swath and operates on a 20V lithium-ion battery. We tested the tool with the 2Ah battery, but it also comes with a 4Ah battery at some retailers.

In our yard, this trimmer cut through and created a crisp edge on both weedless and weedy lawn areas. We really liked the easy adjustable feature on the trimmer head: A twist lock holds it in just the right position, up to 90 degrees, for a customized working angle for users of different heights. Also, the batteries are interchangeable with those of many other Worx 20V cordless tools.

Product Specs

• Adjustable upper handle to accommodate users of different sizes
• Trimmer head converts to an edger for use along sidewalks or driveways
• Comes with 2 batteries to make up for shorter runtime
• Requires a relatively long charging time
• Trimmer feels underpowered for tackling coarse, heavy weeds
• Only 20 minutes of runtime per charge

Get the Worx WG170 GT battery trimmer at Amazon or Target.

Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

The Greenworks Pro 80V trimmer is a quality tool that adapts to a variety of other functions with attachments such as a brush cutter. (However, attachments are sold separately.) The 2Ah battery provides up to 45 minutes of runtime and recharges in just 30 minutes. The brushless electric motor is efficient and quiet, providing plenty of torque to cut through heavy weeds without the noise and smell of a gas-powered unit.

In our test areas, the Greenworks Pro trimmer was powerful enough to cut through the toughest weeds and vines with ease. The heavy battery weighs the machine down toward the rear, but the included adjustable shoulder strap makes operation more comfortable. The battery is compatible with other Greenworks 80V tools. Just don’t get too excited about the variable-speed trigger: Although it’s intended to allow a gradual increase from “off” to “high” speed, we found the range of movement between the two to be minuscule; in effect, the trimmer is either “off” or “on.”

Product Specs

• Battery type: 80V 2Ah lithium ion
• Runtime: 45 minutes
• Weight: 10.6 pounds without battery
• Trimmer has a quiet, efficient brushless motor
• The recharging time is only 30 minutes; runtime is 45 minutes
• Gas-like power and performance without the noise and smell
• Slight lag time between triggering and full power
• The trimmer’s adjustable speed feature is difficult to use
• Weight is balanced toward the rear, but shoulder strap helps

Get the Greenworks Pro battery trimmer at Amazon.

What to Consider When Choosing a Battery Trimmer

When shopping for string trimmers, also known as weed eaters, keep in mind yard size, how often the tool will be used, and the height and strength of the primary user. The following key considerations will help in selection.

Trim Width

Trim width, also called swath width, indicates how wide a path the trimmer will cut through weeds in a single pass. Many models on the market today feature swath widths of 10 to 18 inches. The wider the width, the more power the trimmer must have, which often means the tool will be heavier because it will require a larger, more powerful battery.

Battery Type

Running a string trimmer requires a hefty dose of power. Though most of today’s trimmers run on rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, a few accept nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries. Li-ion batteries are more powerful, but NiCad batteries are less expensive (an average of 70 to 125 less). Li-ion batteries also are smaller, hold a charge longer, and provide full power throughout the discharge cycle.

NiCad batteries suffer from “memory effect,” meaning if the battery is used before it has fully charged—or if it’s recharged before its power depletes—it will “remember” the earlier charge level and won’t hold a longer charge in the future. If choosing a trimmer that has a NiCad battery, let it charge fully before use and drain completely before charging. For most users, a string trimmer with a Li-ion battery will be the best choice.

Voltage

Along with battery type, consider how much operating power the battery has, which is measured in volts. Today’s rechargeable string trimmer batteries average from 18 volts up to an average of 60 volts of power. powerful batteries at the high end often are intended for commercial use and can cost 200 or more per battery.

Some string trimmers in this category sell without a battery (or battery charger), which the user must purchase separately. This could be a cost-saving benefit for those who are adding to a same-brand, battery-compatible cordless tool collection, since the same battery will power multiple tools. However, it can be more convenient to purchase a kit with multiple batteries to have one on the charger while the other is in use.

Feed Type

The “feed” of a string trimmer indicates how the trimmer head releases additional trimmer line as it becomes frayed and broken during use. The standby is a bump feed where the user bumps the bottom of the trimmer (the area where the spool attaches) on the ground to release a few inches of fresh line.

Some newer models feature an auto-feed sensor that gauges the length of the strings and releases more when needed. Still others have a push button to release more line. Auto and button feeds eliminate the need to bump the spool, which can reduce the risk of damage if bumped too hard, but many commercial-type trimmers still use bump feed because it’s quick and easy.

Curved vs. Straight Shaft

Some string trimmers feature a straight shaft that runs from the handle to the cutting head, while other models feature a distinct curve in the lower shaft about two-thirds of the way down. Some users find curved-shaft trimmers to be easier to operate since the spool end already rests at a handy angle for weed whacking.

Straight-shaft trimmers often accommodate interchangeable tools, such as a tree trimmer head, which can be swapped out depending on the task at hand. In general, straight-shaft trimmers work better for users at least 6 feet tall, while shorter users will appreciate curved-shaft trimmers.

Noise

Battery-powered string trimmers have a distinct advantage over gas-powered trimmers when it comes to noise pollution. Gas-powered trimmers are moderately loud, emitting an average of 90 decibels (about as loud as a motorcycle passing by from 25 feet away). By contrast, a cordless string trimmer emits approximately 77 decibels, which is comparable to casual conversation.

FAQs

Those who are still unsure about how to use a battery string trimmer may find the following answers to common questions about these tools helpful.

Q. Can a string trimmer cut weeds?

A string trimmer is used to cut and control weed growth around the home and garden. However, light-duty trimmers may have issues with very dense weed growth.

Q. Can you use a string trimmer to cut grass?

A string trimmer can be used to cut grass, though you need to be careful not to cut the grass too short while trying to keep the trimmer balanced. It isn’t the easiest way to cut the grass, but it is possible.

Q. Can you edge with a string trimmer?

Yes, a string trimmer can be used for edging the garden, driveway, walkway, or sidewalk. If you have a large yard, it may be better to invest in a separate edging tool.

Q. How many volts should be in a trimmer?

String trimmer batteries average from 18 volts up to 80 volts. Typically, the higher the voltage, the longer the battery life.

Q. How do you edge a lawn with a string trimmer?

Hold the string trimmer perpendicular to the lawn to keep the cut even. Position the head about 4 inches off the soil so the string has space to rotate. The string should rotate and cut through the grass and dirt. As you move along the desired borders, keep the head balanced and even. Clean up the cut grass and dirt to finish the job.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with a background in the nursery and landscaping industry. For more than 20 years he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn-care products, and other outdoor-living goods.

Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor.