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When was the last time you looked out at your garden and thought, “Man. That garden looks great!”
Hopefully, it wasn’t too long ago. However, if you find that your garden is overcome with weeds and looks, frankly, like a mess, you might want to consider investing in an electric weed eater. While weed whacking isn’t necessarily an enjoyable task, it’s one that you have to get done if you want your plants to thrive.
Luckily, there are tons of awesome electric weed wackers on the market– you shouldn’t have a hard time finding one. Choosing between them all and knowing the difference between their features and benefits? Now that’s another story!
We’ve done all the work for you, sifting through the Internet to find all of the best products. Ready to learn more about the best electric weed eater? Keep reading to equip yourself with the knowledge you need to make a smart purchase.
Best Electric Weed Wacker: Our Picks
After planting your garden or seeding your lawn, don’t assume that all of your work is done. In order to prevent problems related to overcrowding, nutrient depletion, and inadequate watering, you need to get rid of the weeds that are competing with your precious plants. Here are the best electric weed eaters you can find.
Runner-up
DEWALT DCST920P1 Brushless Trimmer
- Dimensions: 67.8 x 10.9 x 8.8 in
- Weight: 14 lbs
- Brand: DeWalt
Runner-up
BLACK+DECKER LSTE523 Li-Ion String Trimmer
- Dimensions: 9.2 x 41.3 x 5.7 in
- Weight: 6.3 lbs
- Brand: BLACK + DECKER
Runner-up
WORX WG163 PowerShare 12" Cordless String Trimmer & Edger
- Dimensions: 36.3 x 7.5 x 5.5 in
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Brand: WORX
Runner-up
Greenworks 12-Inch 24V Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
- Dimensions: 30.31 x 9.25 x 6.69 in
- Weight: 8.82 lbs
- Brand: Greenworks
Runner-up
Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer
- Dimensions: 5.16 x 19.13 x 13.27 in
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Brand: Makita
Runner-up
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer / Edger
- Dimensions: 46.5 x 13.5 x 11 in
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Brand: BLACK + DECKER
Runner-up
BLACK+DECKER MTE912 12-Inch Electric 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger and Mower
- Dimensions: 15.31 x 36.56 x 7.38 in
- Weight: 13.1 lbs
- Brand: BLACK + DECKER
Runner-up
Greenworks PRO 16-Inch 80V Cordless String Trimmer
- Dimensions: 65 x 7.5 x 9.2 inches
- Weight: 9.8 lbs
- Brand: Greenworks
Runner-up
DEWALT DCST970X1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Lithium-Ion Brushless 15" String Trimmer
- Dimensions: 14 x 45 x 12 in
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Brand: Dewalt
Runner-up
Greenworks 14-Inch 40V Cordless String Trimmer (Attachment Capable)
- Dimensions: 37.9 x 9.1 x 8.4 in
- Weight: 15.05 lbs
- Brand: Greenworks
Dewalt is a well-known brand in the hardware and tool sector, which is why we’ve included two weed eaters from them on our list! This product is designed with a variable speed motor, allowing you to adjust the speed of your trimmer to save on battery. It has a string cutting diameter of thirteen inches– much larger than you’ll find on a typical trimmer.
This battery-powered trimmer comes with a bump head feed and operates with high-efficiency, allowing you to have more run-time for less power. It is easy to use and is incredibly lightweight, allowing you to operate it no matter where you are or how strong you might be. It uses 0.080 dual lines and the speed control operates with a touch trigger. This trimmer even comes with a limited warranty of 3 years.
What We Liked:
- Reliable bump head feed
- Has variable speed control
- Easy to repair in case of any breakdown
What We Didn’t Like:
- Though lightweight, still one of the heavier weed eaters available
This battery-powered string trimmer can be used as both a weed eater and an edger with just a simple change of the head. It has a push-button string feed, a unique option for a weed eater to have. Most weed eaters will have bump head or auto-feed string changing options, but this dynamic trimmer allows you to let out small amounts of string only when you need it with the simple tap of a button.
This trimmer is reliable and well-built, a great option for yourself or even to give as a gift. It has an exclusive power drive transmission and an incredibly soft grip. It operates via cordless functioning, making it easier than ever to reach the furthest corners of your lawn.
What We Liked:
- Versatile dual-purpose function of both edger and trimmer
- Push-button string feed
- Soft, ergonomic grip
What We Didn’t Like:
- Should not be used on heavier debris and brush
Another battery-powered trimmer, this option is a great option for homeowners who want to make quick work of their lawns.This lightweight, ultra-reliable string trimmer and edger allows you to get the job done every time and comes with two lithium-ion batteries for back-up. It has a fully adjustable shaft, a must-have feature for the shortest and tallest gardeners among us. The handle is also quite comfortable and is adjustable, too.
This weed eater can be transformed from a trimmer to an edger in a matter of seconds by merely swapping out the set of rollers that it comes with. It has a cutting diameter of 12 inches, allowing you to get the job done quickly. It has push button string feeding and operates at a no-load speed of 7,600 RPM.
The WORX WG163 has dual-positioned in-line wheels, which help you make cleaner cuts when you are using it as an edger. It’s also relatively lightweight, coming in at less than six pounds. It comes with a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee as well as a three-year warranty. It is one of the best battery powered weed eaters you will find.
What We Liked:
- Comes with a flip-up edging option
- Shaft length is telescopic and easily adjustable
- Has a three-year warranty
What We Didn’t Like:
- Designed for light weeds and not heavier brush
This is a well-built battery-powered trimmer that is both affordable and convenient. It has a 12-inch cutting diameter and an auto-feed head that can feed a single line. It is very comfortable to work with, with an easy adjustment for height and a tilting head. It can be used on flat surfaces or on minor slopes with an edger that is both effective and easy to engage.
This trimmer’s battery has an exceptionally long life and provides power to a weed eater that moves quickly and effectively. It is fast, quiet, and reliable, offering great value with its four-position pivoting head. It operates with a cordless system, making it easy to use in any setting.
What We Liked:
- Excellent choice for small or mid-sized yards
- Has a pivoting head that allows you to fit the unit into tight corners
- Lithium-ion battery charges quickly and efficiently
What We Didn’t Like:
- Relatively heavy at nearly nine pounds
Another battery-powered cordless string trimmer, the Makita XRU02Z is a quiet and reliable cordless weed eater that can be used effectively by any person. It is balanced and lightweight and feeds out line via a standard bump feed system. Equipped with a 7,800 RPM motor, this trimmer works more quickly than many of its competitors.
The Makita XRU02Z even comes with an adjustable five-position head, allowing you to manipulate the power and speed of this unit to fit into any circumstance. It has a cutting diameter of only ten inches, which can be a bit of an inconvenience on a large yard, but is ideal for smaller parcels.
What We Liked:
- Has a low battery indicator light
- Five position-pivoting head makes it versatile and easy to use
- Shaft is telescopic and fully adjustable
What We Didn’t Like:
- Batteries are sold separately
This dynamic string trimmer, another excellent product by Black + Decker, has a unique design that makes it lightweight and well-balanced. It is quite comfortable to hold and to maintain for long periods of time. With a powerful 40V battery, you won’t be putting it away anytime soon! This battery offers plenty of power and run-time for a regular-sized yard.
This Black and Decker weed eater allows you to change easily from trimmer to edger by simply turning the shaft. It has a powercommand feature so that you can prioritize either runtime or power, and it is offered at a reasonable price– and by a reputable brand to boot.
What We Liked:
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Lightweight at less than eight pounds
- Easy conversion from weed eater to edger
What We Didn’t Like:
- Battery life is somewhat shorter than other models
This is a great option for people who are looking for a unique solution to their lawn care problems. The Black + Decker MTE912 is an innovative device that services a three-in-one edger, mower, and trimmer. You can get all of these landscaping functions in just one small tool. It is incredibly versatile and can be operated on inclines or tough to reach areas. The best corded electric string trimmer reviews almost always mention this product as one of their top choices.
Although this specific model is a corded electric device, you can also purchase it as a cordless version. Both come with a powerful 6.5 amp motor and a gear drive transmission that allows for maximum performance without getting bogged down. It comes with a wheeled edging automatic feed system to allow you to convert between functions.
This trimmer has a 12-inch cutting width and maintains a consistent speed. The feed system is lightweight and ergonomic, allowing you to adjust the height of your trimming while operating in comfort. You can insert and remove the trimmer and edger with a quick foot pedal release.
What We Liked:
- Three-in-one function makes it easier and quicker to clean up your entire lawn
- Comes with a two-year limited warranty
- Adjustable handle and height
What We Didn’t Like:
- Plastic ridge that covers motor assembly has been known to crack
This battery-powered weed eater is one of the most environmentally friendly options on our list as it operates via an 80V battery to give it the most reliable runtime and performance. It has a 16-inch diameter and has a front mount motor, which makes it easier to use while also providing more power. It comes with an extra battery that takes less than an hour to charge.
In addition, this electric weed eater has a straight aluminum shaft, giving you additional balance and comfort while you are working. It has a variable speed trigger for intricate control of where you cut. It’s also lightweight and comfortable to use, weighing in at less than ten pounds.
The Greenworks PRO has a string of 0.080 diameter and operates via a bump-feed. It is designed for heavy-duty jobs and even comes with a four-year warranty. The batteries also come with a warranty!
What We Liked:
- One of the best warranty programs around
- Allows you to work for up to 45 minutes before recharging
- Has an easy loading head for trimmer line
What We Didn’t Like:
- Guard has a tendency to throw clippings about when in use
This battery-powered string trimmer is another battery-powered option that is a great alternative if you are accustomed to working with a gas-powered weed eater. It comes with both a battery and a charger. Weighing only 12 pounds, it’s lighter than your average gas trimmer and also makes much less noise. Interestingly, this device only makes noise when you are cutting with it and not when you are allowing it to idle.
The Dewalt DCST970X1 is easy to start and comes with a speed trigger. You can select how much power you use based on the job you are working on, and you can save battery power by operating this weed eater on a low setting. If you need to switch to a heavier task, all you have to do is squeeze the trigger and cut through whatever is in front of you.
What We Liked:
- 15” cutting path to save you extra time
- 60 v lithium-ion battery and charger are included
- Speed trigger allows you to conserve battery when you don’t need the extra power
What We Didn’t Like:
- Ineffective guard that blows grass all over
This battery-powered cordless string trimmer is another excellent pick from Greenworks. It is somewhat smaller than comparable models, serving as the perfect choice for people with smaller lots to clear. It has a brushless motor technology that delivers more power, longer runtime, and more energy efficiency.
One battery charge can provide up to an hour of operation, which is usually all you will need for your yard. It has consistent power and is extremely quick to charge. Producing zero harmful emissions, it is also quiet to operate– you don’t have to worry about annoying your neighbors at all!
This trimmer cuts about a 14” swath. While it’s not as wide as similar models, it’s plenty enough to get the job done. If you are looking for a trimmer that will handle your yard without being too much overkill, this is the weed eater for you.
What We Liked:
- Lightweight unit that can be used by just about anyone
- Noiseless motor for quiet operation in crowded settings
- Outstanding battery life and quick recharge time.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The included instruction manual can be difficult to comprehend
Things to Consider When Looking for a Weed Eater
You’ve mowed the lawn, carefully weeded your flower beds… now what? It’s time to tidy up around the edges. While you can do this the old-fashioned way by getting down on your hands and knees, it’s much easier to get the job done with a weed eater.
However, knowing what to look for can be a bit daunting. Here are the top considerations you need to make when shopping for your next (or first!) weed eater.
What is a Weed Eater?
Although weed eaters are essentially the same thing as electric trimmers, there are some minute differences between the two. Weed Eater is technically a brand name of the original kinds of string trimmers. Today, the phrase Weed Eater is used interchangeably with the word “trimmer,” just like people call tissues Kleenex even though there are multiple brands.
With a weed eater, you can perform a variety of tasks. You can get rid of thorny vines or brush, or you can use the tool as an edger to trim weeds along pathways and driveways. You can also trim small bushes and shrubs or even mulch leaves with most types of weed eaters.
The 3 Types of Weed Eaters
Broken down a bit further, weed eaters can be characterized as electric trimmers, gas trimmers, and battery-powered trimmers.
- Electric powered weed trimmers are preferred by homeowners because as long as you have power, you can start this kind of device. You may be limited by the length of your electric cord, meaning it might not be ideal for a massive lawn, but keep in mind that you can easily add an extension cord.
- Gas trimmers have more powerful motors but need a lot of maintenance. They can be difficult to start and quite noisy to boot, making them impractical for people who live in crowded areas.
- Battery-powered trimmers are portable and quiet, but usually can’t perform for more than an hour or so.
In our review, we’ve included some of the best corded (electric) and cordless (battery-powered) weed eaters you can find. Neither require gas and instead are powered by electricity, with battery-powered weed eaters simply needing to be recharged from time to time instead of being connected to your power outlet at all times while trimming.
Cords vs Weight
You need to think about your physical limitations as you are selecting the best weed eater for your needs.
The lightest weed eaters are the corded ones since they don’t have a gas tank, battery, or metal pistons. Battery-powered electric weed eaters tend to weigh a little more than corded ones because of the battery. Gas-powered weed wackers will be the heaviest, weighing ten or more pounds in most cases.
Of course, the tradeoff when buying a light, corded weed eater is mobility. You’ll be limited by the length of your cord, which will also get tangled and caught on things. Still, you won’t need any fuel or recharging, so you can keep it running until it overheats.
Noise Level
Gas-powered weed eaters are the noisiest because they have powerful motors that are designed to tackle heavier material. If you don’t have large tasks to tackle, a quieter battery-powered or electric weed eater should get the job done just fine.
Cost
Gasoline trimmers tend to be on the more expensive side while electric or battery powered options cost much less. Consider the size of your yard before deciding on your budget, but keep in mind that weed eaters can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 (or more for all the bells and whistles).
Environmental Impact
If you’re looking for a machine that won’t further burden the environment, consider either a corded or cordless electric or battery-powered trimmer. Because these don’t produce any emissions, they are easier on the environment. Many states have incentives in place to encourage you to purchase a corded or battery-powered weed eater, too, making it an even smarter choice for your conscience – as well as your wallet.
How to Choose The Best Electric String Trimmer for Your Garden
Now that you’ve settled on an electric trimmer versus a gas-powered machine, it’s time to think about the features that are important to have in an electric weed eater. Here are the top concerns you should think about before making your purchase of a rechargeable weed eater or an electric grass trimmer.
Extendability
Not everybody who uses a weed eater is going to be the same height; therefore, it’s important to consider how extendable your weed eater is. The best electric grass trimmers will be able to extend out, with some moving out several feet or more. Remember that this kind of flexibility does come with a tradeoff: the further you extend it, the more you throw off its balance.
Design
The design of an electric trimmer will play an important role in your final purchase decision. All weed eaters will have a handhold at the top with a second handle midway down the shaft of the unit to provide balance and stability. The motor and rotor will be responsible for spinning the cord or string from the bottom of the shaft.
Most weed eaters are made out of materials like plastic, aluminum, and in rare cases, steel. You won’t find much variation between machines in this regard. However, a well-designed electric trimmer will have good grips and handle positioning that gives you the angle necessary to avoid awkward bending or maneuvering.
Each weed eater will have a different kind of cutting string or cord, too. The string is very light but it is constantly worn away as the result of the repetitive cutting behavior. Usually, electric or battery-powered weed eaters will have round trimmer lines, which are designed to trim grass edges around a lawn and not to deal with heavy brush.
This string, as with other types of cutting string, is housed within the head of the unit and will have several different options for how you feed out more line. If you’re shopping for a more heavy-duty (usually gas-powered) weed eater, you might find cutting strings that are multi sided, twisted, or serrated – but again, these are less common in electric or battery powered weed eaters, as the unit typically does not have enough power to operate the heavier cutting lines.
Think carefully about the head of the weed eater. You can purchase a weed eater that has a bump feed, fixed feed, or automatic feed.
A bump feed is one that allows you to call for more line any time you need it. All you have to do is lightly bump the end of your weed eater against a firm, flat surface. The bumping motion will allow the head to feed out more line. You can bump as many times as you want.
An automatic feed, on the other hand, lets out string on a preset ratio. You won’t have to stop and bump the head to get more line, and you won’t have to replace the string as it gets too short. However, some autofeeders aren’t as efficient as others, with some models feeding out too much (and some too little) line.
Finally, a fixed feed weed eater will eliminate the need to bump the head for more string. It also rules out the possibility of the auto feeder releasing too much string. However, a weed eater with a fixed line will require you to stop working if the string wears down so that you can replace it with a new feed.
You will also have a shield encasing the cutting portion of the weed eater. This shield will help prevent debris like grass cuttings, weeds, or sticks from hitting you in the face. Usually, the shield is made out of plastic, but some weed eaters will have unique options for how their shields are positioned and constructed.
Warranty
Most weed eaters come with robust warranties, with a majority covering you for one to three years. Some offer lifetime warranties.
Remember, however, that a warranty should not be the primary reason you purchase a specific electric weed trimmer. Warranties can be tough to claim on, and companies will often try to prove that you mishandled the device and that was what caused the damage.
Therefore, it’s important to read up on the specific coverage of the warranty program before you make your purchase.
Recap
Electric weed eaters are useful tools that should be considered as an alternative to gas or powered weed eaters. They are easy to use and tend to be much lighter to operate. Plus, they are environmentally-friendly.
If you’re ready to take your lawn care to the next level, consider investing in one of these electric weed eaters today.
Electric Weed Eater FAQs
Where Can I Buy a Weed Eater?
There are well over fifty companies that specialize in weed eaters and string trimmers. You can purchase a weed eater from any company where you normally purchase lawn care equipment or from online retailers like Amazon.
What are some safety tips for using an electric weed eater?
Using an electric weed eater is not dangerous, but there are some easy-to-follow safety tips that you can incorporate to make operation a bit safer. For example, avoid bumping the head of the trimmer too hard against the ground, and try to hold it level when trimming near obstructions.
You should also wear proper eye protection and footwear, as you never know when an object or debris will fly back and hit you. You should avoid using a weed eater in tight quarters and avoid putting your hand anywhere near the trimmer head while in operation. Only use high-quality, safety-rated extension cords, and try not to overwork your weed eater’s motor by asking it to do more than it is capable of.
What Causes a Trimmer Line to Break?
Unfortunately, your trimmer line will break from time to time. This is not a catastrophic event, as you can easily replace the line on your electric weed eater. However, there are steps you can take to prevent the likelihood of this occurring.
The most common causes for trimmer line breaks are faulty parts, improper storage, and contact with a foreign object. Pay attention while you are operating your machine so that you can keep an eye out for what is coming. Avoid putting the head of your weed trimmer into areas where there is loose debris.
If something happens to break, try not to use cheap or knock-off replacement parts. You don’t need to invest thousands of dollars into fixing your equipment, but you should only use approved parts when fixing your weed eater. The same rule applies for storing your weed eater. If a weed eater is not stored properly, it can lead to corrosion and line breakage.
How Should I Maintain My Electric Weed Eater?
Luckily, electric trimmers don’t require as much regular maintenance as gas trimmers. However, there are simple steps you can take every day to make your electric weed eater last much longer. Try to only use the appropriate gauge of extension cord to power your device- this information will be available in the manufacturer’s pamphlet.
In addition, you should check your trimmer regularly for any damages. Clean off the air intake slots before each use to prevent the unit from overheating, and never immerse the trimmer in water or clean it with high-pressure water, as this can damage the internal components.
Store your trimmer indoors and out of the elements and you’ll reduce the likelihood that you will need to invest in expensive repairs (or a new trimmer) later on down the road.
Looking for more lawn storage and organization tips? Be sure to check out our review of the best garden hose reels to keep your lawn tidy and neat.
