The 5 Best Weed Eaters (2023 Guide)

You can give your yard a clean and uniform cut by trimming and edging your grass where the lawn mower can’t reach. Trimming, or weed eating, allows you to cut the areas around stationary objects in your yard. Edging helps you cut a straight line in the grass where your yard meets mulch beds, roads, and sidewalks.

To help you select the weed eater that’s best for your lawn, the This Old House Reviews Team evaluated weed eaters on Amazon that can fulfill your yard’s needs. Here are our top recommendations.

Top 5 Weed Eaters

• Best for Heavy-Duty Jobs: Husqvarna Detachable Gas String Trimmer
• Best for Small Yards: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit
• Best Corded: Greenworks Corded String Trimmer
• Best Lightweight: WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger
• Best Battery-Powered: CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger

Best for Heavy-Duty Jobs: Husqvarna Detachable Gas String Trimmer

Courtesy Amazon

Husqvarna Detachable Gas String Trimmer

• $199.99

Prices taken at time of publishing.

This versatile gas weed eater can cut through a large area of your yard with its 17-inch cutting diameter. Plus, this product can tackle more than just trimming. It has the capability to attach separately sold items such as a pole saw, edger, and cultivator directly to the weed eater.

• $199.99 at Amazon

Pros and Cons

✔ Reduced starter cord resistance assists in starting the engine
✔ Capability to attach pole saw, edger, and cultivator, all sold separately
✔ Curved shaft design helps distribute the uneven weight of the trimmer
✔ Tap ‘N Go string release system gives you more string as needed

✘ Oil and gas must be mixed yourself
✘ Motor has difficulties starting, according to some reviewers

What Customers Are Saying

Many customers complimented this product’s power and balance. However, some reviewers noticed a performance decrease while trimming thick grass and weeds. Others felt the weed eater was heavy and awkward, despite the curved design. In one review, a customer detailed beneficial steps for mixing gas and oil, noting that non-ethanol gasoline is best and emphasizing the importance of mixing according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Bottom Line

This string trimmer is designed for homeowners with large lots that require extensive yard maintenance. The power of a gas trimmer is hard to match, especially when cutting thicker yard areas. If you don’t mind dealing with an engine and the maintenance it requires, this weed eater could be a good fit for your trimming and edging needs.

Best for Small Yards: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit

Courtesy Amazon

BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit

• $129

Prices taken at time of publishing.

Battery-powered trimmers are notorious for their short usage times, but this weed eater offers a longer battery life with its 40-volt model. Plus, it can easily convert to a trimmer.

• $129 at Amazon

Pros and Cons

✔ Automatic feed spool system delivers the right amount of line before every use
✔ Low noise design
✔ Charging indicator tells you how much battery is left
✔ Capability to easily convert to trimmer with rotating pole design

✘ Only one battery, so there’s no backup if it dies during use
✘ Amazon reviews consistently critique the leaf blower’s lack of power

What Customers Are Saying

Many reviewers commented on the battery’s longevity. Reviewers also praised the weed eater’s balanced weight and telescoping handle that adjusts to the user’s height. While the weed eater’s pole is adjustable, some customers had difficulty turning the pole, and others commented on the pole’s inability to absorb vibration.

Bottom Line

While Amazon customers suggest this trimmer’s battery life is better than most other battery-operated products, it is best suited for small jobs. Since only one battery is included, it’s important to finish the job on one charge. Features such as the automatic feed spool system and quiet design make your small jobs more manageable.

Best Corded: Greenworks Corded String Trimmer

Courtesy Amazon

Greenworks Corded String Trimmer

• $109.99

Prices taken at time of publishing.

This corded weed eater from Greenworks offers a long runtime without the pungent fumes of a gas trimmer. The 10-amp motor paired with an 18-inch cutting diameter is strong enough to power through tall grass and tough weeds.

• $109.99 at Amazon

Pros and Cons

✔ Electric start with cord lock feature
✔ Large cut path at 18 inches
✔ Cushion and over-mold grip for comfort and better handling
✔ Quick connect coupler allows for attachments from various name brands

✘ Variable speed control can be fussy and inaccurate
✘ Bump feed control system malfunctioned for many customers

What Customers Are Saying

One Amazon customer pointed out that the trimmer provides comparable power to that of a gas trimmer without the powerful fumes. Many reviewers raved about its easy assembly. While reviewers described the product’s powerful performance, some critiqued its design, citing poor ergonomics that forced the hand to wrap awkwardly around the handle.

Bottom Line

This corded weed eater is a good fit if you have a small yard. Though it’s powerful enough to cut through brush and heavy grass on large lots, the cord limits mobility to 100 feet from the power source. Despite an awkward design, the trimmer is affordable and effective.

Best Lightweight: WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

Courtesy Amazon

WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

• $139

Prices taken at time of publishing.

The WORX WG163 is lightweight at only six pounds. It utilizes two 20-volt batteries that can be interchanged with various WORX products, such as leaf blowers and drills. The weed eater has helpful features, including an attached spacer guard to protect your flowers.

• $139 at Amazon

Pros and Cons

✔ Command feed spool system gives you more control at the touch of a button
✔ Spacer guard prevents unwanted cutting of flowers and plants
✔ Free spools for life with paid shipping costs
✔ Interchangeable battery works with a variety of WORX tools

✘ Command feed system is prone to jamming
✘ Battery life can be unpredictable, according to some reviews

What Customers Are Saying

Amazon reviewers agreed that this lightweight mower is suitable for small, simple jobs. One reviewer cited the ease of the command feed system for distributing the line. Reviewers had varying responses on the trimmer’s battery life. Some said they could trim for up to 30 minutes on one charged battery, whereas others said they could trim for only 15 minutes.

Bottom Line

This is a suitable weed whacker for individuals who have difficulty managing heavier gas trimmers or have a smaller yard that doesn’t require a weed eater to last over an hour. This is an affordable trimmer for tackling small yard work without requiring users to have the technical skills of feeding in a new line or mixing oil and gas.

Best Battery-Powered: CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger

Courtesy Amazon

CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger

• $119

Prices taken at time of publishing.

The 20-volt battery-powered weed eater from CRAFTSMAN offers customers a quiet, portable solution for their yard maintenance needs. To maximize the battery’s power, the trimmer offers two speed settings to optimize your battery’s life.

• $119 at Amazon

Pros and Cons

✔ Two speed settings to balance the power of the trimmer and its runtime
✔ Adjustable length pole
✔ Push button feed system to deliver trimmer string at the touch of a button
✔ Battery compatible with a variety of CRAFTSMAN tools

✘ Only one battery included
✘ Feed system delivers line every time the head stops spinning, even when it’s not needed

What Customers Are Saying

Reviewers were satisfied with the ergonomics of this weed eater, complimenting the user-friendly adjustable shaft and handle. Though some reviewers thought the push-button feed system was unhelpful, others preferred it to other models’ Tap ‘N Go system. Despite being battery-powered, one customer stated the weed eater lasted long enough to trim their almost three-acre yard.

Bottom Line

This trimmer is a good choice if you want something portable and user-friendly. You can focus on your yard’s basic maintenance without the hassle of maintaining an engine or mixing oil and gasoline.

Buying Guide for Weed Eaters

Before deciding which weed eater is best for you, you should consider several important factors, including the type of weed eater, the fuel source, the line shape and size, and the machine’s function. Read our buying guide below to learn about the most important factors.

Type

Before deciding on a weed eater, it’s important to understand the different types available. There are gas, electric, and battery-powered weed eaters. What’s the best weed eater for your lawn care routine?

Gas

A gas-powered trimmer is a smart choice if you have a lot of acreage and thick grass that requires more power and runtime. However, gas weed eaters are typically heavier, requiring more energy to handle than electric or battery-powered trimmers.

Electric

If you value ease of use, electric trimmers are a good choice. As long as you have a cord and access to an outlet, you have unlimited runtime with a trimmer that is simple to start, quiet while running, and easy to maintain. The downside to many electric trimmers is that they aren’t as portable and can only go as far as the cord will allow. These weed eaters are a great choice for small yards.

Battery-Powered

Battery-powered trimmers are a smart choice if you’re looking for a quiet, portable weed eater that doesn’t release the fumes from gasoline or oil. Many battery-powered trimmers are effective, though some users find these weed eaters to be weak and have longer downtimes due to charging needs.

Line

Your choice in line can make or break getting a chore done as painlessly as possible. Weed eater lines vary in both size and shape. Here’s a breakdown:

Shape

• Round: This shape is basic, easy to find, versatile, and sturdy with minimal breakage.
• Square: This is a heavy-duty choice for tougher weeds but not brush.
• Multi-sided: A step above square as far as durability goes, this is a good choice for thicker brush.
• Twisted: This choice is more expensive but well-suited for heavy workloads.

Size

The thinner the line, the lighter the weed you can “eat.”

• 0.065-0.080: Light work—grass and grass-like weeds
• 0.085-0.105: Medium—grass plus non-woody weed
• 0.110 and above: Heavy—all types of weed and brush

Function

Your weed trimmer’s size, weight, and maneuverability should accommodate the work you need to complete. If your yard has a lot of trees or lawn furniture and you need to get in nooks and crannies, stay away from heavy-duty weed eaters with wide shields. A heavier option may be better if you have an open space and want a power tool to make strong, sweeping cuts through intense brush.

Brands

Some of the most reliable weed eater brands include Husqvarna, Greenworks, Ego, RYOBI, BLACK+DECKER, CRAFTSMAN, WORX, DEWALT, ECHO, and STIHL.

Weed Eater Safety Tips

Using a weed eater can be dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. Here are some of the most important things to remember to operate a weed eater safely.

User Guide

When it comes to any power tool, it’s important that you know your product model. Review the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly to ensure you understand all the safety risks and recommendations for handling and care.

Maintenance

After use, clean the string trimmer with a cloth and dish soap to avoid a clogged machine. Remove and clean the air and fuel filters and the spark plug. Some gas weed eaters may need oil changes.

In-Use Safety

Weed trimmers can be heavy, commonly at least 10 pounds before being filled with gas. Form matters when using these power tools. Avoid injury by using both hands and a tight grip. Stand straight with a slight bend in your knees. Some customers prefer an over-the-shoulder harness for additional back support. Do not operate the tool within 60 feet of another person.

For additional tips, learn as This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates how to use a weed eater safely and effectively:

Frequently Asked Questions About Weed Eaters

When is the best time to use a weed eater?

Weed eaters should be used whenever you mow your lawn to help you eliminate tough-to-get weeds that a mower can’t reach. Unlike mowers, weed eaters can be used all year round to keep up maintenance and eliminate unwanted vegetation.

What’s the difference between a string trimmer and a weed eater?

String trimmers, weed eaters, and weed whackers typically refer to the same product type. The name may vary based on the manufacturer, model, or region.

Can weed eaters be used on wet grass?

Weed eaters should not be used on wet grass. This could lead to scalping or bald patches.

Why Trust The This Old House Reviews Team

This Old House has empowered homeowners for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement content in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content on its website and social media platforms. The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content to help inform your purchasing decision for just about any item or resource that you might need for your home. The This Old House Reviews Team has written over 1,000 reviews on products in the home space, from cordless drills to kitchen trash cans, lawn mowers, and dining room decorations.

We recommend products in each review using an intensive research process, spending hours combing through the best available models on Amazon. For a product to make our list of top picks, it must hold a solid sales record on Amazon, have consistently positive customer reviews, and offer unique features, among other factors. After narrowing down our list of recommendations, we conduct additional research and sometimes in-person testing to ensure that the products meet our standards. Once we conclude the research phase, we craft a well-rounded, user-friendly article that includes our recommended products and additional information to help homeowners like you make the right purchase.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.