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A weed eater allows you to cut the areas around stationary objects in your yard and trim grass where your lawn mower can’t reach. But you can also use it to edge, cutting a straight line in the grass where your yard meets mulch beds, roads, and sidewalks.
Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100-$225 for a high-quality weed eater, but the price can change depending on the make and model, as well as the power level of the device, and what features are included.
To help you find the best weed eater for your needs, we reviewed over 50 of the top weed eaters on the market and analyzed over 300 customer reviews. Our top choice overall is the CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger, which has a quiet operation with multiple speed settings and a push feed-button system. Read our guide below for more information about selecting the best weed eater.
Top 7 Weed Eaters
- Best Overall: CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger
- Best Battery-Powered: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit
- Most Versatile Greenworks Brushless Cordless String Trimmer
- Best Lightweight: WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger
- Best Design: Ryobi P2008A Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
- Fastest Charging: SKIL PWR CORE 15” String Trimmer
- Most Ergonomic: EGO ST1511T Cordless String Trimmer Kit
Compare Top-Rated Weed Eaters
| Product | Voltage/Engine | Line System | Cutting Diameter | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger | 20-volt battery | Push button feed system | 13 inches | 11 pounds | 3-year limited warranty |
| BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit | 40 volt battery | Automatic feed spool | Not listed | 11 pounds | 2-year limited warranty |
| Greenworks Brushless Cordless String Trimmer | 24-volt battery | Tap ‘N Go | 13 inches | 10 pounds | 4-year limited warranty |
| WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger | Two 20-volt batteries | Command feed spool system | 12 inches | 6 pounds | 3-year limited warranty |
| Ryobi P2008A Cordless String Trimmer/Edger | 18-volt battery | Automatic feed spool | 13 inches | 6 pounds | 3-year limited warranty |
| SKIL PWR CORE 15” String Trimmer | 40-volt battery | Tap N’ Go | 15 inches | 13 pounds | 5-year limited |
| EGO ST1511T Cordless String Trimmer Kit | 50-volt battery | Push button feed system | 15 inches | 10.3 pounds | 5-year limited |
| Product | Voltage/Engine | Line System | Cutting Diameter | Weight | Warranty |
Best Overall
CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger
- $99
- $119
- 17% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer / Edger?
Reviewers we found 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.
“I had a lot of trimming and edging to do and some of the undergrowth had become very tall and thick. The automatic feed worked perfectly and the trimmer is lighter than my old trimmer. The low setting went through the regular grass with ease. The high setting cut through the thicker growth very easily and quickly. I highly recommend this product.” — JD via Amazon
“…The trigger, while easy to engage, has a short contact point. Keeping the trigger engaged requires a stronger grip which causes hand fatigue. I have to keep switching hands to avoid cramping. I have used it briefly twice and found the auto-line function was frequently putting out too much line. Perhaps the motor stopping and restarting often because the trigger issue might have something to do with it.” — Dan K. via Amazon
Bottom Line
Our team finds that 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.
Best Battery-Powered
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit
- $108.13
- $129
- 16% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit?
Many reviewers commented on the battery’s longevity. Reviewers we found 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.
“The trimmer edger is very easy to use. It is lightweight, and the battery 1 battery has enough power to trim all around my house. With both batteries, I can trim and blow off my sidewalks and driveway with power to spare. It is a great trimmer.” — Harriet via Amazon
“…You will not be able to cut your entire yard with the included (2) 20v batteries. It takes a long time to recharge the batteries, so you will need to manage your time properly, or it will take a couple of days to cut the entire yard. The cutting length (diameter) of the circular cut is small, so it takes longer to cut than my corded weed wacker.” — Island Style via Amazon
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. We think that features such as the automatic feed spool system and quiet design make small jobs more manageable.
Most Versatile
Greenworks Brushless Cordless String Trimmer
- $118.05
- $159.99
- 26% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the Greenworks Brushless Cordless String Trimmer?
We noted that customers who were impressed with this trimmer liked how lightweight and easy to use it was. Others were impressed with its easy assembly and versatile design that worked well as both a trimmer and an edger. On the other hand, we did notice some customers say that this product’s battery sometimes did not work properly, and others said it lacked power to deal with difficult grass.
“This is a great product for anyone who struggles with a gas powered weed eater. It starts up every time without struggle. The battery lasts about 2 hours. It’s light weight and still cuts down weeds. My arms don’t get nearly as tired as they would with a gas powered weed eater.” — Sara Carey via Amazon
“…For country life, this doesn’t hold up too well. It doesn’t cut through the heavier weeds with ease like we were hoping. This is good for keeping the area around my gardens clean and around the house. that is regularly maintained. but for heavier work… we need something else.Battery usage is good. Comfortable to handle and carry but just not enough umph for all the work we were hoping to use this for.” — My Two Cents via Amazon
Bottom Line
We think this corded weed eater is a good choice if you have a small yard and are looking for a lightweight, straightforward trimmer and edger. Its battery-operated design improves its ease of use, but it’s overall lack of power means it may not be the right fit if you’re dealing with a larger area or thick, difficult-to-cut grass or weeds.
Best Lightweight Weed Eater
WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger
- $119
- $139.99
- 15% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Edger?
Amazon reviewers agreed that this lightweight mower is suitable for small, simple jobs. One reviewer we found 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.
“I’ve been searching and reviewing weed eaters for months and settled on this one. It was a great decision. The price is reasonable and affordable, has great cutting power, you get two batteries, but I did my yard only needing one, cuts through thick grass, lightweight and easy to use. This is the weed eater you want!!” — Christine via Amazon
“This is a good little trimmer for incidental trimming, but it’s underpowered. My previous trimmers were AC-powered and much, much stronger. Maybe I was expecting too much out of this little trimmer, but it still does the job. It tends to stall easily, so you need to take your time with it. Don’t buy it for large, heavy duty trimming projects because you will be disappointed.” — Biff via Amazon
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. We think 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 Design
Ryobi P2008A Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
- $109
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the Ryobi P2008A Cordless String Trimmer/Edger?
We found that customers who gave this weed eater a positive review generally liked that it was lightweight and had a long-lasting battery. Others were pleased that it came with variable speed control, which helped it last longer before running out of battery. However, some others found that this product lacked the power to cut through thick grass, and others found that it lacked balance.
“This unit very easily maneuvers the head from a weed whacker position to an edging position, and it has a wheel to rest it on while edging that is great for helping to keep the line straight and the right distance. I have tough Florida grass, and this does a good job cutting through it. A really cool feature is the self-adjusting line. Just let go of the trigger, and it adjusts without wasting line by overfeeding it or having to continue to bounce it off the ground to get the line to feed.” — Amazon Customer via Amazon
“The Ryobi 18v trimmer, unfortunately, falls short when it comes to tackling thicker grass. It lacks the necessary power to efficiently cut through dense vegetation, often requiring multiple passes to get the job done. … However, it’s worth noting that this trimmer works acceptably well when dealing with thinner grass. Its affordability and compatibility with my existing 18v batteries made it a convenient choice for quick testing.” — james g via Amazon
Bottom Line
Our team finds that this string trimmer is a great choice for customers looking for a lightweight string trimmer that’s perfect for tackling overgrown grass and weeds in standard-sized lawns.
Fastest Charging
SKIL PWR CORE 15” String Trimmer
- $119
- $159
- 25% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the SKIL PWR CORE 15” String Trimmer?
Our team found that customers who liked this product said that it was easy to use and had a lightweight design. Others were impressed with its ability to trim through thick weeds. However, some customers did find loading the bump line feed to be difficult, and others complained that the battery ran out quickly.
“What a joy to use this trimmer. Press the trigger and go. No more mix to fuss with, no more yanking your arm into oblivion…. This tool is very balanced and easy to use. Need more string, just tap and go. The battery is a fast charge, and I have never run the battery out before finishing my yard. No more head-banging noise pollution.” —Tom via Amazon
“The power this trimmer delivers is excellent. The battery life is excellent! I have yet to run out of battery. It is not lightweight, but I have gotten used to it and can manage to get our property trimmed without my arms giving out. My issue with this trimmer in the bump line feed. I have yet to get through my trimming without having an issue with the line. One side of the line will be okay, but the other side of the line has retreated into the head. Which means I have to stop and redo the entire line.” — Christine Sharp via Amazon
Bottom Line
Our team found that this weed eater is an ideal choice for those who prefer an electric trimmer that charges quickly. It has plenty of power and a large cutting width, as well as a lightweight design that’s easy for anyone to maneuver.
Most Ergonomic
EGO ST1511T Cordless String Trimmer Kit
- $199
- $219.99
- 10% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the EGO ST1511T Cordless String Trimmer Kit?
Customers who were impressed with this product raved about its power level and durable design. Others were impressed with its automatic string loader. However, there were some reviewers who felt this string trimmer was too heavy for some to operate and others had issues with it taking a long time to charge.
“It’s a little on the heavy side, but is well balanced, even with the heavy 4Ah battery. I have a pretty large yard, and have used it over a couple of days and still have not had to recharge the battery yet. …Tapping the head on the ground to advance the trimmer line works extremely well. I don’t have to pound it on the ground, just a light tap on the ground works great. The automated/powered line loading is a fantastic feature. I am amazed at the power of this trimmer, and it is easy to control the speed with the trigger.” — Kenny M. via Amazon
“Overall, my experience with the Ego trimmer has been positive, but there’s a significant discrepancy between the advertised and actual runtime. The trimmer itself performs admirably, but the claim of “up to 45 minutes of runtime” falls short in practice. On average, I’m only getting about 15 minutes of use before needing to recharge.”— jaebee via Amazon
Bottom Line
We recommend this weed eater for those who want maximum convenience and comfort when tackling weeds in your lawn. Its adjustable height is a huge plus for shorter people who may find longer string trimmers awkward to handle, and it has an easy-load technology that’s suited for beginners.
Weed Eater Buying Guide
While weed eaters generally all perform the same tasks, finding the right model for you depends on a variety of factors. Before choosing a new weed eater, it’s important to consider things such as the type of weed eater you prefer, how your weeds grow, the fuel source of the device, the size and ergonomics, and how often you will be using it. Read our buying guide below to learn more about the most important factors to consider when purchasing a weed eater.
What are the different types of weed eaters?
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 Weed Eater
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 Weed Eater
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 Weed Eater
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.
What are the differences in the line types of a weed eater?
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
How does function affect the weed eater you should buy?
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.
What are the best brands of weed eater?
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
While weed eaters are incredibly effective tools, they can also be dangerous ones, especially if proper precautions aren’t taken. Before using a new weed eater, look closely at the following safety tips.
Read the 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.
Perform Proper 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.
Use the Weed Eater Correctly
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?
Our experience shows that 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 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 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 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 team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
