Weed eaters turn messy edges into clean, sharp lines in minutes. The best ones feel light in your hands, start quickly, and cut through grass without a fight. Cordless models like the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX, Worx GT3.0, and compact 12‑inch 20V trimmers keep things simple and tangle-free, while the EGO POWER+ 15‑inch packs extra muscle.
For bigger jobs, 26cc gas cutters, the Husqvarna 122L, and a corded BLACK+DECKER 14‑inch give you steady, reliable power for a yard that looks freshly groomed.
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger |
| Best Overall | Power Source Type: 20V MAX lithium‑ion battery (cordless) | Cutting Swath/Width: 12-inch cutting swath | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): Converts between string trimmer and wheeled edger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger |
| Best For Small Yards | Power Source Type: 20V lithium‑ion battery (cordless) | Cutting Swath/Width: 12-inch cutting swath | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): Converts from trimmer to edger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Worx GT3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer & Edger |
| Most Versatile | Power Source Type: 20V PowerShare lithium‑ion batteries (cordless) | Cutting Swath/Width: 12-inch cutting diameter | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): Converts from string trimmer to edger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 26cc Gas Weed Wacker and Brush Cutter |
| Heavy-Duty Power | Power Source Type: 26cc 2‑cycle gas engine | Cutting Swath/Width: 16-inch cutting width | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): 2‑in‑1 trimmer plus 10-inch brush cutter blade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EGO POWER+ 15″ Cordless String Trimmer (ST1502SA) |
| Premium Performance | Power Source Type: 56V ARC lithium‑ion battery (cordless) | Cutting Swath/Width: 15-inch cutting swath | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): String trimmer only (no explicit 2‑in‑1 conversion) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 12″ 20V Cordless String Trimmer and Edger |
| Best Accessory Bundle | Power Source Type: 20V lithium‑ion batteries (cordless) | Cutting Swath/Width: 12-inch cutting width | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): 2‑in‑1 string trimmer and lawn edger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Husqvarna 122L 22cc Gas String Trimmer |
| Pro-Style Gas Pick | Power Source Type: 22cc 2‑cycle gas engine | Cutting Swath/Width: 17-inch cutting reach (shaft length; standard trimmer head width implied) | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): String trimmer only (no explicit 2‑in‑1 conversion) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BLACK+DECKER 14-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Weed Wacker |
| Best Corded Option | Power Source Type: 6.5‑amp corded electric motor | Cutting Swath/Width: 14-inch cutting path | 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter): 2‑in‑1 string trimmer and wheeled edger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
In case you desire a light, easy tool that still feels strong and confident in your hands, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger is built for you. You get a 12 inch cutting swath, so you cover more ground without feeling worn out. It feels simple, but not flimsy.
You can switch it from trimmer to wheeled edger in seconds, which makes your yard look sharp without dragging out extra tools. The adjustable height and soft grip handle let you set it up for your body, so your back and hands relax, not complain.
When you hit thicker grass or stubborn weeds, the PowerDrive transmission steps in and gives you stronger cutting power. In case you need to stretch your time, you can slow the tool with the 2 speed control and save battery. Both choices feel easy and clear.
The AFS automatic feed spool quietly handles the string for you, so you don’t stop and bump the head every few minutes. That smooth, steady line really makes trimming feel calm.
The 20V MAX lithium ion battery with 50 watt hours gives you noticeably longer runtime than the standard pack, and it fits other 20V MAX tools you might already own. In the box, you get the LST522 trimmer edger, the extended runtime battery, a 20V charger, an AFS spool, and a guard, so you’re ready to step outside and start cleaning up edges right away.
- Power Source Type:20V MAX lithium‑ion battery (cordless)
- Cutting Swath/Width:12-inch cutting swath
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):Converts between string trimmer and wheeled edger
- Line Feed / Cutting System:AFS automatic feed spool (no bumping)
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Includes 1× 20V MAX LBXR2520 lithium‑ion battery and charger
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:Adjustable height and soft‑grip handle for comfort
- Additional Feature:2-speed power/runtime control
- Additional Feature:PowerDrive increased torque
- Additional Feature:AFS bump-free line feed
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
In case you want a light, easy tool that makes trimming feel less like a chore and more like a quick task you can actually finish, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer/Edger is built for you. You get real cutting power with the POWERDRIVE transmission and a speedy 6200 RPM motor, so grass and weeds disappear fast. The 12 inch cutting swath covers a lot of ground each pass.
You can switch from trimmer to edger in seconds, which helps your yard look sharp. The automatic feed spool saves you from bumping. The adjustable handle, quiet operation, and cordless battery keep everything simple and calm.
- Power Source Type:20V lithium‑ion battery (cordless)
- Cutting Swath/Width:12-inch cutting swath
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):Converts from trimmer to edger
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) (no bumping)
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Includes 1× 2.0Ah lithium‑ion battery pack and wall‑mountable charger
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:Lightweight with adjustable handle and height positions
- Additional Feature:6200 RPM cutting speed
- Additional Feature:Wall-mountable charging base
- Additional Feature:Quiet, easy-start operation
Worx GT3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer & Edger
For busy homeowners who want a light, easy tool that still looks sharp along the edges, the Worx GT3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer & Edger feels like a real stress reliever. You snap it from trimmer to edger in seconds, then let the rubberized wheels guide you into clean, straight lines that make your yard look cared for, not chaotic.
You get a 12 inch cutting path, a fast 7600 rpm motor, and a 90 degree tilting head, so slopes and awkward corners don’t win. The push button line feed, spacer guard, two 20V batteries, and free spools for life keep each session simple.
- Power Source Type:20V PowerShare lithium‑ion batteries (cordless)
- Cutting Swath/Width:12-inch cutting diameter
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):Converts from string trimmer to edger
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Command Feed push‑button instant line feed; free spools for life
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Includes 2× 20V MaxLithium batteries and 20V charger
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:5.3 lbs; rubberized wheels and adjustable spacer guard for controlled edging
- Additional Feature:90° tilting trimmer head
- Additional Feature:Command Feed instant line
- Additional Feature:Free spools for life
26cc Gas Weed Wacker and Brush Cutter
Serious DIYers and busy homeowners who fight thick weeds and brush every weekend will love the power and control of a 26cc gas weed wacker and brush cutter. You get a 26cc air cooled, 2 cycle engine that delivers steady power and torque, so tough stems don’t slow you down.
With the 10 inch brush blade, you slice through thick vegetation. Then you swap to the precision trimmer head to clean up edges and tight spots. The 16 inch cutting width lets you clear big patches fast, while the light frame, rubber handle, shoulder strap, and quick start keep you comfortable.
- Power Source Type:26cc 2‑cycle gas engine
- Cutting Swath/Width:16-inch cutting width
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):2‑in‑1 trimmer plus 10-inch brush cutter blade
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Fixed trimmer head plus 10-inch blade (manual line management not detailed)
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Gas engine only (fuel supplied separately; no battery/charger)
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:Lightweight with rubber handle and shoulder strap; breaks down for transport
- Additional Feature:10-inch brush cutter blade
- Additional Feature:Fast start, 1–3 pulls
- Additional Feature:Breaks down for transport
EGO POWER+ 15″ Cordless String Trimmer (ST1502SA)
Need a trimmer that feels powerful akin to gas yet stays quiet, clean, and easy to handle in your yard. The EGO POWER+ 15 inch Cordless String Trimmer gives you that sweet spot where power, comfort, and control actually get along. You feel real muscle in your hands, but you don’t smell fumes or fight a pull cord.
You get a 15 inch cutting swath, so you cover more ground with fewer passes. The dual feed 0.095 inch spiral line cuts thick grass and stubborn weeds without shredding the line too fast. It feels steady, not jittery.
The high efficiency brushless motor runs smooth with low vibration, so your hands don’t buzz for an hour afterward. At the same time, the ARC Lithium battery tech keeps power consistent, so it doesn’t feel strong initially and weak at the end. Since the battery works with all EGO tools, you can build a whole setup around it over time.
With the 56 volt 2.5Ah battery, you get a solid run time, and charging from empty to full takes about 50 minutes. The fan cooled charger helps protect the battery through keeping it from overheating, which really matters should you trim often in hot weather. That same charger works with every EGO battery, so you don’t start a collection of random chargers.
Where this trimmer really helps your patience is the Rapid Reload head. Instead of fighting with tangled line, you just line up the arrows, feed the string through, then twist. It turns a job you usually dread into a short, simple step. That little win makes it easier to grab the trimmer on a busy day.
Variable speed control lets you dial things in. You can go lighter around fences, flower beds, and delicate edging, then push harder in tall or wet grass. You feel more in charge, not like the trimmer is dragging you along.
Because it’s IPX4 weather resistant, a light drizzle or damp grass won’t scare you back into the garage. You still have to use common sense, but you don’t panic should the sky looks iffy. The housing and design handle normal outdoor conditions without feeling fragile.
EGO backs the tool with a 5 year warranty and the battery with 3 years, which quietly tells you they expect it to last. Inside the box, you get the trimmer, one 56V 2.5Ah battery, and the standard charger, so you’re ready to go the same day.
- Power Source Type:56V ARC lithium‑ion battery (cordless)
- Cutting Swath/Width:15-inch cutting swath
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):String trimmer only (no explicit 2‑in‑1 conversion)
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Rapid‑Reload head for quick line replacement
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Includes 1× 56V 2.5Ah battery and standard charger
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:High‑efficiency brushless motor for low vibration; variable speed for control
- Additional Feature:Dual-feed spiral twist line
- Additional Feature:Rapid-Reload line head
- Additional Feature:IPX4 weather resistant
12″ 20V Cordless String Trimmer and Edger
A 12-inch 20V cordless string trimmer and edger like this one fits you perfectly in case you want clean edges and tidy grass without fighting heavy gas tools or tangled cords. You just pop in a battery, hit the trigger, and walk your yard with a lot less stress.
Two 2.0Ah batteries give you over 30 minutes of real trimming time, so you can finish most lawns in a single session. Let the battery cool before charging and it’ll last longer. The 90 degree head and 180 degree handle help your back stay happy, while the wheels guide you into clean driveway and sidewalk edges.
- Power Source Type:20V lithium‑ion batteries (cordless)
- Cutting Swath/Width:12-inch cutting width
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):2‑in‑1 string trimmer and lawn edger
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Automatic line feed system with line cutter and protective cover
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Includes 2× 2.0Ah lithium‑ion batteries and charger
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:90° adjustable head and 180° adjustable auxiliary handle; wheel‑based design
- Additional Feature:90° adjustable cutting head
- Additional Feature:Includes 8 extra spools
- Additional Feature:Spacer guard plant protection
Husqvarna 122L 22cc Gas String Trimmer
Homeowners who want a light, easy gas trimmer that starts without a fight will likely feel right at home with the Husqvarna 122L 22cc Gas String Trimmer. You get a 22 cc 2 cycle engine that feels powerful but not wild in your hands. With SMART START and an air purge system, you pull the cord and it actually listens. No drama, no endless yanking.
As you move along fences and flower beds, the straight 17 inch shaft helps you reach under bushes and around obstacles. The T25 Tap n Go head feeds more line with a quick tap, so you trim more and stop less.
- Power Source Type:22cc 2‑cycle gas engine
- Cutting Swath/Width:17-inch cutting reach (shaft length; standard trimmer head width implied)
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):String trimmer only (no explicit 2‑in‑1 conversion)
- Line Feed / Cutting System:T25 Tap n Go trimmer head (bump feed)
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Gas engine only (fuel supplied separately; no battery/charger)
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:Lightweight design with straight 17-inch shaft for reach and maneuverability
- Additional Feature:SMART START engine system
- Additional Feature:Air purge quick starting
- Additional Feature:High-capacity T25 head
BLACK+DECKER 14-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Weed Wacker
For small yards and tight spaces, the BLACK+DECKER 14-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Weed Wacker is a great fit whenever you desire solid power without the weight and hassle. You plug it in, squeeze the trigger, and feel the 6.5 amp motor and POWERDRIVE Transmission kick in. It trims tough grass fast, so you don’t feel stuck outside all day.
You also get an easy switch from trimmer to wheeled edger, so one tool handles borders and sidewalks. The auto feed spool keeps the line coming without bumping. With the adjustable handle, height settings, cord retention, and 2 year warranty, you feel supported, not stressed.
- Power Source Type:6.5‑amp corded electric motor
- Cutting Swath/Width:14-inch cutting path
- 2‑in‑1 Function (Trimmer/Edger or Trimmer/Brush Cutter):2‑in‑1 string trimmer and wheeled edger
- Line Feed / Cutting System:Automatic feed spool technology (no bumping)
- Included Power Pack (Battery/Fuel/Plug):Plugs into standard AC outlet (no battery; cord management system included)
- Weight/Handling & Ergonomics:Lightweight with adjustable handle and height; cord retention for hassle‑free handling
- Additional Feature:6.5-amp POWERDRIVE motor
- Additional Feature:Cord retention safety system
- Additional Feature:Rotating edge guide conversion
Factors to Consider When Choosing Weed Eaters
At the time someone selects a weed eater, a few key details quietly decide whether yard work feels simple or frustrating. Power source, cutting swath size, weight, ergonomics, line feed system, and runtime all work together to shape how comfortable and effective the tool will be. Through grasping how these parts connect, a buyer can match the weed eater to the size of the yard, personal strength, and how long they want to work without feeling worn out.
Power Source Options
Choosing a power source for a weed eater can feel confusing at the outset, but it gets much easier once each option is broken down in simple terms. Each type changes how the yard feels to work in, how tired someone gets, and what kind of jobs feel realistic.
Corded electric models plug in, so they give steady power and no charging, but the cord limits movement and needs an outlet nearby. Battery powered tools feel very free to use. Different voltages and battery sizes change how strong they feel and how long they run.
Gas weed eaters suit thicker weeds and longer sessions. They offer strong torque and long runtime, but they are louder, heavier, create emissions, and need fuel mixing and regular care.
Cutting Swath Size
Cutting swath size could sound like a small detail, but it quietly shapes how every trimming job feels from start to finish. It simply means how wide a path the weed eater cuts in one pass, usually measured in inches.
A larger cutting swath, like 15 inches, helps someone move quickly through big, open areas. It clears more grass and weeds at once, but it also asks more from the motor, especially in thick growth.
A smaller swath, around 10 to 12 inches, feels calmer and more controlled. It lets a person trim around flower beds, fences, and tight corners without worry.
For those with mixed spaces, an adjustable cutting head adds significant flexibility, so one tool can match different parts of the yard.
Weight and Ergonomics
Even a powerful motor will not matter much provided the weed eater feels heavy, awkward, and painful to hold after ten minutes. Weight and ergonomics shape how long someone can work and how their body feels afterward. A lighter tool puts less stress on arms and back, so longer trimming sessions feel possible instead of punishing.
Comfort grows whenever the shaft height and handle position adjust to the user’s body. This helps them stand straighter and avoid hunching. Soft-grip handles add a bit of welcome cushioning and improve control, especially whenever hands start to tire. Balanced weight keeps the tool from tipping forward and overloading shoulders. Features like shoulder straps and auxiliary handles then share the load, so the user can guide, not wrestle, the weed eater.
Line Feed System
While power and comfort often get most of the attention, the line feed system quietly decides how smooth or frustrating trimming will feel. Whenever the line feeds well, the job feels calm and steady. If it does not, every few steps turn into a stop and fix.
Automatic feed systems sense wear and advance line on their own, so the user just keeps walking and cutting. This helps hold the perfect line length and cuts down on waste. Bump feed heads ask the user to tap the trimmer on the ground, which gives more control but also more effort. Instant or push button systems sit in the middle, offering quick, on demand line with a simple press.
Runtime and Battery Life
Because trimming often happens in one focused push, runtime and battery life quickly become the quiet make-or-break details of a cordless weed eater. Whenever a battery lasts longer, the person trimming can finish more of the yard in one smooth session, without constant stops to recharge. That simple freedom often turns a tiring chore into a calm, steady rhythm.
Larger lithium-ion batteries, with higher amp hours or watt-hours, usually give both stronger power and longer runtime. Fast chargers then help cut the wait once the pack runs low. An automatic feed system also plays a part, since steady line length keeps the motor from working harder than it has to. Finally, battery platforms that fit several tools simplify yard care and make battery planning less stressful.
Noise and Vibration Levels
Power and runtime matter a lot, but the way a weed eater sounds and feels in the hands can quietly decide whether yard work feels peaceful or miserable. Gas models usually roar, which can bother neighbors and break local noise rules. In tight neighborhoods or early hours, a quieter electric or battery unit often feels kinder to everyone’s ears.
Sound and feel are closely linked. Loud tools often shake more, and that constant buzz can tire arms and wrists. Brushless motors and well balanced heads reduce vibration, so the machine feels smoother over time. Soft, ergonomic grips and vibration dampening parts also help. With these features, the tool feels more like an easy extension of the body instead of a fight to control.
Maintenance and Durability
Even the strongest weed eater will not stay reliable for long provided it is not cared for, so maintenance and durability deserve real attention before anyone chooses a model. At the point that a person plans for upkeep from day one, the tool runs smoother and lasts longer, which saves money and stress.
Regular cleaning of the trimmer head keeps grass buildup from choking the motor and lets the line or blade cut cleanly. Replacing worn line, blades, spools, and batteries with high quality, compatible parts protects performance instead of slowly wearing it down.
Good storage ties directly into durability. A dry, cool place, with batteries or fuel removed, helps prevent rust and decay. Lubricating moving parts, checking the transmission, and tightening fasteners regularly keeps the motor, shaft, and frame solid and safe.