Best String Trimmers – A Guide to Buying String Trimmers

string trimmer reviewsLooking for the best string trimmer? You’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll find a great deal of authentic string trimmer reviews that you help you to choose the perfect string trimmer for your needs. String trimmers are indeed a welcome addition to the tool shed of any yard owner.  They are designed to spin a nylon string at high speeds in order to cut through any grass, brush or weeds in areas that are inaccessible to lawnmowers, such as  around flowerbeds, trees and other obstacles.

Different Types of String Trimmers

Choosing the right string trimmer comes down to your personal preference and needs.  They are available in three different types including:

  • Gas-powered – These models are ideally suited for heavy-duty use such as cutting tough weeds and tall grass or for consumers with large lawns.  They typically weigh 10-14 lbs., which is more than electric or cordless models, but they are also more powerful and convenient since the user is not restricted by cords or battery life.

  • Electric – These models are best suited for consumers with small yards who plan on doing only light trimming and edging.  They typically weigh 4-6 lbs., which is much less than gas-powered models and still provide adequate power to cut through most grass and brush.  The run time for an electric trimmer is unlimited, but the downside is that the user is restricted by cord length.

  • Cordless – These models give consumers the best of both worlds thanks to a rechargeable battery, which provides an eco-friendly power source and unlimited portability.  They are ideally suited to consumers than plan on trimming many different areas of their lawn and higher end models will handle even the toughest weeds and tallest grass.  The run time for cordless models ranges from 15 minutes on up to an hour or more.

Additional Features to Consider

  • Spring-assisted advanced starting system – Makes starting a gas-powered string trimmer much easier by reducing how hard the operator must pull on the cord.

  • Four-Stroke Engine – Cleaner, quieter and more powerful than gas-powered trimmers using a two-stroke engines.

  • Curved or Straight Shaft – Straight shafts are typically longer and better suited for taller operators and for reaching under decks or beneath shrubs.  Curved shafts are more lightweight and comfortable to use.

  • Cutting Width – Heavy duty users should consider a trimmer with a cutting width of 15-18 inches, while less frequent users or those working in smaller areas can opt for trimmers with an 8-12 inch or 14-15 inch cutting width.

  • Semi-Automatic, Automatic Or Fixed-Line Heads – Semi-automatic heads, otherwise called “tap-and-go” heads require the operator to tap the cutting head on a solid, flat surface like a sidewalk to dispense more string.  Automatic heads disperse more string as needed without any action by the operator.  Fixed-line heads require the operator to manually replace the string as needed, however some models feature removable line cartridges, which makes the process quick and easy.

Recommended String Trimmers

Consumers and professionals that are planning on tackling large yards or tough brush and weeds should consider the Tanaka TCG22EASSLP 21.1cc 2-Stroke Gas Powered Straight Shaft Grass Trimmer Brush Cutter (CARB Compliant), which has consistently received high marks from owners.  It features a powerful 21.1cc commercial grade 2-stroke motor, a spring assisted starting system that reduces the pull force necessary to start by 50% and a semi-automatic head for hassle-free operation.

Consumers with smaller yards or those who only need to trim occasionally should consider the Black & Decker NST2018 Grass Hog 12-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Electric String Trimmer with 2 Batteries, which has also been highly reviewed by owners.  It features a wide 12-inch cutting head, automatic feed spool, one-button transformation from trimmer to edger and two long lasting 18-volt batteries.