10 Best Garden Strimmers (Review) In 2022

Adrienne started her professional life as a gardener at her local parks department and went on to train at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh where she was the first female student on the prestigious and world-renowned horticultural course run by the Botanic garden. An experienced and award-winning garden writer and past editor of some of Britain’s favourite gardening magazines, Adrienne has for over 30 years, inspired gardeners with a breadth of gardening know-how plus creative and decorative ideas. One of her main aims is to make gardening accessible, even to the smallest green fingers, with her clear advice and straightforward step-by-step instructions. Adrienne loves to travel and has visited, given talks and met ordinary home gardeners in far flung places like China, South Africa, Philippines and Caribbean as well as the UK.
- The Best Garden Strimmer
- 1. BLACK+DECKER 14" Auto Feed Garden Strimmer
- 2. WORX WG154 Edger 10" Cordless Strimmer
- 3. CRAFTSMAN V20 WEEDWACKER String Trimmer & Edger
- 4. Greenworks G-MAX Cordless Strimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Pack
- 5. BLACK+DECKER Powercommand Li-On Strimmer
- 6. Toro Corded 14" Electric Strimmer & Edger
- 7. PowerSmart Cordless Garden Strimmer with Easy Feed
- 8. Husqvarna Battery Straight Shaft String Trimmer
- 9. Greenworks 18" 10 Amp Corded Garden Strimmer
- 10. WORX PowerShare 12" Cordless Strimmer & Edger
A good grass trimmer can add the finishing touches to your garden, giving you a beautifully manicured lawn. The strimmer is able to tidy up edges and small areas that a mower can't reach.
Garden strimmers come in all shapes and sizes, with different power options and with either plastic blades or string Whatever your lawn requirements, there is bound to be a model to suit your needs. If you are passionate about taking perfect care of your garden and you already own a hedge trimmer and a lawn mower, whether it's robot lawn mower, corded lawn mower or a cordless lawn mower, a good strimmer makes a perfect addition to your garden gadgets.
Wondering what is the difference between a garden trimmer, a grass trimmer, and a strimmer? Absolutely nothing, just different terms for the same tool! We look at the best garden strimmers available and answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you keep your garden tidy.
The Best Garden Strimmer
1. BLACK+DECKER 14″ Auto Feed Garden Strimmer





Key Features
14-inch cutting diameter
6.5amp motor
Corded grass trimmer
3.19lbs
Automatic spool feeding
Cord retention system
8000 rpm
Our best garden strimmer is a Black and Decker corded string model that operates on a 6.5 amp motor. The BLACK+DECKER 14″ Auto Feed Garden Strimmer is incredibly easy to assemble and operate, with an auto spool feeding function meaning you don’t even have to worry about winding the line to the appropriate length. It comes with two handles and is very lightweight so you can move it around the garden quite comfortably.
There is no adjustable or telescopic handle, and you will need to invest in a compatible extension cord, but for the cost, it gets the job done extremely efficiently. Fast operation with a reasonable cutting width, although it lacks a powerful motor to tackle heavy-duty trimming.
Pros
Lightweight
Automatic spool feeding
Simple to assemble
Very affordable
Cons
Only suitable for light use
2. WORX WG154 Edger 10″ Cordless Strimmer



Key Features
Convert trimmer easily to an edger
Convert the cutting path for a wider cut
Fixed ergonomic front handle
Charging time: ≈ 5 hours
automatic single line feed
Rotating head for easy edger conversion
20volt battery
10-inch path width
4.2lbs
The WORX WG154 Edger 10″ Cordless Strimmer is a very lightweight, versatile model, that works best for light trimming and edging. If you already have appliances from the Worx PowerShare range, you can use the battery and charger with this trimmer. The battery life has mixed reviews, so if you plan to trim for more than about 25 minutes without a break, then it could be worthwhile having a spare battery.
To use this as a lawn edger, you can simply turn it off, flip the head around and restart. Incredibly easy to get a tidy lawn with neat edges. Other ease of use features for this product include the spacer that protects for your flowers when cutting, which can be removed if you prefer, and an automatic line feeder, operated by a switch in the handle.
Pros
Compatible with other Worx battery models
Automatic line feeder
Charger included
Doubles up as an edger
Adjustable spacer to protect flowers
Cons
Fixed shaft type
The drawback of this Worx strimmer is that it only has a fixed shaft type, meaning the handle can’t be adjusted according to your height.
3. CRAFTSMAN V20 WEEDWACKER String Trimmer & Edger




Key Features
2 Speed Setting for more power or more runtime
Lithium-ion battery powered
Used for both edging or trimming
Telescoping pole
Adjustable handle
Automatic line advance
13-inch cutting diameter
3 Year Limited Warranty
Our best value choice is a CRAFTSMAN V20 WEEDWACKER String Trimmer & Edger that can also function as an edger if required. As it is part of the V20 range, this means that you can interchange the battery from other models with this appliance. If you already own V20 products, no need to buy another charger with this tool.
There is an automatic feeder, so no need to alter the spool yourself and it has a ‘Turn to Edge’ function. ‘Turn to Edge’ means that you quite simply flip the appliance on its side, and it works as an edger instead of a traditional trimmer. It also has an adjustable handle and telescopic pole so you can change the length and angles to best suit your requirements.
Pros
Automatic feeding
Edger and trimmer combined
Ergonomic telescopic pole
Compatible with other Craftsman V20 tools
Cons
Low battery life
The Craftsman has a relatively powerful motor thanks to the battery, and the two setting function means you can use it at a low speed to save battery life. If you use it on the high power, you may be disappointed by how long it runs.
4. Greenworks G-MAX Cordless Strimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Pack




Key Features
45 minutes of run time when fully charged
Battery and charger included
Axial fan design delivers 110 mph
Lightweight and easy to use
12inch cut path
Dual-line cutting
40V 2Ah Li-Ion Battery and charger included
12.45lbs
The Greenworks G-MAX Cordless Strimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Pack can run effectively for up to 45 minutes on 2AH batteries. A full charge takes just less than an hour. As with similar models we have reviewed, this is part of a series of battery-powered tools. If you already have a lithium-ion battery or charger from the Greenworks GMAX range, then you can use them with this tool, saving yourself money or giving you a spare battery as a back-up.
The blower function of this model is pretty powerful at 110 miles per hour and works exceptionally well when clearing leaves from hard surfaces. This Greenworks trimmer is robust and comes with a variable speed trigger to give you an extra boost when tackling tough areas. It is very lightweight and has an automatic feeder for a 0.65 diameter line. This is quite thin, so you might find that it is breaking quickly and you go through a lot of lines in a short period.
Pros
Powerful
Battery run time
Dual cutting
Strong leaf blower
Good value
Cons
Cost
Thin string
The Greenworks trimmer has quite a high price point, so if you are not likely to use the leaf blower then there are more affordable options available. But for a combination pack, the price is reasonable.
5. BLACK+DECKER Powercommand Li-On Strimmer





Key Features
Switch from trimmer to wheeled edger easily
0.065-inch line diameter
2-speed control
12-inch cutting path
Adjustable height
20volts lithium-ion battery
6.3lbs
Nominal voltage is 18volts
Advance your line by pushing a button
Part of the 20 Volt MAX System
Part of the POWERCOMMAND Family
This trimmer is part of the Powercommand family from Black and Decker, designed to ‘command and conquer your yard’. All tools in this range come with a power boost option for stubborn areas and an easy feed line feature. You can also swap the head of this trimmer with the Powercommand hedge trimmer or sweeper if you buy them separately. The BLACK+DECKER Powercommand Li-on Strimmer is a relatively powerful option, despite having a thin line and only one trim line.
It is compatible with other 20Volt Max tools, so the batteries and chargers are interchangeable, so you can always have a spare fully charged. The battery will run for 20-40 minutes before needing to be recharged, but this depends on whether you use the high-speed or low-speed setting. It does take some time for the battery to recharge (over 3 hours), hence why it is useful to have an additional one ready to go! There is also no battery life indicator.
Pros
Adjustable height and handle
Easy line advance feature
Compatible with other 20volt Max tools
Battery and charger included
Edger option
Cons
Thin line and only one trim line
Battery life
The two speeds mean that you can go at 5500 rpm, which will give you longer battery time, or 7200 rpm to get more power, but less run time. Thanks to the adjustable handle and telescopic shaft, it is comfortable to use as a trimmer.
Less so as an edger. The auto-feed system is one of the most effective and to access the edger function, you simply turn the appliance over, so this trimmer scores very highly for ease of use.
6. Toro Corded 14″ Electric Strimmer & Edger





Key Features
Corded electric trimmer/edger
5 amp motor
14-inch dual-line cutting head
auto-feed trim line
0.065inch line
Switch from trimmer to edger
Telescoping shaft and adjustable handle
6.3lbs
2-year warranty
Our budget pick is a corded electric strimmer from Toro. The Toro Corded 14″ Electric Strimmer & Edger has a large cutting path for a corded grass trimmer and is fitted with a dual-line, making cutting more efficient. The 5 amp motor makes it suitable for cutting through tough weeds as well as long grass. It would benefit further from having adjustable speed settings for more delicate areas.
It transforms into an edger with the push of a button, and while in this mode there is a small guide wheel that helps you to maintain straight edges and takes some of the weight off you. This guide also lifts up if you need to get around small obstacles such as furniture or rocks. Fitted with a telescopic shaft, an adjustable assist handle, and weighing in at just over 6lbs, this model is relatively easy to maneuver.
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Pros
Telescopic shaft
Adjustable assist handle
Auto fee trim line
Guide wheel for edging
Large cutting path
Cons
You have to keep pausing to use the auto-feed trigger
One speed setting
7. PowerSmart Cordless Garden Strimmer with Easy Feed




Key Features
36V Lithium-Ion battery string trimmer
3.0Ah battery capacity
11.7 pounds
30cm cutting path
7500RPM
Automatic spool feeder
Line diameter: 0. 065 inches
1.5 hour charge time
Two-year warranty
The PowerSmart Cordless Garden Strimmer with Easy Feed is a single-line trimmer that runs with a 36volt lithium-ion battery. It has a 12-inch cutting path and a generous speed of 7500 RPM for efficient cutting, although it is a few pounds heavier than similar cordless models, making it less easy to move around for long periods.
The auto spool function works well, and changing the line is very simple, even though the instructions are pretty vague on this topic and the initial assembly. The battery does take a little bit of trial and error to install it correctly, but it is worth persevering to get it right because this powerful little motor lasts for quite a long time and charges quickly in just 1.5 hours. Considerably less than many competitors. There is no edging function, so the PowerSmart isn’t a very versatile option, but it is powerful for a cordless grass trimmer and performs adequately.
Pros
Powerful battery
Adjustable handle
Charger and battery included
Cons
No edger function
Single line
Heavier than other cordless trimmers
8. Husqvarna Battery Straight Shaft String Trimmer






Key Features
Save mode to maximize your run time
Brushless electric motor
Battery voltage – 36.5 V
Telescopic shaft
77 decibels
2-year Warranty
14-in. Cutting path
5500 rpm
8.9 lbs
Our premium pick for the best grass trimmer comes from Husqvarna, a brand well known for producing high-quality chainsaws and garden tools.
If you are wondering why this model is considerably more expensive than other models, it comes down the construction. The Husqvarna Battery Straight Shaft String Trimmer has a brushless motor, which preserves motor life while operating extremely efficiently and quietly. There is a ‘save’ feature to allow you to operate at a lower speed while preserving battery life, and the 36.5volt battery gives you more than enough power to tackle tough areas at high speed. On average it runs for over 90minutes on one charge.
Pros
Battery and charger included
Quiet
Brushless motor
Save mode
Battery run time
Cons
Cost (although if you have other Husqvarna tools, you don’t need to buy the battery and charger)
No automatic feeder
Telescopic pole not long enough if you are over 6ft tall
The telescopic shaft and excellent weight balance also make it comfortable and easy to operate for long periods even though it isn’t the lightest machine on the market. The Husqvarna does not have an automatic line feeder but uses a bump feed mechanism, so you will need to press the base of the head to release more string, but this is easy to do. The head also accommodates string of up to 2mm, so highly versatile if you have thick areas to deal with.
A durable dual-line grass trimmer that is easy to use and suitable for both small and larger garden areas. A few reviewers who are over 6ft tool have stated that it is not the most comfortable for them, as they need to bend over, so not the best tool for you if you have a large stature.
9. Greenworks 18″ 10 Amp Corded Garden Strimmer





Key Features
10Amp motor
straight shaft
0.80 dual-line bump feed
Cord lock feature
18″ cutting path
Cushioned grip
10lbs
Quick-connect coupler for easy attachment changes
This Greenworks 10 Amp Corded Garden Strimmer has an 18-inch cutting path, which is exceptionally large for an electric trimmer. This is a great machine with a long shaft, a dual-line head, and a powerful motor. Combine these with the cutting path and it can tackle large areas of lawn and weeds in no time. Due to the long, non-adjustable straight shaft, you may get the best use out of this trimmer if you are slightly on the taller side.
There is no auto line feeder; however, the line feeds smoothly into the head when you just lightly bump it on the ground or push it with your hand. While the Greenworks 21142 is not the most versatile option, it is compatible with attachments, from both Greenworks and other popular brands. This means you have the option of using it as a leaf blower, hedge trimmer, edger, pole saw or cultivator if you invest in the attachments.
Pros
Large cutting path
Strong line
Dual-line
Compatible with Greenworks attachments
Variable trigger speed
Cons
A lot of handle vibration
Shaft is not adjustable
10. WORX PowerShare 12″ Cordless Strimmer & Edger




Key Features
2-in-1 trimmer and edger
Instant line feed
2 x 20V Power Share MaxLithium batteries included
Rubberized wheels
Head tilts 90°
Spacer guard
7600 rpm
12″ cutting diameter
5.3 lbs machine weight
0.065″ line diameter
The WORX PowerShare 12″ Cordless Strimmer & Edger is a multi-functional tool with a range of useful, extra features. It doubles up as an edger and has rubber guide wheels for precise edge cutting. When being used as a grass trimmer, it has a space guard to protect plants, but this guard can be lifted to get close to obstacles or work in tight areas.
If you are looking for a user-friendly model, then this is one of the best cordless options available. It weighs only 5.3lbs, giving it excellent maneuverability, a telescopic shaft, and an ergonomic handle with 7 different positions. The Command Feed system also means that you get more line at the touch of a button. For operation, this requires a 20V lithium-ion battery, which is included and is compatible with WORX Power Share tools. It is not the most powerful motor and the run time is short (20-30 minutes), it also takes 3 hours to charge. Best suited for small to medium lawns and light usage – it won’t tackle tough weeds well!
Pros
Trimmer and edger in one
Free spools for life
Guidance wheels for edging
High speed
Ergonomic handle
Cons
Battery run time
Long charging time
Features To Consider With Garden Strimmers
Cutting Width
The cutting width is also referred to as a cutting path. The larger the cutting width, the more grass you will trim in one session. If you have large areas to clear then a bigger cutting width is best. Grass trimmers have a range of 20cm to 30cm cutting width, although you may find some professional models are up to 40cm.
Ease Of Use
Numerous features should be considered when you are looking at the ease of use of a strimmer. If you want to be able to cut vertically and tidy edges, then a rotating head will make your life easier. A telescopic shaft handle means you can adjust it according to your height, again improving the ease of use. An adjustable angle head is one of the best features to have if you need to strim around or under garden furniture or ornaments.
Multi-functionality
Some of the more versatile trimmers can do much more than just cut long grass. As you would expect, more functions usually mean a higher price tag so consider if this is important for you.
The most common additional function you get with a trimmer is an edger, accessible by turning the tool to a different angle. You can also get models that are compatible with a leaf blower or a hedge trimmer attachment.
The best cordless grass trimmer is often part of a branded range, meaning that while the tool itself isn't multi-functional, the battery is. As a result, you don't have to buy multiple chargers or batteries for each tool, you can use the same one for a trimmer, chain saw, blower, and many other appliances.
For more useful reviews for products to enchance your garden, check out our guides of the best lawn dethatchers, snow blowers, chainsaw sharpeners, weed torch and grass shears.
Noise Level
All grass trimmers will generate an amount of noise. However, all the models we looked at are electric, which are considerably quieter than gas-powered models. There is little difference between noise levels of corded and cordless grass trimmers, but if you need to have a quiet operation, then check the decibel levels before purchasing.
Power Source
There are three types of garden strimmers; petrol, electric (corded), and cordless.
Petrol fueled strimmers are best for tackling large areas or thick weeds because they are more powerful. They can be a little difficult for very light or delicate work, but they are a great option if you are going to be out of reach of an electric power source for long periods.
Electric or corded strimmers are the most affordable option available, best suited for quite light tasks, and are very easy to use. They are lightweight, but you will have to be connected to a power cable at all times.
Cordless grass trimmers are often considered more versatile, as they come in forms to suit both heavy-duty and lighter gardening tasks. They are usually the most expensive type of grass trimmer thanks to their convenience, but if you are planning on tidying large areas, you need to factor in battery charging time.
Shaft Type (Bent/Straight)
The shaft of a grass trimmer is the long pole between the handle and the cutting head.
Curved shaft string trimmers are most suited for smaller gardens. They have an arched drive cable and a shorter shaft than the straighter models, making them easy to maneuver and store. They are also often lighter in weight.
Straight shaft grass trimmers help you to reach under trees and shrubbery easily, so best suited if you have low hanging bushes. They usually have a heavier line than the bent version, and their cable may last longer as it is under less strain. If you have a large area, or tough weeds to deal with, a straight shaft is the better option.
Garden Strimmer FAQ
Q: How long do battery operated strimmers last?
The run time of a strimmer will vary from tool to tool. The shortest run time is around 20 minutes, and the longest is about 60 minutes.
Q: How can I prevent my strimmer line from breaking?
A strimmer line will break when it comes into contact with something hard to stop it from getting caught around the object. It is also designed to break when it gets too thin. You cannot stop this from happening for safety reasons.
If you think that your line is breaking too often, double-check the areas that you are tidying, in case you are inadvertently hitting a hidden object. Then check the quality of the line - some cheaper, lower quality lines will thin quickly, breaking more easily.
Sources
How to Use a String Trimmer Properly, Without Breaking the Line! - Dengarden
Strimmer Troubles? Here's a Quick Fix! - Instructables