This review has been updated 5 times since it was first published in March of 2019. If a lawn mower is the bread and butter of your yard maintenance equipment, a quality weed eater serves as a tasty side dish. These electric string trimmers can access tight areas that are inaccessible to a mower, such as the edges alongside flower beds, the space beneath hedges, and around fences and mailboxes. We’ve included options suitable for anything from overgrown grass to thick vegetation. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the review.
10. Black+Decker LSTE525
If you go with the Black+Decker LSTE525 (around $164), you’ll get a solidly built machine that will make quick work of tall grass and coarse weeds. It’s a practical choice for residential applications, such as tidying up the edges of paths and flower beds.
- Cutting swath of 12 inches
- Durable plastic components
- Disappointing battery life
9. Greenworks BST4000
A well-placed variable speed trigger on the Greenworks BST4000 (around $75) allows you to transition from tufts of overgrown grass to thick, unwanted vegetation without a problem. It charges fairly quickly, though it could use a shoulder strap.
- Well-balanced design
- Helpful battery life indicator
- Head angle does not adjust
8. Craftsman CMESTA900
For a rather compact, lightweight model, the Craftsman CMESTA900 (about $52) delivers a workmanlike performance, with a sturdy trim guard and an adjustable handle that both help make the job as painless as possible. It offers a combination of torque and maneuverability.
- Not too noisy while in operation
- Spool is easy to change
- Requires an extension cord
7. Worx WG170
No matter the size of the user or the remoteness of the nooks and crannies you’re trying to access, the Worx WG170 (about $111) offers the versatility you’ll need. Its handle can be adjusted to seven settings, while its head can be rotated to six positions.
- 2 resilient rubber wheels
- Smooth telescoping shaft
- Built-in extra spool holder
6. Ego Power+ Trimmer
Before you fire up the Ego Power+ Trimmer (about $119), make sure you’re wearing closed-toe shoes, long sleeves and eye protection. This high-velocity machine is no toy, and you don’t want to become a victim of fast-flying debris. Its aluminum body features a comfortable grip.
- Backed by a 5-year warranty
- Highly efficient brushless motor
- Charges very quickly
5. Black+Decker LST136
A practical option for ensuring that your suburban property always looks fresh and clean, the Black+Decker LST136 (about $131) is both lightweight and well-balanced. It may not offer overwhelming power, but it’ll vanquish your average overgrown patch in a hurry.
- Converts from trimmer to edger
- Has a useful auxiliary handle
- Super precise around trees and posts
4. Makita XRU02Z
On a single charge, the Makita XRU02Z (around $99) can operate at full throttle for up to 45 minutes, which is plenty of time to whack a typical yard. It has a well-designed spool system, and the string that comes with it is stout and durable.
- Runs at 78000 rotations per minute
- 8 inches of length adjustment
- Head rotates 180 degrees
3. Worx WG154
Transitioning the Worx WG154 (about $60) from its trimmer configuration to its edger setup requires only a few seconds and minimal mechanical knowledge, allowing you to focus on tidying up your lawn instead of fiddling with your equipment.
- Nice value for its versatility
- Cutting width is adjustable
- Front handle offers reliable control
2. Makita XRU09Z
The Makita XRU09Z (about $180) is a heavy-duty trimmer, complete with a robust brushless motor, two speed settings, and dependable batteries. It’s surprisingly quiet for such a forceful model, and it provides enough precision for detailed work, too.
- Can run for 1 hour straight
- Impressive amount of torque
- Stays cool during extended use
1. DeWalt DCST990H1
With a wide, 15-inch cutting path, the DeWalt DCST990H1 (about $286) enables you to carve smoothly through thick vegetation and tracts of tall grass that are in desperate need of some love and attention. It’s comparable in performance and speed to a gas-powered model.
- Strong metal gear case
- Minimal vibrations in your hands
- Long-term durability
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