This review has been updated 5 times since it was first published in May of 2019. If your property is overgrown with vegetation, or the terrain is too rugged for a standard lawn mower, that’s when you reach for one of these wheeled string trimmers. Compared to conventional handheld models, they have larger, more powerful engines and most are designed for heavy-duty weed whacking. Note that they can throw debris with a lot of force, so make sure to always wear eye protection. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the review.
6. Southland SWSTM4317
The cutting head assembly on the Southland SWSTM4317 (about $233) swivels up to 20 degrees, so you can find the perfect position for trimming along walls, fences, or other obstacles. It accepts two sizes of line, enabling you to choose the best for your task.
- Adjustable cutting height
- Smaller engine than other options
- Suitable for light-duty work only
5. Husqvarna HU675HWT
You’ll pay a bit more for the Husqvarna HU675HWT (about $363) than for some other options, but its reliable and beefy Briggs & Stratton motor will provide many hours of service if you care for it properly. Plus, you can disengage the trimmer action while leaving the engine running.
- Starts with just one pull
- Can even cut small trees and brush
- Plastic shroud prone to breakage
4. Dirty Hand Tools 101085
The Dirty Hand Tools 101085 (appx. $276) features a 14-gauge steel deck, which means it can stand up to lots of punishment on properties overgrown with foliage. Its cutting head supports not only trimming line, but also 4-inch blades for ripping through thick weeds and brush.
- Ideal for hilly and rocky ground
- Easy to put together
- Starter assembly prone to failure
3. Earthquake 28463
The big, never-flat wheels on the Earthquake 28463 (about $851) make it easy to maneuver through tall weeds or over uneven ground, which means you can use it just about anywhere. It has a one-piece, seamless deck that minimizes vibrations, and a surprisingly quiet 150cc motor.
- Handle adjusts without tools
- Five-year warranty
- Variable cutting heights
2. Southland SWFT15022
The Southland SWFT15022 (appx. $278) has a vibration-dampening foam cover on the handle that makes it comfortable to use. Its quad-line trimmer head cuts down tall grass and weeds, even in spots that are hard to reach with a standard mower.
- Handle folds for compact storage
- Perfect for uneven terrain
- Cuts both fresh and dry vegetation
1. Remington RM1159
With its powerful 159-cc engine and a 22-inch cutting swath, the Remington RM1159 (about $330) is ready to tackle the toughest jobs. It features 14-inch wheels that make it easy to maneuver around obstacles and an offset trimmer head that helps get into those hard-to-reach places.
- 4-cycle motor starts easily
- Head height is adjustable
- Changing the line is quick and easy
4. Husqvarna 580BTS
From one of the oldest companies in the world, the Husqvarna 580BTS (around $579) lives up to its manufacturer’s reputation by outperforming nearly everything else on the market. It’s intended for commercial use, as indicated by its high cost.
- 2-stage air intake filter
- Low-emissions x-torq engine
- Long per-tank runtime
3. Ego Power+ LB6000
Surprisingly effective for an electric model, the 5 amp hour battery pack in the Ego Power+ LB6000 (around $738) is compatible with a line of well-regarded cordless tools. Achieving air speeds of up to 145 mph, it’s a worthy competitor to a gas-powered model.
- Adjustable harness and waist belt
- Moves up to 600 cfm in turbo mode
- Only 64 db noise even at full tilt
2. Husqvarna 150BT
At roughly half the price of the heavy-hitting models, the Husqvarna 150BT (around $297) is perfect for the homeowner or part-time landscaper who doesn’t want to spend a fortune, but has a yard full of debris to clean up. And it actually moves air faster than its more expensive cousins.
- Is easy to start
- An efficient 50cc engine
- Lighter than most gas-powered models
1. Makita 4-Stroke
Leaves don’t stand a chance with the Makita 4-Stroke (appx. $546) strapped to your back. Its powerful 75cc engine is highly efficient and meets EPA standards for exhaust emissions, and it offers plenty of ventilation to keep hot air away from your body.
- Comfortable padded straps
- Reaches air speeds of 206 mph
- No need for mixing oil and fuel
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