The Dewalt 60V MAX string trimmer was delivered to my house a few weeks ago. I tested out this weed eater, putting it through the gauntlet, to see if it was truly worth the hype.
This Dewalt string trimmer review is really part of a broader set of string trimmers that I put to the test to find the best string trimmer on the planet. You can follow along on our YouTube channel, The Lawn Review.
Bottom Line: The Dewalt 60V Max string trimmer was shockingly powerful and felt very “solid”. This one has all the features I recommend in a weed eater. Grab it from Home Depot for a great price.
Dewalt 60V MAX String Trimmer: Testing each feature
I have a process when it comes to reviewing a string trimmer. I always check for power, durability, usability, and battery performance. My methods can be unusual, but I think they give you a good look into what it’s like to use this string trimmer before you buy it.
The Dewalt 60V Max String Trimmer has a powerful cutting swath
Dewalt’s 60V MAX string trimmer has the ability to level up to a 17 inch cutting swath. Folks, the larger the cutting swath, the more powerful a string trimmer is. The normal range for a battery powered weed eater is somewhere around 12-15 inches.
At 17 inches, the Dewalt 60V Max string trimmer is nearly unrivaled. I believe EGO has a string trimmer that can cut this wide but to find that width anywhere else, you would need to check out a gas-powered string trimmer.
One recommendation I have for this Dewalt String Trimmer: replace the string trimmer line right away. I don’t like the rounded, twisty kind that comes with it – I recommend using the GrassKicker weed eater string that we created specifically to replace the stock kind.
Dewalt’s 60V Max string trimmer has a durable brushless motor
One thing I love about the Dewalt products I have reviewed, like the Dewalt 60V blower and Dewalt self-propelled mower, are the fact that they come with brushless motors. Brushless motors are basically newer, higher quality electric motors that use less friction to generate power from the battery.
The Dewalt 60V MAX string trimmer has a brushless motor – meaning it has a longer run time, cooler running motor, and longer life. Dewalt backs this up with a 3 year limited warranty and 90 day money back guarantee. Pretty sweet deal!
The Dewalt 60V trimmer has a ton of convenient features
One of my favorite features of the Dewalt 60V Max string trimmer is that it has universal attachment capabilities. In fact, it is one of the best string trimmers with attachments on the market. Universal attachment capabilities mean that you can use any universal attachment from other brands and probably that random one you have sitting in your garage.
Not only does it have attachment capabilities, but this Dewalt 60V string trimmer has a variable speed trigger with two speed settings and a molded rubber grip and D-loop handle. These features make the string trimmer easy to hold for long periods of time. The two different high and low speed setting adjustments can be used to amp up the RPMs on this trimmer, though I would probably never take it off high.
The battery performance is as expected
The 3 Ah battery on this Dewalt 60V Max String Trimmer is pretty good. For a battery-powered tool, you get decent run time – definitely enough to trim a yard that is about a ½ acre on a single charge.
Battery performance on a string trimmer varies wildly because of different thicknesses of grass, starting and stopping, and whether or not you use the trimmer to edge. Under normal circumstances, I think you could use this string trimmer for about 40-45 minutes before the battery dies.
Lastly, this 60v Max battery series from Dewalt has a bunch of other tools you can use with it, including their blowers, chainsaws, and lawn mowers. You can save a ton of money buying the tool-only version of their tools and using one battery.
Final review after personal testing: Dewalt 60V String Trimmer
The Dewalt 60V Max string trimmer is a solid, powerful tool that will absolutely crush grass in your yard. Don’t overlook this string trimmer just because Dewalt is mostly known for their hand tools. I have tested dozens of battery powered string trimmers and this one is up at the top of the list.
The Kobalt 24V String Trimmer attachment system is not only a super powerful weed eater, but capable of carrying some great attachments like a dethatcher, edger, and tons more.
Kobalt power head handle looking nice!
I got my hands on this Kobalt 24V string trimmer system and put it to work, testing it around my yard and cranking all the different attachments.
Bottom Line:The Kobalt 24V string trimmer attachment system is a surprisingly solid, versatile system that comes in at an unbelievably low price point. If you are looking for a great alternative to some pricier systems, this is the perfect option. You can grab it at Lowe’s for a great price.
Testing the Kobalt 24V Max String Trimmer system
Once I got the Kobalt 24V Max String Trimmer out of the box, assembling it was a breeze. This comes as a split shaft, meaning it is already assembled and folded in the box. You simply snap it into place and put on the debris guard (if you want) and you’re ready to go. Here was my experience using this trimmer.
The Kobalt 24V Max string trimmer has nice cutting power
The 14 inch cutting swath on the Kobalt 24V Max string trimmer system is what I call the “Goldilocks” zone. This cutting swath isn’t so large that it reaches commercial landscaping territory, demanding a ton of juice from the battery and motor.
Replace that string!
But at 15 inches, the Kobalt 24V Max trimmer is extremely powerful for any residential job. One thing I always do when I get a new string trimmer is to change out the weed eater string from its stock version to the kind I personally made, called GrassKicker. We designed this to be durable, sharp, and highly visible.
When it comes to weed eaters, cutting swath is synonymous with power. Once I had the new string on here, the full 15 inch length was an absolute monster and a huge upgrade. The Kobalt 24V string trimmer has enough power for just about any homeowner (unless you live in a dense forest or have > 2 acres of land).
Kobalt’s 24V trimmer is super durable
One thing I love about Kobalt’s 24V Max series string trimmer system is that it comes with a brushless motor. I’ve written extensively about brushless motors on lawn tools and am a strong proponent of making sure you have a brushless motor.
Luckily, the Kobalt 24V Max string trimmer has one of these motors, making it highly durable, giving it more torque, and a long life. And with all battery powered weed eaters, the Kobalt trimmer has no maintenance at all on the motor and will fire right up whenever you simply press the button.
The rest of this string trimmer has a super solid build – something that shocked me given the relatively low price. But the construction on this, especially around where the triggers are, felt solid and reliable and like it could last me for several years.
The Kobalt string trimmer attachment system is universal
My Kobalt 24V Max string trimmer just came with the multi-head and string trimmer head. Since this string trimmer system is universal, I had a ton of other attachments I could pop on easily from my experience with other attachment capable systems.
I loved that I could easily pop on an edger attachment and have a beastly battery lawn edger. Then I could grab a hedge trimmer attachment and have an extended hedge trimmer. Attachment capabilities on this trimmer make it a Swiss Army knife tool that not only saves a ton of money, but makes storage way easier.
One attachment that I got separately because I had never seen it before is the Kobalt Dethatcher attachment. And I got this attachment only because it seemed strange. Usually lawn dethatchers are oriented like push mowers, so imagining using this with one hand across my whole yard just felt…awkward.
Well my imagination was correct. This Kobalt dethatching attachment was definitely awkward haha. I could see this attachment being awesome for small areas but would go crazy if I did this all across my lawn.
The Kobalt 24V MAX battery system has tons of tools
One thing you need to be careful about before buying this kobalt string trimmer is the difference between 24V and 24V MAX. In many battery lines, these two are surprisingly and unfortunately INCOMPATIBLE.
On the bright side, Kobalt’s 24V Max system is huge – spanning dozens of lawn tools and even more hand power tools. From an investment perspective – I love only having to buy one or two batteries and one charger. This declutters my garage and keeps costs down when I buy the tool-only version of other tools.
Kobalt 24V Max string trimmer system is inexpensive compared to others
This string trimmer sells exclusively at Lowe’s (just like all Kobalt stuff). At under $200 for the system and weed eater attachment plus batteries and charger – you’re getting a steal. If you already have a 24V Max battery, the price drops to well below $150. Holy guacamole.
Final review: Kobalt 24V MAX string trimmer
I was pleasantly surprised by the Kobalt 24V Max attachment capable string trimmer. Sadly, I judged this string trimmer by its low price. But when I fired the string trimmer up and got to work, I ate my words.
This string trimmer gets the stamp of approval from TLR.
Greenworks 60V 16 inch weed eater is a great combination of quality and affordability. Not only is this great for homeowners, but the cutting swath on this weed eater is right around the size a commercial landscaper would use. Not bad.
I’ve had the pleasure of using a ton of Greenworks tools and I’m a bit of a weed eater snob. So when I got my hands on the 60V 16 inch weed eater from Greenworks, I was excited to run it into the ground (literally).
Bottom Line: The Greenworks 60V string trimmer is a great option because it is attachment capable, has a brushless motor, and a robust battery line. You can grab it on Amazon here or from the Greenworks website.
Let me break down for you each of the elements I put to the test on this weed eater, what that actually means for you when you’re using it, and some pros and cons of each feature. Here we go!
Greenworks 60V Power output and cutting swath
One thing I love about this Greenworks 60V weed eater is that the cutting swath (or width from one end of the string to the other) is 16 inches. After the 15 inch mark, you start getting into professional landscaper territory.
First off, that 16-inch cutting swath is a game-changer. Not only does the extra width allow you to do some mowing in tighter areas that can’t be reached with a lawn tractor or zero turn mower, but allows you to do some serious edging. This not only speeds up the trimming process but also reduces the need to go over the same spot multiple times.
When I compare it to those budget models with smaller cutting swaths, usually around 12 inches or even less, you really notice the difference. With the smaller ones, you have to make more passes to get the same area done, and that can be annoying and require more work.
Plus, having that extra width can make a big difference when tackling larger yards or areas with a lot of edging. It’s a breeze to maintain a neat and manicured look without spending all day doing it.
Attachment capabilities of Greenworks
Another thing I love about this string trimmer is that it has the ability to swap out attachments. I have the edger attachment and the weed eater attachment, but you can also get a pole saw and a hedge trimmer attachment. That makes this thing a pretty sweet multi-tool.
Durability of the Greenworks 60V 16 inch weed eater
When it comes to durability in the battery powered tool space, what you’re really looking for is the efficiency and longevity provided by a brushless motor. Fortunately, this Greenworks 60V weed eater has a sweet brushless motor that is super durable.
A brushless weed eater offers several key advantages over its brushed counterpart. Firstly, it delivers greater efficiency and power, making it capable of handling tough yard tasks like thick weeds and overgrown grass without losing performance. Additionally, brushless motors have a longer lifespan due to fewer friction-impacted parts and require less maintenance. They generate less heat and operate quietly, meaning no more waking up your neighbors (ahem…MY NEIGHBORS).
Greenwork has mastered brushless lawn equipment and raised the standard for everyone else in the industry. They even have a brushless electric pressure washer with a 10 year warranty….
If you don’t already have a battery, then you can get the full kit and kaboodle from Tractor Supply Co (we have no affiliation) for a really good price as well.
Overall – I think the Greenworks 60V weed eater is an incredible deal given that it has all the cutting power and durability you could want at a super competitive price.
Overall Review: Greenworks 60V 16 inch String Trimmer
I have to take my hat off to Greenworks here for producing a really high quality weed eater. The 60V line isn’t their most popular, but it does have some super nice tools included. I like this weed eater because it is brushless, has a serious cutting swath, is easy to use, and is attachment-capable. I recommend grabbing it from Amazon or wherever else you can get it.
Why we created The Lawn Review
The reason we started the Lawn Review in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And they aren’t cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
My experience using battery powered weed eaters
I have used and written about a LOT of tools. In fact, I’ve done over 250 posts on this website and even more Youtube reviews using these tools. But I have a special place in my heart for battery powered weed eaters. Battery powered weed eaters are tools of finesse and are some of the most advanced tools in the electric world.
Needless to say, I’ve used a TON of these. Some of my favorites are listed here below, but I would estimate I’ve used battery powered weed eaters for well over 400 hours. That’s a lot.
What to look for in a battery powered weed whacker
Cordless weed eaters come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:
Feel – Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. If you can, get as many adjustable pieces as possible to make this customizable. It doesn’t seem like you use a weed eater for a long time, but the work is precision work that requires a steady hand and focus.
Motor – brushless motors are king here. They are longer lasting and more durable. Regular brushed motors are fine, too. The key difference here is that brushless motors use magnets, instead of friction, to power the motor. This means less heat, more durability, and a longer life. Brushed motors will still do the job, however they tend to have a shorter life. Brushless motors are relatively new, so if you have had an electric tool back in the day, it was probably brushed.
Interchangeable batteries – Get a dang tool that has batteries that you can use with other batteries. C’mon people – save money by doing this! You don’t have to keep buying new battery sets. There are a lot of tool companies that have batteries that work with a ton of different tools. But some of these companies have a bunch of different battery types. Be careful!
Curved vs Straight shaft – I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control and are much longer than curved shafts. Curved shafts are good for clearing out a small piece of land unable to be mowed. But if you want to actually do some good trimming and edging, a straight shaft is much better. Curved shafts are difficult to maneuver and to create a straight line for edging.
The differences between a string trimmer and an edger are often confusing. In fact, it isn’t that common to see even professional landscapers using an edger.
So why do I need one?
I have an edger attachment on my Ryobi weed eater and I LOVE it. But I don’t use it every time I mow. Could I live without it? No.
But some people can. Let me explain further.
How to instantly improve your weed eater
Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.
Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.
With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.
The Difference Between A String Trimmer And Edger
A string trimmer is used to cut pieces of grass missed by your mower whereas an edger is designed to cut a border around your yard.
The differences seem stark, but many people try to use a string trimmer to edge around their yard. String trimmers are much more versatile than edgers in that they can be used around the edges of a yard like an edger, but can also cut through thick brush and tall grass.
String Trimmers and Edgers are often sold in combo kits or multi-tool attachment heads. These allow you to buy one power head (like my EGO multi-tool) and change out the attachments, saving you money.
While many folks buy string trimmers as a standalone item, it is more rare to buy an edger-only tool that is not part of an attachment system.
Can A String Trimmer Be Used As An Edger?
Yes – to a point. String trimmers don’t cut as deep as edgers do, so can only do light edging.
My edging and trimming routine looks something like this:
After the first mow of the year, I’ll go really deep with my edger and create a sweet border around my yard.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll still edge my lawn – but only use my string trimmer and not my edger. This is purely for touch-ups on the border.
Every month, I grab my edger and give it another whirl.
The process repeats until I stop mowing for the year.
It is important to make sure to use the edger at least monthly because the deeper border it creates will slowly fill with grass clippings and dirt that won’t be removed by the weaker weed eater.
Do You Really Need An Edger?
In my opinion, yes. If you want a pristine looking yard with clean borders, you just won’t get that “professional” look without an edger.
If you don’t care as much about how your yard looks and think you can get away with a weed eater – then sure it is possible. For me and my yard, an edger is a super important part of my lawn care routine.
In fact, the biggest difference I noticed in my yard was after I started edging. This actually made people stop their car when I was outside and tell me my lawn looked nice. Isn’t that what every man wants?
Should You Trim and Edge Before Mowing?
I think you can, but the best time to trim and edge your lawn is after mowing. When you are pushing or riding around in a big bulky mower, there are going to be some nooks and crannies that you just can’t reach.
After mowing is the best time to grab your trimmer and clean up those missed spots from mowing. Then after you’ve trimmed and the grass is all cut, you have the right time to begin edging.
The Right Time To Edge Your Lawn
The best time to edge your lawn, according to my personal edging, trimming, and mowing routine, is at the beginning of the season. Over the course of the winter, grass is still growing but at a much slower rate. Snow, rain, and the other elements combine to cause the edges around your yard to become frumpy.
At the beginning of the mowing season after your first mower and trimmer session, go over the edges at length with an edger and dig up all the dirt. It is helpful to first trim as though you’re edging to get some of the leg work out of the way.
Your edger will (and should) clog up a few times from all the dirt. Just give it a tap on the ground and get back to work. For the remainder of the year I will simply touch up my yard with a string trimmer around the edges and pull my edger back out once a month or so to really refine the edges again.
Some of my favorite Lawn Edgers
If you are going to buy a standalone edger, I recommend purchasing a battery-powered edger. These are much easier to start, quieter, don’t make you smell, and require no maintenance. Here are a couple of my favorites:
Greenworks 40V 8” Edger
I love Greenworks for a few reasons. They make really great products at competitive prices. I’ve talked to a few guys on their engineering team and they are legit nerds – they love the technical stuff involved in battery-powered tools.
That’s fancy.
And that’s what you want from an edger manufacturer. This one is powerful, uses their 40V battery line which can be used with dozens of other Greenworks tools, and has a brushless motor. It also has a nice little wheel at the back that guides you along a straight path.
This one is a step up in price and power. If you are super serious about edging with a battery edger – this one is a good chunk of change…but it is sweet.
This edger has a sweet sloped shaft that makes edging way smoother than with most straight shafts. Dewalt’s 60V series is also really great to use with stuff like their chainsaws and their Dewalt blowers.
That’s a nice gentle slope.
Dewalt’s edger can be bought on Amazon for a great price. While it is made for edging, it also has the ability to take on Universal Attachments, so can actually become a very powerful multi-tool.
Basically, this thing has the same power as many of the gas string trimmers I’ve used and the edger attachment is an absolute unit. One major upside here is that the EGO 56V battery can be used with all their other tools – like the famous EGO mowers or their super powerful leaf blowers.
The edger attachment rocks.
This one is available at Lowe’s or online from Amazon. It is WELL worth the price and happens to be on a great sale on Amazon.
Ryobi 40V Expand-it Weed Eater and Edger Kit
This was my first weed eater attachment kit, and it had some great ups and downs. But all-in-all, I still think it was a great purchase. I use the weed eater often and the edger still keeps going despite being over 6 years old at this point.
Old faithful.
Some of the other attachments stink, like the blower attachment, but I wouldn’t worry about that if you are looking for a good trimmer and edger kit.
One thing I like about this one is how easy it is to use. I took the shield off of the trimmer and it works like one on steroids. I also swapped out the weed eater string on it and turned it into a freaking machine.
The new version is even nicer.
The edger has stood the test of time and is what started to drop my neighbors jaws all those years ago. I got mine at Home Depot – which has recently upgraded it into a much nicer version.
How I Test Out String Trimmers and Edgers
I test out string trimmers and edgers by…using them for decades. I used to own landscaping company and have used gas, corded, and battery versions of all of these tools. My lawn being good looking is important to me – and so I try to relay everything I learn to the next generation of first-time homeowners.
This one sucks though haha.
When I am testing these tools I am always assessing comfort and ease of use, power, price, and durability. I’ve learned a lot the hard way and hope to help you avoid going down the wrong path.
Why we started The Lawn Review
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
How we spend our time now.
As guys who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
Curved and straight shaft weed eaters are two tools often thought to be variations of the same thing. Straight shaft weed eaters are better for precision cutting and reach whereas curved shaft are better for acting like a miniature mower.
Today I am going to break down both styles of string trimmers and highlight which one I prefer and why I never use one of these (after spending a ton of money on it). I learned this lesson the hard way after trying to make it work for a very long time and finally throwing in the towel.
What’s the difference between curved and straight shaft weed eaters?
Put simply, curved shaft weed eaters have a downward curve that can act as a miniature mower whereas straight shaft weed eaters are longer and straight.
Curved and straight shaft weed eaters both function as trimmers for brush and edgers for the border of your yard, but are often used in different circumstances. I often see most commercial landscapers having both on board their trailers.
Me reluctantly posing with my curved shaft weed eater.
Each has pros and cons that make them uniquely situated to be “better” in each setting. I’ll walk you through my experience as an owner of both.
Pros and cons of curved shaft weed eaters
Pros of curved shaft weed eaters:
Lightweight
Smaller
Better to use for cutting flat surfaces over larger areas (think replacement for a mower in tight spots)
Less expensive
Downsides of curved shaft weed eaters:
Less flexible in their use case, for example I never use mine for edging
When it comes to covering larger areas of grass, yeah it is slightly less convenient to use my straight-shaft – but I will gladly go at a weird angle for a few minutes to save on the back pain I get from leaning over with the tiny curved-shaft.
Who should use a curved shaft weed eater?
As much as I have been sippin’ Haterade when it comes to curved shaft weed eaters, they have their place. My neighbor, who is shorter than the average man, has a curved shaft lightweight weed eater that he loves. He uses it for everything.
But landscapers tend to use these when they have areas of grass to mow that are too small for their zero turns. It can quickly give you an even, flat cut in small areas that does better than a straight shaft weed eater due to the positioning of the head.
Other than that, people who accidentally bought one and don’t feel like getting another (which was me for a full year back in my youth).
Pros and cons of straight shaft weed eaters
Straight shaft weed eaters also have many pros and a few cons, for example:
Pros include:
Longer, easier to have surgical precision with (I pride myself on this)
Harder to use on flat surfaces as opposed to a curved shaft
Can be more expensive
Who should use a straight shaft?
Everyone.
Friend let me borrow his to try out.
Just kidding – while I strongly prefer these, they aren’t perfect for everyone. But for the average homeowner who does trimming and edging themselves, I recommend a straight shaft trimmer 9/10 times. If you aren’t a landscaper and aren’t short, then you’ll strongly prefer a straight shaft trimmer to a curved shaft.
Which is better for edging? Curved vs Straight?
Straight shaft weed eaters are better for edging than curved shaft string trimmers.
A nice straight shaft here.
Because they have a straight shaft, I have a much easier time using these weed eaters to edge around the yard. Curved shaft weed eaters make it much more difficult because they have to be held at a certain angle and are prone to spinning out of your hand when using, causing a mess.
Straight shaft all the way.
Are straight shaft weed eaters more powerful?
When evaluating power on a weed eater, there are a few things to note:
Cutting swath, which indicates how long the string is that is actually doing the cutting. The larger the cutting swath, the more powerful the weed eater is.
Rotations per minute, or RPM. How fast is the head spinning? This tells you how much power is being delivered.
Side-by-side, both straight shaft and a curved shaft weed eater could have identical metrics here and be considered the same amount of power.
My trusty attachment capable straight shaft.
In my experience, straight shaft weed eaters are more powerful – but that is likely just me being biased. There are some curved shaft weed eaters that can absolutely shred thick brush.
So in short, no – they are not more powerful unless they differ in cutting swath or RPMs.
My Choice: Straight or Curved Shaft Weed Eater
If I haven’t made it abundantly clear yet, I much prefer straight shaft weed eaters for many reasons. For starters, they are easier to use for tall people and homeowners. They also are more flexible with how they can be used and can be purchased with attachment capabilities. While they are larger and can sometimes be more expensive, I think you’ll agree with me that they make a lot more sense for the average Joe than a curved shaft string trimmer.
Why we created The Lawn Review
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
Me with my Ryobi 40V trimmer.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
How to instantly improve your weed eater
Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.
Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.
With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.
Electric weed eaters are the future. In fact, we are so confident in that that we’ve purchased probably ten of them here at The Lawn Review and used a dozen more. And yes, we’ve done some crazy stuff in our extensive testing – including cutting through a foam pool noodle to test it out.
Needless to say, we are experts in all things electric and battery-powered weed eaters. We are oddly obsessed with them, so decided to put the findings of all of our rigorous tests into writing.
Today, I’d like to walk you through exactly what I look for when looking for an electric weed eater to make it easier for you to buy when scrolling through the options.
Bottom Line: One of my favorite electric weed eaters is the Milwaukee M18 weed eater. It has a strong motor, great battery system, and is really easy to use.
What we look for in an electric weed eater
After owning probably ten of these and testing out another 10-15, we’ve developed some strong opinions on what to look for in a weed eater. So, I am going to speak mostly from personal experience here, but will tell you how I would make one if I had a lab to make all this.
Getting the right battery line in an electric weed eater
The very first question I ask when someone asks me what kind of weed eater to get is: “do you already own a battery-powered lawn tool?”. If so, my first recommendation is to start your search with the brand you already own. If you have a Ryobi 40V leaf blower, then I say start looking at Ryobi 40V weed eaters (I own both).
My Ryobi battery works with my blower and mower.
The reason I say this is because you can buy many lawn tools as “tool-only”, meaning you can buy it without the battery and save anywhere between $60-$100. It’s a no brainer to narrow the search to those right away.
If this is their first foray into battery-powered tools – then I recommend brands I’ve had the most success with personally. The one weed eater I’ve been most impressed with and has the most gas-like power is my EGO 56V string trimmer. If they are looking for something on the lighter side, there are a number of smaller weed eaters from Black and Decker or others that are good alternatives.
Understanding power on weed eaters
Battery weed eaters have power measurements in a couple of ways: rotations per minute (RPMs), battery voltage, cutting swath, and string size. None of them are absolute in their measurement. For example, Milwaukee makes an 18V weed eater that I absolutely shred with and is powerful as all get out. Worx has a 20V weed eater that is small and relatively weak feeling.
My EGO string trimmer has a decent cutting swath.
What I look for in power is mainly the cutting swath of the weed eater. This is the best indicator of power to me because even at lower RPMs, the greater the length of the string, the faster the tips are moving (its science).
Gas powered weed eaters typically have 15 to 19 inch cutting swaths. Electrics range from 10 to 17 inches. Again, my EGO weed eaters are at the 15 inch range and even a couple of the Dewalt ones I’ve tried get up there.
Luckily, this isn’t something you need to overcomplicate. Look for about a 15 inch cutting swath and the required battery voltage to make it spin will follow.
Feel and comfort is important when using a weed eater
An underrated quality in a weed eater, it is absolutely imperative that you find one that is comfortable to you. My neighbor has a super small, lightweight Ryobi weed eater that has basically no functionality. He has back pain and is about twice my age.
I prefer a much longer, more powerful weed eater that I can use with a variety of attachments. I am well over six feet tall and younger.
There is a huge element to personal preference in the feel and comfort category, but I can tell you what I do when I’m looking for a weed eater. I first check to see whether or not the weed eater has a D-loop handle. D-loop handles make it easier for me to grab and hold at multiple angles. Compare that to some weed eaters that have a foldable handle that isn’t adjustable and forces you to hold the trimmer a single way.
This is a D-loop handle, which comes on many weed eaters.
The other things I am checking for:
Whether or not there’s a variable speed trigger that gives me control of the speed
Molded grips that make holding on easier on the hands
Where the battery connects to see how weight will be distributed
How easy it is to change out the weed eater string / string trimmer line
All of these have an impact on my experience as someone using this tool.
Attachment capabilities make weed eaters amazing tools
Please, please do not skip this section. Having a weed eater with attachment capabilities is an absolute game changer. It can turn your weed eater into a Swiss Army knife. Let me go further.
My EGO Multi Head string trimmer.
One of the first battery powered weed eaters I owned was the Ryobi 40V Expand-It. I still use it every now and then, but it has the ability to have a weed eater, blower, edger, and more attachments. Basically you can take them off and change them out without having to buy a full tool and battery system each time, saving me hundreds of dollars.
My SKIL PWR CORE attachment system.
Some tools we’ve used in this lineup are my Ryobi but also the EGO multi-head we spent a lot of time testing and the SKIL PWR CORE weed eater system that I was not super impressed with when using.
My attachment capable weed eater system.
Motor types on electric weed eaters
Electric motors are different from gas-powered and definitely more simple. There are two main types: brushed and brushless. Brushed motors are the traditional electric tool motor and are fine, but most electric tool motors are being made with brushless motors now.
Compared to brushed motors, they provide more torque, run at a lower temperature, and are more durable. There’s a ton of science that goes into them, but when you see it advertised on a weed eater or really any other lawn tool – I recommend taking it seriously. They are legit.
Corded vs cordless weed eaters
Corded and cordless weed eaters are great alternatives to gas-powered string trimmers when it comes to residential use. The order of power is usually gas > battery > electric. The order of convenience is battery > electric > gas. Make sense?
My corded Black + Decker weed eater.
I’ve used a few corded weed eaters but generally try to avoid them because I don’t like being limited by an extension cord and always yank it around like I’m vacuuming. That being said, one major benefit to my corded weed eater is that I don’t have to charge a battery or anything.
Cordless is definitely my preference and has tons of great options. If you’re going for an electric weed eater, I recommend using a battery-powered system that you can build your battery lawn tool set around.
Gas vs electric weed eaters
When it comes to picking a weed eater, the first decision you’ll come across is whether or not to buy a gas-powered weed eater. They’re the incumbent – and ran the string trimmer world for decades. And just like cars, they still reign supreme for a lot of applications.
Gas string trimmers are easier to run for longer periods of time and don’t require charging
They often have a higher power output
When well-maintained, gas string trimmers can last many years
But battery-powered weed eaters have some advantages to gas:
No maintenance
No fumes
Way quieter
Super easy to start
In short, it comes down to your application. I would almost never recommend an electric weed eater to a professional landscaper. For my neighbors who often ask me which is better, I recommend them trying my battery-powered weed eater to see how satisfied they are with the performance.
Bottom Line: Our experience testing electric weed eaters
If you came up to me on the street and asked me what electric weed eater you should get, I would say it needs to fit these criteria: 15 inch cutting swath, brushless motor, D-loop handle, battery line with significant voltage and Amp-hours, and attachment capability. There are tons of those out there, but we really loved our experience with EGO. We don’t have an affiliation with them or anything – but have been so impressed by their multi-head system.
Common questions about electric weed eaters
Are electric weed eaters worth it?
Electric weed eaters are great tools for homeowners and with the right one, can last a long time. They are definitely worth it for home use.
Electric weed eaters work very well for home use but are limited in commercial use.
What size electric weed eater do I need?
The perfect size electric weed eater for home use is anywhere between 14-16 inches of cutting swath.
How long do battery powered weed eaters last?
Battery powered weed eaters can last about 35-50 minutes depending on intensity of use.
How much does a battery weed eater cost?
Battery weed eaters can cost anywhere from $125 to $400 depending on the size, voltage, and quality of construction.
Why we started reviewing weed eaters
The reason we started The Lawn Review in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
We test lawn tools – for real.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
How to instantly improve your weed eater
Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.
Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.
With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.
The Black & Decker 6.5-Amp, 14-Inch String Trimmer was the first string trimmer I ever owned. Put simply, this weed eater gets the job done while still being a super budget friendly and lightweight tool.
In all it’s condensed glory!
Black and Decker String Trimmers are nearly a household name. I mean who doesn’t own a Black and Decker product? Even my two year old son has a toy Black and Decker tool box!
But there are so many options with Black and Decker trimmers that it is nearly impossible to compare.
Bottom Line: The Black and Decker 14 inch trimmer is one of the best lightweight and light duty string trimmers on the market at a ridiculously low price on Amazon.
Black & Decker String Trimmer, 6.5-Amp, 14-Inch: My Experience
Black and Decker sell a million weed eaters. How did I pick this one? Well, I just scrolled on Amazon and found a cheap one. I had a really small yard when I first bought it, so I wasn’t looking for anything fancy (and couldn’t afford fancy).. I’ve changed and now like really fancy things (but still can’t afford them).
The Black and Decker 14 inch trimmer is easy to use
This Black & Decker string trimmer feels natural to hold. Whether you prefer to hold the handle from the side or from the top, this features a twist and lock mechanism for your preference. I usually go from the side so I can use it for edging.
The twist and lock mechanism.
It’s also very light weight at only 5.3 pounds, so your arms won’t get too tired holding it. For comparison sake, many gas powered weed wackers are over 10 pounds plus the weight of gas in the tank.
Lastly, this tool features a small plastic wheel that you rest on the ground while edging the curb. This helps guide you to keep a straight line for perfectly edged grass.
The little wheel that helps me edge.
One thing I love about it is the automatic feed spool feature, which will automatically send out more trimmer lines when you start to run low. The feature itself is cool, but the actual weed eater string in the replacement spools is super cheap. I knew that when I bought it, but you can’t do a great job edging your lawn without a thicker string.
This all may seem like great features… but it’s not all sunshine & rainbows. More on that in the price & value section below.
Black and Decker’s 14 inch trimmer is corded
This particular tool isn’t battery-powered, but is a great corded electric string trimmer. While it isn’t going to provide you the same portability that a battery powered string trimmer provides, it gives you reliable power without being concerned about the battery charge. As long as your house has power, you have power. Your only concern with this will be making sure you have a long enough extension cord to cover your yard.
The 6.5 amp motor isn’t as strong as a lot of the gas powered string trimmers on the market, but most of our readers don’t need the biggest and baddest on the market. At some point, there’s a diminishing return for how much you pay. My personal opinion, if you’re buying a string trimmer to clean up your edges and trim close to your home, you really don’t need too much more than what this tool offers.
If you have dense brush, a larger yard, or just love power – there are some great gas powered weed eaters from ECHO or even Stihl that will get you there.
The Black and Decker 14 inch String Trimmer is cheap
While this Black & Decker string trimmer has some great features, I wouldn’t feel good just making you seem like it’s everything you need for under $60. Yes, it’s very cheap, which made it a good option when I was young, didn’t have a lot of money, and was a new homeowner acquiring a lot of tools at once to take care of my yard.
But it’s true what they say… you get what you pay for.
The locking mechanism comes undone fairly easily, causing the shaft might twist and turn while you’re trying to get clean edges… which means not clean edges.
The small plastic wheel is nice, but it only works well if the locking mechanism is working to keep it twisted at the right angle. Otherwise, it will just fall over or the friction from the wheel will pull it back. In general, the locking mechanism is definitely a “loose lock.” Like one of those annoying doors in your house where the deadbolt doesn’t quite fit into the door frame.
It’s either really light or I’m really strong.
But once again, this puppy is only going to run you $60 (at the time of this writing) and it’s tough to beat that price. Mine lasted me for years, so I was certainly willing to overlook a few annoyances to save a lot of money.
The Final Verdict: Black and Decker string trimmers
The Black & Decker 6.5 amp, 14-inch String Trimmer is an excellent lawn tool. It’s incredibly budget friendly, does what a string trimmer is supposed to do, without all the unnecessary bells and whistles that usually make tools “look cool” but don’t add to performance.
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
We take tool testing seriously.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
What to look for in a string trimmer
Cordless weed eaters come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:
Feel
Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. Bad. You are going to be using this often and for a long time, so make sure it is comfortable.
Luckily, with corded weed eaters you don’t have a battery or gas tank that adds extra weight – but you do have to pull the cord around with you.
Motor
brushless motors are king here. They are longer lasting and more durable. Brushless motors also produce more torque and less heat. With Black and Decker having a more “budget-friendly” line, you may not be able to find this without spending the big bucks. EGO weed eaters, Milwaukee’s M18 weed eaters, and some Ryobi weed wackers all have brushless motors.
Power Source
Depending on your situation, you may need to consider the power source. If you have a large yard with a lot of acreage, you may need gas to cover the whole area, while smaller yards (an acre or less) can get away with a battery or corded tool.
Curved vs Straight shaft
I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control. Curved shafts are better for smaller areas that require “mowing”, whereas straight shafts are better for precision and clean lines.
Milwaukee’s M18 weed eater is a freak of nature. I like the Milwaukee string trimmer because it comes from a super deep bench of M18 batteries and has unbelievable torque and power despite low voltage.
Bottom Line: The Milwaukee M18 string trimmer has an impressive cutting swath, great battery system, is comfortable and easy to use, and a highly durable motor. This weed eater is darn near perfect. You can grab it from your local Home Depot by using this link.
Milwaukee M18 Brushless String Trimmer: Features and benefits
We already know Milwaukee’s M18 series is built to provide serious power, so let’s break down exactly what makes this a great weed eater. I’m going to look specifically at power, comfort, durability, and price. All of these things together paint the picture of how much value this weed eater has.
Milwaukee’s M18 string trimmer provides serious power
Weed eater power is impacted by a few things. One of the most important is the battery voltage, but also the cutting swath and rotations per minute, or speed, of the string trimmer.
When I look at voltage, usually lower voltage means less power. Somehow, Milwaukee has managed to make their 18V battery provide more power than other 18V battery lines, like Ryobi. Interestingly, they have a High Output battery line that performs better in different temperatures and overall delivers power more efficiently. While you won’t get the same power as you would from an EGO 56V weed eater, it is going to still be a noticeably powerful tool.
The next way to look at power is the cutting swath. The gold standard for a battery-powered weed eater is about 15 inches. Anything above a 15 inch cutting swath puts you in commercial territory. The Milwaukee M18 string trimmer has up to a 16 inch cutting swath, putting it right at the top of the competition.
Lastly, RPMs are also a good indicator of how much power is being delivered. At 6,200 RPMs, this is up there as one of the most efficient weed eaters, providing a ton of spinning force which will help rip through grass with ease.
Comfort and usability on the Milwaukee M18 Weed Eater
The next most important thing to assess after power is how comfortable the M18 weed eater is to use. Frankly, there is nothing particularly special about the Milwaukee M18’s design to imply that it is more or less comfortable than other weed eaters.
Here are some features that come with many other battery-powered weed eaters that are also on the Milwaukee M18 weed eater:
These are relatively common across the dozens of weed eaters we have used, so there isn’t really anything special here. One thing I do NOT love about this weed eater is the battery placement. The M18 battery is at the very, very tip of the weed eater instead of embedded lower in the handle, making the balance a little trickier. It requires a minor increase in downward force / torque of the shoulder that makes it uncomfortable after a few minutes of use.
Hate to say it, but the Milwaukee 2828 M18 Weed eater is very “average” in the comfort and usability department.
One last thing I want to point out with this weed eater that’s a huge advantage is the length. At almost 74 inches long, it is the ideal length for a straight shaft weed eater. Longer shafts allow you to be more precise when cutting.
The Milwaukee M18 weed eater has a durable brushless motor
If you’ve read any of our other reviews, you will know how much emphasis we place on brushless motors. They are EVERYTHING in battery-powered tools and of course super important for weed eaters.
Brushless motors provide more torque, a cooler running motor, and a more durable life than their brushed counterparts. When it comes to electric tools, they should really be required. I would never buy a brushed motor again.
Luckily, the folks at Milwaukee included a brushless motor on the M18 string trimmer kit. This instantly puts it in the upper tier of weed eaters in the ranks of durability because it will outlast every single brushed motor out there.
Another great thing about this one is that the M18 battery system is darn reliable. You can use it on so many of the other Milwaukee tools and because they have 200+ tools on this system, you are going to have no concerns about the durability of the battery.
Again, Milwaukee backs up their tools AND batteries with a 3 year warranty. If you’re worried about durability – don’t be.
The Milwaukee M18 string trimmer is inexpensive
The Milwaukee M18 weed eater comes in at a STUNNING price of just under $200 – including the M18 battery. I was simply aghast when I saw the price. If you already have the M18 battery, you can buy the tool-only version for $180.
The Milwaukee M18 weed eater can take .080” or .095” weed eater string. We developed our own weed eater string after testing dozens of strings and combining the best elements of each into one .095” string. We think it absolutely rocks, but we are biased. It does fit in this weed eater and will definitely add more power. You can grab it below for a really low price.
Final Review: Milwaukee M18 Weed Eater
At first glance, I love the Milwaukee M18 weed eater. I thought: “Milwaukee makes freakishly powerful tools – so this one has to be great”. I saw it was brushless and had a big cutting swath, which confirmed my beliefs. But nothing about it really seemed special. It has totally stock features and doesn’t stand out from the crowd.
But then I saw the price and thought “Wow” this is a super valuable weed eater. It has amazing power, great durability, and an awesome warranty – all for under $200.
If you’re in the market – and PARTICULARLY if you already own Milwaukee products – then you won’t regret buying this bad boy.
Why we review weed eaters
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
How we spend our time.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
How to instantly improve your weed eater
Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.
Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.
With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.
What to look for in a weed eater
Weed eaters AKA string trimmers come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how we evaluate a weed eater at The Lawn Review.
Feel
Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. If you can, get as many adjustable pieces as possible to make this customizable. It doesn’t seem like you use a weed eater for a long time, but the work is precision work that requires a steady hand and focus.
Motor
Brushless motors are a non-negotiable when it comes to battery powered weed eaters. Without a doubt, they are the best option to ensure you have maximum torque, more durability, and a longer life. These things are top notch performance and will be the only option when others start to catch on.
Curved vs Straight shaft
I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control and are much longer than curved shafts. Curved shafts are good for clearing out a small piece of land unable to be mowed. But if you want to actually do some good trimming and edging, a straight shaft is much better. Curved shafts are difficult to maneuver and to create a straight line for edging.
I like the Stihl FS 56 RC compared to the ECHO SRM 225 because it provides a more powerful cut. ECHO and Stihl weed eaters are the gas-powered string trimmers of choice for both commercial and residential use. Both have a reputation for raw power, insane durability, and great performance.
We have extensively reviewed ECHO weed eaters AND Stihl weed eaters and found the two that are most comparable from each brand in the residential space.
The ECHO SRM225 weed eater and the Stihl FS 56 RC weed eater are not only the two most popular, but also extremely similar in just about every way. If you’re looking to pull the trigger (pun intended) on buying one of these, then you need to make sure you read the below deep dive.
Alright, y’all – let’s get to comparing these two string trimmers. We should walk through a power comparison, how these both feel to operate, maintenance, and price/value. Here we go!
Power comparison between ECHO and Stihl weed eaters
Let me start by saying in a blinded test between the two, the power output feels almost identical. I’ve used my trusty Stihl for a long time, but every time I walk by my neighbor’s lawn he has some seriously nice edges around his yard that he did with his ECHO SRM225.
But if we want to get all technical, the Stihl FS 56 RC has about 25% more cc’s of power output. This is more than enough for the average homeowner and will really help you take it from an around-the-house weed eater to a dense brush-cutting beast.
The powerful head of the ECHO SRM 225.
Both the ECHO and Stihl weed eaters are good for anything residential and had similar cutting power for just about everything we did in our driveway and around our back deck. The only real difference was that the Stihl felt like it accelerated more quickly than the ECHO. At top speeds, however, it was harder to tell. ECHO’s SRM 225 reaches an RPM (rotations per minute) of nearly 9,000 whereas the Stihl string trimmer reaches closer to 10,000 RPM.
It’s clear that the Stihl is the more powerful string trimmer when compared to the ECHO. At the end of the day, both are more than enough power for residential use. But if you have any brush in your backyard that you want to slice down, the Stihl FS 56 RC is going to get it done faster.
Comparing usability between ECHO and Stihl
When I’m evaluating user experience I always use my shoulder as the gauge for how easy a weed eater is to use. What I’ve found that impacts the way my shoulder feels are two things:
The weight of the string trimmer
How long the shaft is
These two things have more impact than a harness or balance or anything else. For me, longer shafts provide more control, which may seem counterintuitive. But I liken it to a surgeon using a scalpel. I have much more nuance when controlling the weed eater when the shaft is longer. Small movements make delicate cuts and shapes in whatever I’m working on.
Me using the FS 56 RC weed eater from Stihl.
The Stihl FS 56 RC weed eater comes in at 10.5 lbs whereas the ECHO SRM 225 weighs just over 11.5 lbs. That extra pound makes a difference when you’re bent over walking around your yard for 25 minutes.
The ECHO SRM 225 has about 5 inches of length on the Stihl FS 56 RC, however. At 71 inches, ECHO trumps the Stihl’s 66 inches in length.
This is a tough one, but I would honestly trade in the extra 5 inches for the extra pound of weight.
When it comes to maintenance of weed eaters, there are only a few things to keep in mind. About once per quarter, you’ll want to replace the air filter on both the ECHO and Stihl weed eaters. With heavier use, you may have to replace the spark plug as well, but realistically that may be an every year or even every other year replacement.
The SRM 225 is a beaut.
Otherwise, both ECHO and Stihl recommend making sure that the drive shaft is greased and the fuel filters are inspected and cleaned. Neither of these string trimmers require much maintenance, but they do have some small things to watch out for.
Using the right weed eater string for both is important to preserve performance. Both come with a stock string trimmer line, but we recommend using our .095” green weed eater string that is triangle-shaped.
The ECHO SRM 225 comes in at about $230 depending on where you buy it, which I recommend checking the price here at Home Depot. The price on the Stihl fluctuates wildly but the Stihl FS 56 RC is about $220-250 and can be purchased at Ace Hardware.
Y’all – this is relatively straight forward. The Stihl is the better option between the two. It not only provides a more powerful cut but often comes in at a lower price. This thing is going to last you for a long time and is definitely the better value.
The Best Weed Eater String for Stihl and ECHO string trimmers
Y’all – we developed our own weed eater string that is designed to be the most powerful, durable, and visible on the planet. It is INSANELY good. Check it out below – we tested it against DOZENS of other string trimmer lines.
Final words: Stihl string trimmer vs ECHO
While I was doing the testing for this article, I really didn’t know which would be better. I loved my Stihl but thought my neighbor’s ECHO was just the same, if not better. After using both and doing some deep research on the technical specifications, the Stihl was the clear winner.
The ECHO weed eater is a bit easier to use but is more expensive than the Stihl. The Stihl is more powerful, requires about the same amount of maintenance, is lighter, and comes in at about 15% cheaper than the ECHO.
The winner? Stihl FS 56 RC.
Why we review string trimmers
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
How we spend our time now.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
How to instantly improve your weed eater
Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.
Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.
With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.
What to look for in a weed eater
Weed eaters come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:
Feel and Ease of Use
Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. If you can, get as many adjustable pieces as possible to make this customizable. It doesn’t seem like you use a weed eater for a long time, but the work is precision work that requires a steady hand and focus.
Engine Type and maintenance
For residential use, you don’t need a whole lot of power, but if you’re picking between two, you might as well make a point to compare the two. More cc displacement means more power, but how efficiently is it being delivered? How easy is it to replace the air filter or spark plug?
Curved vs Straight shaft
I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control and are much longer than curved shafts. Curved shafts are good for clearing out a small piece of land unable to be mowed. But if you want to actually do some good trimming and edging, a straight shaft is much better. Curved shafts are difficult to maneuver and to create a straight line for edging. Both of these weed eaters have straight shafts, so you’re in good hands.
Not a fan!
Price and value
Of course price is important – but more important than price is how much value it provides.
The best ECHO weed eater is the ECHO SRM-225 because it is inexpensive, extremely reliable, and powerful enough for both commercial and residential lawn care.
My neighbor also has one and every time I walk on the sidewalk by his house, I can’t help but admire the insane borders he’s created around his yard. And he doesn’t even own an edger.
But today, I’d like to walk you through the definitive ranking of ECHO trimmers. I recently walked into Home Depot and noticed that there are like 6 or 7 ECHO weed eaters side-by-side and you can’t tell much of a difference except for the price and can’t even really pull them off of the rack to compare.
Which is exactly why we are going to break it down for you today.
We developed our own weed eater string that absolutely slaps. Extremely powerful, durable, and visible. We tested it against DOZENS of different strings. You can check it out on Amazon here.
Best ECHO Weed Eaters: Ranked
Let’s jump straight into the rankings. I will preface this by saying it is my opinion, not gospel. I am speaking from the point of view of a homeowner, not necessarily a professional landscaper, although I do try to view each weed eater holistically. Let’s get going.
1. ECHO SRM-225 Weed Eater
The ECHO SRM 225 that my neighbor has is like ordering an old fashioned at the bar. You know what you’re going to get. And it has amazing power, consistent results, and amazing durability. There is a reason that this is their best selling string trimmer.
It’s got everything that I look for in a gas-powered weed eater. Let’s start breaking it down:
17 inch cutting swath. Holy cow. That is a massive cutting swath area and can almost (probably) replace your lawn edger altogether. This is a top-of-the-line cutting swath not found on any kind of battery-powered weed eater.
21.2 cc engine – this is about what you expect from a high end residential weed eater. Not too much, not too little – just right.
It is about 60 inches long, or 5 feet. I love when long weed eaters because it gives you more precision and flexibility when cutting and often gives you a straighter line.
Speed-feed head. This is a registered trademark of ECHO, but it basically allows you to quickly reload weed eater string without having to disassemble the whole head.
The cutting head with speed feed technology.
Like I mentioned before, this has just about everything you would want in a weed eater and comes in at one of the lowest prices you can get for an ECHO weed eater. Its MSRP is about $230, but it is currently on sale at Home Depot.
The only thing I would change is upgrading the weed eater string from the stock crossfire string.
2. ECHO GT-225 Weed Eater
The ECHO GT-225 is a somewhat lighter version of the SRM 225 above. It has a smaller cutting swath, a curved shaft, and doesn’t have a speed-feed head, but is otherwise very similar.
While I prefer straight shaft string trimmer, I recognize there is still a place for curved shaft string trimmers. Curved shafts are great for using on flat surfaces where you aren’t necessarily trying to shape something. Think areas that are too small for traditional mowers where you still need to mow down some grass.
They’re also great around light poles, mailboxes, or other solid structures. I think you lose a bit of visibility and reach when you use them, so I always go for straight shafts.
That being said, the GT-225 still has a nice engine and all the same bells and whistles as the SRM-225. So I have to give this one the best curved weed eater made by ECHO award.
The SRM-2620 is a beast. I think it may be the best all-around weed eater for commercial landscapers. It is extremely powerful and surprisingly light. This isn’t one I would use for tinkering around the yard as I am simply unworthy.
I would consider this one an SRM 225 on steroids. It has the below similarities:
A 6 foot long straight shaft
A 17 inch cutting swath (which is huge)
Weighs around 12 lbs without any fuel
Speed feed head
The main difference in this one is that it comes with a 25.4 cc engine, whereas the ECHO SRM 225 has a 20.2 cc engine.
Nice straight shaft!
Us normies wouldn’t notice the difference, but if you are using these string trimmers for hours per day, you understand the difference in 5 cc of power output.
It also costs about $120 more than the SRM 225, with the MSRP around $360. You can go to ECHO’s website to find a retailer near you, though I’ve seen these at Home Depot.
4. ECHO SRM-266 Weed Eater
The SRM 266 is a slightly toned down version of the 2620 above. They are nearly identical, with the following differences:
The 266 has a smaller fuel tank, at about 16 oz compared to the 2620’s large 20 oz fuel tank.
The 266 doesn’t have 1.62:1 gear reduction as found on the 2620.
The 266 is slightly heavier by about 2lbs, which is odd because the engine area is a little bit smaller
The 266 is about $40 cheaper
Indistinguishable from the one above.
Otherwise, they are the same length and have the same cutting swath. I don’t totally understand why ECHO made these two different weed eaters, but I don’t make the rules.
5. ECHO DSRM-2600 Battery-powered weed eater
Uh….this thing is a monster. Doing research for this article, this is actually the first time I’ve seen ECHO’s battery-powered weed eater line and quite frankly this thing smacks.
The DSRM-2600 has all the things you would want in a sweet battery-powered string trimmer, with one major flaw. This ECHO electric weed eater has a 17 inch cutting swath, which is about 2 inches more than any other battery-powered weed eater I’ve reviewed (which is a lot).
It also matches EGO’s battery powered weed eater line by including a 56V battery. One beautiful thing that ECHO did with their battery-powered motor is including a nice brushless motor. Brushless motors provide more torque, cooler motors, and a longer life. They’re table stakes for electric weed eaters.
One major downside to this one is that the run time is only 26 mins with the 2.5 Ah battery. With the 5.0 Ah battery, you’ll be able to get 54, but even that is subject to dropping if you are stopping and going a lot or cutting thick brush.
Look at that battery!
Neither of those are great if you are a professional. This is where many battery powered weed eaters get into trouble. They start to max out power, which is great, but you trade off time. Most people that need a lot of power ALSO need time. The technology just isn’t quite there yet.
One other downside is that you may not use these batteries for much else, unless you want to start using ECHO’s battery line for everything else, which is possible. If you have other battery-powered tools, this may just take up another plug in your garage.
We’ve developed a weed eater string that can turn wimpier electric weed eaters into beasts. That means you can get performance + a longer lasting battery. Heck yeah.
6. ECHO SRM 410X Weed Eater
The SRM 410-X is barely a weed eater. It is actually illegal in 15 countries, including Guam.
That part isn’t true. But this thing is INSANELY powerful, so I had to put it on the list. The numbers on this (price included) are astronomical. All of which I’ve never seen before. So here they are:
42.7 cc engine. Yes you read that right, that is OVER DOUBLE the SRM 225.
A 20 inch cutting swath. The next highest I’ve seen is 17 inches. HOLY COW
33.8 fl oz fuel tank. I mean???
A 60.2 inch shaft length, which is OVER 5 feet long.
Almost $600
An absolute unit.
This is easily the most ridiculous string trimmer I’ve ever seen. And I love it. I want to own this thing so badly I might just go by it right now. I just know I would tear up my yard if I got this thing. It’s an absolute jack hammer.
And for that – it had to make the list.
ECHO Weed Eaters: Parting Words
ECHO weed eaters / string trimmers are workhorses. Super reliable, super durable, probably the F-150 of weed eaters (I just made some people mad).
One thing to remember is that each of these come with a 5 year residential, 2 year commercial warranty. They put their money where their mouth is when it comes to durability, making a product you can trust.
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
How we spend our time now.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
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What to look for in a weed eater
Weed eaters AKA string trimmers come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:
Feel – Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. If you can, get as many adjustable pieces as possible to make this customizable. It doesn’t seem like you use a weed eater for a long time, but the work is precision work that requires a steady hand and focus.
Motor – I’m looking for some dang power, but not so much that I shred the weed eater string every five seconds. A moderate amount of cc displacement is great with me. Anything too high is really a waste of money for me.
Curved vs Straight shaft – I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control and are much longer than curved shafts. Curved shafts are good for clearing out a small piece of land unable to be mowed. But if you want to actually do some good trimming and edging, a straight shaft is much better. Curved shafts are difficult to maneuver and to create a straight line for edging.
