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.
In the same way electric cars are becoming powerful and popular, so are electric lawn tools. Long gone are the days of corded leaf blowers and mowers that can barely move a leaf off the ground.
The new mowers are in town.
The new generation of battery-powered lawn tools by brands like EGO, Greenworks, Ryobi, and Makita are powerful machines. The top brands can often rival gas-powered tools in just about every way, but without the maintenance, noise, or smell. You can also save a ton of money by purchasing the tool-only version of lawn tools.
As a former lawn tool collector with a garage full of gas-powered tools, I can tell you that I have made some bad purchases in the electric lawn tool space. That is why we created this resource guide. You can also check out everything you would want over on our Amazon Storefront, where we’ve consolidated all of the best tools into one place.
Let’s start with the big kahuna. You don’t have yard work or lawn care without a lawn mower. The absolute number one essential lawn tool is the mower. Let’s review exactly what you should look for in a mower, then I’ll make a couple of recommendations that can help you make the perfect purchase.
When looking to purchase an electric lawn mower, you need to make sure you understand what things matter. You will get hit with a lot of technical specifications and marketing tactics. Totally forget them and focus on the things that impact you. Below are my recommendations:
Go with a high quality brand with a trusted reputation
Quality is going to be super important here. If you are new to the electric lawn mower space, there are definitely some names you will recognize making electric lawn tools, but there are a few others that are top-of-the-line and electric-only.
Avoid anything from a weird brand on Amazon that takes 9 years to ship. It is probably being 3D printed in a Laotian bathroom. Go for brands that have consistent quality and focus on the details, not just flashy colors.
Some brands with a stellar reputation include Greenworks, EGO, and Makita.
Metal where it matters.
Most electric mowers are plastic-y. Probably to reduce the weight of the mower so that the battery can get you further, but it feels cheap. Make sure to get metal where it matters – namely the deck. The deck is the part that covers the blades. Don’t get plastic here – a rock can rip through it.
A ten dollar word used here, but really just make sure to buy a mower with a battery that is compatible with trimmers, blowers, etc.. Ryobi has this, so does Dewalt, and so do some of the Greenworks products. This will save you garage clutter and plug space.
The last thing anyone wants is seven or eight different plugs on the wall trying to charge batteries. A single line of batteries goes a long way here.
Self-propelled or not.
While I personally don’t use the self-propelled function, a lot of people love it. If you are older, have steep banks or hills, or otherwise just want to move more quickly, self-propelled mowers can be a huge help.
They can also significantly drain the battery of your mower, so be prepared to stop to charge the mower at some point.
Motor Type
While electric motors have historically relied on wound coils of wire to create a magnetic field to utilize the energy in a battery to rotate the “rotor” which has positively and negatively charged ends that spin – creating torque. The coils act like a brush against the internal components of the motor that will wear out over time – the new kid on the block, brushless motors, are different.
Brushless motors have removed the friction and replaced with magnetic force fields – thus removing the wear and tear on the coils.
This adjustment significantly improves motor performance and durability. Less friction makes for easier spinning of motor components. Faster spinning means higher performance – usually. Higher performance makes us happy.
Top Battery-Powered Lawn Mower Recommendations
We have tried, reviewed, and ranked close to 100 battery-powered mowers. A few really stick out to us.
Greenworks 80V Pro Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower 21”
This mower from Greenworks is a masterpiece. Everything we recommend in a mower can be found in this one. A steel deck. A brushless motor. A battery line you can stick with for all of your Greenworks tools. A great brand. This one is top-of-the-line. It can be found on Amazon for a pretty good sale or at your local Costco.
EGO Power+ 56V 21-inch Cordless Electric Select Cut XP Lawn Mower
A close runner-up, this thing has a killer self-propelled function, a long-lasting battery, a pretty sweet design, and a brushless motor. The only downside here is the plastic deck. Otherwise, this is a great mower and part of a great battery series. It can also be found on Amazon and on sale right now or at Lowe’s.
Again, let’s break down what you need to know when picking out a battery-powered weed eater. Then I’ll give some recommendations based on our research and trials.
What to look for in a cordless 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 and usability
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.
I recommend using trimmers with a molded grip that comes in the shape of a D. This way you can grab the handle at multiple angles for whenever you want to do some edging with it.
Motor type
Brushless motors are king here. They are longer lasting and more durable. Brushless motors also produce more torque and less heat.
This is the same benefit found across all battery-powered lawn tools.
Batteries
Not only do you want a lighter weight battery, but you also want to try to get a battery with your trimmer that also works with a blower.
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” with a string trimmer, whereas straight shafts are better for precision and clean lines.
Longer straight shaft trimmers are also easier to balance and handle as they distribute weight better.
Top Battery-Powered Weed Eater Recommendations
I’ve used dozens of battery-powered weed eaters and review and rank them extensively. Here are some of my favorites.
Makita XRU15PT1 36V Brushless String Trimmer
Okay, this one is an absolute beast and can blow the socks off any commercial gas trimmer. It has a massive cutting swath of 15 inches, a brushless motor, and comes with 4 batteries. Makita does a great job with their products, whether they be hand power tools or their full suite of different weed eaters.
This one is much more affordable. It weighs about six pounds, is super easy to use, has a telescoping arm, and can be plopped on its side for proper edging. Worx makes some really cool products, just like this flexible and simple weed eater called the GT revolution.
Leaf blowers have some of the largest variety in power, with most folks still thinking gas is the most powerful. You would be surprised to see how far some of these blowers have come. Let’s check it out.
What to look for in an electric blower
Cordless blowers come in a bunch of shapes and sizes. There are smaller, lightweight handheld blowers, massive backpack blowers, and everything in between. Regardless of the type of blower, there are three basic things you need to understand before making a purchase.
CFM
Cubic feet per minute. This is a measure of air output on the blower. Higher CFM means more air output, but not necessarily more miles per hour. You may see a lot of blowers that have really high CFMs, but don’t always blow air at the highest miles per hour. This is due to the fact that some blowers have wide nozzles. They can push air out with great force, but since the area of the nozzle is large, the miles per hour isn’t as proportionally high.
High CFM blowers with low MPH are great for moving big piles of leaves across the yard.
Blowers with high MPH might not have as high of CFMs, but have narrower nozzles. These are great for precision blowing or for things like wet grass or wet leaves.
I prefer to have a high MPH blower so that I can get those wet leaves off of my back deck. Most commercial landscapers use backpack blowers with high CFMs so that they can remove leaves from parking lots and other surfaces.
Usability and “Feel”
Leaf blowers come in all shapes, sizes and weights. If you have a large yard, you will want to really pay attention to the weight distribution and handling of a blower, otherwise you may end up at a chiropractor.
For large yards, I generally recommend a backpack blower. It is the most comfortable blower for heavy use because it is wearable and powerful.
For medium and small yards, there are some great lightweight handheld blowers that have just as much power as a backpack blower – see our recommendations.
Another feature you will want to watch out for is cruise control settings and variable speed control. You can quickly tire out your hands if you are holding onto the blower and also trying to keep the trigger on a very specific setting.
Motor Type
Brushless motors reign supreme. Cooler running motors with more torque, a longer run-time, and last many more years. Brushless is a no brainer when picking a blower, especially since these tend to start and stop so much during use. Keep this thing ticking for many years with a brushless motor.
This blower is more powerful than most, if not all, handheld gas blowers. It has 765 CFMs and can blow air at up to 200 MPH. Holy cow.
It also has a variable speed trigger, cruise control, a few different nozzle tips you can attach, and a brushless motor. Basically, it has it all. It even comes with a five year warranty. If you already own EGO batteries, at the time of this writing you can get the tool-only version for just over $200. Not bad. It is also available at Lowe’s.
Me with my EGO blower.
Ryobi 40V Brushless Whisper Blower
A close competitor to the EGO blower, I recommend the Ryobi for anyone with an existing Ryobi battery. This thing is just slightly less powerful than the EGO blower but is MUCH quieter. The 40V series by Ryobi is pretty sweet as well, with a ton of different tools that can use the same exact battery. That’s a big money, space, and time saver.
At the time of this writing you can grab this blower from Home Depot with batteries and charger for a really good price.
Corded electric lawn dethatchers
Lawn dethatchers and aerators are harder to find in folks’ garages, but mostly because folks neglect this process in their lawn. Dethatchers and aerators are great for the overall health of the grass – those two tools are probably the best kept secret in lawncare – and they happen to be the most satisfying tools on the planet.
The Value of a Dethatcher
Dethatchers are a lesser-known lawn tool but that’s because most folks don’t care enough about their yard to use one. If you are reading this post, you are in the elite subgroup of yard enthusiasts who give a darn and are about to be the envy of all of your neighbors.
Dethatchers work by pulling up dead grass that is stuck to your lawn’s soil.
“Wait a second, that stuff is bad?”
Well, maybe not BAD, but it limits the amount of nutrients your soil can take in. We go out and pull weeds in the garden bed because they can overtake our flowers and bushes. The same goes for our grass. The thatch is not going to take over your yard and is dead, but it is still taking up valuable real estate that could help grow more grass.
Weeds and grass when they see your lawn.
When to dethatch your lawn
Dethatching your lawn should take place just prior to aerating and overseeding – so generally in the fall. For those of us that live in the South, this is sometime around mid to early October. If it’s too hot, the seed will dry up and not thrive. If it’s too cold, well, it is too late.
You can also dethatch at the end of a brutal winter to allow your soil to open up and breathe again before it warms up. So many lawns continue to limp into the spring because they are mushy and have a ton of moist thatch just clogging up the yard. Get rid of that.
Electric Dethatchers 101
Okay, let us make our way into the meat of this post. Old-school dethatchers are fine-toothed rakes that require you to physically make your way across the yard and pull up all the dead grass like a caveman. I do not recommend this to anybody that enjoys having a back.
On the flip side, there is a reason that motorized dethatchers are not gas-powered. Dethatchers, even motorized ones, require a slower movement across the yard. And honestly, that is a good thing. There’s no way to go through the process quickly. If you had a gas-powered dethatcher, you would basically till your entire yard and you might as well plant something else if you do that.
Electric dethatchers are perfect because they are super light, easy to use, and simply hover across your yard, pulling up all the dead thatch. We did a full comparison post of the two best dethatchers on the market.
Top Corded Electric Dethatcher Recommendations
The most satisfying tools on the planet, here are our recommendations for electric dethatchers based on personal use and testing.
Greenworks 10A Electric Dethatcher
The Greenworks Dethatcher is a super affordable, easy-to-operate, and powerful lawn tool that can help your yard breath again. We’ve mentioned Greenworks a few times now, but they are a trusted brand that provides amazing products. At the time of this writing, you can grab their dethatcher for about $125 on Amazon.
I got this a few months ago to give a whirl after my lawn looked dead as dead can be. Needless to say, my jaw was on the floor.
Sun Joe AJ798E 12A Electric dethatcher
The Sun Joe is also a great option if you have any brand preference for them. The machines themselves are about neck and neck in all features, with the Sun Joe being slightly smaller and more expensive. I used this one in my YouTube video I made about dethatching my lawn. It was great – not super sturdy, but did the job over my half acre of land.
When it comes to clearing snow from your property, there are two main types of machines to choose from: the snow thrower and the snow blower. Both have their pros and cons, so how do you decide which is the right machine for you?
Snow blowers vs snow throwers
Many people ask what the difference is between a snow blower and a snow thrower. Let me tell you right now, both are far superior to a snow shovel. While snow blowers and snow throwers build significantly less character for young men, they are much easier to use and more effective for clearing out large amounts of snow.
In short, snow throwers launch snow 10-15 feet away and are generally more narrow. Snow blowers launch snow 25-30 feet away and are wider. Snow blowers are heavier duty and can also handle many, many inches of snow. At the end of the day, it will be much more fun to launch the snow into the neighbor’s yard instead of just the edge of your own yard.
1-stage vs 2-stage snow blowers
Snow throwers tend to be the name for one-stage blowers. One-stage means that the action of launching the snow happens in one step: it gets scooped up and shot through a tube in one motion. Two-stage blowers are more powerful. Blowers with two stages have one action that scoops up the snow and another that launches it. This allows for a much stronger “launching” capacity, sending snow to the moon.
Top Battery-Powered Snow Blower Recommendations
While I don’t use snow blowers often, when I do they are a TON of fun.
Greenworks Pro 80V 20-inch Brushless Snow Blower
This Greenworks snow blower thing is a dang beast. It’s 20 inches wide which means you get inside and out of the snow way quicker than with narrower snow blowers. If you’ve read anything from this article, you know that I’m obsessed with brushless motors, which this one has. Greenworks has a great reputation and the 80V battery here can be used with a ton of other great Greenworks tools.
EGO Power+ SNT2110 21-inch Blower
For a little bit more, you can get a little bit more. A nearly identical snow blower, but with an additional inch, this is a great option if you already have other EGO products and have the battery.
A solid chainsaw is one of the most important tools a homeowner can have. Buying the right one is absolutely essential to your kids or neighbors thinking you’re a cool man or woman. Chainsaws come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, types and models. Most are either gas or electric powered. Depending on your application of course, most people can get away with a 14” bar and chain. Unless you’re cutting up massive trees you probably don’t need anything bigger than that.
In addition to that, most people nowadays can probably get away with an electric model vs a more powerful, smoother cutting gas powered model. But it’s all personal preference. However, honestly I tend to always go with the bigger more powerful engines because I think they’ll last longer. So far that’s proven to be true, but I could just be wasting money.
Must-have chainsaw features
Just make sure your chainsaw at least has a kickback reduction feature. This prevents you from losing one of your precious fingers! You only have 10 of them ya know! This also prevents you from cutting your head in half. Kickback reductions can be in the form of the chain or bar itself. Basically these just prevent you from cutting too aggressively which prevents your saw from bouncing back on you. Or a chain brake which causes the chain to stop when it hits something hard or moves too abruptly
Other features that are nice to have are more comfort-centric. These include tool-less tensioners, mufflers, anti-vibration, automatic chain oilers, etc.
Top Battery-Powered Chainsaw Recommendations
Battery powered chainsaws are one of those tools we just didn’t expect to match up to our gas powered chainsaws. When we tested these – we were proven wrong.
Greenworks G-MAX 40V 16-inch chainsaw
The Greenworks G-MAX chainsaw can cut through 15 inches of wood, with the equivalent power of a 35cc gas chainsaw. Also featuring a brushless motor, anti-vibration, and no gas or fumes, this thing is pretty dang sweet and looks really cool as well.
A great option for the average homeowner that needs to break up fallen branches. It’s 16 inches, has a brushless motor, and is a great deal. Not the most powerful in the world, but pretty sweet especially if you already have the battery – which most people do.
Here’s what I look for when picking out a new electric pressure washer.
Nozzles Matter
When choosing a pressure washer, you should pay attention to the nozzles included in the package. Two types of spray nozzles are available usually, adjustable spray nozzles that can be controlled and quick-connect nozzles with predefined spray patterns.
The predefined spray patterns typically come in different angles, allowing for you to quickly switch between a broad, lower pressure spray or a narrow, higher pressure stream.
Soap tank
Additionally, you may want to consider a soap tank – equipped pressure washer. Some of these pressure washers have “foam cannons” where you can simply add some soap and it will mix it in with the water. Pretty cool.
I recommend a soap tank for cars and windows.
Wheels on pressure washers
Despite these seemingly minor features, they can have a big impact, especially with larger units. No sense in lugging around one of these in your yard and tripping all over the place.
The trusty Sun Joe SPX3000.
Hose types
There’s a big difference between how easy or difficult it is to use a pressure washer based on the kind of hose that comes with it. Stiff, rigid hoses make it extremely difficult to have any maneuverability without messing up the job or knocking over the base.
Portability
Even if this has the drawback of making the unit less powerful, a portable, smaller pressure washer will be a better choice if you have to move around or carry the unit with you. Most of us do this, especially if you are doing the exterior of your house.
Totally depends on the job you are trying to do.
Pressure washers: Gas vs. Electric
Gas pressure washers have been around forever and probably aren’t going anywhere – but electric pressure washers are on the up and up like all the other lawn tools.
Electricity and water! What can go wrong?
The maintenance and cost of gas pressure washers are greater, including things like air filter changes, spark plugs, and more. Gas pressures are also insanely loud. However, electric washers simply have a power source and a button and are far quieter.
I like buttons.
Top Electric Pressure Washer Recommendations
Just like some of the others, we’ve tested a TON of electric pressure washers. Here are some of our favorites.
Sun Joe SPX3500 Pressure Washer
The SPX3500 is a souped-up version of the most popular pressure washer on the planet, the Sun Joe SPX3000. It basically fixed all the negative feedback on the SPX3000 and even looks cooler. It’s got a brushless motor, brass fittings, and is easy to store and transport. It even has a tad more power. It is the best Sun Joe pressure washer on the market.
Greenworks PRO 3000 PSI TruBrushless Electric Pressure Washer
This thing is legit. All of its stats have been verified by the Pressure Washer Manufacturers of America, meaning the nerds who designed this really put some love behind it. Believe it or not, that’s rare.
I love how this Greenworks pressure washer boasts the PWMA certification and also distinguishes the Brushless motor as TruBrushless, throwing shade on competitors who exaggerate numbers or don’t actually use brushless motors through and through. This one is higher quality, but also slightly more expensive, right now this one is for sale on Amazon.
Final Wrap-up
Folks, thanks for reading our guide. The tools here are not exhaustive – this is not a static list, in fact the pros over at Greenworks, EGO, and all the other manufacturers are constantly coming out with new products that exceed expectations and advance the electric armory.
Check out our YouTube channel to see us using and testing all these tools – sometimes head-to-head!
Why we review lawn tools
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.
Here’s how I spend my 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.
Weed eaters and brush cutters are similar tools with different purposes. Both tools offer unique advantages and are often confused with each other.
The first time I used a brush cutter, my mind was blown. But the thing is – I don’t use this tool that often. Weed eaters have a ton of advantages and are much more versatile, but can’t do what brushcutters do.
Let me explain the difference between these bad boys.
How I tested out these tools
I’ve been using weed eaters for nearly two decades. I’ve extensively tested gas, battery, and corded weed eaters and written at length about each.
I also have a Youtube channel where I go into much more detail about specific lawn tools I’ve tested. When I am putting a weed eater or brush cutter to the test, I am always looking for a combination of power, usability, run time, and price.
This weed eater kinda sucks though.
I had a lot of fun testing these lawn tools and got carried away with my brush cutter attachment.
Weed eater vs brush cutter: Difference Explained
Weed eaters AKA string trimmers use a weed eater string to cut through tall grass and light brush. Brush cutters are blades fixed to the edge of a weed eater that can cut through thick brush and even small trees and branches.
Brush cutters basically look like circular saws on a stick. Kinda crazy – but also really cool. Weed eaters are extremely versatile and can be used for edging or trimming. Brushcutters are also versatile, but are really used just for thick brush and small trees.
When to use a weed eater
Weed eaters are great tools for cleaning up areas that you can’t reach with your lawn mower. After you’ve done a quick mow of your lawn, there will be some places that you miss – around your gutters, next to your garden beds, close to a fence or deck.
Weed eaters are perfect for cutting down all these missed portions of grass. They can also be used to cut through light brush. For example, I’ve got some growth on the backside of my lawn that has to be cut back every now and then. It is a relatively thin brush, so doesn’t need a brush cutter.
Weed eaters can also be used as light edgers as well. When you turn them on their side, you can use a nice, strong weed eater string to dig a small trench around your yard. I use my weed eater as an edger in between times that I actually use my edger.
My weed eater string is the GOAT.
All-in-all, weed eaters are super versatile tools that can act as miniature mowers or edgers and everything in between. But they can’t do everything.
When to use a brush cutter
Brush cutters are great tools for cutting through thick brush that can’t be reached with a weed eater. Above I mentioned using my weed eater to cut through some light brush at the back of my lawn. If you go a little past that, you run into a thicker area of kudzu and small trees.
The brush cutter is a perfect tool for those. When the kudzu starts to get out of hand and wrap its tentacles around my fence, I hop over with the brush cutter and send it back about 5 years.
Basically me.
Brush cutters can also knock down little trees. Like I mentioned earlier, these things are like circular saws on a stick. Sounds dangerous? Well it probably is if you don’t keep an eye out for kickback.
Best brush cutter attachments
Brush cutter attachments can either be a full on attachment to your weed eater, or can simply be a blade to replace the head on your weed eater. Here are a few I looked at when I was on the market.
Ryobi Expand-It Brush Cutter Attachments
As an owner of the Ryobi Expand-It series, this one was a super easy option. I believe these are universal attachments, so it was almost a no-brainer. Ryobi’s brush cutter attachment is perfect for thick brush but won’t be great for chopping down little trees.
The three-sided blades on this one give it superior cutting power for thick brush, absolutely abusing brush with ridiculous power. It pops right onto the power head of the Ryobi and can be used instantly. This is a huge advantage as compared to the individual blades because they’re so much easier to take on and off.
Pops right on.
Another thing I like about the three-blade system is that it doesn’t dull as quickly as the individual blades that have saw-like features. The main difference is that it isn’t being used on trees which dull it much more quickly than brush does.
The Forester brush cutter blade is a sweet tack on for your weed eater that is a straight up beast. This thing is extremely saw-like and will definitely tackle small trees and make light work of brush.
One thing to consider is that if you dig this into the dirt at all, you will dull the blades – just like a chainsaw. You’ve got to be careful when cutting brush close to the ground, so I recommend sticking with small trees and playing it safe with brush.
It’s a beast.
The Forester brush cutter blade can be found at Amazon for a great price and should fit just about every weed eater.
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 type: Brushless vs brushed
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.
Why we review lawn tools
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.
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.
Brushless motors on weed eaters means that it is a motor that operates with less friction, more torque, and a cooler operation. Brushless motors last longer and are great innovations.
Brushless motors are big deals when it comes to weed eaters. Practically every “high-end” weed eater has a big advertisement about brushless motors.
Back in my day, we didn’t have brushless or brushed or anything fancy – we didn’t even really have electric motors. But this new generation of battery-powered weed eaters is different.
They pack a serious punch and have a price that makes you really think twice.
Is brushless worth it? How does it compare to gas? All that and more answered.
Brushless as advertised on a weed eater refers to the motor. Brushless motors are designed differently to leverage frictionless magnets to power a motor.
Weed eaters with brushless motors tend to last longer, be more durable, and provide more torque. When you see brushless listed at the top, you can know that this is a higher quality electric motor than traditional brushed motors. What you also might notice is a higher price point compared to other weed eaters – including some gas-powered weed eaters.
In my opinion, brushless weed eaters are worth the additional cost as they will last significantly longer than others.
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.
Brushed vs Brushless Weed Eaters
Brushless weed eaters have a frictionless, efficient motor design that leverages magnets instead of the friction electron transfer required from brushed motors.
You may notice that brushed motors get hot, don’t last as long, and are overall found on weaker, smaller lawn tools. Brushless motors provide a cooler running motor, are more durable and efficient, last longer, and provide more torque.
When I was picking out weed eaters, brushless was the first non-negotiable I had on my list. I chose to pay more for brushless because I want a tool that will last longer and won’t get so hot.
Brushed motors are often found on lower-end weed eaters and corded weed eaters (often one in the same).
Are brushless tools better?
Brushless tools are better for those looking to have more efficient lawn tools with a longer life. They are not better for those looking for cheap lawn tools that will simply get the job done. Many first time homebuyers settle for brushed, corded weed eaters just to check the box.
In my opinion, making a minor investment in brushless tools will pay off in the long run. Having to replace the tools entirely in half the time as you would with a brushless tool can quickly cost you way MORE than you would have paid to just buy a brushless weed eater in the first place.
Gas vs Brushless Electric Weed Eaters
When it comes to gas vs electric weed eaters, it’s important to weigh out the pros and cons. Both are great options, but in my opinion – built for different audiences.
Here are some pros to brushless electric weed eaters compared to gas-powered weed eaters:
No fumes
Super easy to start
No maintenance
Can use the batteries to power other tools
Extremely simple
But gas-powered weed eaters have benefits, too. Some of their benefits include a longer run-time and more power.
I think the gap is narrowing in power between the two, but a really nice brushless weed eater with power comparable to gas is pretty expensive. Most can be found for around $200 or $250, but some can be north of $350.
This weed eater was the number one choice of ours on our list of best EGO weed eaters. There are a bunch of reasons why, but mostly because it has an awesome mix of price, power, and ease of use.
It has this cool Powerload technology from EGO that allows you to simply drop some weed eater string in, and it will automatically wind it up for you. Kind of nice.
But what really sticks out is the 16 inch cutting swath. This is technically in the commercial category and will be an absolute freak of nature when it comes to power. This is our favorite.
The Makita XRUP15PT1 weed eater is an equally dominant weed eater but with a slightly smaller cutting swath at 15 inches as compared to the EGO’s 16 above. One big differentiator in Makita’s favor is that it takes the 18V batteries that can be found on so many other Makita tools, including Makita’s mowers.
This weed eater works really well for large yards and is my favorite Makita weed eater that compares to commercial landscaping power. It is definitely on the pricier side, but will truly last a long time. It of course has a sweet brushless motor and is backed up by Makita’s ridiculous power.
Yes, we were extremely surprised, too, when we put together our list of best Dewalt weed eaters. We honestly weren’t expecting much when we tried these out but WOW – they were seriously powerful.
Of course Dewalt is a household name in the power tool space, but they have truly mastered electric tools and translated that into the lawn care space. Similar to the Makita weed eater above, the Dewalt 20V Max weed eater is a really high quality weed eater.
We like Dewalt’s because you can buy the tool-only version if you already have a Dewalt 20V Max battery and save a ton of money.
I’ve used a ton of electric weed eaters and a whole lot of brushless ones. Every time I’ve used a brushless electric weed eater, I’ve felt a difference in torque and sustained power.
They outlast brushed weed eaters, are bigger and more powerful, and don’t get hot when I use them.
I’m super bullish on the future of brushless tools and brushless weed eaters specifically. While I’d like to see the price come down on these tools, I suspect most folks will have these in their garage.
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.
Why we review lawn tools
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.
Our jobs.
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.
Both corded and cordless weed eaters offer serious benefits over gas-powered equipment. But when you look at the two side-by-side, there’s a stark difference. I prefer cordless weed eaters, but corded weed eaters still have a solid place in my lawn.
They’re both electric but why do they operate so differently? Which one is better? Which string trimmer is cheaper?
We’ve tested DOZENS of corded and cordless weed eaters and have noticed a few things that make corded great for one crowd and cordless weed eaters for another crowd.
Let’s explain.
How I test out corded and cordless weed eaters
When I’m testing out corded and cordless weed eaters, there are a few things I keep in mind. The first part of my testing method is all about comfort and usability. There are some weed eaters that just fit better in the hands of some people than others. Another thing I look at is the weed eater string and cutting swath size. Those both indicate how much brush the weed eater can handle and how much power can be delivered.
Simply put: I use them a LOT.
I’ve tested dozens of corded and cordless weed eaters and have reviewed a ton of them on this site and my Youtube channel.
When I recommend a corded weed eater
Corded weed eaters honestly sound a little old school. I imagine using my corded weed eater with my Walkman and wired headphones trying to trim up my lawn while holding my Walkman flat to ensure the CD doesn’t skip.
Gotta love how light it is. Or how strong I am.
In reality, corded weed eaters still have a place in the 21st century. I love some of these lightweight corded weed eaters because they are incredibly easy to use and simple. In fact, for many first time homeowners or elderly folks, I recommend corded weed eaters. Here’s why:
Pros of corded weed eaters
Corded weed eaters are great for new homeowners and/or elderly folks because they:
Are generally extremely cheap
Fit small yards really well
Never run out of power
Require no maintenance
Are very light
But I don’t recommend corded weed eaters for everybody.
Cons of corded weed eaters
Corded weed eaters are simple and lightweight, but aren’t right for a lot of folks. Here are some cons:
Not very powerful
Tend to be smaller and weaker
Limited reach due to extension cord
Not attachment capable
When I recommend a cordless weed eater
Cordless weed eaters AKA battery-powered weed eaters are great for just about anyone. While they haven’t quite built themselves up to the power and run-time of gas-powered weed eaters, they still pack quite a punch. Compared to corded electric weed eaters, they tend to be much larger and more powerful on average.
Some cordless weed eaters that operate on a low battery voltage, like the WORX GT Revolution, are still reminiscent of our corded electric friends. The main difference is the ability to use batteries across other tools and to walk further away from your garage without worrying about an extension cord.
Here are my favorite things about battery-powered weed eaters.
Pros of cordless weed eaters
Cordless battery-powered weed eaters have some great features:
Cordless (duh)
Can use batteries across many other tools, saving you money
Longer and easier to navigate with if you’re taller
Cons of battery-powered weed eaters
While they are darn near perfect, they aren’t all the way there. Battery-powered weed eaters still have some weaknesses, such as:
Limited run time with batteries requiring re-charge
More expensive
Heavier
Still not as powerful as gas
How to improve the performance of an electric weed eater
When I first started using my electric weed eater, I was kinda bummed at the lack of power. One thing I realized quickly was that the lack of power wasn’t necessarily coming from the weed eater motor or battery itself, but the dinky string that came with it.
It’s freaking sweet.
From that point on, I was on a mission to find a weed eater string that unleashed the full power of my weed eater. That’s why I created the GrassKicker weed eater string. I tested about 10 other strings that were for sale at Home Depot and found the best characteristics of each and combined them into a single string.
When I first put it in my Ryobi weed eater, I was floored. It is a silly product, but man did it make a difference.
Corded Weed Eaters: My Recommendation
After using this weed eater for the first few years of my lawn care journey, I can’t recommend it enough to new homeowners. My Black and Decker 6.5A, 14 inch string trimmer was a reliable source of performance for many years. I called it “Old Faithful”.
Yes, this is not the flashiest weed eater, but it fit my modest budget in my first home. I also liked that it was corded because I could hardly remember to take care of anything and didn’t trust myself with charging the batteries.
This one is also super lightweight and despite being small, has a cool feature: you can turn it on its side and use it as an edger as well.
A contentious topic but one I don’t shy away from, the battery powered weed eater competition is muy caliente. So spicy that I wrote an entire long form post breaking down some of my favorite (based on experience) battery powered weed eaters. I broke it down into a bunch of different categories, but I am going to just share my absolute favorite.
The EGO Power+ Multi-Tool attachment system with the 15” string trimmer is my favorite. Here are the reasons why:
Basically, I use it for just about everything I do around the yard except for mowing. It is way more than just a cordless weed eater – it is a cordless EVERYTHING.
Corded vs cordless electric weed eaters: Which is better?
If I haven’t made myself clear at this point, you haven’t been reading. Both are great options, but I prefer cordless weed eaters. Corded weed eaters are still a great choice if you are elderly, have a small yard, or a tight budget. But cordless weed eaters have made such drastic improvements in power and usability that they are now freaks of nature.
Why we review lawn tools
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 test out tools.
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.
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 and battery powered weed eaters are superior to gas powered weed eaters.
Gas and electric weed eaters are two tools that can accomplish the same task: putting the final touches on your yard that make it look amazing. I own both a Stihl FS 56 RC gas-powered weed eater and an EGO 56V electric weed eater (among many, many others) and want to break down why I basically never use my gas-powered weed eater anymore.
Yes, it is controversial and I get a lot of comments from folks (especially commercial landscapers), but I can’t deny reality.
In all honesty, both are great options and have a bunch of pros and cons – so making a choice is personal preference. Today, I’ll break down my experience with both types of tools and which is the best for each type of operator.
How I tested both gas and battery-powered weed eaters
The short answer is: I used both hundreds (if not thousands) of times. I started with my gas-powered weed eater when I owned a landscaping company and used it as my go-to for anything involving trimming. When I moved into my house, I started using a battery-powered weed eater.
These are sweet.
Needless to say, I’ve dealt with just about every type of weed eater you can use. Tons of different gas-powered ones from folks like ECHO and battery powered and electric string trimmers that you’ve probably never even heard of.
When I put them to the test, It is usually a combination of power, handling, and ease of use that I evaluate.
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.
Maintenance comparison: Battery vs gas
The most shocking transition for me when moving from gas to battery-powered weed eaters was the lack of maintenance. If you’ve ever owned a gas-powered weed eater, you know that the maintenance schedule can be kind of intense. For example, below is the maintenance schedule for Stihl’s FS 56 RC (which I own):
I’ve got a headache.
Here is the maintenance schedule for my battery-powered weed eater:
Yeah it is nothing.
While I am obviously trying way too hard to be funny here, the fact is that battery powered weed eaters require zero maintenance. Yes, you’ll have to replace the weed eater string every now and then but I don’t consider that maintenance.
Gas-powered string trimmers are just tough to maintain – you have to mix oil and gas (which isn’t that hard), but also do things like replace spark plugs, air filters, and all the other moving parts that seem to want to implode all the time. For me, the battery-powered weed eater was so much easier to use.
Run-time comparison: Gas vs Electric string trimmer
Comparing run-times on gas and electric weed eaters is a little silly. When using a gas powered weed eater, you can refill the tank as much as you need and it can run forever. As long as you have gas, you have power.
It can run forever.
With electric weed eaters, it is more complicated. Corded string trimmers have unlimited run time as long as you keep them plugged into the wall and pay your electric bill.
A cord can keep this running forever.
Battery-powered weed eaters provide a limited amount of run time, dependent on the amp-hours of the battery (boring science stuff). You can have multiple batteries that can keep you running as well, so could theoretically have unlimited run time.
The real question is: how much run time do you need with a battery powered weed eater?
How long does a battery-powered weed eater last?
For most battery-powered weed eaters, you can expect a 30-45 minute run time.
Battery powered weed eater run time is totally dependent on the amp-hours (Ah) of the battery. Additionally, things like cutting swath, how thick of brush you are cutting, and weed eater string size can all cause fluctuations in run-time.
This Skil 40V has a great run time.
The higher the Ah on the battery, the longer the run time you will get. Higher voltage batteries, thicker weed eater string, and a larger cutting swath all allow for increased power as well, giving you the ability to cut through thicker brush for longer.
Comparing power on gas and battery powered weed eaters
When I first got my battery-powered weed eater I was super skeptical. As a gas loyalist, making the switch was pure blasphemy. I hid it from my friends and neighbors and was scared to use it for a long time. Which is why I still haven’t thrown out my gas-powered weed eater.
But boy, was I shocked by the power output on this thing. It can BLAST through grass and has virtually no difference in power from my Stihl weed eater.
My EGO weed eater.
But don’t get all angry yet – this isn’t true for every battery-powered weed eater. In fact, many are simply wimpy (say that 5 times fast). Here are two I recommend.
Two most powerful battery-powered weed eaters
The first most powerful battery-powered weed eater that I recommend is the Makita XRU15PT1 36V weed eater. It has the following accolades that make it a beast:
Three speed options (can help preserve battery life)
A ton of other Makita power tools you can use the batteries with
In short, it is designed just like a gas-powered weed eater and has a super trusted name behind it (Makita) that has been in the battery-powered tool space for a LONG time. It’s for sale on Amazon for a pretty good price.
The next weed eater I recommend is the EGO 56V Multi-Head system. It is the one the weed eater I use the most because it is so dang convenient AND extremely powerful. I drop in my homemade weed eater string and this thing absolutely rocks.
My edger attachment.
I not only use this as my weed eater of choice, but I also add the edger attachment and a few other attachments that make it darn cool. You can grab it from Amazon for a great price here.
Ease of use
Ease of use was the main reason I’ve started using my battery powered weed eater more than my gas powered one. Insane, already mentioned maintenance schedules aside, there is nothing more I love than walking into my shed and simply popping the battery on and getting started.
From a feel perspective, my EGO weed eater handles exactly like my gas weed eater. In fact, it may even be a little bit lighter. Either way, compared to my gas weed eater the trimming experience is about 7x easier.
Just slide it on and get to work.
With my gas weed eater I walk outside, make sure it has gas, press the bulb to prime the engine 5x, make sure the choke is in the closed position, pull the cord a few times and then hopefully get it started.
Battery powered weed eaters are so much simpler. For me, it is way easier to choose battery over gas when I know that I will get started way quicker.
Price comparison: Battery vs Gas Weed Eaters
For a decent gas-powered weed eater, expect to spend around $250-$300. For battery weed eaters, you’re looking at $300-350.
There’s a huge range in prices between battery and gas-powered mowers. In general, a comparable gas-powered weed eater is often slightly cheaper than a battery-powered equivalent. That’s because gas-powered weed eaters ON AVERAGE are more powerful than battery-powered weed eaters.
Since battery powered weed eaters are newer and have different technology, a high-powered one is often more expensive.
Which is better: Gas or Battery powered weed eaters?
In my opinion, battery powered weed eaters are better for homeowners and gas are better for landscapers.
Battery powered weed eaters are easier to use, require no maintenance, have a great run time, can be just as powerful, and don’t leave a gasoline smell on you.
Gas powered weed eaters often can handle thicker brush and don’t require recharging, making them great for moving from job to job as a commercial landscaper.
One day, technology will likely catch up and allow for easy recharging or really long battery life at a reasonable price. I predict most landscaping companies will be using battery powered everything in the next decade.
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.
