Not all lawn tasks are only for lawnmowers alone because certain tasks need a different type of tool, garden trimmers. In short, garden trimmers fill the gaps that lawnmowers are incapable of doing.
A garden trimmer is an essential tool for gardening. If you have no idea which garden trimmer to choose because you have limited knowledge of such things, it can be a risky situation ending with a possible waste of money.
This comprehensive article will guide you, in detail, through an overview of some of the best garden trimmers for this year of 2021. The extensive research contained here will provide you with additional (and lesser-known) information about garden trimmers to ensure that you are well-informed before buying one.
What Is A Garden Trimmer?
In a nutshell, a garden trimmer is a tool that efficiently cuts grass by trimming it to make it even and smooth. This tool uses nylon instead of a blade to cut the grass by connecting it to the propulsion system.
The machine will spin the nylon at a sufficiently high revolution, with enough speed to cut the grass without putting too much effort other than aiming it towards the grass.
There are three main parts of a garden trimmer:
1. the power handle,
2. a long metal body called the shaft, and
3. the cutting deck.
The cutting deck, where the nylon is located, is attached to a metal body long enough to reach the grass in a standing position. The other end of the long metal body is the power handle, where the user controls the pedal.
Garden trimmers are the best option for trimming complex terrain lawns, exceptionally long grass and frequently inaccessible weeds. Some people use them for edging to give the lawn uniformed border edges, but that requires some experience to master the job. You might as well train yourself after you bought one.
What To Look For When Buying A Garden Trimmer
Before buying a garden trimmer, the essential part is to know what to look for that will cater to your personal needs. Therefore, a lot of research was done, and insights from different garden experts were gathered. As a result of our fact-finding, the following information is a comprehensive guideline when buying a garden trimmer.
• Length of Shaft
• Type of Cutting Head
• Battery or petrol powered
• Hand Grips
• Power of the engine
• Extra functionality
• Other accessories
Always take note of these essential aspects when buying a garden trimmer. For example:
the length of the shaft, handgrips, and the cutting head is essential to have maximum convenience when using the garden trimmer.
Next to it is the power supply and machine capacity, which is also significant depending on where you want to use it.
While considering the extra functionality of garden trimmers, also think of the additional accessories needed.
After discussing the fundamentals of garden trimmers, let us now proceed to the best garden trimmers for this year:
Best Garden Trimmers For 2021
1. WORX WG163 GT 3.0 20V PowerShare 12
This battery-operated strimmer has a rated voltage of 20V maximum, with space for two powerful yet lightweight max-lithium batteries among the PowerShare family that can be used.
The runtime of this strimmer depends on the battery it uses, whether a 4.0AH or 2.0AH while it has a no-load speed of 7600 per minute. The cutting diameter of this trimmer is roughly 12-inch with a cutting length of 10-inch.
Moreover, the basic tool is only 4.6 lbs., which is lighter than a gallon of milk, making this machine maneuverable. Additional features of this strimmer include rubberized twin wheels for better grip and the innovative command system placing the control at your fingertips.
Before buying, be sure to check if the batteries and charger are already included. Some sellers only offer a tool-only version which means the batteries and charger are sold separately.
2. Greenworks 24V 12-inch String Trimmer
This battery-operated strimmer has a rated voltage of 24V with a powerful 2.0AH lithium-ion battery, enough to have a runtime of about 40 minutes.
The cutting path of this trimmer is 12-inch with a line diameter of .65-inch. It has a no-load speed of 8000-9000 RPM and a rotating head of 90 degrees with a three-position pivoting head.
Moreover, the 24V lithium-ion batteries of this strimmer offer an additional 20% more power and 35% more runtime. Another feature of this trimmer includes a wheel for walk-behind edging with an auto line advance system.
Indeed, this trimmer is capable not only for trimming but for edging as well.
Before buying, be sure to check if the batteries and charger are already included. Some sellers offer a tool-only version which means the batteries and charger are sold separately.
3. Greenworks 10 Amp 18-inch Corded String Trimmer
This corded trimmer is equipped with a 10 Amp motor that uses a cord to generate power from a direct electric outlet. Since it is a corded trimmer, it has no limited runtime. However, there can be limitations in terms of reach depending on the length of the cord.
The best thing about this trimmer is the attachment capabilities making it versatile, although you have to buy it separately.
Moreover, this strimmer is very lightweight and has an 18-inch cutting path. The line diameter of this strimmer is .80-inch spiral twisted with a cord lock feature for complete convenience while using.
The simple electric start of this strimmer provides the user with the feeling of easiness while working with this tool.
Before buying, please be aware that some sellers offer a tool-only version, and you have to purchase the attachments and the cord separately.
You don’t need to buy a battery for this one.
4. Black+Decker Besta510 String Strimmer
This electric-operated strimmer is the same as the previous trimmer in this segment, except this one has a lesser Amp. This trimmer has a 6.5 Amp motor but already enough to be tough on weeds and grass.
Despite its motor, this strimmer has a POWERDRIVE Transmission that makes it a total beast when trimming grasses, along with its Automatic Feed Spool system for hassle-free line feeding.
Additionally, the cutting path of this strimmer is about 14-inch with a 2-n-1 feature for trimming and edging options. It has a cord lock feature to prevent the cord from disconnecting, giving the users maximum comfort.
Aside from that, the adjustable handle and height position of the shaft makes this strimmer attractive among gardeners.
Before buying, please be aware that some seller offers a tool-only version and you have to purchase the attachments and the cord separately. You don’t need to buy a battery for this one.
5. Black+Decker LST300 20V String Trimmer
This battery-operated mower is equipped with a max-lithium 2.0AH battery with a rated voltage of 20V. This battery has 33% more runtime compared to the previous LBXR20 battery pack.
Furthermore, the standard features among Black+Decker trimmers are the POWERDRIVE Transmission and Automatic Feed Spool system that gives users utmost convenience and satisfaction when dealing with this tool. It has a 2-n-1 feature for trimming and edging options similar to the previous device.
The cutting diameter of this trimmer is 12-inch with a line diameter of .065-inch. As for the maneuverability, this trimmer only weighs about 5.7 lbs. with a no-load speed of 6200 RPM.
Before buying, be sure to check if the batteries and charger are already included. Some sellers offer a tool-only version which means the batteries and charger are sold separately.
Pros of Battery/Electric Operated Trimmers
• Lightweight
• Noise reduction
• Eco-friendly
• No distance limitation for battery operated trimmers
• Unlimited runtime for corded/electric trimmers
• Easy to maneuver
Cons of Battery/Electric Operated Trimmers
• Expensive batteries
• Corded trimmers can be a hassle at times
• Battery life
• Hard to repair
How To Use A Garden Trimmer
For starters, using a garden trimmer might be challenging for some people, but anyone can get used to it with a bit of practice. There are just a few easy steps to follow when using a garden trimmer.
1. Turn On The Garden Trimmer
You have to turn it on to use it.
Petrol-powered and battery-powered gas trimmers may have different starters, but what is essential is that you turn them on.
Note that there will be a little recoil, so first, get a good grip on the machine while starting.
2. Aim The Cutting Deck Towards The Grass
The next thing is to aim the grass trimmer towards the grass, but this process comes with a caveat:
2.1 Do not cut too deeply, or it will kill the grass.
2.2 When trimming the edges, please don’t go too near the shrubs or flowers because they can be easily cut and harmed.
3. Check The Ground
Checking the ground is vital to see if there are any signs of broken glass or other materials that could damage the nylon cord. If the nylon is damaged, replace it immediately.
An important reminder when using a garden trimmer is to wear pants to prevent the grass from hitting your legs during the cutting process. You can also wear sneakers to avoid the flying grass and gloves to avert any damage to your hands caused by friction.
Aside from that, I suggest that you stop for a while when other people are near.
Is It Easy To Repair A Garden Trimmer?
In terms of repairing a garden trimmer, it still depends on the type of trimmer you have, whether it’s a battery-powered or petrol-powered one. You have to remember that different brands have different builds of garden trimmer.
In that case, repairing a garden trimmer is not an easy task because it depends on the problem of your trimmer, and some issues require a professional touch.
The most common problems of garden trimmers are cutter failure or engine failure. This requires professionals to look over the trimmer because a layperson without any idea of solving the problem will only add more problems.
Nevertheless, there are ways to prevent your garden trimmers from breaking down. Here are the recommended steps in maintaining garden trimmers to their better state:
• Remove grass build-up
• Examine the nylon cord
• Lubricate joints
• Apply anti-rust chemicals
• Clean immediately after using
These steps will help to keep garden trimmers in their best condition. Be sure to follow such measures to also save yourself from spending more money on repairs.
What Is The Difference Between Brush Cutter And Line Trimmer?
There is not much difference between a brush cutter and a line trimmer except for their specific functions. In terms of designs, they are almost identical.
Brush cutters are intended for heavy-duty tasks like cutting weeds, tall grasses, and other foliage that are inaccessible by a lawnmower. Also, brush cutters use a blade to cut, making it ideal for cutting thick bushes.
Line trimmers, on the other hand, are simply designed for trimming the edges of your lawn. They are the perfect tool for giving your lawn that precise edge.
Unlike brush cutters, the line trimmers only use nylon for cutting since trimming does not need blades to get the job done.
In terms of power, the brush cutter performs better than line trimmers. This is mainly because brush cutters are designed for heavy-duty and long working range. Line trimmers are lightweight with the sole purpose of trimming edges.
However, this doesn’t mean that one is more useful than the other. Both of these tools have equal value regarding their respective functions in the garden.
Brush Cutter or Grass Trimmer: Which One Should I Use?
When you’re in doubt about which of the two tools to use, the first thing to do is determine the needs of your lawn. Again, brush cutters and grass trimmers have respective roles in the garden, so you have to choose the things you need to do in your garden or lawn.
If you have difficulties with weeds, tall grass, or small trees – go for brush cutters. They are heavy-duty and created for the sole purpose of cutting through things that are inaccessible by mowers.
Also, if your lawn hasn’t been taken care of for quite some time, use brush cutters to revive the grounds to result in a clean and beautiful condition.
If your problem is just about trimming the grass, then go for grass trimmers. Line trimmers and grass trimmers aren’t that different, and some gardeners use grass trimmers to trim the edges of the lawn.
Most importantly, grass trimmers are not suitable for taller grass, unlike brush cutters. Use grass trimmers to keep the grass even and prevent it from growing taller.
What Is The Difference Between A Grass Trimmer And A Strimmer?
After researching, we learned that grass trimmer and strimmer are the same. The term grass trimmer is used in the professional market that refers to the actual tool.
On the other hand, the term strimmer is a colloquial term used by gardeners, which is a shortened version of the professional term grass trimmer.
Don’t be confused when the seller uses these terms when you’re buying such a tool. People create names for various reasons.
Now let’s think about what to look for when buying a grass trimmer.
Can You Use A Strimmer To Cut A Small Lawn?
Using a strimmer to mow your small lawn is only a good idea if you prefer that method over using a lawnmower. Some people with a small lawn opt for a strimmer because it is less costly than a lawnmower. It is also lightweight and easy to control.
However, it still depends on the size of your lawn.
If your lawn is so small that using a lawnmower is overkill, then utilizing a strimmer is the best choice for you.
But a strimmer is not as strong as a brush cutter which means that it is not ideal if the grass in your lawn has grown long already. You can use a strimmer to cut a small lawn, but you have to do it frequently to prevent the grass from growing taller.
If you leave the grass to grow tall, you might need another mower to cut that tall grass in your lawn – even if it is small in size.
Nevertheless, using a strimmer to cut your lawn is not only for keeping the grass even, but it is also capable of trimming edges which is already a win.
For How Long Can You Use A Strimmer?
The runtime of a strimmer depends on the kind of tool you use, whether it is an electric-powered trimmer, gas-powered trimmer, or battery-operated trimmer.
These three major kinds of trimmers have their advantages and disadvantages.
1. An electric-powered trimmer can be used for as long as it takes you to finish trimming your lawn. However, this type of trimmer is only ideal for smaller lawns, so you don’t have to spend more on lengthy cords.
2. The size that a gas-powered trimmer can cover is dependant on its tank capacity. Typical gas trimmers have at least 10 Oz. of fuel capacity – enough to have a runtime of more than 30 minutes.
3. For battery-operated trimmers, the runtime hinges on the battery capacity. For a 20AH battery, you are looking for about 40-minutes of runtime.
Final Thoughts
We hope we’ve given you a lot of positive feedback that will be sufficient to help you select the right machine for the work you need to be done.
Fully armed with all this information, we wish you lots of fun in selecting your Garden Trimmer and using it to a good effect in your garden.
Jenny Marie
Tribal Writer
Edited by:
Patricia Godwin
