String Trimmer Buying Guide
Those cramp-inducing grass clippers of the Leave It to Beaver era have evolved, mercifully, into the string trimmer. String trimmers reduce the time and effort involved in yard work, which has landed them among the most popular and best-selling yard tools. Although simple in function, string trimmers vary widely in performance and neighbor-annoying noise, but Pronto’s String Trimmer Buying Guide will point you to the tool that you—and your neighbors—will love to use.
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the five
What are the five key points I need to look at?
Gas string trimmers
Gas trimmers are the most powerful, but also the heaviest, messiest, noisiest and most polluting. Gas string trimmers also require the most maintenance, but they’re the best choice if you have a large yard or thick weeds to trim.
Corded string trimmers
Corded electric string trimmers are not quite as powerful as gas trimmers and they are limited to the range of a 100-foot extension cord. Corded string trimmers are quieter, lighter, less polluting and virtually maintenance free.
Cordless string trimmers
Cordless string trimmers are the quietest models available, and their cutting power compares well to corded trimmers. Battery life is a concern, as most batteries take 24 hours to charge and offer only 15 to 45 minutes of operation. Consider getting a second battery to extend trimming time.
Shaft
There are two types of string trimmer shafts. Curved shafts offer greater comfort, better balance, lighter weight and easier handling than straight shafts. Straight shafts are better at getting into hard-to-reach places under bushes and decks. Look for telescoping shafts and split shafts that allow a string trimmer to use additional attachments.
String
The string trimmer you buy will determine the thickness and cutting width of the string you can use. Cutting paths range from 8 to 18 inches. Most string trimmers have a bump-and-feed mechanism to feed new string. Find out how complicated it is to replace the string and look for a narrow gap between the spool and the debris guard to prevent tall grass from wrapping around the cutting mechanism.
pronto pick
What product do we recommend?
Makita RST250 16" Curved Shaft String Trimmer
We like the Makita RST250 16" Curved Shaft String Trimmer. This gasoline-powered string trimmer is an economy model with high-power performance features. Its curved shaft design offers exceptional balance and a clear view of the working area and is well suited for slopes and hard-to-reach areas. This trimmer features automatic string feed and easy string replacement using pop-in string spool cartridges, while its vibration absorbing design allows for smooth handling.
experts say
Grounds Maintenance—“When making string-purchasing decisions, most manufacturers recommend buying a high-quality string-specifically an anti-weld or anti-fuse line. Because the string pulls when it hits vegetation, heat builds up inside the head and less-expensive string may fuse together and clog the unit.” Source: Grounds-mag.com
Popular Mechanics—“A rural homeowner with a long driveway, orchards, fence rows and outbuildings to keep neat is best served by a commercial trimmer. The power and reduced vibration these machines provide offset their higher cost. Commercial features such as a solid-steel driveshaft and a carefully balanced forged crankshaft reduce vibration; just as important, they improve the product's durability.” Source: Popularmechanics.com
This Old House—“While not able to saw brush, a 3-amp or better corded electric machine is powerful enough to clean up a suburban yard, provided you've got outdoor outlets and a long extension cord. Plus, it's the least expensive option.” Source: Thisoldhouse.com
hot buzz
What's the latest in the world of string trimmers?
If you need to use a gas string trimmer but cringe at the thought of the environmental impact, help is on the way. A new generation of overhead V-valve engines, including Kawasaki’s FX series, promises a boost in fuel efficiency of 15% or more, compared with traditional engines. You can also look for diesel engines and run them on renewable biodiesel fuel, if it’s available in your area. Biodiesel burns cleaner, creating less carbon exhaust, and you won’t void your manufacturer’s warranty as long as the biodiesel you use is certified by ASTM International.
Wallet Impact
What can I expect in my price range?
| Price | Description | Good Pick (see all String Trimmers) |
| $ | Budget string trimmers are corded and cordless electric models that are good for light trimming in smaller yards. Pay careful attention to cutting power in this range, as some of these trimmers struggle with tall or thick weeds. Compare charging times on cordless models and look for extra batteries included in the package. |
Buy now at Neighborhoodhardw... $39.99 |
| $$ | In the midrange, you’ll find more powerful electric string trimmers and some gas-powered models. Look for split shafts that extend functionality, replaceable string cartridges and wider cutting patterns. | |
| $$$ | High-end string trimmers are gas-powered models built for commercial use. Unless you’re a professional or have an exceptionally large yard, you’ll get good performance from a midrange trimmer. Features to look for include translucent fuel tanks, wheels and shoulder harnesses that distribute the trimmer’s weight. |
Compare prices at 2 stores $360 – $383 |
shop talk
What are the terms and definitions I need to know about?
Balance
The sharing of weight between both ends of a string trimmer’s shaft. The better the balance, the lighter the string trimmer feels.
Bump and feed
A mechanism that allows you to advance new string onto the spool by tapping the bottom of the cutting unit on the ground.
Debris guard
The shield at the top of the cutting unit that prevents cut grass and other debris from being thrown at the user while trimming.
Shaft
A metal rod that runs from the handle of a string trimmer to its cutting mechanism. Shafts can be straight or curved.
Split shaft
A type of string trimmer shaft that allows the trimmer spool to be replaced by other attachments for edging or cultivating.
Spool
The part of a string trimmer that holds the wound nylon cord. Spools can either be fixed, which requires you to wind replacement string around them, or replacable, which lets you pop in a new string cartridge when string runs out.
String
Plastic or nylon cord of varying thicknesses that spins at high speeds to cut grass and weeds. The thickness of a string trimmer’s cord determines the thickness of the materials it can cut.
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