Last updated on November 30th, 2021
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The Best Garden Strimmer Reviews
Our gardens are reflections of who we are and we definitely like them neat. Say you have been away on holiday and when you come back your garden looks a little overgrown, you will want to clear up the overgrowth without having to rely on heavy equipment like lawnmowers. This is where strimmers come in. These delightful garden tools take care of those pesky weeds and overgrowth in harder to reach areas. They are lighter to use, manoeuvre around your garden easily and can fit into tight spaces and corners.
Are you looking for the best garden strimmer for your strimming needs? No need to worry. We are here to give you all the information you need to select the best strimmer for your own requirement. In their different designs and sizes, you will get to identify their best features and which model to choose. We compared over 25 models including electric, cordless electric and petrol strimmers and narrowed it down to just 8 models. So let us begin.
BEST PICK
Check out my review of the Black + Decker 36V Cordless Strimmer after 12 months of using it here
Below are what we have found to be the best strimmers, and we have included these in our review:
- Black + Decker ST5530-GB 550w Corded Grass Strimmer – ELECTRIC
- Bosch ART 30 Electric Grass Trimmer – ELECTRIC
- Black + Decker GL7033GB 700w Electric String Trimmer – ELECTRIC
- Ryobi RLT1825LI ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer – CORDLESS ELECTRIC
- Black + Decker 36V Lithium-Ion Strimmer – CORDLESS ELECTRIC
- Bosch ART 30-36 LI Cordless Grass Trimmer – CORDLESS ELECTRIC
- McCulloch TrimMac 25cc Petrol Grass Trimmer – PETROL
- Hyundai HYBC5200 52cc Petrol Strimmer/Brushcutter – PETROL
Other products we have reviewed that may be useful to you
- We compared 7 of the best cordless strimmers to see which came out on top and reveal our top recommended model
- Got a large garden to strim? We look at 7 of the best petrol strimmers designed for tackling the most demanding jobs
Below you will find our top 8 garden strimmers and their concurrent features. These high-quality strimmers will help get your gardens and walkways in tiptop shape without breaking the bank.
Look out for our buyer’s guide to understand the specifications behind the products. We will also reveal why the Black + Decker 700w Electric String Trimmer was bestowed with the ’Best Pick’ title.
We start off with our top electric models followed by cordless strimmers and finally finishing off with our top two petrol strimmers before getting into our buyer’s guide and final conclusion.
Strimmer Reviews
Electric Strimmers
1. Black + Decker GL7033GB 700w Electric String Trimmer
BEST PICK
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The Black + Decker 700w Electric String Trimmer is one of the best corded models in this review and the winner our our ‘Best Pick’ spot. This lightweight but powerful strimmer comes with a mid-mounted 700-watt electric motor that can power through a fair amount of weeds and overgrowth with ease thanks to the thick 2mm cutting line also installed. The E-drive technology offers enough torque to improve the neatness of the cut and deliver all the power needed for most garden tasks. The lightweight design at just under 5kg makes for easy and quick movements.
The cutting swathe of this model is a decent 33cm. This size makes it adequate for small to medium gardens and if you are fast enough, you can cover a fair-sized area in no time. To know what you can cut through, you need to look at the cutting line diameter. The cutting line diameter of this model is 2mm, this is thick enough to deal with even the most demanding garden strimming jobs. The cutting line rotates at speeds of 7000rpm which also ensures a very neat cut when strimming the edge of lawns.
For creating the perfect edges, a wheel edge guide has been provided which we think is an excellent and useful design and is not often seen on models. It carefully guides the blade along your edges to provide an overall neat cut. The handles have been ergonomically designed to make certain that the user is comfortable, unlike most models the handles are adjustable and so is the telescopic shaft so that you can have comfortable reach.
The cutting line feeding system used here is automatic which we like to see. You do not need to spend too much time changing the cutting lines. The power cable provided is 10 meters, therefore, you have plenty of room to work with. You can use extension cords to further your reach, but be sure to use the correct one and unravel it from the spool to prevent it from burning through, which can happen when using them with powerful tools.
Pros
- A wide 33cm cutting swathe and high torque gear system for faster coverage.
- The edge guiding wheel allows for easy and even cuts along your edges.
- Adjustable handles and shaft for the perfect fit for different people.
- Telescopic shaft, powerful mid mounted motor all ensure its well balanced and easy to use.
- Comes with adjustable handles and shaft for comfortability.
- Heavy-duty 2mm cutting diameter line to deal with thicker overgrowth and auto feed system.
- 2 years warranty for full peace of mind.
Cons
- No obvious problems to report but there is a limited reach on larger gardens.
Our recommendation
The BLACK + DECKER 700w Electric String Trimmer is a well-made machine and it seems Black + Decker have thought of everything. It can effectively handle small and medium spaced gardens with ease making it ideal for most people. You also have 10 meters of cable so that you can go about without needing extension cords. The automatic line feeder needs a bit of upgrading but does do the job. Other than that, we did not find anything wrong with this product and being priced fairly we soon came to the conclusion that this strimmer is suitable for most people and so won the spot for our ‘Best Pick’.
If you want a quality strimmer at an affordable price you can rely on this model. The features are adjustable making it a convenient tool for short or tall people to find the right position. With the guard wheel, you will have nothing but neat edges. Overall an excellent strimmer that is worth every penny.
If you have a smaller garden and just need to keep the edges of your lawns tidy then our next contender (the slightly smaller 550w model below) might be better suited and at an even better price but with a slightly smaller 6-meter power cord.
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2. Black + Decker ST5530-GB 550w Corded Grass Strimmer
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The Black + Decker ST5530-GB Corded Grass Strimmer is a high-quality strimmer that you can trust with your landscaping and is basically the same as our best pick but has a slightly less powerful motor at 550w and a smaller power cord of 6 meters but all in all, it is a great alternative for those with a smaller garden.
The corded model comes in at 2.5kgs making it super light and easy to manoeuvre. The 6-meter cable (although shorter than our best pick) gives you enough room and reach to work with. The 550W E-drive motor supplies the cutting line with enough speed to work effectively and create neat edges which are handy. This model has a speed of up to 7500rpm.
If you have a small area to work with this, then this will be the perfect tool for you. The cutting diameter is approximated at around 25cm. Those weeds do not stand a chance considering that the cutting line diameter is 1.5mm, again slightly thinner than its big brother. It is important to note that this diameter cannot deal with weeds that have hard branches so be careful not to stretch its limit.
Depending on your fence structure or walkway you may require a very neat cut. That is why you want a model that has a cutting swathe of approximately 30cm. This specific model is designed to be durable and to get neat and straight cuts across your lawn.
This model is also equipped with auto select. Whether you decide to use the edging or trimming mode the speed will adjust accordingly.
For balance you have two handles to help control the strimmer. The second handle is adjustable just to facilitate correct positioning. The handles have a rubber coating to provide comfort and the shaft is also adjustable which is a big bonus to make sure that people of different heights can use this strimmer comfortably.
When the cutting line replacement is needed, this model does it automatically. The single line feed is easy to use and ensures that the cutting line is well-positioned and easy to extend when needed.
It also comes with a 2-year guarantee for full peace of mind.
Pros
- Automatic line feed saves time that the operator would have used using the bump line feed.
- Very lightweight at only 2.5kg therefore very easy to manoeuvre.
- The handle and the shaft are adjustable just to ensure that tall/short people find the right fit.
- It is compatible with the mower deck model CM100 making it multipurpose.
- Comes with an edge wheel for a neater and straighter finish.
- 2 year warranty for full peace of mind.
Cons
- Cable could be longer to enable further reach in large outdoor spaces.
- Automatic line feed could do with a little tweaking so as to be consistent.
Our recommendation
The Black + Decker ST5530-GB Corded Grass Strimmer is a great alternative to our ‘best pick’ for those with smaller gardens. The cable length will not let you go too far unless you get an extension lead, but if this is something you are considering then you might as well pay the extra for the 750w version that already comes with a longer cable. In general, this is a quality model but those who need something stronger need to read on to see a more suitable model.
We love that it is ergonomically designed and can be adjusted to suit operator height which we think is a huge bonus, especially for taller gardeners. The price is forgiving thus makes it attainable for those who need a good model at an affordable price.
Not to mention that it is lightweight and is probably one of the lightest models currently available. We approve of this product despite its few shortcomings as it gets the job done and is one of the cheapest models worth considering.
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3. Bosch ART 30 Electric Grass Trimmer
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The Bosch ART 30 Electric Grass Trimmer is a high-performance domestic strimmer that can help you get rid of that unwanted undergrowth with ease. The powerful 550W motor powers through to provide speeds up to 9500rpm which ensures even and clean cuts. The lightweight 2.8kg unit comes with an impressive 12-meter power cord to give you more reach when you have a larger area to cover.
The cutting width determines how long it might take to finish the job. The larger the cutting diameter the better and this unit has a cutting diameter of 30cm. This is more than adequate to cover the overgrowth in your garden. The cutting line diameter is 1.2mm which can only take care of soft growth. Thicker branches and vines will require a little more power.
Having adjustable features allows you to have options when trying to use the strimmer in comfort. The shaft on this strimmer can be adjusted from 80–115cm. Another adjustable feature is the 90° vertical edge cutting. This allows you to switch from trimming overgrown grass and weeds to edging the function for keeping those lawn edges in shape. You can adjust the angles in order to get the right cut which is a nice little feature to have.
Like the two Black + Decker models we have looked at this Bosch model uses an automatic line feed, making it convenient to use.
Forget about sore hands as you use this unit. The weight is balanced due to the provision of two handles, again like our best pick. The second handle can move so that the user finds the right fit despite their height. The unit is designed with an edge guard to make sure you cut neatly and in a straight line and basically does the same job as the wheel Black + Decker fit to their strimmers.
Pros
- Lightweight making it a breeze to handle.
- Edge guard design for straight line cutting for those neat edges.
- Comes with an adjustable shaft and handle features for comfortability.
- Pocket friendly for the features rendered.
- Long 12 meter power cord giving plenty of reach for larger gardens.
- Comes with 2 years warranty that can be extended to 3 years by registering online.
Cons
- Cannot handle growth with thick branches as the cutting line it comes with is only 1.2mm.
Our recommendation
The Bosch ART 30 Electric Grass Trimmer is a dependable tool that is suited to larger gardens as it comes with a long 12-meter cable which is twice that of the 550w strimmer by Black + Decker.
This is a great alternative to our ‘Best Pick’ if you have a larger garden and need the extra reach, however, if you need to cut through thick overgrowth we would recommend the Black + Decker 750w strimmer as it has that extra power and a thicker cutting line. If you have just edges of lawns to maintain this is a great choice and more than adequate.
Overall this is a great model and comes with 3 years warranty which is 1 year more than Black + Decker but don’t forget to register online to benefit from the additional 12 months.
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Cordless Electric Strimmers
4. Ryobi RLT1825LI ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer
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The Ryobi RLT1825LI ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer is one cool looking machine and one that comes at an amazing price! So amazing that we originally thought it was a mistake with the price. The model is lightweight, even when the battery pack is installed. The compact weight of the strimmer including the battery is 1.65kg which is very impressive.
The cordless comes supplied with 1.3 Ah battery and charger. Out of the Lithium-ion battery, you get up to 25 minutes of running time which is more than enough to cover a smaller garden. You will need a couple of battery packs if you have a large area to cover. Recharge time is three hours which isn’t had, however, it is only prudent to plan ahead in the case of constant work.
The cutting diameter of this model is 25cm, this is a little smaller than the corded models we have looked at, but again this is not bad especially when you consider it has been designed for smaller gardens anyway. This is strimmer is effective at handling small to medium-sized gardens. The cutting line diameter determines the thickness of foliage that it can handle. The cutting line diameter of this model is 1.6mm which cannot really handle heavy applications so be careful not to overstretch it. When you need to replace the cutting line it won’t take much time as the auto-feed line works brilliantly.
The ergonomically designed handles ensure its comfortable to use and are also very well balanced but we would expect no less from Ryobi. This strimmer comes with two handles that are non-adjustable. The shaft is also non-extendable but the height of the item won’t make you stoop so it is not too bad. Whether you are using the trimming or edging function you have all the control you need.
Pros
- Very lightweight at only 1.65kg therefore easy to manoeuvre.
- 1.3 Ah Battery and 3 hour charger supplied offering you greater value for money.
- Comes with a spool for self-replacement.
- Rating head so you can quickly switch between strimming and edging.
Cons
- Battery only last around 25 minutes from a full charge.
- Handles and the shaft are not adjustable making it inconvenient for some.
Our recommendation
The Ryobi RLT1825LI ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer is for those who need a good cordless strimmer for smaller gardens but at an affordable price. The strimmer has a cutting width of 25cm making it applicable for small gardens.
The battery is also limiting as it only lasts around 25 minutes although it charges fairly quickly. For a wide area coverage, you may need to invest in extra battery packs or a larger battery capacity.
What we love most is the lightweight feature of this unit. It is so light that people with back problems can use it without any issues. If you are looking for a quality cordless unit but don’t want to spend a fortune then this is perfect.
If you are looking for a cordless model with a little more run time and greater power then our next two picks would be worth considering. But is important to note that with extra power and longer run times comes an increase in price.
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5. Black + Decker 36v Lithium-Ion Strimmer
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The BLACK+DECKER 36v Lithium-Ion Strimmer is one to watch and a great improvement on the Ryobi model in terms of power. This battery-powered model comes with a charger and batteries so it is ready to go out of the box, simply charge the battery and away you go. The E-drive technology system ensures that enough torque is delivered when needed. This, in turn, prevents the foliage from clogging the machine through lack of power. The motor supports speed up to 8500rpm making the cuts precise and even. The recharge time is an hour and you get about half an hour of run time, maybe a little longer if run in ‘Eco mode’ when you are doing lighter strimming jobs.
People with a medium-sized garden will enjoy the use of this item. The cutting diameter of this strimmer is 30cm, which is pretty wide, and around the same as our ‘Best Pick’. The quality cutting feed diameter is approximately 1.5mm. Anything with a larger diameter will stress the machine so we would advise sticking to the 1.5mm. This strimmer can comfortably cover 2500 m² from a single charge so is plenty to cover smaller and medium-sized gardens.
The adjustable handles help adjust the user’s posture. It helps the operator balance the weight of the machine and the handles have to be comfortable to avoid sore hands. This unit at 3.5kgs is heavier than some other models so balance is important. The strimmer shaft is also adjustable letting you pick the best height to work with. Whether you are attending to your edges or trimming the grass, this model will serve you well. An edge guard will help those walkways look perfect and in-line and are a nice little feature to finish off a brilliantly designed strimmer.
Whenever you need to attend to light tasks and don’t need too much power, you can select the ECO setting. If you want full power, just switch over to TURBO for that bit of extra cutting power. For an easy time changing the cutting line, an automatic single line feed is provided. On top of this, you get a 2-year guarantee for full peace of mind.
Pros
- Wide cutting diameter of 30cm thus more coverage.
- Cuts up to 3750 linear metres in one charge which is around 30 minutes of strimming.
- Select between ECO mode for lighter jobs and TURBO for heavy-duty strimming which in terms saves battery power.
- Cordless therefore easy to manoeuvre as well as easy to maintain.
- Adjustable handle and shaft, therefore convenient for those with height differences.
- Charger and 36v 2Ah battery is supplied offering excellent value for money.
- 2 years warranty for full peace of mind.
Cons
- Line feed could also do with an upgrade so as to release the line better.
Our recommendation
The BLACK+DECKER 36 V Lithium-Ion Strimmer is a model we have reviewed before and actually won our ‘Best Pick’ award for the best cordless strimmer review in 2017.
It is a little more expensive than the corded alternatives but the features offered, however, justify the price and what’s more, a cordless model is actually excellent value for money. You get a strimmer that is lightweight, has a decent battery and comes with some great features.
Overall we think this model is one of the best available and is very well designed and perfect for small and medium-sized gardens. However, if you are looking for something more suitable for larger gardens then our next option below is a fantastic alternative.
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6. Bosch ART 30-36 LI Cordless Grass Trimmer
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The Bosch ART 30-36 LI Cordless Grass Trimmer is another cordless unit in our review and one that is designed for larger gardens and tackling more demanding bushes that a less powerful model would struggle with.
The Bosch strimmer comes with a more powerful 36v – 2.6Ah battery for longer strimming times (of up to 35 minutes) and a charger that can charge the battery in as little as 90 minutes.
As with most of the new Bosch tools it is fitted with their new Syneon chip. It has been installed to ensure effective energy management between the batteries and the motor.
At 4kgs it is not the lightest unit, but the design makes for effective weight distribution and it is still lighter than some of the petrol alternatives on the market. The ergonomic handles are well placed which make manoeuvring this strimmer a bit easier on the arms and back.
Most strimmers of this category come with an edging feature where the head rotates to strim downwards which is ideal for doing the edges of lawns, but this model doesn’t so is designed solely for general strimming. However, it does have a plant guard that ensures you can strim around plants and trees without catch the line of the plants and trees which is a great feature.
With a 30cm cutting with and variable speeds, you have complete control as you only use full power when needed which in turn increases the strimming time. The cutting line feeder is semi-automatic which means you don’t have to bump as you do with other models.
A 2-year warranty is offered with this product which can be extended to 3 years by registering online.
Pros
- High quality features thus facilitating durability.
- Comes with a powerful 36v – 2.6Ah lithium-ion battery for longer run times and faster charge time of only 90 minutes.
- Designed with variable speed so you only use full power when needed which in turn increases running time.
- Ideal for larger lawn and robust enough to tackle tougher growth and brush.
- Comes with a plant protector to keep the plants protected.
- Adjustable handles for easy manoeuvrability.
- 3 years warranty when you register online.
Cons
- Lacks an extendable shaft making it inconvenient.
- Cannot rotate the head to do edging.
Our recommendation
The Bosch ART 30-36 LI Cordless Grass Trimmer will cost you a pretty penny but it will be worth it if you have a larger garden and tougher growth to tackle.
We like that it has a plant protector which most models do not have. The protector will be a plus for those strimming around trees and plants, as strimming will often kill plants for obvious reasons and damage trees. The unit is not so light compared to other cordless and corded models but it still lightweight in comparison to some petrol strimmers that we have reviewed in the past.
We also like the adjustable speed as it lets the operator maximise the torque. If you do not mind the price for these quality features, then this is the one for you and you will probably have the best cordless strimmer we have seen.
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Petrol Strimmers
7. McCulloch TrimMac 25cc Petrol Grass Trimmer
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The McCulloch TrimMac 25cc Petrol Grass Trimmer is our first petrol model to make it onto our list. The standout feature of this model is the weight, at only 3.9kg it is as light as the Bosch ART 30-36 LI Cordless Grass Trimmer we have reviewed.
The 25cc engine will provide us with the much-needed power that we would expect from a petrol strimmer. The 2-stroke engine is effective not to consume a lot of fuel which ensures it is both fuel-efficient and cost-effective to run.
The cutting line width is 41cm and this is wider than most electric or battery-powered models, which means you can cut through more growth in less time. The cutting line diameter is 2mm, again this is more heavy-duty than cordless models which ensures that it can handle a thicker material than normal. For people with large areas to cover, this is the perfect strimmer for the job and it is also ideal for those looking for the lightest alternative to an electric model.
Sometimes starting a petrol engine can be tricky, especially if it has been dormant for a long time. That is why this model comes with an easy to start feature. A manual pump is provided to help in supplying the engine with fuel for a quick start and easy start.
The lightweight unit is easy to use due to the double handles provided. The handles can be adjusted to find the right positioning. The handles are also padded for comfort and firm grip. The curved shaft makes it easier to trim in tight spaces. Another great feature is that the shaft can also be dismantled into two for easier transportation.
For line replacement, the model comes with an automatic line feed. It will save you time and keep the cutting line in position. The ‘tap and go’ ahead feature facilitates fast line changing and therefore manually feeding the strimmer is not needed, simply bump the strimmer on the ground to feed the line.
Pros
- A 41cm cutting swathe for wide coverage.
- Very lightweight at only 3.9kg and well balanced.
- Ergonomically designed and easy to use.
- Easy to start and manoeuvre around making it convenient.
- Powerful 25cc 2 stroke petrol engine with easy start.
- Powerful quality features therefore long lasting.
- Comes at a very affordable price
Cons
- No problems to report.
Our recommendation
The McCulloch TrimMac 25cc Petrol Grass Trimmer has a wide cutting swathe which is perfect for covering large areas and is a great alternative to the Bosch cordless alternative for those looking for a petrol model that is still lightweight.
The cutting line diameter is thick and therefore can handle thicker growth than normal so if you have a thick bush to tackle this would be a better option. We love the dexterity of this unit and the adjustable handles.
If you are looking for an inexpensive and quality petrol strimmer then this is a great choice and worth considering.
If you still think you need more power then our final recommended petrol strimmer below should tick all the boxes.
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8. Hyundai HYBC5200 52cc 2-Stroke Petrol Strimmer
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The Hyundai HYBC520052 52cc Petrol Grass Strimmer is a heavyweight machine at 9.5kgs, so expect the power to be powerful. It is important to note that with power does come the extra weight. The 52cc engine is capable of running for long periods of time due to the larger tank capacity. The 2-stroke engine uses the 40:1 fuel ratio for the best results and a fast start.
With this product, you get two functions that you can select from. You can select between the brushcutter or strimmer function. The line feed is simply fed therefore is not a time-consuming task. You can switch the cutting line which is ideal for general, lighter strimming to the brushcutter for cutting back thick growth like brambles, nettles and scrub.
Adjustability offers options. A good strimmer always has adjustable features since the operators can be of different heights. This unit comes with an extendable shaft and adjustable handles for convenience. The handles are padded to provide cushioning against the weight of the strimmer and to absorb the vibration. The controls are placed at the fingertips for easy access. The handles are well placed to facilitate weight balance and easy manoeuvrability.
The cutting diameter of this model is 25.5cm for steel brush cutter and 45cm for the nylon line trimmer applications. The cutting line diameter recommended for this strimmer is 2. 5mm. This is wide enough to cover large gardens with ease.
Finally, it comes with a harness to help manage the weight of the strimmer. Not only that, the unit comes with a 3-year warranty that can be used in the case of any faults.
Pros
- Perfect for larger areas and the most demanding strimming jobs.
- Powerful 52cc – 2 stroke petrol engine for maximum performance.
- The bike-like handles (with controls) for easy accessibility.
- Delivered with a harness and other accessories to add value for money.
Cons
- At around 9kg it can be quite heavy for some.
Our recommendation
The Hyundai HYBC520052 Strimmer is a high-performance tool that will just about tackle any strimming jobs you have set in front of you.
We like the well-designed handles that let you steer the strimmer with ease. The harness will help you maintain balance all through as you work. The only real downside is the weight but with added power and performance comes weight.
You can trust the construction of the strimmer as it is very well made and is a decent piece of kit and best of all it comes with 3 years warranty.
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Our Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to strimmers, selecting one doesn’t have to be a hassle. Strimmers are simple tools that help you take care of your lawn and tackle overgrown areas. You can use trimmers in areas where the lawnmower fails at reaching. You can use trimmers around your walkways to give it that neat and professional-looking finish.
When in search of a strimmer you just need to understand what the features do. We will try to make it short and sweet. Here is what you need to know:
Types of strimmers
Basically, there are three kinds of strimmers that you can find on the market. The strimmers are categorized according to the model of the power system. You find petrol, cordless and corded models. Corded models are effective and lightweight making them popular in some circles and are the most popular for ease of use and affordability. Their only limitation is that the cord limits reach, unlike the cordless models.
The cordless models can be carried and used anywhere without interference. Their only limitation is that the battery running time will not carry through for long periods. This means that additional batteries are required for intensive work sessions. Cheaper models use 18v but higher range models usually come with 36v or higher. The higher the voltage the more power they produce and the higher the Ah rating, the longer they will run before needing charging.
Do you need power and the ability to strim anywhere? Look for the petrol models. They can handle heavier applications than regular electric models. The limitation of these models is that they are loud and tend to be heavy to manoeuvre, although we did find one brilliant lightweight model.
They also require a bit more maintenance. For heavy work 32cc and above is adequate to cover a large area. The higher the cubic centimetres (cc) the more power your engine gets out.
In truth, all models come with their pros and cons. It will all come down to personal preference, therefore, select wisely.
Cutting width and cutting line diameter
We will equate it to cutting grass with small scissors and large scissors. The larger scissors take less time to cut a wide area. In this case the wider your cutting width, the less time you will take covering an area. Small gardens work better with strimmers that have an average cutting width so as to avoid damaging other plants.
The cutting line diameter can be compared to using thin and thick string. The higher the cutting line diameter, the more it can slice through thicker weeds and foliage. For example, a 2mm line can take care of most of the plants around the garden. The thicker and heavier the work the larger the cutting line diameter should be. There are also strimmers that use blades to take care of the thick overgrowth. Be sure to look out for these.
Adjustability and comfortability
We come in different colours and shapes, so what will work for a tall person, will not entirely translate to a short person’s needs. A telescopic shaft will allow you to adjust the height of the shaft so that you can achieve a better stance. If you are super short, an adjustable strimmer will be convenient for you.
Adjustable handles allow the user to find a position where the wrists are not strained. If you look most models have a central and back handle. Padded handles are also a plus when it comes to strimmers. Vibration is unavoidable therefore padded handles help manage the vibration emanating from the motor. Avoid sore muscles by getting a harness if the unit is too heavy for you. Most models come with the harness included with the package.
The style of handles will vary and will be determined by personal preference. You can get the bike or loop handles. The bike handles usually have controls near the fingertips just to make things easy for you.
Adjustability and comfortability
Your cutting line is your blade and basically, it has to be in good shape in order to do an effective job. There are models with bump feeds that require you to bump a mechanism in order to release the cutting line. Others have automated systems that release the cutting line whenever called upon. The times when manual changes took time as well as needing tools is over. Depending on your budget and preference you can access all these models.
For your edging or trimming, you need a cutting head that is capable. There are fixed and adjustable models. The fixed head models are common and pocket friendly, however, they will not provide the same flexibility. For your edging functions, this is a feature that you need to consider together with the edge guard for a neat finish. Some models come with plant guards to protect the plants that do not need to be cut.
Price and warranty considerations
Spending power determines a lot in our world. Your budget will guide you to the type of unit that you can get. Basic models will only cost a few pounds while the larger units will cost you some pretty pennies. Look at the scale of work and the possible amount of power that you need and make a plan. Stick to your budget to avoid overspending.
The longer the warranty the better for you. The products that have warranties allow you to test out the product before committing fully. The warranties help you solve any production flaws that may prevent the unit from working well. Read the terms and conditions to know what can be covered.
Useful Strimmer Tips
- Make certain that you wear protective clothing to avoid any debris or accidents.
- The thicker the cutting line diameter the heavier duty work can be accomplished.
- If you are looking for models that are compatible with lawnmowers be sure to check the specifications for compatibility.
- For heavy units make sure you secure a harness for support.
- Remove debris after work to prevent future clogging incidents.
- For petrol models, maintenance and repair are a must to avoid engine troubles.
Final Conclusion
Strimmers are essential for those who need to clear long grass, brushwood such as brambles and to keep their lawns tidy.
Look for adjustable models that can conform to all of your needs. Curved or straight shafts are designed to work with different situations and landscapes so choose wisely.
The markings of a good strimmer are in the quality of the features. The higher the quality the better the durability. Whether petrol, corded or cordless electric powered, a strimmer will never go out of style. Remember quality over quantity and take not of the power, especially with electric models.
Below is a quick summary of three of our favourite models.
We chose the Black + Decker 700w Electric String Strimmer as the ‘Best Pick’ due to its quality construction and affordable price. The cutting width is 33cm and the cutting line diameter is 2mm. This makes it strong enough to cover a wide area with thick foliage and makes it one of the most versatile models.
A longer than average 12m power cord has been provided just to give you the extra reach needed for larger gardens. The features are adjustable making it appropriate for most users and it is lightweight to manoeuvre. With a few flaws but the good quality we think it will offer you value for your money and is probably the best strimmer for most gardeners for home use.
Our top recommended cordless strimmer title goes to the Ryobi RLT1825LI ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer due to its performance, lightness and affordability.
The 1.65kg unit is light to use, even for people with physical limitations. The unit comes supplied with a good battery and fast charger. Since it cannot run for as long as the corded models you will have to get a spare battery pack to use as the other charges.
Since cordless models are appropriate for light applications we think this will do the most justice. It also comes at an amazing price but it is important to remember there are more powerful cordless models to choose such as the Black + Decker 36v Lithium-Ion Strimmer if you have a larger garden or need a longer run time.
After much debate, we came to the conclusion that the McCulloch TrimMac Petrol Trimmer was the best choice for most homeowners looking for a petrol strimmer. This is because it is not so heavy and comes at an affordable price.
With a cutting width of 41cm, you will cover a lot of ground in a short time. The curved shaft makes for a good trim around taller foliage or corners. The unit is easy to store and transport due to the dismantle-able shaft. It can cover medium gardens with ease, therefore, we cannot ask for more.
Those looking for a reliable pocket-friendly strimmer will love this model and will not be disappointed.
Well, that’s it on strimmers. You can scour our other strimmer reviews for more information on prospective buys.
Do not complicate things by looking into too many products. Look at the work, make a budget and get yourself the best strimmer for you. All the best!!
Read our petrol strimmer review – click here
Read our cordless strimmer review – click here
Last update on 2024-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
