Key Takeaways
- A string trimmer lets you cut areas of your lawn a mower can’t reach.
- Some trimmers accept attachments to function as edgers, brush cutters, cultivators and more.
- Cordless trimmers are easy to start and maintain and operate without emissions.
- Corded trimmers are lighter than other types and tend to be less expensive.
- Gas trimmers offer extended runtimes and power to handle large lawns and tough trimming.
- For a lawn up to 1/2 acre in size, consider a 20- to 40-volt-max trimmer, a corded trimmer or a gas trimmer.
- For a 1/2-acre to 1-acre lawn, consider a 40- to 80-volt-max trimmer or a gas trimmer.
- If your lawn is larger than an acre, a gas string trimmer is usually best.
Why Do You Need a String Trimmer?
String trimmers cut areas of your yard you can’t reach with a lawn mower. They’re especially helpful for sections of lawn growing along a fence line, along your foundation or around the bases of trees. A string trimmer also helps you carefully trim around beds of delicate flowers or tackle a thick patch of grass or weeds that could choke your mower.
Some string trimmers can take on other lawn care tasks as well. You can find string trimmer attachments that convert an attachment-capable trimmer to an edger, brush cutter, cultivator, sweeper, hedge trimmer or pole saw.
Electric String Trimmers
Electric string trimmers are easier to start and maintain than gas models. An electric string trimmer motor runs with less noise and vibration and without creating emissions like a gas engine.
Cordless String Trimmers vs. Corded String Trimmers
Cordless string trimmers or battery string trimmers offer the same mobility as a gas trimmer and, with the right battery, can handle large yards and heavy-duty trimming.
- Models with batteries rated from 40 volts max to 80 volts max give you power for tough trimming jobs.
- Cordless trimmers with high amp-hour batteries let you trim larger areas before needing a recharge.
- Charging times range from 30 minutes to 2 hours or more, depending on the battery and charger.
- Trimmers that use the same battery platform as other lawn equipment help you maximize your investment in batteries.
A max voltage rating indicates the maximum voltage the string trimmer battery can provide when it’s fully charged and not under load. Voltage during normal use is lower.
Corded string trimmers provide constant power without the need to recharge or replace a battery. This type of trimmer is a good choice for small yards and light-duty jobs.
- Without the extra weight of a battery, corded trimmers are lighter than cordless trimmers.
- Higher amperage ratings indicate a more powerful corded trimmer.
- Corded trimmers cost less than cordless models, but require an outdoor-rated extension cord.
- A cord limits mobility and can be difficult to manage if your yard has trees or other obstacles.
A corded trimmer needs an extension cord that can handle the power the motor draws. Follow the trimmer manufacturer’s extension cord specifications and see our extension cord safety and storage tips.
Gas-Powered String Trimmers
Gas string trimmers are the best choice for large landscapes and heavier growth.
- Gas trimmers have power that typically makes them better suited for heavy-duty work.
- They provide all the mobility and runtime a typical homeowner needs without recharging or purchasing a spare battery.
- Some gas models are powerful enough to work as brush cutters with metal blades that can tackle heavy growth.
- Gas engines can be durable and last for years but require regular maintenance.
- Gas trimmers need fresh or stabilized fuel and can only handle 10 percent ethanol or less.
Find the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard Size
Match your trimmer type and power to your lawn size. Landscapes and trimmer capabilities vary, so use these tips as a general guide only:
Lawns Up to 1/2 Acre
- Cordless trimmer from 20 to 40 volts max
- Corded trimmer (with a nearby outdoor outlet)
- Gas trimmer
Lawns 1/2 Acre to 1 Acre
- Cordless grass trimmer from 40 to 80 volts max
- Gas trimmers
Lawns Larger Than 1 Acre
- Gas trimmer
Features and Specifications to Look for on a String Trimmer
- Brushless Motor: On a cordless trimmer a brushless motor makes more efficient use of battery power.
- Cutting Swath: This measurement tells you how much the trimmer cuts in a single pass.
- Telescopic Shaft: An adjustable shaft lets you set the length for comfortable use.
- Split Shaft: This shaft type has a coupling feature that lets the trimmer accept different attachments.
- Automatic-Feed Head: This head type feeds line as necessary to keep it at the right length.
- Edger Conversion: An edger feature lets you rotate the head to easily trim along driveways and sidewalks.
String Trimmer Mowers
Also known as walk-behind string trimmers, string trimmer mowers work well in areas that are difficult to reach with a full-size mower but are too large to efficiently maintain with a handheld trimmer. These gas-powered mowers feature a trimmer head mounted on a wheeled body, offering power, mobility and a larger cutting area than handheld trimmers.
All string trimmers require maintenance. Our guide to string trimmer maintenance shows you common steps to keep trimmer in shape.
Give Your Yard a Manicured, Professional Look With the Right String Trimmer
Find a string trimmer that’s right for your lawn on Lowes.com when you shop by type, brand and price range. Make the most of your investment by choosing an attachment-capable trimmer or a cordless model with a battery that fits equipment you already have. If you’re not sure which trimmer is right for you, visit your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate. They’ll help you find a model that you can use comfortably and that has the power you need to keep your lawn in shape.