Switching from Gas to Battery is Easier with the Latest Generation of Battery-Powered String Trimmers

Even if you’re not quite ready to pull the trigger on an electric lawn mower, cordless string trimmers are a much easier jump for most homeowners to make. Even Pro lawn care crews have legitimate options to replace gas models. What’s the best battery-powered string trimmer for your needs? We got our team together to determine top picks for a range of priorities.

Want to see our top overall string trimmer picks, including gas models? Check out this article!

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Overall

Best for Professionals: Husqvarna 520iLX Battery-Powered String Trimmer

When we’re talking about the best all-day, everyday professional string trimmer for residential crews, we love Husqvarna’s 520iLX. What helps it rise above other solid picks from Stihl, EGO, and Greenworks Commercial is its combination of lighter weight, extremely low vibration, and thoughtful feature set in conjunction with excellent performance. Other professional brands hit several of the same elements, but none of them put them together as completely as Husqvarna.

Price: $299.99 bare tool

Best for Homeowners: EGO PowerLoad String Trimmer with Line IQ ST1623T

EGO started back in the day with surprisingly strong performance for a cordless string trimmer with eye-opening vibration control. Since then, it’s only gotten better as battery and motor technology have improved. Add to that, automatic line loading with EGO’s PowerLoad feature makes string trimmers with it the easiest to load we’ve ever used. For 2022, automatic line feeding takes it to another level, setting the bar very high for any other brand hoping to compete for the title of the best battery-powered string trimmer.

Price: Price: $299 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Power

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer RY402110VNM

In case you haven’t noticed, Ryobi has been absolutely unleashed in the last year. The 40V HP Brushless lineup has been impressive, taking the Home Depot-exclusive brand to a whole new level in OPE. For the latest flagship string trimmer, that means impressive cutting power.

The combination of advanced battery and brushless motor tech lets you spin line up to 0.105-inch with a 17-inch cutting swath. It’s fantastic when you’re reclaiming overgrown areas or simply have a lot of lawn to maintain. It gets even better, though, because this model is also part of the Whisper Series, boasting 60% quieter operation than a comparable gas model thanks to specifically focusing on the pitch of the sound.

Price: $329 with 6.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Lightweight Battery-Powered String Trimmer

Makita ConnectX String Trimmer CRU03

Makita packs 30cc gas power equivalence into a sub-10-pound package with the ConnectX string trimmer. By shifting the weight of the battery off of the tool and putting it on a harness, you also get incredible runtime thanks to the 1200Wh of capacity you’re wearing. Makita isn’t the only brand to offer a backpack battery, but this combination of weight and performance is special.

Price: $419 bare tool

Best Attachment-Capable Battery-Powered String Trimmer

Stihl Battery-Powered Kombi System KMA 135 R

When we tested cordless attachment systems, none of them had the overall performance that Sithl’s 36V KombiSystem did. It was the closest one to using a gas powerhead. Now it’s even better with the launch of the KMA 135 R powerhead.

Even though Stihl doesn’t use a universal attachment mechanism, the brand’s list of available attachments is deeper than we’ve seen from any other. Plus, there’s Stihl’s extensive dealer and service network to support you after the sale.

Price: $359.99 powerhead only

Best Budget Battery-Powered String Trimmer

SKIL 40V PWRCore Brushless String Trimmer LT4818-10

This year, we set a price limit on our best budget battery-powered string trimmer recommendation. Capped at $160 for the entire kit, we looked for something powerful that also included the battery and charger. The powerful Skil 40V PWRCore Brushless string trimmer really impressed us with its value.

This battery-powered trimmer really fills a need for a capable weed eater that doesn’t go overboard on weight or price. With more power than 18V/20V models, it’s a good fit for budget-minded individuals. It also carries a 5-year limited warranty.

Price: $159 with 2.5Ah battery and charger.

Best Line for Battery-Powered String Trimmers

Echo Black Diamond 0.095-Inch Trimmer Line

Echo Black Diamond trimmer line is denser than others and has sharper cutting edges in its design. For battery-powered string trimmers, you can use Black Diamond 0.095-inch line that cuts like it’s thicker without killing your runtime. There’s some reduction because of the increase in mass, but not as much as when it combines with the increased air resistance of thicker lines. It’s the line we prefer on our gas trimmers and with cordless models being as capable as they are today, we’re able to on those as well.

Price: $14.99 1-pound package (253 feet)

More Battery-Powered String Trimmer Options from Brands We Trust

Best DeWalt Battery-Powered String Trimmer: DCST972

DeWalt sports an impressive 17-inch cutting swath on its latest 60V Max brushless string trimmer. It’s a 2-speed attachment-capable trimmer using a universal connection system, opening up more options beyond DeWalt attachments. With 5800 RPM on the top end (4650 in low), there’s plenty of speed and you can swap out the 0.080-inch line that comes pre-spooled with 0.095-inch.

It’s a little beefier than some models with the 3.0Ah 60V battery pushing the total weight over 11 pounds. The trigger grip section is also a bit thicker than most, so you might not care for it if you have smaller hands. On the plus side, there are three points for the attachment detent to lock into, making it simple to convert the trimmer head into a string edger.

Price: $249 bare tool, $299 with 3.0Ah battery and charger

Best EGO Battery-Powered String Trimmer: ST1623T

There’s a reason we picked EGO’s Line IQ trimmer as our best overall for homeowners. It’s so easy to use with excellent performance and smooth operation, that it can make one of the worst tasks enjoyable.

Price: $299.00 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Greenworks Battery-Powered String Trimmer: ST60L254

Greenworks’ Pro 60V line has a few options and we like the ST60L04 as the best overall balance of performance and price for trimming. It’s a smooth-operating trimmer with an easy-loading Load N’ Go head that uses 0.095-inch line and runs for more than half an hour on its 2.5Ah battery.

Price: $199.99 with 2.5Ah battery and charger

Best HART Battery-Powered String Trimmer: HLST051VNM

HART stepped up big time this year and now has a brushless 15-inch carbon fiber shaft model for its 40V line. It’s another attachment-capable option using a universal connection and is capable to whipping 0.095-inch line. Thanks to its carbon fiber shaft, the weight comes down a bit without sacrificing the strength you need for the job.

Price: $248 with 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Husqvarna Battery-Powered String Trimmer: 520iLX

From its lighter weight and smoother operation to its excellent performance, Husqvarna’s 520iLX is our pick as the best overall battery-powered string trimmer for professionals.

Best Makita Battery-Powered String Trimmer: GRU01

We realize not everyone is in a place to jump onto Makita’s ConnectX system. If you want high performance with wider OPE and power tool compatibility, give the 40V max XGT GRU01 a look. It has three speeds and tops out with a blistering 6500 RPM. Plus, there’s an Automatic Torque Drive feature that auto-adjusts the speed to match what you’re cutting. Even better, this one is just 10.4 pounds with a 4.0Ah battery, giving it an excellent blend of performance and weight.

Price: $289 bare, $439 with 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Milwaukee Battery-Powered String Trimmer: 2825-21ST

Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Quik-Lok attachment system still holds the top spot for the best Milwaukee string trimmer in our books. Its 2-speed brushless design does an excellent job on a wide range of grasses. Even though it doesn’t use a universal connection, the available attachments have done a fantastic job over several years of service with our crew.

Now that there’s a new commercial lawn mower, whispers of further Milwaukee OPE expansion are in the wind, so keep your eyes open in case something new in the string trimmer department shows up.

Price: $229 powerhead and string trimmer attachment, $299 string trimmer kit with 8.0Ah High Output battery and rapid charger

Best Ryobi Battery-Powered String Trimmer RY402110VNM

For all the reasons we already stated and more, Ryobi’s 40V HP Brushless 17-inch string trimmer is something special.

Price: $329 with 6.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Skil Battery-Powered String Trimmer: LT4818-10

It’s tough to find a brushless string trimmer under $150 that includes a battery and charger. Skil is one option and it’s a compelling high-value pick. It’s capable of using 0.080-inch line and we whacked down some pretty tall grass in Josh’s backyard when we decided to reclaim it. It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for a lightweight trimmer—it’s just 9.3 pounds with a 2.5Ah battery.

Price: $149.00 with 2.5Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Stihl Battery-Powered String Trimmer: FSA 135 R

Stihl was already doing a great job in the professional battery-powered lawn care department, but the 135 line takes it a step further with even better performance and durability. Comparable to the power the FS 91 offers, it’s matching up with one of Stihl’s workhorse gas models. The trimmer works best with 0.095-inch line and has a 16.5-inch cutting swath. It also comes in both standard and bike handle models, giving you a great option for clearing large areas.

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Buying Guide | What We Look For

Cutting Power

Three primary factors go into cutting power: line speed, line thickness/mass, and motor torque.

The faster the line whips around, the better the tips cut grass. Most battery-powered string trimmers are fine in this category. As long as you’re getting at least 5000 RPM, you should be in good shape. The top models are capable of hitting 6500 RPM and there is a significant difference in how fast you can complete your trimming duties at higher rotational speeds.

Shifting the focus to the line thickness, the higher the line mass, the more force it’s able to cut through thicker grass with. It’s like the difference between getting hit by a 175-pound safety and a 225-pound linebacker at the same speed. More mass equals more cutting power.

Most cordless string trimmers take 0.080-inch line at a minimum. We recommend 0.095-inch for the best all-around performance. If you have tougher grass or deal with overgrowth frequently, a string trimmer with 0.105-inch line lets you power through even better. Just keep in mind that line diameter has a direct effect on runtime—thicker line takes more power to run.

Finally, a motor with higher torque helps the trimmer resist slowing down as the going gets tougher. Even though trimming grass seems like a low-demand task, grass does push back against the line, causing it to bend back and eventually start to bog the motor. Higher torque holds keeps the head spinning better in tough cutting situations, even when its highest RPMs are lower than low-torque gearing.

Cutting Swath

Having a large cutting swath helps you clear large areas faster or gives you a more generous border for your mower. You need more power to run wider, though, and runtime is always a consideration. That said, in the past couple of years, we’ve seen the technology come together to give us solid options. Look for a 15-inch cutting diameter for most situations. Recent 16- and 17-inch models are a great choice when you have larger areas to cut.

Runtime

The average homeowner on a 1/4-acre lot only needs about 15 minutes of consistent trigger time to cover trimming. Most cordless string trimmers are able to hit that at high speed without too much trouble.

Professional lawn care crews need much more, though. So do homeowners with large properties and farm/ranch acreage.

If your runtime needs are greater, look for a string trimmer that balances the efficiency of a brushless motor, uses 0.095-inch line, and possibly comes with a higher-capacity battery. Of course, you can always carry multiple batteries.

Also, consider learning how to trim at low speed when the grass isn’t as thick. Even though you have to slow down a bit, you’ll cut a significantly larger area.

Vibration

We highly value low-vibration string trimmers. We already have enough work to do managing the weight of such a long tool without vibration adding additional fatigue. The harmonics in some of today’s models are so good that hardly any vibration makes it up the handle… and they are a joy to use!

Weight and Balance

If you’re working all day on a lawn crew or even just putting the finishing touches on your own lawn, you want the lightest weight you can get without sacrificing the power you need. Bare weight isn’t everything—the battery can add a lot. If you can get a fully-loaded battery-powered string trimmer that meets your performance needs and comes in under 10 pounds, that’s a big win.

Balance is a consideration and the trimmers that have the best typically mount the motor on the trimmer head to counter the battery weight on the back. Many models also let you adjust the front handle to help dial in your fit.

If you’re after an attachment-capable model, you’re stuck with the motor in the back, and the balance shifts back. For those and trimmers that are simply heavier by nature, consider adding a shoulder strap to help you out.

Sound Level

Low noise is one of the major benefits of moving away from gas power. Cordless string trimmers we’ve tested range from decibels in the low 80s to the upper 90s (measured at our operator’s ear). Even at the top end, it’s an improvement over the majority of gas trimmers.

Your line selection plays a bigger part than it does on gas trimmers. Sometimes, switching the line you use can reduce the overall noise level or change the tone to a less irritating pitch.

Line Changes

When you have to change the line, it can be an easy or frustrating process. Manual loading is largely a thing of the past, though some trimmers still have manual heads. To make the process easier, look for models that have some type of fast-loading system (SpeedFeed, Rapid Load, etc). With these, you thread the line through the head to the middle, turn the head to load it, and go get on with the work.

Regardless of what comes on the trimmer, you can upgrade most to a quick-load head.

The best on the market right now is EGO’s PowerLoad design. It takes the fast-load concept and adds automatic winding and gives us the easiest, quickest line changes we’ve ever had.

Attachment Capability

Pro lawn crews typically have dedicated machines for string trimming, edging, and hedge trimming, but homeowners can save a lot of money by using interchangeable heads and tools that cover everything from blowing to brush cutting.

As we mentioned earlier, attachment systems require a top-mounted motor that affects the balance. It’s a trade-off you have to make for the convenience you gain.

One thing to keep an eye on is the attachment connection style. Models with a “universal” connection can use attachments from other brands, opening up far more choices. Recent multi-head systems including EGO, Milwaukee, and Stihl aren’t compatible with others, so you need to make sure they have everything you need before investing.

The post Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Reviews 2022 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Green Machine Aluminum Shaft String Trimmer Offers Excellent Value

We’ve been exploring Green Machine’s 62V line of outdoor power equipment and so far, we’re liking what we see! Today, we’re turning our attention to the Green Machine Aluminum Shaft String Trimmer to see how it fares when the going gets tough.

Green Machine String Trimmer Performance

Cutting Performance

Green Machine uses a brushless motor to power this string trimmer. Using 0.095-inch line, it tops out at 6300 RPM on Sport mode. There’s also an Econ mode you can use for lighter trimming to conserve some runtime. 6300 RPM is excellent and paired with a premium line like Echo’s Black Diamond, this string trimmer makes quick work of thick grass and overgrowth.

As we expect, this model features a variable speed trigger so you can control the line speed if you don’t need the top RPMs in either mode. There’s a trigger safety on the left side. If you’re right-handed, it’s easy to press with your thumb and go. Lefties don’t have too much trouble, either. Even though having an option on both sides would be easier, it’s not a problem to access the safety with your index finger to get going.

Another helpful feature is that you can also adjust the cutting swath between 14 and 16 inches. The cutter on the guard comes in the 16-inch position. If you want a shorter length or to extend your runtime, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove it and flip it around. Like most string trimmers, this one also uses a dual-line bump feed head.

Runtime

Depending on which speed setting you use, Green Machine tells us to expect around 30 minutes of continuous runtime with a 2.5Ah battery. That’s plenty of trigger time to trim up most 1/2-acre lawns, even if you have detailed landscaping. Any of Green Machine’s 62V batteries work with this string trimmer, so you can always pop another battery in if you need more runtime.

Vibration

While we’ve certainly used trimmers with more vibration, there is a noticeable amount with this model. Of course, it’s still nowhere close to the vibration of a gas model, it’s just not challenging the best we’ve tested. If that’s a big deal for you, check out the carbon fiber shaft version of the Green Machine string trimmer as the carbon fiber absorbs vibration much better than aluminum.

Green Machine String Trimmer Design Notes

Size and Weight

This aluminum shaft string trimmer measures 70 inches from tip to tail and weighs 9.9 pounds with a 2.5Ah battery. Overall, this trimmer has a great balance because the brushless motor located in the head offsets the weight of the battery.

Line Changes

Any lawn care Pro or serious weekend warrior will tell you that line changes are the worst aspect of most string trimmers. However, Green Machine makes it incredibly easy. When it’s time to change the line, you just feed a section of your favorite one through the eyelets to the center and then turn the cap counterclockwise to wind it in. You don’t have to take apart the head and manually wind the line.

Green Machine String Trimmer Price

This 16-inch string trimmer kit is a Home Depot online exclusive and retails for $157. The kit includes a 2.5Ah battery and single port charger. Green Machine backs this kit with a 5-year limited tool warranty and a 3-year limited battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

Green Machine’s performance is excellent and it’s an easy string trimmer to use. What really sets it apart is its value. For less than $160 as a kit, it’s significantly less expensive than other models with similar performance. If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to switch from gas or corded models but the cost makes you hesitate, we recommend giving Green Machine a shot.

Click here to see the full Green Machine lineup.

Green Machine String Trimmer Specifications

• Model: Green Machine GMST6200-A
• Power Source: Green Machine 62V battery
• No-Load Speed: 2,500 – 6,300 RPM
• Weight: 7.0 lbs (bare), 9.9 lbs (with 2.5Ah battery)
• Cutting Swath: 14 or 16 in.
• Motor Type: Brushless
• Recommended Line Size: 0.095 in.
• Length: 70 in.
• Warranty: 5-year limited (tool), 3-year limited (battery)
• Price: $157 (kit)

The post Green Machine String Trimmer Review: Aluminum Shaft appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Greenworks 60V Battery-Powered Edger Gives Your Lawn A Manicured Edge

While many people prefer the interchangeability of a string trimmer attachment system, others prefer dedicated tools for each job. If you’re on the hunt for an edger, Greenworks has both styles. We put the dedicated Greenworks 60V battery-powered edger to work to see how we like it compared to the attachment version.

Greenworks 60V Battery-Powered Edger Performance

Like the majority of Greenworks’ 60V lineup, this edger uses a brushless motor powered by a 60V max battery. The combination turns a standard 8-inch blade up to 7000 RPM that’s easy to find replacements for at your local hardware or lawn care store.

As you expect with an edger, the wheel on the back is adjustable, giving you a cutting depth as high as 1.75 inches.

In actual use, it cuts confidently and its vibration is low. We were even able to redefine the edge on some pretty neglected driveway sections. If you’re looking for a gas equivalency, Greenworks is putting out similar performance to edgers in the 30cc range.

The tool is remarkably quiet. With the blade at full speed, we measured just 74 decibels.

Runtime depends on how hard you’re working the motor. In general, expect up to 60 minutes in light, dry conditions with that tapering back when you’re defining a new edge.

Greenworks 60V Battery-Powered Edger Design Notes

Size and Weight

Length is more of a storage issue than a use issue for this edger. From tip to tail, it measures 68 inches (5-foot, 8 inches). While the depth adjustment is primarily about cutting depth, it’s also helpful to adjust for your height. At 6-foot, 2 inches tall, I crank the adjustment all the way down so the motor housing doesn’t scrape the ground.

Bare, the tool weighs 10.5 pounds. If you get the kit, it comes with a 2.0Ah battery and that brings the total weight to 13.4 pounds. While we prefer string trimmers to be closer to 10 pounds fully loaded (that’s rare, by the way), edgers rest their weight on the wheel, so using this model doesn’t feel like you’re toting around a 13-pound string trimmer.

Controls

Simple yet safe is the name of the game with the control design on this edger. On the simple side, it has just one speed with a variable speed trigger if you want to feather it down some.

On the safe side, it has a 2-stage trigger to prevent accidental activation. As you grab hold of the handle, push your finger forward on the trigger to move the safety and then squeeze the trigger in to turn the edger on.

Additional Highlights

• Blade guard
• Rear debris guard with blade position indicator
• 8-inch curb wheel
• No gas fumes, emissions, noise, or maintenance

Greenworks 60V Battery-Powered Edger Price

Tractor Supply carries the edger with a 2.0Ah battery and charger for $299.99, but they’re out of stock at the time we’re writing. You can also order direct from Greenworks where they have the kit for the same price or the bare tool for $179.99.

The Bottom Line

Greenworks designed their 60V battery-powered edger to be exactly what it needs to be without overcomplicating matters. It looks and operates similar to a gas edger without the gas engine hassles. If you prefer a dedicated edger over an attachment system, get your hands on this one from Greenworks and give your lawn the finished look it deserves.

Specifications

• Model: Greenworks 2700103VT
• Power Source: Greenworks 60V battery
• Blade Size: 8 inches
• No-Load Speed: 7000 RPM
• Length: 68 inches
• Weight: 13.4 pounds with battery, blade, and handle

The post Greenworks 60V Battery-Powered Edger Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Brush Cutter Attachment Expands Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Quik-Lok Multi-Head System Capability

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Quik-Lok multi-head system has been around since 2019 and I still use it for my weekly lawn chores. From its string trimmer to its pole saw and articulating hedge trimmer attachments, it’s a capable piece of equipment. Now there’s a Milwaukee brush cutter attachment to go with the system, and that’s a big step forward in demand. We wanted to see how Milwaukee made the jump, so we loaded up and headed out to the farm.

Using the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Quik-Lok Brush Cutter

Milwaukee Brush Cutter Attachment

We’ve used plenty of gas-powered brush cutters in the past and were curious what Milwaukee’s design would look like. The attachment is straightforward: the shaft leads to an oversize shield with a 9-inch, 4-blade brush cutter below it.

The cutter itself has a lower overall mass than you might find on something like Husqvarna’s 545FR. That’s no surprise considering it’s a battery-powered brushless motor driving the blade and not a 45cc gas engine.

The attachment comes with a should strap that we highly recommend you use. It’s 3.66 pounds on top of the weight of the powerhead and your battery and not terribly comfortable to use without the strap for more than a few minutes.

There’s a hip barrier, too, but we decided not to install it for the work we had on tap.

Clearing Brush

Milwaukee gears this attachment to run at 4900 RPM at low speed or 6200 at high speed. Most of the time, high speed is the way to go, though you can drop it down if you’re working through thinner brush and want to conserve runtime.

Most of our cutting was on overgrown grass with mixed brush no more than 3/4 of an inch thick, and the cutter made quick work of it. It was more than a commercial-grade string trimmer could handle and even a trimmer mower with a beefier line would have had a rough time clearing the thicker stalks. Considering the area we were clearing was small enough that it didn’t warrant pulling a bush hog or brush mower out, Milwaukee’s brush cutter was the right tool for the job.

Pro Tip: Milwaukee’s blade is double-sided. If your performance starts to drop because it needs sharpening, flip the blade around and get back to work.

The big question is… what’s the realistic capacity for this attachment? As usual, the answer is… it depends. When it comes to small trees and saplings, Milwaukee rates it for 1 1/4 inches, though you can get away with a little thicker in softwoods such as pine. Harder species, you’re going to want to stick on the more conservative side of that number.

Milwaukee Brush Cutter Price

The brush cutter attachment retails for $149.00 and replacement blades are $29.97. There are a few other ways to get your hands on it at Acme Tools, though.

• Replacement Blade: $29.97 (49-16-2757)
• Attachment Only: $149.00 (49-16-2738)
• Pole Saw and Brush Cutter Attachment Combo (attachments only): $318.00 (49-16-2738-2720)
• Pole Saw and Brush Cutter Bundle with Powerhead, 8.0Ah High Output Battery, and Charger: $598.00 (2825-21PS-49-16-2738)
• String Trimmer and Brush Cutter Bundle with Powerhead, 8.0Ah High Output Battery, and Charger: $448.00 (2825-21ST-49-16-2738)

The Bottom Line

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Quik-Lok Brush Cutter attachment expands the system’s capability to cut denser overgrowth and help you clear out areas that are too difficult for string trimmers and not appropriate for a lawn mower. Because it’s part of an attachment system, you can add it to your Quik-Lok arsenal without the cost of buying an entire tool. Of course, with Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel powerplant, there are also no gas headaches to worry about.

The post Milwaukee M18 Fuel Quik-Lok Brush Cutter appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Cordless Hedge Trimmer Has Incredible Capacity

Over the last year, Ryobi has been diving head-first into high-performance cordless OPE. Joining the Whisper Series is the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 26-Inch cordless hedge trimmer. This trimmer has many familiar features but it’s the performance that’s raising eyebrows around here.

Pros

• 1.5-inch cut capacity
• Dual-action36-inch blades
• 180° rotating handle
• Hedge Sweep attachment

Cons

• May seem heavy if you’re used to smaller hedge trimmers

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Performance

Cut Capacity

One of the most noticeable features of this cordless hedge trimmer is the ridiculous 1 1/2-inch cut capacity Ryobi’s 40V brushless motor opens up. The only other battery-powered hedge trimmer we could find with the same cut capacity is the Stihl HSA 94 R on the Pro side of the market. Most tend to top out around 1-inch while there are a few 1 1/4-inch options available.

This is a big deal for a couple of reasons. One, it has the ability to handle larger branches while trimming. Two, this larger tooth spacing allows more material to smoothly pass through so the bar is less likely to bind up while making passes.

Regardless, it made trimming our hedges quick and easy.

There are two speeds to use with the 26-inch dual-action blades. If you’re not worried about conserving battery, the 3200 SPM top speed is the way to go. If you want to make that battery last longer, drop it down to the 2800 SPM low speed.

Dual-Action

This hedge trimmer utilizes a two-blade system that greatly reduces felt vibrations. On some trimmers, one set of blades remains fixed while the other moves. Ryobi runs both blades back and forth like scissors. In this way, both edges of both blades constantly cut materials between the teeth.

Moving the blades in opposite directions absolutely squashes vibration. Because one moves forward while the other moves backward, the net movement evens out resulting in a much smoother cutting experience. Plus, with no vibrating gas engine to worry about, you end up with a very ergonomic tool.

Noise Level

This 40V hedge trimmer is a member of Ryobi’s Whisper Series which cuts down the noise level of outdoor power equipment. While the motor is noticeably quieter than others on the market, it’s difficult to reduce the actual blade noise on a tool like this. Measuring from our operator’s ear, our SPL meter clocked this cordless hedge trimmer at 82 dB on low and 87 dB on high. That said, it’s still dramatically quieter than any of the gas alternatives.

Hedge Sweep

Ryobi carries over its Hedge Sweep that we’ve seen on previous models. It slides on a raised track on the top of the bar and helps to direct and clear clippings away from the top of hedges and shrubs. The best part is you don’t need to remove it when you want to replace the scabbard.

If for some reason you don’t like it, it’s removable.

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Design Notes

Size and Weight

The Ryobi 26-inch hedge trimmer measures 43 inches from end to end and weighs 11.3 pounds with its 2.0Ah battery. While it’s not the lightest trimmer on the market, it does have a really nice balance with that battery pack.

Handle Adjustment

We’re seeing more brands adding a pivoting handle feature to their hedge trimmers and makes good sense to us. It’s a simple feature that allows you to comfortably work at a variety of angles and makes it very easy to shape up your hedges and landscaping.

To adjust the angle, pull back on the release button, and rotate the handle. There’s 180° of total rotation with detents at 45° and 90° in both directions.

Ergonomics

Good handle spacing and weight distribution are key for using longer tools safely and effectively. It’s pretty clear that Ryobi had their 2.0Ah battery in mind when working on their design but we also found it feels pretty good with a 4.0Ah pack as well.

Both horizontal and vertical cutting is very easy and the wide front handle gives you plenty of grip options. Combine that wide front handle with the versatility of the multi-position handle and you’ve got a real winning team.

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Price

The Ryobi 40V 26-inch hedge trimmer retails for $329 and comes with a 2.0Ah battery, a charger, and a removable hedge sweep. Along with the accessories, Ryobi includes a 5-year tool warranty and a 3-year battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Ryobi 40V 26-Inch cordless hedge trimmer has plenty of power, cut capacity, and blade length to get the job done quickly and efficiently. With its larger capacity and excellent top speed, it cuts more like a professional-grade trimmer without the Stihl price tag.

Click here to see what’s NEW from Ryobi!

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Specifications

• Model: Ryobi RY40660
• Power Source: Ryobi 40V battery
• Cut Capacity: 1.5 in.
• Weight: 9.44 lbs (bare), 11.25 lbs (with 40V 2.0Ah battery)
• Tool Length: 43 in.
• 2-Speed Motor
• Bar Length: 26 in.
• No-Load Speed: 2,800 SPM (low), 3,200 SPM (high)
• Warranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery
• Price: $329 (kit)

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EGO Rolls Out Carbon Fiber On Newest Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer

Just a glance at the name “EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer” immediately raises questions. We haven’t seen anyone apply carbon fiber to a hedge trimmer so far. How does it work? What are the advantages? Are there any negative consequences? We’re taking a closer to see what we can discover.

EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer: The Big Deal

For starters, this is EGO’s longest hedge trimmer at 26 inches. Its previous versions are 25 inches and 24 inches (two models), plus they have a 25-inch commercial model and one for the commercial pole system.

Its dual-action blades deliver up to 3,400 strokes per minute to give you fast, clean cuts. We don’t have confirmation yet, but it appears the blade capacity is either 1 inch or 1 1/4 inches.

The major draw for this hedge trimmer is the fact that the rail is made of carbon fiber. This is an industry first, and EGO tells us that the carbon fiber design makes it lighter but still durable enough to stand the test of time. In fact, EGO backs the rail with a lifetime warranty, so there’s some confidence behind the build. However, there’s no official weight yet to know how much lighter it is.

Like the previous model, the HT2601 features a 180° rotating handle with five adjustable handle positions. Here’s a look at some of the features offered by the three most recent models side by side.

EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer Price

With this model launching in 2023, we don’t have official retail pricing or kit configuration info yet. We will be sure to update this page as more information becomes available.

EGO offers a five-year warranty on all of its outdoor power equipment.

Specifications

• Model: EGO HT2601
• Power Source: EGO 56V battery
• Blade Length: 26 inches
• No-Load Speed: 3400 SPM
• Handle Positions: 5

The post EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

By now you’ve probably seen commercials for trimmer mowers and they are absolutely useful tools. Can or should they replace your lawn mower, though? We took a deep dive into the design and uses of each to help you decide for this lawn mower vs trimmer mower comparison.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Design

On the surface, the comparison between a lawn mower and a trimmer mower is simple. A lawn mower cuts using a spinning blade and a trimmer mower uses a thick trimmer line.

There’s more to it than what each one cuts with, though. A lawn mower completely surrounds its blade with a deck while a trimmer mower only partially encloses its line.

Then there’s the drive system. Lawn mowers use four wheels, usually no more than 8 or 10 inches on the back and 6 inches or so on the front. Self-propelled drive systems can reduce the amount of effort you put into mowing. A trimmer mower uses just two wheels and they are oversized to roll well on terrain that doesn’t get as much attention as a typical lawn.

To adjust the cutting height of your lawn mower, you pivot the wheels so they either raise or lower the deck. On a trimmer mower, you change the location of your trimmer line up or down on the head.

One design feature that makes a big difference in how these tools are used is engine placement. A lawn mower’s engine is a direct drive and sits immediately above the blade. A trimmer mower has an elongated front section that extends the center of the head well in front of the engine.

Of course, lawn mowers have ride-on options that take their design to a whole different level. Trimmer mowers don’t, per se, but they do have tow-behind models making your UTV or tractor a ride-on trimmer mower.

There are a couple of things they have in common, though. Both have both gas and battery-powered options available (though battery-powered lawn mowers are far more widespread). You can also find electric start options for models with gas engines.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Cutting Characteristics

How well each type of mower cuts varies as widely as what they cut with. A lawn mower’s blade slices through grass and creates clippings. The deck design creates airflow that lifts the clippings up where they can be cut multiple times before they discharge.

Many lawn mowers have a 3-in-1 design. They can discharge out the side (which is great when you miss a cut and your lawn gets too tall). You can bag to leave a clean lawn or you can mulch to return nutrients back to the soil. Lawn mowers also have the advantage of choosing between standard, high-lift, and mulching blades to match the way you mow. Plus, there are dethatching blades, making your lawn mower a bit more versatile.

Trimmer mowers attack grass with the tips and edges of the line cutting through. Because of the open design of its deck, most grass is only cut once before the line throws it aside with enthusiasm. This leaves you with much longer clippings.

While there are some line options, they don’t affect the cut quality in terms of evenness or efficiency the way lawn mower blades do. It primarily boils down to the thickness and durability of the line you want and pairing it with the type of grass you’re cutting.

When to Use a Lawn Mower

Use a lawn mower for cutting defined lawns and other areas that are maintained regularly. If you need to cut more than 8 to 10 inches off, you’re getting out of range of what a lawn mower is designed for.

Keep in mind a lawn mower’s ability to side discharge if you’re cutting overgrown grass. Once you have it under control, you can bag or mulch to get that even, cultivated look back to your lawn.

When to Use a Trimmer Mower

Trimmer mowers do their best work in reclaiming overgrown areas that are too tall for a lawn mower’s fully enclosed deck. The height of the grass isn’t the question—only the thickness of the stalks. Thanks to the open front section, a trimmer mower is great for trimming under fences and into areas that a lawn mower’s deck and engine placement can’t reach.

Trimmer mowers are better for areas of field rather than maintained lawns. The trade-off for their much greater cutting range is a rougher finished cut compared to what you can get from a lawn mower blade.

Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower Price

While it may be a surprise, lawn mowers and trimmer mowers run in similar price ranges. You can find both in the $350 – $1000 range, though there are some lawn mowers that run on both the lower and higher sides of it.

One of the big differences is the availability of battery-powered options. You can find effective battery-powered lawn mowers running from basic homeowner all the way to commercial level with a lot of options and price points. Battery-powered trimmer mowers are much less common at this stage.

Want to know more about the mowers we used in this comparison? Check them out at DR Power Equipment’s website!

The post Lawn Mower Vs Trimmer Mower: When To Use Each appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Now That’s Using Your Head: EGO Brings Popular PowerLoad Feature To Multi-Head System

There are so many tools you need to have at your disposal to maintain your lawn well, and they can take up a ton of space. Multi-Head systems are a great way to have the right tools and reduce your overall equipment costs. EGO is no stranger to this concept, but doggone it, that PowerLoad string trimmer is awfully convenient. Now that the EGO PowerLoad Multi-Head String Trimmer is on its way for 2023, you won’t have to choose between the two.

EGO PowerLoad Multi-Head String Trimmer: The Big Deal

This is the first time EGO has paired PowerLoad technology with its 56V battery-powered multi-head system. If you’re new to the feature, PowerLoad automatically winds up your trimmer line, saving you the irritation of doing it manually. You simply feed the line through the trimmer head to its halfway point, press the self-feed button, and let go when the line gets to a usable length.

The big question is… how is EGO accomplishing this? The PowerLoad button is still near the trimmer head and it comes on a new powerhead model. However, attachment systems use a driveshaft to run each attachment and create an electrical separation from the power source. Our best guess is that there’s an additional electrical connection for both sides. We’ll dive deeper once we get one in our hands.

Despite this seeming wizardry, the powerhead is compatible with the full range of Power+ Multi-Head attachments, which includes attachments for cutting, trimming, clearing, and more.

What’s not clear yet is whether the new PowerLoad multi-head string trimmer attachment will work with the original EGO powerhead.

One other big change EGO is making is that both the powerhead and string trimmer attachment with a carbon fiber shaft.

Additional Features

• Up to 45-minute runtime with a 4.0Ah battery
• Quick-release adjustable handle for control and comfort
• 16-inch cutting swath

EGO PowerLoad Multi-Head String Trimmer Price

At this time, there is not much information available about this string trimmer’s pricing. We do know that your purchase includes a 56V 4.0Ah ARC Lithium battery. EGO also backs the carbon fiber shaft with a lifetime warranty. We will update this page as more information becomes available.

Specifications

• Model: EGO MST1603
• Power Source: EGO 56V battery
• Cutting Swath: 16 inches

The post EGO PowerLoad Multi-Head String Trimmer appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Easily Keep Your Hedges In Shape With The Green Machine 25-Inch Hedge Trimmer

We’ve run the gamut with the latest Green Machine tools since its launch and it’s time to move past mowing and string trimming to focus on the hedges. The Green Machine 25-inch cordless hedge trimmer has some familiar features and we put it to work around our shop to see if it has the performance to tackle your landscaping needs.

Pros

• Rotating handle
• 1-inch cut capacity
• Fast cutting at 3600 RPM
• Excellent balance

Cons

• Heavier than some of the competition

Green Machine Hedge Trimmer Performance

The Green Machine hedge trimmer utilizes a 2-speed drive—Econ for extended battery life and Sport mode for more demanding applications. The speed switch is located on top of the main handle, easily within your thumb’s reach.

On the top end, you get a solid 3600 RPM. Paired with the trimmer’s brushless motor and 25-inch dual-action blades it’s capable of cutting branches up to 1 inch thick.

Hedge trimmers are one of the most efficient tools in your lawn care lineup. With a 2.5Ah battery, you can expect to run up to 2 hours continuously. You can get more than 3 hours with a 4.0Ah battery, but the additional weight can be an issue.

Green Machine Hedge Trimmer Design Notes

Grip and Trigger

From the get-go, you can quickly tell that this hedge trimmer is set up for some serious trigger time. The 3-finger trigger is very comfortable and helps reduce hand fatigue compared to 1- and 2-finger triggers.

The front grip has an integrated presence bar for increased safety while trimming. They also include a trigger lock on the left side of the main grip which is easy to access during right or left-handed operation.

Green Machine did a great job with the overall design of this trimmer. The spacing between the two handles is spot on. The controls are extremely simple and easily accessible making it perfect for beginners as well as seasoned landscapers. You’ll spend more time focused on shaping your hedges well instead of where the controls are or how the trimmer works.

Rotating Handle

Rotating handles aren’t a requirement for hedge trimmers, however, they do help and we love ’em. When you’re trimming vertically along the sides of hedges, it lets you get a more natural grip on the handle instead of having to twist your arms and back to compensate.

To rotate the handle, pull back on the ring located just below the trigger at the bottom of the handle. You can then twist the handle left or right. It locks into any of five different positions with 180° of overall rotation.

Weight and Balance

While the ergonomics earn this hedge trimmer some high marks from us, it’s on the beefy side. As a bare tool, it weighs 8.8 pounds and when you add a 2.5Ah battery that number jumps to 11.8 pounds.

If you’re trimming at waist level this probably won’t be a big deal but you’ll really start to feel it when working above shoulder height.

In spite of the weight, the balance of this trimmer is impeccable. With a 2.5Ah battery in place, the bar and tool body feel well balanced which makes trimming a little easier.

Additional Features

• Compatible with all Green Machine 62V batteries

Green Machine Hedge Trimmer Price

Green Machine’s 25-inch hedge trimmer kit is exclusively available online at The Home Depot for $157 as a kit. The kit includes a 2.5Ah battery, single-port charger, 5-year limited tool warranty, and a 3-year limited battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Green Machine 62V hedge trimmer is a no-nonsense tool with plenty of power to take on your landscaping tasks. While it is a little heavier than some others on the market, the comfortable ergonomics and solid cut capacity shine through. These things alone make it an easy choice and the price tag simply sweetens the deal.

Green Machine Hedge Trimmer Specifications

• Model: Green Machine GMHT6200
• Power Source: Green Machine 62V battery
• Stroke Rate: 3600 SPM
• Cut Capacity: 1 in.
• Max Runtime: 120 minutes
• Bar Length: 25 in.
• Overall Length: 46.5 in.
• Weight: 8.8 lbs. (bare), 11.8 lbs. (with 2.5Ah battery)
• 5-position rotating handle
• Warranty: 5-year (tool), 3-year (battery and charger)
• Price: $157 (kit)

To learn more about Green Machine, click here.

The post Green Machine 25-Inch Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Move Up To The Husqvarna 525LST For More Torque And Cut Capacity

While battery-powered string trimmers are very clearly expanding across the country, many professional crews rely on the power and longevity of a gas engine. Designed for lawn maintenance professionals, the Husqvarna 525LST string trimmer aims to help you cut more in less time.

Husqvarna 525LST String Trimmer: The Big Deal

Compared to the entry of the 525 series, Husqvarna gives the 525LST string trimmer with some updates. For starters, the cutting width increases from 18.1 inches to 19.3 inches, giving you more than an extra inch of cut capacity than before.

There’s also more onboard fuel capacity, increasing from 17.25 fl oz to 21.98 fl oz (0.65L). A larger tank capacity leads to less downtime and fewer stops to refuel.

The trimmer does gain a little weight compared to others in the series, but it’s still under 11 pounds dry.

There’s not a ton of difference between the Husqvarna 525LST and the 525LS. If you’re considering the two, the LST has high torque gearing and that tends to be the preference among lawn maintenance crews.

On the environmental side, the X-Torq engine design reduces harmful emissions by up to 60% and increases fuel efficiency by up to 20%.

This is a connectivity-ready tool. If you take advantage of Husqvarna’s FleetServices or other digital services, the LST has everything you need to get started. There’s also an integrated service port, making troubleshooting with the Husqvarna Service Hub an easier task.

Additional Highlights

• Easy to reach choke and purge
• Stand-alone starter makes cord changes easier
• Comfortable, adjustable soft-grip handle with LowVib to reduce vibration
• Metal skid plate protects the engine and fuel tank
• Chromium-plated cylinder bore
• Twin-line cutting system
• Auto-return stop switch returns to the on position for easy startup

Husqvarna 525 Series String Trimmer Comparison

Husqvarna 525LST String Trimmer Price

The Husqvarna 525LST string trimmer retails for $399.99. You can find Husqvarna products at many online and brick-and-mortar retailers.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna 525LST
• Length: 70.43 in
• Width: 9.53 in
• Height: 8.98 in
• Weight: 10.36 lbs
• Power output: 1.34 HP
• Fuel tank capacity: 21.98 fl oz

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