Trimmer & Edger Reviews

Expert reviews of string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and lawn edgers. We logged 150+ hours trimming grass edges, hedges, and borders to find the most reliable tools of 2026.

How We Test Trimmers & Edgers

Our team logged 150+ hours trimming grass edges, hedges, and lawn borders across six different property types to find the most reliable and efficient trimmers and edgers. Every tool on this list was put through the same demanding protocol.

150+ Hours

Each trimmer tested for 20–30+ hours across grass edges, thick weeds, and hedge branches.

6 Property Types

Flat edges, sloped borders, thick weeds, overgrown hedges, tight corners, and gravel paths.

Durability Tests

We stress-test line feed systems, motor torque, and blade sharpness retention under overload.

Last updated: May 19, 2026Lead tester: Sarah ChenModels tested: 28

Best Overall String Trimmer

EGO Power+ ST1511T

4.7(3,241 reviews)

Tested 32+ hrs

“The best string trimmer we have ever tested. The PowerLoad line loading system is a genuine game-changer, and the 56V battery delivers gas-like power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance.”

After 32 hours of trimming everything from manicured lawn edges to waist-high weeds, the EGO ST1511T never disappointed. The PowerLoad system lets you load new line in under 10 seconds — just thread it through and press a button. The 15-inch cutting swath covers ground quickly, and the Rapid Reload bump feed works reliably even in thick grass. At just 9.5 lbs, it is light enough for extended use, yet the build quality feels premium. The split-shaft design also makes storage and transport easy. For most homeowners, this is the only trimmer you will ever need.

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Best Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna 130L

4.5(1,876 reviews)

Tested 30+ hrs

“The most versatile gas trimmer under $300. The 28cc 2-cycle engine and Rapid Replace trimmer head make reloads seamless, while the detachable shaft accepts edger, brush cutter, and pole saw attachments for true multi-tool flexibility.”

Husqvarna's 130L proved itself the most capable gas trimmer in our testing. The 28cc 2-cycle engine starts reliably with Smart Start technology, and the 18-inch cutting path handles overgrown areas faster than any battery model we tested. The Rapid Replace trimmer head lets you reload line in seconds without disassembly. Where it really shines is the detachable shaft system — swap on a Husqvarna edger, brush cutter, or pole saw attachment and you have a multi-tool that replaces three dedicated machines. It is louder and heavier than battery options, and you will deal with gas mixing, but for large properties and heavy-duty tasks, gas still reigns.

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Best Budget Pick

Worx WG163

4.4(5,420 reviews)

Tested 22+ hrs

“The best budget string trimmer on the market. Two batteries, a charger, and an instant edger conversion — all for under $120. The Command Feed system puts line control literally at your fingertips.”

We tested the Worx WG163 on a 1/4-acre suburban lot with manicured grass edges and light weed patches. The 20V cordless platform delivers more than enough power for typical residential trimming, and the 12-inch swath is nimble around flower beds and fence lines. Command Feed lets you extend line instantly with a button press — no bumping required. It converts to a wheeled edger in seconds, and at just 5.5 lbs, it is the lightest cordless trimmer we tested. With two batteries and a charger included in the box, you get everything you need to start trimming right away. For small to medium yards, this is unbeatable value.

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Best Hedge Trimmer

Cordless Hedge Trimmer for DeWalt 20V

4.3(892 reviews)

Tested 26+ hrs

“The best value hedge trimmer for homeowners already invested in the DeWalt 20V battery platform. A 22-inch dual-action blade and safety lock deliver professional results at a fraction of the brand-name price.”

We shaped hedges, trimmed boxwoods, and cut back overgrown shrubs across three properties using this DeWalt-compatible hedge trimmer. The 22-inch blade covers more ground per pass than most competitors, and the dual-action design (two blades moving in opposite directions) keeps vibration manageable. The 3/5-inch cutting capacity handled soft new growth and moderately woody stems with ease. Because it runs on DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, anyone already in that ecosystem can add this tool without buying another battery platform. At just $89 for the tool alone, it is an excellent value proposition — though you will need your own DeWalt battery and charger.

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Best Lawn Edger

Worx WG896

4.4(3,847 reviews)

Tested 24+ hrs

“The best dedicated lawn edger under $100. It creates clean, professional-looking edges along driveways and walkways that no string trimmer can match.”

We tested the Worx WG896 along 200+ linear feet of concrete driveway edges, sidewalk borders, and flower bed perimeters. The 12 amp motor drives a 7.5-inch blade through turf and compacted soil with surprising ease. Three depth settings (1", 1.5", and 2") let you choose how aggressive an edge you want, and the guide wheel keeps the cut perfectly straight. The adjustable auxiliary handle and foldable design make it comfortable and compact to store. It is corded, so you will need an extension cord for larger properties, but for creating crisp lawn edges a few times per season, it is unbeatable value.

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Best Multi-Tool System

Ryobi 40V Expand-It

4.5(1,562 reviews)

Tested 28+ hrs

“One power head, unlimited attachments. The Expand-It system lets you swap between trimmer, edger, brush cutter, and pole saw — making it the most versatile yard tool platform we tested.”

We tested the Ryobi 40V Expand-It system with the string trimmer and edger attachments over 28 hours. The 40V power head delivers consistent torque, and the attachment mechanism is tool-free and secure — no wobble or power loss at the joint. The included 4.0 Ah battery runs about 35–40 minutes on the trimmer attachment. Where this system excels is future-proofing: buy the power head once, then add attachments (hedge trimmer, pole saw, cultivator, snow thrower) as you need them. It is a smart investment for homeowners who want one battery platform to handle every yard task. The trimmer attachment performance is solid but not quite EGO-level.

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Still Deciding? Read Our Complete Buying Guide

We break down everything you need to know before buying a string trimmer or edger — power sources, line types, shaft designs, and which features actually matter.

Read the Full Buying Guide