If you’re in search of the best weed eater for the 2023 mowing season, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll guide you through the top picks in gas, battery, and electric weed eaters. We’ve thoroughly tested and reviewed the latest models available on the market, so you can make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks
Before we dive into our recommendations, let’s take care of some contextual business. Technically, Weed Eater is a brand, not a tool. The tool we’re referring to is a string trimmer. Similar to how Kleenex is a tissue and Sawzall is a reciprocating saw, the brand name has become synonymous with the tool type. Weed Eater, as a brand, focuses on the needs of homeowners, and this article specifically targets the needs of homeowners.
Now, let’s get into our top picks:
Best Gas Overall: Echo SRM-225
Echo’s SRM-225 is a string trimmer that bridges the gap between homeowner needs and professional quality and performance. It features an easy-starting 21.2cc engine and a 17-inch cutting swath. The stock Speed Feed 400 head makes line changes a breeze. This field-proven model consistently earns high praise from users. Plus, it comes with a 5-year consumer warranty.
Price: $229.99
Best Battery Overall: EGO PowerLoad w/Line IQ
EGO’s latest model is the creme de la creme in the battery-powered world. It boasts a carbon fiber shaft, PowerLoad automatic line winding, and automatic line extending with LineIQ. The 56V brushless motor delivers confident cutting performance, while the low vibration levels make it a pleasure to use. You can purchase it as a bare tool or choose a bundle with a 4.0Ah battery and charger.
Price: $219.00 (bare), $299.00 (with battery and charger)
Best Corded Weedeater: Black + Decker GH900
For those seeking affordability and simplicity, the Black + Decker GH900 is the best option. It’s a 6.5-amp model with a 14-inch cutting swath, offering more power than many competitors. The 2-in-1 mode with a wheel makes it easy to switch to edging duties. The automatic line feeding eliminates the need for bumping the head as you go.
Price: $99.00
Best Value: Skil PWRCore 40 Brushless
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Skil PWRCore 40 15-inch brushless string trimmer offers excellent value. It outperforms many 18V/20V Max models while maintaining a manageable weight and price. The quick-winding Smart Lond feature simplifies line changes, and Skil backs it with a 5-year warranty.
Price: $159.00 (with 2.5Ah battery and charger)
Widest Selection of Models: RYOBI
Ryobi is the go-to brand for homeowners, offering a wide range of options in both gas and electric categories. From gas options to corded and cordless models, Ryobi covers all the bases. Whether you’re a beginner or need a high-end, powerful model, Ryobi has you covered.
Now that we’ve covered our top picks, let’s explore some more recommendations from brands we trust:
Best Craftsman String Trimmer – V20 RP Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Craftsman offers a variety of corded, battery, and gas-powered string trimmers. The V20 RP Brushless model is a great choice for small yards or those seeking a lightweight option. It delivers excellent value, with a kit that includes a 5.0Ah battery, all at an affordable price.
Price: $149.00 (with 5.0Ah battery and charger)
Best Greenworks Weed Eater – 60V Pro 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Greenworks’ Pro 60V line offers several options, and the ST60L04 is one of the best at the $200 price point. It provides confident cutting with low vibration, all while being comfortable to handle. The easy-loading Load N’ Go head makes line changes frustration-free.
Price: $199.99 (with 2.5Ah battery and charger)
Best HART String Trimmer – 40V SuperCharge 15-Inch Brushless Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
HART’s 40V SuperCharge string trimmer is a high-performance option from the Walmart-exclusive brand. With a brushless motor, it surpasses 25cc gas models in power. It’s also an attachment-ready system, allowing you to transform it into a lawn care multi-tool with compatible accessories.
Price: $237.00 (with 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger)
Best Husqvarna Weed Eater – 320iL 40V Weed Eater 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Husqvarna’s 320iL is the first battery-powered string trimmer in the Weed Eater line. It’s a serious contender in the residential market, featuring a 40V power source and brushless motor. The lightweight design, low-vibration operation, and directional switch feature make it a comfortable and versatile choice.
Price: $169.00 (bare), $299.00 (with 4.0Ah battery and charger)
Best Ridgid String Trimmer – 18V Brushless 14-Inch String Trimmer
Ridgid enters the lawn care sector with a suite of products compatible with their 18V batteries. The lightweight model, including a 4.0Ah battery, weighs less than 10 pounds. Although it has a 14-inch cutting swath, it’s perfect for homeowner needs.
Price: $189.00 (bare), $249.00 (with 4.0Ah battery and charger)
Best Ryobi Weed Eater – 40V HP Brushless 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
Ryobi has been a longstanding player in the lawn care industry and continues to impress with their battery-powered models. The 40V HP Brushless string trimmer offers stronger performance than the competition, with the ability to handle line up to 0.105-inch. Despite its power, it operates 60% quieter than gas models, thanks to Ryobi’s Whisper Series.
Price: $279.00 (bare), $329.00 (with 6.0Ah battery and rapid charger)
Best Stihl String Trimmer – FSA 60 R 36V 14-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Stihl enjoys a high reputation for its string trimmers, and the FSA 60 R is a top choice for homeowners. Weighing under 10 pounds with the battery, this brushless model uses the AK battery system specifically designed for homeowner needs. It offers excellent performance and value.
Price: $219.99 (bare), $289.99 (with 3.9Ah battery)
What We Look For – Best Weed Eater Buying Guide
When choosing a weed eater, consider the power source, cutting swath and line size, vibration levels, weight and length, and price and value. Gas models provide the most power, but battery-powered options are catching up. Corded electric models are budget-friendly but require an extension cord. A wider cutting swath and thicker line size are advantageous for tackling larger areas and tougher grasses. Lower vibration and weight contribute to a more comfortable trimming experience. Finally, consider the overall quality and performance you get for the price.
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Pro Tool Reviews has been in the business since 2008, providing objective evaluations and recommendations for tools and products. Our team of experts includes tradespeople who extensively test and review products in real job site conditions. We consult with innovators in the industry, ensuring we provide trustworthy information that you can rely on. Rest assured that our recommendations are based on thorough testing and our honest opinions. With over 500 pieces of new content each year, we strive to provide our readers with reliable and valuable information.
Now that you’re armed with the best weed eater options for the 2023 mowing season, go ahead and choose the perfect tool to keep your lawn neat and tidy. Happy trimming!