Best Commercial String Trimmer Tested by a Professional Gardener. Commercial weed trimmer

Best Commercial String Trimmer Tested by a Professional Gardener

Rock walls, front steps, garden beds, fences – there are plenty of grassy spots in your yard that cannot be reached with a lawnmower. The only way to make sure your property looks neat all year round is to use the very best commercial string trimmer.

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To save you the trouble of having to go through hundreds of commercial weed eater reviews and tons of descriptions, I have compiled a list of top-4 products that I like the best and find most helpful both for personal use and for performing commercial-grade jobs.

Best Commercial String Trimmer Reviewed: Top-4 Products to Suit Any Budget

Here is my pick of the best professional weed trimmer models that will make short work of your lawn-trimming tasks:

MILWAUKEE 2725 – Best Eco-Friendly Professional Weed Eater

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Ever since I tried working the MILWAUKEE 2725 string trimmer last summer, it has been my second most loved piece of equipment for minor trimming tasks and more labor-intensive gardening jobs. Driven by a lithium-ion battery, the tool is not only every bit as powerful as the Honda model above but is also a much more ecological option.

This industrial weed eater boasts a perfectly balanced build that prevents fatigue after using it for hours, and its handle is long, so you do not have to bend over even if you are a 6’ guy. The brushless motor offers improved performance, and the 9 amp battery allows for around an hour of uninterrupted run time. Try this tool if you are seriously into landscaping and do not mind spending an extra buck on something this powerful and safe for the planet.

Echo SRM-225i – Best Budget Commercial Grade Weed Eater

This little fellow packs an impressive punch of helpful features like a highly efficient U-turn bump head or a full crank. Upon first trying it, I noticed how much easier its start was, compared to the models with legacy pull technology. It is not as high-powered as its closest competition but can still get surprisingly much work done in little time.

While not the lightest commercial string trimmer out there, the affordable price and stable performance make it a favorable trade-off. Consider paying Echo SRM-225i some attention if you are looking for an inexpensive yet capable unit to handle multiple commercial and residential gardening tasks.

Husqvarna 324L – Ultralightweight Professional Weed Eater

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Although I have held this tool only once, I do remember how impressed I was at the time with its rakishly powerful 4-stroke 25cc engine performance that would give 7000rpm at its top speed. The best features of the unit include an 18-inch bump-feed trimmer head and a comfortable grip. I like how well-balanced and stable it feels and how quietly it works despite the robust motor.

Compared to other straight-shaft commercial grass trimmer models, this one is super lightweight and does not give you terrible backache even after using it for hours. From what I hear, this Husqvarna unit rarely has carburetor issues, which alone is a good enough reason to try it.

Honda 647620 – Overall Best Commercial Weed Eater

There is a good reason why the Honda 647620 model has peaked at the top of my best string trimmer list today. I have been using this one for over three years now, tasking it with some heavy-duty jobs around the garden, and I can honestly say it leaves up to its excellent reputation.

This gas-powered beauty with a 4-stroke engine heart can do a wide variety of landscaping tasks – from regular trimming to clearing some seriously thick brush. Its dimensions are handy, although the 17-pound trimmer gets a bit heavy if you have to carry it around for a long time when trying to cover a large acreage. The thing that I admire most, of course, is how neatly and precisely it cuts. The trimmer goes through the thickest of grass like it is nothing!

I recommend picking Honda 647620 if you have an average-to-large lawn with many nooks and corners that need an extra bit of care and attention. It is going to be an investment you will not regret any time soon.

• Superb quality-to-price ratio;
• Durable and resilient;
• Great maneuverability;
• Top-notch shock absorption;
• Easy-to-operate.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a String Trimmer for Commercial Use?

Here are the five steps to take to have your money well spent when shopping for the most powerful string trimmer:

Step 1: Determine which power source it should use.

String trimmers can run on gas, battery, or a traditional power cord connected to the mains. The latter type is the cheapest, but it is distance-wise limited. Battery-driven units are quiet and ecological, while gas-powered models work the longest.

Step 2: Choose the right type of engine power.

If you want a gas-powered trimmer, you will have to choose between a 2-stroke engine unit and a 4-stroke model. 4-strokers are more fuel-efficient, have lower emissions, and produce less smell, but they are also more expensive.

Step 3: Do not go overboard with the cutting width.

The larger the cutting width, the faster you get the job done. However, while giving you a more generous swath, models of 14’’ and more are also harder-to-manage.

Step 4: Test various brands for durability.

The durability of a model depends on its build quality. The best-known manufacturers with excellent products are Honda, Echo, Husqvarna, Milwaukee, EGO, Makita, and DeWALT.

Step 5: Decide on the acceptable noise level.

Battery-operated trimmers are the quietest. Gas-powered models and corded electrical units compare to each other in the levels of noise they produce.

FAQ on Commercial String Trimmers

Here are some more things about top-rated commercial weed eater models worth mentioning:

Is a straight shaft string trimmer better for commercial use?

Curved shaft trimmers are suitable for shorter users who need a maneuverable tool to care for smaller areas. Straight shaft trimmers will be handy when completing longer or more extensive commercial trimming jobs.

Can I use battery-powered units?

You can use trimmers powered by lithium-ion batteries since they are powerful, quiet, eco-friendly, and durable.

What are the safety precautions for string trimmer?

One should always opt for long pants, closed footwear, safety goggles, and gloves when using a string trimmer.

Summing Up: Choose Wisely

If you cannot decide which string trimmer to go for, I recommend sticking with Honda 647620. This functional, reliable, and reasonably priced unit deserves every bit of praise it is getting from the users.

What grass trimmer do you choose? Are you satisfied with its features and overall performance? I would love to get your feedback, so feel free to share your thoughts in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев!

Bryan Mckenzie

Hi there — my name is Bryan McKenzie. Before I’d got into gardening, I worked as a landscape designer at landscape design and consultation company in Jacksonville. I enjoy sharing the vast gardening experience I’ve accumulated throughout the years with like-minded green thumbs. Read more about me and my wife.

Gas-Powered vs. Battery-Powered Weed Eaters

Do the loud noises from neighborhood lawn equipment ruin your quiet Saturday? Or are you more, “Give me power at any cost?” These are things you’ll need to consider when choosing between gas vs. battery-powered weed eaters.

Battery-powered and gas-powered weed eaters do the same job, so you may wonder, “What’s the difference?” Actually, power sources mean big differences in the use and performance of machines. Before you buy a weed eater, you want to know what type of machine will serve your lawn most efficiently and whether or not the noise or gas smell will bother you.

We’ll discuss the pros and cons of gas-powered vs. battery-powered weed eaters to help you decide which is best for your lawn.

• Why do I need a weed eater?
• Essential weed eater terms
• Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters
• Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters
• Which is the best weed eater for me?
• FAQ about weed eaters

Why do I need a weed eater?

Weed eaters are an indispensable power tool in the DIY lawn maintenance tool kit. These handy machines help homeowners and lawn pros cut down grass and weeds in areas that a lawn mower just won’t reach.

If you have a drain ditch in your lawn or a steep slope, a weed eater will keep the grass looking nice and neat. These machines also create that professional, finished look when you use them to create clean lines around the edge of your lawn and flower beds.

Believe it or not, battery- and gas-powered machines aren’t the only types of weed eaters on the market. You’ll also see electric string trimmers (AKA corded models that require an extension cord) and even propane weed eaters.

Electric models are popular in very small, “postage stamp” lawns, and propane models perform as well as gas. While it’s good to know there are other options, we’ll FOCUS on the more popular gas-powered and cordless models in this article.

Not only do weed eaters accomplish many lawn tasks, but they also have many names:

• Weed whacker (or weed wacker)
• Whipper snipper
• Weed trimmer
• String trimmer
• Strimmer
• Weed whipper
• Line trimmer
• Grass trimmer

They all mean the same thing and do the same job. Here are a few brands you’re probably familiar with:

Essential weed eater terms

If you’re a weed eater novice, here are a few terms and components to familiarize yourself with as you do your research:

Power source

Gas models rely on gas and oil to power the engine. Battery-powered models rely on batteries — usually a lithium-ion battery. Both types offer brushless motors as well. Brushless motors are more efficient and less noisy than brushed motors. If you’re concerned about cost, though, know that the brushless motors are more expensive.

Best commercial weed eater for this month

When you look at these power sources, gas models will label motor power in cubic centimeters (cc) and battery models will label it in volts (24V). The higher the number, the more power they offer.

Battery-powered models work well on lawns up to an acre, depending on your level of power. Use a machine with 20-40 volts for up to ½ acre, or from 40-80 volts for up to an acre. If your lawn is over an acre, you may want to consider a gas-powered machine.

Also, pay attention to rpm (revolutions per minute). Some will have a variable speed option as well (3,500 rpm, 5,300 rpm, 6,500 rpm) to save battery power. The higher rpm, the better the line will cut through thicker material.

Line feed

There are four types of feed systems: bump feed, auto-feed, command feed, and fixed-line feed. The purpose of the feed system is to release more line when you’re running low.

• Bump feed: Tap the machine on the ground a few times while it’s running to get a longer string. This system is quick and easy and, if you’ve removed the guard, it gives you control over the length of your line.

• Auto-feed: The trimmer uses its own “brain” to release more line when the line is too short. This system is convenient but gives the operator less control over the length of the line.

• Command feed: When you run low on line, simply push a button or turn a dial, and the feed mechanism will release more line. This is similar to the bump feed because you can make your line as short or long as you wish.

• Fixed-line system: Buy pre-measured segments of line to load into the feed mechanism when your line runs low. This system works with fixed-line heads to load a pre-cut length of line into the machine. These heads are often ideal for heavy-duty trimmers that require thicker string.

Trimmer line (or blade)

Different trimmers will accept different trimmer line widths. (Trimmer line is the string that does all of the cutting.) Some battery-powered models accept slightly thinner line widths than gas models. Some trimmers come with the option to buy blades for tougher jobs.

Handle

You can choose from two main types of handles: loop handles or bicycle (AKA “bullhorn”) handles. Loop handles are most common on residential weed eaters. Bicycle handles may be more comfortable for larger, longer, brush clearing jobs. Try both types to see which feels more comfortable for you.

Shaft

Weed eaters come with curved shafts or straight shafts. Curved shafts are for light use on a residential property, and they are great for beginners. Straight shafts are for more strenuous commercial work and sometimes come with the option to buy a blade or other accessories. Straight shaft trimmers are also easier to get under bushes. Curved-shaft models are less expensive overall.

Debris guard/deflector

If you have lots of brush or rocks in your lawn, pay attention to the size of your debris guard on the back of the head. Some are larger than others. You’ll want to invest in a model with a larger deflector (or purchase a kit) if this is a concern for you. Some models also come with a flip-down edge guard in the front that ensures you don’t get too close to trees and other plants.

Operator controls

After you’ve started the engine, you may wonder, “How do I spin the line?” There are often two control buttons above the handle. Why are there two? One acts as a safety. For example, if you mistakenly press one while you are holding the machine, the line won’t run (and you’ll be less likely to cut something unintentionally). So, when you’re ready to start weed eating, press both control buttons to spin the line.

Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters

Gas-powered string trimmers are the “old guard” of the string trimmer world. They’ve been around much longer than battery or electric weed eaters and have a good track record of reliable performance. Here are some pros and cons of these machines.

✓ Delivers commercial-level, all-day performance✓ Sufficient power for large properties or many properties✓ Handles tall grass and overgrowth with ease✓ Preferred choice of pros✓ Can be repaired ✓ Consistent power throughout use✓ Easy to carry gasoline with you

✗ Gas engine requires maintenance✗ Exhaust emissions may have adverse effects on people and air quality✗ Noisy to operate✗ Engine can become gummed up with old fuel or fuel without proper stabilizer ✗ Pull starters can be difficult for some homeowners✗ Gas and oil can be messy to work with

Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters

Battery-powered weed eaters (AKA cordless weed eaters) are the (relatively) new kid on the weed whacking block, but they’ve made quite an impression on many homeowners. Many residential customers enjoy their quiet, emission-free operation and sufficient run time.

✓ Does a sufficient job for a small property or a single property✓ No engine to maintain✓ Batteries swap out easily if you run out of power✓ Very low noise✓ No gas or oil to replace✓ Easier to start — no pull cord✓ No fumes✓ Can use batteries from other machines from the same brand✓ No emissions

✗ Battery power dilemma — Need a recharging station if you want to weed eat all day (or have tons of batteries)

✗ Battery run time✗ Battery recharge time✗ Hard to find someone to repair✗ Power fades as battery life fades✗ Rechargeable batteries and charger may not come with the unit

Which is the best weed eater for me?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you make a decision:

What size property do you have? Smaller residential properties are ideal for battery-powered weed eaters. Larger properties not only have more space but are likely to have taller grass and brush, so gas-powered trimmers may be a better fit.

How do you plan to use the weed eater? Unless you’ve built your lawn care business around being an all-electric provider, you’ll need at least one gas weed eater in your arsenal. If the machine will only be for you as a homeowner, a battery-powered model has plenty of power.

What level of engine care are you willing to do? Gas-powered models require you to get your hands dirty. You’ll need a constant supply of gas and oil, and you’ll need to winterize it before you put it away for the off-season. If you’re not willing to do this, go with a battery-powered model.

What kind of attachments do you need? Before you make a purchase, look into which attachments (if any) your top pick offers. Common attachments include hedge trimmers, pole saws, edgers, and cultivators. Attachments save space and money and are a good investment for many customers.

Both gas string trimmers and cordless string trimmers come with a few models that are dual brush cutter/trimmers. This gives you many more options for ways to use your trimmer.

Physical considerations: As you’re shopping around, pay attention to the weight of the machine. If you don’t like to carry around heavy machinery for a long time, consider that as you shop. Gas-powered machines are generally a little heavier than battery-powered models.

See if it has other ergonomic features for ease of use or for jobs that will require more than a quick walk around the lawn. Sometimes straps and slings are helpful for those larger cleanup jobs. Straps and slings distribute the weight across your shoulders and give your arms and back a break.

Finally, consider the length of the shaft. Although some shafts have an adjustable-length feature, other machines only have one length, which could be problematic for some buyers. If you’re concerned about getting a machine that works well for your stature, go inside the store and hold several different machines to gauge weight, ergonomics, and length.

This Is An Amazing Crazy Powerful Tool For High Grass That You Need To Own!

Extras: Not all battery-powered models include the battery and/or charger. In addition, you’ll probably want to buy a backup battery upfront so you can have an extra battery on days when you want to stay out in the lawn longer than one battery will allow.

Cutting width: If you prefer a wide cutting width (diameter), check this before you buy. If you’re used to a 17-inch cutting path, for example, you might be disappointed if you get home and find that yours only has a 13-inch reach.

Warranty: If this is important to you, check to see what warranty is offered. With battery-powered equipment, battery warranties may be separate. If you don’t see a separate warranty for the battery, check to see whether or not that is included.

FAQ about weed eaters

Which is the best weed eater for seniors?

For seniors or for anyone who isn’t as strong as Joe Lumberjack, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

—Weight: Look at the tool weight. Also, consider that a battery or tank of gas will add to that. —Pull start vs. battery start: With a gas model, the pull start may be an issue for some seniors. You have to put the weed eater on the ground and quickly pull up on the string. A spring-assist pull start may make starting the machine easier if you prefer a gas weeder. However, if you’re considering a battery-powered model, push a button, squeeze the trigger, and you’re good to go. —Ergonomics: You may want to invest in a special handle or shoulder strap. Even though this tool may only see residential use, these components may make even a small job that much easier. —Cost: If you don’t have a lot of extra money to spend, curved-shaft models are usually less expensive. Also, look for refurbished models or seasonal sales. Generally, stores offer both great and great selection s on lawn equipment on the three summer holidays (Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day). Fall sales starting in September offer great deals (end-of-season), but selection may be more limited.

Which is the best brand of weed eater?

What brand of lawn equipment have you enjoyed using in the past? Or, what brand does your neighbor recommend? Personal experience and the recommendations of friends go a long way.

You may even ask the lawn workers in your neighborhood to see what type of equipment they use. If someone works with a tool day in and day out, they probably have a favorite brand to recommend.

Pro Tip: If neighbors or lawn crews are in short supply, call your local small engine shop. They’ve got the inside scoop on which brands they never see, and which ones come in all the time for repairs.

Which is the best residential weed eater?

Heavy-duty vs. light-duty use: If you have a small, postage-stamp-sized lawn, don’t go all out. A simple, lightweight machine will do fine. If, on the other hand, you have a standard yard, a large yard, or a backyard that looks like a jungle if you let it go, you may want to opt for a more powerful model.

Quality: High-quality machines usually cost more. If you don’t have experience with a particular brand or model, read helpful online “Best Weed Eater” guides, talk to neighbors, and read reviews.

Cost: This is a defining factor for many homeowners. Lighter use means a lower cost and vice versa. Shop sales, and do your research for a model that will do what you need at a price you can afford.

If weed-eating is not your favorite way to relax after a long week, let our local lawn care pros take the guesswork out of “Who’s going to mow my lawn?” Our reliable crews give your lawn a professional cut and edge every time.

Main Photo Credit: StrangeApparition2011 | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 4.0

The Absolute Best Commercial Weed Eaters: 2022 Edition

Whether you are looking for the best commercial weed eaters to use for your lawn care business or to use at home, you’ve come to the right place. Today we are reviewing heavy duty weed whackers that will get the job done.

Top 4 Commercial Weed Eaters/Trimmers

Depending on where you live, you might call it a weed eater, weed-whacker or a weed-whipper That’s because those are all common names for string trimmers.

Trimmers are known for being great at cutting clean edges on walkways, grooming hard to mow places like fence line and patios, as well as general clean-up around your yard and property.

There are many makes, models and configurations of string trimmers and adding a quality weed trimmer to your landscape tool line-up is a no-brainer.

An industrial string trimmer is the perfect tool to give your lawn and landscape the clean and professional look it deserves.

In this review we will FOCUS on the best commercial string trimmers that are tough enough for the job but are also perfect for the homeowner looking for quality equipment.

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. We only include brands we use and trust. See the full disclosure in the privacy policy.

Shindaiwa T262 Line Trimmer Straight Shaft 25.4cc Engine

A solid and reliable piece of equipment you can count on every time. With it’s professional grade, 2 stroke engine and 20 inch cutting swath you will be able to get the job done quickly.

• Large cutting swath of 20 inches
• Reliable commercially tested 25cc 2 stroke engine
• Triggle throttle can easily regulate speed
• Best system to load wind your string
• Made by Echo

Husqvarna 324L 4-Cycle 18″ Cutting Path Gas String Trimmer

This is a great go-to weed eater for when you want professional grade power that’s easy to use. The SmartTrimmer technology reduces starter cord resistance making for quick and easy start up every time. You will also appreciate the straight shaft design that makes trimming under bushes and other hard to reach spots so much easier. When comparing all of the best commercial weed eaters, this is our top pick.

• Lightweight 25cc 4 stroke engine
• Reliable starting
• Common 18 inch cutting swath
• Lighter than other trimmers at 11.3 lbs

Echo GT-225 2 Cycle 21.2cc Curved Shaft Gas Weed Trimmer

This lightweight and easy to use trimmer is reliable and hardworking. The Rapid-load trimmer head saves time and frustration when working on big jobs that require a lot of line. The professional grade GT 225 is super easy to start and maneuver but is still tough enough to tackle all the weeds and brush you need it to.

• 21.2cc 2 stroke engine
• Lightweight at only 10lbs
• Good size and maneuverability for individuals 5’8” or less
• 16 in cutting swath

Ego 56-Volt Powerload String Trimmer

This push-button, ion powered weed eater will simplify your lawn care in a snap. The innovative Powerload head design allows you to actually feed the line and press to wind. Lawn care has never been easier with the bump feed line advance and longer run time with the EGO battery platform.

• Battery operated
• Quiet brushless electric motor
• Great torque and power
• Battery works with over 40 other ego tools
• Push button feed for string

If this is your first time shopping for a commercial weed eater, be sure to spend some time familiarizing yourself with the different features and options available so that you are happy with your purchase for years to come.

Here are a few aspects that you need to consider:

Engine Size

This is traditionally measured in cubic centimeters or cc’s.

Traditionally speaking the larger cc an engine is the more powered delivered.

On another note, 2 stroke engines will typically deliver more torque and power than a similarly sized 4 stroke engine.

A plus for our 4 stroke offerings is that you do not need to add oil to your fuel mixture so it’s likely that the same gas you are using for your lawn mower will work for your trimmer.

A surprise on our list was the Ego Electric trimmer. This trimmer is best in class by far compared to other electric trimmers whether battery powered or corded. The best way to gauge an electric trimmers power capabilities is battery size and brushed versus brushless motors.

A larger battery will provide better power.

A brushless motor creates less friction and will greatly outperform its brushed counterpart.

Engine size will also dictate what tasks the weed trimmer can accomplish efficentially.

If you are just cleaning up the perimeter of your lawn or turf area a smaller engine will be sufficient. If you also need to tackle brush or larger areas go for a bigger engine size.

It can be very discouraging when using an underpowered tool, so error on going a little larger in size.

Cutting Width

Available cutting width or cutting swath equals how much area your trimmer can cover in a circle.

For areas that are larger and require frequent upkeep, a larger cutting swath would be best.

If the only job you are performing is lawn edging, total cutting area might be as important.

Similar to engine power it is always best to error on the side of choosing a larger trimmer that can successfully perform multiple tasks.

Head and String Configuration

Nothing is more frustrating than running out of string or having a trimmer’s string feeding system not working properly.

Straight vs Curved Shaft

A straight shaft trimmer will be useful for most people and applications. If you are one the smaller side, 5”8” or less, a curved shaft trimmer may be appropriate.

The best weed eater string can provide maximum performance from a string trimmer and a great-looking landscape.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

The string in your weed trimmer head can have a big impact on weekly yard work. Using the wrong string causes constant breaks or sticks inside the spool housing, forcing you to stop and reload frequently. But, the right pick provides ease of use and clean cutting, every time.

Keep reading to learn about the key features to consider when shopping, and then explore the picks for the best weed eater string options on today’s market. An in-depth review of the market and thorough product vetting went into assembling the list of top picks.

• BEST OVERALL:Cyclone Desert Extrusion CY095S3.095″ x 855′
• RUNNER UP:Oregon 20-020 Magnum Gatorline Supertwist
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Maxpower 333695 Residential Grade Round.095-Inch
• UPGRADE PICK:Oregon 22-855 Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum
• BEST COMMERCIAL:Oregon 22-595 Gatorline Heavy-Duty Professional
• BEST FOR EDGING:Husqvarna String Trimmer Line.095-Inch
• BEST FOR TALL GRASS:Arnold Maxi Edge.095-Inch x 100-Foot Commercial
• BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:Weed Warrior 17067.080” Diameter x 100’ Bi-Component
• BEST FOR SMALL YARDS:Maxpower 333180 Residential Grade Round.080-Inch
• BEST FOR THICK BRUSH:Oregon 22-955 Gatorline Heavy-Duty Professional

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Weed Eater String

Before buying string for your weed trimmer, consult the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the string sizes that will fit your power equipment. With that information in hand, there are five aspects of weed trimmer string to consider while you shop: shape, durability, material, weld resistance, and line size.

Shape

Weed trimmer string is available in round, square, multi-sided, twisted, and serrated shapes for different types of yard work. The shape of the string affects performance in several ways, including the cleanness of the cut, the durability of the string, and even noise level. It is important to match the shape with the application for which you’ll be using the string.

• Round string comes in all sizes. It is economical, durable, and easy to reload. A round string is best for lawns with mostly grass and just a few weeds. It is not as efficient on weedy properties because the smooth edges tend to tear through weeds rather than cutting cleanly. A round string is also more likely to overheat and weld together when trimming along concrete walls or fences.
• Square string features four hard edges to slice cleanly through tough weeds and light brush. It offers more cutting power than round string but is more likely to break against hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, and brick. This is a good option for maintaining weedy, overgrown spaces.
• Multi-sided string is best for yards with heavy weeds and thick grass. The sharp edges cut through weeds for a cleaner look. This string breaks more easily than round string while trimming along hard surfaces, so it may not be the best choice in areas with a lot of obstacles to work around.
• Twisted string provides a cleaner cut than a round string in thick weeds and has comparable durability around hard surfaces. The reduced air resistance makes it operate with less noise and vibration of the trimmer head than other string shapes. Combined with an electric or cordless trimmer, twisted string can be a great choice when noise is a concern.
• Serrated string features a somewhat flat profile, with teeth along the narrow edges. It offers aggressive cutting application for tough weeds and brushy areas. This string is great for rough work in large spaces, but it may not be the best choice for a clean-cut appearance in a residential setting.

Durability

Consistent use with brush, heavy weeds, and hard surfaces is where the difference in durability becomes apparent. A more durable string allows you to do more work per spool.

The durability of trimmer string varies based on its material, shape, what you’re trimming, and friction with fixed surfaces like stone and concrete. Given the same shape and material, the thicker the string, the more slowly it will wear out.

For the greatest durability, round string is the standard. Combining more material with less surface area, it has a longer wear time. Round string made of reinforced nylon or non-nylon polymer, or string with a hardened core material, will provide greater durability than basic nylon.

Material

Basic trimmer string is made of hardened monofilament nylon. This material has been the industry standard for years, but manufacturers are making constant improvements to increase durability and capability. Plain nylon line is still effective, but stronger materials are now available.

Better materials, like reinforced composite nylon have a greater more cutting power and breakage resistance. Some products include strengthening materials like aluminum that are incorporated into the nylon or a hardened core material to prevent breakage. Other trimmer strings are made from non-nylon polymers or copolymers for added strength.

Welding Resistance

Welding occurs when a trimmer string overheats inside the trimmer head and sticks together on the spool. It is caused by operating the trimmer at high speed while cutting along a resistant surface like a fence or concrete sidewalk for an extended time.

The added friction causes excessive heat buildup, which softens the string and eventually causes it to stick together. A welded line does not feed out of the spool, so you’ll have to remove it and restring the spool.

While the materials used to make trimmer strings are all reasonably weld resistant, some string types have a higher degree of resistance than others. Given the same material, shaped line is more weld-resistant than round because of the increased surface area. Round string has the least amount of surface area, allowing heat buildup to occur more quickly.

Line Size

Every string trimmer, whether cordless, plug-in electric, or gas-powered, has limitations on line size. Line diameter is a good indicator of durability. Assuming the same material and shape, a thicker line lasts longer. Thicker line also costs more.

Consider the cutting conditions, how often you want to reload, and how much you want to spend when deciding on the right line thickness. Not all sizes fit all trimmers, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s directions before purchasing string for your trimmer.

Light-duty weed eater string of.065-inch to.085-inch diameter is suitable for small and medium yards with few weeds. Medium-duty trimmer string of.085-inch to.110-inch diameter is a good choice for larger yards and yards with thick grass and more weeds.

Heavy-duty string greater than.110-inch diameter is best for large properties with heavy weeds, including woody plants, lots of fences, and edging.

Our Top Picks

Check out the following list of some of the best weed eater string on the market. These products all represent quality, value, performance, and meeting users’ real-life needs.