Edge cutter lawn mower. Edge cutter lawn mower

Edgers

McLane edger/trimmers use single lever blade clutch and depth control. The cutter head is precision machined and uses sealed precision ball bearings on a 2″x9″ spring steel blade. Each edger/Trimmer uses an all steel heavy duty chassis along with a tubular steel handle, and is finished with a powder coated-baked polyester paint that resists chipping and corrosion. McLane edger/trimmers cut vertically or horizontally, and do it smoothly thanks to wide rubber tires with ball bearing wheels. Best of all, McLane edgers are designed to ride on most curbs while still delivering a clean cut every time. The blade can be quickly and easily tilted to almost any angle, and will trim flat at any height. The front wheels move to convert from edger to trimmer in seconds. All McLane edger/trimmers meet all established safety standards.

100, 100-5.50GT-7-S, 101, 101-5.50GT-7-P, 4G-7-P (STEEL WHEEL), 4g-7p

Briggs Stranton, Briggs Stratton, Honda

Cancellation Policy

Mclane Cancellation Policy

If for any reason you change your mind on an order you just placed on our website or over the phone, McLane will be happy to cancel the order under the following conditions:

Free same day cancellation is available when the order is placed during our regular business hours from 7 am to 2:30 pm PST. Free same day cancellation is not available if you reach our voicemail after hours. Cancellation request must be acknowledged by a Mclane customer service representative.

Cancellations done on the next business day will have a 4% cancellation fee considering that the order has not shipped.

Cancellations after the order has shipped and in transit is not acceptable as we are unable to re-route the freight or package. Customer will be responsible to receive the order and ship back to us at their own shipping/freight expense and under our returns policy. Customer will be required to send us an email requesting an RMA through our customer service department. Returns without an RMA will be rejected and not eligible for refund. We are not responsible for returned items lost or damaged during transit.

If delivery of the order is rejected or not accepted, customer will be responsible for freight expenses both ways and there will be an additional 25% restocking fee. Charges will be deducted from the eligible refund.

We thank you for your business.

Edge Cutting With Robotic Mowers: Are They Any Good?

Surely you have heard of the so-called edge mowing function that some robotic mowers have. But can it really mow any edge with it? And what exactly is the edge mowing function? Here I will explain to you exactly what it is and what this function is suitable for. What is the edge mowing function of a robotic mower useful for? The edge mowing function of some robotic mowers causes the mower to circle once completely around the lawn and mow the edge. Due to the special design of the mowing unit, it comes closer to the edge. However, even mowing robots with edge mowing function cannot mow completely to the edge. Even with the edge mowing function you can’t expect miracles. There is always a certain minimum distance between the blades of the mower and the outer edge. But why is that? And what is the edge mowing function good for anyway? And are there any disadvantages to using the edge mowing function? I will clarify this in the coming sections.

How Does the Edge Mowing Function Work?

The edge mowing function is a special function where your robotic mower, starting from the charging station, travels once counterclockwise around your entire lawn on the boundary wire to mow the grass that is still left at the edge, which it cannot properly catch in normal mowing mode. The mowing unit of robotic mowers with edge mowing function is not exactly in the middle under the mowing robot, but is slightly offset towards the right side (or towards the left side in the case of models that mow the edge clockwise). As a result, the distance on the right-hand side between the body and the mowing unit is smaller, which enables the robot to mow closer to the edge. The resulting smaller safety distance between the mowing unit and the bodywork is compensated for by the fact that on the right-hand side an additional kind of grating encloses the mowing unit so that objects and feet cannot get into the mowing unit. In the following graphic you can see again how the offset mower unit brings the robotic mower closer to the edge and how it drives over the boundary wire.

With WORX models, the robotic mower carries out a lawn edge cut every day as a standard. This setting can only be changed with the corresponding app. There you can tap on each day under “Schedule” and thus switch the edge cut on or off on that day. An orange highlighted day means that the function is switched on that day. In the following video it is relatively well explained at the beginning:

At least in places where the lawn is border ed directly by a solid obstacle, you must therefore always lay lawn edging stones or something similar. Here is an example of what this can look like:

In this article you will learn everything about how wide the lawn edging stones should be for the different models of robotic mowers and what distances to the edge you should choose. Also, I recently created an overview of different types of lawn edging stones that you can use to border your lawn.

What Use is the Edge Mowing Function?

So if roboti mowers cannot mow all the way to the edge even with the edge mowing function, what use is it? With the edge mowing function, robotic mowers still get much closer to the edge than they would without this function. This means that if you lay lawn edging stones, you can also use narrower stones here. In some places you can even do without lawn edging stones, where, if you used a model without the edge mowing function, you would probably have to lay them. In addition, a robotic mower with the lawn edge function can also mow the edge very well in sharp corners and angles, where other mowing robots may have problems. It is important to be aware that the mower will not reach the very edge if the lawn is directly adjacent to a wall or fence, for example.

Does the Edge Mowing Function Also Have Disadvantages?

There is a problem that can arise at least in some gardens. The mowing robot always follows a precisely defined route when mowing along edges. It always runs exactly in the middle of the boundary wire. Over time, this can result in tracks or a rut being created, as the lawn is always flattened in the same place, whereas mowing robots that drive in random mode always drive onto the lawn at different places and from different directions. This is a problem especially in particularly steep places, or if the ground is frequently wet. In these scenarios, the wheels of the mowing robot often spin excessively at these places, which leaves a clear track after some time. Addition 16.07.20: Some of the more recent models alter their path a little bit with every round of cutting the edge, so that they do not always run through the same tracks, thus putting less stress on the same spot of grass. Not a real disadvantage, but a problem worth mentioning: The edge mowing function only works on the outer boundary wire. If you have created islands on your lawn with the boundary wire, for example around an island of flowers, the robotic mower cannot perform the edge mowing mode there because it cannot reach the island via the wire (the connection between island and boundary wire is invisible to it). Alternatively, however, you can create a “pseudo-island” which the mowing robot does not recognize as a real island and which is practically only a kind of peninsula. Here you can read all about islands and pseudo-islands for robotic mowers with boundary wire.

Does a Robotic Mower with the Edge Mowing Function Make Sense for Your Garden?

The advantage of mowing straight up to the edge of your lawn can only be enjoyed if there are many places in your garden where the lawn is bordered by another level surface, so that the mowing robot can drive slightly over the edge of the boundary in order to cut right up to the ends of the lawn. On the other hand, if most of your lawn borders directly on solid obstacles such as a fence or wall, a thin strip of lawn will remain, even if it is quite narrow. This means that you will still have to mow the edges again if that bothers you, which is exactly what you want to avoid with the edge mowing function. However, this strip is really very thin, so you may as well just ignore it if it doesn’t bother you. If you are thinking about surrounding the entire lawn with lawn edging stones, you do not necessarily have to choose a robotic mower with the edge mowing function, because in this case you can simply use stones that are a little bit wider, so that any other model of mowing robot can also mow to the edge. When choosing lawn edging stones, it also makes sense to think about the future. Perhaps thinner stones will suffice first, because you choose a mowing robot with edge mowing function. At some point in the future, however, you may want to buy another mowing robot that does not have this function, which is why you will need wider stones. In this case it might be useful to lay somewhat wider stones directly. The difference will not be very big.

Which Robotic Mowers Have the Edge Mowing Function?

So far I only know models from WORX and ROBOMOW. With WORX the function is called “edge mowing function,” with ROBOMOW it is called “edge mode.” I will soon create a comprehensive overview of robotic mowers with the edge mowing function.

Related Questions

How much grass do robotic mowers leave on the edge? Mowing robots can leave up to 14 inches of grass at the edge. How much grass is left standing depends to a certain extent on the model, but mainly on the nature of the lawn edge. Lawn edging stones can almost always solve the problem of the remaining grassy strip at the edge. Learn more: This much grass is left on the edge of the lawn by mowing robots How wide should lawn edging stones for robotic mowers be? Lawn edging stones should be between 4 and 9.5 inches wide. The exact width is determined above all by the nature of the outer edge of the lawn, whether it is a wall or a flower bed, for example, as well as the robotic mowing model used.Learn more: This is how wide lawn edging stones for robotic mowers should be

How cleanly does a robotic lawnmower mow the lawn edge

The goal of purchasing a robotic mower is usually to hand over lawn care to the garden helper. However, sometimes it is necessary to retouch the lawn edges.

With the acquisition of a robotic mower, garden owners actually hope to relinquish all power to their new garden helper. Unfortunately, lawn edges quickly become a nuisance when a small strip remains that needs to be trimmed manually because the robot simply cannot reach it. Luckily, there are methods to help you also mow the lawn edge.

A robotic mower helps keep the time spent on lawn care to a minimum. Not only are you free from mowing the lawn itself, but maintenance work is also normally less than with a classic gasoline mower. With that being said, pesky lawn edges may require manual reworking with a lawn trimmer or shears. After all, the overall appearance is not very neat if blades of grass sprout uncontrollably around the edges of the lawn. Not every robotic lawnmower really cuts the edges cleanly. This is often not possible for technical reasons alone. But never fear, there are ways to help minimize retouching.

Why do robotic lawnmowers leave an edge?

The fact that robotic mowers do not just mow lawns to the very edge is primarily due to the safety precautions offered by the device. Razor-sharp blades are well protected under the device and designed to stop automatically when lifted to avoid any possible contact. If blades protruded too far, they could pose a risk of injury.

So the width of the edge ultimately depends on the distance between the blades and the housing. If the blades are centered, this is quite large at 10-20 centimeters. In models with an edge-cutting function, the edge may be considerably narrower at approximately 5 centimeters. That sounds like a lot at first, but it’s no different from classic lawn mowers. They can also leave a small edge, which requires retouching.

Robotic mowers with edge-cutting function

Most robotic lawnmowers do not reach the edges due to their design, as the blade is centered underneath the device. There is a gap between the blade and the housing, which is especially noticeable when the robot drives along a wall. A strip of about 10-20 centimeters remains. Accordingly, the strip may increase with the size of the robot and the distance of the perimeter wire to the edge.

In the case of a robotic mower with edge-cutting function, the blade does not sit in the middle, but laterally under the device and even protrudes beyond the wheelbase. Still, there is a small distance to the outer edge of the housing. Nevertheless, this is limited to a much smaller width of about 6 centimeters so that the lawn edge is cut quite cleanly. The robotic lawnmower plans its mowing in such a way that it runs along the edges with the blade side to help keep the edge as small as possible.

A clean lawn edge can be achieved by laying a row of stones along walls so that the lawn does not grow right up against the wall, but leaves a small passable strip for the robotic lawnmower.

The correct laying of the boundary wire is important

For robotic lawnmowers with an edge-cutting function, it is particularly important to make sure the boundary wire is laid accurately. If you lay the wire too far inward, it will not be possible for the blade to reach the lawn edge. The ideal distance of the perimeter wire to lawn edges, walls or fences can be found in the manufacturer’s manual. Some models also have a ruler to help facilitate installation. These indications should definitely be followed, because the boundary wire is by no means the outer edge of the cutting width. If the wire is laid directly at the edge, the robotic lawnmower will go a little beyond it: in some models even as much as 30 cm.

If there are thoroughfares that are driven over, there is no need for a demarcation by the wire. The robot simply drives over them and mows the edges automatically. However, if the path represents the outer edge of the lawn, place the wire close to the path so that the robotic lawnmower cleanly takes the edge with it.

Caution should be exercised, however, if lawn edges are eliminated from flower beds. If the perimeter wire is too close to the edge, the robotic lawnmower risks slipping and getting stuck in the edge. The same applies along bodies of water or walls, to which a somewhat greater distance should always be maintained when laying the wire.

Guideline values for the perimeter wire distance for Robomow robotic lawnmowers

The distance of the perimeter wire from obstacles and beds differs depending on the manufacturer as well as from model to model. Almost all Robomow models have an edge cutting function, so the distance is comparatively small for traversable boundaries.

Model. Distance to fixed obstacle. Distance at ground level boundary

Lawn edging stones for the perfect edge cut

Not all robotic lawnmowers have a practical edge cutting function. Regardless, with a little ingenuity, lawn edges can be cut ideally even with models where the blade is centered. This will require either the appropriate advanced planning in your garden design or some reworking.

To do this, border the lawn and flower beds with lawn edging stones. These should be level with the ground and thus passable for the robotic lawnmower. Depending on the robotic lawnmower, a width of approx. 10 to 24 cm is recommended. It is also important to know whether the stone is adjacent to a wall or borders a bed behind it.

To prevent the lawn from growing into the bed, lay the lawn edging stones in two rows next to each other and stagger the joints in each case.

Next, lay the boundary wire as close as possible to the stones so that the robot uses one of the wheels to drive over the stones while the centrally positioned blade reaches the lawn edge.

Robotic lawnmower with three wheels

Some robotic lawnmowers have only three wheels instead of four. The front axle is substituted by a centrally placed wheel to help increase maneuverability but at the same time can make the devices more susceptible to getting stuck in soft ground. Accordingly, it is recommended to place lawn edging stones in such a way that the robotic lawnmower does not drive with the front wheel extending beyond the boundary.

Types of lawn edging stones

Lawn edging stones are available in a wide variety of designs and sizes. Which stone is suitable is first a question of personal taste. Secondly, the required width for the robotic mower should be included in your decision so that the lawn edge is cut as cleanly as possible. Possible stone types that would be appropriate for a robotic mower are:

• Dovetail stones
• Granite stones (the familiar cobblestone)
• Concrete sidewalk slabs
• Rectangular concrete paving

Of course, combinations of the stone types are also possible, which sometimes results in exciting designs.

Alternative bed edgings. not always suitable for robotic mowers

Alternatives to concrete edging stones are also bed edgings made of wood, metal or plastic or simply leaving the front edge of the bed free of vegetation so that the robot can use soil or humus as a navigation surface. In this case, however, regular edge trimming is necessary to avoid having your lawn grow into the bed. Although these bed edgings protect plants from undesirable intrusion of the robotic lawnmower, they are also not passable making reworking necessary. Metal bed edgings in particular also pose the risk of interfering with the signal of the robotic lawnmower.

Bed edging for robotic lawnmowers with grass sensors

For robotic mowers that use sensors instead of a perimeter wire, bed edgings are essential to provide a clear contrast between the lawn and the beds or to simply create a natural barrier that the robot cannot cross. Level lawn stones are therefore less suitable as a boundary. This means that manual reworking with a lawn trimmer is the only option.

MANUAL RETOUCHING WITH A LAWN TRIMMER

If you do not want to convert your garden, nor do you have a robotic lawnmower with an edge-cutting function, you can manually retouch the lawn with a lawn trimmer or (preferably battery-powered) lawn shears. Both are not particularly time-consuming or strenuous. Furthermore, it may be necessary to buy a second device for your lawn care. This may require more space for storage and additional costs.

Of course, which device is best suited depends on the size of your garden and the length of the lawn edges. For smaller stretches, manual lawn shears may even suffice. However, for larger gardens, a battery-powered lawn trimmer makes the job much easier. Maximum flexibility is offered by models with a swivelling cutting head.

FURTHER CRITERIA OF THE ROBOTIC LAWNMOWER FOR CLEAN LAWN EDGES

An edge cutting function is one thing. The other is a robotic lawnmower that can achieve an overall optimalt cut pattern.

• The most important criterion is sharp blades that really cut the lawn cleanly. The result of dull blades are frayed grass tips that tend to turn brown, which can eventually, cause your lawn to no longer look green, lush and healthy.
• A pendulum-mounted mowing deck is also helpful, as it is designed to provide a uniform cut even if the terrain is not completely level.
• In order to have a strong grip, especially on bumpy terrain or slopes, wheels with particularly good traction are recommended.

Robotic lawnmowers with an edge-cutting function mow edges cleanly to within a few centimeters but also reach their limits with vegetation that comes right up to walls and fences. To help avoid any kind of retouching, it is therefore advisable to edge the lawn with a margin of about 6 centimeters to the outermost edges. This will give you time to enjoy your manicured garden without still having to resort to the lawn trimmer.

Faced with an array of precisely calibrated edgers, it can be tricky to choose the right one for your yard. See some top shopping tips and a roundup of top-performing tools.

By Andréana Lefton and Timothy Dale and Mark Wolfe | Updated Apr 19, 2023 1:22 PM

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

Whether your yard is large or small, minimally landscaped or filled with flower beds, one of the easiest ways to tame unruly edges and to keep it looking manicured is to invest in a reliable lawn edger.

Similar to how a picture frame enhances artwork, an evenly trimmed yard perimeter elevates the overall appearance of a lawn. Crisp edges signify a well-tended property, especially along driveways, sidewalks, garden beds, and walkways.

Simplify your search by identifying your property’s needs with the shopping guide and our field-tested reviews of several popular lawn edgers on our own curbs, landscape beds, and driveway edges. Preview our roundup of some of the best lawn edger tools available below and keep reading for performance details later on.

• BEST OVERALL:BlackDecker 2-in-1 String Trimmer / Edger
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Bully Tools 92251 Round Lawn Edger
• BEST GAS-POWERED:McLane 101-5.5GT-7 Gas Powered Lawn Edger
• BEST LIGHTWEIGHT:Greenworks Pro 80V 8-Inch Brushless Edger
• BEST FOR SMALL YARDS:Greenworks 12-Amp Electric Corded Edger
• BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:Worx WG896 12-Amp 7.5-Inch Electric Lawn Edger
• BEST COMBO KIT:Echo PAS Trimmer and Edger Kit
• ALSO CONSIDER:Earthquake 23275 Walk-Behind Lawn Edger

How We Tested the Best Lawn Edgers

We wanted to run these tools through real-world scenarios such as basic grass edge maintenance, trenching along hard edges, and digging into new ground as would be needed for bed line definition. The test yard offered a good mix with a driveway edge that only needed maintenance, a curbline with an overgrown edge, and several landscape beds with edges that varied from moderately well defined to poorly defined.

To make our list, the edgers had to function well in every location based on the ways they are marketed. For instance, plug-in electric edgers are designed for maintaining existing edges in small landscapes and are not expected to be used for digging into unbroken soil for extended periods. On the other hand, gas-powered walk-behind models are intended for both detailed trim work and clean, powerful groundbreaking during long hours of work.

Our Top Picks

The top choices below were selected based on the overall quality and product efficacy with significant attention paid to the important product factors mentioned above to help find some of the best lawn edgers to keep gardens neatly maintained. In order to make the cut, each tool successfully navigated our hands-on edger testing criteria that included curb, driveway, and natural landscape bed edges. Check out the product descriptions for performance details.

BlackDecker 2-in-1 String Trimmer / Edger

The plug-and-go Black Decker serves not only as an edger but also as a trench digger. With a 12-amp electric engine that produces no emissions, this tool is useful for installing outdoor lighting, fencing, or when planting bushes and trees. The edger can be set to one of three possible cutting depths, with a maximum depth of 3.75 inches.

As an added safety feature, this trimmer-edger includes a built-in cord retention system that keeps the extension cord in place to prevent users from tripping over it. The edger weighs 12.4 pounds, and it has an edging guide that helps to make clean cuts around hard surfaces like patios, walkways, and driveways.

We liked the way the Black Decker edger tracked around tight landscape bed curves and straightaways along paved edges. It easily sliced through foliage and tough surface roots for a clean edge, but was a bit undersized for digging into clay for bed edge renovation.

Product Specs

• Type: Walk-behind
• Power source: Corded 12-amp electric motor
• Weight: 12.4 pounds
• Lightweight construction is easy to maneuver and lift
• Powerful electric motor can take on thin and thick grass and plant varieties
• Adjustable handle height accommodates multiple user heights
• Limited range due to corded motor; may not be ideal for large-scale tasks
• Not as good at creating edges; best for maintenance
• No guard over the blade assembly; may not be as safe as comparable options

Get the BlackDecker trimmer-edger on Amazon.

Bully Tools 92251 Round Lawn Edger

Instead of investing in a heavy-duty lawn edger, those with small yards may be better off with this inexpensive manual lawn edger. While it will take a little more physical effort to drive the thick 12-gauge steel blade into the turf, users won’t need to worry about gas, batteries, or extension cords, making it easier to quickly and efficiently edge a small yard.

The spade lawn edger weighs just under 4 pounds, and it extends out to a length of about 38 inches. It features a T-style handle for better control and to help distribute the force evenly across the bottom of the blade. The entire edger is made of thick steel, and the handles are covered with padded grips to help prevent the tool from slipping while in use.

We like the simplicity of this classic half-moon style manual edger. The tool excels at trenching and defining natural landscape bed edges. It is not the fastest or best tool for maintaining crisp grass edges along pavement, but it would pair nicely with one of the fast electric edgers for a complete package.

Product Specs

• Compact size is easy to store in a garage or shed
• Useful for both creating and maintaining crisp edges
• Does not require a power or fuel source; operates manually
• Built to last indefinitely; no additional tools need to be purchased
• Slower than a power edger; manual operation only
• Blunt edge should be sharpened for a cleaner edge
• Some users may prefer a longer handle

Get the Bully Tools edger at The Home Depot or Lowe’s.

McLane 101-5.5GT-7 Gas Powered Lawn Edger

The McLane Lawn Edger draws considerable power from the 127-cc gas engine with a maximum power output of 3.5 HP. However, the powerful gas engine does increase the weight of the tool to about 66 pounds, which may quickly wear out some users. To help manage the weight of the machine, the manufacturer includes four 7-inch wheels to balance and support the gas-powered lawn edger.

This edger has handlebars extending up from the frame to two padded handles, allowing the user to push and maneuver the edger like they would a lawn mower. The flat rectangular cutting blade can reach a depth of 4.5 inches as an edging tool, but it can also be set up to cut horizontally as a trimmer, taking care of more than one yard maintenance task with a single tool.

The McLane lawn edger was by far the most powerful and adjustable edger we tested. It tracked well along pavement, articulated around curved bed lines, and cut through heavy clay soil to renovate old bed edges. For those with lots of edging to maintain, this tool can do it all.

Product Specs

• Fast blade speed with high torque; suitable for thin and thick grass and plant varieties
• Compact frame for easy storage in a shed or garage space
• Easy to start the engine
• Adjustable working height and blade angle
• Heavyweight construction may be harder to maneuver compared to similar models
• Bulkier and louder than electric edgers
• Some assembly required; may require more than one set of hands

Get the McLane edger on Amazon.

Greenworks Pro 80V 8-Inch Brushless Edger

Weighing just 12.1 pounds, this lightweight battery-powered lawn edger is easy to carry, maneuver, and control with an adjustable auxiliary handle that can be moved up or down the shaft of the tool to better suit the specific user. It also has a trigger lock to help prevent the edger from accidentally starting up. The 8-inch flat rectangular cutting blade is suitable for most edging tasks, with a maximum cutting depth of 4 inches.

This cordless Greenworks lawn edger operates on the included 80-volt lithium-ion battery and can last for up to 60 minutes before it needs to be recharged. It doesn’t come with a spare battery, but it does include a charger and an onboard battery life indicator, so users can keep an eye on the remaining battery life.

We were impressed with the gas-like power that the 80-volt Greenworks battery provides. The lithium-ion battery inflates the overall price, but for those who wish to cut the cord and remain emission-free, this tool can be paired with others in the Greenworks 80-volt lineup for an excellent solution.

Product Specs

• Type: Handheld
• Power Source: Rechargeable 80-volt lithium-ion battery
• Weight: 12.1 pounds
• Powerful operation can take on heavy-duty cutting tasks
• Provides excellent mobility without gasoline
• Clean operation and quiet compared to gas-powered models
• Handle lacks adjustability for users of different heights
• Battery may not be enough for large yards
• Expect costly battery replacement in 4 to 7 years

Get the Greenworks brushless edger on Amazon or at Best Buy.

Greenworks 12 Amp Electric Corded Edger

This corded electric lawn edger is a great choice for small yards and it features a 12-amp engine and an extension cord with a cord-lock feature that prevents accidental unplugging. It weighs about 18 pounds, but a portion of this weight is supported by a pair of back wheels and a single guide wheel that can be adjusted in height to change the depth of the cut.

The 7.5-inch star-shaped steel blade of the Greenworks lawn edger is capable of cutting grass cleanly and smoothly to a maximum depth of 3.75 inches. Users can also adjust the length of the shaft so that it better suits their height. When the lawn edger is properly adjusted and the user is ready to go, just push in the trigger lock switch to unlock the trigger and get to work.

We found this corded electric edger to be a rock-solid performer at a bargain price. Like the other corded electric models we tested, this Greenworks unit performed best in a maintenance setting but lacked power and size for trenching unbroken soil. It is lightweight and articulate, and an excellent choice for smaller yards.

Product Specs

• Type: Walk behind
• Power source: Corded 12-amp electric motor
• Weight: 17.8 pounds
• Adjustable edging/trenching depths depending on the task at hand
• Adjustable handle height can accommodate the heights of most users
• Aggressive star-shaped blade can cut thick and thin plant and grass types
• No edge guide makes it somewhat difficult to get started
• Height adjustment is somewhat awkward
• Best for edging pavement, not as effective for landscape beds

Get the Greenworks corded edger on Amazon or Lowe’s.

Worx WG896 12 Amp 7.5-Inch Electric Lawn Edger

Connect the 12-amp corded electric lawn edger using an extension cord to edge the entire yard without having to worry about running out of battery or needing to refuel. The only limit to the range of the edger is the length of the extension cord, and this product even offers two bundled options that each come with a 100-foot extension cord.

This edger has star-shaped cutting blades that can slice through sod, dirt, and roots at three different cutting depths to a maximum of 3.75 inches. It weighs only 14 pounds, and it has two wheels at the back of the tool for better balance, as well as a single wheel at the front of the tool for better control. The electric edger also has an adjustable auxiliary handle that is optimized to suit the specific needs of the user.

This Worx corded electric lawn edger weighs less than just about any of the other corded electric models we tested. Unlike those others, it trenched beds fairly well for landscape bed renovation, but it probably should not be used extensively for new bed construction. The handle and controls felt comfortable for extended use.

Product Specs

• Maximum depth setting works well for maintaining landscape bed edges
• Adjustable shaft height can accommodate multiple user heights; prevents strain
• Lightweight but powerful construction can be maneuvered easily
• Best for maintenance; not great for creating a new edge
• The molded edge guard may interfere with uneven grass above the curbline
• May need to order replacement blades from the manufacturer

Get the Worx lawn edger on Amazon or at Lowe’s.

Echo PAS Trimmer and Edger Kit

The 21.2-cc Echo PAS225 power head drives more than a dozen different lawn care tool attachments to keep a yard looking great without filling the garage with extra gas engines. This kit includes the power head, a curved shaft edger with a 9-inch square tipped blade, and a straight shaft string trimmer with a Speed Feed head that holds up to 17 feet of.095 string line. Along with a lawn mower and leaf blower, this may be all that’s needed to maintain a great-looking lawn. Available add-on attachments include hedge shear, pole saw, brush cutter, cultivator, bed redefiner, sweeper, and rock sweeper.

The tool attachments swap out quickly and easily, with just a spring pin and tension screw handle. The edger features a clog-resistant open-faced metal safety shield that works easily around uneven soil and taller grass. It penetrates deeply for trenching and bed edge renovation and trims crisp, clean edges along the pavement. The adjustable curb wheel allows users to customize the fit for maximum comfort. When not in use, the included S-hook hanger helps keep attachments organized.

We appreciated the versatility of the Echo PAS system. Both the edger and the string trimmer worked smoothly and efficiently, and the powerhead delivered nearly professional-level performance. The 9-inch edger blade had no difficulty penetrating clay soil while trenching for bed renovation. The combination of power, versatility, and moderate weight make this a broadly useful pick for maintaining small or large landscapes.

Product Specs

• Multi-attachment power head saves on storage space and engine maintenance
• Quick and easy attachment changes depending upon the task at hand
• Powerful edger trenches cuts clean and deep
• Starts easily; requires 30 percent less effort to start than comparable options
• Heavy for extended use, shoulder harness not included
• Requires mixed 2-cycle oil and gas
• Somewhat loud; may not be ideal for use at night

Get the Echo trimmer and edger kit on Acme Tools.

Earthquake 23275 Walk-Behind Lawn Edger

Whether building new landscape beds or maintaining curb edges, the Earthquake Walk-Behind Lawn Edger gets it done with less effort. This walk-behind edger is powered by a 79-cc 4-cycle gasoline engine that does not require mixed fuel. It rolls along easily on four wheels while the adjustable edging tool head cuts deeply into the soil to create or renew bed lines, or it skims along curb edges for a neat and tidy appearance.

Blade adjustments are accomplished with two controllers. Set the blade angle while the machine is turned off by means of a spring lever located at the side of the machine. A second spring lever conveniently located at the handlebars is used to raise and lower the head as necessary while the engine is running. The engine uses a pull start with a throttle control lever on the handlebars.

At just slightly more than half the price of the McLane walk-behind edger, this tool offers a good value, in our opinion. The 79-cc engine on the Earthquake model delivers less torque, but that difference is mostly felt when breaking new ground where roots and rocks sometimes bog it down. For maintaining a varied landscape and occasional new bed preparation, this could be an excellent choice.

Product Specs

• Adjustable blade height and angle prevents any strain on the user
• Great for landscape beds or pavement edges
• Uses plain gasoline; no mixing required
• Less blade torque than the McLane edger
• Arrives unassembled; may be tricky for some users to put together
• Lever style throttle does not lock in place for extended use

Get the Earthquake lawn edger on Amazon.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Lawn Edger

Don’t make a hasty decision about the best edger to landscape the garden and yard. There are several important considerations to keep in mind that can help you find the right lawn edger, including the power of the device, the blade type, the cutting width and depth, and included safety features to keep the user protected while working.

Types of Lawn Edgers

There are many options to choose from when deciding on the best lawn edgers to keep the yard well maintained and weed-free. Edgers typically fall into three categories based on power source, including manual, electric, and gas lawn edgers.

Manual

Instead of relying on an electric or gas-powered motor to get the job done, these manual lawn edgers are completely powered by the user.

• Rotary edgers have a long wooden shaft that attaches to a cutting wheel. The tool looks like a pole with a spiked wheel on the end. They work by applying pressure to the cutting wheel and rolling it along the edge of the lawn to cut through the overextended turf.
• Spade edgers resemble a shallow spade with a sharpened edge. To use, line up the bottom of the spade edger with the overextended turf and step down on the flat surface at the top of the blade to increase the force to cut through the sod, if necessary.
• Shear edgers are handheld tools that are rarely used. These tools are intended for cleaning up small pieces of sod or making cuts in narrow corners where other edging tools cannot reach. However, they aren’t suitable for edging the entire yard.

Motorized

If manually edging the lawn seems like a daunting task or if the goal is to not limit the war on weeds by physical endurance, then the best lawn edger may be motorized. There are two main kinds of motorized lawn edgers: ones with an electric motor and those powered by a gas engine.

• Electric lawn edgers are usually more budget-friendly and the more suitable tool for small yards. They’re either battery powered or plug into an electrical outlet via a lengthy cord. Though they only provide 18 or so volts of power, battery-operated models allow the user to trim anywhere in the yard. Corded varieties offer more power (usually 10 to 12 amps), though slightly less mobility unless paired with an extension cord.
• Gas-powered lawn edgers, available with a 2- or 4-cycle engine, boast considerable power and are better suited for larger yards. While 2-cycle engines are more common, they require having to replenish fuel and oil. They are far less environmentally conscious than 4-cycle engines, which run clean but cost and weigh more.

Power

When trying to decide on the best lawn edger for the yard, it’s important to understand the power potential of these tools. Both gas and electric options offer comparable power output, but manual lawn edgers depend on the power exerted by the user.

• Gas lawn edgers measure the power output in horsepower (HP) and the engine size in cubic centimeters (cc). Typically, the higher the HP and cc, the more powerful the engine, creating significant differences in efficiency and cost, depending on the product.
• Electric and battery-powered lawn edgers rely on electric engines that are powered by a direct connection to the home electrical system or with an attached battery. These devices measure power output in amps and voltage. As with the HP and the cc of gas engines, higher voltage and amp ratings indicate a more powerful electrical engine.

Blade Type

A straight, no-frills blade can handle simple yards just fine, but an edger that offers multiple positions and angle settings may be a worthwhile investment if a property has a lot of flower beds and specialty features. The following are the three main types of edger blades:

• Flat rectangular blades with plain edges are the most common among lawn edgers and are suitable for basic edging jobs where the lawn is flush and level with the nearest hard surface (like a driveway or a sidewalk).
• Flat rectangular bladeswith scoop-cut edges carefully handle the perimeter of more delicate landscaping features like flower beds, which might otherwise be disturbed by the debris while rough cutting. These blades are also ideal to employ when the lawn and hard surfaces are uneven.
• Star-shaped blades are useful for cutting yards with firm boundaries, like lawns that end at a wall or a sturdy fence.

If there are only a few needs to address, it is possible to get by with purchasing the desired replacement blade(s) for the edger and swapping them in as necessary. While this may be easy to do, this transition does add some time to yard work.

Cutting Width and Depth

The cutting width of a lawn edger can refer to the cutting width of a combined trimmer and edger tool, but it may also simply indicate the physical width of the edger. This can impact the ability of the edger to access tight corners or any areas restricted by fences, decks, patios, foliage, or even the home.

However, a more important consideration is the depth of the edger, which refers to the maximum depth the edger blade can penetrate into the ground. Typically, corded-electric, gas-powered, and battery-powered lawn edgers have a blade depth of about 2 to 6 inches. This allows the blade to plunge into the turf to cut and remove deep root systems. Manual lawn edgers often have a limit of about 2 to 4 inches to the cutting depth, though this is still deep enough to cut through most root growth.

Wheel Configuration

While a lightweight manual edging tool moves on nothing more than the user’s guidance, the weight of an engine typically requires three or four wheels to cover a property without causing strain to the operator. The rear wheels are responsible for moving the entire unit along, while a guide wheel keeps the blade aligned with the task at hand.

Some gas-powered lawn edgers offer the addition of a fourth wheel (a “curb wheel”) to help stabilize the edger when using it at a slight drop-off, such as the line where the lawn meets the street. If opting for an electric lawn edger or if there isn’t a need to maneuver around many curbs, three wheels are likely sufficient.

Ease of Use

Using a lawn edger can be tiring, especially for those who are toiling away with a manual edger, but there are several factors that can help make the work easier. These include the size of the shaft, the weight of the edger, and the runtime of both battery-powered and gas-powered edgers.

• The shaft of a lawn edger can vary in length and size depending on the specific tool. Some edgers have two handles to help maneuver heavy engines, while others have a single shaft to control the movement of lightweight edgers. Look for an edger that suits the user’s height and strength to prevent overexertion while edging.
• The weight of a lawn edger can wear on the user, especially when working in a very large yard or dealing with many precision cuts in tight spaces. The additional time spent edging can cause lasting aches and pains, but switching to a lighter lawn edger can reduce muscle strain and fatigue.
• The runtime of both gas- and battery-powered lawn edgers can limit the amount of work that can be completed. Gas edgers need to be refilled with gas, and batteries need to be recharged. Keep these limitations in mind, especially when working on very large yards. Consider purchasing a spare battery so that one can always be on the charger.

Safety

Safety needs to be a priority at all times, but especially for those who are operating a tool designed to cut through solid earth and tough root systems; otherwise, serious injuries can occur. Look for products with built-in features to help keep the user safer while they work, such as debris guards, trigger locks, and padded grips.

• Debris guards are typically positioned at the back of the edger to prevent grass, dirt, and rocks from being kicked back into the feet and legs of the user. However, even with a guard, some debris can escape, so users should always wear safety glasses, long pants, and closed-toe shoes while working.
• Trigger locks prevent the edger from being turned on accidentally. A trigger lock is a simple feature that locks the trigger unless the trigger lock switch is being held. With the switch held down, the edger can be used normally.
• Padded grips on the shaft and handle of the edger help to reduce vibrations. Strong and continuous vibrations can cause muscle fatigue and strain, but this padding keeps the user’s hands protected and makes it easier to grip and control the edger.

Additional Features

Many manufacturers offer product features beyond the basic design to help improve the functionality of the lawn edger and to make the tool more appealing to users. These additional features can include two-in-one trimming and edging tools, adjustable auxiliary handles, and accessories.

• A two-in-one trimming and edging tool gives the user the option to choose between trimming the grass or edging the lawn. These combined edging and trimming tools are useful for small to medium yards, but it may be better to invest in a separate edging tool for homes with larger yards.
• Adjustable auxiliary handles provide an additional place for the user to grip the edger for better balance and control. The auxiliary handle can also be slid up or down the shaft to a position that is better suited for the height of the user. The more suited the position of the handle is to the natural movement of the user’s body, the easier it is to use the tool.
• Accessories can include a wide range of products that can be packaged together with the edger, including extension cords, extra batteries, and chargers.

FAQs

After reading the various shopping tips and factors involved in selecting a lawn edger, you may still have a few questions about the best depth for edging or how frequently a lawn should be edged. For answers to these questions and more, continue reading.

Q. What is the best way to edge a lawn?

Choose a suitable lawn edger that meets your preferences and needs for yard work. This can include a battery-powered edger, a gas lawn edger, a corded-electric lawn edger, and a manual lawn edger.

When you have the tool of choice ready for the job, mark out the exact area you want to edge. This step becomes less important with more experienced individuals who can eyeball the exact cut, but for DIYers new to edging, this is an important step to ensure the edging line is even along the entire border of the yard or garden. Consider marking the area with stakes and string, especially when working with rounded corners and curving garden beds.

Mow the lawn first to help create a clean edge at a consistent depth, and proceed to cut thin strips of sod from the edge of the lawn, ensuring that the edger tool remains within the boundaries laid out. If the lawn edger has a variable speed trigger, it can be easier to get precise lines while edging. When the job is done, clean up the driveway, path, or sidewalk with a leaf blower or a broom.

Q. How deep should I edge my lawn?

Typically about 2 to 4 inches deep is sufficient for controlling the growth and spread of grass roots, keeping the grass from growing into the gaps in the patio or walkway.

Q. Do you edge every time you mow?

It depends on the grass. Some grass grows and spreads very quickly, so you need to at least check the edge lines every time you mow. While most yards won’t require edging every time the grass is mowed, it’s likely to need edging every two or three times it’s been cut with a mower.

Q. Should I edge before or after I mow?

Whether you edge or mow first is almost entirely a matter of preference. If you choose to edge first, the mower will help clean up excess grass clippings, but if you mow first then it’s easier to create a straight edge at a consistent depth.

Q. What is the easiest edger to use?

Ease of use varies among people and products, but one of the easiest edgers to use is the Bully Tools 92251 Round Lawn Edger. Just line up the manual spade edger and push down with your foot to cut into the turf. Continue this process along the entire edge to complete the job.

Q. What is the best gas-powered edger?

A gas-powered edger is a heavy-duty tool equipped with a powerful motor and durable shaft to help cut through thick turf. The McLane 101-5.5GT-7Gas Powered Lawn Edger is among the best gas-powered options available.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.