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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.
Best Overall
Cyclone Desert Extrusion CY095S3 .095u0022 x 855'
The Cyclone .095-inch, 6-blade trimmer line can confidently accomplish any trimming task. Featuring a copolymer formulation, this string offers increased strength and abrasion resistance compared with old-fashioned nylon string—so it lasts all day long. The nearly round shape provides plenty of durability to hold up against abrasion while edging curbs and fence lines.
Six edges along the length of the string provide maximum cutting efficiency for tall thick grass, heavy weeds, and even woody seedlings and vines. The edges help dissipate heat, virtually eliminating welding. Whether users have a small lot in town or a few acres in the country, this trimmer line is a great choice.
Product Specs
- Material: Copolymer
- Shape: Multi-sided
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 855 feet
Pros
- 6-blade design
- Abrasion-resistant
- Minimal heat generation
- Ample quantity provided
- Comes in multiple quantities
Cons
- Ends may split easily
- Pricey
Get the Cyclone Desert trimmer line on Amazon.
Runner Up
Oregon 20-020 Magnum Gatorline Supertwist
Oregon’s .095-inch Magnum Gatorline Supertwist trimmer line incorporates a high-strength inner core with high wear resistance. It offers more efficient cutting and less downtime for reloading, plus better fuel economy and reduced noise.
Twisted line has less wind resistance, so it produces less drag than solid line, which boosts fuel economy. Reduced wind resistance also cuts down on vibration and noise. The large .095-inch diameter is suitable for heavy weeds, light brush in residential settings, and light commercial work.
Product Specs
- Material: Gatorline
- Shape: Twisted
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 282 feet
Pros
- High-strength inner core
- Fuel-efficient and noise-reducing
- Twisted trimmer line for less noise
- Affordable
Cons
- Not recommended for heavy-duty use
Get the Oregon supertwist on Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Maxpower 333695 Residential Grade Round .095-Inch
Those who like to save money by buying in bulk won’t be disappointed in the Maxpower .095-inch round trimmer line. This big 855-foot roll will reload a trimmer 42 times for maximum value. And this is no poorly made product—it’s an excellent value for a tough .095-inch nylon monofilament round trimmer line.
Although this string tears through dense, heavy vegetation, it also does a solid job trimming grass and minor weeds. Plus, it offers great abrasion resistance and tensile strength while trimming around concrete walls, curbs, and stone.
Product Specs
- Material: Nylon monofilament
- Shape: Round
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 855 feet
Pros
- Suitable for heavy-duty use
- Nylon monofilament round line
- Abrasion-resistant
- Approximately 42 refills
Cons
- May break easily
Get the Maxpower trimmer line on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Upgrade Pick
Oregon 22-855 Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum
This Upgrade Pick is for serious yard work. Oregon .155-inch Magnum Gatorline square trimmer line offers high cutting efficiency for cleaner, straighter cuts with less effort. It is super durable, with a high-strength inner core that resists breakage, meaning users will spend more time trimming and less time winding spools. The square profile slices through vegetation with a clean, even pass.
This string is outstanding for trimming large properties, heavy vegetation and underbrush, or cleaning up the vegetable garden at the end of the season. Not every trimmer can handle the large .155-inch diameter of the string, so users should check their owner’s manual before buying. For big jobs and big trimmers, this is the best trimmer line on this list.
Product Specs
- Material: Gatorline
- Shape: Square
- Diameter: .155 inches
- Total Length: 246 feet
Pros
- High-strength inner core
- Square trimmer line
- Suitable for large yards and projects
Cons
- May break or wear out when hitting rocks or fences
Get the Oregon Heavy-Duty trimmer line on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Best for Pros
Oregon 22-595 Gatorline Heavy-Duty Professional
Oregon 22-595 Gatorline professional round trimmer line is built for more production and less downtime. The round profile and durable, high-strength inner core resist wear and breakage, while the outer shell prevents welding.
These features equal less frequent reloading, no stopping to unstick the line—and less total trimmer line consumption through the season. The thick .095 diameter line is a good size for heavy weeds, thick grass, and brush in a variety of settings, including residential and commercial properties.
Product Specs
- Material: Gatorline
- Shape: Round
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 1,447 feet
Pros
- Smooth round profile
- High-strength inner core
- Suitable for residential and commercial use
Cons
- May tangle
- Pricey compared to similar options
Get the Oregon Gatorline trimmer line on Amazon.
Best for Edging
Husqvarna String Trimmer Line .095-Inch
A steel-bladed edger is the best choice to set the initial landscape edges along curbs, walkways, and bedlines. Afterward, the edge is easy to maintain with a string trimmer. This Husqvarna Titanium Force trimmer line is made of commercial-grade copolymer material for longer life and better performance.
The combination of superior abrasion-resistant material and the ideal round shape allows this .095-inch grooved string to hold up well while working around concrete and stone. It offers fast acceleration and level flight, allowing for reduced fuel consumption and quieter operation.
For users with a lot of edging, this string will help finish the job quickly and efficiently, and the package includes a convenient line-cutting tool. Overall, this weed eater string receives high marks for durability, longevity, and value.
Product Specs
- Material: Copolymer
- Shape: Round
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 140 feet
Pros
- Commercial-grade copolymer material
- Includes line-cutting tool
- Abrasion-resistant
- Low noise
- Best for trimming grass
Cons
- Not recommended for heavy-duty use
- Limited quantity compared to similar options
Get the Husqvarna trimmer line on Amazon, Tractor Supply Co. (200 feet), and Lowe’s (840 feet).
Best for Tall Grass
Arnold Maxi Edge .095-Inch x 100-Foot Commercial
The thickness and nearly round profile of the Arnold Maxi Edge .095-inch trimmer line give it excellent durability and abrasion resistance. This string’s six edges provide superior grass cutting capability. The combination of high-grade material and a well-designed shape allows users to cut up to three times more area with this string than economy trimmer string.
Tall grass is no match for this trimmer line; it’s precisely what users need to get the yard back in shape after a week of rain and a missed mowing or two. This package includes enough string for five refills and a convenient line-cutting tool.
Product Specs
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Multi-sided
- Diameter: .095 inches
- Total Length: 100 feet
Pros
- Nearly round profile
- Six-edged line
- Includes line-cutting tool
- Affordable
Cons
- May break easily
Get the Arnold Maxi Edge trimmer line on Amazon, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s.
Best for Large Yards
Weed Warrior 17067 .080” Diameter x 100’ Bi-Component
This .080-inch twist trimmer line from Weed Warrior is made of a two-component polymer material for better wear resistance and aggressive cutting action. The twisted profile shape maximizes aerodynamics for reduced wind drag, vibration, and noise. It makes a clean, level cut in a single pass.
A large yard often has many obstacles to trim, which means extended time on the weed wacker and increased wear and tear on the line. This durable, efficient spiral-shaped trimmer line gets the job done without stopping to re-spool or untangle.
Product Specs
- Material: Two-component polymer
- Shape: Twisted
- Diameter: .080 inches
- Total Length: 100 feet
Pros
- Two-component polymer material
- Aerodynamic design
- Twisted profile shape
- Reduced noise
- Affordable
Cons
- May break when hitting hard surfaces
Get the Weed Warrior trimmer lawn on Amazon.
Best for Small Yards
Maxpower 333180 Residential Grade Round .080-Inch
Maxpower’s residential grade round nylon string trimmer line features a simple yet durable round shape that efficiently cuts through the grass with ease. The .080-inch diameter fits most residential-style weed wackers, including cordless, plug-in electric, and gas-powered models.
For users who’ve run into the problem of storing a large spool of trimmer line for the winter only to find it has turned brittle, a smaller package solves the problem. This string comes in a 340-foot pack, enough for about 17 spool refills or a single season of use in most smaller yards.
Product Specs
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Round
- Diameter: .080 inches
- Total Length: 340 feet
Pros
- Fits most weed wacker heads
- Round nylon line
- Compact storage case
- Supplies 17 spool refills
Cons
- Not recommended for heavy-duty use
- Some users have reported manufacturing defects
Get the Maxpower trimmer line on Amazon.
Best for Thick Brush
Oregon 22-955 Gatorline Heavy-Duty Professional
Coarse weeds and thick brush easily wear through residential grade trimmer line, but Oregon heavy-duty square trimmer line is made for the job. It features aggressive, four-sided cutting, a high-strength inner core, and a thick .155-inch diameter ideal for tough cutting conditions in dense vegetation.
This line is suitable for heavy-duty weed wacker heads and engines rated 45 cc and larger. Users should refer to the operator’s manual to ensure the trimmer is compatible with this line.
Product Specs
- Material: Gatorline
- Shape: Square
- Diameter: .155 inches
- Total Length: 42 feet
Pros
- Comes in multiple lengths
- Four-sided cutting line
- High-strength inner core
- Suitable for 45 cc engines and larger
Cons
- May tangle
- May not fit weed wackers with engines smaller than 45 cc
Get the Oregon Gatorline Heavy-Duty trimmer line on Amazon.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a reliable way to weed your lawn or garden with a weed wacker, look no further than the Cyclone Desert trimmer string. This .095-inch, multi-sided weed wacker string is made with a durable copolymer, offering abrasion resistance while cutting brush, weeds, and grass. Alternatively, the Maxpower trimmer line comes with an ample 855 feet of .095-inch line made with nylon monofilament for heavy-duty weeding and lawn maintenance.
How We Chose the Best Weed Eater Strings
We researched the best trimmer lines in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their materials, shape, thickness, the quantity provided, and other special features included by top brands.
While searching for the best string trimmer lines on the market, the most popular types among users were made with gatorline, nylon, polymer, and colymer and had round, square, twisted, and multi-sided designs, each with their unique durability, cutting power, and noise- and vibration-reduction. We also included weed wacker strings of varying sizes for light- to heavy-duty yard work, ranging from .080 to .155 inches, making them compatible with a range of residential and commercial weed wacker heads.
For added convenience, these top picks range from 140 to 1,447 feet long for effective cutting, all season long. Plus, some of these weed wacker strings were made with durable inner cores, protective outer layers, and even storage cases for ease of use.
FAQs
Now that you have more information about weed eater string and some of the top product picks, it should be easier to make a choice. Before you do, here are a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that will help you get you up and running with your new weed wacker string.
Q: What is the thickest weed eater line?
Trimmer line ranges in size from about .065-inch to .170-inch. Large diameter line requires a properly sized trimmer head and more power to operate. Be sure to check the weed wacker’s operator’s manual for compatibility before attempting to load a new size.
Q: Is square trimmer line better than round?
Square trimmer line has four hard cutting edges that are designed to aggressively cut through coarse weeds and green underbrush, where it excels. Round line is quieter and more fuel-efficient due to reduced wind resistance. It is also more durable than square line of the same size because it consists of more material. For generally weed-free lawns, round line could be the best choice.
Q: How do I install a new weed eater string?
Some string trimmers require pre-cut lengths of line. Others use either one or two long lengths of line that wind onto a spool. You may need to remove the spool from the housing or load it in place. Refer to the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions for your specific trimmer brand and model.
Q: Which way should I wind the weed eater string?
Wind the string in the opposite direction of its rotation. In most cases, you’ll want to wind the string counterclockwise. Many trimmer manufacturers imprint an arrow on the spool to show the proper direction to wind the string.
Q: How often do I have to replace the weed eater string?
As long as it is feeding properly and in good working order, you only need to replace the string when it runs out. Old string or string that has been exposed to the elements for an extended period can become brittle and may need to be replaced.