Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmer Reviews. Ryobi weed trimmer

Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmer Reviews

If you wish to have a perfectly manicured lawn, then owning just a lawn mower is never enough. No matter how well a lawn mower cuts the grass, you will always have to deal with the grass around the trees and flowerbeds or near the fences and driveways. To deal with this grass efficiently, you need a weed eater string trimmer.

AT A GLANCE: Our Top Picks for Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmers

On the market, there are available hundreds of models of string trimmers that are gas-powered or electric. While the decision of which string trimmer you need will be based on a series of personal factors, the truth is that some of the most popular weed eaters string trimmers are electric and manufactured by Ryobi.

Today, I’m going to explain the main differences between the gas-powered and electric models and tell you why to pick a Ryobi tool. Then, read the Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmer reviews to decide which one is the best for you.

Gas String Trimmer vs. Electric String Trimmers

On the market, there are available two main types of string trimmers: gas-powered and electrical. There are pros and cons for each of them, and the final decision should be made based on the size of your lawn and on the total amount of work you have to do with this tool.

The gas string trimmers are typically more powerful compared to their electric counterparts. These trimmers have 2-cycle or 4-cycle engines and are generally preferred by the lawn care professionals. However, they are more expensive and noisier than the electric trimmers.

Pros of the gas string trimmers

Cons of the gas string trimmers

The electric string trimmers are, in most of the cases, battery-powered. They are less powerful than the gas string trimmers but are lightweight and easy to handle. These tools are great for small and medium size lawns

Pros of the electric string trimmers

Cons of the electric string trimmers

If you decided that an electric string trimmer is a right tool for you, let’s see how to pick the right electric string trimmer.

How To Pick An Electric String Trimmer

Just like the lawn mowers, there are corded and cordless electric string trimmers. The corded models are less expensive and more lightweight compared to the battery-powered ones, but you will have a limited maneuverability conditioned by the length of the cord.

If you decide to pick a corded model, you should either have a really small garden or you should invest in an extension cord too.

Here are a few things to look after before picking a corded string trimmer:

• Swivel cutting head: it will allow you to perfectly manicure the lawn;
• Easily replaceable string: if you run out of string in the middle of the operation, you will probably not want to spend much time replacing it;
• Bump head or automatic feed head.

The cordless string trimmers will give you the freedom to move, therefore are suitable even for larger lawns. However, you will be limited by the battery’s autonomy. For this reason, it is essential to choose a model with a good battery.

On the market, there are available Ni-Ca and Li-Ion batteries. The first ones are less expensive but heavier and less performant. On the other hand, the Li-Ion batteries are more expensive, but they have better performances and longer lifespans.

But the battery is not the only thing to consider when buying a cordless string trimmer. You should also decide if you need a trimmer with a curved or straight shaft and if you want to use the trimmer for other chores too. In this case, you would also have to consider the accessories made for the model you like, to decide its versatility.

Once you decided what model of string trimmer you want, you only have to decide what brand to choose. One of the best string trimmer manufacturers is Ryobi, but if you haven’t used their tools before, you are probably wondering why should you buy their products. Here are a few reasons.

Why Ryobi?

Ryobi is one of the largest power tools manufacturers, the brand being owned by Techtronic Industries. Some of the most popular tools manufactured by Ryobi are the weed eaters string trimmers, that are defined as powerful and reliable.

The company manufactures many different models of string trimmers, both gas-powered and electric, including corded and cordless models. But what make Ryobi string trimmers special are a few characteristics that can be found in all these tools.

First of all, the Ryobi string trimmers are equipped with an easy line advancement designed to feed the string to the trimmer automatically.

The string trimmers are also equipped with a bump guard. This feature will not only keep safe your beloved plants, such as the flowers but will also avoid breaking the string due to collision with hard surfaces.

To make the tools comfortable, Ryobi designed all its trimmers with ergonomic handles and anti-vibration systems, while the tools usually come with a variety of attachments that will allow you to transform the trimmer into a tiller, pruner, or another type of gardening tool.

You’re Using it WRONG

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons why you should buy a Ryobi string trimmer. Read our Ryobi electric weed eater string trimmer reviews to decide which is the best tool for you.

Ryobi P2052 One 18-Volt Cordless String Trimmer

Designed for yards up to 1/3 acres, the Ryobi One is a versatile tool to have in your shed. The pivoting cutting head boasts adjustable cutting widths between 10 and 12 inches. To make trimming around the edges of the yard easy, the trimmer’s shaft is rotating, while you will also be able to adjust its length based on your own height.This string trimmer is equipped with an auto-feed line advancement of.065 inches. Weighing below 7 pounds, you should be able to handle the tool with ease.

Things We Liked

• Compatible battery: the One string trimmer is powered by an 18-volt lithium-ion battery that is compatible with all the other One tools.
• Fast recharge: the battery recharges in only 90 minutes, so you will not have to wait for a long time if you run out of power.
• Adjustable cutting diameter: to suit all your needs, this trimmer comes with an adjustable cutting head.
• Telescopic shaft: the One string trimmer has a straight telescopic shaft that can be adjusted to match your comfort.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Unfortunately, this electric weed eater string trimmer is sold without a battery and a charger, so if you don’t have another One tool already, you will have to sustain an additional cost.

Ryobi RY40210 Electric 40V Cordless String Trimmer Edger

Powerful and versatile, the Ryobi RY40210 is powered by a 40-volt lithium-ion battery that boasts a longer autonomy compared to a Ryobi 2-cylinder gas trimmer. You can use this tool either to trim the grass and weeds or as a walk-behind edger by simply flipping the cutting head.As all the string trimmers manufactured by Ryobi, this tool also has an auto-feed function and works with a.080 inches single twisted line. The RY40210 comes with a 5-year limited warranty for the tool and a 3-year limited warranty for the battery.

Things We Liked

• Variable speed: you can choose between a more powerful cutting or a longer battery life by choosing the desired speed.
• Foot pedal adjustment: switching between trimmer and edger is simple with the convenient foot pedal adjustment.
• Up to 13 inches cutting width: the pivoting cutting head can be adjusted to the more suitable width between 11 and 13 inches.
• Ryobi ConneXion attachments: for more versatility, this trimmer is compatible with all the Ryobi ConneXion attachments.

RYOBI P2210 One 18V Li-Ion Cordless Electric String Weed Grass Trimmer Edger

The P2210 is a hybrid string trimmer and edger from the One series. Functioning with the same 18-volt lithium-ion battery as the One P2052 string trimmer reviewed earlier, this trimmer and edger can use the battery of any other One tool.What is really amazing about the P2210 is its dual power source that gives you unlimited power or mobility. Basically, you will be able to use this tool with the battery or power it with the power cord so you don’t have to stop trimming or edging while waiting for the battery to recharge.

Things We Liked

• Easy to assemble: this trimmer is very simple to assemble and you will be able to use the tool in less than 5 minutes.
• Telescopic shaft: no matter how tall you are, you will be able to adjust the height of the trimmer to a comfortable position.
• Dual power source: in addition to the 18-volt battery, this trimmer also has an extension cord port that will allow you to use an alternative power source when the battery drains out.
• Battery and charger included: if this is your first One tool, it is a relief to know that it comes with a battery and charger.

Ryobi RY40220 40V Cordless Expand-It X String Trimmer

One of the most versatile cordless string trimmers manufactured by Ryobi is the RY40220 that features the convenient Expand-It system. This system basically allows you to transform the trimmer into an edger, blower or cultivator by simply using the dedicated attachments.Another great feature of the RY40220 is the REEL-EASY bump-feed string head that is designed for a faster reload of the.080 inches twisted dual line string. With this convenient feature and with the thick string, this tool is perfect for all types of grass and weed.

Things We Liked

• Adjustable cutting width: depending on the size of your lawn or on any other characteristics, you can adjust the cutting width from 13 to 15 inches.
• Variable speed: decide if you want more power or longer autonomy and adjust the speed accordingly.
• Designed for larger lawns: this weed eater trimmer is designed for lawns up to 1 acre.
• Versatile: the Expand-It attachment will allow you to transform the tool for multiple uses.

Ryobi ZRP2002 ONE 18V Cordless 12-in String Trimmer

Another excellent tool in the One category is the ZRP2002. Unlike the other Ryobi electric weed eater string trimmers reviewed, the ZRP2002 doesn’t feature an adjustable cutting width. However, the 12-inch width is excellent for most types of grass and for any size of the lawns.This trimmer also has a pivoting cutting head and an auto-feed system for the.065 inches line. For your comfort, the trimmer has a telescopic straight shaft.

Things We Liked

• Versatile: it is really easy to transform the trimmer into an edger with a simple push of a button.
• Compatible battery and recharger: you will be able to use the battery and recharger of any One tool you have.
• Lightweight: weighing a little over 7 pounds, this tool is very easy to handle.
• Long-lasting battery: the 18-volt battery provides sufficient power for up to 45 minutes of trimming or edging.

Things We Didn’t Like

• It seems that the auto-feed feature doesn’t have an excellent functioning, and you will probably have to feed the string manually by operating a button.

Other Brands to Consider

Of course after reading these Ryobi weed eater reviews you might find that you’d like to consider some alternatives as well. We have reviewed a number of other brands as well which you can read about below:

Conclusion and Final Pick

As you can see in our Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmer Reviews, depending on the size of your lawn, type of grass and personal preferences, you should be able to find the right Ryobi string trimmer.

Our favorite Ryobi trimmer is the Ryobi RY40210 Electric 40V Cordless String Trimmer Edger. This tool is versatile, it has an adjustable cutting width and can be transformed from a trimmer into an edger with a simple touch.

In addition, the tool is also compatible with all the ConneXion attachments manufactured by the company and comes with a powerful 40-volt battery.

Ryobi could manufacture this tool with a telescopic shaft to improve the comfort, but the overall characteristics make this tool the best Ryobi Electric Weed Eater String Trimmer available on the market.

If Ryobi isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, don’t fret, as there are plenty of other models on the market.​

The RYOBI RY40204A Electric Weed Eater is a cordless electric weed eater with an impressive battery run-time.

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

The RYOBI RY40204A is a 40-volt trimmer with the power to run longer than many other battery-powered weed eaters and a good range of extra features too.

Cons

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The RYOBI RY40204A Electric Weed Eater is a great all-round electric weed eater. It’s a battery-powered lawn trimmer that can keep cutting for longer than most other battery-powered weed eaters, so it can handle larger gardens with ease. It’s also lightweight, at just 5lbs it ties with the Sun Joe TRJ13STE for the lightest model in our round up of the best electric weed eaters.

While it’s not as adjustable as some of the other electric weed eaters on our list, it does still have a wide range of features that make it a great addition to the garden shed. It’s also a little pricier than some of the other weed eaters we’ve looked at, but it does sit in that sweet spot of not being limited by a cord, while still providing great cutting power, so it’s not surprising that this adds to the cost.

RYOBI RY40204A: Pricing and value

The RYOBI RY40204A is priced at around 110, so while it’s not as expensive as the Worx WG163, it is almost four times the price of our best budget pick, the Sun Joe TRJ13STE. However, we do think this weed eater offers good value, even at the higher price point.

Battery models tend to be that bit more expensive anyway and, if you have a large area to trim, a cord can be limiting. But, battery models don’t often allow for long cutting times, so to find one that does offer the power to cover a larger area with the convenience of being cordless is a big plus. It’s also been well-thought-out in terms of extra features, so this is an electric weed eater we’d happily pay that bit more for.

RYOBI RY40204A: Features

It’s the 40-volt battery supplied with the RYOBI RY40204A that allows it to combine the convenience of cordless with fantastic run time, even allowing it to beat the run time of most gas trimmers without experiencing power fade. It’s also quick to charge too, often taking less than a couple of hours, much quicker than the five hours of charging the Worx WG163 batteries tend to need.

The auto-feed string head allows you to advance the line with the pull of the trigger and an 11 to 13-inch adjustable cutting width lets you choose between longer run time or a wider cutting path. The trigger is also a safety trigger, so you can prevent accidentally starting the weed eater.

It might not be as adjustable as the Black Decker LST300, but it is really lightweight and has been designed to balance its weight well. It does have fittings for a shoulder strap to be added, but the strap itself isn’t included. Like the Black Decker LST300 it does have edging capabilities and switches between the two functions easily.

RYOBI RY40204A: User reviews

User reviews are generally really positive, so the RYOBI RY40204A Weed Eater scores an average of 4.3 out of five at Walmart. Users reported that it was powerful and efficient, with the battery often lasting for over an hour of cutting before it needed recharging. Reviewers noted that it both trimmed and edged nicely, leaving them with manicured flower beds.

The odd reviewer had trouble with the line advancing not working and found they had to do it manually, but they also noted that they weren’t sure whether it was a design flaw or a one off problem.

Overall, reviews were really positive, with users loving being able to have the convenience of a cordless weed eater as well as a long enough battery life to cut and edge as they needed to.

Should you buy the RYOBI RY40204A?

The RYOBI RY40204A Weed Eater is a great all-rounder for both trimming and edging. It may be a bit pricier than other models, but that’s because it does a great job of combining the ease of cordless with a great battery run time. While it is lightweight, the lack of an adjustable shaft and handle means the Black Decker LST300 could be a better option for anyone who finds using a weed eater to be a strain.

It’s also on the expensive side and if a corded model isn’t a dealbreaker for you, then the Greenworks 21142 could save you some money. It’s a powerful weed eater at almost half the price of the RYOBI Weed Eater.

The 10 Best Weed Eaters of 2023

Michelle Ullman is a home decor expert and product reviewer for home and garden products. She has been writing about home decor for over 10 years for publications like BobVila.com and Better Homes Gardens, among others.

Mary Marlowe Leverette is one of the industry’s most highly-regarded housekeeping and fabric care experts, sharing her knowledge on efficient housekeeping, laundry, and textile conservation. She is also a Master Gardener with over 40 years of experience and 20 years of writing experience. Mary is also a member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

Whether you call it a “weed eater,” “weed whacker,” or “string trimmer,” these landscaping tools are ideal for trimming grass and weeds along the edge of a flowerbed, around a tree trunk, underneath a deck, and in other hard-to-reach places.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, the CEO of Lawn Love, says, “A weed whacker can quickly and effectively trim grass, weeds, and other unwanted plant growth in areas difficult to reach with a mower or shears. When choosing one, the most important thing to look for is the power it offers, as well as the size and weight of the tool. Gas weed eaters are the most powerful, but electric models are best for most homeowners.”

He cautions, “To ensure safe use of a weed whacker, always wear the appropriate protective gear, including goggles and gloves, stand with your feet apart for balance, hold the tool’s handle firmly but comfortably with both hands, and never operate the weed whacker without its guard attached.”

Best Overall

Ryobi 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Electric Cordless String Trimmer

If you want the power of a gas weed eater but the convenience of a battery-powered tool, then this 40-volt offering from Ryobi is the answer. Our top choice of string trimmer is loaded with great features, including a brushless motor for longer life with less required maintenance and an adjustable handle so you can position it comfortably for your height. We also appreciate its two-speed trigger with variable speed control, so you can go faster when you need extra power for tough weeds or brush, and slow the tool down to extend the battery run-time when merely cutting small weeds and grass. Plus, it has an adjustable cutting width, with a minimum of 13 inches and a maximum of 15 inches.

This string trimmer comes with 0.085-inch string, which is good for trimming grass and weeds, but you can also load it with 0.095-inch string if desired for tackling tougher weeds, light brush, or thick grass. Either way, the weed whacker is very easy to reload, thanks to the REEL EASY head, which can be rewound in under 60 seconds. When you want to let out more string, a gentle bump of the tool against the ground advances just the right amount so you can keep working without having to stop and let out line by hand. The tool also comes with a set of serrated plastic blades, which can be fitted into the tool’s head in place of string. Use the blades for cutting tougher brush and weeds. While not nearly as strong as metal blades, these do a good job on softer weeds and grasses, but they aren’t sturdy enough for woody weeds.

This versatile weed eater works with the Ryobi line of Expand-It accessories, sold separately, which can turn your string trimmer into a pole saw, electric hedge trimmer, soil cultivator, snow thrower, blower, and more quickly and easily. The weed whacker comes with one Ryobi lithium-ion 40-volt battery and charger, which are compatible with any other Ryobi tool using a 40-volt battery. Depending on conditions, you can get up to one hour and 10 minutes of run-time from the battery before needing to recharge.

Price at time of publish: 213

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 11.3 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 40 volts | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 15 inches

Best Budget

Greenworks 5.5 Amp 15-Inch Corded Electric String Trimmer

Just because a weed whacker comes at a budget price, that doesn’t mean you have to forgo great features, as this corded electric offering from Greenworks proves. Plug the tool into an outdoor-rated extension cord up to 100 feet in length; no smelly gasoline fumes or worrying about a battery running down before you finish. Suited to a small-to-medium yard, this string trimmer’s head easily pivots for use as a trimmer or an edger, doubling its versatility. It has a 15-inch cutting swath and uses 0.065-inch string, which automatically advances as the exposed string wears down. When you need to reload the string, you can use pre-filled spools or rewind bulk string onto the spool that comes with the tool. However, you cannot use heavy-weight string with this weed eater, and if you choose to rewind the spool, rather than replace it, it can be a bit tricky to do correctly.

The handle telescopes from 40 inches to 50 inches, and the grip is also adjustable, so you can set the weed whacker to fit your own height, making it comfortable to use for lengthy gardening sessions. Its 5.5-amp motor runs smoothly and quietly and has enough power to quickly cut through grass and non-woody weeds. At only seven pounds, this is a reasonably lightweight string trimmer, so it won’t wear you down before the job is through.

Price at time of publish: 90

Type: Corded electric | Weight: 7 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 5.5 amp | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 15 inches

Best Gas

Echo 25.4 cc Gas 2-Stroke Straight Shaft Trimmer

If you have a large area of brush, overgrown grass, or woody weeds to clear, then you’ll appreciate the extra power of a gas weed eater like this offering from Echo, which runs on a 25.4 cc, professional-grade two-stroke engine. Like other gas-powered weed eaters, you’ll need to fill the gas tank with a 50:1 ratio of fuel to oil mix. Echo’s i-30 starting system makes it much easier to start up this weed eater than most others, and once powered on, this sturdy beast chews steadily through just about anything you ask it to. The handles are padded and ergonomically shaped for comfort and are also designed to greatly reduce the amount of vibration that reaches your hands and arms.

The 0.095-inch heavy-duty string advances with a bump of the tool against the ground. When the string runs out, the Echo Speed-Feed system requires no tools and takes only seconds to reload; no frustrating fuss or bother. With a 17-inch cutting swath, you can work your way across the lawn quickly. Should you need even more powerful cutting action, Echo sells a separate conversion kit that lets you swap out the string head for a metal-bladed head that easily cuts through thick underbrush and overgrown weeds. Be aware that this weed eater is quite loud and does emit gas fumes, as is typical for gas-powered tools.

Price at time of publish: 329

Type: Gas | Weight: 13.4 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 25.4 cc | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 17 inches

Best Cordless/Battery

Ryobi ONE 18-Volt Cordless Battery String Trimmer

Go cordless with this lightweight string trimmer that’s designed to take care of small-to-medium yards. The curved shaft makes it easy to maneuver around shrubs, rocks, and tree trunks, and the handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip. Plus, weighing a mere four pounds, this is a weed eater that shouldn’t tire you out. It’s powered by an 18-volt battery that recharges in an hour and runs for anywhere from 8 to 15 minutes per charge, depending on how you use it. And with a simple push of a button, you can switch the head’s orientation: use it horizontally for trimming and vertically for edging.

The cutting swath of this tool is 10 inches, which is on the small side but can be a good thing if you are edging a flowerbed or other area with many obstacles to work around. It can only use 0.065-inch string and automatically feeds out more string as required. It’s not too difficult to reload once the string runs out. The weed whacker comes with an 18-volt battery that can be used in other 18V Ryobi tools, as well as a charger. Note that it is not compatible with Ryobi’s Expand-It attachments, however.

Price at time of publish: 69

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 4 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 18-volt | Shaft Type: Curved | Maximum Cutting Width: 10 inches

Best Corded Electric

Ryobi 10-Amp Attachment-Capable Corded String Trimmer

As long as you have an outdoor-rated extension cord up to 100 feet, and you don’t need to trim beyond that point, a corded electric weed eater is a great option. You get a lot of power, like you would from a gas-powered tool, but you also get the benefits of a cordless tool, including no smelly fumes, no need to keep gasoline on hand, and an easy start at the push of a button. Plus, there’s no need to worry about your battery running out too soon. This corded weed whacker from Ryobi is loaded with great options beyond the above: It has a 10-amp motor for maximum performance, it cuts an impressive 18-inch path, and it is designed to reduce vibrations through the handle, so it’s easy on your hands, although it is relatively heavy for this type of tool.

The tool comes with 0.080-inch string, but can also use 0.095-inch string if you need something even more heavy-duty. String advances with a bump of the tool to the ground, and when it’s time to replace the reel, it’s very easy to install a new one or simply rewind bulk string around the reel. Best of all, this string trimmer is compatible with Ryobi’s extensive line of Expand-It attachments, meaning you can purchase a wide variety of optional attachments to turn the weed whacker into a brush cutter, hedge trimmer, pole saw, snow thrower, and more. However, its head does not pivot for use as an edger, as do many other weed eaters.

Price at time of publish: 90

Type: Corded electric | Weight: 11 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 10 amp | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 18 inches

Best Under 200

BLACKDECKER 20V 12 Inch Lithium Ion Cordless 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger

Here’s a reasonably priced tool that effectively whacks weeds with the head in a horizontal position and then serves as an edger when you rotate the head into a vertical orientation. This battery-powered, 20-volt string trimmer from BLACKDECKER is perfect for small-to-medium-sized lawns and has enough power to chew through typical grass and weeds (although this isn’t the tool for tough brush or heavily overgrown lawns). You can adjust the handle up or down to suit your height. The cutting width of this weed eater is set at 12 inches, which is somewhat narrow but sufficient for small yards.

The weed eater comes with 0.065-inch line, which is suited to light use on grass and small weeds. Note that you cannot refill it with heavier line. The line advances automatically as it wears down with use, so you don’t need to carry the task out manually or bump the tool on the ground. The weed whacker comes with the 20-volt battery and charger, which are compatible with other BLACKDECKER cordless tools. Run-time before needing to recharge the battery varies greatly, depending on yard conditions, but you will typically get anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes on a single charge, which is enough to finish trimming or edging a small lawn.

Price at time of publish: 89

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 7.1 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 20 volts | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 12 inches

Best Rated

WORX WG163 GT 20V Power Share Cordless String Trimmer Edger

The WORX Power Share cordless weed eater just keeps racking up high ratings; this weed whacker has more than 20,000 customer ratings and an average of 4.5 stars. But that’s not really surprising, considering that this 20-volt tool comes with two batteries, so you can have one charging and one in use, doubling your working time. The batteries and charger are compatible with any other 20-volt WORX tool. You can easily pivot the head on the weed eater to turn it from trimmer to edger, and it’s easy to angle it for use on a slope or when reaching into awkward spots between plants or around obstacles. When using it as an edger, its rubber wheels help you stay in a steady line.

This weed whacker uses 0.065-inch string, which is easy to advance at the push of a button, thanks to the Command Feed spool system. But most amazing of all, WORX will send you free refill spools of string for the life of the tool; you just pay for shipping. This will come in handy, since the string can run out quickly. It also has a 12-inch cutting diameter, which isn’t the highest but is quite sufficient for average-sized lawns and yards. And at only 5.3 pounds, this is a lightweight string trimmer that’s easy to use even when your gardening sessions stretch out long.

Price at time of publish: 140

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 5.3 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 20 volts | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 12 inches

Best Splurge

DeWALT 60-Volt Cordless Attachment-Capable String Trimmer Kit

If you use your string trimmer frequently and want lots of power as well as useful features, then you’ll appreciate the DeWALT weed whacker, which is a cordless model running off a 60-volt battery; that’s a lot of power, although it does add to the overall weight of the product. The high-efficiency brushless motor requires no maintenance to keep on running smoothly and fairly silently. There’s a two-speed, variable control trigger, so you can turn it up high when you need maximum power for chewing through brush or tall grass, or turn it down low to extend the battery run-time. You can even adjust the cutting width between 15 and 17 inches.

The weed whacker comes with 0.080-inch string, but the tool can also use 0.095-inch string if you need something even more heavyweight. To advance more string, just bump the weed eater lightly against the ground. The quick-load spool makes it easy to refill the string once you run out. If you want even more versatility from this weed eater, you’ll like its universal-attachment capability, which means you can purchase a wide variety of attachments from DeWALT or other companies to transform the weed whacker into a brush cutter, hedge trimmer, pole saw, blower, tiller, and more. It comes with a 60-volt DeWALT battery that is compatible with other tools from this company, as well as a charger.

Price at time of publish: 301

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 15 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 60 volts | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 17 inches

Best with Attachments

BLACKDECKER Corded String Trimmer With Lawn Mower Attachment

With most models of string trimmers, you have to purchase attachments separately. However, this 6.5-amp corded electric weed whacker from BLACKDECKER comes with a lawnmower attachment, making this a highly versatile tool for small backyards. In fact, it’s three tools in one: edger, string trimmer, and lawnmower. It’s especially good for mowing on slopes or hills where a traditional lawnmower can be hard to maneuver. And it can be used with an outdoor-rated extension cord up to 150 feet in length, so you can work your way around most small yards. Since there is no way to add a clipping bag to the tool, you can leave the grass clippings in place on the lawn to decompose into mulch or rake them up once you are finished mowing.

The string trimmer uses 0.065-inch string. There’s an automatic string feed, so you don’t have to stop and reel string out yourself or worry about bumping it against the ground while mowing. As a weed eater, the cutting swath is 12 inches. It pivots easily into edger mode. For use as a mower, the trimmer simply snaps into the mower base. You can adjust the mower’s cutting height from 1.6 inches to 2.4 inches; the mower does not have blades, but simply uses the spinning string to cut the grass, and it does a great job on most lawn types. You can even adjust the height of this tool’s handle between 33 inches and 43 inches to make it comfortable for your height.

Price at time of publish: 119

Type: Corded electric | Weight: 9.9 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 6.5 amps | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 12 inches

Best Heavy-Duty

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Quik-Lok String Trimmer

This professional-quality cordless string trimmer has the kind of power and run-time you’d expect from a gas weed eater, thanks to its M18 8.0-Ah lithium-ion battery. This sturdy weed whacker consists of two parts: a Milwaukee M18 FUEL power head with Quik-Lok and a Milwaukee M18 FUEL Quik-Lok string trimmer attachment. You can use any of Milwaukee’s other compatible attachments with the fuel head, making this a very versatile tool that can carry out a wide range of landscaping tasks. It has enough power to clear through thick brush, overgrown grass, and heavy weeds, reaching full throttle in less than a second and maintaining power without bogging down. The tool is designed for good balance, making it easy to carry and comfortable to use, even on lengthy yard tasks.

A variable-speed trigger lets you go faster when you need more power, or slow things down when you want to extend battery run-time as much as possible. The cutting width of the weed whacker adjusts from 14 to 16 inches. The string that comes with the tool is 0.080 inches, but you can also use it with heavier 0.095-inch line. Either way, you can reload the string reel in just a few seconds. When the string gets short during use, just bump the trimmer against the ground to advance more string. Not everyone needs a weed eater with this kind of power and at this price point, but for those who do, it’s hard to beat this offering from Milwaukee.

Price at time of publish: 349

Type: Cordless electric | Weight: 12.3 pounds | Engine/Battery Power: 18 volts | Shaft Type: Straight | Maximum Cutting Width: 16 inches

If you’re looking for a cordless electric weed eater that not only has plenty of power but is also loaded with great features like an adjustable cutting swath, variable speed control, and compatibility with numerous attachments for other landscaping purposes, then it’s hard to go wrong with the Ryobi 40-Volt Brushless Electric String Trimmer. But if you need the kind of power that only a gas tool can deliver, then the Echo 25.4 cc Gas 2-Stroke Straight-Shaft Trimmer is our recommendation. It has a 17-inch cutting swath and can be converted for use with metal blades instead of string.

What to Look for in a Weed Eater

Type

There are three basic types of weed eaters, based on their power source.

Gas-powered weed whackers like the Echo 25.4 cc Gas 2-Stroke Straight Shaft Trimmer are the most powerful type, making them the best suited for large properties or for chewing through heavy brush. On the downside, they are much louder than electric models and can be heavier and more difficult to start. Plus, they require you to have a supply of gasoline on hand, and in many areas, they are being phased out due to their emissions.

Corded electric string trimmers are not as popular as they once were, but are still a fine choice if you are looking for a low-priced weed eater, you don’t have a very large lawn or garden to maintain, and you have access to an outdoor electrical outlet and an outdoor-rated extension cord of 50 feet or more. The Ryobi 10-Amp Attachment-Capable Corded String Trimmer has an 18-inch cutting swath and great power.

Cordless or battery-powered weed eaters are now the most popular type—the WORX Power Share WG163 is an especially highly rated option—particularly in areas where gas-powered models are restricted. Today’s cordless weed whackers have good power, although not as much as a gas-powered model. Still, they have more than enough oomph to maintain a small to medium-sized lawn. As a rough guideline, you’ll generally get half an hour or so of runtime before you need to recharge the battery. For many people, that’s all that’s needed to get the job done. If you have a big lawn, then it’s convenient to keep two batteries on hand so one can recharge while the other is in use. Other benefits of cordless weed whackers include a lack of smelly emissions, immediate starting at the press of a button, reduced vibrations, and quiet operation.

Cutting Width

A string trimmer’s cutting swath or cutting width is the width of the tool’s cutting capacity, indicating how much you’ll be able to trim in one pass. There are weed whackers with cutting swaths as small as 10 inches, and weed eaters with large 20-inch cutting widths, but most are between 12 and 16 inches. If you have a large lawn, a string trimmer with a wide cutting swath will help you trim more quickly. But if you need a tool that can squeeze between shrubs, rocks, or other obstacles, then you’ll find that a weed wacker with a smaller cutting swath can maneuver a bit more easily.

Some higher-end weed eaters have adjustable cutting swaths that let you go up or down a couple of inches. Our top choice, the Ryobi 40-Volt Brushless Electric String Trimmer, can be adjusted for cutting widths between 13 and 15 inches.

Noise Level and Vibrations

Generally, cordless string trimmers are fairly quiet; you’ll mostly hear the whirl of the string and the sound of grass or weeds giving way. However, gas-powered weed whackers are loud enough to require ear protection during use, and corded electric models may or may not be loud enough to make you want to cover your ears, depending on the brand and model. However, you should wear eye protection when using any type of weed eater, as there is always a danger of stones or debris being tossed up into your face.

Ryobi 40V battery string trimmer review

Vibration can be an issue with many weed eaters, especially gas-powered models. This can be tiring if you are using the tool for an extended session of trimming or chewing through brush. Some brands now build anti-vibration technology into their string trimmers, usually in the form of a handle that helps reduce some of the vibration. You can cut down even further on unpleasant hand numbness or fatigue by wearing a good pair of thick work gloves while you use your weed eater.

Weight

Since you’ll be holding your weed eater the entire time you are working, its weight can become an issue. You don’t want to be tired out before you finish your edging or trimming. As a general rule, electric weed eaters are quite a bit lighter than gas-powered models. The Ryobi ONE 18V Cordless Electric String Trimmer weighs a mere four pounds.

Most electric weed eaters weigh 12 pounds or less, although battery-powered models are usually heavier than those with a cord. Gas weed whackers generally weigh between 12 and 18 pounds.

Safety Features

Any weed eater should have a protective guard over the string to help keep rocks and other debris from flying toward you. However, you should always wear closed shoes, long pants, and eye protection when using these tools. Most weed whackers have the power switch placed so you can easily shut the tool off immediately should there be an emergency.

Straight or Curved Shaft

There are two basic styles of weed eater shafts: straight and curved. Curved shafts are generally easier to maneuver around rocks and other obstacles and are less tiring to the user’s back during long work sessions. However, straight shafts give you more reach and can be extended underneath shrubs or fences. Weed eaters with straight shafts often have a little more power, and battery run-time tends to be a little longer on these tools as well, but the choice between the two mostly comes down to personal preference.

String Control

Weed whackers work by spinning a thin plastic string-like cord very rapidly, which creates enough force to slice through grass, weeds, and brush. Most weed eaters have a roll of string within the base of the tool, so you can reel out more as the cord wears down, which can happen fairly quickly when working on thick brush or grass. There are three basic methods for reeling out more cord:

• Automatic feed senses when the cord is getting short and reels out more without you needing to do anything. The Greenworks 5.5 Amp 15-Inch Corded Electric String Trimmer is an auto-feed weed whacker.
• Push-button feed requires you to push a button on the weed eater’s handle to reel out more string.
• Bump-feed weed eaters reel out more cord when the trimmer is bumped against the ground.

Once the reel of string is empty, you’ll need to refill it. This is a fairly simple process for most weed eaters, but be sure to read the instructions before attempting it for the first time.

Note that there are also different thicknesses of string-trimmer lines or strings: as a general rule, 0.065-inch to 0.085-inch string is for light-to-moderate trimming of grass and weeds. For heavier weeds, brush, or tough grass, string that’s between 0.085-inches and 0.110-inches is required. Many string trimmers can use different sizes of line so you can switch them out if necessary.

Standout Features

Speed Control

Most string trimmers have just one set speed. Some higher-end models, including the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless String Trimmer, however, let you adjust the speed with either a two-speed setting or variable control. This allows you to speed up the tool for more power while tackling thicker growth or tougher brush, or slow the speed down to extend battery run-time when working on small weeds or grass.

Attachments

Some string trimmers have heads that can be adjusted from a horizontal position to a vertical orientation, which allows them to be used as an edger as well as a trimmer. Others, including the DeWALT 60-Volt Cordless Attachment-Capable String Trimmer Kit, allow you to attach a variety of separately purchased heads for other landscaping tasks such as cultivating soil, shearing hedges, mowing grass, or blowing leaves.

The vast majority of weed eaters are stringed tools, using a thin plastic cord that spins very rapidly to cut through grass and weeds. There are more powerful, but similar tools often called “brush cutters,” that use metal blades instead of plastic cord to chop through thick brush, tough weeds, and highly overgrown grass. Some weed eaters can be converted for use with blades as well as with plastic cord. Typically, only a gas weed eater has the power to convert to metal blades for cutting thick brush. The electric corded or cordless models that can cut with blades, as well as cord, typically can only handle plastic blades. These can cut light brush but can’t handle thick, woody stems as a metal-bladed brush cutter can. Neither a string nor blade weed eater is necessarily better; the best choice depends on your specific needs and the condition of your property.

Both gas and electric weed eaters have their pros and cons. Gas-powered weed eaters are stronger and aren’t tethered to an electrical outlet. However, gas weed eaters require filling with gas and oil and create smelly fumes. They are generally much louder than electric models and vibrate more during use. They are also heavier and more costly than electric models. However, for maintaining a large property or tackling thick brush or very overgrown weeds, a gas weed eater can be the better choice. For most yard cleanup, however, an electric weed eater, whether corded or cordless, is sufficient to handle grass, weeds, and light brush that isn’t too woody. Electric weed eaters don’t create smelly fumes and don’t require you to keep gasoline on hand. They generally are much quieter than gas-powered models and don’t vibrate as heavily during use, which makes them easier on your hands and arms.

There are pros and cons to both two-stroke and four-stroke (also called “two-cycle” and “four-cycle”) gas-powered weed eaters. Fewer moving parts means that two-stroke weed eaters are lighter in weight and easier to maintain than four-stroke models. They generally also have quite a bit more power. However, you will need to mix the gas with oil for two-stroke trimmers. If you’re looking for a quieter model that produces lower emissions, a four-stroke gas trimmer is the way to go. Another benefit: with four-stroke models, no mixing of gas and oil is required. Keep in mind, these models are pricier and generally weigh more than two-stroke weed eaters.

There are gas weed eaters for home use with 20 cc engines and professional models with as much as 50 cc engines, but the majority of gas-powered weed eaters used by the average homeowner have 22 cc to 28 cc engines, which provide plenty of power for tackling overgrown weeds, grass, and brush. When it comes to electric weed eaters, corded models for very light use might have as little motor power as 3 amps or as much as 10 amps, but for typical home use, a motor in the middle of that range is more than sufficient. Cordless weed eaters can use batteries between 18 volts and 80 volts, but again, the middle of that range is generally powerful enough for regular home use.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Michelle Ullman, who specializesin home and garden products. She has been writing for The Spruce since 2020, covering a wide range of home improvement products including power and hand tools, painting supplies, landscaping tools, and tool organizers. To choose the best weed eaters for this article, she consulted dozens of customer and third-party reviews, considering each product’s power source, performance, ease of use, versatility, and price point. She received additional input from Jeremy Yamaguchi, the CEO of Lawn Love.

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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The Ryobi 40V Expand-It String Trimmer Review

Ryobi 40V Expand-It Attachment Capable String Trimmer

Manufacturer: Ryobi Model number: RY40250 Power source: 40V Lithium-Ion Battery Weight: 8.92 Lbs.

This is a review of the new Ryobi 40V Expand-It Attachment Capable String Trimmer Model #RY40250. This tool is part of the new line of Ryobi 40V outdoor power equipment and is interchangeable with a large selection of attachments. information about this line is available at the Ryobi website.

A string trimmer is one of the cornerstone tools of any property owner’s power equipment arsenal. In the past battery powered versions of these tools have been under powered or had short run times.

TheRyobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer

Ryobi addressed these issue by introducing new and improved 40V lithium-ion battery technology into their new Attachment Capable (AC) String Trimmer. The attachment capable system allows you to separate the power head from the trimmer unit and swap it out for any tool head from the Ryobi line.

All of this convenience is combined into a tool that is well balanced and offers impressive performance and ease of use.

Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer Specifications:

• Battery: 40V 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion
• Cut Swath: Adjustable 13-15”
• Line Advancement: Bump Head Feed
• Line Size: 0.080”
• Trigger: Variable Speed
• Warranty: 5 Year Limited

Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer Features:

The Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer has power that Ryobi describes as GAS-LIKE and after using this tool I agree! It was able to power through thick grass and low weeds as well as a conventional homeowner gas powered model.

40 Volt Battery Powered

The power comes from Ryobi’s improved 40V batteries and a 4.0Ah version is included with the tool. The battery includes a clip on style charger that doubles as a power station. I discussed the battery and charger features in another recent review which can be found here.

My battery came dead in the box and took approximately two hours to get a full charge using the provided charger. While the power was impressive for a cordless tool, it is not at the same level as a commercial gas powered straight shaft trimmer.

Adjustable Height

The Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer has an ergonomic grip with rubber over molding and a variable speed trigger that is responsive and spools the trimmer up immediately. A padded U shaped grip is included that the user can set the height on.

This allows good balance of the tool for your height and desired trimming position. I am tall with long arms and had to shift the handle all the way up to make it comfortable for extended use. The 40V AC Trimmer lacks the felt vibration of a conventional gas powered model. It was smooth and comfortable in hand.

The head of the Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer is a traditional bump feed design and uses 0.080” line. A couple lengths of line are included, but any trimmer line of the same size will work. The coolest part though is how you change the line.

Crank until the head is fully wound. This process can be done in about a minute once you get the hang of it.

Reel-Easy Speed Winder

Ryobi refers to this as their REEL-EASY SPEED WINDER technology. Lock the head into the feed potion, feed in a 16’ length of trimmer line and center it, then use the provided plastic crank like a spanner wrench on the outside of the head to wind the spool. This is hands down the easiest reel head I have ever used to re-spool! It works very well and can be done in under a minute. The cut swath on the head is adjustable from 13-15” by moving the cutting blade on the head guard.

Available Accessories:

One of the stand out features is the EXPAND-IT capability from Ryobi. The tool can be broken down at the midpoint of the shaft to allow the changing of implements. The trimmer head can be changed out for a variety of attachments;

• Landscaping Edger
• 10” Pole Saw
• Soil Cultivator
• Fixed Hedge Trimmer
• 15” Articulating Hedge Trimmer
• Jet Fan Blower
• Snow Thrower
• Sweeper

The 40V AC Trimmer uses a spring loaded detent ball to lock the shaft of each attachment in place. A plastic collar mechanism with hand crank to applies tension down on the shaft. This locks the attachment down without any play. I was skeptical of the locking mechanism at first, but it has held up well for me during use.

Pricing and Availability:

The Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer is currently available through Home Depot and Amazon. Pricing online is 159.00 for the kit with charger and 4.0Ah battery at the Home Depot website. Overall this is an outstanding value for an out of the box tool that is good to go for any homeowner.

Ryobi Ryobi 40V Expand-It Attachment Capable String Trimmer

Cutting through tall grass with the 40V AC trimmer.

Who Is This Tool For?

The Ryobi 40V EXPAND-IT String Trimmer is a great option for a homeowner looking for the power of a corded tool with the convenience of a cordless tool. It is not a brush cutter and it is not meant for all day commercial use. The trimmer would be right at home for trimming around patios, trees, or hard to reach spots, but lacks the grunt of a true pro grade trimmer.

The tool world is evolving into cordless everything and the outdoor power equipment world is no exception. Let’s face it, after a long and aggravating day the last thing you want to worry about is if your mixed gas is still good or if your trimmer will spark.

The Ryobi 40V ATTACMENT-CAPABLE String Trimmer is a convenient tool that is well balanced and surprisingly powerful with an easy to load reel head. While I think the ATTACHMENT-CAPABLE locking mechanism has room for improvement, this tool is still a great option for making a homeowner’s yard work easier.

Cutting through tall grass with the 40V AC trimmer. The traditional bump feed style head. To load new line, turn the green dial to the load position and line up the arrows. Feed through a length of 0.080″ line up to 16′ long and pull till even on each side. Use the provided green plastic crank to wind the spool head. I wrote the gauge of the line on the side of the tool so I don’t forget. Crank until the head is fully wound. This process can be done in about a minute once you get the hang of it.

Wes Bartosik

Wes Bartosik is a Connecticut native with strong family ties to the construction world. Wes’ father and grandfather both were builders and developers and taught Wes the values of doing things right from an early age and getting hands on experience with every facet of the construction industry. Wes apprenticed with a carpenter throughout high school and would later attend Central Connecticut State University earning a bachelor’s degree in construction management all while working for a large excavation contractor throughout. Wes would go on to work for a local heavy-highway construction company and gain further experience with all the skilled trades associated with large civil engineering and utility projects. Though working as a manager now, Wes’ true passion is working in the field alongside the tradesman and laborers on site. Wes has been involved in community based service projects throughout his life as well as emergency services. In his spare time he takes on serious DIY projects for himself, friends and family. He is a firm believer that with a quality tool in your hands and some grit, you can accomplish anything.