String Trimmers Buying Guide

Published March 26, 2024
String trimmers, otherwise known as weed whackers, help you put the finishing touches on your lawn. The best string trimmers can tackle hard-to-reach areas where lawn mowers can’t navigate, such as around trees, fence posts, mailboxes, shrubs, walkways and more.
This guide highlights the different types of string trimmers and includes information on shaft styles, trimmer lines, attachments and safety considerations.
Safety Tip: When using a string trimmer, use personal protective equipment. Wear safety goggles to shield your eyes from debris and ear plugs or headphones to protect your hearing.
Table of Contents
Things to Consider
Types of String Trimmer Power Options
Best String Trimmer Styles
Trimmer Lines
Best String Trimmer Features
Best String Trimmer Attachments
Things to Consider

When choosing the best string trimmers for your lawn, there are a few things to consider.
Budget: Determine your budget and prioritize features based on your lawn size and trimming needs. Small-to-medium-sized lawns work best with electric or cordless trimmers since they are lightweight and easier to maneuver. Large-sized lawns do well with gas-powered trimmers that offer more power and extended runtimes.
Maintenance: The best weed whacker will provide ease of maintenance and have the availability of replacement parts.
Noise and emissions: Evaluate the noise levels and emissions of gas-powered trimmers, especially if you have noise restrictions or environmental concerns.
Obstacles: Think about what obstacles may present themselves while you are trimming your yard. Additions such as garden beds, trees and swing sets can influence what type of lawn trimmer will work best in your yard.
Types of String Trimmer Power Options

Are you considering cordless or gas-powered four cycle engines? Do you have a large or small lawn? These are some of the questions you should ask when picking the best weed whacker for your yard. Here are some main differences between different types of string trimmers.
Gas string trimmers:
- Cordless and powerful.
- Feature two-cycle engines.
- Require a mix of gas and oil.
- Considered best for grass trimming.
- Ideal for large lawns.
Gas-powered four-cycle engines:
- Run quieter and smoother.
- Easier to start.
- Do not require oil and gas premixing.
- Heavier and may affects maneuverability for some users.
Electric string trimmers:
- Available as corded or cordless options.
- Activated via a switch, no rip cord pulling.
- Lightweight and less powerful than gas trimmers.
- Best for weed trimming in smaller yards.
Battery-powered cordless string trimmers:
- Ideal for small to mid-sized yards.
- Low-maintenance option.
- More maneuverable than corded trimmers.
- Eliminates the need for extension cords.
Best String Trimmer Styles

When deciding the best string trimmers for your needs, here are a few design elements to consider.
- Provides better weight balance and longer drive shaft life.
- Suitable for a wide variety of tasks.
- Ideal for big yards due to durability.
- Offers safer operation by keeping the head farther away during use.
- Reduces the likelihood of being hit by airborne debris.
- Uses a flexible-cable drive shaft for power transmission.
- Requires a lower initial investment.
- Great for trimming around flower beds and squared-off areas.
- Easier to maneuver and often lighter for comfortable use.
- Ideal for tasks requiring maneuverability, such as trimming around obstacles.
Tip: Longer shafts are ideal for trimming under fences, hedges and bushes.
Trimmer Lines

Using the right string trimmer line will go a long way toward making sure your trimmer works efficiently.
Standard-grade line is economical and best for low intensity trimming in smaller yards. Commercial-grade line is ideal for use on a heavy-duty gas trimmer and in larger yards where there are heavier patches of grass and troublesome weeds.
Tip: When pruning hedges, let the tip of the line do the cutting to avoid premature wear. Always keep an extra spool of line handy so you never run out.
Best String Trimmer Features

Here are some helpful features to consider when choosing the best weed whacker.
Lightweight:
- Designed for easy handling and reduced fatigue during use.
- Enables maneuverability in tight spaces and around obstacles.
- Ideal for users of all ages and physical strengths.
Easy Line Feeding:
- Simplifies the process of replacing trimmer line for uninterrupted operation.
- Reduces downtime and frustration during maintenance tasks.
- Ensures efficient cutting without interruptions.
Handle:
- Ergonomically designed for comfort during extended use.
- Provides a secure grip for precise control and maneuverability.
- Minimizes hand fatigue and strain for improved user experience.
Adjustable Height:
- Allows customization to suit the user's height and preferences.
- Enhances comfort and ergonomics for individuals of different statures.
- Enables precise trimming at the desired height for optimal results.
Safety Features:
- Equipped with a protective guard to shield the user from debris and rotating parts.
- Reduces the risk of injury from flying debris or accidental contact with the cutting line.
- Promotes safe operation by minimizing exposure to potential hazards.
Best String Trimmer Attachments

There are plenty of attachments that will help take your lawn care to a new level.
- Designed for trimming high branches and limbs.
- Equipped with a long, extendable pole for reaching elevated areas.
- Features a sharp saw blade for efficient cutting.
- Specifically crafted for trimming and shaping hedges and shrubs.
- Offers precision cutting for neat and tidy landscaping.
- Provides various blade lengths and angles for versatile trimming.
Leaf Blower:
- Designed to blow leaves, debris and grass clippings from lawns and surfaces.
- Offers adjustable airspeed settings for tailored performance.
- Ideal for clearing large areas quickly and efficiently.
- Designed for sweeping and cleaning driveways, sidewalks and other hard surfaces.
- Equipped with rotating brushes or paddles for effective debris removal.
- Offers adjustable height settings for versatile cleaning tasks.
- Essential for recharging the batteries of cordless lawn trimmers and tools.
- Provides a convenient and reliable power source for extended use.
- Features indicator lights or displays for monitoring charging progress.
String Trimmer Safety and Operation Tips

- Always use the trimmer manufacturer's recommended line size, since a heavier line will put extra stress on the motor.
- Some string trimmer models have a tap line feature. A button on the bottom of the head lets out extra line when you tap it on the ground.
- More advanced trimmer models have automatic line-advanced systems that sense when the line is worn and will automatically release more.
- Be careful when trimming around trees. Flying tree bark can be dangerous, and trimmers can damage young saplings.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots to protect your feet.
- If vibrations bother you or if your hands tend to blister, wear heavy-duty gloves while operating your trimmer.
Finding the best string trimmers for your needs will make many of your lawn chores easier and more effiicent. If you need more line or need to buy a new string trimmer, The Home Depot delivers online orders when and where you need them.
If you only need a string trimmer for a one-time landscaping project or want to try different models before you buy, consider The Home Depot's string trimmer rental. Use the string trimmer once, then bring it back, no maintenance required.