Electric string trimmers are suitable for additional trimming in places where a normal lawn mower simply can’t reach (under trees, bushes, fences, or around the curb). Compared to petrol models, they are quieter, lighter and cheaper. On the downside, they are less powerful and your range of movement is limited by the power cord. Electric string trimmers are better suited for occasional and shorter work. For regular mowing, choose either one of the petrol models or a more powerful brushcutter (for mowing tall grass or woody undergrowth).
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Key parameters when choosing an electric string trimmer
Power consumption and cutting swath
- Under 300 W - suitable for trimming ornamental lawns.
- 300-700 W - for trimming short grass.
- Over 700 W - copes well with tall grass and thicker herbs.
Cutting swath indicates how large is the area (strip) the grass trimmer mows. Usually goes hand in hand with performance. The more powerful the trimmer, the larger its cutting swath. Normally ranges between 20 and 45 cm.
Mowing system type
Depending on the model, a trimmer can have one or two lines coming out of the spool (referred to as “single line” and “dual line” trimmers). Dual line trimmers cut at each half-rotation of the trimmer head, which makes them faster and often more expensive. Conversely, single line trimmers cut once per every rotation. They are not as fast, but tend to be cheaper.
String feed
- Automatic - the string unspools automatically. You don’t need to regulate its length.
- Bump feed - the mechanism sends some line when you press the head of your trimmer against a flat surface.
Useful features
- Telescopic shaft- allows you to adjust the length of a string trimmer to match your height.
- Wheels - make working with a string trimmer considerably easier.
- Adjustable head - rotating the head vertically enables you to trim lawn edges more accurately.
