How to Choose a Strimmer
Choosing the right strimmer (also called a weed whacker or trimmer) depends on your garden size, terrain, and whether you prefer the freedom of battery power or the relentless grunt of petrol. This guide breaks down the key specs, popular brands, and common pitfalls so you can buy with confidence.
Quick answer
For most medium gardens, the Stihl FSA 60 R battery strimmer offers the best balance of power, runtime, and low maintenance. If you have a large, overgrown plot, the petrol-powered Makita EM2651LH delivers the raw cutting force you need. For budget-conscious buyers, the Bosch EasyGrassCut 18V-26 is a solid, lightweight starter.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Stihl FSA 60 R
Reliable battery strimmer with excellent build quality and balanced ergonomics.
| Product | Best For | Power Type | Cut Width | Weight | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stihl FSA 60 R | Best Overall | Battery 36V | 27 cm | 2.9 kg | 4.7/5 |
| Makita EM2651LH | Heavy-Duty Petrol | Petrol 25cc | 43 cm | 5.8 kg | 4.6/5 |
| Bosch EasyGrassCut 18V-26 | Best Budget | Battery 18V | 26 cm | 2.4 kg | 4.4/5 |
| Ryobi RLT36X60S | Large Battery Garden | Battery 36V | 38 cm | 4.1 kg | 4.5/5 |
| DeWalt DCST972X1 | Brushless Power | Battery 54V | 40 cm | 4.5 kg | 4.6/5 |
Stihl FSA 60 R
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality from Stihl
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Automatic line feed system works reliably
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not suitable for very thick brush
The Stihl FSA 60 R is the benchmark for battery-powered strimmers. Owner reviews consistently praise its robust construction and the smooth, automatic line feed that reduces downtime. The 27 cm cut width is ideal for medium lawns and edging along paths and flower beds.
It runs on Stihl's AK series batteries, which are shared across their garden tool range. While the initial cost is higher than some rivals, the reliability and brand support make it a long-term investment. Aggregated ratings from retailers show a 4.7 out of 5 average across over 2,000 reviews.
Makita EM2651LH
Best Heavy-Duty PetrolPros
- Powerful 25cc engine for thick growth
- Wide 43 cm cutting swath
- Easy-start technology reduces pull effort
Cons
- Heavier than battery models
- Requires regular engine maintenance
The Makita EM2651LH is the go-to choice for large gardens and tough weeds. Its 25cc two-stroke engine provides consistent torque to cut through brambles and thick grass without stalling. The bump-feed head is simple to reload and durable.
Owner feedback highlights the reliable starting mechanism and the comfortable harness that distributes the weight. It is louder and heavier than battery alternatives, but for raw cutting power on acre-sized plots, it remains a top performer among petrol strimmers.
Bosch EasyGrassCut 18V-26
Best BudgetPros
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Low price point for entry-level buyers
- Part of Bosch 18V PowerForAll system
Cons
- Limited runtime on standard battery
- Not powerful enough for thick weeds
The Bosch EasyGrassCut 18V-26 is the ideal strimmer for small gardens and light trimming tasks. It weighs just 2.4 kg, making it easy to use for extended periods without fatigue. The semi-auto line feed advances the string when you tap the head on the ground.
It uses the common Bosch 18V battery platform, so if you already own other Bosch garden tools, you can share batteries. Owner reviews note it is perfect for tidying edges after mowing but struggles with dense, wet grass. It is a great value starter tool.
Ryobi RLT36X60S
Best Large Battery GardenPros
- Large 38 cm cutting width covers ground fast
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Comfortable harness included
Cons
- Heavier than smaller 18V models
- Battery not included in all kits
The Ryobi RLT36X60S is designed for larger gardens where you want battery convenience without sacrificing performance. Its brushless motor delivers more torque and longer runtime than brushed alternatives. The 38 cm cut width means fewer passes along fence lines.
Owner reviews appreciate the adjustable handle and the included shoulder harness, which makes the 4.1 kg weight manageable. It is part of Ryobi's 36V ONE+ system, so batteries are interchangeable with other tools. It handles thick grass well but may bog down in very heavy brush.
DeWalt DCST972X1
Best Brushless PowerPros
- High-voltage 54V system for strong performance
- Brushless motor with variable speed trigger
- Dual line auto-feed head
Cons
- Heavy and expensive
- Battery and charger add to cost
The DeWalt DCST972X1 is a high-performance battery strimmer that rivals some petrol models. Its 54V brushless motor provides ample power for thick grass and light brush, and the variable speed trigger gives you precise control. The 40 cm cutting swath is among the widest for battery units.
Owner reviews highlight the robust build and the effective auto-feed system. It is heavier than many battery strimmers, but the power output justifies the weight for demanding users. It is best suited for those already invested in the DeWalt FlexVolt battery ecosystem.
What to check before buying a strimmer
Power source. Battery strimmers are quiet, light, and low-maintenance. Petrol strimmers offer unlimited runtime and more torque for thick growth but require mixing fuel and regular engine care. Corded electric strimmers are cheap and powerful but limit your range.
Cutting width. A wider cutting swath (30 cm+) covers ground faster, which is useful for large gardens. Narrower widths (under 28 cm) are better for precision edging and smaller spaces.
Line feed system. Automatic or bump-feed systems save you from manually advancing the line. Bump-feed requires tapping the head on the ground; auto-feed advances the line automatically. Both are reliable, but auto-feed is more convenient.
Weight and balance. Heavier strimmers (over 4 kg) should have a harness to distribute the load. Lighter models (under 3 kg) are easier to use for short sessions but may lack power for tough jobs.
Battery ecosystem. If you already own tools from a brand like Bosch, Ryobi, or DeWalt, choose a strimmer that shares the same battery platform. This saves money and reduces clutter.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing a strimmer
Buying too much power for a small garden. A heavy petrol strimmer is overkill for a postage-stamp lawn and will be a chore to maneuver. Match the tool to your garden size.
Ignoring battery compatibility. Some strimmers are sold as "body only" without a battery or charger. Check the product listing carefully to avoid unexpected extra costs.
Overlooking the line type. Thicker line (2.4 mm+) is needed for tough weeds. Thinner line (1.6 mm) is fine for grass. Make sure the strimmer can accept the line diameter you need.
Forgetting about storage. Petrol strimmers need space for fuel and oil, and they can leak if stored on their side. Battery models are cleaner and easier to store.
FAQs
What is the difference between a strimmer and a brush cutter?
A strimmer uses a flexible nylon line for grass and light weeds, while a brush cutter uses a metal blade for thick brush and woody growth. Brush cutters are heavier and more powerful.
How long does a battery strimmer last on a single charge?
Runtime varies by battery capacity and load, but most 36V strimmers run for 20 to 40 minutes of continuous use. Larger 54V models can last up to 60 minutes.
Can I use a strimmer on wet grass?
It is not recommended because wet grass clumps around the cutting head and can clog the line feed. It also puts more strain on the motor.
Do I need a harness for a strimmer?
If the strimmer weighs over 4 kg, a harness is strongly advised to reduce fatigue. Many heavier models include one in the box.
What type of line should I use?
For standard grass, 1.6 mm to 2.0 mm round line works well. For thicker weeds, use 2.4 mm twisted or star-shaped line for better cutting action.
Are petrol strimmers being phased out?
Battery technology is improving rapidly, but petrol strimmers are still widely available and preferred for heavy-duty use. They are not being phased out yet.
How do I maintain a battery strimmer?
Keep the air vents clean, store batteries in a cool dry place, and periodically check the cutting head for worn line or debris. No engine maintenance is needed.
What is the best brand for strimmers?
Stihl, Makita, and DeWalt are consistently rated highest for build quality and reliability. Bosch and Ryobi offer great value for budget buyers.
Can I use a strimmer to edge my lawn?
Yes, most strimmers can be tilted to a 90-degree angle for edging along paths and driveways. Some models have a dedicated edging function.
Is a brushless motor better in a strimmer?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, produce more torque, and last longer than brushed motors. They are worth the extra cost for frequent use.
Our verdict
For most homeowners, the Stihl FSA 60 R is the best overall strimmer, offering a perfect blend of power, weight, and reliability. If you are on a tight budget, the Bosch EasyGrassCut 18V-26 is a capable and affordable entry-level choice. For heavy-duty work, the Makita EM2651LH petrol model remains the king of raw cutting force.