Best Strimmer Under £300
Finding a strimmer that balances power, runtime, and build quality without exceeding £300 is tough. We have analysed specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best models for your garden.
Quick answer
The best strimmer under £300 is the Stihl FSA 45. It offers exceptional build quality, a lightweight design, and reliable performance for medium-sized gardens. For those wanting more power and a brushless motor, the DeWalt DCST972 is the top runner-up.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
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Research updated June 2026.
Stihl FSA 45
Lightweight, reliable, and built to last for medium gardens.
| Product | Best for | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stihl FSA 45 | Best Overall | 36V, 25cm cut | 4.5/5 | Check price |
| DeWalt DCST972 | Best Power | 54V, brushless | 4.4/5 | Check price |
| Makita DUR368A | Best Runtime | 36V, 4.0Ah battery | 4.3/5 | Check price |
| Bosch EasyGrassCut 23 | Best Budget | 18V, 23cm cut | 4.2/5 | Check price |
| Ryobi RLT36C53 | Best Value | 36V, 30cm cut | 4.1/5 | Check price |
Stihl FSA 45
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality from Stihl
- Very lightweight and easy to handle
- Reliable tap-and-go line feed
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Cutting width is smaller than some rivals
The Stihl FSA 45 is a cordless strimmer that prioritises ease of use and durability. It uses a 36V battery system, which provides enough power for trimming grass and light weeds around borders and fences. Owner reviews consistently praise its balance and low vibration levels, making it comfortable for longer sessions.
While the 25 cm cutting width is not the largest, it is ideal for precise work. The tap-and-go line feed is simple and rarely jams. For a medium-sized garden, this model offers the best combination of reliability and performance under £300, especially if you already own Stihl batteries.
DeWalt DCST972
Best PowerPros
- High power for thick grass and weeds
- Brushless motor for longer life
- Large 40 cm cutting width
Cons
- Heavier than most competitors
- Battery and charger not included
The DeWalt DCST972 is a powerful brushless strimmer designed for tougher jobs. Its 54V battery system delivers high torque, allowing it to cut through dense grass and brambles with ease. The 40 cm cutting width means fewer passes, making it efficient for larger gardens.
Owner feedback highlights its robust construction and the effectiveness of the variable speed trigger. However, its weight of 4.5 kg can be tiring over long periods. It is best suited for users who need maximum power and already have DeWalt batteries.
Makita DUR368A
Best RuntimePros
- Long runtime with 4.0 Ah battery
- Good balance and ergonomics
- Easy to use bump feed
Cons
- Not as powerful as DeWalt model
- Plastic guard feels less durable
The Makita DUR368A is a well-rounded strimmer that comes with a 4.0 Ah battery, offering excellent runtime for its class. It is part of Makita's 36V system, which is shared with many other garden tools. The 30 cm cutting head is a good size for medium gardens, and the bump feed works reliably.
Reviews note that it is quieter than some petrol alternatives and has low vibration. While it lacks the raw power of the DeWalt, it provides consistent performance for regular trimming. It is a strong choice for those invested in the Makita ecosystem.
Bosch EasyGrassCut 23
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Extremely lightweight at 1.8 kg
- Automatic line feed is convenient
Cons
- Not suitable for thick weeds
- Small cutting width
The Bosch EasyGrassCut 23 is an entry-level strimmer that is perfect for small gardens and light trimming. It uses an 18V battery system, which is common across many Bosch DIY tools. Weighing only 1.8 kg, it is one of the lightest models available, making it easy to use for extended periods.
Owner reviews highlight its simplicity and value for money. The automatic line feed saves time, but it struggles with thicker vegetation. It is best for maintaining a neat lawn edge rather than heavy-duty clearing.
Ryobi RLT36C53
Best ValuePros
- Good value for the features offered
- Large 30 cm cutting width
- Part of the versatile Ryobi ONE+ system
Cons
- Build quality feels less premium
- Battery life could be better
The Ryobi RLT36C53 is a value-focused strimmer that offers a large 30 cm cutting width at a competitive price. It is powered by Ryobi's 36V system, which is compatible with a wide range of other tools. The bump feed is standard and works well for most trimming tasks.
Owner reviews appreciate the balance of power and price, though some note that the plastic components feel less robust than Stihl or Makita models. It is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a capable strimmer for a medium garden without breaking the bank.
What to check before buying a strimmer under £300
Before purchasing, consider the size of your garden and the type of vegetation you need to cut. For small lawns, a lightweight 18V model like the Bosch is sufficient. For larger gardens with thick weeds, a powerful 36V or 54V brushless model is better.
Check the battery ecosystem. If you already own tools from a brand like DeWalt, Makita, or Ryobi, buying a strimmer from the same system saves money. Also, look at the cutting width: a wider head means fewer passes but can be heavier.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a strimmer
Do not overlook the weight. A heavy strimmer can be tiring to use, especially for long periods. Always check the weight and balance of the model before buying.
Avoid buying a model with a small battery capacity if you have a large garden. A 2.0 Ah battery may run out quickly. Look for at least a 4.0 Ah battery for medium to large gardens.
FAQs
What is the best strimmer under £300?
The Stihl FSA 45 is the best overall strimmer under £300 due to its build quality, lightweight design, and reliable performance.
Is a brushless strimmer better?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, quieter, and last longer than brushed motors, making them a better choice for regular use.
How long does a battery strimmer last?
Runtime varies by battery size and power setting. A 4.0 Ah battery typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes of continuous trimming.
Can I use a strimmer for thick weeds?
Yes, but you need a powerful model like the DeWalt DCST972 with a brushless motor and high voltage battery.
Do I need a battery and charger included?
Many strimmers are sold as bare tools. Check the listing to see if a battery and charger are included or if you need to buy them separately.
What is the difference between bump feed and automatic feed?
Bump feed requires you to tap the head on the ground to release line, while automatic feed releases line automatically as needed.
Is a 36V strimmer powerful enough?
Yes, a 36V strimmer is powerful enough for most medium gardens and can handle thick grass and light weeds.
What cutting width should I choose?
For small gardens, 23-25 cm is fine. For larger areas, a 30-40 cm cutting width reduces trimming time.
Are Stihl strimmers worth the price?
Yes, Stihl strimmers are known for their durability and reliability, making them a good long-term investment.
Can I use a strimmer on wet grass?
It is not recommended as wet grass can clog the head and reduce performance. Always trim when the grass is dry.
Our verdict
The best strimmer under £300 is the Stihl FSA 45 for its outstanding build quality and ease of use. For those needing more power, the DeWalt DCST972 is the best choice. For budget buyers, the Bosch EasyGrassCut 23 offers excellent value.