Flymo Strimmer Review
Flymo is a household name in lawn care, known for their hover mowers, but their range of strimmers (line trimmers) offers a mix of electric, battery, and petrol models for gardens of all sizes. This review breaks down the best Flymo strimmers based on specs, owner feedback, and overall value.
Quick answer
Flymo strimmers are best for small to medium gardens where ease of use and lightweight design matter most. The Flymo Contour XT is the top pick for its easy-glide system and reliability, while the Flymo Microtrim is the best budget cordless option for light trimming.
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Research updated June 2026.
Flymo Contour XT
The best all-round Flymo strimmer for most gardens.
| Product | Best for | Power Type | Cutting Width | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flymo Contour XT | Overall best | 40V Cordless | 30 cm | 4.5/5 |
| Flymo Microtrim | Budget cordless | 20V Cordless | 23 cm | 4.2/5 |
| Flymo UltraGlide | Easy edge trimming | 240V Corded | 28 cm | 4.0/5 |
| Flymo 1200R | Powerful corded | 240V Corded | 30 cm | 4.3/5 |
| Flymo Petrol 28 | Large gardens | Petrol 2-stroke | 42 cm | 3.8/5 |
Flymo Contour XT
Best OverallPros
- Easy-glide system for smooth edges
- Good battery runtime for medium gardens
- Lightweight and well balanced
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not suitable for very thick weeds
The Flymo Contour XT is the standout model in the Flymo strimmer lineup. It uses a 40V lithium-ion battery that provides enough power for most medium-sized gardens. Owners report that the bump-feed line system works reliably, and the adjustable handle makes it comfortable to use for longer sessions.
The cutting width of 30 cm is a good balance between coverage and maneuverability. The Contour XT also features an easy-glide system that lets you rotate the head for edging without bending. This is a major plus for users who want clean borders along paths and flower beds.
Flymo Microtrim
Best Budget CordlessPros
- Very lightweight and easy to handle
- Good for small gardens and patios
- Battery included in some kits
Cons
- Manual line feed can be fiddly
- Not powerful enough for thick grass
The Flymo Microtrim is the entry-level cordless strimmer from Flymo. It is designed for light trimming around borders, edges, and under garden furniture. Its 20V battery provides enough power for a small lawn, and the 23 cm cutting width is adequate for precise work.
Owner reviews highlight how easy it is to use, especially for those who find heavier strimmers tiring. The main downside is the manual line feed system, which requires you to stop and adjust the line by hand. This is a minor inconvenience for the price point.
Flymo UltraGlide
Best for Edge TrimmingPros
- Excellent for edging along paths
- No battery runtime limits
- Lightweight for a corded model
Cons
- Cord can be restrictive
- Not as powerful as some corded rivals
The Flymo UltraGlide is a corded electric strimmer that excels at edging. Its head rotates easily to switch from trimming to edging, and the bump-feed line system is convenient. The 28 cm cutting width is good for neat borders.
Owners appreciate the consistent power from the mains connection, meaning no battery fade mid-job. However, the cord can be a nuisance in larger gardens, and the motor is not the most powerful for tackling very overgrown areas. It is best for regular maintenance.
Flymo 1200R
Best Powerful CordedPros
- 1200W motor for tough grass
- 30 cm cutting width covers ground fast
- Durable build quality
Cons
- Heavier than other Flymo models
- Corded only, limits reach
The Flymo 1200R is the most powerful corded strimmer in the Flymo range. Its 1200W motor can handle thicker grass and weeds that would stall smaller models. The 30 cm cutting width is standard for this class, and the bump-feed line system works well.
Owner feedback notes that it is a robust machine that feels solid in use. The main trade-off is the weight, which is heavier than cordless options, and the restriction of a power cord. It is a good choice for medium gardens where you want consistent power without battery worries.
Flymo Petrol 28
Best for Large GardensPros
- Powerful for thick weeds and brambles
- No cords or batteries to worry about
- Wide cutting width for large areas
Cons
- Heavy and noisy
- Requires fuel mixing and maintenance
The Flymo Petrol 28 is the only petrol strimmer in the Flymo range. It uses a 2-stroke engine that delivers substantial power for tackling overgrown areas, brambles, and tough weeds. The 42 cm cutting width is the largest in the lineup, making it efficient for large gardens.
Owner reviews note that it is very effective but comes with the typical downsides of petrol tools: noise, vibration, weight, and the need for fuel mixing and regular maintenance. It is not for casual users but is a capable machine for heavy-duty work.
What to check before buying a Flymo strimmer
Choosing the right Flymo strimmer depends on your garden size and how you prefer to work. Here are the key factors to consider.
Power source: Cordless models offer freedom of movement but have limited runtime. Corded models provide unlimited power but require an extension lead. Petrol models offer the most power but need more maintenance.
Cutting width: A wider cutting width covers more ground quickly but can be less precise. For small gardens, 23-28 cm is fine. For larger areas, look for 30 cm or more.
Line feed system: Bump-feed systems are the most convenient, allowing you to tap the head to release more line. Manual feed systems are cheaper but require stopping to adjust the line.
Weight and balance: A lighter strimmer is easier to use for longer periods. The Microtrim is the lightest at 2.1 kg, while the Petrol 28 is the heaviest at 5.5 kg.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a Flymo strimmer
Many buyers make simple errors that lead to disappointment. Avoid these common mistakes.
Buying a model that is too weak: If you have thick grass or weeds, a low-power model like the Microtrim will struggle. Choose the 1200R or Petrol 28 for tougher jobs.
Ignoring battery compatibility: If you buy a cordless Flymo, check if the battery is included. Some models sell the tool only, and you may need to buy the battery and charger separately.
Overlooking the cord: Corded models like the UltraGlide and 1200R are powerful but limited by the length of your extension lead. Make sure you have a suitable outdoor-rated cable.
Forgetting about maintenance: Petrol strimmers require fuel mixing, air filter cleaning, and spark plug checks. If you want a low-maintenance tool, stick with electric or cordless.
How do Flymo strimmers compare to other brands?
Flymo strimmers are generally more affordable than premium brands like Stihl or Husqvarna, but they also use less powerful motors and lighter materials. For small to medium gardens, Flymo offers good value. For heavy-duty professional use, brands like Stihl or Makita are better choices. Flymo's battery system is not as extensive as Bosch or Ryobi, but it is adequate for basic garden tasks.
Who should buy a Flymo strimmer?
Flymo strimmers are ideal for homeowners with small to medium gardens who want a reliable, easy-to-use tool for regular lawn maintenance. They are not designed for professional landscapers or for tackling very overgrown land. The Contour XT is the best all-rounder, while the Microtrim suits those on a tight budget. The Petrol 28 is for users who need raw power but are willing to accept the extra weight and maintenance.
FAQs
Are Flymo strimmers any good?
Yes, Flymo strimmers are good for small to medium gardens. They are reliable, lightweight, and offer good value for money compared to premium brands.
Which Flymo strimmer is best?
The Flymo Contour XT is the best overall model for most users. It offers a good balance of power, runtime, and ease of use.
Do Flymo strimmers come with batteries?
Some models come with a battery and charger, but many are sold as tool only. Always check the product description before buying.
How long does a Flymo strimmer battery last?
Battery runtime varies by model and usage. The 40V battery on the Contour XT typically lasts 20-30 minutes under normal trimming conditions.
Can you use a Flymo strimmer for edging?
Yes, many Flymo strimmers have a rotating head that allows you to switch from trimming to edging easily. The UltraGlide is particularly good for this.
Are Flymo strimmers easy to maintain?
Electric and cordless Flymo strimmers are low maintenance. Petrol models require more care, including fuel mixing and regular cleaning.
What is the cutting width of Flymo strimmers?
Cutting widths range from 23 cm on the Microtrim to 42 cm on the Petrol 28. Most models are between 28 cm and 30 cm.
Can Flymo strimmers cut thick weeds?
Only the more powerful models like the 1200R and Petrol 28 can handle thick weeds. Smaller models are best for grass and light vegetation.
Are Flymo strimmers noisy?
Electric and cordless models are relatively quiet. Petrol models are significantly louder and may require hearing protection.
Where are Flymo strimmers made?
Flymo is a British brand, but most of their strimmers are manufactured in China. Quality control is generally good for the price point.
Our verdict
Flymo strimmers offer solid performance for the price, especially for small to medium gardens. The Flymo Contour XT is our top pick for its balance of cordless convenience, power, and ease of use. For budget buyers, the Flymo Microtrim is a capable lightweight option. If you need raw power for tough weeds, the Flymo 1200R or Petrol 28 are better choices. Overall, Flymo is a reliable brand for home gardeners who want a straightforward, no-fuss strimmer.