Guide to Finding the Best Battery Weed Eater

Whether you call it a weed whacker, a weed trimmer or a string trimmer, you’re in the market for one, and knowing what you're looking for will make the decision a lot easier. The bottom line is you're wanting to give your yard a more finished look, neater and tidier, and a weedeater is the next step.

With so many brands to choose from it's a bit daunting to figure out where to start. So in this guide, we put together a few things to look for and a few choices to get you started on your way to finding the best battery weed eater for you and your needs. 

Why Choose a Battery-Powered String Trimmer

The first thing to ask yourself is why a battery-powered weed eater and not a gas or electric one. There are several reasons to choose a battery-powered trimmer for your lawn care needs. Here are some key advantages: 

Cordless Convenience

Battery-powered string trimmers offer the convenience of cordless operation, allowing you to move freely without being restricted by a power cord. This freedom of movement makes it easier to navigate around obstacles, reach tight corners, and trim areas that are farther away from electrical outlets.

Quieter Operation

Compared to gas-powered trimmers, battery-powered models produce significantly less noise during operation. This is beneficial not only for your own comfort but also for your neighbors and the overall noise pollution in your community. You can enjoy a quieter trimming experience without disturbing the peace.

Environmentally Friendly

Battery-powered trimmers are more environmentally friendly than their gas-powered counterparts. They don't produce emissions or release harmful fumes, making them a cleaner and greener choice. Additionally, as battery technology advances, many manufacturers are transitioning to lithium-ion batteries, which have a lower environmental impact compared to older battery technologies.

Easy Start and Low Maintenance

Battery-powered trimmers eliminate the need for manual pulling of a starter cord, which can be challenging and frustrating with gas-powered trimmers. They typically have a push-button start or a simple trigger mechanism, allowing for a quick and hassle-free startup. Battery-powered trimmers also require less maintenance, as there is no need for fuel mixing, spark plug changes, or air filter cleanings.

Lightweight and Maneuverable

Battery-powered string trimmers are generally lighter in weight compared to gas-powered models, which can be more cumbersome to handle. The lightweight design of battery-powered trimmers reduces fatigue during use, making them easier to maneuver around your yard for extended periods.

Cost Savings

While the initial cost of a battery-powered trimmer may be higher compared to a gas-powered trimmer, there are potential long-term cost savings. Battery-powered trimmers eliminate the need for purchasing fuel, oil, and spark plugs, reducing ongoing expenses. Additionally, with advancements in battery technology, the runtime and power of battery-powered trimmers have improved significantly, making them a viable alternative to gas-powered models.

What to Look for in a Battery-Powered Weed Eater

When looking for a battery-operated weed eater, it's crucial to consider several key factors. First, assess the shape and length of the shaft, choosing between a straight shaft for extended reach or a curved shaft for improved maneuverability.

Next, evaluate the line feed mechanism, deciding between manual bump feed or automatic feed for convenience and control. Finally, pay attention to battery life and power, ensuring the trimmer has a battery with sufficient runtime and a power output suitable for efficient cutting. By considering these factors, you can find a battery-operated weed eater that meets your trimming needs with ease and effectiveness.

RPM-Revolutions Per Minute

RPM is an important factor to consider when evaluating cordless string trimmers. RPM refers to the speed at which the cutting head rotates, determining how quickly and effectively the trimmer can cut through grass and weeds.

A higher RPM generally indicates a faster rotation speed, which can result in more efficient and cleaner cutting performance. A weed eater with a higher RPM can tackle thicker vegetation and dense patches of grass more effectively. It allows for smoother and faster trimming, reducing the time and effort required to complete your yard maintenance tasks.

It's important to note that RPM is not the sole determining factor for cutting efficiency. The design and quality of the cutting head, the line thickness, and the power output of the trimmer also play significant roles in the overall performance.

When considering RPM, it's essential to strike a balance between power and battery life. Higher RPM often requires more power consumption, which can affect the battery runtime. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a weed eater that offers a balance between RPM and battery efficiency, ensuring you have enough power to effectively trim your lawn without sacrificing runtime. 

Curved or Straight Shaft

When it comes to choosing a weed eater, one of the key considerations is the type of shaft it has. The shaft design plays a crucial role in the overall performance and usability of the tool.

Two common types of shafts found in weed eaters are curved shafts and straight shafts. Each type offers distinct advantages and is suited to different trimming needs. 

Straight Shaft

A straight shaft weed eater, as the name suggests, has a straight, elongated shaft that extends from the cutting head to the handle. This design offers a longer reach, making it suitable for taller individuals or for reaching farther areas such as under bushes or fences.

Straight shaft trimmers are known for their extended reach and improved cutting power, making them a preferred choice for larger yards or more demanding trimming tasks. They provide better leverage, allowing for more precise cutting and increased efficiency, especially when dealing with dense vegetation or tougher grasses. 

Curved Shaft

A curved shaft weed eater features a curved or bent shaft that connects the cutting head to the handle. This design is typically more compact and lightweight, making it easier to handle, especially for users with shorter stature or less upper body strength.

Curved shaft trimmers are known for their maneuverability and are ideal for trimming small to medium-sized yards or areas with tight spaces. They provide good control and are generally more comfortable for users who prefer a shorter reach. 

Types of Line Feed

When it comes to weed eaters, the line feed mechanism is a critical feature that directly impacts the efficiency and convenience of your trimming experience. There are different types of line feed systems available, each offering its own advantages and considerations.

 By understanding the differences between these line feed mechanisms, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and ensures smooth and uninterrupted cutting as you tackle your yard maintenance tasks. 

●       Manual Line Feed: With the manual line feed system, the operator needs to stop the weed eater, power it off, and manually feed a new length of line by hand. This method requires more effort and interruption in the trimming process but provides direct control over the line length.

●       Bump Line Feed: In the bump line feed system, the operator can bump the trimmer head on the ground during operation. A spring-loaded button or mechanism inside the trimmer head will release a new length of line. This method allows for quick line advancement without the need to power off the trimmer, offering more convenience and efficiency during trimming sessions.

●       Automatic Line Feed: With automatic line feed, the trimmer is equipped with a mechanism that senses when the line has worn down or snapped. It then automatically feeds out a new length of line during operation, without the need for manual intervention. This method provides uninterrupted trimming as the line is automatically advanced, ensuring a continuous cutting experience.

 

Our Top Seven Battery Powered Weed Eater Choices 

Best Overall – EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch Kit Alu Foldable Shaft String Trimmer

Most Power – Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless String Trimmer

Best Lightweight – Worx WG154 20V PowerShare 10″ – 12″ Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

Budget Friendly – Worx-15-in-5-5-Amp-Corded-Electric-String-Trimmer-Edger-with-Telescopic-Straight-Shaft-and Pivoting Head 

Best for Large Jobs – DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX* Brushless String Trimmer

Best for Small Yards – BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer and Edger

Pros Choice – 82V Gen II 2.0KW Bike Handle String Trimmer 

Best Overall – EGO Power+ Foldable Shaft String Trimmer

Best Price on EGO Power+ Foldable Shaft String Trimmer HERE

In our best overall category, the Ego Power+ trimmer came in with all the fanfare. From its simple line-loading Powerload technology to its adjustable aluminum shaft, and its 15-inch cutting swath, it's driven by a brushless motor and powerful 56 Volt battery.  This weed whacker has what you are looking for.

Model	Ego Power+
Weight	10.27 lbs
Cutting Width	15 inches
Voltage	56 Volts
RPM	5800
Line Feed Type	Powerload Technology®
Price	$199

Most Power – Makita 36V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless String Trimmer

Best Price on Makita 36V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless String Trimmer HERE

The most powerful category is filled by the Makita 36V. This best battery weedeater boasts a variable 3-speed Automatic Torque drive technology that allows you to decide whether you want power or extended runtime. This weed-whacker kit could have easily fit into the Pros choice category just based on its durability and power options alone. It comes with four batteries and a charger. 

Model #

Weight

Cutting Width

Voltage

RPM

Line Feed Type

Price

Best Lightweight – Worx PowerShare Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

Best Price on Worx PowerShare Cordless String Trimmer & Edger HERE

As much as you want to tidy up your yard, the thought of lugging around a beast of a weed eater is not on the day's to-do list. The lighter the better but you still want a weedeater that can do the job. Worx has you covered. And as a bonus, you might be surprised at the price and as a double bonus, this weed eater also has edger capabilities.

Model	Worx WG154 20V PowerShare
Weight	6 lbs
Cutting Width	10 inches
Voltage	20 Volt
Line Feed Type	Single-Exit-Automatic

Best Budget-Friendly – Worx PowerShare 12” Cordless String Trimmer

Best Price on Worx PowerShare 12” Cordless String Trimmer HERE

These days we’re all looking for ways to save a dollar or two and budget-friendly is often a necessity. Getting the max benefits, reliability, durability, and performance while not busting the bank is the name of the game here. 

Model	Worx WG162 Power Share
Weight	5.5 lbs
Cutting Width	12 inches
Voltage	20 Volt
Line Feed Type	Single-Exit-Automatic
Price	$99.27

Best for Large Jobs – DeWalt FlexVolt Brushless, 2-Speed String Trimmer

Best Price on DeWalt FlexVolt Brushless, 2-Speed String Trimmer HERE

When choosing a battery-powered weed eater for large jobs, it is important to consider the size of the task at hand. Larger yards will take longer to work on so over time this will add up and durability will become an important part of the equation of which is the best weed eater for you.

When it comes to tools that can get the job done, Dewalt is a name brand that can be relied on. This weed eater is designed to muscle its way through tough overgrowth and to withstand heavy-duty usage. 

Model	DeWalt FlexVolt 60V Max
Weight	12 lbs
Cutting Width	15-inch
Voltage	60 Volts
Line Feed Type	Bump feed
Price	$199.00

Best for Small Yards – Black & Decker 20V Max Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

Best Price on Black & Decker 20V Max Cordless String Trimmer & Edger HERE

 Having the right size equipment for the job you're doing is a perfect example of why this category is necessary. When your yard is small you need a weed eater that works for you not against you. This weed-whacker has some pretty cool features, like the push button automatic line feed and wheeled edger conversation capabilities.

Black & Decker is a name that most people can recognize, and they are trusted and well-proven to be a reliable brand.

Model	Black-Decker 20 V Max
Weight	5,30 lbs
Cutting Width	12 inches
Voltage	20
RPM	7200 RPMs
Line Feed Type	Easy Feed™/ Push button Auto
Price	$111.14

Pros Choice Best Battery Weedeater – Greenworks 82V Bike Handle String Trimmer

Best Price on Greenworks 82V Bike Handle String Trimmer HERE

Commercial grade battery-powered landscaping equipment is here to stay, and this weed eater is one of the pro’s choices when it comes to battery-powered weed eaters. This battery-powered weed eater is built to outperform its gas-powered predecessors and it accomplishes this with ease.

Model	82V 2.0kW Bike Handle String Trimmer Tool-Only (82TB20)
Weight	Battery/ 4.57 lbs
Cutting Width	18 inches
Voltage	82
RPM	5700
Line Feed Type	Dual Bump Feed
Price	$471.99 Trimmer only

FAQ's

What is the number one rated battery-operated weed eater?

The number one rated battery-operated weed eater is the Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V PowerShare 12″ Cordless String Trimmer & Edger. It has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Amazon and is praised for its power, ease of use, and durability. 

What is a good battery voltage for a weed eater?

The higher the voltage the more power it will have, so that should be a reference to start from. But as a general rule, 20-40 volts for a half-acre or less, and 40- 8 volts up to an acre.  

How long does a battery-powered weed-wacker last?

Depending on factors the time may vary, but on average 25 minutes for a 20-volt battery on a medium-sized yard.