Best Cordless Weed Eater

A weed eater is called a string trimmer and weed wacker. This tool helps to provide your lawn a polished look. Cordless models remove the need to deal with an extension cord. If you are looking for a cordless weed eater, you must go through this guide.

With the help of weed eaters, you can keep your garden beautiful. Instead of a blade, this tool optimizes a monofilament line. Thus, it helps to cut the grass on steep terrains. Also, you can cut or other kinds of plants along the hedges and sidewalks. People use this tool to trim light hedges as well. Let’s go through the article to know more about best cordless weed eater.

What is a Weed Eater?

A weed eater is a tool using which you can cut grass and other weeds in areas that are difficult to reach or those areas where you are not willing to risk damaging with a lawn mower. These tools are made up of a long shaft. Besides, there is a cutting head at the end. This head can spin a single or dual nylon string. String refers to the blade which slices through grass and weeds.

How does a Weed Eater Work?

This one is a handheld device which people use to cut weeds, grass, and other vegetation. This tool is mainly used in those areas which are hard to reach with a lawnmower. A weed eater includes a small motor which is responsible for driving a rotating head and the head part remains attached to a long shaft.

There is a spinning nylon string in the cutting head. This line is flexible and helps to slice through weeds and grass. Inside the head of the weed eater, you can see the string wound around a spool. The thickness of the line depends on what model you use. Models with thicker lines are more durable and let you cut through denser vegetation. When it comes to lighter trimming around your lawn, you can use thinner lines.

These models can be gas-powered and battery-powered. Both types of weed eaters have their benefits and drawbacks. “Weed eater” is the generic name of these types of tools. However, the brand name varies by manufacturer. These are a few popular brands available on the market:

• DeWalt
• Echo
• Greenworks
• Husqvarna
• Milwaukee
• Ryobi
• Stihl
• Worx
• Kobalt
• Ego
• Craftsman
• Makita

How to Use the Cordless Weed Eater Properly:

It is important to learn how to use weed eaters properly so that you can avoid any kind of accidents. These are some steps you need to follow to learn the process of using weed eaters.

• Study The Manual And Familiarize The Tool:

You should take your time to go through the instruction manual before doing weed trimming. The first thing you should do is to know each part of the weed eater properly. You need to be familiar with the controls and the buttons mainly. Different brands have different triggers and switches. Therefore, you have to ensure that you have located where all things are. You should not start operating the tool according to your earlier experience with other brands. In addition, you should not rely on what you see on the television. It is necessary to check the manual. You have to check each inch of the tool before beginning the cutting to maintain the freshness of your garden.

• Check For Power:

Is your tool you are using powered by gas? Then, you have to double-check to confirm there is gas in the chambers. When you use a battery-powered weed eater, ensure that you are putting in new batteries. Also, you have to keep more batteries with you, which will be beneficial in sudden situations, like when the cutting is not completed, but your battery drains out.

• Map The Ground:

You should map those places where trimming weeds is a must. You can use chalk dust for marking the group where you need to use the weed eater. You have to plan first from where you want to start. And your job is to continue the process until you see the line’s end. Ensure that you remove stones or objects that are capable of damaging the weed eater.

• Keep People And Animals Out:

When you start using the tool, you need to ensure that no other people are on the premises. Also, you should Keep the pets away from the yard. Thus, you can make sure that the tool will not hurt anyone or the pet with stones, flying debris, and other things.

• Wear Protection:

While trimming your yard, you need to put on long-lasting protective gear. You should wear different protection items, for example, eye protection, gloves, closed shoes, long pants, long sleeves, a hat, and a face mask. Sometimes, the tool can even throw debris, fragments, stones, etc. So, you must cover yourself from up to bottom.

• Position The Weed Eater:

After you position the tool, you need to hold this firmly close to the ground. However, ensure that you are not allowing this tool to go beyond 3″ off the surface. In order to handle the trigger, it is required to use one of your hands after starting the machine. You have to keep your other hand on the handle. Now, you should hold the throttle between 30-60 seconds in order to warm up your model. While you need to position the attachment parallel to the earth, your job is to keep the tool at your waist level. While cutting grass and weeds, you need to move its head back-and-forth, and side-to-side. Thus, you will be able to give the garden an even cutting and polished look.

Weed Eater Features:

When it comes to talking about the features of a weed eater, there are several things to cover. We have given here a few of the most advantageous ones:

• Vibration Control:

It helps to reduce arm fatigue, which is crucial in gas-powered models. If you choose straight-shaft models, you can get interchangeable heads available over there. These let you transform the model into a limb trimmer.

• Battery Interoperability:

With the help of this feature, you are capable of powering many tools using the same batteries.

• Easy Blade Replacement:

The more you use your tool, the feature becomes more important day by day. It is possible to go for fixed-length blades. These blades use string’s pre-cut lengths instead of spools.

• Bump Feed Or Bump Head:

With an easy tap on the ground, you will be able to make the string’s spool advanced due to Bump Feed or Bump Head. So, you do not need to draw out the next string length manually.

• Weed Eater Maintenance:

Gas powered ones need more maintenance compared to others. You should plan the maintenance cost annually on different aspects like a tuneup, cleaning, new spark plug, etc. It is possible to DIY for about $20 yearly. Otherwise, you are able to pay $100 at a lawn tool service center.

Difference Between Gas-Powered And Battery-Powered Weed Eaters:

To understand the difference between these two kinds of weed eaters, you need to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of these two.

Pros Of Gas-powered Weed Eaters:

These kinds of weed eaters come with an internal combustion engine where gasoline is used. Gas-powered ones have been around for a long time, even longer than Battery-Powered or electric ones. Let’s see the benefits of Gas-powered Weed Eaters.

• Powerful Performance:

Compared to battery-powered ones, these ones provide more power. That’s why you should use them for heavy-duty tasks. Also these are beneficial in cutting overgrown grass and through thick vegetation. These are equipped with powerful two-stroke engines. In order to offer optimal performance, these engines need both gasoline and oil. Gas strings are lightweight and are perfect for handheld use. Cubic centimeters are used for measuring the engine size.

• Small engines usually come in 20cc to 30cc size. These are perfect for light and moderate trimming tasks. For example, you can use these engines to maintain small yards, cut thin grass, and edge.
• The size of a medium engine is 30cc to 40cc. It is perfect for dealing with medium-sized yards. In order to cut thicker grass and weeds, you can use them. Also, these are useful in cutting moderate brush.
• Large engines usually come in a size of 40cc and above. Professionals who have to deal with stubborn weeds in big areas can choose the high-powered option.

Good Lifespan:

A high-quality model of this type of weed eaters lasts 5-10 years long. Sometimes, these are more long-lasting. However, different people have different experiences. There are several factors which contribute to a shorter or longer lifespan. These include—

• usage frequency
• brand and quality
• operating conditions,
• storage
• maintenance, and the tool’s technology.

Nowadays, you can see a rapid improvement in battery-powered ones. In gas-powered models, similar improvements help to increase lifespan and performance.

• Durability:

Sturdy materials and robust engines are used to build these kinds of weed eaters. Thus, these become reliable for longer periods compared to battery-powered machines. Remember that the engine, drive shaft, and cutting head are the major equipment of a machine. These models are made of top-quality metals or impact-resistant polymers. It allows the machine to withstand frequent outdoor use. For example, the tools can withstand encounters with tree roots, rocks, and dense vegetation.

The major focus of designing this kind of weed eater is to make the model perfect to use for heavy-duty tasks. These can handle different tasks. Thus, it becomes perfect for homeowners who have big properties or professional landscapers.

• No Cord Limitations:

As there is no cord, these do not need to rely on the electrical outlet or an extension cord. Therefore, these are capable of offering greater mobility. These models are suitable for large properties where access to power sources is limited.

• Versatility:

As these are versatile, they are capable of handling different attachments, which are cultivators, edgers, hedge trimmers, blowers, dethatchers, and extension poles, which are necessary for different kinds of landscaping activities.

• Extended Runtime:

These come with a full tank of gas, allowing them to work for longer than the runtime of battery-powered ones. If you are looking for a model for prolonged use that doesn’t irritate you, then go with gas powered ones. When it runs out of gas, you only need to refuel this.

Cons Of Gas-powered Weed Eaters:

While there are benefits, these have disadvantages as well. We have given here some disadvantages of gas-powered ones.

• Noise And Vibration Levels:

These are louder. Besides, these create more vibrations compared to electric ones. It can irritate neighbors.

• Weight:

These weigh heavier than electric ones. If you need to deal with a large property using these kinds of weed eaters, these can cause fatigue during extended use. The average weight of these weed waters is from 10 to 20 pounds or even more sometimes. Therefore, if you are looking for a model that weighs light, you must not choose them.

• Fumes Emissions:

These emit exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide. It is a harmful substance, i.e. a by-product of gasoline combustion. As a result, it can lead to pollution and ozone deterioration. If you want to avoid these problems, you need to do the below-mentioned things :

• You should not start using the machine in enclosed spaces like garages or sheds. It is because exhaust fumes can build up in these areas, leading to a danger.
• It is important to use them in outdoor areas where air is circulated properly.
• You need to buy modern machines supporting emission standards and regulations.

• Maintenance:

Compared to electric ones, these need more maintenance. These are a few maintenance tasks you need to complete:

• You will need to perform Air filter checking and replacements.
• You have to check the fuel system and need fuel replacements when necessary.
• You need to perform Carburetor cleaning for removal of debris, dirt, etc.
• You may need occasional spark plug replacements.
• You need to perform Ignition coil and wire checks and replacements.

• Expensive:

Compared to the electric machines, these models cost more. The more time passes, you need to pay more for fuel and maintenance.

Pros of Battery-powered Weed Eaters:

These cordless weed eaters are now popular because of advancements in battery technology. The benefits of these types of weed eaters are as follows:

• Eco-friendly:

When it comes to environmental friendliness, these types of weed eaters become the winner. The reason is that these do not create any emissions during use.

• Good Lifespan:

The average lifespan of a quality battery-powered model is between 3 and 7 years and relies on the below-mentioned factors:

• charging practices,
• the battery’s number of charge cycles,
• usage patterns,
• tool quality,
• environmental conditions, and proper maintenance. (Maintenance refers to cleaning, inspection and replacing damaged parts).

We can see new advancements in technology day by day, helping to expand the lifespan of such weed eaters. That is why you should go with the latest model for longer use.

• Durability:

Do not be more concerned about its durability than the gas models. Most of the battery-powered weed eaters are made keeping the quality in mind. These models are made of durable materials like plastics, aluminium, and steel. The materials provide both resilience and strength.

Battery-powered models are equipped with weather-resistant features to protect against harmful elements. The models come with sealed electrical components, along with corrosion-resistant parts, and proper finishings. Additionally, these models offer smooth operation because of their ergonomic design. Besides, using these models are more comfortable for users. When you use them, you can feel a proper weight distribution.

• Lightweight And Easy To Use:

These are easier to handle compared to gas powered ones. Besides, battery-powered ones weigh light; between 5 and 15 pounds. Remember that the power source is the reason behind the difference in weight. The weight of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries is less compared to the combination of gas and oil. Additionally, these models don’t contain fuel tanks, carburettors, or exhaust systems. Thus, these ones become more lightweight.

If you are looking for a product that weighs light, you must go with them. Moreover, you do not need to worry about the problem related to an extension cord.

• Quiet And Less Vibration:

As these kinds of weed eaters create less noise, people prefer to use them. Additionally, these generate less vibration than others. As a result, it provides the utmost comfort when you use it to trim grass and weeds. The operational advantages are possible to get because of these reasons:

• The electric motor is capable of operating more smoothly than an internal combustion engine. Manufacturers are incorporating vibration-reducing technology into these models.
• The direct drive mechanism helps to reduce the number of vibration levels and moving parts. Remember that the motor has a direct connection to the cutting head because of this mechanism.

• No Gasoline Or Oil Required:

To use these models, you do not need fuel or oil. Recharging the battery is the only need. Therefore, you do not have to buy gasoline and oil.

• Low Maintenance:

You need to maintain these models less than the gas-powered weed eaters. Hence, you do not have to worry about changing the air filter, replacing the spark plug, or adjusting the carburettor. However, it never indicates that low maintenance means you do not need to maintain them. These are the things that you still have to do:

• You need to charge the battery according to the directions of the manufacturer.
• Ensure that you are storing your model in a dry and cool area to protect your battery from extreme temperatures.
• You need to perform a battery inspection for cracks or swelling. The reason is that if you use a damaged battery, it can be risky.
• You need to remove debris, grass and others which may get stuck to the tool. So, the best thing you can do is to use a soft brush or compressed air and pay more attention to air vents.
• When you notice a decrease in runtime, you need to change the battery.
• In order to make sure everything is fine, you have to check controls, handles, and guards or shields.

• Instant Ignition:

When you push a button, these will start working. Thus, it saves your effort and time. All credits go to the instant torque and start that is provided by the electric motor. After pressing the button, the motor will begin to rotate its cutting head. But for gas powered ones, you need to pull a recoil starter.

• Interchangeable Batteries:

These include interchangeable batteries which you are able to use with other tools from the same manufacturer.

Cons Of Battery-powered Weed Eaters:

These are known for their easy-to-use features. Also, these are eco-friendly. But there are some drawbacks that you need to know about:

• Limited Operation Time:

Operation time is limited by the  capacity of the battery. You have to recharge the battery during longer trimming sessions. And you should know that it is going to be inconvenient.

• Thirty Minutes To An Hour: It happens with quick-charge models which come with lower battery capacity.
• 2 To 4 Hours: This is the standard charging time for a lithium-ion battery. Hence, the battery capacity is between 2.0Ah and 4.0Ah.
• 4 To 8 Hours: It is extended charging for those batteries which have more than 5.0Ah capacity.

• Charging Required:

The battery takes time to charge. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead in order to make sure that the model is set for use. A few models are providing fast-charging options in order to resolve the concern.

• Less Able To Handle Heavy-duty Tasks:

Although battery technology is getting improvements, these have less power than the top-quality gas-powered ones. It is one of the drawbacks of these models. So, you should not choose them when you want to have a model for heavy-duty tasks. In addition, it is not a good option when you want to cut through thick vegetation.

• Battery Replacement Cost:

Battery life relies on some factors, like the capacity of the battery, the weed eater model, and the intensity of use. You need to check runtime along with keeping in mind the needs to purchase extra batteries. Otherwise, you can go with a product that comes with a fast charging option for longer sessions. The average lifespan for a battery-powered model is between 2 and 10 years.

Top 3 Best Cordless Weed Eaters: 

1. Earthwise LST02010:

In this list, Earthwise LST02010 ranks at the top because of its simple usage and lightweight. The affordable price range of this model is grabbing the attention of the people. It runs on a 20-volt lithium-ion long-lasting battery. Besides, there exists a 10-inch cutting swath which is useful for dealing with tight spots. The auto-feed spool allows you to load this weed eater easily. Whether you are looking for a weed eater to perform simple works around your house, then it would be your best option.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight
• Simple to use

Cons:

• Voltage is low

1. EGO Power+ Trimmer:

This model impresses us with its functionality & robustness. Thanks to the POWERLOAD technology, because of which you can perform a difficult task. You just need to push a simple button to reload it and the task will be done within seconds.

It comes with a telescopic aluminium shaft, which is adjustable to your height. Remember that if you need to deal with large areas, the first thing you should think about is comfort. This feature helps to add a layer of convenience without forcing us to stretch uncomfortably.

Pros:

• Quick line loading with a button push
• Adjustable shaft
• Ergonomic design

Cons:

• Runtime is limited on a single battery charge

1. Foldable Cordless Weed Wacker Battery Powered, 2-in-1 Lightweight String Trimmer:

It is equipped with two new upgraded 21V rechargeable batteries and is able to work for 60 minutes. Besides, there is a 19000 rpm high-performance motor. Also, the model includes a 5.9-inch weeding range due to which you can perform weddings quickly. In addition, it is possible to adjust the head of this whacker up to 90°. Moreover, this model is equipped with an adjustable handle.

Pros:

• 90° Adjustable Cutting Head
• Foldable

 

Cons:

• Customer service is not good
• No instructions

Things to Look for in the Best Cordless Weed Eater:

Factors that you need to keep in mind while choosing the best cordless weed eater are as follows:

Cutting Power:

There are three main metrics — line speed, line thickness/mass, and the torque of the motor— you need to focus on when it comes to cutting power.

A model with a faster line speed can help to yield improved grass cutting. In most cases, you can get benefits while using battery-powered models in dry grass. In order to make sure that your line is spinning fast enough to slice through thicker grasses, at least 5000 RPM is needed. Products with the capability of spinning at upwards of 6500 RPM help to cut wet grass and thicker weeds.

You can cut tougher grasses using thicker trimming lines. Most of the battery-powered weed eaters are capable of handling 0.095-inch lines. A few homeowner models use a 0.080-inch line. It is suitable for dry grass. When you use a battery-powered weed eater supporting a 0.105-inch line, you should know two things. The first one is that it comes with plenty of power. And the second one is that it is a pro model. A thicker line or string indicates less runtime, while other things remain the same.

Remember that you should go for a weed eater that is equipped with a motor which is able to maintain speed under load. So, when you run it in wet grass, it is possible to hear the speed drop on lesser models. If the weed eater comes with higher torque and brushless motors, it will continue to spin the heads at times of difficult cutting situations.

Cutting Width:

A wider cutting path indicates that you can do more work in the same amount of time. When you want to run wider cutting swaths or paths, remember that more battery power is necessary. So, you need to go for a model with a cutting diameter of at least 15 inches. Does your weed eater have a cutting diameter of 16- or 17-inch? Then, ensure that the battery size and the torque should have the capability of handling such larger sizes.

Runtime:

In order to trim the grasses on a 1/4-acre land, you need about 15 minutes of consistent trigger time. Many cordless models exist that are capable of triggering consistently at high speed and you will not face difficulties. However, if the property is large, professional lawn care crews and homeowners need a model with more runtime.

In order to achieve the most effective result, it is necessary to go for dual-speed models. You should learn how to trim dry grasses at low speed. The reason is that it can provide you with a lot more runtime.

Vibration:

It is recommended to go with a weed eater providing low-vibration.

Remember that vibration can add fatigue. So, in order to manage the weight of this tool and operate smoothly, ensure that the model vibrates low. A few latest models do not vibrate up the handle to the user.

Weight and Balance:

Do you need to work on your lawn the whole day? Then, you will definitely go for the lightweight product, and you definitely do not want to sacrifice the needed power. You even need a lightweight weed eater when you want to provide the finishing touches on your yard. Try to get a cordless, fully-loaded battery powered weed eater which weighs under 10 pounds and is capable of performing as you want.

Balance is a crucial thing that should be considered. Weed eaters with the best balance can mount the motor on the head of the trimmer in order to counter the weight of the battery on the back. Several weed eaters allow you to dial in your fit by adjusting the front handle.

Whether you want to have an attachment-capable model, you may get stuck with the motor in the back. It causes the balance to shift back. It is necessary to add a shoulder strap for weed eaters who weigh heavily. Thus, you can control them more easily.

Sound Level:

The level of sound is one of the important things that you need to keep in mind. Low noise level is a crucial advantage when you move away from gas power. Generally, cordless products range from the low 80s to the upper 90s decibels. So, it could be stated that using battery-powered models can give you more benefits than gas powered ones.

Also, remember that the selection of line plays a crucial role in these tools than in the gas-powered ones. You can reduce the sound level by switching your used line. Also, it allows you to change the tone to a yard which irrigates less.

Line Changes:

You must not mind manual loading, while changing lines. It is necessary to search for those products that come with a fast-loading system. You are capable of feeding a line straight through the head using loading methods. You can turn the tool’s head for loading it. Or in order to pull in the string, you need to activate a power loader.

Attachment Capability:

Basically, Pro lawn crews use advanced products for different purposes like string trimming, edging, and hedge trimming. However, if you are planning to buy a model for your home, you need to use interchangeable heads. It can save you plenty of money. Also you need to use tools letting you cover blowing, brush cutting, and so on.

A top-mounted motor is necessary for attachment systems to affect the balance.

Another thing that you have to keep in mind is the attachment connection style. There are several models providing a “universal” connection. These are able to use attachments from different brands. As a result, it provides a lot more options. However, EGO, Milwaukee, and Stihl do not support others. That’s why if you are planning to buy your weed eater from this brand, you have to ensure that the product you have picked comes with all the necessary things.

The Bottom Line:

If you use battery-powered models, you can give your yard a clean look without facing the hassle of a gas engine. However, you need to keep in mind that the operation time is limited by the battery powered ones, along with considering battery replacement costs. Whereas gas powered ones are durable and come with a good life span. But these weigh heavier than electric ones and emit exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide. So, whether you need to go for a gas powered one or a battery powered one depends on your requirements and demands. In this article, we have mentioned the top 3 best cordless weed eaters. Choose any of these as per your budget and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions  

1. How should you store your weed eater?

You need to first follow the long-term storage recommendations given by the manufacturer. You have to store the product in a dry and cool place. It extends the equipment’s life, saving your money in the long run.

1. What is a brushless motor?

This type of motor is durable enough. Besides, it makes the model efficient and allows it to operate smoothly. Additionally, it needs less maintenance.

1. Can you use a battery-powered weed eater on wet grass?

No, you are not recommended to do so. Because wet grass can give you more challenges while cutting. Moreover, the battery of the tool will be worn out faster, if you use a battery-powered weed eater on wet grass.