Navigating the many options on the market to find an ideal line trimmer for your needs can be quite a challenge. But fret not! We've taken on the task of conducting thorough research on line trimmers, often referred to as whipper snippers, so you don't have to.
Our review and recommendations simplify the process of selecting the whipper snipper that perfectly suits your requirements. We also include a buying guide and discuss the different power options, trimmer types, and shaft choices below. Ready? Let's get to it.
Our Top Picks
Don't have the time to comb through the research below? Here are our top three whipper snipper picks in Australia:
WORX WG163E Grass Trimmer
Best battery-powered line trimmer and edger with a 30 cm cutting width, adjustable head and handles, and a good battery life.
BBT 36CC Petrol Trimmer
Best petrol line trimmer with a 36cc 4-stroke engine and versatile attachment options: pole chainsaw, hedge trimmer, brush cutter, edger, garden tiller, sweeper, and blower.
STIHL FSE 71 Electric Trimmer
Best corded-electric line trimmer with a 35 cm cutting width, an ergonomic soft grip handle, and cable strain relief for convenience.
Cordless Line Trimmers
Cordless line trimmers, also known as cordless weed eaters or string trimmers, operate on rechargeable batteries, offering freedom of movement without the constraints of cords. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and emit minimal noise, making them a popular choice for maintaining lawns and garden edges.
1. WORX WG163E Grass Trimmer
Best Battery-Powered Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 30 cm
Weight: 2.4 kg
The WORX WG163E is a versatile garden tool that is a trimmer and an edger. Switching from trimmer to edger is easy. The tool also has a flower guard to protect flowers and lawn ornaments.
This grass trimmer boasts an adjustable head and handles for enhanced flexibility, enabling you to reach challenging areas. The head can pivot up to 90 degrees, accommodating various terrains. Equipped with two wheels, the WORX WG163E enhances stability during trimming and edging tasks.
Moreover, this trimmer is height-adjustable for a comfortable experience and comes with a Li-Ion battery, ensuring ample power for all your trimming and edging needs. Additionally, it's part of the Powershare battery platform, allowing you to interchange the battery with other 20V WORX tools, adding to its convenience and versatility.
Pros
- Convertible edger
- Comes with two batteries
- Competitive price
- Adjustable shaft
Cons
- No power indicator to show the battery left
- Charge time takes three hours
2. Bosch EasyGrass Cut 18 Trimmer
Best for Precision Edge-Cutting
Cutting width: 26 cm
Weight: 3.5 kg
The EasyGrass Cut 18 Trimmer is ideal for tackling small to medium-sized grass and edge-cutting tasks. Thanks to its potent motor, extended battery life, and streamlined design, it delivers top-notch grass-trimming and precise edge-cutting capabilities. We found it perfect for tight spaces or corners that larger tools can't access.
Bosch's EasyGrass Cut trimmer is also exceptionally lightweight, weighing just around 2.2 kg without a battery for effortless handling that won't strain your back. It also offers adjustable cutting lengths through its auxiliary handle. Its semi-auto feed system automatically releases the trimmer line when the garden tool is in use, ensuring an ideal line length. And with just a tap and a twist of the handle, you can seamlessly switch to edging mode.
The EasyGrassCut 18's 18-volt lithium-ion battery has enough power to trim the edges of nearly six tennis courts on one charge. Plus, it features a Syneon Chip that prolongs the tool's battery runtime. This allows for uninterrupted cutting, saving you time in the long run.
Pros
- The cordless trimmer is easy to use
- Decent cutting width of 26 cm
- Long battery life
- 60 minutes charging time
- Includes semi-auto feed system
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Bit pricey
3. Makita DUR189RM 18V Line Trimmer Kit
Best for General Garden Maintenance
Cutting width: 30 cm
Weight: 3.4 kg
The Makita DUR189RM 18V Cordless Brushless Line Trimmer Kit includes a nylon cutting head, a band assembly, two hex wrenches, an accessory bag, a protector, and a loop handle. The trimmer features a brushless motor and a curved telescopic shaft that extends from 1,518mm to 1,618mm. It also has an automatic torque drive that shifts RPM automatically from 4,000 – 6,000 under heavy resistance to balance between power and endurance.
For performance, you have four speed settings to choose from. Auto (or ATD) is relatively weak, so I recommend at least setting it to two. There's also a reverse button, but it only works briefly. Battery life is a point of contention, depending on your task and speed setting. We got 25-30 minutes from the supplied 4Ah battery with medium-thick edges to trim.
We found the trimmer works well for light grass. It's also powerful and efficient for general garden maintenance and edging. However, dealing with thicker grass requires more effort and doesn't edge as smoothly. Just be cautious, as they can get tangled. The upside, however, is maintenance is a breeze; it's easy to take apart and clean out if needed.
Pros
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Versatile for general garden maintenance
- Efficient and powerful for light grass and edging
- Comes with a quick charger
Cons
- Less effective on thicker grass
- Battery life can be better
4. Greenworks 40V Trimmer/Edger
Best Portable Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 33 cm
Weight: 4.17 kg
The Greenworks 40v String Trimmer has a powerful motor, a 33 cm cutting path, and variable speed control. This functionality allows you to adjust the cutting speed on the fly, which is handy when manoeuvring around plants and shrubs and provides precise control.
For ease of use, the whipper snipper includes a push-button start that eliminates the hassle of pull cords. Its lightweight design and superior ergonomics also reduce fatigue, ensuring comfortable use during longer trimming sessions. Plus, the included wheel adds portability and allows easy access to tight corners, enhancing overall convenience.
We recommend it if you're looking for a reasonably powerful and user-friendly line trimmer for lawn maintenance. The battery-powered trimmer's variable speed control, low maintenance requirements, and ergonomic design make it a great option to keep your yard in top shape.
Pros
- Good power
- Affective bump head
- Comparatively less noisy
- Battery recharges in 60 minutes
Cons
- Pricey
- Heavier than most on our list
Petrol-Powered Line Trimmers
Fueled by gasoline, petrol-powered line trimmers offer consistent, powerful cutting performance and unrestricted mobility, making them well-suited for demanding lawn and garden maintenance tasks.
However, they tend to be noisier and emit pollutants. They are generally heavier and require regular maintenance, including fuel mixing and engine care, to keep running smoothly.
5. BBT 36cc Petrol Trimmer
Best Versatile Petrol Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 25 cm
Weight: 8 kg
The BBT 4-Stroke Petrol Multi Tool 6-in-1 is a versatile outdoor power tool. Its key highlight is its robust 36cc 4-stroke engine, which is not only impressively powerful but also remarkably quiet. The tool functions as a pole chainsaw, hedge trimmer, brush cutter, and line trimmer, and the quick-release mechanism makes switching between attachments easy.
The BBT multi-tool is built for longevity. Its heavy-duty pole construction weighs 8 kg and has a high-quality Oregon chain for dependable cutting performance. We were impressed by the range of accessories, such as an edger, garden tiller, sweeper, and blower.
The tool's unique selection of attachments and good value for money make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a multi-tool for various gardening tasks. Its spare parts are fully backed by BBT.
Pros
- Robust 36cc 4-stroke engine
- Versatile 6-in-1 functionality
- Quick-release mechanism
- Optional extras for added versatility
- Good value for money
- Manufacturer-backed spare parts
Cons
- Difficulty sometimes in starting the tool
- Power switch can be accidentally bumped off during use
- Whipper snipper head requires short lengths of line
6. Rover RS2600 Curved Shaft Line Trimmer
Best for General Purpose Use
Cutting width: 43 cm
Weight: 5.6 kg
The Rover R2600 Curved Shaft Line Trimmer has a robust 25cc 2-stroke engine that offers exceptional durability and starts effortlessly, thanks to its SpringAssist starting technology. Its adjustable deluxe handle minimises vibration and operator fatigue and is vital for petrol-powered trimmers, which are often heavier.
Rover RS2600 also features the bump head line release, allowing for the instant release of pre-measured lines and continuous operation without interruptions. The line trimmer is highly adaptable, with various attachments available for separate purchase, including a Garden Cultivator, Lawn Edger, Articulated Hedge Trimmer, Blower, Pruning Saw, and Brushcutter, making it a versatile tool for different gardening needs.
The RS2600 performs up to its specifications, and its 2-year domestic and 90-day commercial warranties provide peace of mind regarding its durability and reliability. While the unit is uncommon among professionals, it's a high-quality, value-for-money petrol line trimmer for homeowners.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Powerful
- Competitive price
- Long-lasting build quality
Cons
- Higher emissions
7. STIHL FS 38 Petrol Grass Line Trimmer
Best Value Petrol Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 38 cm
Weight: 4.1 kg
The STIHL FS 38 AutoCut Petrol Grass Line Trimmer is lightweight and reliable for homeowners looking for a budget pick. It's powered by a 27.2cc, 2-stroke engine with a cutting width of 38 cm that offers a perfect blend of power and durability, making it an excellent choice for domestic trimming and lawn edging tasks.
STIHL's line trimmer offers high cutting speeds, allowing you to complete trimming tasks quickly. Its loop handle enhances manoeuvrability in tight spaces, such as navigating between bushes and shrubs and tackling hard-to-reach areas. The fully lined drive shaft provides smooth operation and less vibration.
Other key features of the budget-friendly petrol line trimmer include a high-tech polymer housing that is lightweight, withstands greater impact, and is corrosion-resistant, a protected choke lever/knob to prevent damage, and an easily removable air filter cover for fast and easy filter cleaning or replacement.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use and handle
- Good performance engine
- Easy filter cleaning or replacement
- Good value for money
Cons
- Reported issues with the line feeding head
- Can be a bit too high off the ground
Electric Line Trimmers (Corded)
Electric line trimmers, or corded line trimmers, are powered by electricity through a cord connected to a power outlet. These trimmers are popular among homeowners with smaller to medium-sized yards due to their ease of use and environmental friendliness.
One key advantage is their reliability and lightweight design. However, the limited range imposed by the cord may require the use of extension cords or careful planning of yard layouts.
8. STIHL FSE 71 Electric Trimmer
Best Corded Electric Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 35 cm
Weight: 4 kg
The STIHL FSE 71 Electric Trimmer has essential features for trimming and thinning tasks, especially in noise-sensitive environments. Its loop handle adds control and precision to pruning and thinning jobs and is perfect for areas with limited space. The absence of a harness makes manoeuvring around obstacles convenient.
For added convenience, STIHL's electric line trimmer has a cable strain relief, a thoughtful addition that prevents the power cable from accidentally disconnecting during operation. There's also the ergonomic soft grip handle that allows for extended periods of use without discomfort or fatigue.
The electric grass trimmer has a gauge wheel, a valuable accessory for protecting tree bark and plants from the cutting line. And despite its power, it remains surprisingly lightweight at just 4 kg. The standard mowing head, AutoCut C 5-2, enhances its efficiency, providing a clean and precise cut.
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Cable strain relief
- Comfortable design
Cons
- Line feeder challenges
9. Ozito 500W 290mm Electric Line Trimmer
Best Cheap Corded Line Trimmer
Cutting width: 29 cm
Weight: 2.8 kg
The Ozito 500W 290 mm is a budget electric line trimmer with a telescopic shaft. Its height can be adjusted for ergonomics and maximum comfort during use. The trimmer also has a rotating head with a unique edging wheel for greater control, an adjustable cutting head for easy trimming under low-hanging shrubs and trees, and an automatic line feed for convenience.
Ozito's automatic line feed makes trimming easier by reducing interruptions, allowing you to stay focused. Paired with the twin-line cutting system, it ensures cleaner cuts and more efficient grass trimming, saving you time and effort.
This corded line trimmer has a 500W power rating and a weight of just 2.8 kg. While this product is designed for DIY use, its performance and features mimic those of more expensive models. On purchase, you get a 3-year replacement warranty alongside.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Good for lawn edges
- Best for light to medium grass trimmings
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- May require extra cutting line
- Requires take a couple of passes on thicker tufts
Brush cutters vs. Line trimmers
Most of the models we've recommended are line trimmers, but there's another cutting tool category: brush cutters. Brush cutters share similar functionalities with line trimmers but are considerably more robust machines, capable of handling heavy-duty lawn tasks. They excel at clearing tall grass, small trees, and dense vegetation.
While line trimmers typically use nylon cords to trim grass, brush cutters use solid blades. This design choice enables them to cut more efficiently, especially in challenging grasses and robust plants.
A brush cutter is more effective than a line trimmer in demanding scenarios like overgrown wooded areas or highly neglected lawns. It completes the task faster and more efficiently. In the video above, RYOBI provides a detailed overview of its brush cutter product and offers tips for trimming lines.
Line Trimmer Power Options
While they may be less environmentally friendly than the other two line trimmers, petrol-powered trimmers undeniably offer the highest power level. This is why professional gardeners predominantly opt for petrol-powered line trimmers. Plus, the modern variants are less polluting than their predecessors.
Petrol-powered line trimmers don't require battery recharge or searching for an electrical outlet, ensuring convenient use even on nature strips. Modern models, particularly the 4-stroke variants, operate more smoothly than earlier petrol-powered lawn equipment.
Nonetheless, electric or battery-powered models are worth considering for typical domestic applications. Likewise, if noise pollution or environmental concerns associated with petrol are a priority, battery-powered or corded line trimmers are excellent alternatives. Plus, non-petrol models eliminate the need for engine maintenance.
Bent or Straight Shaft: Which is Better?
One key distinguishing factor of line trimmers is whether they have a bent or straight shaft. This differentiation has implications for price and manoeuvrability, so it's crucial to consider this when selecting.
Straight-shaft models are for taller individuals or those seeking extended reach. Through our research and hands-on testing of various grass trimmers, we've found that straight-shaft trimmers excel in accessing challenging, hard-to-reach areas, whereas curved shafts are more adept at precise edging tasks.
Conversely, the bent-shaft trimmer presents a more budget-friendly alternative. If your lawn trimming needs are less demanding, this cost-effective option performs admirably for routine tasks, providing an economical solution that effectively completes the job.
Two-Piece or One-Piece Shaft?
A two-piece or split shaft design enables the same engine to power other attachments, such as a lawn edger. This is a good idea for domestic users and regular usage to save money and shed space, and a two-piece shaft would be a feature.
For a lawn care professional who generally carries more than one similar tool in their trailer, having a single-piece shaft eliminates another area for wear and failure, so commercial-level trimmers have a one-piece shaft as standard.
Cutting Line Attachments
The cutting line is attached to the hub in three ways. Bump feed is the most common. As the line wears down, you bump the underside of the hub on the ground, releasing a regulated length of the line.
There is also the automatic feed option, typically found only on electric whipper snippers. This type uses a counterbalance on the line weight to detect when a new line must be dispensed. However, it is unreliable on cheaper models and more hassle than a bump feed.
Manual feed is the simplest option. You attach several straight, reinforced lines that are replaced when worn out. This strong line will last longer and cut better than the standard trimmer line and is quick to replace; however, if you have a thicker line, you'll get cut much worse if you have an accident.
How to Choose a Whipper Snipper?
When choosing a whipper snipper, consider critical factors such as the power source, cutting width, weight, and ergonomics.
Step 1: Decide on the Power Source
Whipper snippers can be powered by electricity, gas, or battery. Generally, electrically powered whipper snippers are less powerful but more environmentally friendly. Gas models offer more power but with a compromise on emissions that aren't environmentally friendly. Battery-powered models depend heavily on runtime but offer a compromise on strength and noise.
Step 2: Consider Your Lawn Size
For cutting width, note that this determines how much surface area your whipper snipper can cover in one go. A wider cutting width is ideal for larger areas, and a narrow one is ideal for tight spaces and more precision. Depending on your lawn size and use case, you may choose a larger or narrower cutting width.
Step 3: Evaluate User-Friendliness
Finally, whipper snippers can sometimes be difficult or awkward due to their size and weight. Choose a machine that fits the nature of your work and can be used for extended periods. Consider the ergonomics of the whipper snipper; more adjustable features allow you to customise the equipment to your ideal comfort levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying, using, and maintaining a whipper snipper.
What will a whipper snipper help do?
Whipper snippers help gardeners complete a variety of tasks, including trimming grass in hard-to-reach areas like corners/edges/around trees, creating neat edges along sidewalks/driveways/garden beds, and removing weeds from lawns and gardens.
Can a whipper snipper cut grass?
Yes, a whipper snipper can cut grass. Whipper snippers, also known as string trimmers or weed whackers, are commonly used to trim grass and weeds in areas that a lawn mower can't easily reach, such as around trees, along fence lines, and in tight corners. They are, however, not suitable for lawn mowing tasks.
Are whipper snippers good for cutting weeds?
Whipper snippers are designed with a rotating cutting that helps use a string or line to cut through vegetation. Thus, they are excellent for cutting weeds. If you have too tall or thick weeds for a lawnmower to handle, a whipper snipper can help finish the task. But be sure to use the right model for the appropriate workload.
How long do whipper snippers last?
Whipper snippers have a battery life that lasts anywhere between 30 to 60 consecutive minutes. Charge time also ranges from thirty minutes to three hours, but this varies depending on the specific whipper snipper model you are using and the battery it comes with.
What is the difference between a whipper snipper and a line trimmer?
A whipper snipper and a line trimmer are essentially the same tool, used interchangeably in different regions. The term "whipper snipper" is more commonly used in Australia, while "line trimmer" is popular in other parts of the world.
Mark Thompson
Trimming Down to the Best
Using a comfortable and ergonomic whipper snipper is an excellent investment. They are much more affordable than other garden equipment, yet save you time due to their fast-acting abilities.
Whipper snippers give lawn edges a neat appearance. While they may be the answer to a clean-cut garden, having the right model is crucial to getting the most out of your machine. We hope this guide gives you a conclusive overview of choosing which option best suits your lawn.
To wrap up, maintain your whipper snipper of choice regularly after purchase. This includes cleaning the air filter, checking the cutting line, and providing proper storage so it lasts longer than usual.
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