10 Best Whipper Snippers in Australia (2024)

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 recommendations simplify the process, making it easy for you to select 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. 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.

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Rover RS2600 Line Trimmer

Best petrol line trimmer with a robust 25cc, 2-stroke engine, 43 cm cutting width, bump head line release, and many attachment options.

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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.

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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

The WORX WG163E serves as a versatile tool for gardeners, functioning both as a trimmer and an edger. Switching from trimmer to edger is easy, with no need for additional tools. The tool has a flower guard allowing you to protect your flowers and lawn ornaments.

This grass trimmer boasts an adjustable head and handles for enhanced flexibility, enabling you to reach challenging areas comfortably. 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.

What's more, 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

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2. Bosch EasyGrass Cut 18 Trimmer

Best for Precision Edge-Cutting

The EasyGrass Cut 18 Trimmer is ideal for tackling small to medium-sized grass and edge-cutting tasks, delivering top-notch grass-trimming and precise edge-cutting capabilities thanks to its potent motor, extended battery life, and streamlined design. 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. With its semi-auto feed system, the trimmer line is automatically released when the garden tool is in use, ensuring an ideal line length at all times. And with just a tap and a twist of the handle, you can seamlessly switch to edging mode.

On one charge, the EasyGrassCut 18, with its 18-volt lithium-ion battery, has enough power to trim the edges of close to six tennis courts. Plus, It features a Syneon Chip that prolongs the runtime of the tool's battery. This way, you have an uninterrupted cutting that will save 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

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3. Black+Decker GLC3630 String Trimmer

Best for Ease of Use

The Black+Decker GLC3630 String Trimmer employs a straight shaft design to enhance both comfort and manoeuvrability. It offers the flexibility to choose maximum runtime in ECO mode or unleash extra power in TURBO mode. It also features cutting-edge E-Drive technology, equipped with a high-torque gear system to accelerate all trimming tasks. Plus, with a sound pressure level of 80 dB, you are guaranteed robust performance with a bearable noise level.

Black+Decker GLC3630 has a 28 cm cutting swathe and a fast cutting speed that can go as high as 8500 RPM, making it ideal for larger gardens and when heavy-duty cutting applications are needed. And thanks to the power select feature, you can easily optimise the run time while trimming grass. It combines this with a long-lasting lithium battery with no self-discharge, ensuring it's always ready to use. You can cut up to about 3750 linear metres on a single charge.

For ease of use and ergonomics, the string trimmer's telescopic handle and lightweight construction, tipping the scales at just 4 kg, means that it won't impose a significant burden on your hands during operation. The secondary handle helps distribute the weight to reduce strain, and the primary handle has a rubber fitting and over-moulded non-slip grip for comfort and to reduce fatigue.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Efficient for different garden needs
• Ergonomically comfortable
• Automatic feed spool
• 2-year warranty

Cons

• 2 hours charging time
• Have to replace the battery for larger jobs

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4. Makita DUR189RM 18V Line Trimmer Kit

Best for General Garden Maintenance

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 quite weak, so I'd 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 around 25-30 minutes tops out of 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

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5. Greenworks 40V Cordless Trimmer/Edger

Best for Portability

The Greenworks 12-inch 40V Cordless String Trimmer boasts great aesthetics and packs a punch with its powerful motor. It offers a 30 cm cutting path with variable speed control to adjust the cutting speed on the fly. This feature is incredibly useful when maneuvering around plants and shrubs, providing 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 mean reduced 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 fairly powerful and user-friendly line trimmer for lawn maintenance. Its variable speed control, low maintenance requirements, and ergonomic design make it a great choice for keeping 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

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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. Likewise, they require regular maintenance, including fuel mixing and engine care, to keep running smoothly. They are also generally heavier.

6. Rover RS2600 Curved Shaft Line Trimmer

Best Petrol Line Trimmer

The Rover R2600 Curved Shaft Line Trimmer has a robust 25cc, 2-stroke engine, which offers exceptional durability and starts up effortlessly, thanks to the innovative SpringAssist™ starting technology. Its adjustable deluxe handle minimises vibration and operator fatigue, which is particularly important for petrol-powered trimmers, as they're 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.

In terms of performance, the RS2600 lives up to its specifications, and the 2-year domestic and 90-day commercial warranties provide peace of mind regarding its durability and reliability. While the unit is not common with many lawn mowing 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

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7. BBT 36cc Petrol 4 Stroke Multi Tool 6-in-1

Best Versatile Petrol Line Trimmer

The BBT 4 Stroke Petrol Multi Tool 6-in-1 is a versatile outdoor power tool. The key highlight of this multi-tool is its robust 36cc 4-stroke engine, which is not only impressively powerful but also remarkably quiet. It functions as a pole chainsaw, hedge trimmer, brush cutter, and line trimmer, and switching between attachments is a breeze with the quick-release mechanism.

The BBT multi-tool is built for longevity, with a heavy-duty pole construction that weighs 8 kg. Plus, it comes with a high-quality Oregon chain for dependable cutting performance. We were particularly impressed by the range of optional extras available, such as an edger, garden tiller, sweeper, and blower, which significantly enhance its versatility.

The tool's unique selection of attachments and good value for money make it a great choice for anyone looking for a multi-tool to handle a variety of gardening tasks. And even better, all spare parts are fully backed by the manufacturer on purchase.

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

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8. STIHL FS 38 Petrol Grass Line Trimmer

Best Value Petrol Line Trimmer

The STIHL FS 38 AutoCut Petrol Grass Line Trimmer is a lightweight and reliable trimmer 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, which allow you to complete trimming tasks in a short amount of time. Its loop handle also enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, such as easily navigating between bushes and shrubs and tackling hard-to-reach areas. You also get a fully lined drive shaft that 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
• Corrosion-resistant build
• 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

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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.

9. STIHL FSE 71 Electric Trimmer

Best Corded Electric Line Trimmer

The STIHL FSE 71 Electric Trimmer is equipped with essential features for trimming and thinning tasks, especially in noise-sensitive environments. It has a loop handle, which adds control and precision to your trimming and thinning jobs, and is perfect for areas with limited space. The absence of a harness makes it convenient to maneuver around obstacles.

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, which is 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

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10. Ozito 500W 290mm Electric Line Trimmer

Best Cheap Corded Line Trimmer

The Ozito 500W 290 mm is a budget electric line trimmer with a telescopic shaft, allowing for height adjustment for ergonomics and maximum comfort during use. The trimmer 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 helps trim faster. It simplifies the process, ensuring you can focus on the task without constant interruptions. This, combined with the twin-line cutting system, ensures cleaner 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

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Brush cutters vs. Line Trimmers

Most of the models we've recommended are line trimmers, but there's another category of cutting tools: 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 not only tall grass but also small trees and dense vegetation.

While line trimmers typically employ nylon cords for grass trimming, brush cutters use solid blades. This design choice enables them to achieve more efficient trimming, especially in challenging grasses and robust plants.

For demanding scenarios like overgrown wooded areas or highly neglected lawns, a brush cutter surpasses a line trimmer in effectiveness. It completes the task faster and with greater efficiency. In the video above, RYOBI provides a detailed overview of its brush cutter product and offers tips on dealing with trimming lines.

Line Trimmer Power Options

While they may be less environmentally friendly than the other two types of line trimmers, petrol-powered trimmers undeniably offer the highest power level. This is the primary reason why professional gardeners predominantly opt for petrol-powered line trimmers. Plus, the modern variants are less polluting than their predecessors.

With petrol-powered line trimmers, you won't need to recharge batteries or search 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, for typical domestic applications, electric or battery-powered models are worth considering. 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 come with a bent shaft or a straight shaft, and this differentiation has implications for both price and maneuverability. It's crucial to take this into account when making your line trimmer selection.

Straight-shaft models are the preferred choice for individuals seeking extended reach or those who are notably tall. 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

There are three ways in which the cutting line is attached to the hub. 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 option of automatic feed. These are typically only found on electric whipper snippers. They use a counterbalance on the line weight to detect when a new line must be dispensed. They are not so reliable on cheaper models and end up more hassle than a bump feed.

Manual feed is the simplest option, and users must attach a set amount of straight, reinforced lines that must be 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 like 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, keep 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 cutting width is ideal for tight spaces and more precision. Depending on your lawn size and use case, you may decide to go with a larger or narrower cutting width.

Step 3: Evaluate User-Friendliness

Finally, whipper snippers are sometimes difficult or awkward to handle due to their size and weight. Choose a machine that fits in with the nature of your work and can be used for extended periods of time. Here, 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.

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Trimming Down to the Best

Using a comfortable and ergonomic whipper snipper is an excellent investment. They are much more affordable than other sophisticated pieces of garden equipment, yet save you time due to their fast-acting abilities.

Whipper snippers give your lawn edges a neat and tidy appearance and are also supreme at keeping weeds tamed. And while they may be the answer to a clean-cut garden, having the right kind of model is crucial to how much you can get out of your machine. We hope this guide gives you a conclusive overview to choose which one best suits you and your lawn.

To wrap up, be sure to provide your whipper snipper of choice with regular maintenance after purchase. Clean the air filter, check the cutting line, and provide proper storage so your whipper snipper and other garden equipment can last longer than usually expected.