The 5 Best String Trimmers for Edging
We looked at string trimmers for edging using manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports. Each pick lists what it does well and where it falls short, so you can match it to how you'll use it.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Quick picks
Key specs: 15-inch cutting swath with POWERLOAD auto-feed line, 56V ARC Lithium battery, 2.5Ah included, Carbon fiber split shaft.
- 15-inch cutting swath with POWERLOAD auto-feed line
- 56V ARC Lithium battery, 2.5Ah included
- Carbon fiber split shaft
- Pivoting head for vertical edging
- Brushless motor
Strengths
- Pivoting head locks cleanly into edging position without extra tools
- POWERLOAD auto-feed threads new line in seconds, useful after a long edging session wears the line down
- 56V battery has enough torque to run the line against curb edges without bogging
- Carbon fiber shaft keeps the tool light for one-handed edging control
Limitations
- 56V battery and charger add cost versus 40V competitors
- Proprietary EGO battery doesn't cross over to other brands
- No built-in guide wheel, so depth control is by feel
Key specs: 13-inch dual-exit cutting head, 40V PowerShare battery system, 2 x 2.0Ah batteries included, Pivoting head with adjustable angle.
- 13-inch dual-exit cutting head
- 40V PowerShare battery system, 2 x 2.0Ah batteries included
- Pivoting head with adjustable angle
- Auto-feed line advance
- Under 5 pounds
Strengths
- Under 5 pounds makes it easy to hold at the edging angle for long stretches
- Two included batteries mean a full lot can be edged and trimmed on one charge cycle
- Dual-exit head keeps line closer to hardscape without scalping the lawn
Limitations
- 13-inch swath means more passes on a wide driveway
- 2.0Ah batteries run down faster on dense edging line-to-concrete contact
- Pivot angle has fewer fixed detents than the EGO's mechanism
3.Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Brand: Greenworks · Best for: edging
ASIN: B01GEW1AJC
Key specs: 12-inch cutting swath, 40V lithium battery, 2.0Ah included, Pivoting head.
- 12-inch cutting swath
- 40V lithium battery, 2.0Ah included
- Pivoting head
- Variable speed trigger
- 3-year warranty
Strengths
- Lowest price of the group while still including a pivoting head
- Variable speed trigger helps conserve battery during precision edging
- 3-year warranty covers longer than most trimmers at this price
Limitations
- 12-inch swath is the narrowest here, meaning more time on longer edges
- 2.0Ah battery has the shortest runtime in this list
- Pivot mechanism feels less solid than EGO or Worx
Key specs: 28cc 2-cycle gas engine, 17-inch cutting swath, Straight shaft with Tap 'n Go head.
- 28cc 2-cycle gas engine
- 17-inch cutting swath
- Straight shaft with Tap 'n Go head
- Smart Start recoil system
- Air Purge carburetor priming
Strengths
- 17-inch swath covers a long driveway edge in fewer passes than any battery model here
- No battery to manage on properties with hundreds of feet of edging
- Straight shaft gives more reach along raised beds and retaining walls
Limitations
- No dedicated pivoting edge guide, angle is held manually
- Heavier and louder than the cordless options
- Requires mixed fuel and periodic carburetor maintenance
Strengths
- Light and easy to handle
- Converts to an edger
- Affordable tool-only price
- Shares 24V batteries
Limitations
- Battery and charger not included
- 12-inch swath is narrow
- For light trimming only
How we chose
- Picks are based on manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports. We don't claim our own testing.
- We do not list prices or star ratings because they change. Check Amazon for current details.