If you have an extensive lawn to trim, the perfect tool that can help you out in this regard is a walk-behind string trimmer. Why? Because unlike metal-blade-containing grass and weed cutters, string trimmers are not dangerous and difficult to handle. Also, they offered a diverse range from which you can choose one of the best walk-behind string trimmers – one that meets your comfort level and yard needs perfectly.
Similarly, walking behind string trimmers also remains light on your nerves and back so you won’t get tired even when doing demanding jobs. The major types of walk-behind string trimmers include gas-powered, electric, and cordless or battery-powered trimmers. Some of them are a little heavier but can tackle the thickest vegetation in a swipe, whereas, some of them are lightweight but can do the basic trimming.
Thus, to help you find your dream tool, I’ve put together some of the best walk-behind string trimmers I’ve used in the last several years. Along with their names and amazon links, I also penned down my detailed reviews about how every tool came out and what are the pros and cons it actually offers. So, just dive into the article and I’m sure, by the end, you’ll have a clear idea about which Walk-Behind string trimmer is your go-to solution.
Table of Contents
Best walk behind string trimmer Comparison Table 2022
7 Best walk behind string trimmer
1. BLACK+DECKER 4-Cycle Gas Powered 22-Inch Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer
This gas-powered BLACK+DECKER walk behind string trimmers comes with numerous interesting attributes which can deal with almost all types of vegetation and all kinds of terrain. Despite being a heavy-duty gas-powered trimmer, I am really amazed how the manufacturer has successfully made it highly compact and space-efficient.
The unit weighs 78 pounds which are, without any doubt, extremely bulky but thanks to the huge 14-inches high wheels that makes pushing it nearly effortless. The most interesting aspect of this trimmer is its unique and innovative deck design which features curves. These curves ensure the cleanest and sharpest edges and trimming around fences, flower beds, and other tighter corners.
Overall, the size of its cutting swath is 22 inches which are sufficient to clean a wide lawn in a few minutes. Just like other gas-powered garden tools, this trimmer also comes with a recoil start system to make the robust engine run. During the trial, I noticed that the string line, fed into the unit, (that is 0.155 inches) can’t cut through the woody twigs.
However, it’s still powerful enough to cut the thick weeds and plant stems in a swipe. Also, the string line won’t need to be replaced even when hitting metal posts or rubber markers. Another plus point here is that replacing the trimmer line also takes no more than two to three minutes.
- Heavy-duty push string trimmer
- Collapsible handles
- Giant wheels for rough terrain
- 22 inches cutting swath
- Innovative deck design
- Can trim both narrower and wide patches
- Smooth recoil start
- The long-lasting trimmer line
- Powerful engine
- No fuel indicator
- A little heavier
The only inconvenience associated with this gas-powered trimmer is that it doesn’t contain any fuel indicator. The only way to check the fuel level is to dip a long-necked funnel into the fuel chamber. The same funnel is also required to refill the fuel tank. In a nutshell, with its wide cutting swath, powerful engine, thick trimmer line, and durable wheels, this push string trimmer is ideal to get the trimming jobs done for a lawn of two acres, without breaking a sweat.
2. Craftsman 25A-262J793 Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer
This craftsman walk-behind string trimmer resembles a lot of the previous model in many aspects. For example, it has high 14-inches wheels to manoeuvre over rough and bumpy terrains. It also has a powerful four-cycle engine that can clean all types of stubborn weeds and grass, easily.
Likewise, this machine also contains an offset trimmer head which enables the user to chop down unnecessary vegetation around fences and tricky corners easily. Its cutting swath is also 22-inch which helps to get the job done quickly and more efficiently. When I researched its exact weight, I was surprised to see that this machine also weighs around 78 pounds.
Like the previous model, it also comes with foldable handles that enable storing this monster trimmer even in a small shed. I also found using this machine quite easy and hassle-free since a very intuitive recoil system is given to turn the main engine on. Just a single pull and your tool start roaring.
- Chop even the thickest weeds and plants
- Trim around tricky obstacles effortlessly
- Foldable handles
- Sturdy and powerful engine
- High, 14-inch wheels for better manoeuvrability
- The smooth and intuitive recoil system
- 22-inch cutting swath
- Easy-to-replace trimmer line
- Perfect for heavy-duty trimming
- Heavy
- Expensive
At the same time, the heavy-duty wheel makes pushing this heavy machine easier and you don’t feel much strain or pressure over your muscles. Yes, this push string trimmer comes along with a premium price tag but believe me, if you looking for a machine for heavy-duty home use or light-duty commercial use, you won’t find any better tool than this Craftsman 25A-262J793 Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer.
3. Remington RM1159 159cc 4-Cycle Gas Powered Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer
Looking for an excellent string trimmer for bigger jobs? If so, this Remington gas-powered string trimmer might end your search. The best part of this trimmer, which I found, is its wide suitability. Whether you want to cut thick grass blades from a wide grass lawn or want to clean off unwanted vegetation around tricky edges, this product can make any difficult job seem easy.
Do you have a rocky or bumpy lawn? No worries at all since the hard, durable, high-wheels of this machine make the unit float through all types of terrain smoothly, without making you feel shaky. Another plus point here is that the wheels contain ball-bearings that keep them from getting flat ever. Speaking of performance then the unit locks a 159cc engine that is strong enough to clear the patch in a single swipe; even if the patch has the thickest or tallest grass-grown there.
If you want to cut grass at different heights, in different parts of your yard, you can use the spindle height adjustment feature. Just adjust the height of the spindles and get the grass cut to your most desired length. While examining spindles, one thing which attracted me is the unique deflector plate that keeps the grass clippings, rocks, debris, and other stuff from getting inside the unit during operation. It, in turn, extends the life of the device and trimmer line.
- Professional build and performance
- Safety featuresy
- Perfect to be used over large lawns
- Can tackle overgrown and thickest vegetations
- Can reach tricky edges
- Collapsible handles
- Reasonably priced
- Can’t cut moist grass
I found the handlebars attached to the main unit angled and highly comfortable. Due to being curved around, the vibrations originating from the engine dissipate incredibly, making you feel nearly zero vibrations. Since they are collapsible, it mitigates storing the device after use. The only downside I found is that the string line is not that effective towards wet turf.
4. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Lawn Mower, String Trimmer, and Edger
If you are the one who doesn’t want to contaminate your garden’s air with thick fumes or disturb your neighbours with loud noises, this battery-powered walk behind string trimmer will suit you best. Like other battery-powered string trimmers, it can cover only a small-sized yard as you have to recharge the battery after every hour. Still, it’s way more economical and eco-friendly than its gas counterparts.
Thankfully, the machine comes with two batteries so you can put one on a charge while using the other for non-stop running. It’s a combination tool that enables you not only to trim the overgrown weeds and grass but also to let you mow the foliage and edge the garden beds and sidewalks.
To enhance user experience, many advanced and smart features are added to the design. For example, the handles can be adjusted as per your height and at the same time, with the pivoting handle, you can reach tighter corners and tricky edges effortlessly. Similarly, the machine features an automatic feed spool mechanism to save you from the hassle of feeding its .065″ trimmer line.
- Smart features to enhance user experience
- Pivotal and adjustable handle
- Automatic feed spool mechanism
- Comes with two batteries
- More economical and eco-friendly option
- 3-in-1 tool
- Ideal for small yards with limited trimming needs
- Safety switch
- Not for large yards with heavy-duty trimming needs
Most importantly, it’s nearly the lightest wheeled string trimmer (weighs only 9.9 lbs). Likewise, it features a very small footprint which makes storing the unit a real breeze. Still, the thing you need to remember is that it’s a battery-powered device and I can’t recommend it to anyone having a giant yard (more than 750 square feet) or the thickest vegetation to chop down.
5. Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SWST 4317 Southland 2 Cycle Wheeled String Trimmer
Most handheld garden equipment is manufactured on the layout of combination tools but this wheeled string trimmer is an exception here. This walk behind string trimmer is a hybrid, 3-in-1 tool that allows you to enjoy multiple gardening chores including edging, trimming, and mowing. However, the manufacturer has developed it to target the user with limited trimming needs or to trim small grass.
You can’t expect this combination wheeled trimmer to chop down the thick and dense foliage, even if it’s a gas-powered tool. However, on trying it over the short foliage, I found the performance very impressive as it not only imparts sleek and even cuts but also does so in a single swipe. That’s the very reason why experts highly recommend this trimmer to homeowners.
It also weighs extremely lighter than its other gas-powered counterparts which is surely a thing you find rarely. Even an eight-year-old kid can operate it without getting fatigued. The handles attached to the main unit can also be adjusted which means you can use the machine regardless of your height and posture. I also like the way this machine consumes less fuel and clears a huge patch while being highly economical.
Near me, the selling feature of this tool is its adjustable trimmer head that can be rotated up to 30°. Due to being adjoined to the unit through a pivotal junction, you can rotate the cutting head to any specific angle alongside your garden beds, fences, or other obstacles. One thing that’s worth mentioning here is that the unit drinks a mixture of fuel – a mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle oil. If you don’t get the precise fuel, the machine and engine might break down in less than a season.
- 3-in-1 combination tool
- Edger + trimmer + mower
- Consumes less fuel
- Perfect to cut short and thin grass
- Adjustable handle height
- Lightweight
- Simple to operate and assemble
- Ideal for small-sized yard/ light-duty trimming
- Not for trimming dense foliage
Unlike other models of the list, it also requires a little assembly but with the help of easy instructions, putting the unit together was not a challenge to me. All in all, this southland outdoor wheeled string trimmer is perfect for all those folks looking for a simple combination tool to take care of their small-sized yard.
6. Greenworks 40v 17 inch Cordless Mower, String Trimmer
This GreenWorks cordless string trimmer is famous for its versatility as you can use it as both a trimmer and a mower. Similarly, to make this trimmer fit all types of yard work and trimming jobs of all levels, this machine comes with an adjustable decker. You can adjust the height on one of the five positions which not only ensure super desirable cuts but also handle uneven terrain easily.
Within the main unit, a 4aH lithium-ion battery is installed that delivers power to its 40V motor. Despite such a heavy build, the trimmer weighs extremely lower than other cordless grass trimmers – only forty pounds. While trying this product, I observed that when its 4ah battery is charged fully, it can tackle an area of about ⅓ acre without showing any power or torque fluctuations.
However, the battery can run out before the trimmer cleans one-third of an acre, in case the turfgrass is extremely thick, or moist. Since it’s a combination gardening tool, the grass clippings you’ve cut are mowed and sliced down into smaller pieces, simultaneously. The thing which I like here most is its bagger feature which enables you to attach the bag to the mower so you won’t have to collect clippings afterwards.
- Combination t
- Eco-friendly battery-powered tool
- Quiet and fume-free
- Trimmer + mulcher + bagger
- Easy to manoeuvre and use
- Adjustable deck height
- Ideal for small yards with medium-duty trimming needs
- Inadequate for large yards
When done with the trimming, all you’d need to do is detach the bagger and dispose of it in the compost bin. The same saves you from shelling out extra dollars for yard-waste disposal – the main reason why it’s one of the most affordable walk-behind string trimmers for small yards.
7. SuperHandy String Trimmer Walk Behind 21″ Inch Line Cutting Diameter
Mostly the wheeled gas-powered string trimmers fall in high price ranges due to their robust build and outstanding performance. However, this model of Super Handy company is here to change the norms as it’s nearly the most affordable gas-powered string trimmer out there. Whether your lawn is stuffed with overgrown bushes or tough weeds, this machine is capable of running at the highest speeds, leaving them neat and clean terrain behind.
Since it’s a professional lawn trimmer, we can’t expect it to come in a small size or with no vibrations at all. Still, the manufacturer added a superb-quality deck with an interesting design, which in turn minimised the extent of vibrations a lot. The maximum speed you can enjoy with this trimmer is 3600 RPMs which is only due to the incredible power outputs generated by its 149cc gas engine.
Not only is its build quality sturdy but the deck design is also incredible which enables users to reach even the tighter ends of the yard, seamlessly. You can easily trim unnecessary vegetation around fences, bush foundation, and garden beds with no hassle. The whole unit is wheeled over two high-wheels so you could navigate the machine, regardless of the type of terrain and lawn you are working on.
- Very powerful, sturdy, and durable
- Versatile
- Rust Proof finish enduring weather extremes
- All-terrain wheels
- Superfast trimmer
- Space efficient and reach tighter corners
- Easy to use
- Adjustable handlebars
- Noisy
The handlebars given in the unit are also foldable so you can adjust the height of the trimmer as per your height. To prevent the machine from weather and environmental damage, a rustproof powder finish is added. In a nutshell, this Super handy string trimmer is for both home and commercial use and can tackle so many types of yardworks including field brush, gardening, forestry, landscaping, and many others.
Buyer’s guide
Buying the best walk behind string trimmer should be a well-thought-off decision as, upon it, the overall curb appeal of your lawn depends. However, since the market is full of interesting machines, where everyone is offering quality performance, choosing the best one out of this ocean of trimmers is a time-consuming and tiresome job. However considering these aspects, while purchasing your walk behind string trimmers, can be helpful in this respect.
Which type of string trimmer will be best for you?
Mainly, three types of string trimmers are available to purchase; electric, gas, and battery-powered ones. Electric trimmers are more eco-friendly, easy to handle, and quiet than gas-powered trimmers but they offer limited performance. You can’t expect them to cut extremely overgrown or thickest vegetation. Instead, they are good for medium-duty trimming chores. Also, electric trimmers come with cord length limitations.
On the other hand, gas-powered string trimmers are best for heavy-duty trimming where you need to deal with monster grass, thick bushes, and woody weeds. However, mostly gas-powered string trimmers are built to last which means they comprise heavy construction which makes them a little difficult to manoeuvre. At the same time, gas-powered trimmers give off noise, vibrations, and fumes.
If you are looking for a lightweight, affordable, and most straightforward walk behind string trimmers, you should go with cordless or battery-powered trimmers. This equipment is best to be purchased for a lawn that requires occasional trimming since it can tackle only light-duty cutting tasks. However, they are the quietest, lightest, and most cost-effective products you can purchase as a homeowner.
FAQs
Our favourites
Before wrapping up, have a look at our favourites, the top three walk-behind string trimmers that we found perfect in almost all aspects.
- BLACK+DECKER 4-Cycle Gas Powered 22-Inch Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer due to its giant, all-terrain high wheels, smooth recoil start, and heavy-duty trimming capabilities.
- Craftsman 25A-262J793 Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer due to its ability to trim thickest weeds, high wheels, Innovative deck design, and powerful engine.
- Remington RM1159 159cc 4-Cycle Gas Powered Walk-Behind High-Wheeled String Trimmer due to its professional-grade build and performance, collapsible handlebars, and reasonable price.