String trimmers work great for cleaning up the weeds around your yard. There are primarily two types of string trimmers. The first category includes all types of electric models, which includes both corded and uncorded models. Uncorded models are more commonly known as battery operated. The second category includes gas modeled trimmers. Both categories are available in curved shaft or straight shaft models.
Soooo…. which one is best for you?????
There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of string trimmers. Let’s get started so you can determine which category is best for your needs.
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Electric String Trimmers
Corded electric String Trimmers
Electric string trimmers are great for small areas that are close to a electric plug. They aren’t quite as powerful as gas models so they are going to work best on lighter weeds, like the ones you find around your driveway and flower beds. Taller and heavier duty weeds are best left up to a gas powered string trimmer.
A corded electric string trimmer will need to be plugged in, so that does limit you to being within an extension cords length of an electrical outlet. While dragging an extension cord around with you may be a disadvantage, there are many advantages to an electric string trimmer that make it worth it.
- they are great for small spaces
- electric string trimmers are easy to start
- just plug it in and you are ready to go
- there are no nasty fumes because there is no gas or oil to mix
- they are very lightweight
- they are more economical
- less expensive to buy
- less expensive to operate
- low maintenance
- there is not much on them to go wrong
- no winter storage prep necessary
Cordless String Trimmers
Cordless string trimmers are more commonly referred to as battery operated string trimmers. They are best suited for smaller jobs. Battery powered string trimmers give you cord free mobility. You don’t have to haul a cord around with you and you don’t have to mix gas and oil. A battery operated string trimmer will give you a greater range than a corded model.
A battery operated string trimmer will be a little heavier and they only have a run time of about 30 minutes before the battery will need to be recharged. Recharging the battery can take a while so it is best to buy a second battery so that if you run out of charge and have not completed your project you can just pop on another battery.
As with corded-electric trimmers, battery operated string trimmers that have a top mounted motor will be better balanced. This makes them easier to handle than those which have the motor closer to the cutting line.
Gas Powered String Trimmers
Gas powered trimmers are a better choice for large areas of tall grasses and weeds. Typically, gas powered string trimmers are more powerful and are normally more effective at tackling taller grasses and heavier duty weeds. However, while these are advantages, there are some disadvantages too.
Some of the advantages of gas powered string trimmers are:
- more powerful
- easier portability
- can accept different size line with larger diameters
- dual trimmer heads cut faster
- great for big yards
Some disadvantages are:
- more expensive
- many require hearing protection
- regular maintenance is required
- you might have gas fumes
Straight vs Curved Shaft Trimmer
The shaft, sometimes called a shank, can either be straight or curved. They each provide their own set of benefits.
The shaft transfers power from the engine or motor to the lines that do the cutting. Models with a straight shaft offer a longer reach. They tend to be better for tall users and for reaching beneath bushes and shrubs. Models with a curved shaft tend to be lighter and easier to handle.
Advantages of a Straight Shaft String Trimmer
- Straight shaft trimmers are considered to be more reliable than curved shaft models because the drive cable in a curved shaft model has to curve, which can result in cable breakage over time.
- tend to provide better weight balance and longer drive shaft life
- they provide safer operation by keeping the head farther away
- longer straight shafts are ideal for trimming under things like hedges, fences and bushes.
- great for trimming around flower beds and other squared off areas
Advantages of a Curved Shaft String Trimmer
- easier to maneuver
- often weigh less for more comfortable use
- are a bit more balanced and allow for a more comfortable cutting position for the user
- curved shafts use a flexible-cable drive shaft that provides power to the head
- generally require a lower initial investment
String Trimmer Safety
When using a string trimmer be sure to keep safety in mind. String trimmers may not look that intimidating, but the speed of that string spinning around can cause some real damage. It can easily strip bark from a tree and can even damage young saplings. When you hit something, the debris goes flying and tosses it into the air. You don’t want to be in the way of that without some protection.
That is why it is important to wear the proper clothing while using your string trimmer. While it may be a little uncomfortable, wearing long pants and sturdy shoes is imperative. You want protection from any flying debris. Be sure to also wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.
If vibration bothers you or if you tend to blister, wearing heavy duty gloves is a good idea. Gloves will also protect your hands from flying debris.
String trimmers can be quite loud, so ear protection is also important. We recommend either wearing ear plugs or ear muffs to protect your ears.
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