Weed eaters, also known as string trimmers, weed whackers, weed whip, or just trimmers, are gardening tools that give the homeowner or gardener the ability to keep their lawn or garden looking great. These tools are convenient when trying to keep your lawn looking great. With these machines, you can perform a quick and professional-looking trim on your garden. Lawnmowers are great for mowing the yard, but they cannot reach the places a weed eater can reach.
With these advantages in mind, it isn’t surprising that more people are buying trimmers. You might be thinking of getting one yourself. Before you go ahead and buy, you must consider several factors. We used these factors to select ten of the best weed eaters under $100/$200 on the market right now. Despite a large number of manufacturers and the hundreds of models on the market, you can make the right choice by following our review and buying guide.
First, let’s consider some of the types of weed eaters on the market today.
Types of Weed Eaters
Weed eaters come in three main types. These are gas-powered weed eater, corded electric weed eater, and cordless or battery-powered weed eater.
Gas-Powered Weed Eater
The gas-powered weed eater is the oldest type of weed eater, as it has been around for a long time. These trimmers have been used for years, even before other types of weed eaters were invented.
The gas-powered weed eater, as the name implies, uses gas or a mixture of gas and oil.
These machines also come in two types. There are two-stroke and four-stroke options. The first type, the two-stroke option, is powered by a mixture of oil and gas. However, the second option uses only gas.
There are several reasons why folks opt for gas-powered weed eaters. For one, they are very powerful. They generally generate more power than the other types of weed eaters. Additionally, they are flexible and can be carried around. They might be heavy, but they offer mobility since they don’t come with a cord. As long as there is fuel in the tank, you can keep using them.
To match their powerful interior, they have a sturdy and durable construction. They are excellent for heavy-duty cutting and large gardens. These machines also come with engines that are compatible with attachments.
- Powerful performance: these machines are the most powerful type of weed eaters on the market.
- Longer runtime: Gas-powered trimmers are efficient and last for a long time. As long as there is fuel in the tank, and it is in good condition, it will keep on working.
- Portable: In this case, the portability isn’t a function of size or weight; instead, it is due to the cordless nature. You can carry them almost anywhere you want.
- Maintenance-intensive: Gas-powered weed eaters need more maintenance than the other types of weed eaters. The engine requires oil changes, the spark plugs need to be changed, and several other things have to be done.
- Noisy and non-environmentally friendly: As it is gas-powered, it emits fumes due to the combustion of fuel. Furthermore, they produce quite a great deal of noise during operation.
Corded Electric Weed Eater
As the name implies, the corded electric weed eater runs on electric power. If you have a small garden and you have a socket nearby, then you might opt for this model.
They have to be plugged into a power source to operate. Without an electrical outlet, you will not be able to use them.
Since they are corded, they are usually lighter than the other types of weed eaters. Since there is no large, heavy engine, you can carry them around with ease.
Corded Electric weed eaters are also usually very quiet while in operation. Thus, you can use them without wearing earmuffs.
As they run on electricity and do not combust fuel, they are emission-free.
The downside of these models is that they need electricity to run, and their mobility is limited.
- Unlimited runtime: As long as it is plugged in, a corded electric weed eater will continue running. You can, therefore, use it for as long as possible.
- Easy to Start: Unlike a gas-powered weed eater that you need to pull a cord before starting it, a corded weed eater can be started by pressing a button.
- Quiet: As mentioned earlier, it delivers quiet performance.
- Low maintenance: It doesn’t require plenty of maintenance.
- Limited Mobility: The cord gets in the way of your work. Furthermore, the distance you can trim it depends on the length of the cable.
Battery-Powered Weed Eater
The battery-powered weed eaters are a combination of gas-powered and corded weed eaters. They offer mobility and do not emit fumes. These models run on batteries, offer quiet performance and are easy to start.
However, since they are battery operated, they have limited runtime, and since they have to be recharged when low, they have more extended downtimes.
- Portable: Since they lack a cord, they can be carried around with ease.
- Zero emissions: These models do not generate any emissions.
- Low battery runtimes: Batteries do not last long before requiring recharging
Now, let us consider ten of the best cheap weed eaters under $100/$200
Best Weed Eaters 2024 (Under $100)
1. BLACK+DECKER LST140C Budget-Weed Eater
Editor’s Rating:
Design
Coming in first place on this list is the BLACK+DECKER LST140C. It is a lightweight option that allows you to use it for extended periods without much discomfort. It also features a telescopic handle that will enable you to reach tough spots easily.
It weighs just 6.4 pounds; hence, you can maneuver it across the garden without feeling fatigued. Additionally, the handle can be adjusted to ensure a more comfortable grip angle. You can also adjust the length of the shaft via loosening a knob.
The handles are made from plastic and offer excellent grip.
It is simple to handle, which is essential for this type of tool. Weed whackers do not need to be complex before they can be used.
Performance
The BLACK+DECKER LST140C is a quick and relatively powerful tool. It offers 6500 rotations per minute. Therefore, you can be sure of fast work. Furthermore, there is a hedging function that adds utility to the tool.
Aside from the excellent performance, it has a relatively powerful battery. The battery offers you thirty minutes of non-stop use, which is honestly surprising considering the low price. You, therefore, do not have to recharge while working.
- Plenty of power for a small weed eater
- Great for heavy weeds
- The telescopic handle offers plenty of reach
- Versatile
- String feed is problematic for long weeds
2. Black+Decker LST300
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the second BLACK+DECKER machine on this list and for a good reason.
It is a cordless trimmer that is perfect for your small garden. It is lightweight and will be used for extended periods without causing fatigue. In many ways, it is similar to the BLACK+DECKER reviewed above.
It comes with a handle and guard, with the length of the shaft and angle completely adjustable.
Just as the option reviewed above, it can be converted into a hedger to give you even cleaner trims. Your walkways are thus cared for and given a beautiful look they so deserve.
Performance
As it is a cordless device, it comes with quiet performance; thus, you won’t keep the neighbors irritated.
Since the BLACK+DECKER LST300 comes at a low price, you should not expect it to deliver powerful performances like more expensive options. It offers decent performance and is designed to trim the grass after you have mowed. Hence, it isn’t meant for heavy weeds. It also can be used in edging your sidewalks and flower beds.
Using the edging mode is straightforward and easy to do. To use the edging mode, all you need to do is unlock the shaft, turn it, and lock it again. The whole process can be done in less than a minute.
Battery performance isn’t as excellent at that on some of the others on this list; however, the 2.0A 20V battery offers decent runtime.
Some of the drawbacks of this tool include a long charge time and low runtime.
- Cheap option
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Noiseless performance
- Not for heavy-duty jobs
- Low runtime and long charge time
3. Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater
Editor’s Rating:
Performance
Are you tired of using gas trimmers? If so, we believe that you will welcome the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater with arms wide open. With this model, there is no need for mixing gas and oil or using spark plugs. You can also say goodbye to the difficult start synonymous with gas weed eaters. The Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater comes with a start button to start the machine.
It should be noted that the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater works as a trimmer and edger only. Therefore, you should not treat it as a mini-mower. It cannot handle heavy weeds.
Battery
The battery of the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater takes approximately 5 hours to charge. While this is rather lengthy, the discomfort is cushioned by the addition of a second battery by the manufacturer. Thus, while you use one to work, you can charge the other. With this feature, you have plenty of juice for trimming or edging your garden.
Other Features
In addition to the extra battery, WORX has developed another system to improve battery life. There is a line feeding system that can be activated by pressing a button.
Aside from the line feeding system, the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater comes with rubber wheels that add stability and help you to achieve an even cleaner cut.
Design
It is interesting that despite the features added, the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater is still lightweight. All these features, coupled with the adjustable head, height, and handle, makes the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater one of the best cheap weedeaters under $100 on the market today.
If you have a small yard or garden that you want to keep trim and tidy, then the Worx WG163.9 Weed-Eater is an excellent tool to buy.
- Offers excellent value for money
- Lightweight option
- Comes with a pair of interchangeable batteries
- Low battery runtime
- Cannot handle heavy weeds
4. Homelite ZR33600
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Homelite ZR33600 comes in a typical weedeater design. It weighs 14 pounds, which is relatively lightweight for a gas-powered option. Therefore, the weight makes it quite easy to move around without getting tired. It also comes in a compact size that allows for easy storage. It will not take up plenty of space in your storage closet.
The shaft is medium-sized; however, it is long enough to let you trim the weed while you are standing. It also enables you to reach any short grass and weeds without having to bend. With the curved shaft, you can reach hard-to-reach weeds under shrubs.
Performance and power
A 26cc Homelite engine powers the Homelite ZR33600. This type of engine makes the Homelite ZR33600 environmentally friendly. It ensures that the weed eater produces low emissions. If you want a powerful option but are concerned about the environment, then this weed eater is an excellent option. Aside from the low emission, the machine is noiseless and will not alert everyone in the neighborhood that you are working.
Starting the Homelite ZR33600 is straightforward and easy. It comes with a clutch that helps you in starting the tool without using plenty of force.
Unlike other options we reviewed, the Homelite ZR33600 can cut heavy and tall weeds.
It features a 17″ cutting width that ensures plenty of coverage at a go.
- Quick-fire carburetor
- 17″ cutting width
- Low price
- Relatively quiet performance for a gas-powered option
- Powerful performance
- Stalling
- Bump head dispenses trimmer line inconsistently
- Low life expectancy
5. Earthwise CST00012
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Earthwise CST00012 is lightweight and easy to move around. It offers cordless freedom for users. Since it is cordless, it comes with Ni-cad batteries that mean you don’t need a cable to an extension cord for powering the machine. You can carry it wherever you need it.
One worry with corded weed eaters is that you have to worry about adding more lines as you use the machine. However, with the Earthwise CST00012, you do not have to worry about that. It comes with an auto line feed. Hence, all you are concerned with is trimming. There is no need for sporadically stopping and starting, which can be very frustrating.
Performance
Firstly, it should be noted that Earthwise CST00012 is not made for commercial applications. Therefore, if you are a landscaping expert or working in related professional fields, you might have to look elsewhere. However, if your project is light duty, you will enjoy using the model.
It offers decent performance that delivers excellent value for money. You do not have to spend money on gas and other related stuff.
The weedeater uses auto-feed in extending the line; therefore, you do not need bumping.
Battery
The Ni-CAD batteries in the Earthwise CST00012 are not as powerful as the lithium-ion batteries on other products. On a full charge, the battery lasts for about 20 minutes. Hence, you will likely need an extra battery. The benefit of these batteries over other types is that it is cheaper to obtain.
Adjustments
We were pleasantly surprised that this inexpensive tool offered such a high number of adjustments. The head can be adjusted into three positions, and the handle can be set to several angles.
Additionally, the shaft of the Earthwise CST00012 is adjustable. Thus, you can set the height you desire.
- Affordable
- Lightweight and straightforward to use
- Offers several adjustments
- Great for only light-duty applications
- Uncomfortable height for tall people
Best Weed Eaters 2024 (Under $200)
6. DeWalt DCST920P1 String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Performance
The DEWALT DCST920P1 is an exception in the world of electric motor trimmers. Most of the electric weed eaters on the market come with motors that offer only decent cutting performance. The engine on this model is highly capable of working through large and heavy weeds with relative ease. One reason for the impressive power is the brushless nature of the motor.
Thus, it is a better option than other counterparts, especially if you are looking for electric trimmers.
Aside from the powerful motor, one of the unique features of the DEWALT DCST920P1 is the variable speed trigger that it comes with. This feature means users have more control and customization options than with the average weed eater.
By using this feature, you can control the number of rotations per minute. By gaining more control over the trimming process, you will likely achieve better results.
Design
The DEWALT DCST920P1 might be a powerful tool, but it is lighter than the other machines that offer similar powerful performances. This lightweight nature means you are not fatigued while using the machine.
It comes with a small guard that offers excellent visibility. As a result, you can see where you are cutting.
Other features
The trimmer comes with plenty of more torque than others on this LIST. It also offers a dual line. Hence, you can rest assured that your bump feeds will be efficient and come with wide clearance. With a single pass, you can cover a wide area.
Battery
The DEWALT DCST920P1 features a Li-ion 20V battery right from the manufacturer. The battery is interchangeable and can even be used with other machines from Dewalt. Furthermore, if it needs to be replaced, it is comforting knowing that the battery is readily available.
- Easy to start and use
- The grip is comfortable
- Powerful motor
- Poor battery life
- Difficult edging
7. Hitachi CG23ECPSL
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Hitachi CG23ECPSL is an impressively designed weed eater that comes with arguably the most comfortable design you can find on a weed eater.
The main feature that makes it so comfortable is the extra-long shaft. The shaft is almost 70″ longer than its closest competitor. Therefore, it makes it super-easy to reach corners and places that your average weed eater cannot get to. Aside from allowing you to reach hard-to-reach areas, the long handle ensures that fatigue is reduced. You will not have an achy back after work. It also features a comfortable grip.
This shaft is made of solid steel, unlike the plastic shaft found on others.
Overall, the construction is sturdy and durable. It is very comfortable and can be operated with one hand.
Performance
While the Hitachi CG23ECPSL shines in terms of design, it is also impressive in terms of performance.
It comes with a 22.5 c gas-powered engine that delivers power comparable to that of a commercial weed eater. As a 2-cycle engine, emission levels are relatively low.
From our testing and review of this and other products, we believe that only a few weed eaters offer a nice balance of weight and power performance found on the Hitachi CG23ECPSL. Despite all the power at its disposal, it weighs just 10 pounds.
Other features
The Hitachi CG23ECPSL has a cutting width of 15″, which we discovered is smaller than many weed eaters. Therefore, if cutting time is essential to you, you should opt for a weed eater with a bigger cutting width.
It is a loud machine, and you will likely require earmuffs to protect your hearing during operation.
While noise levels are disappointing, we were immensely pleased by the low level of vibration experienced during our testing. Due to the low vibration levels, you are less likely to get tired during use.
It is a safe weed eater as well since it comes with a debris shield.
The string measures 13 feet, which is rather short. However, during our testing, we observed that the string is thick; hence, it lasts longer than other strings.
Warranty
The Hitachi CG23ECPSL offers a whopping seven years of warranty! The company also provides a lifetime guarantee on trimmers with solid steel shafts.
- Long and handy driveshaft
- Powerful performance
- Anti-vibration system
- Short string
- Requires mixing gas and fuel
8. Black and Decker LST136
Editor’s Rating:
Design
With the battery installed, the Black & Decker LST136 weighs just 7.8 pounds. The weight is standard, at least concerning others on the market. As a battery-powered weed eater, it is easy to move around the garden.
It comes with an adjustable shaft. Hence, you can set the height to a level you are comfortable with. With a proper height comes easier use. Additionally, the head of this trimmer is rotatable, which allows you to change it into an edger.
Performance
Performance is overall satisfactory with the trimmer offering decent power. The built-in guide will assist you in keeping the edging straight, thus reducing the requirement for several tools.
Power
The Black & Decker LST136 uses a 40-volt lithium-ion battery. The battery is lightweight and lasts for up to 30 minutes, duration mostly uncommon among trimmers of this kind. Recharging is also impressive, with the battery recharging to 100% in just an hour.
The battery is interchangeable; hence, while using one, you can charge the other.
Other features
The cutting speed on this weed eater is entirely adjustable. This feature allows the user to conserve power or boosts the cutting speed of the machine.
Additionally, the Black & Decker LST136 comes with an auto line feed. This feature means that you don’t have to bump the trimmer to increase the line. As soon as the machine meets obstacles, the line advances. Replacing or rewinding the line is straightforward, and even if there is a problem, it can be solved by consulting the easy to read and understand manual.
- Adjustable power output
- Relatively good battery life
- Fast charging
- Maximum power isn’t good for heavy weeds
9. Poulan Pro 967105301
Editor’s Rating:
Power
The Poulan Pro 967105301 is powered by a 25cc 2-cycle engine that offers optimal performance. The motor is easy to get running as it comes with a spring starter, among other things. Additionally, it has an efficient delivery system that ensures high cutting power. You can also use various attachments on the engine without any severe effects on its performance.
It has a width of 17″. Thus, even at a go, it can cut a wide area. To ensure top efficiency, it is designed with a dual-line.
Design
The Poulan Pro 967105301 weighs 14 pounds, which makes cutting easy on your limbs. With a compact design, it is easy to stow away.
The shaft is not as long as several others on this list as it comes with a 40″ length. While this might be too short for tall folks, it is adequate for people of ordinary height and will allow you to reach hard-to-reach areas with ease.
- Powerful engine
- Highly durable
- Relatively quiet operation
- No shoulder strap
- Relatively heavy
10. Greenworks 21362
Editor’s Rating:
Power
The brushless motor found in the engine of this model makes it one of the most powerful weed eaters on the market. As a brushless motor, it offers you impressive power and torque, quiet performance, and a longer lifespan.
As an electric weed wacker, it is less noisy than the typical gas-powered models. However, it feels and performs like a gas-powered weed eater.
Design
Unlike most of the weed eaters on this list, the Greenworks 21362 is rather heavy. Recognizing this, the manufacturers made it well-balanced and provided a shoulder strap that allows you to carry it relatively conveniently.
Battery
The battery justifies the heavyweight of this model. It is big, but it delivers up to one hour of use! Additionally, it comes with indicators that allow you to know the charge level of the machine. Surprisingly, this powerful battery charges in less than two hours.
Adjustments
The head of the machine cannot be rotated; hence, you will have to rotate the whole trimmer. This makes it rather challenging to edge during cutting.
- Powerful trimmer
- Compatible with attachments
- Great for heavy-duty jobs
- Heavy