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If you care about clean lawn lines and efficient backyard upkeep, a string trimmer with edger capability can save time and improve results. These combo tools let you tackle tall grass and then flip or reposition to cut crisp edges along sidewalks, driveways, and garden beds. In this guide we shortlisted seven top options built for common home and small-property needs and tested them conceptually against the most important garden-use factors. We evaluate cutting performance, edging accuracy, durability, and handling so you can pick the best trimmer-with-edger for your yard. Read on for what matters in real mowing and edging situations and why each design choice affects the finished look of your lawn.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | CRAFTSMAN V20 13 in. Cordless String Trimmer and Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in Cordless String Trimmer and Edger (LST136) with Battery and Charger |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12" Cordless String Trimmer and Edger (LST300) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | HortiHub 21V Cordless String Trimmer with 2.0Ah Battery (12-inch) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | NEO-TEC 4‑in‑1 26cc Gas Multi‑Tool: String Trimmer, Edger, Hedge Trimmer, Brush Cutter |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | WORX 20V 12" 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger (WG163) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | WORX WG928 20V 12" Cordless Trimmer & 360 CFM Leaf Blower Kit |  |
CRAFTSMAN V20 13 in. Cordless String Trimmer and Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 13 inches |
| Number of Batteries | 1 (included) |
| Battery Average Life | 63 minutes |
The CRAFTSMAN V20 13-inch string trimmer and edger kit is a compact, performance-focused tool for routine lawn-edge and trimming tasks. It combines a 4.0Ah V20 battery and two-speed motor to let you choose higher power for thick grass or lower speed for longer runtime, and the Turn-To-Edge design converts the unit to an edger without extra tools. In use the 13-inch cutting swath covers a lot of ground per pass on small to medium yards, and the adjustable handle helps maintain a comfortable posture during longer sessions. Notable features include the included battery and charger, an auto-feed spool with 0.065-inch line, and a manufacturer-stated runtime of up to 63 minutes on low speed. This model leans on a brushed motor platform, so it does not offer the higher efficiency or longer motor life of brushless designs, and heavy-duty or commercial clearing will push its limits. For homeowners who want a lightweight, easy-to-use cordless trimmer that balances runtime and cutting ability, it is a practical choice; those needing maximum durability or brushless power may prefer a different model.
Best for: Gardeners who prioritize strong cutting performance in a lightweight cordless package and want the flexibility to trade between power and runtime for routine yard maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Do not choose this if you need a commercial-grade or heavy brush-clearing tool or if you require the greater efficiency and lifespan of a brushless motor.
- Included 4.0Ah V20 battery and charger provide ready-to-use runtime up to 63 minutes on low speed
- 13-inch cutting swath covers wider area per pass, reducing time on small to medium lawns
- Two-speed control lets you prioritize power for thick grass or extend runtime for light trimming
- Turn-To-Edge functionality converts the trimmer into an edger without extra attachments
- Uses a brushed motor rather than brushless, which may reduce long-term efficiency and durability
- Line diameter is 0.065 in, which is thinner than heavier-duty trimmers and can struggle with very thick growth
Verdict: A lightweight, performance-oriented cordless trimmer kit that delivers a wide 13-inch swath and flexible two-speed operation for efficient small to medium yard work.
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in Cordless String Trimmer and Edger (LST136) with Battery and Charger
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 13 inches |
| Speed | 8500 rpm |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion (included) |
The BLACK+DECKER LST136 is a battery-powered 13-inch string trimmer that doubles as an edger for common yard maintenance around a typical home. It is powered by a 40V Max lithium-ion battery with a state-of-charge indicator and a fast charger so you can gauge runtime and restore power in roughly two hours. The POWERDRIVE transmission and 8500 rpm top speed give it enough punch to cut through thicker weeds, while the PowerCommand dial lets you prioritize torque or runtime depending on the job. The Automatic Feed Spool reduces interruptions by advancing line as needed without bumping. Practical touches like an adjustable telescoping shaft, soft-grip handle, and included auxiliary handle improve comfort for longer sessions. Converting to an edger is quick, making boundary cleanup easier after trimming. Limitations are typical of battery trimmers: runtime depends on battery capacity and heavy, continuous use will need recharge or a spare battery, and it is best for homeowner yards rather than commercial heavy-duty jobs.
Best for: Homeowners who want a versatile, cordless trimmer that handles routine lawn edging and light-to-medium weed cutting with user-friendly controls and easy conversion between trimmer and edger.
Less Ideal for: People who need a high-hour commercial tool or who regularly tackle very large properties where long continuous runtime and industrial power are required.
- Includes 40V Max lithium-ion battery with state-of-charge indicator and fast charger for quick turnaround
- PowerCommand dial to choose higher power or longer runtime for different yard tasks
- Automatic Feed Spool supplies line as needed without bumping
- Converts quickly from trimmer to edger for versatile edge cleanup
- Adjustable telescoping shaft and soft-grip handle improve comfort during use
- Battery runtime is limited for extended heavy-duty work and may require a spare battery
- Not intended for commercial or continuous professional use
Verdict: A comfortable, easy-to-use cordless trimmer/edger kit that balances power and convenience for typical homeowner yard maintenance.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12" Cordless String Trimmer and Edger (LST300)
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 12 inches |
| Speed | 6200 rpm |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion (included) |
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is a compact, battery-powered 2-in-1 string trimmer and wheeled edger designed for routine yard maintenance and edging tasks. It uses a 20V Powerconnect lithium-ion battery (included) and a PowerDrive transmission to deliver higher torque at the cutting head, while a 12-inch cutting swath makes it easy to navigate around garden beds and sidewalks. The automatic feed spool keeps line length correct without bumping, and adjustable height plus a textured handle improves comfort for longer sessions. Because it is cordless and lightweight it starts quietly and avoids the fuss of gas tools, and the included wall-mountable charger simplifies storage. Expect solid performance on standard grass and moderate overgrowth; however the 12-inch head and single included 2.0 Ah battery limit runtime and may require slower passes or a second battery for large yards or very thick weeds. For homeowners focused on convenience and everyday trimming, this model balances ease of use with enough cutting power for typical light-to-moderate jobs.
Best for: Homeowners who want an easy-to-use, low-noise cordless trimmer for regular lawn touch-ups and clean edging around sidewalks and beds and who value simplicity and proven performance.
Less Ideal for: Those with several acres, dense brush, or frequent heavy clearing needs should look at higher-voltage cordless or gas-powered trimmers instead.
- Converts quickly between string trimmer and wheeled edger for two common tasks
- Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) keeps line fed without bumping
- PowerDrive transmission increases torque for stronger cutting at the head
- Lightweight with adjustable handle and height for comfortable use
- Includes 20V lithium-ion battery and charger so it is ready to use out of the box
- 12-inch cutting swath and single 2.0 Ah battery limit runtime and may be slow on large yards or very thick weeds
- Not suited for heavy-duty brush cutting compared with more powerful gas or higher-voltage cordless models
Verdict: A lightweight, easy-to-use 2-in-1 cordless trimmer that is ideal for everyday light-to-moderate lawn trimming and edging tasks.
HortiHub 21V Cordless String Trimmer with 2.0Ah Battery (12-inch)
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 12 inches |
| Speed | 9000 rpm |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion (included) |
| Battery Average Life | 15 minutes |
This HortiHub cordless string trimmer is built for basic lawn upkeep and small yards. It uses a 21V motor that spins the head up to 9000 RPM and a 12-inch cutting swath to speed through edges and routine trimming. The included 2.0Ah battery and charger provide roughly 15 minutes of runtime, enough for spot jobs or finishing after a mower. Practical touches include an automatic line-feed system to reduce stops for manual bumping, tool-free assembly, an adjustable handle for comfort, and included safety goggles and gloves. Because it is lightweight and low-noise it is easy to maneuver and suitable for beginners or users who need a less tiring, neighbor-friendly tool. The main limitation is the short single-battery runtime and modest power level, so it is not meant for extended sessions, dense woody brush, or heavy-duty clearing. For routine edging, trimming around beds, and maintaining small lawns, it delivers simple, affordable performance with minimal setup.
Best for: Buyers who want an inexpensive, easy-to-use cordless trimmer for routine yard maintenance, edging, and quick touch-ups around a small to medium lawn.
Less Ideal for: Owners with large properties, heavy brush, or frequent long trimming sessions should look at higher-voltage trimmers with larger or multiple batteries.
- 12-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass for faster edging and trimming
- Automatic line-feed system reduces interruptions to reload line during use
- Lightweight and adjustable handle improves maneuverability and reduces fatigue
- Includes battery, charger, safety goggles, gloves, and extra spools for out-of-the-box use
- Single 2.0Ah battery yields only about 15 minutes of continuous runtime
- Not designed for woody stems, thick brush, or heavy-duty clearing
Verdict: A budget-friendly, lightweight cordless trimmer that makes quick edging and small-yard trimming easy and low-noise.
NEO-TEC 4‑in‑1 26cc Gas Multi‑Tool: String Trimmer, Edger, Hedge Trimmer, Brush Cutter
| Power Source | Gas Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 10 inches |
| Item Type Name | Gas Weed Eater |
| Size | 16 inches |
The NEO-TEC 4‑in‑1 gas multi-tool is designed as an all-purpose outdoor power tool for homeowners who want one machine to handle trimming, edging, hedging and light brush cutting. It uses a 26cc two-cycle engine with a 25:1 fuel‑oil mix and ships with a trimmer head, wheeled edger attachment, hedge trimmer blade and brush blade so you can switch modes without owning separate machines. Practical features include an apparently easy pull-start system that the maker says starts within about five pulls and an ergonomic rubber handle plus padded shoulder strap to reduce fatigue and vibration during longer jobs. The included mixing bottle and basic tools simplify first-time setup. Expect solid performance on overgrown grass, walkways and small hedges, and reasonable durability for home use if you maintain the 2‑cycle engine and follow the fuel mix. The unit is not CARB certified and cannot be used or sold in California, and being a 2‑cycle gas tool it requires regular mixing of oil, periodic spark plug and carburetor care, and produces typical exhaust and vibration you would not get from electric alternatives.
Best for: A buyer who values a single reliable gas tool to handle multiple yard tasks and prefers proven two‑cycle engine mechanics over battery systems for consistent power and uptime.
Less Ideal for: People who need a low‑emission or California‑compliant tool or those who prefer quieter, maintenance‑free electric trimmers and hedge trimmers.
- Four interchangeable functions in one machine reduce the need to buy multiple tools.
- 26cc two‑cycle engine provides power suitable for thick grass, light brush and hedges.
- Included accessories and tools let you start working with minimal extra purchases.
- Ergonomic rubber grip and padded shoulder strap help lower operator fatigue during longer jobs.
- Requires mixing gasoline and oil and routine 2‑cycle engine maintenance.
- Not CARB certified so it cannot be sold or used in California.
- Gas engine produces noise and emissions compared with electric options.
Verdict: Choose this NEO‑TEC 4‑in‑1 if you want one dependable gas tool that reliably handles trimming, edging, hedging and light brush cutting around the yard.
WORX 20V 12" 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger (WG163)
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 12 inches |
| Speed | 7600 rpm |
| Number of Batteries | 2 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
The WORX WG163 is a compact 2-in-1 cordless string trimmer that converts quickly to a wheel-guided edger for straight, clean borders. It uses a Command Feed spool so you only advance line when you want to, and the head tilts 90 degrees to reach slopes and tight areas. Rubberized support wheels help guide edging for consistent results and the adjustable spacer guard protects flowers and landscaping during trimming. Included with the tool are two 20V PowerShare batteries and a charger, which makes it ready to work on small to medium yards and lets you swap batteries across other WORX 20V tools. At about 5.5 pounds it is easy to maneuver and less fatiguing for longer sessions. Limitations to consider are the modest 12-inch cutting swath and single-speed motor, so it is not the fastest option for very large properties or heavy brush. The Command Feed system reduces bump-feed interruptions but you will still need to keep replacement line on hand for sustained use.
Best for: Buyers who want a lightweight, easy-to-use 2-in-1 trimmer and edger for small to medium lawns and value included batteries and proven features backed by many user reviews.
Less Ideal for: Not well suited for homeowners with large acreage, dense brush, or who need variable-speed power for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
- Converts quickly between trimmer and wheel-guided edger for two tools in one
- Command Feed spool provides on-demand line advance without bumping
- Two 20V PowerShare batteries included so you can work longer and use batteries across other WORX tools
- 90° tilting head and adjustable spacer guard improve access and protect plants
- Lightweight design eases fatigue during extended use
- 12-inch cutting width and single-speed motor limit efficiency on large yards or thick vegetation
Verdict: Choose the WORX WG163 if you want a lightweight, battery-ready 2-in-1 trimmer and edger that is easy to use and works well on small to medium lawns.
WORX WG928 20V 12" Cordless Trimmer & 360 CFM Leaf Blower Kit
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Cutting width | 12 inches |
| Speed | 75 miles_per_hour |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
The WORX WG928 combo gives homeowners a practical, low-hassle setup for routine yard care by combining a 12" string trimmer that converts to a wheeled edger with a turbine-style leaf blower. The trimmer uses a command-feed system to advance line on demand so you do not have to bump the head, and the pivoting trimmer head makes switching to edging fast and tool-free. The blower produces up to 360 CFM with two speed settings, which is enough to clear clippings and dry leaves from patios, sidewalks, and driveways. Both tools are battery powered and come with two 20V batteries and a charger, letting you finish small- to medium-size jobs without running cords or gas. Practical benefits include lighter weight for easier handling and compatibility with WORX PowerShare batteries if you already own other WORX tools. Limitations to note are the 12" cutting width, which makes the trimmer less efficient on very large properties, and the blower is best suited for light-to-moderate debris rather than heavy wet leaves or professional cleanup jobs.
Best for: Homeowners who want a reliable, easy-to-use cordless combo for routine trimming, edging, and blowing around yards, patios, and walkways without dealing with gas engines or complicated tools.
Less Ideal for: Landscapers, large-property owners, or anyone who regularly needs heavy-duty blowing or very fast wide-area trimming should consider higher-capacity or professional-grade equipment.
- Two-tool kit (trimmer that converts to edger plus blower) covers common yard tasks
- Command Feed line system supplies fresh cutting line on demand to reduce interruptions
- Includes two 20V batteries and charger for immediate cordless use out of the box
- Blower offers two-speed control and up to 360 CFM for directing debris where you want it
- Works with the WORX PowerShare platform for cross-tool battery compatibility
- 12-inch cutting width is best for small to medium yards and slows progress on larger properties
- Blower performance is geared to light-to-moderate debris and may struggle with heavy wet leaves
Verdict: A practical cordless trimmer and blower combo that gives risk-averse homeowners an easy, ready-to-use solution for routine yard maintenance.
Choosing the Right String Trimmer with Edger: Key Factors to Consider
Cutting System and Line Options
The cutting system determines how easily the tool slices through grass, weeds, and occasional thicker plants. A higher-revving head or heavier gauge line will handle dense growth and give cleaner cuts, while lighter lines are fine for regular lawn trimming. Look for heads that accept multiple line diameters or quick-reload spools to match the typical vegetation in your yard.
Line feed style matters for workload and reliability. Bump-feed and automatic feed heads each have tradeoffs in convenience versus robustness. Consider whether the trimmer accepts blade attachments for tougher brush or whether it limits you to nylon line only, because that affects long-term versatility.
Edger Mechanism and Adjustability
Edging performance depends on how the tool converts from a trimmer to an edger and the geometry of the cutting head relative to the shaft. Tools with a pivoting head or a dedicated edge position let you work at the correct angle without awkward wrist positions. An easily engaged edge mode keeps work consistent from one section of lawn to the next.
Adjustable depth control or a guide wheel improves repeatability for straight edges. If you plan to edge long runs of sidewalk or driveway, a model that locks solidly in the edge configuration will give a cleaner line and reduce fatigue.
Power Source and Runtime
Whether you choose battery, corded electric, or gas affects runtime, weight, and maintenance. Battery models offer quiet starts and low vibration but are limited by battery capacity and recharge time. Corded electric gives continuous runtime but restricts range unless you manage extension cords. Gas models deliver high torque for heavy growth and long run times but require fuel mixing, more maintenance, and higher vibration.
Think about the size of the area you service and whether you can recharge batteries between jobs. For multi-zone properties, having a spare battery or a gas option that runs for longer sessions is often a deciding factor.
Ergonomics, Weight, and Balance
How the tool feels during use affects control, straightness of trim and edge lines, and user fatigue. Lightweight trimmers are easier to swing and hold at an angle for edging, but very light models may transmit more vibration to the hands. A balanced design with an adjustable shoulder strap or harness connection point distributes load for longer sessions.
Handle shape and the position of the throttle or trigger should match how you naturally hold and guide the trimmer. Reach and shaft length influence posture; telescoping or adjustable shafts help different users maintain a comfortable stance while keeping the head at the correct working height.
Ease of Maintenance and Line Replacement
Routine maintenance determines how much time you spend keeping the tool ready to use. Heads that allow tool-free line changes or bump-feed reloading save frustration. For gas engines, access to the spark plug, air filter, and carburetor for cleaning is important. For battery systems, easily removable batteries and accessible contacts reduce downtime.
Durable guards and replaceable skid plates extend working life where edges and hard surfaces cause abrasion. Consider whether spare spools and common replacement parts are widely available to avoid long waits when a component wears out.
Cutting Width and Guard Design
Cutting width affects how quickly you can cover open turf but also how precise you can be near beds and paths. A wider head speeds up mow-like trimming but can make delicate work harder. Guard design influences visibility and debris deflection. A well-shaped guard protects the operator while allowing sightlines to the cutting edge for controlled passes.
If you frequently work close to plants, choose a design that minimizes collateral damage from kicked-up debris and offers a guard that is easy to reposition or remove for maintenance.
When an Edger Attachment Makes Sense
An integrated edger is most useful if you want to finish a mowing pass without switching tools or if the property has many paved borders that need crisp lines. The combined workflow reduces time and the number of tool changes when compared with using a separate manual edger or dedicated walk-behind edger.
If your lawn has frequent hard edges and you value a uniform look, an edger attachment that locks solidly into place is preferable. For occasional edging, a simple pivot-to-edge action may be sufficient and lighter to handle.
- Works best for medium to small yards with many paved borders
- Saves time compared with using separate edging tools
- Check how firmly the head locks in edge mode to ensure straight lines
Battery Versus Gas for Trimmer-Edger Combos
Battery models now offer competitive cutting power for typical lawn grasses and keep noise and vibration low. They are convenient for short to medium sessions and are easy to maintain. Keep in mind runtime limits and plan for spare batteries if you have larger areas.
Gas models still provide the longest continuous run and are better for heavy or overgrown areas, but they require more care and produce more vibration. Corded models are lightweight and unlimited by runtime, but they reduce mobility and require managing an extension cord safely.
- Battery: quiet, low maintenance, limited runtime
- Gas: long runtime, higher torque, more maintenance
- Corded: continuous runtime, limited reach
Techniques for Cleaner Edges
Keep the trimmer head vertical and walk at a steady pace for even edging. Let the string do the cutting; forcing the head into the pavement or soil causes uneven wear and can blunt the line quickly. For the neatest line, make two shallow passes rather than one deep cut-this reduces turf damage and produces a crisper result.
Use the tool's depth control or a guide wheel when available and maintain consistent body alignment with the edge. Periodically check the string length and replace worn line to preserve cutting efficiency.
- Make multiple shallow passes for crisp edges
- Maintain consistent head angle and walking pace
- Use depth guides or wheels when present
Maintenance Tips to Prolong Life
Clean the guard, head, and ventilation areas after each heavy use to prevent buildup of grass and grit that accelerates wear. For string heads, inspect the spool and replace frayed line promptly. Tighten fasteners on the guard and handle at regular intervals to preserve alignment.
On gas units, follow scheduled spark plug and air filter checks. For battery models, store batteries at recommended charge levels and keep contacts clean. Replace damaged guards and skid plates to avoid exposing the head to excessive impact.
- Clean debris after use and inspect wear parts
- Follow engine or battery maintenance recommendations
- Keep spare line and replacement parts on hand
Storage and Winterizing
Store the trimmer in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. For battery models, remove batteries and store them at recommended charge levels in a cool, dry location. For gas models, either run the engine dry of fuel or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent carburetor and tank problems over long storage.
Protect the trimmer head and shaft from moisture to prevent corrosion and check moving parts before the first use of the season. Hanging the tool by a handle or using wall-mounted storage keeps it off the floor and reduces the chance of accidental damage.
- Remove batteries for long-term storage
- Stabilize or remove fuel in gas units
- Hang or rack the tool to avoid contact with damp floors
How We Chose the Best String Trimmer with Edger
We focused on practical lawn care needs that matter when using a string trimmer with edger. Our selection filters prioritized cutting system effectiveness for both brush and lawn grass, edging geometry and adjustability, and tool balance for sustained handheld use. Battery life or fuel efficiency and recharge or refuel convenience were weighed for daily usability. Durability of the shaft, head, and guard, plus the ease of replacing line or switching to an edger position, were essential editorial criteria. We also considered vibration and handle ergonomics because comfort directly affects control and straight edges. Exclusions included specialty heavy brush cutters designed for commercial logging or forestry and purely decorative electric trimmers without edging capability. The final shortlist represents tools that meet those functional demands across small yards, medium properties, and paved-edge workflows.
FAQ
Can I use a string trimmer with edger capability on thick brush?
It depends on the cutting system and line thickness. Many trimmer-edger combos are optimized for turf and light weeds. For thick brush you will need heavier line or a blade attachment and a model designed for higher torque.
How do I switch from trimming to edging?
Most models have a pivoting head or an edge-lock position that you engage manually. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for locking the head and adjusting any depth guides. Practice the motion on a small area to get consistent results.
Are battery trimmer-edger combos powerful enough for a half-acre yard?
Often they are adequate for routine mowing and edging on a half-acre, but runtime limitations matter. Choose a model with longer run times or plan to have spare batteries available for continuous work.
How often should I replace the trimmer line?
Replace or refill the line when it becomes frayed or noticeably shorter, or whenever cutting quality drops. Frequency depends on how abrasive your work surface is and how often you hit hard edges or driveways.
Is there a difference in edge quality between pivoting heads and dedicated edger modes?
Yes. Dedicated edge modes or heads that lock solidly tend to produce straighter, more consistent edges. Pivoting heads can be quicker to switch but may allow slight movement unless they lock firmly.
What safety gear should I use with a trimmer with edger?
Wear eye protection, hearing protection for gas units, long pants, and sturdy footwear. Gloves help with grip, and consider a face shield or mesh guard if working near loose debris or gravel.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right string trimmer with edger capability comes down to the work you do and how much runtime, control, and durability you need. Prioritize cutting power and edging geometry when crisp lines matter, and favor comfortable ergonomics and manageable weight for longer sessions. For larger or more overgrown areas, runtime and torque become primary concerns; for smaller yards, ease of use and lower vibration may be most important. Balance these tradeoffs against maintenance needs and storage before committing so you get a tool that fits how you maintain your landscape.
