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Yet, a trimming job could take about 60 minutes, even more, especially if you have a large yard.
There are always the good old gas-powered trimmers, but they are terribly heavy. If you’re using a hefty tool, it could surely make the trimming job tougher than you think.
Hence, the best lightweight weed eater will help you trim easily without getting body strain too quickly.
We’ve trimmed this list to only 4 lightweight weed whackers, so you’re definitely getting the best of the best!
The right model can be your ultimate best friend because it will reduce fatigue on your body – making sure you have enough strength to finish your tasks. You’ll want your weed eater to remain light to carry for long periods of time.
To save you time in scouring the market for the best model, we’ve done the research and testing for you.
Contrary to what people think, mechanical tools are also lightweight. Factors such as power output, operating time, and trimming capabilities impact a light-duty weed trimmer’s weight.
Thus, we’ve compiled these crucial details for you to choose the best lightweight model for your lawn maintenance needs.
Table of Contents
- 1 Best Lightweight Weed Eaters Reviews & Buying Guide For 2024
- 1.1 1. Most Lightweight Model: BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker
- 1.2 2. Lightweight Electric Weed Eater: GreenWorks 4Amp 13-Inch Corded String Trimmer
- 1.3 3. Best For Long Battery Life: Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer
- 1.4 4. Highest Power To Weight Ratio: EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56V Cordless String Trimmer
- 2 Do You Need a Lightweight Weed Trimmer?
- 3 Are Light-Duty Grass Trimmers Powerful Enough?
- 4 How We Selected The Top Items
- 5 Buying Guide: How To Choose The Lightest Weed Whacker
- 6 Which Lightweight Weed Whacker Should I Buy?
- 7 Sources
Best Lightweight Weed Eaters Reviews & Buying Guide For 2024
- BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker
- GreenWorks 4Amp 13-Inch Corded String Trimmer
- Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer
- EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56V Cordless String Trimmer
1. Most Lightweight Model: BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker
Editor’s #1 Choice
- 20-volt Lithium Ion battery pack for 33% more run time
- The PowerDrive Transmission delivers more power from the motor to the...
- Automatic Feed Spool ensures continuous work without bumping. Line...
Specifications
- Weight: 5.7 lbs
- Trimmer Cut Path: 12 inches
- Trimmer Line Size: 0.065 inches
- Power Source and Voltage: 20V lithium-ion batteries
- Operating Time: 30 minutes
- Maximum Yard Size: 4,000 square feet
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty on the body; the warranty isn’t applicable to the accessories
If you base on the actual weight alone, it’s evident that the BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker is the most lightweight.
Weighing in at 5.7 lbs, the Black and Decker LST300 is certainly one of the lightest cordless weed eater. Not only is it the most lightweight unit on this list, but it also has the best features.
Actually, it’s three times lighter than its engine counterpart. Despite being lightweight, it’s powerful enough to provide 33% more operating time than standard batteries due to its 20V lithium-ion batteries.
As you can see, it’s also one of the best in terms of features. It is quiet, has an excellent battery capacity, and is reasonably priced.
This lightweight string trimmer has a 12-inch cutting swath that is ideal for small and medium lawns. It also features a Power Drive system, which gives the tool a higher cutting power.
Hence, you can say that this unit is a beast to reckon with because it can go through tough grass and debris without putting too much strain on the user.
This model has a battery pack that gives a longer runtime—allowing you to do both trimming and edging. Thus, a 30-minute operating time gives enough power to maintain the needs of a standard yard.
Black and Decker’s units are known for their PowerDrive transmission, a system that boosts the torque to transfer more power from the motor to the cutting string, allowing you to trim grass in a shorter time.
In addition, the Black and Decker LST300 is pretty versatile because of a tool-free conversion element that permits you to convert the tool to an edger.
Since it has an automatic feed spool, you’ll see that its 0.065-inch trimmer line does continuous work and avoids bumping.
Other bonus features we like are that it comes with a straight shaft and an ergonomic and adjustable handle. Also, unlike gas-powered models, this cordless grass trimmer operates quietly.
Moreover, the handle adjusts to your angle and height preference. The head can even turn 90 degrees to get edges.
On the downside, the Black and Decker LST300 is more suitable for light trimming since it doesn’t offer variable speeds.
Likewise, the battery may only last 15 minutes when the tool is used on extremely thick grass or weed. Yet, it’s backed up with a Runtime Extension Technology that helps the equipment last for a long run time.
From what we’ve experienced, the spools of this lightweight weed eater can be a little tricky to replace, but it can be easy to drop in a new line once you’ve figured it out.
Based on its operating time and the features we’ve discovered, we suggest using this model in lawns up to 4,000 square feet.
If you have a suburban home with a yard, this model can unquestionably get the job done.
Overall, the Black and Decker LST300 is an excellent product to use. It gives equal importance to weight, ergonomic design, power, and trimming capabilities.
PROS
CONS
2. Lightweight Electric Weed Eater: GreenWorks 4Amp 13-Inch Corded String Trimmer
Specifications
- Weight: 7.4 lbs
- Trimmer Cut Path: 13 inches
- Trimmer Line Size: 0.065 dual-line
- Power Source and Voltage: 4 Amp power cord
- Operating Time: 35 minutes
- Maximum Yard Size: 4,000 square feet
- Warranty: 4-year warranty
Despite being the heaviest item on this list, the GreenWorks 4-Amp 13-Inch Corded String Trimmer proves to be a contender because of its lightweight and easy-to-use design.
Not only that, it makes up for its price—being the cheapest on this list. Additionally, it has the longest warranty among the products we’ve reviewed.
It offers a quiet yet reliable performance from the 4-Amp motor. It has a 180-degree rotating handle for edging tasks and an adjustable telescoping shaft for height adjustments.
To add to its lightweight feature, this model has a telescoping shaft for various user heights. It is also fitted with a rotating shaft, which is perfect for edging.
Likewise, the shaft rotates so you can turn the trimmer upside down or on its side to the edge. On the other hand, the retractable metal flower guard doubles as a guide when you use it in edging mode.
There’s also an ergonomic handle that makes it easier to grasp the tool. As a result, you avoid hand strain, making you feel that the equipment is very light.
The 13-inch cutting width helps you complete the job quicker. Meanwhile, the 0.065 dual-line auto-feed head makes advancing the cutting line simple and easy.
When these two factors are combined, the GreenWorks 4-Amp 13-Inch corded string trimmer lets you finish trimming up 4,000 square feet in 35 minutes.
It also has a single-line auto line feed, so you won’t have to worry about manually adjusting the spool every time.
Furthermore, this corded weed whacker uses a 4-Amp motor. Thus, it is powerful enough to cut most of the tough weeds in your lawn.
What’s more, all GreenWorks products have a zero carbon footprint. As a result, you get the power you need without polluting the air. This is a good choice, especially for environment-conscious users.
Its variable trigger speed helps users not to feel they are holding a 7.4 lbs mechanical tool.
Unfortunately, the adjustable shaft is short, making it harder for taller people to use.
Also, you have to buy the power cord separately. On the positive side, this unit has a cord lock to avoid accidental unplugging.
Our team also discovered that the GreenWorks 4-Amp 13-Inch electric string trimmer depends on the cord’s length, so the model is apt for small to medium-sized lawns.
Overall, this model is an affordable yet functional electric weed eater. Its features are typical, but its reasonable price, warranty, and power make it the most budget-friendly item on this list.
PROS
CONS
3. Best For Long Battery Life: Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer
- Makita-built motor delivers 7,800 RPM for faster cutting speed and...
- Ergonomic design is well balanced with less weight (only 6.4 pounds with...
- Compact size is ideal for trimming and precise edging
Specifications
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Trimmer Cut Path: 11 inches
- Trimmer Line Size: 0.065 inches
- Power Source and Voltage: 3.0 Ah 18V battery
- Operating Time: 45-60 minutes
- Maximum Yard Size: 3-year warranty on the tool and battery; 30-day replacement or refund
The Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT lithium-ion cordless string trimmer is another lightweight model worth considering because of its capacity to cut through any chaff.
Its motor delivers an incredible 7,800 revolutions per minute. When you try the easy-to-assemble spool, you’ll see how powerful it can go through stubborn and overgrown weeds.
As you can see, this model has a premium motor. Its RPM equates to a rate of speed that should impressively accelerate the time you spend whacking weeds.
We noticed that the spool assembly is easy to attach and rewind, thanks to an improved reinforced metal bump-feed button.
Moreover, the Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT comes with a nylon cord and bump-and-feed trimmer head. The head can even be adjusted to 5 positions, making the weight easier to manage.
The model’s 180-degree rotating head permits the user to convert from trimmer to edger easily.
As we’ve explained earlier, the ability to easily maneuver the tool also impacts the item’s weight.
In this case, the model’s head offers five different positions for cutting from difficult angles. For versatility, it even has a hedger conversion component.
For increased user convenience, the Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT also comes with an adjustable loop handle that adjusts to a user’s working posture and height.
Similarly, this lightweight grass trimmer has a telescoping shaft, adjusted from 481/2” to 561/2”.
What’s more, it comes with a battery warning light that can alert you when the battery is running low. Also, the model automatically shuts down the motor when a recharge is necessary.
The factor that makes this rechargeable string trimmer stand out in this list is its Star Protection, which allows the battery and tool to communicate conditions. As a result, you prevent the unit from overloading and overheating.
One of the shortcomings is that the package doesn’t include batteries and a charger. But on the bright side, there’s a built-in lock-off lever for user convenience.
Likewise, it does not fair well against high grass. To be fair, the Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT is the ideal solution for landscape cutting, trimming, and edging.
Lastly, it will only take you about 45 to 60 minutes to fully charge the battery. Afterward, you can kill weeds again up to 6,000 square meters.
All in all, this is a premium option for those who have extra cash to spend. It is not the most lightweight, but it’s one of the most compact models that can provide the much-needed power to whack weeds.
PROS
CONS
4. Highest Power To Weight Ratio: EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56V Cordless String Trimmer
- Dual-feed twist line with 0.095 in. diameter
- Hi-efficiency brushless motor with variable speed
- Compatible with all EGO POWER+ Arc Lithium Batteries
Specifications
- Weight: 6.7 lbs
- Trimmer Cut Path: 15 inches
- Trimmer Line Size: 0.095 inches
- Power Source and Voltage: 2.0 Ah and 2.5 Ah 56V lithium-ion battery kits
- Operating Time: 45 minutes
- Maximum Yard Size: 5,000 square feet
- Warranty: 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery kit warranty
Who says light-duty weed trimmers aren’t powerful enough?
If you need to balance weight, price, functionality, power to weight ratio, then the EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer with Split Shaft should be your top pick.
It has the perfect balance between power and weight, giving you the leisure of whacking stubborn grass and pesky debris. You get a piece of efficient equipment because of the combination of the brushless motor and ergonomic design.
The model delivers the performance of gas models without the fumes, fuss, and noise due to its 56V lithium-ion battery. Thus, it provides the highest power to weight ratio.
Additionally, its high-efficiency brushless motor offers variable speed. When you can go at high speed, it will take you less time to carry the item.
It has a 15-inch cutting swath and a 49-inch extended aluminum shaft with an in-line grip for efficient trimming. Also, it has a bump feed head and a dual feed twist line of 0.095 inches.
We also like the EGO POWER+ 15-inch string trimmer, which is weather-resistant construction, making it resilient to hefty conditions.
Furthermore, this battery-powered weed trimmer can cover 5,000 square meters in more or less 45 minutes.
On the downside, the package only includes the XRU02Z cordless string trimmer and a standard charger. You have to buy batteries separately.
I wouldn’t suggest using this model as an edger because it has no length guide. As a result, it constantly uses up too much line as it hits the curb.
But other unique features make up for its little flaws.
For instance, there’s little to no vibration, which makes the model easy to handle. Consequently, these features make it even lighter to hold the unit.
Also, we found that replacing the string is easier compared to the first three items.
Our tests also saw that the EGO POWER+ 56V String Trimmer isn’t prone to throwing stuff around. This is because the handle and the head are easy to maneuver. When you can easily control the body, it means its lightweight aspect is effective.
Remember when we said that having a variable speed feature also impacts how you feel the tool’s weight?
Well, this battery-powered weed trimmer offers speed control, which allows you to shorten operating time when set at full power.
As a bonus feature, there’s a battery indicator that turns red when the unit needs charging. It only takes 30 minutes to charge the battery fully.
Yes, it’s a relatively large unit, but its ergonomic design permits a user’s forearm to help balance this tool.
In a nutshell, the EGO POWER+ 15-inch String Trimmer is lightweight yet powerful equipment that can blast weeds, pebbles, and dirt out of the way.
PROS
CONS
Do You Need a Lightweight Weed Trimmer?
- Do you easily get tired when doing lawn work?
- Do you need to avoid the laborious effects of a heavy tool?
- Do you hate bending when trimming?
- Do you want to avoid arms and back strain?
- Do you wish you’re armed with a powerful yet compact lawn tool?
- Are you fed up with hauling bulky and smelly equipment?
- Are you irritated by feeling shaky after a 30-minute trimming job?
- Are you maintaining a small to the medium-sized urban yard?
If yes, then a lightweight weed whacker is positively the solution to your dilemma.
It allows you to maneuver easily and do the task at hand. Consequently, you are guaranteed safety because you can completely control the tool.
A compact and lightweight weed eater should offer mobility. In this way, there’s no hinder to your movements and coverage area.
A grass trimmer that weighs less than 12 lbs is considered a lightweight model. But we didn’t settle for this standard. We’ve hunted the market for models that weigh less than 8 lbs.
In this way, you are guaranteed:
- Less back, arms, and hands strain;
- Reduced fatigue;
- Handling ease;
- Faster trimming and edging work;
- Low operational cost;
- Ergonomic design for reduced weight;
- Easy control and maneuvering;
- Compact and light-duty trimming.
Are Light-Duty Grass Trimmers Powerful Enough?
A resounding yes. Power can be attributed to the voltage and battery life of your chosen model. So, regardless of the weight, if a lightweight weed eater has a high voltage and long battery lifespan, then it is undoubtedly powerful.
Even if you have a lightweight and compact weed trimmer, you wouldn’t have to worry about power, especially if your tool uses a high voltage battery. Some models even come with an extra battery.
Later in the product review part, you’ll be amazed about how a lightweight, compact tool that weighs more or less 7 lbs can be powerful enough to kill weeds in a 6,000 square foot.
We wouldn’t underestimate a lawn maintenance tool, even if it’s considered light duty. You’ll be pleased to know that they are actually designed to be compact – all while being able to produce the same power as gas-operated ones.
How We Selected The Top Items
The 4 products we’ve introduced come from a month-long test of 12 of the most in-demand models on the market.
They come from a family of lawn maintenance tools that have proven their credibility and functionality over the years.
The 4 items have all passed each important feature you will need.
Therefore, we focused on models that do exceptionally well in mitigating fatigue, typical to long gardening sessions.
Our team tried selected lightweight string trimmers on everyday lawn tasks. As expected, all of these models have proven their abilities to cut through thick grass in a lawn.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Lightest Weed Whacker
We know how you might decide which one you should buy by looking at the actual weight alone.
While you may veer to this side of a decision, it’s still better if you will get the whole package.
Therefore, we’ve prepared this list of the factors you should consider in buying a holistic model.
Weight And Dimensions
Weight and dimensions are vital factors you should consider. You need a weed whacker that is practical to carry because you’ll be using it across a yard.
Gas-operated string trimmers are the heaviest. So, when looking for a lightweight model, you could consider two types of electric trimmers: corded and battery-powered.
Rechargeable and corded models sometimes weigh the same. Normally, a unit weighs around 6 lbs (when the battery isn’t attached) for reduced operator fatigue.
Check factors such as material, construction, battery, and design because they impact weight.
But naturally, a lightweight and compact model should help you avoid getting tired fast, allowing you to complete trimming duties properly.
Varying weight, dimensions, and power output determine how a unit can balance its functionality and weight.
We strongly suggest checking the measurements of your desired product. In this way, you can determine whether you can adjust some of its parts to fit your carrying needs.
One good way to determine if the weight is ideal for you is whether you can carry the item in your hands without support or strap.
So, the question is – can you can carry the tool for at least 30 minutes without stress?
Hence, a unit that weighs about 4 to 7 lbs is considered compact, making it light and easy to control even in tight spaces.
Power And Battery Life
When using a battery-operated weed trimmer, you have to keep track of how long a fully charged battery can last. Similarly, you must know whether it can last long if used in high settings.
Normally, 30 minutes at a low setting should suffice, 45 minutes is better, but those that can last up to 60 minutes are the best.
We understand that you are after a lightweight tool, but know that the more powerful your model is, the more capable it is of reducing your cutting time. Subsequently, it reduces the time you have to carry an electric weed whacker.
However, you would also want to consider a unit’s power output. Note that the more powerful a model is, the greater the chance it could be heavier.
Trimming Capabilities
A trimming cut path of at least 12 inches is ideal. In this way, you get to trim and edge at a faster rate.
Since lightweight weed eaters are appropriate for small to medium-sized lawns, then a compact width of 10 to 18 inches should suffice.
Moreover, we strongly recommend owning a model that has a trimmer line size of 0.080 inches or thicker so that the dual nylon lines can cut through thick, stubborn grass.
However, a line size of 0.085 to 0.105 inches is only suitable for commercial yards. If you are working on a residential property, it’s better to use a light-duty line of 0.065 inches.
Ergonomic Design
A rechargeable weed whacker with an ergonomic design assures its lightweight prowess.
Having an ergonomic design means you can easily control the equipment because it has an adjustable shaft and an ergonomic handle.
An adjustable shaft guarantees versatility since it allows people of various heights and sizes to control the tool comfortably. Meanwhile, the most lightweight units will typically have a single handle.
As a result, you don’t have to worry about getting tired easily.
How Much Should You Pay?
Cordless weed eaters have a price range of $40 and up. You can own cheap but reliable models for as low as $50.
Meanwhile, premium models can go as high as $100. The main difference? Sometimes the more expensive ones tend to have a bigger power output, which means a longer and faster ability to whack weeds.
But like what we mentioned earlier, those units tend to be heavier. So choosing a model is a combination of different features.
How Can I Maintain A Lightweight Weed Trimmer?
The best way is always to remove weed and debris from your tool after usage.
Some models allow you to remove the battery after usage, allowing cooling down for both the battery and the tool faster.
It’s also advisable to lubricate the shaft for smooth trimming.
Lastly, don’t forget to store your unit in a dry, safe, and well-ventilated place.
Safety Is Paramount
Battery-operated grass trimmers are generally safe to use. That’s why most models have safety guards in place.
However, it is wise to take some precautionary measures.
For example, never wear shorts, short-sleeved shirts, and sandals when using the tool.
Similarly, make sure there’s no loose clothing or untidied hair.
Always make use of sturdy boots, glasses or goggles, gloves, ear covers, and face shield when trimming.
Ensure no person or animal is within your working vicinity. You might scatter debris or pebbles while working.
Which Lightweight Weed Whacker Should I Buy?
Killing weeds can be a tedious task. It becomes even more vexing when you’re using a heavy and big grass trimmer.
Fortunately, the four models we’ve reviewed have considered weight as a crucial aspect.
Out of all the items we’ve tried, the BLACK+DECKER LST300 remains to be our top choice in terms of weight.
Meanwhile, we’d love for you to experience the power rewards of using the EGO Power+ ST1500-S 15-Inch 56-Volt.
But for those who want to veer to a more budget-friendly yet lightweight unit, then the GreenWorks 4-Amp 13-Inch Corded String Trimmer surely worth your penny.
Weighing between 4 lbs to 7 lbs, these lightweight weed whackers will help you finish trimming tasks without suffering from fatigue.
Remove the weight off of your shoulders. We’ve carefully selected the options for you, even if it’s your first time handling a trimmer.
Whatever you pick from this list, we’re certain it can meet the demands of your lawn maintenance.
Lastly, why not pair your lightweight trimmer with a lightweight leaf blower for all your landscaping needs. Even better, if you are also looking for a leaf blower and trimmer combo, check our post on the best blower/trimmer combos in the market today.
Happy trimming!
Sources
- String Trimmer Buying Guide, Consumer Reports
I operate a seasonal lawn maintenance business and have 20 years of experience with cool season grasses and coordinating labour for residential yards. I do a lot of work outside as well as writing, making films, equity investing, and overseas travel during the cold winter. Previous life as an architectural design intern.