What to Consider When Buying a Walk Behind String Trimmer?

We previously discussed how handheld weed trimmers are ideal when you are up for some light trimming.

So what about heavy-duty trimming?

This is where walk-behind string trimmers shine—they let you kill overgrown leaves by pushing them.

Are you facing some thickly weeded areas? Is your yard too large for a handheld model? Is the weed too rough for a lawnmower?

When you’re facing serious foliage, then it’s not recommendable to use handheld models. Likewise, a bigger yard size requires a more powerful unit.

But with the right-wheeled grass trimmer, you can munch grass and weeds down to size fast.

There are many choices on the market – and they come with different features and prices.

To help you assess those factors, our team has created a list of items that you should look for in a good weed eater.

What We Look for in A Good Walk Behind String Trimmer

We searched the market for various models that have justifiable power, consistency, mobility, durability, maintenance, and price.

We are going, to be honest, each unit has drawbacks, but the models on this list have the upper hand.

It is important to see whether a Push weed eater can help if:

• You want more power to face thick weeds and grass.
• You need more maneuverability.
• You require less frequent maintenance.
• You desire a more long-lasting tool.
• You have to go through tough trimming areas of your yard.
• You need power consistency for both light and heavy trimming jobs.

Things to Think About When Choosing A Walk-Behind String Trimmer?

There are quite a number of features you have to consider before buying a model. It can be perplexing at times.

This is why we’ve developed this section to walk you through the necessary factors in choosing the right unit for you.

Yard Size

You can use a wheeled string trimmer on both small, medium, and large-sized yards.

Typically, lawn owners would go for a handheld model if they have a small space.

While this is acceptable, you may opt for a walk-behind unit if you do not want the strain of carrying tools.

This is especially true if you are covering a massive area with tall, overgrown grass.

The models we’ve introduced are more appropriate for large acres.

Weight And Dimensions

Push weed trimmers tend to be bulky because of the engine.

But since there are wheels, you won’t face the dreadful task of carrying the tool on your back or using your hands.

This type of trimmer is beneficial if you need to avoid carrying heavy equipment.

Engine Power

The amount of power depends on the kind of job. This is why it’s crucial to identify the engine output first.

The engine output determines a unit’s ability to tackle trimming jobs.

For example, you need more power if you will munch tough foliage like dense weeds, thick grass, saplings, and shrubs. 

Moreover, generous engine output is enough for lighter tasks such as maintaining thinner weeds and grass.

Other options in the power trimmer category include gas-powered 4-cycle trimmers. 

To give a clearer picture, string trimmers are ideal for grass and weeds only. Therefore, do not expect that even a model with a 190cc engine can take down a young tree.

You also have to be mindful of the fuel tank capacity.

The larger space you have, the bigger engine you need to trim quickly. Make sure you have enough fuel to finish the task in one round.

Cutting Swath

Since wheeled string trimmers are ideal for large areas, you have to consider how long it will take for you to cover.

Additionally, trimmers have different cutting widths.

Our list has 1 model with 17 inches while the rest have the standard 22 inches.

It’s advisable to go for a 22-inch cutting swath because it will get your yard cleared at a faster rate.

Trimmer Line Size And String Replacement

Always go for a thick string. The thickest string utilized in push grass trimmers is 0.155 inches in diameter.

Light duty	0.065 to 0.080 inches	Perfect for light weeding and trimming in small or standard residential yards.
Medium duty	0.085 to 0.015 inches	Ideal for commercial gardens or lawns that have dense grass.
Heavy duty	0.110 inches and above	Recommendable for acres of land or large properties.

Remember, the thicker the string, the longer its lifespan.

A thick string is particularly advantageous if you have to deal with woody weeds.

Push string trimmers can handle tough shrubbery, but it’s still advisable to keep some replacement lines readily available.

Cutting Height

Another good feature to have is adjustable height settings.

Even if a couple of units would have a similar cutting swath or trimmer line size, the output would be different if they have different cutting heights.

For example, if a lawn hasn’t been cleaned in months, the grass might be several inches high.

But if it’s well-maintained, you will only face a couple of inches.

This is where the adjustable height settings come in for your convenience.

Similarly, it’s advisable to go for a lower cut if you’re covering an area of scrubby growth.

Meanwhile, you can reduce the cutting height in stages if you’re after a quality finish.

Know that most units will cut to a height of between about 1.5 and 4 inches.

Normally, the equipment will begin at the pre-set increments.

Therefore, you must check the user manual on how to adjust the height range.

Wheel Size

The best thing about walk-behind weed trimmers is that there are varying wheel sizes.

Keep in mind that smaller wheels will require more effort to control.

This is why you should opt for more than 14 inches in circumference for easier maneuverability.

A machine with larger wheels will be easier to redirect.

As a result, you get to cover more areas faster.

Also, it lessens resistance when you have to go up hills or push over on uneven ground.

Comfort And Ease Of Use

When it comes to lawn equipment, ergonomics is sometimes overlooked.

What users tend to forget is that ergonomics impact the weight, maneuverability, and overall comfort of a tool.

For instance, a heavy unit is harder to control, especially on rough terrain.

A model that is easy to push around would make the trimming job easier and more comfortable.

Another thing, it’s likely you will be pushing the tool along uneven terrain, so be prepared to face the bumpy ground and areas.

Consequently, weeds and grass tend to be thick in such places.

Similarly, you would want a handle grip bar at the right angle and height to decrease strain on your back while pushing.

In addition, a trimmer is a vibrating tool, which can make your shoulders, hands, and arms feel tingly for quite some time.

Some units have vibration dampening that will permit you to work on extending periods of time.

Thus, it is crucial that you can comfortably push the trimmer, so you won’t feel any strain on your arms or shoulders.

Noise And Pollution Levels

For lawn owners, the noise and emissions coming from a walk-behind weed eater are normal.

However, this might not be the case for your neighbors.

The tolerable noise range is between 60 to 90 decibels.

Most fuel-powered models, like the ones on this list, have a decibel rating around that range.

You won’t be getting any problems in this aspect because we made sure that the products reviewed have passed this criterion.

Warranty And Price

Here’s another great deciding factor.

Remember, you pay for the features that a model has.

So the more innovative and powerful features a unit has, the higher the chance that it has a bigger price tag.

But this is not the case every time, sometimes there is affordable walk-behind string trimmers that have the same assets as expensive ones.

Generally, the engine makes a unit pricey.

But in terms of value, having a costly, yet powerful engine is definitely worth the investment.

Moreover, a unit’s material also determines the cost.

A model that is mostly made out of steel or metal means good and long-lasting quality.

But this doesn’t mean that plastic-made tools are not well-made.

There are some components that are better off using plastic.

For instance, there are models that use plastic for safety shields and bumpers.

Likewise, the wider the string diameter, the tougher it will be and the less often you’ll have to replace it.

But this saves you money in the long run because there’s no need to regularly change the string.

In contrast, a small string diameter may add up to the cost.

On the other hand, the warranty is your guarantee for reliability.

However, most warranties only cover the tool. Some manufacturers have different warranties for other mechanical parts.

Rest assured that all units in this post have 2-year limited warranties.

Based on our analysis, higher-rated trimmers usually have a longer warranty since they are more reliable.

On the contrary, lower-rated trimmers normally have shorter warranties.

When it comes to mechanical equipment, we believe that a pricey unit is worth buying if it guarantees durability.

This would also enable you to save up on possible maintenance expenses.

But if you think that a low-priced model outperforms an expensive unit in terms of specifications, then trust your gut.

Similarly, we’ve prepared everything you need to know in one article: a comparison chart, how to choose, product review of walk-behind weed eater models this year.

By the end of this post, you will certainly be able to decide which models would work best for your urban garden.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to accomplish a task by only pushing a tool?

As the saying goes, it’s like having a walk in the park.

Well, here’s your chance.

Check out this short overview to see the aspects that will make trimming lawns way easier compared to using handheld models.

Suggestions on Walk-Behind String Trimmers

• BLACK+DECKER 140cc 4-Cycle Gas Powered String Trimmer
• TAZZ One-Piece Steel Deck Walk-Behind String Trimmer

FAQ

Final Thoughts

We’ve shared all our information about choosing the best walk-behind weed trimmers.

Finding the right model could be confusing and challenging. But with the right details, you will surely be able to pick one.

We hope our comparison chart, buying guide, product review, and FAQ section have helped you make a wise choice.

Moreover, the units we’ve revealed have superior features and strengths, despite having a couple of weaknesses.

Keep in mind that while features such as cutting capacity and engine power are crucial, you should still consider your own comfort and preferences.

Finally, if a walk-behind string trimmer is too much for your needs, consider a lighter-weight battery-operated trimmer or some models even come in a trimmer blower combo kit.

These options are more convenient if you just need some light trimming or edging around your landscaping.