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10 Best Walk Behind String Trimmers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BILT HARD Walk Behind String Trimmer, 170cc 4-Cycle Gas Brush Hog Mower, 22 Inch Cutting Diameter, Push Weed Eater with 14 Inch Flat Free Wheels, Brush Cutter for Farm, Lawn, Yard

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,200
Trimmer Line Diameter
Weight

Most important from
124 reviews

Trimmer Line Diameter
Easy to change the heavy-duty, long-lasting string.
Weight
Masterfully designed and lightweight enough for just about anyone to use.

The BILT HARD Walk Behind String Trimmer features a powerful 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine, offering ample cutting power for heavy mowing tasks. With a 22-inch cutting width, it covers a wide area, making it efficient for larger yards or farms. The trimmer uses a heavy-duty nylon line that is effective in clearing thick grass and weeds, ideal for maintaining overgrown areas.

The 14-inch never-flat wheels ensure easy maneuvering across different terrains, and the foldable ergonomic handle improves grip and storage convenience. However, the manual recoil starting mechanism might be less convenient for some users compared to automatic or electric start options. Weighing 54.1 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for some users when pushing it around. The adjustable handle is a significant plus, offering customization for user comfort.

Assembly is required, which could be a disadvantage for those who prefer a ready-to-use product. This string trimmer is gasoline-powered, providing strong performance but also requiring regular maintenance and handling precautions. The product's robust design, including a one-piece steel deck, ensures durability and stability, although it may contribute to the weight. Its ability to reach tight spaces and tackle tough brush makes this trimmer well-suited for users with challenging landscaping needs.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,200
Trimmer Line Diameter
Weight

Most important from
124 reviews

Trimmer Line Diameter
Easy to change the heavy-duty, long-lasting string.
Weight
Masterfully designed and lightweight enough for just about anyone to use.
#2

YARDMAX YL2250 22 in. 170cc Gas Walk Behind String Trimmer Mower, Orange

Rating
9.6
Starting Mechanism

Most important from
51 reviews

Starting Mechanism
The gas trimmer is reliable and starts running as intended.

The YARDMAX YL2250 is a gas-powered walk-behind string trimmer designed for users needing to handle large trimming tasks efficiently. Its 170cc engine offers robust power, making it suitable for heavy-duty yard work. The 22-inch cutting width covers a significant area, reducing the time needed for trimming. The trimmer line diameter is not specified, but the tool-free height adjustment feature offers five cutting heights ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 inches, providing versatility for different grass lengths and terrains.

The offset head position allows for easy trimming along edges and around obstacles without constant repositioning, which is a significant convenience feature. The 14-inch ball bearing wheels are robust and designed to navigate various terrains easily, enhancing maneuverability. The onboard trimmer string storage is a handy feature, ensuring you have extra strings on hand when needed. At 61.7 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which could make it difficult to handle for some users, especially in smaller or more intricate spaces.

The manual starting mechanism may require a bit of effort, particularly when dealing with a cold engine. However, the adjustable handle is a plus, as it can accommodate users of different heights, making it more comfortable to use. In summary, the YARDMAX YL2250 is a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly string trimmer, ideal for large yards and heavy-duty trimming tasks, but its weight and manual start could be drawbacks for some users.

Rating
9.6
Starting Mechanism

Most important from
51 reviews

Starting Mechanism
The gas trimmer is reliable and starts running as intended.
#3

Yard Force 22 in. 163cc Briggs and Stratton 675Exi Gas Walk Behind String Trimmer Mower

Rating
9.5
Engine Power
Cutting Width
Wheel Size

Most important from
5 reviews

Engine Power
The powerful engine combined with a wide 22-inch cutting width handles medium to large yards efficiently.
Cutting Width
The powerful engine combined with a wide 22-inch cutting width handles medium to large yards efficiently.
Wheel Size
The 14-inch rubber-wrapped rear wheels provide smooth movement across different terrains, reducing effort on uneven ground.
Weight
While the mower is stable and well-built, its weight of over 68 pounds may feel heavy during extended use.
Adjustable Handle
The foldable handle makes storage and transportation much easier.

The Yard Force 22 in. walk-behind string trimmer features a powerful 163cc Briggs & Stratton commercial-grade engine combined with a large 22-inch cutting width, making it suitable for efficiently trimming medium to large lawns. Its 'Check & Add' oil system simplifies maintenance by eliminating the need for regular oil changes. The trimmer utilizes a 0.155-inch line diameter, which balances cutting strength and line lifespan for typical grass and light weeds.

Equipped with 14-inch rubber-wrapped rear wheels, this mower rolls smoothly over various terrains and reduces effort on uneven ground. Weighing 68.3 pounds, it offers a balance between stability and maneuverability, although it might feel somewhat heavy during extended use for some users. The foldable handle enhances storage convenience and makes transportation easier.

This unit is well suited for homeowners with medium to large yards seeking a reliable, easy-to-maintain gas-powered trimmer mower. However, its manual starting system may be less convenient than electric start models, especially when starting the engine cold, and it may not be ideal for those looking for a lightweight or very easy-starting machine.

Rating
9.5
Engine Power
Cutting Width
Wheel Size

Most important from
5 reviews

Engine Power
The powerful engine combined with a wide 22-inch cutting width handles medium to large yards efficiently.
Cutting Width
The powerful engine combined with a wide 22-inch cutting width handles medium to large yards efficiently.
Wheel Size
The 14-inch rubber-wrapped rear wheels provide smooth movement across different terrains, reducing effort on uneven ground.
Weight
While the mower is stable and well-built, its weight of over 68 pounds may feel heavy during extended use.
Adjustable Handle
The foldable handle makes storage and transportation much easier.

Buying Guide for the Best Walk Behind String Trimmers

Walk-behind string trimmers are a great tool for maintaining your lawn and garden, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with a traditional lawnmower. They are designed to handle tough weeds, tall grass, and uneven terrain with ease. When choosing the right walk-behind string trimmer for your needs, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance and value for your specific situation.
Engine PowerEngine power, measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or horsepower (HP), determines the trimmer's ability to cut through thick grass and weeds. Higher engine power means more cutting strength. For small to medium yards with light to moderate vegetation, an engine with 140-160cc should suffice. For larger areas with dense or tough vegetation, consider an engine with 190cc or more. Choose based on the size and condition of the area you need to maintain.
Cutting WidthThe cutting width is the diameter of the area the trimmer can cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width means you can cover more ground quickly, which is ideal for larger areas. Typical cutting widths range from 22 to 24 inches. For small to medium yards, a cutting width of 22 inches is usually adequate. For larger properties, a 24-inch cutting width can save you time and effort.
Trimmer Line DiameterThe trimmer line diameter affects the durability and cutting capability of the string. Thicker lines (0.095 inches or more) are more durable and can handle tougher vegetation, while thinner lines (around 0.080 inches) are suitable for lighter trimming tasks. If you have a lot of thick weeds and tough grass, opt for a thicker line. For regular lawn maintenance, a thinner line will be sufficient.
Wheel SizeWheel size impacts the maneuverability and ease of use of the trimmer. Larger wheels (12 inches or more) provide better stability and can handle rough or uneven terrain more effectively. Smaller wheels (8-10 inches) are suitable for flat, even surfaces. Consider the terrain of your yard when choosing the wheel size; larger wheels are better for bumpy or hilly areas, while smaller wheels are fine for smooth lawns.
WeightThe weight of the trimmer affects how easy it is to push and maneuver. Lighter trimmers (under 60 pounds) are easier to handle and are suitable for smaller yards or less physically demanding tasks. Heavier trimmers (over 60 pounds) may offer more power and stability but can be more challenging to maneuver, especially on uneven terrain. Choose a weight that you can comfortably manage for the duration of your trimming tasks.
Adjustable HandleAn adjustable handle allows you to customize the height and angle of the handle for better comfort and control. This feature is important for reducing strain and fatigue during use. If you have multiple users of different heights or if you plan to use the trimmer for extended periods, an adjustable handle can make the task more comfortable and efficient.
Starting MechanismThe starting mechanism can be either a recoil (pull) start or an electric start. Recoil starts are common and reliable but require more physical effort. Electric starts are more convenient and easier to use, especially for those who may have difficulty with pull starts. Consider your physical ability and preference when choosing the starting mechanism.

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