Ideal to obtain a regular green space, the edge cutter is designed for finishing and reaching the smallest corners of your garden. But like any equipment, choosing a gardening tool that meets our needs and requirements is not always easy. In order to help you in your choice, here is a buying guide on the best edgers of the moment.
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Our selection
"The Einhell GC-CT 18/24 trimmer is ideal for fast progress and proper results. Its cutting width and powerful motor ensure a perfect cut and an…"
"For a very affordable price, enjoy a trimmer that makes your life easier when it comes to garden maintenance with the Bosch EasyGrasscut 23. Highly…"
"The Bosch AdvancedGrasscut 36 is a high-performance trimmer perfect for large garden maintenance. Powered by a 36V battery, it offers a cutting width of 30cm…"
"The GLC3630L20-QW is a quality gardening tool designed to trim edges and get rid of weeds. With a cutting width of 30 cm, it has…"
The Einhell GC-CT 18/24 trimmer is ideal for fast progress and proper results. Its cutting width and powerful motor ensure a perfect cut and an optimal finish.
67,96 £ on Amazon
For a very affordable price, enjoy a trimmer that makes your life easier when it comes to garden maintenance with the Bosch EasyGrasscut 23. Highly efficient, it ensures a precise and neat cut using rotating wires.
31,83 £ on AmazonThe Bosch EasyGrasscut 23 is a corded gardening tool with a rotating wire cutting system on a semi-automatic spool. Combining comfort and convenience, this equipment is very practical for cutting weeds and borders along paths and walls. The machine adopts dimensions of 47 cm long for a width of 21,5 cm and a height of 13 cm with a weight of 1,9 kg.
With a cutting width of 23 cm, the trimmer is equipped with a powerful motor of 280 watts for a cutting speed of 12500 rpm. Secured by a protective casing, the cutting wire takes a diameter of 1.6 mm x 4 m, cutting continuously thanks to the semi-automatic spool. It has an aerodynamic design and a two-part handle, easy to assemble, with a protective cover and an additional height adjustable handle.
The Bosch AdvancedGrasscut 36 is a high-performance trimmer perfect for large garden maintenance. Powered by a 36V battery, it offers a cutting width of 30cm with a 2 wire cutting system.
176 £ on AmazonThe Bosch AdvancedGrassCut 36 trimmer offers a good compromise between ease of use and cutting efficiency. It is a garden tool that can be easily adapted to all circumstances. It has a two-wire cutting system with semi-automatic wire feed for uninterrupted operation. Equipped with a protective bracket, the trimmer offers a cutting width of 30 cm with a motor offering up to 8300 rpm.
The unit has an additional adjustable handle with Softgrip coating along the arm to ensure an optimal grip. It is powered by a 36 V/2 Ah Lithium-ion battery offering up to 1.5 hours of autonomy. Its advantage, it integrates a Syneon chip for an intelligent management of energy according to your use.
The GLC3630L20-QW is a quality gardening tool designed to trim edges and get rid of weeds. With a cutting width of 30 cm, it has a telescopic handle with a 180° pivoting head.
113 £ on AmazonThe Black+Decker GLC3630L20-QW is a cordless device powered by a 36V battery with a cutting width of 30 cm. Offering 35 minutes of autonomy, it has a powerful motor that provides two cutting speeds ranging from 6500 to 8500 rpm. The device also benefits from the Eco-Turbo mode system to preserve the battery's endurance for up to 90 minutes. In addition, it features E-Drive technology designed for the toughest weeds.
The unit adopts a 180° pivoting head to allow for a 2-in-1 function that is defined by cutting hard-to-reach grass and finishing the lawn edge. Equipped with two ergonomic handles, it has a telescopic handle that can be adjusted in height with a 35 cm extension to accommodate its users. Efficient, it has a rotating wire cutting system with a 1.5 mm cutting wire.
Any specific needs?
The best alternative for a quality trimmer
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Einhell GC-CT 18/24 Li Power X-Change
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Bosch Trimmer - EasyGrassCut 23
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Bosch Trimmer - AdvancedGrassCut 36
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Black+Decker GLC3630L20-QW
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The Einhell GC-CT 18/24 trimmer is ideal for fast progress and proper results. Its cutting width and powerful motor ensure a perfect cut and an optimal finish.
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For a very affordable price, enjoy a trimmer that makes your life easier when it comes to garden maintenance with the Bosch EasyGrasscut 23. Highly efficient, it ensures a precise and neat cut using rotating wires.
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The Bosch AdvancedGrasscut 36 is a high-performance trimmer perfect for large garden maintenance. Powered by a 36V battery, it offers a cutting width of 30cm with a 2 wire cutting system.
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The GLC3630L20-QW is a quality gardening tool designed to trim edges and get rid of weeds. With a cutting width of 30 cm, it has a telescopic handle with a 180° pivoting head.
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Cutting system
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Plastic blade
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Rotating wire - Mono filament
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Rotating wire - Double filament
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Rotating wire - Mono filament
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Power supply
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18V battery
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Electric cable 280 watts
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36V battery
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1 interchangeable 36 V 2 Ah Lithium-ion battery
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Width of cut
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24cm
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23 cm
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30cm
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30 cm/1.6 mm
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Cutting speed
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8500rpm
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12500 rpm
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8300rpm
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6500-8500 rpm
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Weight
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1.7kg
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1.9 kg
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4.9kg
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3.5 kg
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The size of the yard determines the type of trimmer to use. For a yard of less than 250 square meters, you can use an electric trimmer if there is an outlet nearby. Otherwise, it is advisable to choose a cordless trimmer. For areas larger than 250 m², you can consider using a thermal model.
This is especially true if your garden is larger than 450 m². Finally, you can use a manual trimmer if the yard you're going to work on is less than 60 m².
According to the trimmers, there are trimmer heads with nylon wire and trimmer heads using steel blades. The former are found on corded and cordless edgers. The latter are mainly used by thermal trimmers and brushcutters. Also consider the width of cut, ranging from 25 to 46 cm.
For regular maintenance of a garden of less than 60 m², you will need a 300 W trimmer. If you need to cut dense grass and weeds, a tool between 400 and 700 W is best. If it's small brush and shrubbery, you'll have a choice of a thermal or electric trimmer with at least 700 W.
The round wire is used to cut soft grass. For tougher grass, choose a square wire. You should also know that the thicker the wire, the less likely it is to break. The width of the wire is 1 to 3 mm and the spools are 5 to 15 m long. Finally, knives and blades are stronger. Manufacturers reserve them for rare high-end trimmers.
This
criterion affects ergonomics and maneuverability. Lightweight means less strenuous use.
Keep in mind, however, that there is a reason why trimmers are heavy. Heavy weight often means heavy efficiency. Electric models weigh 1.5 to 4.5 kg. Thermal models weigh up to 30 pounds.
The 90° swivel cutting head makes it easier to reach inaccessible corners. It allows vertical as well as horizontal cuts. The telescopic handle can be adjusted in height according to your height. For longer use, a wider handle is better.
For clumsy users, it is advisable to choose a trimmer with a guard. This will protect you from splashes and prevent you from cutting your feet. Finally, wear a noise-cancelling helmet, boots and protective eyewear.
Single wire trimmer
Prepare the spare wire. Make sure the thickness fits the spool, the wire is between 10 and 25 feet long, and the trimmer is turned off. For models with a gearbox, let it cool down to prevent accidents.
Remove the cap on the rotor head. If you have trouble doing this, ask the manufacturer for advice rather than insisting. Look for the thread starter hole on the spool. Insert the end of the thread and turn in the direction of the arrows.
Wind the thread in straight rows, otherwise it may jam. When only 12 to 15 cm of thread remain, wedge it into the spool to hold it in place. Align the inner and outer notches, put the spool back on, pull the thread out and through the outer notch. Finally, replace the cap.
Double Wire Trimmer
For the first few steps, this method corresponds to the previous one. The difference is that to change the line on a double line trimmer, you must find the starter holes on the spool. Insert the end of the first length of wire into one of the holes and wind it in the direction of the arrows.
Make sure you have clean, straight rows so you don't jam the thread. When you have 12 to 15 cm of thread left, wedge it into the notch on the spool to hold it in place. Proceed in the same way with the second thread. If done correctly, the ends of the thread should be on opposite sides of the spool to line up with the eyelets on the outside of the head.
Pull the wires out of the notches. Feed them through the eyelets on the outside of the head. Replace the spool and feed the wires through the notches to make sure they come out smoothly. Replace the cap.
High-Speed Trimmer
With the wire cut and the motor turned off, rotate the cap. This should align the arrows with the grommets. To be sure, check to see if you can see light coming through the grommets.
Pass the end of one of the wires through the first eyelet. If done correctly, it should come out the other side of the head. Hold both ends and pull them together to align the two sides. Turn the head clockwise until 12 to 15 cm of wire is exposed.
Some useful tips
Cut the end of the wire at a slight angle if you have trouble getting it to fit through the starter hole on the spool. Do not force anything. It's best to ask the vendor's technical support or a more experienced user for advice.
Feel free to clean the trimmer while you are disassembling its head. To do this, wipe it down with a cloth. Removing the trimmer head is also the best time to lubricate the mechanical parts. Depending on the model, the spool and bearing may need lubrication.
Many edger manufacturers suggest that their tools will last longer because they are made of carbon steel. Some even use this argument to justify high prices. But you should know that technically, any steel material is carbon steel!
Manual, electric or thermal? The choice of the type of trimmer will depend on the size of the task to be done.
In the age of all-electricity, some people may be surprised to find a manual trimmer. Far from being an outdated tool, it offers 2 advantages that electric and thermal trimmers do not: lightness, quality of cut and simplicity. There is no wire to replace or oil mixture to prepare. It is as ecological and silent as it is easy to store and maintain.
However,it will be more physical to use compared to other types of trimmers
. Generally, you have to crush the blade with your foot to cut the edge. On small areas, this is fine. On areas larger than 100 square meters, it's a different story. The manual edger is just as practical as the other types. It's mainly used to trim small defects on the edges.
This is
the most popular type. The corded model is suitable for medium-sized gardens. Its power varies from 150 to 1,000 W. This type of appliance islimited by the reach of the power cable and the proximity of an electrical outlet
. However, it is suitable for regular lawn maintenance. The cordless trimmer runs on batteries. Its power and autonomy are limited.
It is lighter than thermal trimmers and less physical than manual trimmers. Bring spare batteries if you're working on a large enough area. Use them mostly for trimming small gardens, although some excellent models can be used on medium-sized gardens. A quality electric trimmer takes up less space than a thermal model and is better suited to medium-sized gardens than a manual model.
The thermal trimmer is a tool for the pros. It's used forlandscaping or for working on a larger-than-average garden. It offers enough power to get rid of tall weeds and very thick grass. The thermal trimmer can have a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine. Either way, it will make a lot of noise and will need to be maintained.
However, the power range of 500 to 1500 W allows the more powerful ones to be used as a brushcutter. You can use it all day, as long as you refill it. It has excellent durability if properly maintained. Note that the device can weigh up to 9 kg. This type of trimmer is mainly intended for professionals. Those with a large garden would also be wise to buy one.
The cordless trimmers are powered by 18 or 36V lithium-ion batteries. Charging time varies from 1 to 3 hours for a 30 to 60 minute runtime. Spare batteries are required for extended use. In most cases, you can use the battery to power other gardening tools of the same brand or take the batteries from another tool of the same brand.
The edger, generally known as a "rotofil" or grass trimmer, is one of the easiest gardening tools to use. It focuses on the comfort and safety of its user. Regardless of the type of model chosen (corded electric, cordless, thermal or manual), the device allows for greater maneuverability and lightness.
It consists of a straight or curved metal shaft, one or two ergonomic handles as well as a trigger and a grass deflector. If the model you have is equipped with a cutting shoe, you will easily obtain a more uniform cutting height.
As a complement to the mower, an edger is mainly used to cut weeds in areas where the first tool cannot reach. Available in all price ranges, it does not present any budgetary constraints. It is mainly used for small finishing jobs on flat or sloping surfaces. Thus, it will not be possible to use it in case you have shrubs, tall grass and hard vegetation in your garden.
Popular with professional gardeners, the brushcutter is better suited to a variety of tools like a blade and a spool of wire, making it more versatile. It is admittedly quite heavy compared to other types of garden tools such as an edger.
However, the brushcutter proves to be an example of maneuverability since it has handlebars, handles and a harness optimizing the comfort of use. This is a major advantage that even sets it apart from an edger.
As the name implies, a brushcutter is used to "clear" brush. Thermal models offer more power, not to mention their ability to weed without a hitch, whether the land is maintained or not. Plus, it gets rid of tall grass and brambles with ease. The brushcutter is distinguished by the level of comfort it offers.
The trimmer is a finishing tool whose main role is to enhance the aesthetics of your lawn or green space. It lacks versatility since you cannot replace its cutting head with another tool.
On the contrary, the brushcutter does a much better job in this area. It is not only used for mowing, but also for cutting tall grass and thick, hard stems. Finishing work? It will take care of that with the greatest of ease. In short, if you're looking for a multi-purpose tool, you're better off looking at the brushcutter.
But if you just need a finishing tool, an edger will do the trick.
To maintain the garden
The edger is the ultimate gardening tool designed specifically to cut weeds without too much effort. It does its job wonderfully in terms of finishing, cutting (driveway edges, flower beds...). It is also the most suitable device if you are looking to perfect the mowing of your lawn and access difficult areas.
Easy to use equipment
You don't need any special knowledge to use an edger. This tool is easy to handle and secure and is very light. It is equipped with an ergonomic handle and often a telescopic stick to make trimming at height easier. Thanks to the protective casing on the cutting head, you can limit the risk of splashing to a minimum.
Models available for all types of terrain
The corded model is ideal if your land is no larger than 250 m² and there is a source of electricity nearby. For freedom of movement, choose the cordless trimmer. If the area to be mowed is much larger than 250 m², we recommend the use of a thermal trimmer.
Low noise level
Generally speaking, cordless models in particular are known to be quiet. This is the ideal tool if you don't want to be bothered by noise pollution during your cutting and finishing work. Although powerful and capable of cutting thicker branches, the thermal trimmer is the loudest.
Cordless trimmers: freedom of movement
Choose a cordless model like the Bosch UniversalGrassCut 18-260 for a perfect finish. You don't have to use an extension cord if your yard is large enough. There is no risk of cutting the cables. You will also have total freedom of movement, which optimises the speed of maintenance.
In our opinion, the best brands of trimmer in 2022 are :
The American brand is known worldwide for its inexpensive DIY and gardening tools. Founded by Duncan Black and Alonzo G. Decker, Black+Decker developed the first power tool in 1916. Since then, it has continued to innovate to become a must-have. In 2012, Black+Decker merged with Stanley to create a global giant. The group also owns other brands such as Facom, Baldwin, Dewalt, MacTools, Bostitch or Porter Cable.
The German giant produces household appliances, DIY tools, gardening tools, industrial machinery, automotive parts and many others. Founded in Stuttgart in 1886, Bosch has grown steadily. It has become the largest company in Germany. With 40% of its staff based in Germany, Bosch is the quintessential German company.
This Japanese brand is one of the most dynamic and innovative in power tools, stationary tools and gardening tools. Ryobi is famous for its drills, lawnmowers, battery-powered chain saws and jigsaws. It also manufactures cordless electric trimmers. Founded in 1943 in Japan, Ryobi is a subsidiary of TechTronic Industries, which also owns the AEG brand.
Little known to the general public, except for do-it-yourselfers, Makita is nevertheless an essential reference in terms of tools. This Japanese giant founded in 1915 is the world leader in power tools. This development has been possible thanks to the brand's research and development department, which has filed more than 600 patents for more than a thousand referenced tools. Makita also has 23 subsidiaries, including the German brand Dolmar.
The Gardena brand has belonged to the Swedish Husqvarna group since 2007. But even before it was bought, it was already a global reference in gardening tools. Based in Ulm, Germany, it offers, among other things, watering systems, pumps, tools for lawn and tree care and soil cultivation. It is represented in more than 80 countries worldwide.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Adopt the right basic technique
To get the best cutting results, press the throttle steadily and be sure to mow as close to the ground as possible. Also, move back and forth in the same direction as your engine's revolutions.
Remember to mow in two stages
As tall grass is a bit difficult to work on, it's best to mow it in two stages. In a first motion to the right, cut the top part of the grass first. Then, in a reverse motion, cut the lower part. Repeat until you reach the desired height.
Work efficiently on slopes
When mowing on a slope, use the strip method. Start work on a strip parallel to the slope. Then retrace your steps, and mow the next strip. This way, the cut grass will always fall back onto the previously mowed strip and you will have no trouble cleaning up.
Maintain the cutting wire properly
To maintain the flexibility of the cutting line and increase its life, it should be moistened regularly. Before using the unit, place the cutting line in a bucket of water for at least 24 hours. If you haven't used the spool for a long time, you should even unwind the line completely and moisten it for 2 days.
Don't cut your grass too short in summer
During the summer, your lawn needs to be protected from the high heat. So make sure you don't cut it too frequently and keep it at least 8 cm long. This will help prevent yellowing of your lawn, and will promote its rooting.
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