Unruly grass around sidewalks and nooks and crannies in your yard are easier to address with a weed eater, but which model is the best battery powered weed eater under 200?
With so many brands and models on the market today it can be tough to pick. The best depends on the user.
It’s a model that you can easily operate, it’s the right size for maneuvering, it has a long-lasting battery and it is a dependable unit that won’t let you down when you need it the most.
We’ve prepared a guide that lays out the most important features to look for to find the best battery powered weed eater under 200.
We point out the most important considerations to make so you will become an expert on knowing what to look for and what to avoid when shopping for an inexpensive weed eater.
We follow this with reviews of the top-rated models to highlight the differences and give you options to find the ideal week eater for your situation.
Table of Contents
Battery Powered Weed Eater Buyers Guide
This buyer’s guide is intended to give you straight information on the common brands including which are best and which to stay away from, which are high end, and which are low end.
We also look at battery types and discuss what you need to know about them, and how the battery will affect performance. Read on to learn the nuts and bolts of a weed eater and what makes the device good or bad.
Brands
The most common brands are DeWalt, Toro, Black & Decker, Ryobi, and Worx. There are a few others out there. While these are the most reputable on the market, each is known for offering areas where it excels.
Ryobi, Milwaukee, and DeWalt are on the higher end of quality but they are also generally more expensive. Toro is an established moderate brand with decent ratings and Black & Decker is usually more affordable with satisfactory, but not the best quality.
Battery Types
There are three main battery types in battery-powered weed eaters. These are Lithium-Ion, Nickel Metal Hydride, and Nickel Cadmium.
- Ni-cad (Nickel Cadmium batteries are the least expensive, but they are heavier. They discharge more quickly than the other types and as the batter goes down with use, the performance of the trimmer goes down.
- Li-Ion (Lithium Ion) batteries are the most modern. They are available in a variety of voltages. This type is up to 50% lighter than the Nickel Cadmium type, so they reduce the overall weight of the weed eater. The advantage is that they don’t reduce the power output as the Ni-cad batteries do.
- Nickel Metal Hydride batteries are rechargeable, like the other 2 types, but there is a limit of 5 years or less on the life of the battery before it will need to be replaced. They can take hundreds of recharges during this time, however. The advantage of this battery type is that it can tolerate much lower temperature extremes than the other two without damage to performance
Battery Voltage
Voltage is the way the battery is measured, and it tells you how many calls are in the battery back. The more cells the higher the battery capacity.
Most types of rechargeable batteries are available in different voltage levels. The higher the voltage, the more power you have for enhancing trimmer performance.
The voltage for Li-Ion ranges between 18V and 40V. Keep in mind the higher the voltage the more power.
Battery Capacity/Size
The battery capacity is represented in terms of aH or amps. The combination of voltage and amps is the amount of power the battery will have and the higher combinations of both results in longer run time.
Budget
It’s not difficult to find a high-quality battery powered weed eater for under $200 if you’re shopping for a unit that works for residential use.
Homeowners shouldn’t have much trouble, but commercial operators will not have much luck as the heavy-duty professional use weed eaters start at $250 and go up from there.
When budgeting, go for the unit that offers the most useful features for your situation, for the lowest price but go with a brand that is known for quality and dependability.
If you buy a cheaper unit that is known for failure, you’re likely to be disappointed with performance and longevity.
Trimmer Design
Some weed eaters are made with a straight shaft and others have a curved shaft. Some homeowners prefer the curved shaft because it makes the device easier to maneuver into tight places, while others prefer the straight shaft.
Guard Quality
The guard is the part of the weed eater that should be placed in the front. It is there for your protection. Make sure that the guard is sturdy and large enough to deflect debris away from you during operation.
Brushless Motor
Weed eaters with a brushless motor are preferred over the others. They require less maintenance and in general, they last longer, they are more powerful, and you usually have a longer run time. They have a longer life when you have a moderate to the large-sized yard.
Vibration
Look for a weed eater that has vibration control. More modern units feature designs that lower uncomfortable vibration to ease fatigue when using the unit to cut grass.
Line Diameter
The line diameter is the gauge or width of the string that does the actual cutting. It is recommended that you go with a thicker line diameter because it holds up better and it is more powerful for cutting thick grass and weeds.
The range typically starts at 0.080 inches and goes up. We recommend a line diameter of 0.095 at a minimum
Cutting Swath
The cutting swatch for the best battery powered weed eater under $200 should be at least 15 inches, and more if you can find one within your budget.
The average range for residential models is between 15 to 17 inches. The wider the swath, the faster you finish your trimming tasks.
Run Time
The run time is important and the amount you need depends on the size of your yard. On average it takes between 15 to 30 minutes to trim a residential yard.
A larger space requires more time. Higher voltage and amperage systems give you a longer run time so check the voltage of the battery and go with the size that will be large enough to finish trimming tasks in one sitting.
Weight
Lighter units are preferred over heavier ones because packing a weed eater around the yard and maneuvering it can become exhausting. It’s best to avoid the heavier models because your arms will become fatigued faster.
Service Life
The service life of a battery is the number of times that it can be charged, discharged, and recharged before it will affect the capacity. Typically, a battery has between 300 to 500 cycles prior to dropping the charging capacity it 80% or below.
Warranty
The warranty is the manufacturer’s guarantee that the product will be free of defects and it is the contract that requires replacement or refund if the product fails to work as advertised or has any defects within the warranty period.
Top 7 Best Battery Powered Weed Eaters Under $200
We’ve chosen the 7 best battery powered weed eaters under $200 to review. Here you’ll find important facts that can help you to decide which brand and model will be the most suitable for your situation.
We include what we like about each, along with potential drawbacks, outstanding features and how they can be beneficial, and who would benefit the most from the particular product.
1. Craftsman 60V Weedwacker String Trimmer & Edger – Best Overall
Our pick for the best overall battery powered weed eater is the Craftsman V60 Weedwacker String Trimmer & Edger on Amazon. The price is just under $200 and it features a brushless motor with extended run time.
It’s packed with useful premium features in its price range including a 2.5 Ah battery pack and a 2-speed switch that gives it a power boost when needed.
This is for anyone who needs a good battery-powered trimmer for small to large yards. We also appreciate the ergonomics of the design that includes an adjustable pole length to reduce back strain.
Other features include a line diameter of 0.080 with easy to find replacement spools. The warranty on this unit is under a 4-year limited warranty agreement.
What I like:
- This is a powerful unit that has a long run time
- The telescoping shaft makes it easy to adjust to the ideal length
- The bump feed system automatically delivers fresh line for a 15-inch cutting swath to get the job done faster and more efficiently
What I don’t like:
- It’s a little heavy
Overall, this is one of the best weed eaters on the market today for under $200. It’s loaded with useful features. We like the large 15-inch cutting swath that makes trimming jobs more efficient and faster. The extra-long run-time is another bonus feature.
2. PowerSmart 20 Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer & Edger – Best Budget
The PowerSmart 20 Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon is the best budget battery powered weed eater that is available for a cost around $60.
The most outstanding feature is the fast-charging battery that completes a charge in just 1 hour. It’s great for anyone on a budget who can’t afford to spend a lot for a quality battery powered weed eater.
Other useful features include a 2 in 1 trim or edge. This unit can convert from a trimmer to an edger in seconds. The handle is ergonomic for comfort, and the trimmer is easy to operate.
What I like:
- The automatic feed spool keeps fresh line coming or fast trimming without interruption
- It’s really light and comfortable to use. It weighs just 7.5 pounds.
- The warranty of 2 years is good for the low price of the trimmer
What I don’t like:
- The cutting swath is only 10 inches
This is the best budget-priced battery-powered weed eater on the market today. PowerSmart is a little-known brand, which is a drawback, but the unit has good reviews for its quality and effectiveness.
3. Worx GT Revolution 10V Power Share 12″ Grass Trimmer, Edger & Mini Mower – Runner Up
Our best runner up is the Worx GT Revolution 10V Power Share Trimmer on Amazon. For the price, this unit is packed with useful features. It is a 3-in-1 unit that not only is a trimmer but also a mini mower and an edger in one device.
This is for homeowners with any size yard from small to larger, who have multiple trimming tasks to complete. It’s easy to convert the trimmer to the other 2 functions so it’s like having 3 tools in one.
We like the push-button spool system that feeds the line without the need for bumping. The telescopic shaft is ergonomic. It also comes with edging wheels to hold the trimmer steady for straight lines.
The battery is powerful at 20 volts and 4.0 Ah. It also comes with a 90-degree head and flower guard to avoid cutting good plants accidentally.
What I like:
- The 12-inch cutting swath is great for smaller to medium yards
- It cuts quickly and efficiently
- The battery has a long-running time
- The safety guard is great for landscaping and protecting delicate plants
What I don’t like:
- The unit is a little heavy and can cause arm fatigue
This is our choice for the second-best battery powered weed eater under $200 because of its reasonable price and the useful features it offers.
Although the cutting swath is small, it is a powerful three in one trimmer that is versatile and can be used for a variety of different cutting and trimming tasks.
4. Greenworks 13-Inch 40V Cordless String Trimmer & Edger – Lightweight
The Greenworks 13-Inch 40V Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon is a combination trimmer and edger that comes equipped with a 2.0 AH/40-volt battery that offers moderate running time.
It’s ideal for anyone who has a small to the medium-sized yard and who prefers a lighter trimmer. This unit is lightweight and weighs under 10 pounds. It’s powerful for such a light unit.
The low cost makes it one of the most reasonably priced battery powered weed eaters under $200.
Other features that stand out are its cordless and gas-free design that makes it hassle-free. The unit is light, and it operates with the push of a button.
What I like:
- The single-button start is easy and reliable
- It comes with a pivoting head that makes it easier to get into tight areas
- Replacement spools are easy to find
- The battery has a long run time before it needs recharging
What I don’t like:
- The cutting swath is only 13 inches
Although the cutting swath is small, this is a great unit for trimming small yards. The battery life isn’t long, but it holds up for a good 20 minutes and it’s an excellent value for the cost.
We like the telescoping shaft that makes it easy to adjust for different user heights. It’s one of the lightest units that doesn’t sacrifice power for a lighter weight.
5. DEWALT DCST970B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer
The DEWALT DCST970B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon features a 0.080 diameter line with a 15-inch cutting swath.
The transmission is gear driven for the extra power to cut through the overgrowth. It’s ideal for anyone who has tough weeds and grasses that need trimming.
We like the variable trigger that offers control of the speed with a choice of high or low. This gives you added power when you need it or extended running time when you don’t.
What I like:
- The price is reasonable for a good quality weed eater
- It’s powerful and cuts efficiently
- You can control the power to make the battery last longer for lighter jobs
- It’s a strong brand name known for quality are reliability
What I don’t like:
- The line diameter is the minimum
We chose this trimmer because it’s lightweight and ergonomic with a balanced design for greater ease in maneuverability. It has a good battery life with a 60 Volt battery and it’s easy to use. It’s lightweight so it won’t wear out your arms.
6. Greenworks Pro 16-inch 80V Cordless String Trimmer
The Greenworks Pro 16-inch 80V Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon is an amazing value for a large 16-inch cutting swath. It’s for anyone who has a larger yard and needs the efficiency of a bigger cutting swath.
We also love the fact that this is a powerful trimmer that accommodates an 80-volt power pack. It runs for up to 45 minutes when you use a fully charged 2.0 Ah battery. Loading the head of the trimmer is fast and easy and it has a self-winding spool head
What I like:
- Fast and efficient cutting and trimming
- Brushless motors for high performance
- It’s compatible with most gas attachments for greater versatility
What I don’t like:
- It doesn’t come with the battery. You have to purchase this separately
Although this unit doesn’t come with the battery, it is low priced enough to still make it affordable. It’s one of the larger heads with a big cutting swath for larger yards.
It’s powerful and reliable thanks to the brushless motor. This is one of the best quality battery powered weed eaters in the under $200 class. It’s hard to find a 16-inch model for this price.
7. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 15-inch Cordless String Trimmer – Fast Charging
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 15-inch Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon comes with a 40-volt 2 Ah lithium-ion battery with a fast charger that comes in the package.
It’s ideal for impatient homeowners who don’t want to wait for hours for a battery to charge. Other great features include the brushless motor that is powerful and reliable with longer run time.
What I like:
- It comes with an ergonomic telescopic pole for adjusting the length
- You can control the speed of the motor with trigger control and 2-speed options of high or low
- The battery is compatible with other Scott products for greater versatility
What I don’t like:
- The line diameter is thin at just 0.065 mm.
We like the 15-inch cutting swath for faster and more efficient grass trimming capacity. The battery charges quickly so you won’t need to wait around long to re-energize the trimmer.
The only major drawback is the thin line diameter, but it’s still good for light to moderate trimming tasks.
Advantages of Using Battery Powered Weed Eater Over Gas Powered Weed Eater
There are a few advantages of using a battery-powered weed eater over a gas-powered model. Advancements in technology have made battery-powered units far more efficient and powerful than they were in the past.
Batteries also last longer, and battery-powered units can hold their own against gas-powered trimmers. Here are just a few of their advantages:
Easier Maintenance
Gas-powered trimmers require maintenance on the engine, and you must constantly fuel them up with smelly and messy gas and oil.
The advantage over battery-powered trimmers is that they are easier to maintain and the power source is cleaner, and it doesn’t require the hassle of pouring fuel into a gas tank. You simply plug the charger into a power source and let it power up.
Quieter
Battery-operated trimmers are not as loud as their gas-powered counterparts. You can get the job done without the need for wearing ear protection. Some gas-powered units are so loud that they can damage your hearing.
Cleaner Power Source
Battery-powered trimmers have absolutely zero emissions. They are a cleaner power source than gas-powered trimmers that emit carbon pollution into the environment.
Helpful Tips To Find The Best Battery Powered Weed Eater Under 200
- Compare features to find the trimmer that offers the most suitable performance for your situation
- Look for quality in performance this includes opting for a brushless motor over a brushed motor. It will hold up longer over time.
- Check the warranty to ensure that the manufacturer will stand behind the product to protect you from defects or performance issues during the warranty time period. If a company won’t stand behind its product it might be better to pass and go with one that does when choosing the brand.
- Consider battery life and the power of the battery because this will affect the run-time of the trimmer
Final Thoughts
Once you know what to look or in a weed eater, it’s easier to make an informed decision. The best battery powered weed eater under $200 is one that has enough power and strength to complete your trimming tasks.
Consider the weight. Stronger batteries are usually heavier, but if weight is an issue you might want to consider foregoing battery size for a lighter weight.
We’ve provided you with reviews of the 7 best battery powered weed eater under 200 to choose from with a variety of different brands, models and features to help make it easier for you to find the ideal trimmer for your unique needs.