Comparing grass trimmers and brush cutters

A grass trimmer cuts the edges that the lawn mower cannot reach: along borders, walls, posts and paving. A brush cutter is heavier and is made for tall grass, rough vegetation and nettles. On this page you can compare trimmers and brush cutters from, among others, Gardena, Makita, Bosch, Einhell and Husqvarna, with the current prices.

Trimmer or brush cutter?

For an ordinary garden with a lawn, a grass trimmer is enough. It is light and easy to steer, and many models have a rotating head to also trim vertical edges straight. A brush cutter has more power, often a handlebar or D-handle and sometimes a cutting blade instead of a cord. You choose this for large areas, ditch banks or an overgrown part of the garden.

What should you look out for?

• Drive: with a cord is affordable and light, with a battery you are free to move around. With cordless models, use the filter to see whether the battery is included.
• Cutting width: for trimmers usually 23 to 30 cm. The wider it is, the faster you are finished.
• Weight and grip: an adjustable shaft and an extra handle make the work lighter, especially for longer jobs.

Cord or blade

Most trimmers cut with a nylon cord. This is safe along walls and posts and is extended automatically or by tapping the head on the ground. Brush cutters can often also work with a metal cutting blade, which can handle thicker stems and young growth. When trimming and brush cutting, wear safety glasses and sturdy shoes, as stones and twigs can be thrown up. A carrying strap or shoulder strap distributes the weight of a heavy brush cutter over your body.

Combine a trimmer with a lawn mower for the lawn itself. You can find more tools at garden tools.