Grass Trimmer Buying Guide 2026:
What Really Matters?

1. Brush Cutter, Grass Trimmer or Strimmer?

These three terms are often confused. Here are the most important differences:

Grass Trimmer

A grass trimmer (also edge trimmer) is light and suitable for maintaining lawn edges and small green areas. It works almost exclusively with nylon line and has a straight or curved shaft. Ideal for gardens up to approx. 400 m².

Brush Cutter

A true brush cutter has a straight shaft and can use both line and blades (plastic or metal). It is more powerful and suitable for denser vegetation like weeds, nettles or thin undergrowth. Recommended for gardens over 500 m² with uneven ground.

Strimmer / Grass Hook

A strimmer is essentially the same as a brush cutter, often with a slightly stronger motor. The term is often used interchangeably, but refers to a version with hard blade or metal blade for very dense grass, reeds or young shrubs.

2. Battery, Petrol or Corded?

Cordless Trimmers – The Best Choice for Most

• Instant start, no pulling needed
• No fuel mixing
• Significantly quieter than petrol models
• No emissions during use
• Low maintenance (no oil changes, no carburettor)
• Batteries can be shared with other tools of the same brand

Petrol Trimmers

• Unlimited runtime (only limited by tank size)
• Highest power for professional use
• More expensive to buy and maintain
• Loud and emission-intensive
• Not recommended for home users

Corded Trimmers

• Inexpensive to buy
• No battery runtime limits
• Cable restricts freedom of movement
• Only recommended for small gardens

3. The 6 Most Important Buying Criteria

1. Battery Voltage and System

It is best to choose a trimmer whose battery system you already use or plan to expand. 18V is sufficient for small gardens, 36V (as Twin-Pack with two 18V batteries or as its own system) offers more power for larger areas.

2. Cutting Width

For small gardens 24–28 cm is enough. For medium-sized gardens we recommend 30 cm. For larger areas 33–35 cm saves considerably more time.

3. Weight

The weight of the device (without battery) is crucial for comfort. Under 2 kg is ideal for longer sessions. Heavier devices tire faster – for larger models a shoulder strap is useful.

4. Motor Type: Brushed vs. Brushless

Entry-level models use brushed motors – cheaper but higher wear. Brushless motors are more efficient, more durable and get more runtime from the battery. Clearly preferable for professional use.

5. Line Feed

Manual feed (tapping on the ground) is cheaper but less convenient. Semi-automatic or automatic feed via button is more comfortable and recommended for regular use.

6. Ergonomics and Accessories

Look for an adjustable shaft (for users of different heights), a rotating motor head (for edge trimming) and ideally a flower guard (plant protection). Also check whether replacement accessories (line spools) are available cheaply.

4. Care and Maintenance

After Each Use

• Remove grass clippings and dirt from the guard
• Check line head for line length
• Remove battery and store in a cool place (not below 0 °C)

Seasonal Maintenance

• Clean line head and spool
• Store battery at 50–80 % charge over winter
• Clean ventilation slots on the motor
• Check screws and connections for tight fit

5. Our Recommendations by Use Case