Sometimes a string trimmer just doesn’t cut it. Literally. A brush cutter can do what a string trimmer can’t, getting through stubborn, thick, tall, and overgrown weeds; brambles; grass; and more.
However, shopping for a brush cutter can be a little bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to using this powerful tool.
We’ve done the research, so you don’t need to. After studying what real customers are saying, expert advice, and applying our own insight, we’ve got a list of 10 of the best brush cutters to share.
- 58cc power and 7000 reps per minute
- Build of the machine puts you in control
- Has a quick start operation
- Easy start with just three pulls
- Equipped with flex cable drive
- Convert to brush saw blade
- Has a removable baffle
- Ergonomic and easy to use
- Easy storage and has adjustable handle
- Generous cutting capacity
- Comes with Briggs & Stratton engine
- More flexible pivoting deck
- Sharp, durable, and reversible blade
- Zip start carburetor for easy starting
- Straight shaft for more flexible reach
- Good for personal and professional use
- Handy shaft with extension pole
- Ergonomic grips on the handle
- Fast battery charging times
- Reverse rotation function
- Variable speed trigger
- Trimmer and brush cutter combo
- Full-crank engine for quick start up
- Ergonomic and easy to use
- 450-watt brushless motor
- Incredible user-friendly design
- Stainless steel 304 blades
- Starts up quickly and easily
- Adjustable cutting widths
- Ergonomic and comfortable
Product Reviews
Here are 10 of the best brush cutters on the market.
Coocheer 4-in-1 Brush Cutter
Best Gas Brush Cutter
This gas brush cutter ranks super high in power and versatility. First of all, it has a 58cc engine, one of the most powerful on the market.
It’s also a 4-in-1 tool with the ability to handle a variety of tasks. It comes with two dual-line bump feed heads for general string trimming. Then it also comes with a brush cutter blade and a circular saw blade to tackle various cutting tasks.
This includes trimming weeds, grass, shrubs, thick vegetation, bush and more.
What We Like
7000 RPM Engine
This engine is one of the most powerful. With 58cc power and 7000 reps per minute, this tool can help you do heavy-duty jobs in much less time. So if you want to get through yard work much more quickly, this tool can provide that for you.
You’re in Control
This was designed with you in mind. The build of this machine puts you in control, making sure that it’s easy to use and maneuver. This is down, first of all, to the U-shaped handle and slip-free grip. But it also comes with a shoulder strap, so you can balance and maneuver the machine super easily.
Easy Start
Get this up and running in no time. It has a quick start operation that allows you to pull start the machine with less resistance than its competitors. It also has an extra start rope and spark plug in case yours wears down.
What We Don't Like
Power Too High
For some folks, you may find the power is actually too high. This is more than double the average CC power on brush cutters. Some people found that it was more than necessary and created a mess. Do be careful because this high-power engine is more likely to throw the debris out around you.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 10.24 x 25.59 x 72.83 inches |
Weight | Not specified |
Cutting Width | 18 inches |
Blades | Brush cutter and circular saw blade |
Our Ratings
Echo 30.5 cc Brush Cutter
Most Powerful Brush Cutter
The Echo brush cutter is one of the most powerful on the market. Not quite the same level as the Coocheer at 58cc, but many people will prefer the Echo since the power is more contained and easy to manage. It has a 30.5cc professional-grade engine which is powerful, reliable, and performative.
What We Like
Easy Starting
Customers love how easy this is to start with just three pulls. It has a bellow-type intake which makes it easier to re-start when you need it.
Flex Cable Drive
The flex cable drive ensures that this brush cutter has incredible performance for cutting through your yard. But it also ensures low vibrations so you can use it for long periods of time without tiring.
Convert to Brush Saw Blade
When you need extra power, this converts to a 25mm saw blade. This is suitable for stubborn and more dense weeds, saplings, and growth in and around your yard.
What We Don't Like
High Price Point
Being about four times the price of the average brush cutter, this is a big investment. It may not be suitable for all budgets.
Includes Plastic Blade
This does come with a plastic blade as well as the circular saw blade. You may not find the plastic blade has the right power and durability that you’re looking for.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 71.2 x 20 x 27 inches |
Weight | 14.8 pounds |
Cutting Width | Up to 20 inches |
Blades | Plastic brush cutter and circular saw blade |
Our Ratings
PowerSmart Brush Cutter and String Trimmer
Best Handheld Brush Cutter
This handheld brushcutter also doubles as a string trimmer. Both are completely cordless due to being gas, which provides you with incredible power. Plus, being a 2-in-1 tool, you get versatility as well.
As a string trimmer, this comes with a 0.09-inch trimmer line. The brush cutter blade is 10 inches. You can convert from trimmer to brush cutter easily, making this a great compact tool to have for trimming edges and detailing around flower beds, patios, bushes, and more.
What We Like
Limited Debris
This machine comes with some cool safety features. It has a removable baffle that prevents debris from flying up. This ensures that you, and those around you, are safe while you operate this machine.
As for replacing the string, it’s safe and easy. Simply load it up into the trimmer head.
Ergonomic and Easy to Use
Being cordless, this is already easy to use. Many string trimmers are corded electric, ensuring there are no cords or wires to trip over. This also comes with a shock-absorbing design so that you can use it for longer without fatigue.
It also has an adjustable handle so you can suit it to your specific height. We also love the translucent gas tank so you can see when you need to top it up.
Easy Storage
With most parts being removable, it’s easy to store this even if you’re tight on space. Also, the handle is adjustable, so you can lower it if you need to.
What We Don't Like
Poor Instruction Manual
Unfortunately, the instruction manual for this product isn’t the most comprehensive or reliable. Some customers had issues figuring out all the details of this machine.
Heavy at 19 Pounds
This is one of the heavier brush cutters available. You may find it hard to lift and transport if you’re not super strong. It does come with a shoulder strap which definitely helps. But it’s worth pointing out the weight.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 44.9 x 10.6 x 10.4 inches |
Weight | 19.06 pounds |
Cutting Width | 10 inches |
Blades | Metal brush blade |
Our Ratings
DR Field and Brush Mower
Best Walk-Behind Brush Cutter
For a heavy-duty walk-behind brush cutter, we think you’ll like the sound of the DR Pro 26 option. It is a beast of a machine with 10.5 horsepower to cut through thick and stubborn grass, brush, and saplings up to 2 inches thick.
It’s also compatible with all DR attachments, making this a super versatile and worthwhile purchase.
What We Like
Generous Cutting Capacity
What exactly can this machine handle? Well, it has a 26-inch cutting width suitable for weeds and brush up to eight inches tall, saplings up to two inches thick and grass up to four inches tall.
Durable and Powerful Engine
On such an expensive machine, it’s important to check that it’s powerful and durable. This comes with a state-of-the-art Briggs & Stratton engine which features a 344cc overhead valve engine. This is protected by a cast-iron cylinder sleeve to ensure that your machine is protected throughout various elements over time.
Pivoting Deck
As you work, enjoy the pivoting deck, which clears the path as you go while ensuring great maneuverability. It’s more flexible than the competitors on the market. It will move from side to side, even over rough terrain, which ensures good traction and smoothness as you move.
What We Don't Like
Heavy and Cumbersome
At 268 pounds, this isn’t your average lightweight handheld brush cutter. This is a seriously heavy machine that some may struggle to push and maneuver around.
Hard to Change Gears
This has three different speed options, but some customers found it challenging to change gears. It’s hard to check which gear the machine is in. others found that some gears provided a really horrible screeching noise.
Product Specs
Type | Walk-behind |
Dimensions | 80.5 x 30.25 x 48.2 inches |
Weight | 268 pounds |
Cutting Width | 26 inches |
Blades | Thick cast iron with double-sealed bearings |
Our Ratings
Ryobi Full Crank Gas Brush Cutter
Best Attachment-Friendly Brush Cutter
Ryobi products are awesome because most are attachment-friendly, including this brush cutter! It works with Ryobi Expand-It universal attachments so you can experience a more versatile and flexible tool. Such attachments include a tiller, blower, or an edger.
This allows you to use one tool as the body with the flexibility to switch it up depending on the task at hand. Best of all, perhaps, you save money since you don’t need to buy a huge variety of tools.
What We Like
Sharp and Durable Blade
The cool thing about this blade is that it’s reversible. So if it starts to dull on one side, you can reverse it and use a fresh side. The steel blade is super sharp, too. It’s great for thick and stubborn weeds and brush.
Zip Start Carburetor
Get this machine up and running in no time with the zip start carburetor. This allows for easy starting. Less hassle, less stress, and less time wasted.
Straight Shaft
You may love the straight shaft on this machine which allows you to be more flexible with where you take it. It’s easier to navigate around and under obstacles thanks to the machine’s extended reach.
What We Don't Like
Loose Handle
It’s very annoying that the wing nut on the handle is made of plastic. This doesn’t allow it to get fully tight. Therefore, the handle is always kind of loose. However, you can replace the nut yourself with a metal one which will keep it in place.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 11 x 10 x 60 inches |
Weight | 17.18 pounds |
Cutting Width | 8 inches |
Blades | Tri-arc reversible steel |
Our Ratings
DEWALT Gas Brushcutter with Attachment Capability
Best Versatile Brush Cutter
Do you want a brush cutter that can do more? Then we think you’ll love the DEWALT gas brush cutter. It’s attachment friendly with interchangeable TrimmerPlus and Expand-It attachments which can be purchased separately.
Having an attachment-friendly tool such as this improves versatility. It’s nice having one tool body that you can use for a variety of tools. It saves both money and space.
What We Like
Good for Personal and Professional Use
This is a suitable choice whether you’re using this around your home yard or for work purposes. It has a commercial-grade engine with a full-crank that makes getting through tough weeds, grass, and other growth easier.
Handy Shaft
With a straight shaft, this allows you to get into hard-to-reach places without stress and fatigue. The shaft also comes with an extension pole which allows you to reach up to 12 feet. So if you want to cut through higher growth and branches, this is the tool to consider.
Ergonomic Handle
This tool is easy to maneuver and operate. Thanks to the ergonomic over-mold grips on the handle, you can keep a good grip even when using this for a long time. This also comes with a shoulder strap for your comfort and control.
What We Don't Like
125-Hour Engine
Keep in mind that the engine has been approved for 125 hours. That’s the expected lifespan of the engine. If you’re going to be using this for work, you will get through those hours pretty quickly. It also has a three-year warranty, so be sure to contact the manufacturer if your product starts to wear and tear within that time period anyway.
Narrow Cutting Width
The average cutting width usually sits between 8-18 inches. This one is only 5 inches. Being very narrow, it may take longer to get around your yard when using this compared to other options.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 11.5 x 10.5 x 60 inches |
Weight | 13.5 pounds |
Cutting Width | 8 inches |
Blades | Metal brush blade |
Our Ratings
Makita XRU16PT Brushless Cordless Kit
Most Ergonomic Brush Cutter
Customers appreciate how ergonomic this brush cutter kit is. It has an easy and ergonomic handle and a nice harness, allowing you to easily maneuver around your yard work. It features a bike handle design, which is super easy to grip.
The power is equivalent to a 30cc gas brush cutter but doesn’t include gas. This makes it easier to use and more eco-friendly. Besides emitting zero emissions, it’s also much quieter than a gas option, which neighbors will appreciate.
What We Like
Variable Speed Trigger
Control the cutting speed with a variable speed trigger. With three speed options up to 7,000 RPM, you have more options at your fingertips. You can also utilize the automatic mode so the unit shifts speeds when more power or running time is required.
Steel Drive Shaft
The unit includes a steel drive shaft, which has two incredible benefits. First, it reduces vibration so that you can comfortably hold the unit for longer without getting numb hands. Second, this ensures the entire unit is more durable, extending the lifespan.
Reverse Rotation Function
A cool feature of this unit is the reverse rotation function. In the event that the blade becomes tangled up with grass and weeds, you can reverse the blade to untangle it. This prevents you from having to remove the weeds manually. You can carry on with your work with much less hassle.
Fast Battery Charging Times
Quickly get back to work after speedy charging. These batteries can be recharged in as little as 25 minutes, with the longest (5.0 Ah battery) only taking 45 minutes. Spend less time waiting around and more time getting on with your important yard tasks.
What We Don't Like
Expensive Price Point
The unit is more expensive than other battery-powered options, which may make the Makita a little out of budget for some.
Not for Thicker Branches
The unit is excellent for grass, weeds, blackberry bushes, and more. However, it will struggle to cut branches and shrubs more than 1.5 inches thick.
Product Specs
Type | Electric handheld |
Dimensions | 75 x 9.8 inches |
Weight | 30 pounds |
Cutting Width | 9 inches |
Blades | Steel |
Our Ratings
Badger Gas Trimmer with Brush Cutter Blade
Best Budget Brush Cutter
This is one of the most affordable brush cutters on the market. So if you’re looking for something that isn’t going to break the bank — but is still good quality — we can recommend this.
It is a 26cc gas brush cutter that also doubles as a powerful grass trimmer. It also has a six-year warranty, so you know you’re getting your money’s worth, especially for an affordable option.
Something To Note
What We Like
Trimmer and Brush Cutter Combo
For the money, getting two tools in one here is absolutely phenomenal. This doubles as a grass trimmer and a brush cutter. So you can use it for detailing along garden edges as a string trimmer. But get to town on thicker grass, weeds, and brush by using the brush cutter head instead.
Full-Crank Engine
We love the full-crank engine on this machine. It lets you start the machine up quickly and easily. It also reduces emissions and makes the machine more fuel-efficient. This also comes with a vented aluminum casing to minimize vibrations and increase comfort.
Ergonomic and Easy to Use
We think you’ll love the ergonomic handle that’s covered with a soft grip for your comfort and ease of use. The handle also features the trigger set, so it’s within reach while you work. This is also a lightweight and compact machine that only weighs 11 pounds. So maneuvering it around your yard is much easier than some of the competitors.
What We Don't Like
Tricky Installation and Set-Up
Some customers found the instruction manual to be poorly written. It was difficult to install the machine and get to grips with all the different elements. A better instruction manual is definitely in order.
Cheap Design
With this being a budget-friendly option, the construction isn’t the most strong or durable. A few customers found that this started to wear and tear after a few weeks.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 10 x 8 x 57 inches |
Weight | 11 pounds |
Cutting Width | 17 inches |
Blades | Steel |
Our Ratings
Airbike Electric Brush Cutter Grass
Best Electric Brush Cutter
This electric brush cutter is a stellar choice for those wanting to forgo the gas options and the hazardous fumes that come with them.
This trimmer from Airbike is 21 volts which is nice and powerful. The strong, high-performance battery lasts for one hour, so you can get around the areas you need before the battery needs to be recharged.
Manufacture Tip
What We Like
450-Watt Brushless Motor
Despite being electric, this still has awesome power. It’s fully equipped with a 450-watt pure copper brushless motor which provides durable and impressive power with such a lightweight machine.
Incredible User-Friendly Design
The design of this tool was well thought out. Firstly, it has a telescoping handle that extends from 35.4 to 47.2 inches. This suits a range of different heights.
It also comes with buttons on the handle that are easy for you to reach while you work. You’ll also love the rotating baffle design, which prevents splashing and debris from throwing around while you work.
Lastly, you can adjust the angle of the brush cutter head to suit your working environment best.
Stainless Steel 304 Blades
This comes with two stainless steel 304 blades. They are versatile, allowing you to trim weeds, shrubs, and lawns with them. It also comes with a manganese steel circular saw blade for thicker shrubs and branches.
What We Don't Like
Battery Not Very Durable
While the battery life is long and suitable, the battery itself may not last the test of time. A few customers found that after a few uses, the battery was completely dud.
Narrow Cutting Width
The average cutting width usually sits between 8-18 inches. This one is only five inches. Because it’s so narrow, it may take longer to get around your yard when using this compared to other options.
Product Specs
Type | Electric handheld |
Dimensions | 33.8 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches |
Weight | 5.44 pounds |
Cutting Width | 5 inches |
Blades | Stainless steel brush cutter and circular saw |
Our Ratings
Troy-Bilt Gas Attachment Capable Brushcutter
Best Wide Brush Cutter
As well as the wide cutting path, this also comes with a string trimmer head making it a versatile tool. Not only that, it’s compatible with interchangeable TrimmerPlus and Expand-It attachments.
What We Like
Quick Easy Start
Designed with SpringAssist technology and Prime, Flip and Go mechanisms, you can start this brushcutter up quickly and easily. This makes it easier to pull-to-start as well as features a quick two-step starting program. Get to work in no time with this tool.
Adjustable Cutting Widths
As mentioned, this comes with an 18-inch cutting path. But if ever that’s too wide for you, you can adjust it from 14 inches, too. This allows flexibility when dealing with the task at hand.
Ergonomic and Comfortable
We think you’ll find this tool quite easy to use. It has a full-crank engine which reduces vibrations. It also has a straight shaft that allows you to navigate obstacles such as fence posts and bushes easily. Plus, it has a J-handle which makes this comfortable for both left- and right-handed users. Last but not least, enjoy the comfortable shoulder strap.
What We Don't Like
Lacking Sharpness
Some customers found that this struggled to cut through thicker growth such as vines. The power and sharpness of the blades are perhaps a bit lacking.
Product Specs
Type | Gas handheld |
Dimensions | 62.5 x 18 x 60 inches |
Weight | 13.5 pounds |
Cutting Width | 18 inches |
Blades | 4-tooth steel brush blade |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Type | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (lbs) | Cutting Width | Blades |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Coocheer 4-in-1 Brush Cutter | Gas Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 10.24 x 25.59 x 72.83″ | N/A | 18 inches | Brush cutter, circular saw blade |
Echo 30.5 cc Brush Cutter | Powerful Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 71.2 x 20 x 27″ | 14.8 lbs | Up to 20 inches | Plastic brush cutter, circular saw blade |
PowerSmart Brush Cutter | Handheld Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 44.9 x 10.6 x 10.4″ | 19.06 lbs | 10 inches | Metal brush blade |
DR Field and Brush Mower | Walk-Behind Brush Cutter | Walk-behind | 80.5 x 30.25 x 48.2″ | 268 lbs | 26 inches | Thick cast iron, double-sealed |
Ryobi Full Crank Gas Brush Cutter | Attachment-Friendly Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 11 x 10 x 60″ | 17.18 lbs | 8 inches | Tri-arc reversible steel |
DEWALT Gas Brushcutter | Versatile Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 11.5 x 10.5 x 60″ | 13.5 lbs | 8 inches | Metal brush blade |
Makita XRU16PT Brushless | Most Ergonomic | Electric handheld | 75 x 9.8″ | 30 lbs | 9 inches | N/A |
Badger Gas Trimmer | Budget Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 10 x 8 x 57″ | 11 lbs | 17 inches | Steel |
Airbike Electric Brush Cutter | Electric Brush Cutter | Electric handheld | 33.8 x 5.9 x 5.9″ | 5.44 lbs | 5 inches | Stainless steel brush cutter, circular saw |
Troy-Bilt Gas Brushcutter | Wide Brush Cutter | Gas handheld | 62.5 x 18 x 60″ | 13.5 lbs | 18 inches | 4-tooth steel brush blade |
Key Features to Look For
While we back all of these brush cutters, it’s down to personal preference which is best for you particularly. Check out these important details to decide which brush cutter to go for.
How to Maintain a Brush Cutter
With any big investment, it’s important to maintain it well so it lasts for longer and you get your money’s worth. Here are some top tips for maintaining your brush cutter’s condition.
- With 2-stroke models, make sure to add oil to the gas. With 4-stroke models, you won’t need to add oil to the gas. Always check with the manufacturer before doing either, just in case their instructions differ.
- Always drain the fuel tank if you’re going to be storing it for a while. If you don’t do this, the additives in the gas can separate, which will result in the machine needing a service.
- Always check the maximum cutting diameter of the blade. Usually, this is 2 inches. Whatever the maximum is, do not cut objects and obstacles bigger than this, or you could damage the blade.
- You will need to sharpen the cutter blades from time to time. Use an angle grinder or bench grinder to do this. Make sure to sharpen both sides of the blade.