You want that perfectly manicured lawn, but the tool shed is getting crowded. The debate between edgers vs string trimmers is a common one for homeowners. Do you really need two separate machines to tame the turf?
We will break down the specific jobs these tools handle, how they function, and the pros and cons of each.
Read on to decide if you need to double up on equipment or if one tool can handle the whole job.
Key Takeaways
- Function: Edgers cut vertical lines to define boundaries; string trimmers cut horizontally to shorten grass.
- Mechanism: Edgers use a rigid metal blade, while trimmers use a flexible spinning nylon line.
- Versatility: String trimmers can double as edgers with the right technique, but edgers are single-purpose tools.
- Results: Dedicated edgers provide a cleaner, deeper “trench” look that trimmers often struggle to replicate.
What’s the Difference Between Edgers Vs String Trimmers?
While both tools keep your yard looking sharp, they attack the grass from different angles. Here is what makes them unique.
Edgers
Lawn edgers are precision tools designed to create boundaries. You use these along hardscapes like driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
An edger uses a vertical metal blade to cut through thick grass roots and soil. This creates a physical gap between your lawn and the concrete.
You will typically find three types of edgers:
- Manual Edgers: These look like shovels with a half-moon blade. They are cheap and quiet but require serious elbow grease.
- Walk-Behind Edgers: These look like mini lawn mowers. They are powerful and stable but take up more storage space.
- Stick Edgers: These resemble string trimmers but feature a vertical blade at the bottom.
String Trimmers
String trimmers, also known as weed eaters or whackers, act as the finishing crew. You use them to cut grass that your mower cannot reach.
Instead of a blade, these tools use a flexible nylon line spinning at high speeds. This line whips through grass and weeds around obstacles like trees, mailboxes, and fences.
You can choose between gas trimmers for raw power or electric string trimmers for a quieter, lighter experience.
Bottom Line
Think of it like this: An edger cuts a vertical line into the ground to separate the lawn from the path. A string trimmer cuts the grass horizontally to lower its height. Edgers define the shape; trimmers clean up the mess.
When to Use an Edger
You should grab the edger when you want to establish a crisp, defined border. Lawn mowers cannot cut flush against concrete without risking blade damage, so the grass tends to grow over the side.
An edger slices through that overgrowth and creates a “trench” effect. This prevents grass roots from invading your flower beds or cracking your walkways. While it does not improve the biological health of the grass, it drastically improves curb appeal.
When to Use a String Trimmer
The string trimmer comes out immediately after you mow. You will use it to manicure areas where the mower deck was too bulky to fit. This includes spaces under decks, around garden gnomes, or along uneven fence lines.
You can also use a trimmer to tackle tall weeds on rough terrain before mowing. If you have a steep hill or a ditch, the string trimmer is your best friend.
Top Tip
Always wear safety glasses and long pants. String trimmers spin at high velocities and will kick up rocks, mulch, and debris.
Edgers vs String Trimmers: Pros and Cons
You might be tempted to buy both, but let’s look at the specific advantages and drawbacks to see what fits your budget and storage space.
Edgers
Pros
Here are the benefits of owning a dedicated edger:- Creates professional, deep separation lines.
- Prevents root intrusion onto walkways.
- Metal blades are durable and handle thick overgrowth easily.
- Walk-behind models are very stable and easy to control.
Cons
Here are the downsides to consider:- It is a “unitasker” (it only does one job).
- Motorized versions are generally heavier and more expensive.
- Manual versions are physically exhausting on large properties.
String Trimmer
Pros
Here is why string trimmers are a household staple:- Extremely versatile for trimming, edging, and mowing small patches.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight corners.
- Replacement line is cheap and easy to find.
- Battery-powered options are quiet and eco-friendly.
Cons
Here are a few negatives to keep in mind:- Can accidentally “scalp” (damage) the lawn if held too low.
- Nylon lines break frequently against hard surfaces.
- Flying debris is a higher risk compared to guarded edgers.
Can I Use a String Trimmer As an Edger?
Yes, you can. In fact, many professional landscapers use high-powered string trimmers to edge lawns to save time. However, it takes practice to get a straight line without gouging the dirt.
Follow these steps to flip your trimmer into “edger mode”:
- Flip the trimmer head 90 degrees so the string spins vertically (like a Ferris wheel) rather than horizontally (like a helicopter).
- Align the string path with the gap between the grass and the concrete.
- Walk slowly along the hard surface, keeping the trimmer steady. Let the string chip away the overhanging grass and a small amount of soil.
- Keep the debris shield pointed toward your body to deflect flying rocks away from your face.
FAQs
How Do You Use a String Trimmer Like a Pro?
To use a trimmer efficiently, walk in the direction that ejects debris away from your path. Keep the trimmer head level with the ground and use the very tip of the string to cut. Forcing the head into the grass slows the motor and results in an uneven ragged cut.
How Often Should You Edge Your Lawn?
You should edge your lawn every time you mow during the peak growing season. Regular maintenance prevents the grass roots from hardening over the concrete, making the job quick and easy. In slower growing months, you can edge every second or third mow.
How Can I Edge My Lawn Without an Edger?
If you do not want to buy a power tool, you can use a half-moon edger (manual tool), a flat-head shovel, or even a sharp gardening knife. These methods are labor-intensive but give you a clean, precise finish without the noise of a motor.
Should You Edge Before or After You Mow?
It is generally better to edge and trim before you mow. This knocks down the tall weeds and throws debris onto the lawn, which your mower will then vacuum up or mulch for a cleaner final look.
How Deep Should You Edge Your Lawn?
A depth of two inches is standard for most lawns. This provides a distinct shadow line that enhances the visual separation between the grass and the path. Going deeper than three inches risks destabilizing the soil or cutting into utility lines.
What is the Best Brand of Edge Trimmer?
We like the Worx 12-Amp Lawn Edger for homeowners. It balances power and usability with an adjustable blade depth and a guide wheel that makes it easy to stay on track.
Are There Tools That Do Both?
Yes, many modern “combo” trimmers feature a rotating head or a detachable shaft. This allows you to swap a string trimmer attachment for a metal edger blade, giving you two tools in one unit to save space and money.
Edger Vs Trimmer: The Verdict
So, which one deserves a spot in your garage?
If you want those crisp, professional lines that make neighbors jealous, a dedicated edger is the right choice. It handles thick roots and creates a defined trench that a string line just cannot replicate.
However, the string trimmer is the more versatile workhorse. You need it for the weekly cleanup around trees, fences, and flower beds.
If you can only afford one, buy a high-quality string trimmer and learn to tilt it for edging. If you want the perfect lawn, invest in both.
