I spent the last several months testing the best string trimmers across three different property sizes, from a tiny suburban quarter-acre to a two-acre lot with serious weeds. The goal was simple: figure out which weed eaters actually deliver on their promises and which ones fall flat after a few weeks of real use.
The string trimmer market has shifted dramatically toward battery power in 2026. What used to be a gas-only category now has cordless models that rival and sometimes beat their gas counterparts in cutting power. But with so many battery platforms, cutting widths, and line feed systems to choose from, picking the right one feels overwhelming.
Our team compared seven of the most popular trimmers head-to-head, tracking runtime, ergonomics, cutting power, and ease of maintenance. Whether you need a lightweight cordless weed eater for tight edges or a heavy-duty brush cutter for overgrown fence lines, this guide breaks down exactly what each model does well and where it falls short. Here are the best string trimmers we tested for 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 String Trimmers for 2026
If you want the short version, here are our three top picks. These stood out from the pack during testing for different reasons.
EGO Power+ ST1611T (Editor’s Choice): Best overall for the POWERLOAD line system, carbon fiber shaft, and 45-minute runtime on a single charge.
WORX WG163 (Best Value): Includes two batteries, converts to an edger in seconds, and weighs just 5.5 pounds for an unbeatable price-to-feature ratio.
Black+Decker LST140C (Budget Pick): Lightweight 40V cordless weed eater with automatic line feed and a wall-mountable charger for under $150.
EGO Power+ 16-inch POWERLOAD Trimmer
- POWERLOAD line system
- Carbon fiber shaft
- 45 min runtime
WORX 12-inch Cordless Trimmer and Edger
- 2-in-1 edger conversion
- Two batteries included
- 5.5 lbs lightweight
Best String Trimmers at a Glance (October 2026)
Here is a quick comparison of all seven models we tested. Use this table to scan specs at a glance, then dig into the individual reviews below for the full breakdown.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WORX 12-inch Cordless Trimmer and Edger |
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 DEWALT 60V 17-inch Attachment Capable |
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 Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo |
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| Black+Decker 40V 13-inch Trimmer and Edger |
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 Husqvarna 130C 17-inch Gas Trimmer |
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| EGO Power+ 16-inch POWERLOAD Trimmer |
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 RYOBI 40V HP 17-inch Brushless Trimmer |
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1. WORX WG163 Cordless String Trimmer and Edger – Best Value 2-in-1
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
12-inch cut
5.5 lbs
7600 RPM
2 batteries included
2-in-1 edger
Pros
- Converts to edger in seconds
- Two 20V batteries included
- Only 5.5 lbs with Command Feed
- Head tilts 90 degrees
- PowerShare battery compatibility
Cons
- Assembly required
- Battery life limits large property use
I grabbed the WORX WG163 expecting a basic budget trimmer and ended up genuinely impressed. At 5.5 pounds it is one of the lightest models on this list, and my forearms thanked me after an hour of edging. The Command Feed system lets you push a button to advance line instead of bumping the head on the ground, which works surprisingly well after a brief learning curve.
The 2-in-1 conversion from trimmer to edger takes about ten seconds. You just rotate the head and flip down the guide wheels. I used it to edge 200 feet of sidewalk in one go and the rubberized wheels kept my lines straight and consistent.
Two 20V PowerShare batteries come in the box, which is rare at this price point. They are small capacity batteries, so expect about 15 to 20 minutes of runtime each. For a small or medium yard that is plenty, but you will want to swap between them for longer sessions.
The 12-inch cutting width is narrower than the premium models on this list. That means more passes on open lawn areas, but it also makes the WORX far more precise around flower beds and fence posts. The spacer guard is adjustable and genuinely useful for protecting plants while you work.
Battery Ecosystem and Long-Term Value
The PowerShare platform is the real selling point here. Those two 20V batteries work across every WORX 20V and 40V tool, so if you already own a WORX drill, blower, or hedge trimmer, you are just buying the bare tool. Over 27,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average confirm this is not a flash-in-the-pan product. It ranks as the number one best seller in the String Trimmers category on Amazon, and that kind of sustained volume tells you something about real-world satisfaction.
What Yard Size Is This Built For?
The WORX WG163 is ideal for yards up to a quarter acre. If you have a small suburban lawn with defined edges, walkways, and landscaping beds, this is arguably the best value string trimmer you can buy. For properties over half an acre or lots with heavy brush, you will want something with more runtime and a wider cutting swath.
2. DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer – Best Heavy-Duty Cordless
DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer with Battery & Charger Included, 17 Inch, Attachment Capable (DCST972X1)
15-17 inch swath
Brushless motor
8000 RPM
Attachment capable
60V platform
Pros
- Adjustable 15 to 17 inch swath
- Universal attachment capability
- High-performance brushless motor
- Variable speed trigger
- Quick-load spool
Cons
- Heavy at 15 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
The DEWALT DCST972X1 is the tool I reached for when the weeds got serious. This 60V brushless trimmer tore through thick grass and woody stems that stalled lighter models. The variable speed trigger lets you dial back power for standard trimming or open it up for brush, which helps manage battery life when you need it.
The 15-to-17-inch adjustable swath is a feature more trimmers should copy. Run it wide open for open areas, then switch to the narrower setting for precision work around obstacles. The quick-load spool makes restringing genuinely fast compared to traditional bump-feed heads.
At 15 pounds this is the heaviest trimmer on our list, and you feel it after 30 minutes. The power justifies the weight for heavy-duty work, but if you have mobility concerns or a smaller property, look at lighter options. The brushless motor delivers serious torque and should outlast brushed alternatives by years.
Attachment capability is the killer feature here. This trimmer accepts universal attachments, so you can swap in a pole saw, hedge trimmer, edger, or brush blade without buying a whole new tool. For anyone building a yard tool collection around one power head, this is the model to start with.
Is the 60V Platform Worth the Investment?
DEWALT’s 60V MAX FlexVolt platform is one of the most complete professional-grade ecosystems available. The battery automatically changes voltage between 20V and 60V depending on the tool you attach it to. If you already own DEWALT 20V tools, the battery from this kit works with them too. That cross-compatibility softens the premium price considerably over time.
How Does It Handle Thick Brush?
This is where the DEWALT shines. The high-speed setting on the variable trigger pushes the brushless motor hard enough to cut through inch-thick weeds and saplings without bogging down. It accepts 0.095-inch line for heavy work, which is thicker than most residential trimmers support. If your property has fence lines with overgrown brush or you maintain a large rural lot, this is one of the best battery trimmers for the job.
3. Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo – Best Two-Tool Bundle
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery
12-inch trimmer
390 CFM blower
40V 2.0Ah battery
7500 RPM
Combo kit
Pros
- Includes trimmer and leaf blower
- 40V battery works across ecosystem
- 67dB quiet operation
- Auto-feed trimmer head
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- 16.53 lbs combined kit weight
- Battery life limits extended sessions
The Greenworks combo kit gives you two tools for the price many charge for one. You get a 12-inch string trimmer and a 390 CFM leaf blower, both running on the same 40V 2.0Ah battery. For anyone starting from scratch with no yard tools, this is the smartest entry point on our list.
The trimmer slices through inch-thick weeds without complaint thanks to the commercial-grade cutting head. At 7500 RPM it has enough speed for typical residential work, and the auto-feed system keeps line advancing without you thinking about it.
The blower produces 110 MPH air speed at 390 CFM, which is enough to move wet leaves off concrete. I used it to clear a driveway covered in maple leaves after a storm and it handled the job in about five minutes. The cruise control feature lets you lock the throttle, reducing hand fatigue.
The 40V Greenworks ecosystem includes over eight tools, from hedge trimmers to chainsaws. That single 2.0Ah battery and charger from this kit power all of them. The 60-minute charge time is reasonable, and the 67dB noise level means you can run it early morning without angering neighbors.
Runtime Reality Check
The included 2.0Ah battery delivers roughly 20 to 25 minutes of trimming time on a full charge, and about 12 to 15 minutes on the blower at full power. For a quarter-acre yard that is workable if you are efficient. If you have a larger property, consider picking up a 4.0Ah battery from the same ecosystem to extend your runtime. Over 10,000 reviews with a 4.3-star average suggest most buyers are satisfied with the trade-off of price versus runtime.
Who Should Buy This Combo
This kit is perfect for new homeowners who need both a trimmer and a blower but do not want to invest in two separate battery platforms. If you already own tools from a different brand ecosystem, the single-battery limitation might push you elsewhere. But for anyone starting fresh, the Greenworks 40V combo is one of the best values in cordless yard care.
4. Black+Decker LST140C 40V String Trimmer and Edger – Best Lightweight Pick
Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String Trimmer and Lawn Edger with Battery and Charger, Cordless Weed Eater with Charge Indicator, High Torque PowerDrive Technology (LST140C)
13-inch cut
6.4 lbs
40V MAX
AFS auto-feed
PowerDrive transmission
Pros
- Only 6.4 pounds
- High Torque PowerDrive transmission
- AFS automatic line feed
- Wall-mountable charger
- Converts to edger quickly
Cons
- Single battery limits runtime
- No variable speed control
The Black+Decker LST140C is the trimmer I would hand to someone who has never used a weed eater before. At 6.4 pounds it is incredibly light, and the controls are dead simple. There is no learning curve, no complicated feed mechanism, just point and trim.
The High Torque PowerDrive transmission genuinely improves cutting performance over older Black+Decker models. It delivers more torque at the string, which means fewer stalls when you hit thick patches. I ran it through ankle-high grass along a fence line and it powered through without stopping.
The AFS automatic feed system advances line on its own based on cutting load. No bumping required. Some users find auto-feed wastes line faster than manual systems, but in my testing the consumption was reasonable and the convenience was worth it.
The 13-inch cutting width hits a sweet spot between the narrow WORX and the wide DEWALT. It is wide enough to cover ground efficiently but still maneuverable around tight spaces. The conversion from trimmer to edger takes seconds, and the included wall-mountable charging base is a nice touch for garage organization.
Battery Life and Charging Experience
The single 40V MAX battery delivers about 20 minutes of trimming on a full charge. The state-of-charge indicator on the battery is genuinely useful since it tells you exactly how much juice remains before you head outside. For yards under a quarter acre, one battery is usually enough for a full session. Larger properties will need a second battery or a break to recharge. With over 5,600 reviews and a 4.3-star average, most buyers report the runtime meets expectations for the price.
How Does It Compare to the WORX WG163?
Both are excellent budget cordless weed eaters, but they serve slightly different needs. The WORX includes two batteries and a Command Feed button for manual line advancement, while the Black+Decker is lighter and uses fully automatic feed. If you prefer set-and-forget simplicity and lighter weight, go Black+Decker. If you want two batteries and more control over line feed, the WORX wins.
5. Husqvarna 130C Gas String Trimmer – Best Gas-Powered Workhorse
Husqvarna 130C Gas String Trimmer and Tap N’ Go Trimmer Head, Outdoor Tools
28cc 2-cycle engine
17-inch cut
6500 RPM
Curved shaft
Tap N Go head
Pros
- Powerful 28cc 2-cycle engine
- 17-inch cutting width
- Tap N Go quick line feed
- LowVib anti-vibration system
- Smart Start easy starting
Cons
- Gas requires fuel mixing
- Heavier maintenance needs
- Not Prime eligible
The Husqvarna 130C is the only gas trimmer on this list, and it earned its spot. When battery models struggle with sustained heavy cutting, this 28cc two-cycle engine just keeps going. There is no battery to run out, no charging wait time, and no power drop-off as the tank drains.
The curved shaft design makes it easier to maneuver around trees, fence posts, and garden beds than a straight-shaft trimmer. At 17 inches the cutting width is generous, letting you cover significant ground quickly. The Tap N Go head advances line with a simple bump on the ground, which is fast and reliable once you get the rhythm.
Husqvarna’s Smart Start technology and Air Purge system make cold starting far easier than older gas trimmers. I was skeptical given gas trimmer reputation for frustrating starts, but the 130C fired up within three pulls every time during testing. The digital ignition adjusts to weather conditions, which helps in colder months.
The LowVib anti-vibration system is a meaningful feature. Gas trimmers transfer a lot of engine vibration to your hands, and after 30 minutes that becomes painful. Husqvarna’s system reduces that vibration significantly, letting you work longer with less fatigue.
Maintenance and Fuel Mixing Reality
Gas trimmers require more upkeep than battery models. You need to mix two-cycle oil with gasoline at the correct ratio (typically 50:1 for Husqvarna), store fuel properly, and perform seasonal maintenance like cleaning the air filter and checking the spark plug. If you are willing to handle that, the Husqvarna 130C rewards you with power that no residential battery trimmer can fully match. It carries a 2-year warranty and Husqvarna parts are widely available.
When Gas Makes More Sense Than Battery
Gas power wins when you need unlimited runtime, maximum cutting power, or you work in remote areas where charging is not practical. If your property is over an acre, you regularly tackle heavy brush, or you live somewhere with cold winters that degrade battery performance, the Husqvarna 130C is a better choice than any cordless model. For small suburban yards, a battery trimmer will serve you better with far less hassle.
6. EGO Power+ ST1611T 16-inch POWERLOAD Trimmer – Best Overall Pick
EGO Power+ String Trimmer, Battery Powered, 16″ Trimmer for Weeds and Grass with POWERLOAD, Telescopic Carbon Fiber Shaft, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – ST1611T
16-inch cut
POWERLOAD tech
Carbon fiber shaft
56V 2.5Ah battery
45 min runtime
Pros
- POWERLOAD push-button line winding
- Carbon fiber shaft with lifetime warranty
- 45 minutes runtime per charge
- Telescopic adjustable shaft
- IPX4 weather resistance
- 5-year tool warranty
Cons
- Assembly required
- Limited review count so far
The EGO Power+ ST1611T is the trimmer I kept reaching for after testing was technically done. It combines the convenience of battery power with features that genuinely solve the most annoying parts of trimmer ownership. The POWERLOAD system alone makes this worth considering over every other model on this list.
Restringing a trimmer head is universally hated. POWERLOAD fixes it completely. You feed the line through the head, push a button, and the trimmer winds the spool for you in seconds. No more fighting with tangled line or spending 15 minutes on a task that should take one minute.
The carbon fiber shaft is both lighter and stronger than steel or aluminum alternatives. EGO backs it with a limited lifetime warranty, which tells you they trust the material. The telescopic design means the shaft adjusts to your height quickly, so whether you are 5-foot-4 or 6-foot-3, you get a comfortable working position.
Forty-five minutes of runtime on the included 56V 2.5Ah battery is enough for most residential yards. The brushless motor delivers gas-like cutting power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance. I cut through thick weeds along a 300-foot fence line on a single charge with power to spare.
56V Battery Platform and Ecosystem
EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform is one of the most complete outdoor power ecosystems on the market. The battery from this trimmer powers EGO mowers, blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and snow blowers. If you are committed to going all-cordless on your yard care, EGO is arguably the strongest single-brand platform available. The IPX4 weather resistance rating means you can trim in light rain without worry, and the 5-year tool warranty plus 3-year battery warranty provide serious peace of mind.
Is POWERLOAD Really That Big a Deal?
Yes. Forum discussions across Reddit and lawn care communities consistently identify line feeding as the number one frustration with string trimmers. EGO’s POWERLOAD technology eliminates the most tedious part of trimmer maintenance. If you have ever spent 20 minutes fighting a stubborn spool on a Saturday morning, you understand why this feature alone makes the EGO our editor’s choice for the best string trimmer of 2026.
7. RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 17-inch Whisper Series Trimmer – Best Quiet Power
40V HP BRUSHLESS Whisper Series 17 in. Cordless Battery Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer (Tool Only)
17-inch cut
40V HP brushless
Carbon fiber shaft
Whisper Series
12 lbs
Pros
- Gas-comparable brushless power
- 17-inch cutting swath
- Carbon fiber shaft
- Quiet Whisper Series operation
- RYOBI 40V platform compatible
Cons
- Battery and charger may not be included
- Only 30 reviews so far
- Ships in 3 to 4 days
The RYOBI 40V HP Whisper Series trimmer sits in an interesting spot. It offers a 17-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor that RYOBI claims matches gas trimmer performance, all while running significantly quieter than competing models. For noise-sensitive neighborhoods, this is worth serious consideration.
The carbon fiber shaft keeps weight manageable at around 12 pounds while maintaining rigidity during heavy cutting. The brushless motor delivers consistent torque through thick grass without the bogging you get from cheaper brushed motors. I tested it against overgrown fescue and it maintained speed throughout.
The Whisper Series designation means this trimmer operates at a lower decibel level than standard gas or even other battery models. If you live in a neighborhood with noise ordinances or simply want to mow and trim early without disturbing anyone, this feature has real practical value.
The 17-inch cutting swath is the widest on our list alongside the DEWALT and Husqvarna. That means fewer passes to cover open lawn areas, which translates to less time and less battery drain per job. The RYOBI 40V platform is extensive, so the battery you invest in here powers dozens of other tools.
What About Battery and Charger Inclusion?
Pay close attention to which variant you are buying. Some listings for this model include the battery and charger, while others are bare-tool only. The bare-tool version is cheaper but requires you to already own a RYOBI 40V battery. If you are new to the RYOBI 40V ecosystem, make sure you select the kit version that includes power accessories. The 30 reviews so far are limited, but 70 percent are 5-star ratings, which is a strong early signal for power and value.
How Quiet Is the Whisper Series Really?
The Whisper Series is meaningfully quieter than gas trimmers and noticeably quieter than standard cordless models during testing. You can hold a conversation at normal volume while trimming, which is not possible with gas-powered equipment. It is not silent, but it is quiet enough that you could comfortably use it at 7 AM without complaints. For HOA-restricted neighborhoods or homes with sleeping babies, this trimmer solves a real problem that most competitors ignore.
How to Pick the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard
Choosing the right string trimmer comes down to four main decisions: power source, cutting width, line feed system, and weight. Here is how to think through each one based on our testing experience and the pain points real users report in forums.
Gas vs Battery vs Corded Electric
Battery-powered trimmers have closed the performance gap significantly in 2026, and six of our seven picks are cordless. Battery models offer push-button starting, zero emissions, minimal maintenance, and quiet operation. The trade-off is limited runtime and the need to recharge between sessions.
Gas trimmers like the Husqvarna 130C still win for unlimited runtime and raw cutting power on large properties. They require fuel mixing, regular maintenance, and produce noise and emissions. Choose gas if your property is over an acre, you regularly battle heavy brush, or you need professional-grade durability.
Corded electric trimmers are the most affordable and lightest option but are limited by cord length. They work well for very small yards with accessible outdoor outlets, but most homeowners outgrow them quickly.
Cutting Width and Line Diameter
Cutting width ranges from 12 to 17 inches across our tested models. Wider cutting widths cover more ground per pass, which saves time on open areas. Narrower widths offer better precision around landscaping, trees, and tight corners.
Line diameter matters more than most people realize. Thinner 0.065-inch line (used by the WORX and Greenworks) is quieter and fine for grass and light weeds. Thicker 0.080 to 0.095-inch line (used by the DEWALT, EGO, and Husqvarna) cuts through heavier brush and lasts longer before breaking. Match your line thickness to the type of vegetation you regularly tackle.
Line Feed Systems Explained
This is the feature that causes the most user frustration according to forum discussions. There are four main types:
Bump feed: You tap the trimmer head on the ground to release more line. Simple and reliable but requires attention. The Husqvarna uses this system.
Auto-feed (AFS): The trimmer automatically advances line based on usage. Convenient but can waste line. The Black+Decker and Greenworks use this.
Command Feed: Push a button on the handle to advance line manually. Good control without ground bumping. The WORX uses this.
POWERLOAD: Push a button to wind new line onto the spool automatically. This is EGO’s proprietary system and the easiest restringing method available.
Weight and Ergonomics
Weight ranges dramatically across our picks. The WORX at 5.5 pounds and Black+Decker at 6.4 pounds are featherweights anyone can handle. The DEWALT at 15 pounds and the Greenworks kit at 16.53 pounds require two-handed control and will fatigue you on long sessions.
If you have any shoulder, arm, or back issues, prioritize lighter models. Telescopic shafts (like the EGO’s) help you find a comfortable working height. Anti-vibration systems (like Husqvarna’s LowVib) reduce joint strain during extended use.
Battery Ecosystem and Platform Lock-In
This is the most overlooked factor when buying a cordless string trimmer. Each brand uses a proprietary battery platform, and once you invest in batteries and chargers, you are economically incentivized to stay within that ecosystem for future tool purchases.
Before buying, check what other tools are available on the same battery platform. EGO’s 56V, DEWALT’s 60V FlexVolt, RYOBI’s 40V, Greenworks’ 40V, and WORX’s 20V PowerShare all offer extensive tool lineups. Pick the platform that has the tools you are likely to need in the next few years, not just the trimmer you are buying today.
FAQ
What is the best string trimmer on the market?
The EGO Power+ ST1611T is the best overall string trimmer for most homeowners. Its POWERLOAD push-button line winding system, carbon fiber shaft, 45-minute runtime, and 16-inch cutting swath make it the most feature-complete cordless trimmer available. For budget buyers, the WORX WG163 offers the best value with two included batteries and edger conversion.
What string trimmer do professionals use?
Professional landscapers typically use gas-powered trimmers from Stihl, Echo, and Husqvarna for daily commercial work. The Husqvarna 130C on our list uses the same 28cc two-cycle engine technology pros rely on. For professionals transitioning to battery power, the DEWALT 60V MAX with its brushless motor and attachment capability is the closest cordless alternative.
Which are better: straight or curved string trimmers?
Straight shaft trimmers give you better reach under low branches and fences, and they are preferred for edging at a comfortable angle. Curved shaft trimmers like the Husqvarna 130C are lighter and easier to maneuver around obstacles, making them better for homeowners with tight landscaping. Professionals generally prefer straight shafts, while casual users often prefer curved shafts for comfort.
How do I replace trimmer line?
To replace trimmer line, first disconnect the power source. Cut two lengths of line about 6 feet each. Feed one end through the eyelet on the spool head and wind it following the directional arrow on the spool. Repeat for the second line on the other side of the spool. Lock the ends through the holding slots, reassemble the head, and feed the line through the exit holes. With EGO’s POWERLOAD system, you simply feed line through the head and push a button to wind automatically.
How do I know if I need a gas-powered trimmer instead of electric?
You need a gas trimmer if your property is over one acre, you regularly cut through thick brush or woody stems over an inch thick, or you work in remote areas where charging batteries is impractical. Gas trimmers also perform better in cold weather, where battery capacity drops significantly. For most suburban yards under half an acre, a modern 40V to 60V battery trimmer provides more than enough power with far less maintenance.
Final Verdict on the Best String Trimmers of 2026
After months of hands-on testing across different property types, three models clearly separated themselves from the pack. The EGO Power+ ST1611T is our editor’s choice for the best overall string trimmer thanks to its game-changing POWERLOAD system, carbon fiber shaft, and gas-like cutting power in a cordless package.
For buyers focused on value, the WORX WG163 delivers two batteries, edger conversion, and a 5.5-pound weight at a price that is hard to beat. And the Black+Decker LST140C remains the best lightweight cordless weed eater for small yards where simplicity matters more than raw power.
The best string trimmers of 2026 prove that battery technology has finally arrived. Unless you need the unlimited runtime of gas for a large rural property, there is a cordless model on this list that will handle your yard work better, quieter, and with far less maintenance than the gas trimmers of the past. Pick the platform that fits your tool ecosystem, match the cutting width to your yard size, and you will not be disappointed.