Our top pick, the RYOBI 40V Expand-It Cordless Battery Edger, has a lightweight, cordless design with a wheeled head for precise cuts, and the unit accepts RYOBI expand-it attachments, making it a versatile addition to your shed. Here, the best edge trimmers for your yard. This battery-powered edger weighs less than 10 pounds, making it significantly lighter than many similar sized units, and its cutting depth extends to 6.5 inches. The package includes a 40-volt 4Ah lithium-ion battery and charger, and you also can use the tool with batteries from other RYOBI tools you may own. A 3-year warranty backs the edger, and a 5-year warranty covers the power head. One downside: The tool creates clean, straight lines in most applications but can get clogged in wet or dense dirt. The tool shaft is made from powder-coated steel, and its dual-sided handle gives you plenty of leverage as you work. Because this tool is so basic, you don’t have to worry about any complicated maintenance or parts breaking, and in case something does go wrong, it’s backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. In addition to selecting the cut depths, you also can change the cutting angle, from six positions ranging from 0 to 110 degrees, allowing for cleaner cuts in certain types of grass. A chain skirt serves as a debris guard during operation, protecting the operator while avoiding clogs. You also can take advantage of an attached tool holder on the handle to secure other equipment. While this edger is certainly more expensive than many handheld models, it offers more versatility and power, and it tackles large jobs with ease. This 2-in-1 tool has an adjustable shaft, allowing you to change its length to suit your stature, and an automatic feed system keeps the line at the perfect length—no bumping required. Its PowerDrive transmission helps prevent bogging down in heavy grass and weeds, and a lock stops the extension cord from accidentally disconnecting during use. Because it relies on a power cord for operation, you need to navigate around the cord as you work, but the upside is you never run out of battery power mid-job. While it is heavier than most (almost 14 pounds), this edger is designed with the user in mind. It has intuitive controls, including choke and purge, and when the machine is turned off, the stop switch automatically returns to the start position for easier starting. The manufacturer says its X-Torq engine design reduces exhaust emissions, and the ergonomic curved shaft’s guide wheel on the end helps you achieve precise results. The Husqvarna Lawn Edger is more expensive than other handheld models, but the added cost is worth it for heavy-duty applications. This tool has an adjustable shaft that allows you to tailor its height to a comfortable position, and its D-grip handle provides increased stability. A cord retainer stops the cord from disconnecting as you work, and a wear indicator on the blade lets you know when it needs replacing. The only downside of this well-priced edger is its cutting depth is fairly limited—other models can cut as deep as 3 inches, while this one maxes out at 1.5. The Ego Power+ Lawn Edger has a variable speed trigger and lock-off switch, and the guide wheel on the head features a depth height adjustment knob. The tool is even water-resistant, just in case it gets left out in inclement weather. Because this edger runs on battery power, it has a limited runtime. While the manufacturer doesn’t list how long the battery lasts, users report getting 20 to 30 minutes of operation per charge. Not only does this edger offer six height positions but it also can be used to create three different beveled cuts for a professional-looking result. The tool arrives fully assembled, and its self-sharpening blade helps minimize the required maintenance. A curb-hop wheel makes it easy to edge along raised areas such as sidewalks, and the walk-behind design makes quick work of even the largest jobs—without compromising quality. This gas edger’s high-impact nylon debris shield protects the operator, yet its open design prevents material from getting clogged and slowing down the blade, which cuts to a maximum 7.75 inches. You can adjust the placement of the tool’s front handle for a more comfortable grip. This tool is backed by a 5-year warranty.
Shaft Type
Similar to string trimmers, handheld edge trimmers feature either a straight or curved shaft. Straight-shaft units tend to be a bit larger and harder to handle, but they’re more durable and offer a longer reach. Curved shafts tend to be a bit easier to wield, as they’re more balanced. But they often break sooner, as the inner wiring bunches up in the curved interior.
Ease of Use
Several features can make an edge trimmer easier to use. For example, a three- or four-wheel design allows you to simply push the tool along the ground instead of manually holding it up. This reduces strain on your arm and often results in cleaner lines. If you opt for a handheld edger, make sure to consider its weight, as well as whether it offers a guide wheel for easier operation. Other useful features to consider include an adjustable shaft or handle you can tailor to your height, as well as an ergonomic design that makes it more comfortable to operate for extended periods.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. She has tested the BLACK+ DECKER Electric 2-in-1 String Grass Trimmer/Lawn Edger, and while researching edgers for this piece, she consulted with Chris Richert, Product Manager, Handheld Battery & Connectivity at the Husqvarna Group, for insights on what to look for when purchasing this lawn tool. While evaluating various edgers, she considered factors such as their power source, blade type, cutting depth, and guide features. She prioritized products that are easy to operate thanks to an ergonomic design and manageable weight, including handheld and wheeled models.
